10 Best Lineman Boots in 2022: Because Safety Is A Top Priority
With line work being the 10th most dangerous profession in the US, you can never be too sure about your safety. On top of other protective gear, you need quality lineman boots to protect your feet throughout.
Here is a list of the top 10 best lineman boots.
- Thorogood American Heritage Men’s Work Boots.
- Chippewa Men’s 9″ Logger Boot.
- Ariat Men’s Powerline Work Boot.
- Kenetrek Lineman Extreme Work Boot.
- Carolina Linesman Boots.
- Carolina Linesman 10 Inch Cork Harness.
- Wesco Highliner 10″ Work Boot.
- Danner Men’s Logger Work Boot.
- Carhartt Men’s Composite Toe Boot.
- Ariat Men’s Linesman Ridge Work Boot.
With an array of products in the market, choosing the right boot becomes a hassle. But I did all the “dirty work” for you and enlisted the best products in the market.
The best lineman boots are the Thorogood American Heritage Men’s Work Boots. It is comfortable, tough, durable, and fitted with the best safety features to protect your feet. Moreover, it is relatively affordable and can withstand up to 18,000 volts
10 Best Lineman Boots
Thorogood American Heritage Men’s Work Boots
| Pros: | Cons: |
| Beautiful and appealing. | Short shaft. |
| Excellent grip and traction. |
Ask your colleague about these boots, and they’ve probably heard of them. Thorogood promises to deliver reliable service through their American Heritage Work Boots. But can we take their word for it? Let’s dive deeper into the review.
Who Is It For?
These boots are unique and quite stylish. They are not limited to workers in the power and construction industries but can also be worn on most casual occasions. Completes the weekend outfit.
Features and Specs
With their EH rating, these boots can withstand up to 18,000 volts of power. They are made of full-grain leather for maximum protection against foreign intrusion.
I love the comfort levels of these boots. You can wear them for hours, walk miles, climb ladders and poles and still feel the same at the end of the day. They have cushioned footbeds and shock-absorbing insoles. They feature an 8” fibreglass shank that gives support to the ankles. Their Goodyear welt construction allows you to re-sole the boots.
Regarding protection, the boots have a steel toe cap that can withstand impacts of up to 75 pounds. Its polyurethane outsoles hold good traction while walking through uneven terrain or climbing ladders.
Why Should You Buy It?
Three features are the highlight of this boot; comfort, support and protection. These are features most important to a line worker. You can work the whole day confidently, knowing that your feet are fully protected and comfortable simultaneously.
Shortcomings
Even the best lineman boots fall short in some areas. For this boot, that would be the shaft. It doesn’t run too long, thus leaving parts of your upper feet unprotected.
Chippewa Men’s 9″ Logger Boot
| Pros: | Cons: |
| Lightweight with adequate support. | Uncomfortable before breaking them in. |
| Its Dri-lex eliminates moisture quickly. | May be damaged from continuous hooking on poles. |
| Fully waterproof. |
Do you feel uncomfortable working 50 feet above the ground? The Chippewa Men’s 9″ Logger Boot will solve this, or at least try to. Coming from a trusted and reputable American brand, quality is an understatement with this pair.
Who Is It For?
Like most boots on my list, this pair is for lineworkers keen on comfort and safety. Their slightly expensive price tag means more time and expertise was put into designing them. Verified purchasers of the boots admitted to their comfortable interior and tough exterior.
Features and Specs
The full-grain leather material of this boot protects your feet from all external threats. It features electrical hazard resistance as well as safety steel toe protection.
The boot has a Vibram sole with raised heels and deep lungs. This is purely for superior traction and to give line workers the confidence they need during work. It features a breathable waterproof membrane lining to prevent over-sweating and excessive heating.
Other notable features include a synthetic sole, Texon insole for added comfort, and Goodyear welt construction.
Why Should You Buy It?
All the features in these boots mean one thing: comfort and safety are top tiers. They are also long-lasting, giving you value for your money. Definitely a pair worth checking out.
Shortcomings
Note that while this boot is very tough, continuous hooking on ladders and poles may result in lace fraying and damage.
