Most people are afraid of heights and being on the roof sends shivers down their spine.
It’s natural. Roofing is among the riskiest work environment. A small mishap can send you tumbling down several feet into the ground causing severe injury.
As such, the kind of shoes that you wear when roofing matters significantly. They are the difference between safety and risk.
The best roofing boots are the first line of protection when working at heights.
What Are The Best Shoes For Roofing?
If you don’t want to wear roofing boots but instead are looking for a pair of roofing shoes, your best bet would be to wear hiking shoes.
Alternatively, you can also wear skating shoes because the gum sole on those shoes is designed to stick to the asphalt.
If you don’t have to wear boots, wear some good skating shoes. For example:
Their gum soles are meant to stick to skateboard decks made of asphalt. This makes them perfect for shingling. Their adhesive properties make them a great match for metal and tile roofs. In addition, they are very comfortable.
Another popular option is the Nike Men’s Air Monarch IV Cross Trainer.
Roofing work can also be done with these shoes. On most surfaces, they work really well. Moreover, they are more cushioning on tile roofs and help absorb impact, minimizing the risk of breaking them.
Everything You Need to Know About BEST ROOFING BOOTS | Top 3 Comparison
Most people are afraid of heights and being on the roof sends shivers down their spine.
It’s natural. Roofing is among the riskiest work environments. A small mishap can send you tumbling down several feet into the ground causing severe injury.
As such, the kind of shoes that you wear when roofing matters significantly. They are the difference between safety and risk.
The best boots for shingle roofing are the first line of protection when working at heights.
When it comes to choosing the best roofing shoes, I see people wear whatever they are most comfortable in. A good quality skate or tennis shoe is your best choice when it comes to not wanting to wear roofing boots.
A decent pair of roofing boots can enhance your safety when working on the roof.
Various factors make one pair better than the others in the context of roofing. Among the most important include a secure grip, lightweight and rugged construction, and comfort.
These are the very factors that we used to separate the wheat from the chaff. You see, it’s not everyone that claims to be good is good, and the same case applies to roof boots.
In such a risky work environment as roofing, you cannot afford to take risks to determine whether a particular pair of boots is excellent. It is one learning experience not worth taking.
Top 10 Best Roofing Boots
If you want to learn more about the best boots available for roofing, here are some of the most popular boots to consider.
1. EVER BOOTS “Ultra Dry Men’s Premium Leather Waterproof Work Boots Insulated Rubber Outsole
Serious workers need serious boots that protect their feet adequately. Nothing should come in the way of the perfect job, and that is why you need the best roofing boots like the Ever Boots, the best waterproof work boots you will find.
There are many reasons the footwear is our number one choice, but we will focus on some of them in the following ever boots tank review.
Comfort, Durability, and Appeal
A comfortable boot is ideal in any roofing job, and no other shoe demonstrates this better than the Ever Boots. We particularly love how the shoes feel, and you would never want to remove them. It features a comfortable midsole that cushions your feet from any shock, and a rubber outsole to ensure durability and smooth walking.
Unlike most other boots on the market, this shoe features water-resistant leather that keeps your feet dry and warm. The waterproof roofing boots have excellent insulation that feels great, and also makes them ideal as roofing shoes for metal roofs.
Without sugar coating anything, the insulated rubber work boots are quite appealing boots that you can use on other non-work occasions like hiking and camping. The soft leather work boots look the part effortlessly.
Drawbacks
While it has the looks and features, these boots may not be the best for backpacking and long distance walking. It is a little bit stiff and can cause blisters.
2. Thorogood Men’s American Heritage 6″ Moc Toe, MAXwear Wedge Safety Toe Boot
An impressive work boot – that is what Thorogood Boots Moc toe is all about, and the reason it is our second choice. It has all the qualities of a great work boot.
That means you can wear it to your roofing job and be completely safe. The boot best describes the American products – quality – as the following Thorogood roofer boots review indicates.
