10 Best Farm Work Boots in 2022- Complete Buyers Guide and Reviews

Apparently, thousands of agriculture workers are injured every year due to farm related accidents. Even if you survive a farming accident, you could end up permanently disabled. So what should you do about it if you’re a farmer? It’s simple, prevent the accident before it happens by wearing the best farm boots. 

For safety purposes, you need specially designed farm boots that can handle the pressure of working on slippery surfaces, puddles, muck and muddy terrain.

Quick Answer : Best Farm Work Boots

In this guide, we are going to save you long hours of research by telling you things to look out for when picking farm work boots. Better yet, we’re going to review some of the best farm work boots you can get your hands on. 

In this article, we’re going to review the best work boots for Farming

Rocky Men’s Long Range Western Boot (Best overall)

What We Like	What We Don’t Like
They’re waterproof	High maintenance
They’re comfortable	No steel
10 layer outsole
Breathable shoes
Anti-slip outer sole

These are one of the best selling ranch boots for a reason; they’re made of high-quality leather uppers that makes them durable, flexible and waterproof. Likewise, they’re lined with a thin waterproof membrane that acts as a barrier between the outer leather material and the inner lining.

The most outstanding feature of the Rocky Men’s Long Range Western Boot is its 10 layer outsole. The outsole is designed to withstand pressure and protect your feet from punctures that can cause injury. 

Besides that, the outsole has grooves to increase traction on slippery surfaces; this safeguards you from slip and fall injuries. The Goodyear welt construction is also used to reinforce the outsole to the upper part of the farm boot; making them stable and durable.

To prevent stinky feet, these boots have a Dri-Lex Eco lining which wicks out any perspiration; this feature rules out the risk of having soggy feet which cultivate odor causing bacteria.

Not to mention, they have a removable dual-density footbed that cushions your feet; reducing the strain and pain of a day’s hard work. 

The downside of these ranch boots is that they need proper maintenance to retain their waterproof properties and durability.

Muck Chore Classic Rubber Work Boot (Best hazard protection)

What We Like	What We Don’t Like
They’re waterproof	The sole wears gradually
Feature a metatarsal guard
Steel toe boots
Breathable boots
Easy to clean

For starters, these muck boots are made with top quality rubber and neoprene which are insulators; this means they retain heat to keep your feet warm during cold weather. 

Besides that, the 5mm neoprene improves comfort and durability. Most importantly, the rubber and neoprene combination make the boots 100% waterproof, and easy to clean; just rinse them off and they’re good to go.

What else? It has a breathable air mesh lining that controls moisture in the boots; they wick out perspiration and humidity. Furthermore, the cell-like membrane allows air inside the boots to keep the feet dry and cool when the temperatures are high.

But that’s not all; these boots have great safety features like the metatarsal guard, steel toe and lug patterns; earning them an ASTM approval. The metatarsal guard protects the feet from the impact and compression of falling objects. Similarly, the steel toe protects your toes from heavy impact.

Moreover, the boots have a removable cushion that reduces foot fatigue when working. The boots offer great arch support to minimize the chances of getting plantar fasciitis.

The drawback of these pair of boots is that the soles wear out with time.

Ariat Canyon Boots (Best women’s farm boots)

What We Like	What We Don’t Like
They’re versatile	The sole wears off quickly
They’re comfortable
Shock protection system
They’re flexible
Enough toe space

How about a pair of high quality boots for women? This women’s boot is designed with a Keltie accent at the front panel; beating the monotony of plain farm boots. They’re designed with pure leather, which makes them durable, flexible and waterproof.

Remarkably, these boots offer you maximum comfort. The 4LR technology gives you comfort and stability while you clean the barn, carry hay or complete any other strenuous farm labour. Its small heel gives you arch support and improves posture while working.

The soles are designed with lug patterns for superior traction; suitable for working in rugged trains and slippery surfaces. The traditional lace gives them a great fit and provides sufficient ankle support, which helps to reduce the chances of ankle sprains.