Ariat Men’s Powerline Work Boot
| Pros: | Cons: |
| Secure and stable. | Slightly difficult to put on. |
| Comfortable and flexible. | Inaccurate sizing. |
| Fully waterproof. | |
| Cool and stylish. |
This boot is the real deal regarding comfort and versatility. All accolades to the manufacturers for this. Ariat believes that product quality is non-negotiable, and this is what they have showcased with the Ariat Men’s Powerline Work Boot.
Who Is It For?
The Ariat Men’s Powerline Work Boots are one of the most versatile boots on my list. Their features make them excellent for line workers, loggers, or anyone working in extremely harsh conditions.
Features and Specs
I love comfortable boots, which is one of the main reasons why I included these boots in my list. They are designed using quality materials, making them perfect for industrial use. Their impermeable leather upper prevents water from penetrating in a while simultaneously fighting punctures and scratches.
Their lug sole design feels and looks equally good. It combines with the Torque Stability feature to you a great grip with excellent flexibility as you maneuver.
The boots feature a composite toe. Though not superior like steel toe, it still does an incredible job in protecting your toes from compression and impact. The boot’s rubber sole also deserves recognition for its slip resistance on rough terrain.
Why Should You Buy It?
This pair has two unique features that distinguish it from others in the list. First, it comes with a very wide shaft that makes the boots comfortable with good stability. And secondly, there’s a diamond rubber plate at the heel area prevents the user from sliding – two unique and very important features.
Shortcomings
Even with all the cool features, it’s unfortunate that these boots run short on size. You’ll have to buy half a size big. Secondly, the rubber cap at the heel area makes the boots challenging to put on.
Kenetrek Lineman Extreme Work Boot
| Pros: | Cons: |
| Durable waterproof membrane to keep your feet dry. | Unsuitable for areas with high temperatures. |
| Tough and durable. | Expensive. |
| Fully waterproof. | |
| Features shock-absorbing padding. |
How confident are you in your lineman boots? The 10-inch Kenetrek Lineman Extreme Work Boot is here to ensure that no harm comes to your feet. One look at it and you can tell that it means business. But what does it have to offer?
Who Is It For?
These boots are durable and make a perfect choice for those who want a pair that will last them for ages. Although expensive, every cent spent on this pair is worth it. They are also tough and strictly mean business.
Features and Specs
Kenetrek Work Boot meets all the ASTM compression and safety standards. Its steel toe does an incredible job of ensuring your toes are in one piece. It is fitted with a durable waterproof membrane to keep your feet fresh and dry at all times.
Full-grain leather is used in its construction, and it’s double and triple-stitched for added durability. The waterproof boots have a vulcanized rubber outsole with an open tread pattern. They are slip-resistant and keep you on your feet even under slippery conditions.
I love that the boot’s sizing is accurate and provides a perfect fit.
Why Should You Buy It?
I love this pair because it is tough and durable. It’s been constructed using the best material and double and triple-stitched to maximize its lifespan. Purchase this pair, and you’ll close the chapter of buying work shoes for quite a while.
Shortcomings
There is no insulation with this boot which means that it can get pretty hot under the weather. If you live in areas with extreme temperatures, you’re better off with other options.
Carolina Linesman Boots
| Pros: | Cons: |
| Stylish and versatile. | Unsuitable for high temperatures. |
| Durable full-grain leather upper. | |
| Right sizing. | |
| Super comfy. |
When a brand has been in the shoe industry for decades and knows everything about the game, they make shoes like the Carolina Lineman Boots. These boots have a solid reputation for durability and are trusted by thousands of line workers worldwide.
Who Is It For?
These Carolina boots are versatile and can be worn by loggers and construction workers. On weekends, you can wear them for casual occasions. They don’t have the best breathable properties and would be an unfit choice if you live in areas with extreme temperatures.
Features and Specs
Carolina is famous for producing quality and durable products. Their lineman boot here isn’t an exception, either. Its leather upper is fantastic and will protect your feet from water, abrasions, and punctures. A fully waterproof membrane is also added to ensure you return home with clean and dry feet.
These boots come comfortable right out of the box; no need for a break-in period. They are also true to their size; you don’t have to order a size big or small. A huge relief, that is!