Comfort and Safety
With an impressive user satisfaction of 4.4/5, many users love the Thorogood roofing boots, not just us. It is quite comfortable, but you have to break into it first. The insole is comfortable Poron cushion that absorbs shock easily and sufficiently. You are as comfortable as you can get on the roof – the best roofing shoes for metal roofs.
For protection, Thorogood 6 Moc toe boot features a steel toe that protects your feet from any falling objects. The tobacco oil tan leather is as sturdy as they can get to overcome abrasion.
It also comes with a fiberglass shank which adds to the shoe’s overall durability.
Drawbacks
We noticed the boots are a little bit narrow and may not be the best for people with wide feet. Some customers have complained of falling soles after a period of use – not a good thing.
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3. Golden Fox Men’s Premium Leather Soft Toe Light Weight Industrial Construction Moc Work Boots Insulated
It is one of the few shoes that are quite ideal for roofing jobs. In other words, they have all the necessary features to make them suitable for your next roofing jobs.
But what makes it our first choice boot? Is it an attractive design?
Leather Upper
It is without a shred of doubt that this shoe is perfect on various aspects such as durability and comfort. In particular, it features oil grain leather which is durable and soft on the feet, as well. And for additional durability, the boot features a Goodyear welt construction.
Comfort
For comfort, the boots feature a pigskin collar and mesh lining which will keep your feet warm in cold weather – you don’t need to work in freezing feet. The sole wedge cushion is lightweight and oil resistant, as well. It contributes to your overall comfort, adequately.
Another thing we love about the boot is its lightweight design. The shoes feel light and comfortable.
Safety
The outsole has the excellent traction that gives you the necessary grip on the roof as you work. The leather upper can take a few beatings without an issue.
Drawbacks
The shoe feels a little bit too warm to use well in scorching weather.
4. Timberland PRO Men’s Wedge Sole 6″ Boot
There various features that make this good-looking timberland work boots men’s our top choice for roofing and it includes a leather upper.
But what else would make anyone fit on this on this boot and head for the roof? Let’s find out in the following timberland Pro review.
Durable and Comfortable
We found this timberland pro boots anti-fatigue to be quite comfortable, allowing sufficient air circulation and proving relatively lightweight. The leather is a durable fabric to protect your feet from falling nails and other objects.
The shoe also has a rubber sole for flexibility, durability and excellent grip.
Other comfort features on these timberland roofing boots include the EVA midsole and lace-up design for a snug fit.
Safety
The shoe features a rubber outsole that provides good traction. It gives you a good hold on the roofing surface, and you don’t have to be afraid of slips. Rubber also offers adequate grounding, reducing risks of electrocution in the process.
Drawbacks
According to a good number of users, the boots are not the most durable. The sole can easily split or peel off.
5. Caterpillar Men’s Argon Comp Toe Lace-Up Work Boot
The first thing that strikes you the moment you lay your eyes on these caterpillar boots men is the attractive design.
Simply, it is something that you can wear for a roofing job, as well as, your friend’s wedding.
Safety and Comfort
What makes the caterpillar argon boots comfortable is the blend of leather and synthetic material. We loved how lightweight they felt. They have a rubber sole which proves a great feature to provide sufficient traction and comfort.
Caterpillar lace up boots features an SRX compound for slip resistance and comfort.
The composite toe is an excellent feature to protect your feet from falling objects, and if you need to go through a metal detector. Furthermore, its low-top design is a source of safety assurance. Most men, as opposed to women, feel more comfortable in low shoes in comparison to high boots.
The boot looks well-made and with the features to make it last for years.
Drawbacks
The boot feels a bit uncomfortable in hot weather. Most reviewers say that they come apart quickly, especially the eyelets and insole.
6. Danner Men’s Bull Run 6” Work Boot
A comfortable and robust boot is always a blessing to have, whether working or just strolling around. Danner Bull Run Moc toe is not only a comfortable boot but also a real gem for roof working.
It is not every boot that you can take to the roof. Check out the Danner Bull Run review for other features.