Additionally, they have thick soles that prevent sharp objects from piercing through and causing trauma to the foot.

The round toe design gives a lot of room to the toe area; but some people find it uncomfortable.

Georgia Boot Men’s Muddog (Best waterproof)

What We Like	What We Don’t Like
They’re waterproof	It can be too tight for some people
Extremely comfortable insole
ASTM F2413 protective toe classification
Electrical hazard protection
Thick outsole

For those torn between choosing rubber or leather farm boots; the Georgia Boot Men’s Muddog is a hybrid boot made of 50% leather and 50% rubber. The lower part of the boot is made of rubber to keep out water and the boot’s body is made of leather to make it flexible.

Since the boots have a steel safety toe, they’re ASTM certified to protect your toes from falling objects with an impact of up to 75lbs. Not to mention, they also protect your feet from electrical hazards. Perhaps its most impressive feature is the waterproofing system that is combined with a mesh breathable lining that wicks off moisture from the boots.

The boot’s outsole is made of polyurethane to improve flexibility and resistance against abrasion, slippery surfaces, chemicals and oil. It also cushions the foot to prevent discomfort.

The only weakness these boots have is that they can be too tight against the foot causing blisters. 

Ever Boots Moc Toe (Best low budget)

What We Like	What We Don’t Like
Steel toe ASTM certified	They have a narrow fit
Electrical hazard protection
Slip resistant treads
They’re comfortable
Low budget option

If you don’t want to break the bank to get a pair of decent work boots, consider these Ever Boots Moc Toe made of pure leather material. Quite impressive, they’re ASTM approved because of their steel safety toe guard; so you don’t have to worry about heavy objects falling on your toe. 

Another cool thing is the cushioned insoles are designed to improve comfort. The EVA midsole absorbs shock when hit by heavy objects, leaving the feet unharmed. Also, the steel shank improves posture and provides arch support. 

If you’re worried about durability, these boots are made with Goodyear welt construction; the strip holds together the midsole and the upper part. Furthermore, with proper care, they will probably last you up to 3 years without showing any signs of wear and tear. 

The flip side is, it has a narrow fitting which might rub against the skin and cause toe bunions and blisters. 

KEEN Utility Pittsburgh Work Boot (Best traction boots)

What We Like	What We Don’t Like
It reduces foot odor	They could be expensive for some people
They’re lightweight and comfortable
They’re very durable
Steel toe protection
High traction design

The KEEN Utility Pittsburgh Work Boot is designed for walking on any terrain. How does it achieve this? These pair of boots are made with lug patterns and a shank plate that adds stability. What’s more, they’re lightweight; so you won’t feel fatigued doing intense activities on your farm. 

Thanks to the Nubuck leather material used, the boots are durable. Also, they have a thin waterproof membrane that acts as a cell; it seals out water keeping the feet dry. The waterproof membrane also doubles up as a moisture-wicking lining; it releases moisture from the boot and lets in air. 

For protection against hazards, the toe area is made of steel; this protects the toes from impact when heavy objects fall. Similarly, you can walk on slippery surfaces without taking a tumble.

Here is the cool thing; the manufacturers have used a probiotic base technology that breaks down the odor in sweat; that means, your boots smell fresh even at the end of a long day.

Unfortunately, these boots could be expensive for some people.

Thorogood American Heritage Work Boots (Best premium farm boots)

What We Like	What We Don’t Like
They’re stylish	Not ideal for snow
Removable footbed design
Slip-resistant soles
They’re extremely durable
Fiberglass shank construction

If you want farm work boots that are close to perfection, you should consider Thorogood American Heritage work boots. To begin with, they’re made of high-grade single panel leather and reinforced with strong stitches, giving them a classy timeless appearance. Not to mention, they’re versatile to be worn for farming or casual purposes. 

If you’re concerned about protecting your feet from hazards, these boots are ASTM certified. The steel toe prevents compression while the Maxwear wedge sole with deep lugs prevents slip and fall accidents. Additionally, they prevent electrocution because of their non-conductive rubber outsole. 