The boots have high heels with a lug sole design, both of which serve to increase traction. Their 8-inch shaft and steel shanks are also supportive.
Why Should You Buy It?
Aside from being affordable, this pair is versatile, durable, and comfortable and comes with electrical hazard protection. What more could you ask of linemen boots?
Shortcomings
It would be great if Carolina made these boots more breathable and insulated. They are not, and users complained of being super uncomfortable, especially in hot conditions.
Carolina Linesman 10 Inch Cork Harness
| Pros: | Cons: |
| Adheres to ASTM standards. | Long break-in period. |
| Specially designed outsoles to keep away penetrations and currents. | Weak lace eyelets. |
| A waterproof scubaliner to keep the feet dry. | |
| Highly breathable. |
If the Carolina Linesman Boots above put you off because of their price (or whatever reason), here is another alternative from the same company. The Carolina Linesman 10 Inch Cork Harness is taller, cheaper, and comes with two color options.
Who Is It For?
Lovers of the Carolina Brand who want something fairly affordable will love this pair. Besides, they also suit workers who want assurance that the pair they buy will fully protect them, backed by a warranty.
Features and Specs
These boots meet all the ASTM standards and are protected from electrical hazards. Their composite toe is non-conductive and will protect your feet from crushing injuries and falling objects. Their upper is strong and very comfortable courtesy of their leather construction. A waterproof scubaliner is also fitted to keep the feet dry.
The boots have Gambrell lining with excellent moisture-wicking and breathable properties. They also feature a heavy-duty steel shank for added support and a unique outsole to protect the feet from penetrations, shocks, and open currents.
Why Should You Buy It?
Aside from coming at a reasonable price, these boots mean business when it comes to safety. Moreover, they are comfortable and durable, making them an excellent investment.
Shortcomings
A few users complained that the lace eyelets of these boots broke quickly and didn’t last. They also cited that they needed a long period to break into the boots.
Wesco Highliner 10″ Work Boot
| Pros: | Cons: |
| Arched steel shanks for added support and stability. | The laces are long and may trip you. |
| Its full-grain leather construction provides incredible protection. | Expensive. |
| Stitched heavily to make it long-lasting and durable. |
Climb to new heights effortlessly with the Wesco Highliner Work Boot. Although slightly more expensive than other boots in the review, this pair offers a lot.
Who Is It For?
Linemen, electricians, utility workers, and arborists will appreciate the services of these 10-inch boots the most. Any worker who has safety as their top priority is also welcome to purchase the boots.
Features and Specs
Beginning with what matters the most, the outsoles of these boots are made using Vibram with raised heels. They are fully slip-resistant, enabling you to climb ladders and poles confidently without the fear of slipping.
The boots are fitted with arched steel shanks for added support and stability when climbing ladders and poles. Rugged yet flexible full-grain leather is used in the boots’ construction. This material doesn’t just protect your feet from moisture and heavy objects; it also increases the boots’ lifespan.
Finally, it’s worth knowing that the Wesco Highliner Work Boot meets all ASTM’s safety and electric standards.
Why Should You Buy It?
Before scrolling past this pair because of its expensive price tag, just know everything about this pair screams safety, from its full-grain leather and welt construction to the Vibram outsoles. Additionally, the boots are heavily stitched to make them long-lasting.
Shortcoming
The boots are expensive, no doubt. But every dime spent on them is worth it. Here at About Boots, quality comes first.
Danner Men’s Logger Work Boot
| Pros: | Cons: |
| Tough and durable. | A bit heavy. |
| Its soles are interchangeable. | |
| Made of quality materials. |
Although initially designed for loggers, the features of these boots make them an excellent pick for firefighters and linemen. The Danner Men’s Logger Work Boots were created with durability and toughness in mind.
Who Is It For?
These boots easily scoop the award for the toughest pair on my list. If durability and toughness are on top of your bucket list, this is your pair of boots.
Features and Specs
Made in the United States, these boots are of exceptional quality. Their full-grain leather uppers are triple-stitched with nylon thread for added durability. They have a fiberglass shank and heavy-duty lacing eyelets for additional durability.
The boots are resoleable, which means you may replace the soles if they wear out instead of purchasing new ones.