Comfortable and Strong
The first impression of the Danner Bull run steel toe is that it is durable. It has some decent stitching with leather and wedge sole. However, it is quite breathable and well-cushioned, featuring OrthoLite footbed. The Danner Bull run boots easily take to your feet like no other boot and are not so bad to look at – quite appealing.
The ‘made in the US’ label tells you that you have a boot for a long time. Danner Bull run has a full-grain upper and wedge sole for adequate longevity and grip.
The outsole is oil and slip resistant, a feature to ensure your safety. But it also has a steel shank for additional protection.
Drawbacks
There are a bunch of complaints from users regarding cracked soles. They could also do better with the insole. It is not among the best.
7. Golden Fox Steel Toe Men’s Lightweight Work Boots Moc Toe Boot Insulated
One highlight feature of the Golden Fox boots is its lightweight design. The golden fox work boots is a shoe that most roof workers will find easy to use.
The boot, however, has several safety features that are an excellent addition for any roof worker.
Check out the following golden fox boots review.
Comfortable and Durable
For starters, the boot feels lighter than most of the other boots in this review. The oil-resistant outsole has a grip for sufficient support and flexibility. The non-slip roofing shoes are the kind that you quickly feel comfortable in when working in the hot weather.
Golden Fox steel toe boots allow a good flow of air within, and the insole and footbed provide sufficient cushioning to protect your feet from the shock, and for additional comfort.
Safety
You will love the several safety features that the Golden Fox Moc toe boots packs including a steel toe and sturdy upper. That means your delicate feet are safe from the falling hammer or any other tool. The heavy duty leather is the kind that protects your feet from hot tar, and equipment.
Drawbacks
The boots may be a little too rigid for some people, especially those with Achilles issues They may also not be ideal for walking for long distances.
8. Red Wing Heritage Men’s Round 6″ Boot
With a buyer satisfaction rating from Amazon, you will agree with me that the Red Wing work boots are a decent quality show.
There’s something that users find quite appealing as a working and everyday boot, meaning that it will be a good choice for you.
They can’t all be wrong.
Comfortable and Strong
Red Wing Heritage Moc 6 boot is without a doubt a durable boot with full-grain leather, triple stitching, and Goodyear welt construction.
For comfort, the Red Wing Heritage work boots features a round toe styling and crepe sole. The boot has a decent footbed and is not too warm to make you sweat and uncomfortable. Its lace-up design provides a snug fit to prevent shoe movement and friction.
The treaded outsole on this Red Wing boots men’s fashion is flexible and provides sufficient grip even as you work on the roof. It is the kind of boot that any worker can depend on as they produce their best work.
Drawbacks
One sticking disadvantage of using these boots is that they feel too hard on the heels. A good number of users also complain about this issue. They are also not quite as lightweight as you would expect.
Considerations when Choosing the Best Roofing Boots
Even professional roofers can fall from roofs with fatal results if they are not wearing the proper footwear.
In addition, if you’re scared of heights or uncomfortable going on top of the building, then don’t go up there. Make sure someone else who’s experienced enough to replace your skills does it in your place. It takes confidence to climb a roof.
Good shoes are essential for getting started. You should wear the right shoes when walking on your metal roof since it is slippery compared to other roofing products.
Almost like it’s grabbing the roof, the bottom should have a soft, rubbery feel. Even on hot days you should feel a bit sticky.
Make sure the soles of your shoes are clean. You can scratch or even damage your roof if there is dirt or gravel stuck in the grooves. Additionally, it may make it difficult for you to walk.
Furthermore, the whole foot needs to be covered. If you are working on roofing, you shouldn’t wear flip-flops or sandals, doesn’t matter how old they are, and you shouldn’t wear threadbare old sneakers because they will slide off.
Also, work boots should not be heavy or rigid, as they may damage the roof. It’s important to wear pliable, flexible shoes with a sticky grip.
The soles on tennis shoes, Converse, and skate shoes are generally completely flat, which is why roofers prefer them.
A Solid Grip
The first thing to look at when choosing your ideal roofing pair is a solid grip. In essence, falls are the primary cause of fatalities in the roofing industry. They account for up to three-quarters of the deaths. As such, a good grip is essential to prevent slides and slips, especially when you are on the roof.