The boots have a dual-density comfort system, a removable ultimate shock absorption footbed and a paron cushion insole. It gets better; the dual-density system uses the same permeable cells that provide comfort to absorb shock and resist moisture.

The oiled leather and TEX membrane prevent fluids from seeping into the boots. Like that’s not enough, the Goodyear welt construction provides a moisture seal between the upper and midsole; to keep water from seeping into the boots from the sole gaps.

Moreover, its fibreglass shank construction helps maintain the shape of the boot even if you wear the boots every single day. 

However, we don’t think these boots would be ideal for snow or extremely cold weather.

Carhartt CMF6371 Men’s Boots (Best comfort farm boots)

What We Like	What We Don’t Like
Waterproof boots	Cement sole construction is not durable
Breathable inner membrane
Electric hazard protection
Impact and compression protection
They’re very comfortable

These quality footwear are made with polyurethane and foam cushion to provide comfortable foot support that helps to reduce foot fatigue and pain. Besides that, they have an EVA midsole with PU strobel padding that absorbs shock and gives extra comfort.

In addition to that, they have a composite toe that shields the toe from compression; in case a farm tool falls on your feet. Thanks to the grooved rubber sole, these pair of boots are also slip resistant. 

But what makes these boots special is that they have one of the highest ASTM certifications to protect against electrical shock. To be specific, they can withstand electric circuits of up to 18,000 volts.

Beyond that, these boots are waterproof with a breathable membrane that works like a permeable cell; it blocks water from coming in but allows moisture and humidity to wick out and improve air circulation.

Unfortunately, the cement glued sole construction is not durable. It could also allow water to seep through the gaps in between the midsole and upper part.

Timberland PRO Men’s Hyperion (Best arch support)

What We Like	What We Don’t Like
They’re lightweight and flexible	Ankle cushion wears out gradually
Breathable moisture wicking lining
Anti-fatigue technology
Steel toe protection
Removable insole

If you like hiking boots that won’t drag your feet, consider Timberland Pro Men’s Hyperion work boots. Surprisingly, the boots weigh less than 2 pounds and are designed with a cushioned insole to reduce fatigue.  If that doesn’t convince you yet, the boots are reinforced with a steel toe to prevent farm related injuries. 

The material is 100 percent leather that comes with an internal moisture wicking lining to prevent foot odor. It’s also designed with a waterproof membrane that helps to tread through wet surfaces. Not to forget, the boots are arched; to improve posture and prevent plantar fasciitis.

Our only concern is that the cushion stitching around the ankles tends to wear off gradually. Then again, they wouldn’t be comfortable around the ankles without the extra cushion.

Irish Setter Men’s Work Boot (Best Versatile for men)

What We Like	What We Don’t Like
They’re very durable	They need to be conditioned
Electrical hazard protection
Heat resistant rubber outsole
They’re comfortable
Mid range budget boots

These boots are made from full grain leather upper; if you’re familiar with the varieties, then you know full-grain is the highest quality and most durable type of leather. We’re not kidding; these boots will probably last over 5 years without showing any signs of wear and tear. 

Just when you think it couldn’t get any better, these leather boots can withstand temperatures of up to 475 Fahrenheit degrees. They’re also fitted with non-woven nylon to keep your feet warm and comfortable. Similarly, the soles are made out of rubber that helps to distribute pressure and protect against electrical hazards on your farm. 

It turns out, its biggest strength is also a weakness; you need to condition the leather occasionally to prevent it from cracking.

Benefits of Farm Boots

Provide long-lasting comfort and reduce foot fatigue

Whether you’re out in the fields tending to plants or in the barn cleaning and looking after animals, comfortable boots will ease the strain and pain that is caused by standing for long hours.

Farm boots are constructed with technologies that enhance comfort and flexibility. They have a removable footbed made of polyurethane; a gel-like substance that cushions the foot and distributes weight. Then again, the EVA midsoles in many farm boots absorb shock and cushion the feet.

