7 Best Work Boots for Sweaty Feet – 2020 Buyer’s Guide
If your work involves being on your feet for the rest of the day, sweaty foot is a problem that you probably have to deal with at some point.
It can be uncomfortable to the point that it may affect your performance, and the smell can be hard to deal with for the people around you.
Let me help you...
To spare you from the hassle of finding what's best out there, I've come up with a compilation below to guide you with work boots that can help keep the sweat away.
Our 7 Top Rated Work Boots for Sweaty Feet Reviewed
Red Wing Heritage - Oil Tanned
Made in the USA, these moc-toe leather boots are designed and crafted for physically active work like military, construction, or warehouse logistics.
The sole of the boot is a combination of a white Traction Tred rubber outsole and a leather insole. The triple stitched quality and Goodyear welt construction of the sole gives it a toughness that is unique to this particular pair of boots.
The leather, an oil-tanned product made by the S.B. Foot Tanning Company, is water, stain, and sweat resistant. Red Wing has used this exceptionally durable leather to make countless work boots like this one throughout its 110+ year history.
What do buyers say?
People who bought these boots were very impressed with the way they fit snugly around the foot but leave enough room at the front to give the toes some breathing space.
This gives the dual benefit of well-fitted shoes that will keep you safe in hazardous work conditions along with a breathing room to prevent the accumulation of sweat.
However, many of them pointed out that the sizing of the shoes is a little different from the norm - it is probably wise to buy a pair that is one size smaller than what you normally buy to get that perfect fit.
PROS
CONS
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Durable
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Water and Stain Resistant
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Sweat Resistant
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Good Traction
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Spacious Toe Room
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Sizing are Inaccurate
KEEN Utility - Breathable
This sturdy work boot offers respite from those long summer workdays. Thanks to its breathable membrane that lets moisture out but prevents water from getting in.
That's right!
It is waterproof, and it will keep your feet cool and dry even during those exhausting double shifts! These boots are made in Portland, USA, using high-quality materials from around the world.
Aside from the breathable membrane, it is made with an anti-slip rubber sole that will ensure that you stay on your feet when it matters the most — equipped with steel-toe for additional protection for the toes. This is an essential material used to countermeasure e imminent hazards that come with the job.
Feedback from Buyers
Customers who chose this pair of boots were delighted with the durability they possess. Given that they resemble sports shoes, many buyers expected them to wear out in a few months but were pleasantly surprised when they were still as good as new even after a year.
A few buyers did complain that the shoelaces broke very soon though these are very easily replaceable at a low price.
PROS
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Breathable
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Waterproof
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Anti-Slip Rubber Sole
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Toe Protection
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Durable
CONS
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Shoelaces tend to Break
Thorogood Men's American Heritage - Electric Shock Resistant
Made from Tobacco Gladiator Oil-Tanned Leather, these soft toe boots are sturdier than most with a Goodyear welt constructed outsole and a rubber insole that provides support when you need it most.
They are also equipped with Removable Dual Density Ultimate Shock Absorption Insert on Poron 4000 Comfort Cushion to protect your feet and ankles while you do the heavy lifting.
What's more? These boots are resistant to electric shock of up to 18,000 volts under dry conditions!
The comfort provided by these boots has been the most highly appreciated feature among those who bought them. In hazardous working conditions that are physically draining, a little comfort goes a long way and can make your work smoother.
Did buyers love it?
Some buyers had a rough few days breaking the shoes in, but after they were thrilled by the comfort that they offered.
PROS
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Great Support
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Shock Absorbent
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Electric Shock Resistant
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Comfortable
CONS
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There's a Breaking-in Period
Timberland PRO Men's Expertise - Lightweight
These work boots are known for reducing foot fatigue with its roomy toe box and superior fit.
It is made from full-grain leather and upper enhanced waterproof leather that provides a tenfold increase in abrasion resistance over regular leather and claims to handle temperatures of up to 346 degrees.
The insole is designed to provide heel and arch support, and the shock diffusion plate has a contoured shape to support and stabilize the foot.
The midsole and outsole design provide a signature comfort level in any condition - walking, climbing, or even sitting around a campfire.