Invest in a boot that has a secure grip to prevent slips when you are more than ten feet above the ground. Ideally, the outsole should be rubber or synthetic material, and sufficiently thick. Choose the pair that features thin but aggressive tread design.
Shock Resistance
Working on the roof also exposes you to risks of electrocution. See, some households utilize an overhead line to connect to the grid, and a mishap can make live wires fall on the roof. Good rubber soles are poor conductors of electricity and will help keep you safe from electrocution.
Material
Roofing materials like asphalt shingles cause abrasive damage to the roofing shoes. Your shoes will not last long if the upper is anything less than durable and rugged. If you want to like also motorcycle shoes.
The leather is a good choice of material. It is tough and will protect your feet from various risk hazards. It is also lightweight, as well as, breathable.
Comfort
Your level of comfort determines efficiency and safety, as well. A work boot should feel comfortable for hours to enhance your concentration. Choose your boots depending on the local weather.
For example, if you will be working in hot weather, it’s best to choose an adequately ventilated work boot that allows smooth flow of air. Go for the insulated boot if working in cold climates, and a waterproof boot in places where it rains a lot…
It’s best to make all the comfort features for proper support and cushioning. That means shoe design with a decent amount of arch support, a comfortable footbed and the toe area that allow foot flexibility.
Snug Fit
You have no time to deal with your shoes when working on the roof and so it’s best to stay off any footwear that doesn’t provide a snug fit. Avoid slip-on or sandals and opt for a lacing system that goes all the way to the top of the tongue to allow easy adjustability and snug fit. A loose boot is an injury risk.
You can get blisters and wounds that can cause pain and discomfort in the long run.
Risks Associated With Roofing Construction
1. Tripping Hazards
It is easy for tripping hazards to form among loose debris such as tools, leaves, building materials, and branches.
2. Weather Conditions
Temperatures above or below freezing, heavy rain, or snow fall all present risks.
3. Wet Surfaces
Conditions that are wet make surfaces slippery, creating a slip hazard.
4. Electrical Hazards
Construction workers may be electrocuted if they work with electricity.
5. Chemicals
The presence of chemicals in the environment can also cause illness to you or damage to objects, including shoes.
6. Ergonomics
There are many repetitive motions and activities associated with roof work. In addition to standing and walking for very long periods, you may kneel, climb, and lift, causing you to put a lot of stress on your legs and feet.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. What are the best construction materials for roofing boots?
There are many different types of roofing materials, such as asphalt, clay tiles, slates, and metal. The thicker treads on roofing shoes are good at gripping rough asphalt shingles.
In addition to removing debris from roofs, these also work for moss or leaves. In contrast, roofs consisting of smoother metal or slate require shoes with a tighter tread pattern.
2. What type of footwear should I avoid for roofing work?
While sneakers may seem like a good choice due to their light weight and comfort, they don’t usually provide the kind of solid footing required for an inclined roof. In addition, they often lack adequate support.
When standing on an incline, roofing footwear should fit snugly enough to prevent the foot from pushing forward into the shoe and causing pain. Also, avoid wearing flip flops and sandals.
3. What are the differences between roofing shoes and work boots?
Work boots designed specifically for roofing are known as roofing boots. On the boots, they are usually equipped with a special tread pattern that is designed to prevent slipping.
In addition to allowing greater mobility, roofing boots are also designed so that roofers can walk and kneel safely on steep slopes.
There are specialized roofing shoes that have features unique to them. Some boots have integrated magnets in their soles, so they can walk on steel roofs. Replacement foam rubber pads are available for maximum grip.
Final Thoughts
There are countless boot options on the market that you can use for roofing, but not every one of them is ideal. A boot like Ever Boots, our top choice, has all the features you would expect from a decent work boot. We are talking about cushioned footbed, durable leather, and lightweight design.
They are the kind you can rely on for support and foot protection – roofing jobs are awash with risks, and you need to feel safe to produce your best work yet.