Also, some of the boots are lightweight to reduce foot fatigue and have enough room to prevent the feet from rubbing against the boot.

Read our guide on best work boots for landscaping

Protection from Impact and Compression

Composite toe, steel toe, internal and external metatarsal guards are some of the protective features installed in farming boots to safeguard your feet from being crushed into lean steaks.

As unbelievable as it may seem, you probably won’t feel a pinch if a horse or a cow stepped on your toes while you’re wearing steel or composite toe farm boots. This is because they shield the toes from impact and compression.

Farm boots with metatarsal guards also offer maximum protection against heavy impact from the side and above;  they work by absorbing and distributing impact that could injure your feet bones.

Prevents slip and fall injuries 

It’s almost impossible to avoid tripping hazards while farming; since it usually involves working with slippery, wet and surfaces. However, most farm boots are made with rubber and tread with anti-slip properties.

Most farm boots have superior traction design to improve grip. Also, steel shanks increase stability and reduce the chances of falling and getting injured.

Prevent moisture buildup and foot odor

Great farm boots are made with an ultra-thin membrane between the upper material and the inner lining. This membrane transfers moisture out of the boots through the pores and lets in the air to reduce perspiration.

In addition to that, the boots have a removable footbed that absorbs excess moisture and keeps the feet dry. Moreover, they are antimicrobial treated; so you don’t have to worry about foot odors.

Keeps water out

Most farm boots are made with waterproof material like oiled full-grain leather, natural rubber or neoprene. Similarly, they have a thin waterproof membrane that prevents water leakage from rain, snow and dew from compromising the boots. 

Protects the feet from extreme weather conditions

Most farm work boots are made from top-quality leather material that is heat resistant; this would be crucial during summer when the temperatures are high. Besides that, most work boots have a membrane that circulates air and keeps your feet cool while farming. 

What’s more, most farm boots insulate heat during winter to keep your feet warm and prevent frostbite; this is possible because they have a thermoform midsole that retains heat. Then again materials like neoprene and rubber are naturally good conductors of heat.

Protects you from venomous critters

While working in the fields, it’s possible to accidentally cross paths with poisonous animals and insects like snakes, spiders and even small critters that might bite your foot and in turn, give you an infection. However, some farm boots are formulated with thick materials and high shafts that can barricade poisonous bites and stings.

Protection from chemicals

Pesticides, herbicides, fertilizers and soil conditioners are some of the products used on farms. The problem is, most of those products contain toxic chemicals that could be harmful to your health. The good thing is most farm boots are made with thick materials that prevent those harsh chemicals from getting into your skin. 

Protection from penetration

If you’re using normal shoes, it’s easy for potential hazards such as sharp rakes, broken pieces of steel and even nails to penetrate your outsole and cause injury to your feet. However, most farm boots are made with thick rubber outsoles and puncture plates that are almost impenetrable.

Types of Farm Boots

Mud boots

Most mud boots are made of rubber or neoprene which makes them waterproof. The most impressive thing is, they will save you the headache that comes with cleaning muddy shoes; just run them through water and you’re good to go.

Beyond that, most are lined with breathable wicks that allow air circulation and ward off perspiration and humidity. Also, they have shanks that provide grip and arch support.

Cowboy boots

These are traditional western-style farm boots made of oiled leather and TEX membrane; making them waterproof and breathable. They are also versatile; you can use them to clean the barn, drive a tractor and ride horses. 

Furthermore, they have high shafts that provide ankle support. Some also have safety features like steel toes, composite toes and met guards. Their outsoles are made of deep lug patterns and rubber for traction. Not to forget, they have shanks that improve posture.

know more about cowboy work boots

Hiking boots

Hiking farm boots are designed for walking long hours on rugged terrains. To improve efficiency, the manufacturers designed the outsoles with grooved lugs for traction and stability on slippery surfaces. They’re light to reduce foot fatigue while walking or working. Besides that, hiking boots are great for driving tractors because they’re flexible. 