What did users say?
As expected, comfort was the main thing that got customers excited about this pair of boots. They also found the shoes to be of a lighter weight than usual for steel-tipped shoes, making it a perfect choice for those who might see themselves walking on rough terrains throughout the day.
A few customers found that these boots are larger than usual, meaning that you may have to order about a half a size smaller than what you usually wear.
PROS
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Roomy Toe Box
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Waterproof
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Abrasion-resistant
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Great Support
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Comfortable
CONS
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Large Sizing
Carhartt Men's Romeo Boots - Slip On
These stylish pull-on boots from Carhartt has a double purpose - as work boots during the day and as casual boots for a great after-hours look.
It is made from high-grade oil-tanned leather that will endure years of pressure and offer waterproof protection that will keep your feet dry and comfortable. The sole is handmade to give you the best anti-traction grip to keep you safe while lifting the heavy stuff.
Customer Reviews
Buyers of these boots loved the fact that it can be slipped on and slipped off with minimum fuss. It provides excellent comfort during long shifts and can be fashionable too!
The fact that they are waterproof is a bonus since a little water can ruin the comfort aspect of this footwear.
PROS
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Stylish
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Waterproof
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Keeps Feet Dry
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Comfortable
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Easy to Put-On
CONS
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Not Puncture-proof
Maelstrom LANDSHIP - Ideal for Outdoors
Designed specifically for law enforcement, security, industrial professionals, and outdoor enthusiasts, this rugged pair of boots offer round the clock comfort has a lightweight design and has dependable performance.
It incorporates state of the athletic art features that make it comfortable and fast. It is highly durable in the harshest conditions, made from polishable full-grain leather for utmost durability and comfort.
It's air mesh nylon pads can regulate temperature to prevent sweat from accumulating during long days.
The outsole is rugged, durable, made from slip and oil-resistant rubber that provides impressive traction.
Are buyers satisfied?
Customers loved the comfort that these boots provide, especially the fact that they do not have a break-in period. Just slip them on, and you're ready to go!
What makes this pair stand out? It is the fact that these boots are appropriately sized according to the international standards. It means that you do not have to buy a size too small or bigger for a better fit. The size you usually buy is the size that will fit your feet perfectly.
PROS
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Comfortable
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Lightweight
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Temperature Regulating
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Slip-resistant
CONS
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Not that Durable
Maelstrom Patrol - Shock Absorbing
Made for combat, this pair of tactical boots are made from polishable full-grain leather and nylon, making it sturdy and comfortable.
The outsole is rugged, durable, as well as slip and oil resistant. You can count on it to provide excellent traction during dangerous situations or encounters.
It is fitted with a dri-lex waterproof membrane that is designed to keep your feet dry during wet weather. A bonus for these combat boots is a shock-absorbing system that maximizes compression and rebound, thus increasing your speed and agility while reducing foot fatigue.
Did buyers like it?
A considerable number of customers appreciated the comfort that this footgear provides. They are super easy to slip on and off and have a velcro strap to ensure that they stay on even if the laces come undone.
Few purchasers complained about the size disparity that is common in work boots.
PROS
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Durable
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Comfortable
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Slip-resistant
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Keeps Feet Dry
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Easy to Wear
CONS
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Inaccurate Sizing
How to Choose the Right Boots for Feet with Hyperhidrosis
Breathability
This is the key to preventing your feet from getting sweaty. If your shoes can breathe, then the sweat can easily evaporate before building up and makes your feet stinky.
In most cases, porous human-made fibers that are breathable, like leather and canvas, will do the trick.
However, if your problem goes beyond the basics, then some boots are equipped with technological features that can handle it. Gore-Tex, Thermolite, Thinsulate, Primaloft, and Smartwool are some examples of technology that combat perspiration.
Comfort
Comfort plays a significant role in avoiding sweaty feet. The logic is simple - if your feet are uncomfortable, they will sweat.
There are features that you can look out for that make a pair of work boots comfortable to wear over long periods. Materials used for breathability can regulate the temperature of the boots both inside and out.
Air pockets boost the comfort level of the boots. Thick, flat soles that provide reinforcements around the toes, heels, and arches also add to the comfort of the boots.