The boots are a little hefty, but that’s to be expected given the amount of effort that went into making them robust. Their ruggedness comes with a lengthy break-in time.
Why Should You Buy It?
The Danner Men’s Logger Work Boots are among the toughest. Furthermore, they are incredibly durable, and you can always replace the soles rather than buy a new pair.
Shortcoming
This pair is heavy with a long break-in period. You’ll, therefore, find it uncomfortable when they are new.
Carhartt Men’s Composite Toe Boot
| Pros: | Cons: |
| Protected against electrical hazards. | Not fully waterproof. |
| Slip-resistant outsoles. | |
| Sufficiently breathable to keep the feet dry throughout. | |
| Great grip and traction. |
When no shoe seems to amplify your protection and safety at work, it’s time to try Carhartt. Carhartt is a top American brand with a reputation for quality. Their lineman boot is here to prove that’s the case.
Who Is It For?
The Carhartt Men’s Composite Toe Boot is an excellent pick if you’re looking for a durable, comfortable pair with electrical hazard protection. But it’s important to note that it’s not fully waterproof and isn’t the best choice for waterlogged areas.
Features and Specs
Carhartt constructed these boots using full-grain leather for maximum protection and durability. The material is water, abrasion, and dirt-resistant and will remain untarnished when spilled with all liquids. Cleaning the exterior is also not difficult.
A thick, dual-density foam insole and EVA midsole are used for comfort. Pain, injuries, and cramps are foreign concepts with this boot.
The manufacturers took protection to another level with this pair. They feature anti-slip rubber outsoles to keep you steady always. The outsoles have deep lugs for maximum grip on slippery surfaces. They are made lightweight for easy movement.
Finally, the boot’s EH rating protects you from up to 18,000 volts.
Why Should You Buy It?
When you choose these boots, you’re choosing durability. You’re choosing a safe toe box and excellent electrical hazard. You are choosing a quality boot from a reputable and well-established brand. You are choosing excellence!
Shortcomings
I’ll deduct a point or two from this pair, given that it’s not fully waterproof. A few users complained that the boots let water in when in extremely wet conditions.
Ariat Men’s Linesman Ridge Work Boot
| Pros: | Cons: |
| Relatively tough and sturdy. | Inaccurate sizing. |
| Durable leather construction. | |
| Very comfortable. |
Last on my list is another product from Ariat, proof of how good the company is.
Who Is It For?
These boots are for those who want a pair of strong, comfortable, durable, and waterproof lineman boots. Like other boots in the review, they can be worn by line workers, loggers, and construction workers.
Features and Specs
Not much is there to say about these boots other than they feature full-grain leather durable construction, are imported and have a synthetic sole. Their interior is super comfortable even after wearing them for hours. Their shaft runs from the arch to the mid-calf.
Why Should You Buy It?
Ariat Men’s Linesman Ridge Work Boots are a pair of good and sturdy boots that will keep your feet warm. Moreover, they are easy to wear and look good too.
Shortcomings
Some users complained that these pairs run a bit large. I bought them and found this to be true. But this is entirely solvable. Insert thick insoles inside the boots and lace them tightly for a snug fit.
How Do You Choose the Best Lineman Boots?
My favorite section here is the buying guide. You can’t purchase the best lineman boots if you don’t know what features to look out for. Many products claim to be the best but barely meet their promises.
Here are the things you should consider when purchasing your lineman boots.
Protection
Above everything else, protection should be your top priority with lineman boots. Possible risks and hazards characterize the electrical industry. One wrong move and you could seriously injure yourself.
You, therefore, need top assurance that the boots you are about to purchase will provide you with reasonable levels of safety. There are four types of protection lineman boots offer:
Safety Toe Protection
The American Society for Testing and Materials (ASTM) standards require the best lineman boots to protect users from any compression or impact from heavy equipment that may roll over or drop onto their feet.
Lineman boots are fitted with safety toe caps for this purpose. There are three options when it comes to safety toes: steel toe caps, composite toe caps, and alloy toe caps. Steel-toe boots offer the best protection though they are a bit bulky and occupy extra space.
Weather Protection
Snow squalls, icy sleet, or heavy downpour, you name it. As a line worker, you need to protect your feet from harsh weather. Lineman boots are designed to be extra tall with laces over the calves. The aim is to create and snug and protective fit.