Things to Consider When Choosing Farm Boots

Material

Leather

Leather is the most used material when it comes to boot making. This is because it’s durable, pristine, insulative and can be treated to become waterproof. If you want the strongest and most durable type of leather, consider top grain or full grain leather material; they last longer than bonded or synthetic leather. 

Comfortable insoles

Choosing farm boots made of rubber material is another great alternative for leather. Rubber is durable and has great performance. It can be worn through all seasons, making it a versatile material. Rubber work boots are amazing if you’re working in mud and muck because they are easier to clean than leather. 

Rubber is also flexible and a good insulator of heat making them great for the winter snow. However, rubber boots are not as durable as leather.

Outer sole construction

If you’re looking for something more light, and breathable compared to leather; nylon might be for you. Nylon is soft and flexible. It’s also waterproof and at the same time, it keeps your feet cool. If you’re looking for summer work boots, farm boots made of nylon material would be a good choice. 

Nevertheless, don’t expect nylon to offer better protection than leather.

Comfort

The best quality boots will make it possible to stand for hours without feeling fatigued. Furthermore, comfortable shoes can prevent back pains, blistering and plantar fasciitis. 

Before choosing farm boots, it’s important to assess the duties you perform on the farm; so you can know the type of foot padding you need. For instance, if your work involves lifting heavy objects; you should invest in boots with extra cushion material. But if you don’t do a lot of heavy lifting, you will be okay with light padded cushions in your boots. 

How does it work? Most midsoles are made of Ethylene Vinyl Acetate( EVA); the material helps to absorb shock and shield your feet.

However, just because a boot is heavy, it doesn’t mean it offers the best performance. To reduce foot fatigue and discomfort, try choosing boots that are light and easy on the feet; hiker style boots have proven to be light on feet.

Not to forget, arch support is also crucial to reduce fatigue and prevent plantar fasciitis. However, if you have flat feet, consider getting boots with padding which is sunk in the heel to distribute weight.

Protection

Needless to say, when choosing work boots, you should ensure that they’re ASTM approved; this shows that they have been tested and found effective to prevent hazards. Besides that, if you’re working using heavy equipment on the farm, we recommend you choose farm boots that are reinforced with steel toe; they could even come in handy if a horse or bull steps on your toe.  

On the other hand, if you have a simple farm with no heavy equipment, it would make sense to choose farm boots designed with a composite toe made from non-metal material like fiberglass or Kevlar. 

Of course, you should also consider farm work boots constructed with met guards so you don’t have to deal with a broken foot if something falls on you. 

Another thing; check if they’re slip-resistant and have thick plated soles to prevent sharp objects from piercing through the shoe and causing injury.

Read about best roofing boots

Waterproof

Investing in waterproof farm boots will keep your feet healthy and free from odour. Work boots made of waterproof material such as oiled leather, rubber and nylon are effective in preventing water from seeping through the boots. Likewise, long shafts in boots are very efficient in keeping water out.

In addition to that, consider farm work boots that have a triple lining and a TEX membrane that keeps water from seeping through the boots.

The construction

When buying farm boots pay attention to the smallest details. For instance, something as minor as stitching can make a huge difference on performance and durability. 

Since you don’t want your farm work boots to wear out after a few months, consider choosing brands that use the Goodyear welt stitching technology. How does it work?  The outsole is stitched to the upper part of the boot using a welt and canvas rib. This means the outer sole is unlikely to fall off in case you walk off on wet cement.

Style

Who said farm boots have to be boring? Some of the best farm boots are designed to be worn for work and casual purposes. Besides that, some manufacturers offer buyers the option to choose different colors and styles based on their preference. 

Common Q&A

Conclusion

If we had to choose the best farm boots that ticked all the right boxes, the Rocky Men’s Long Range Western Boot would make the cut. Nonetheless, all the boots we’ve reviewed are top quality when it comes to keeping you safe and preventing farm related accidents. 

To get yourself a pair, just click the link.