And finally, it wouldn't hurt to add a few extra padding to help reduce friction between your feet and boots when you move around.
Safety and Protection
While comfort is important in preventing your feet from sweating too much, safety is all the more critical.
An added feature like steel-toe on your work boots offers protection against the glass, nails, and other sharp objects that you can encounter in your work environment.
These composite work boots provide an added layer of insulation in cold work environments. If you are unsure of the kinds of boots you need, send me a message so I could help you find the shoes you need based on the nature of your work.
Durability
This one may seem obvious, but there are many brands out there that are not as durable as they advertise.
Yes, steel-toed boots can break the bank, but if you find these to be too heavy for long working hours, then you can look for boots that have aluminum alloy. These boots weigh a little less than regular steel-toed boots but are as durable as those with steel-toe.
Full-grain leather is another feature that adds to the durability of your footwear. It should be thick, untreated, and should be tough enough to withstand high-pressure and of course, should retain its shape even after using it for an extended period.
Genuine rubber soles are also a plus factor for durability. It has to have an anti-slip traction ability so you can walk on slippery or greasy surfaces.
Fitting
In line with comfort, the perfect fit of each footgear is equally important in preventing your feet from sweating.
Work boots that are too big for you will put an extra strain on your feet, causing them to sweat more than the usual. Conversely, a work boot that is too small for your feet will not regulate airflow and breathability, causing your feet to sweat or, worse, can develop calluses and blister after a few hours of wearing it.
Weight
When you look up a shoe online, you may not think of it as heavy. But when you are wearing the boots throughout a grueling workday, that involves lots of walking and heavy lifting, then even the slightest additional weight can make all the difference in the world.
In short, a heavier work boot will make your feet work harder and in turn, cause them to sweat. Choosing a lightweight pair of work boots will go a long way in keeping your feet dry and comfortable.
Pricing
Of course, you do not want to spend a fortune on your shoes.
Kinds of shoes that are specially designed to withstand damage are a bit pricey than regular shoes. This is why it is a good idea to do as much research as you can before buying a pair of work boots.
The primary key is to find a balance between affordability and utility.
Cheap ones may not be good enough for you, and the most expensive ones will not only burn a hole in your pocket but can not give you the guarantee of quality.
Why Should You Own A Footwear for Sweating Feet?
Provide Coolness
It's hard enough to avoid sweaty feet in general, but summer brings with it a humidity that is as unforgiving as it is inescapable.
When the weather gets hot, your best bet is a work footgear that breathes like the ones we have already mentioned above.
Some of these boots are better than others. However, what's important is the boot's airflow and ventilation. If you can find a pair of work boots that can pull this off, then you're already on your way to cooler feet.
Better performance
This is a no-brainer.
If your feet are cool and comfortable, then you will be able to perform well at work 100%. Lightweight work boots that allow your feet to breathe are the best option for a hazardous working environment.
Just go through the list above, and I am certain that you will be able to find a pair that fits this requirement for you.
Safety
As we have already mentioned, safety is always the top priority.
A good pair of work boots will have features like slip-resistant soles to help you maintain your balance on slippery surfaces and steel toe caps that will protect your toes from getting crushed by massive objects.
Check your warranty before using your work boots. You can probably have it changed if it didn't meet its standards.
Dryness
When the weather is oppressively hot and humid, dryness is the key to staying comfortable.
Again, having a pair of footwear that will allow your feet to breathe is the best thing you can do to keep your feet dry for the entire day.
The best work boots for this will usually have special materials made from modern technologies like Gore-Tex, Thermolite, Thinsulate, Primaloft, or Smartwool.
What is Palmoplantar Hyperhidrosis?
Palmoplantar hyperhidrosis is a condition that is characterized by excessive release of sweat on the palms and soles of the feet. The gland responsible for the sweating is called the eccrine glands. These glands are mostly heavy on the palms and soles of the feet for those with hyperhidrosis.
What causes it?
A huge factor is physically and emotionally stressed. Genetics also plays a significant role in this type of condition. In studies, it showed that 30% of these cases are related to family history.