The boots are also waterproof with an internal waterproofing system. They feature a breathable moisture wick lining to wick out moisture from the inside. Having clammy feet with wet socks can cause discomfort and bacteria growth.
Shank and Heel Protection
Shank ensures that you can climb poles and ladders without experiencing any pain or discomfort on your feet. The best lineman work boots have steel shanks. These shanks are wide and designed to be more supportive. They also distribute body weight evenly and reduce pressure points.
The heels of lineman boots are made raised for one purpose, to minimize the risk of slipping and falling when climbing. Raised heels will provide you with excellent traction.
Outsole Protection
Similar to safety toe, outsole protection is also essential. Most lineman boots are made with a thick, rigid rubber outsole with horizontal blocks and vertical sipes for tread patterns. These patterns give your boots a dependable hug they need to step on slippery surfaces.
Other effective materials for the outsole include polyurethane and Vibram. The outsoles are also made thick for better insulation in case of electrocution. A suitable outsole is rugged, sufficiently comprehensive, and flexible to provide you with the needed stability.
Comfort
The main selling point of any lineman boot (and any other shoe in general) is its comfort level. Why? Because no matter how well constructed and durable it is, no one will want it if it’s not comfortable.
You can tell how comfortable a lineman boot is by looking at its midsole and insole. The insole may or may not be removable (purely optional)
Additionally, sizing also plays a massive role in the comfort of a boot. Purchase a lineman boot that fits you perfectly. Don’t fret if you find your boots to be bigger. You can always use thick insoles and lace them tighter for a better fit.
Electric Hazard Rating
As a line worker, you’ll frequently contact live wires and power lines. Therefore, you’ll need a pair of boots that prevent you from getting electrocuted. Always check that the boot you want to purchase has an EH rating.
Breathability
As much as waterproofing is essential to lineman boots, the boots need to be breathable too. Lineman boots are usually insulated for added protection. The problem is that most insulated materials limit ventilation.
Manufacturers, therefore, make the inner lining of the boots moisture-wicking to get rid of any moisture. This means that your feet won’t get damp even if you sweat.
Thinsulate is an excellent example of such material. It is light, well-performing, and nicely insulating. The problem is that it’s not breathable and can become extremely uncomfortable in hot weather. They are only limited to cold weather.
In summary:
- The lineman boots you purchase should provide shank protection. When you’re on a ladder, you shouldn’t experience any sort of pain in your feet and ankles. Good lineman boots have shank support of 8 inches minimum.
- Still on protection, your lineman boots should provide safety toe protection to resist the impact of foreign objects.
- With electric hazards common in linemen’s line of duties, your boots should provide EH protection of up to 18,000V.
- Traction is also important in lineman boots. You can easily slip when standing on ladders and poles or in slippery areas. Your boots must, therefore, be slip-resistant.
- Don’t forget about heat resistance. Steel and iron poles in hot weather can cause pain and blisters on your feet. Your lineman boots should be able to combat this.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do linemen need special boots?
The special lineman boots are essential for two main reasons – comfort and safety. You’ll work for hours, climbing poles and moving up and down. You want a boot that when you take them off at the end of the day, you can worry less about pains, injuries and blisters on your feet.
The second is safety. Risks and hazards characterize the work of a lineman. Your shoes must, thus, ensure maximum protection and safety at all times. You’ll climb up utility poles and deal with open circuits and live wires as a line worker. The boots need to protect you from electrocution. Additionally, the boots must also give you excellent traction so that you don’t slip and fall.
Why do linemen wear tall boots?
Lineman boots can go up to 12 inches tall, with most on my guide being between 6” to 8”. Usually, they are designed tall to support your ankle while protecting your shin and calf from accidents. Calf and ankle support is essential to a line worker since you’ll be enduring extreme pressure on your feet when balancing on utility poles.
The heels of lineman boots are also raised to give them extra grip and traction when climbing ladders and poles.
Conclusion
I’m confident that by now, you know not only the best lineman boots that you’re going to purchase but also the features to look out for. Each boot is designed for different people. So, choose one that suits your needs. Above all, work safely and take good care of yourself!