Treatment Options
1. Aluminum Chloride Hexahydrate
When applied topically, aluminum chloride can block the pores that cause sweating and can weaken the secretory cells in the eccrine glands.
NOTE: There are cases where some users have a sensitivity to this agent, especially to cuts or wounds that are open. So please do not use it if you have broken or cuts on your skin.
How to Apply?
Regularly apply on clean, dry skin every night until sweating is relieved, then follow-up with an irregular application for maintenance.
NOTE: In the morning after applying the medication overnight, remove any residue by washing with soap and clean water. Don't forget to use baking soda after cleansing to help reduce skin irritation.
2. Systemic Anticholinergic Drugs
Systemic anticholinergic drugs were used previously because of acetylcholine. It acts as the periglandular neurotransmitter within the nerves of the eccrine glands.
It may help in alleviating the symptoms, but it was found that it is impractical due to the need for long-term therapy and has many side-effects.
3. Botulinum Toxin Type A Injection
Botulinum toxin type A is widely known as Botox. It's safe and effective for the treatment of hyperhidrosis. The toxin acts by inhibiting the release of acetylcholine at the neuromuscular junction. Due to this, the sweat glands weaken.
4. Iontophoresis
This process involves the passing of direct electrical current on the skin. This is the most affordable way to treat hyperhidrosis, plus it has only minor side effects.
5. Surgery
Sympathectomy procedure is your last option if all other treatment fails. Not recommended all the time due to an incident of complications, like the recurrence of hyperhidrosis, and sweating on areas that were not affected
Reasons Why You Have Sweaty Feet
1. Work Shoes are Not Breathable
Everybody's feet tend to sweat through the day. If you are wearing work shoes that do not have any ventilation, the sweat will accumulate on your feet because it has nowhere to go.
It then mixes with anaerobic bacteria that causes the foul smell when you take off your shoes. The work boots in this article are designed to prevent this from happening by incorporating insole materials, both natural and synthetic, that allows your feet to breathe.
2. Socks Made From Chemical Fibers
There are good socks out in the market that can help absorb the sweat from your feet.
However, synthetic materials like nylon do not do this very effectively. They either cause the sweat to accumulate on your feet, or they make it pass straight through to the inner walls of your boots.
Either way, the bacteria can build up, and the disgusting smell will spread out. To prevent this from happening, avoid these kinds of socks if you want to keep your feet clean and dry throughout the day.
3. Active Sweat Glands
As we have already said, everyone's feet tend to sweat. This is due to sweat glands that are present on the feet and work to keep the feet cool during strenuous physical activity.
However, some people have sweat glands that are more active than average, and this makes the problem much worse.
Excessive sweating is known as hyperhidrosis. This condition affects around 3% of the adult population, and it affects the feet, palms, underarms, and other parts of the body.
In addition to treatment, a good pair of work boots can help alleviate the situation.
4. Poor Hygiene
Regardless of the number of steps you take to prevent foot sweat, good hygiene is the most effective solution.
When you fail to clean your feet regularly, dirt can quickly accumulate and can add to the sweating of the feet. Once infected with bacteria, it will give off a very foul odor.
So even the best work boots in the world will be useless to you unless you keep your feet clean.
5. Poor Diet
This may not seem obvious, but your diet also determines how you smell when you sweat.
Studies have shown that a bad diet, like ones consisting mainly of junk food, causes an increase in the number of toxins in your bloodstream.
These toxins find their way into your sweat, contributing to the odor that you are trying to get rid of. A healthy diet is as important as good hygiene to avoid smelly feet.
6. Medical Condition
If you have tried all of the above and are still experiencing excessive sweating of the feet, then there might be an underlying medical condition that needs attention.
Kidney or liver problems have been known to cause body odor, so it is a good idea to visit a doctor and get a proper diagnosis as a first step in dealing with the problem.
Ways to Avoid It
1. Go for Desert Boots
If you are sure that your feet (or rather your boots) won't soak in water at your workplace, then you should consider buying a pair of work boots designed for use in the desert.
Desert boots are generally more breathable and lightweight because they are not waterproof - waterproof coating does add to the weight of a work boot.
2. Wear Absorbent Socks
If switching to a lightweight desert boot does not help, then you might want to try wearing a pair of absorbent socks.
You do get thinner socks that are absorbent for hotter climates, and they help by wicking sweat away from your feet, thus preventing athlete's foot and the foul smell that comes with it.
You may end up with wet socks at the end of each day, but they will keep your feet cool and dry, and most importantly, odor-free.
3. Use Cooling Foot Powder
For mild to moderate foot sweat, foot cooling powders can work wonders.
Several formulas on the market have great capabilities on getting rid of foot sweat, and anyone of them would be one hundred percent effective for you. You need to apply some powder directly on your feet before putting on your socks. After that, put some to the inside of your work boots before putting them on. The powder will help by absorbing extra moisture.
NOTE: Remember to wipe off the accumulated residue that will develop on your feet and particularly between your toes at the end of the day.
4. Try an Antiperspirant
Spray-on powders are also available and have the same function as the foot powder mentioned above.
These are a little easier to use. It is simple as holding the can around six inches away from your foot and spraying an even coat before putting on your socks.
However, these sprays are not as effective as regular foot powders. Other options are a stick, gel, and roll on antiperspirants, but these are even less effective than spray-ons.
5. Let Your Feet Breathe
We've said it loads of times before, and we'll repeat it - letting your feet breathe is the best thing you can do to tackle foot sweat.
If you can find the time, maybe during your lunch break, you could take off your shoes and socks and let your feet breathe before you get back to work. Doing this two to three times a day can go a long way in keeping your feet clean, dry, and odor-free.
Tips For Those Working During Hot Weather
1. Hydrate Yourself
It may seem super, but it bears mentioning because we do tend to get caught up in our work and forget about the important little things.
If you work at a physically strenuous job, and particularly during the summer months, always remember to stay hydrated. Drink a lot of water at regular intervals to maintain your body's optimum moisture level.
2. Plan Your Day and Take Enough Rest
Most of us prefer to finish all our work for the day before taking a rest. Well, that is fine for most of the year, but the summer does not take kindly to such a routine.
For those who are on the fieldwork or outdoors, take time to do regular rests on a shaded spot to make your body temperature low and prevent you from fainting or, worse, heat strokes.
3. Avoid Direct Sunlight
One the same lines as above, try to avoid being in direct sunlight as much as you possibly can. The summer sun causes your body temperature to rise quickly, putting you at the risk of going into shock or fainting.
4. Use Proper Work Boots
Being mobile is critical, and with that said, your feet are important to you too.
The footwear that you wear at work plays a huge role in regulating the temperature of your entire body. That is why it is so vital for you to carefully choose the best pair of work boots that you can find.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use these boots during the winter?
There are special work boots during the winter months. These boots are waterproof and are equipped with insulation to keep the feet warm. So boots that are designed for the summer, mainly desert boots, will not be suitable in cold weather since they are not insulated.
What is the best brand for narrow feet?
The brands we have mentioned above are perfect for all kinds of feet, but if those particular shoes don't fit you, then you can look at companies like Timberland, Maelstrom, KEEN, Ariat, and Sketchers.
What is the best brand for wide feet?
Again, the brands mentioned in this article are perfect for feet of any shape and size. But some other brands that you might want to look at would be Wolverine, Sketchers, and Rocky.
Can flat-footed workers wear these?
Some brands like Timberland offer work boots that are designed specifically for flat-footed people. This footwear is usually equipped with extra support on the arch and heels of the foot to address the problem of fallen arches and maintain maximum comfort.
Can it cause sore feet?
Initially, most work boots have a "breaking in" period. It's the time when the shoe needs to mold itself to the shape of your foot and may last several days. Using work boots that have not been broken in for a full day's shift can be a very unpleasant experience. However, once they are broken in, a good pair of boots like the ones we have listed above are super comfortable throughout the day.
Conclusion
With all the brands available in the market, we are confident that you will find the right pair out there. If you would like to purchase one, the list of work boots that we have listed above is a perfect place to begin your search.
Hopefully, you have gained some insight, and by now, you should be able to choose something that fits your needs. Thank you for taking the time to read through these reviews, and we wish you all the luck.