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Top Brown Work Boots – Including Both Safety and Soft Toe Options!

Brown work boots add a welcome pop of color to your attire, making it more interesting while still blending in nicely with workwear and different work environments. These work boots can also serve as a stylish accent, offering a fresh addition to your daily ensemble. Depending on the overall construction, they can even complement a casual look when paired with jeans. Finding the perfect brown work boots can be challenging, which is why we have taken the initiative to simplify the selection process through rigorous product testing. To provide a complete perspective, we have covered a wide range of brands, designs and budgets.

Detailed Evaluation – Brown Work Boots

  • Rating

    This is the trial text to check ratings.

    • Best in class
    • Excellent
    • Good
    • Fair
    • Poor
  • Price range
  • Overall score
  • Performance Breakdown
  • Comfort & Fit
  • Design & Build Quality
  • Durability
  • Sole & Traction
  • Safety Toe
  • Water Resistance
  • Value For Money
  • Insulation
  • Overview
  • Pros
  • Cons
  • Bottom Line

Best Design

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Timberland PRO Pit Boss Steel Toe Work Boot

View price at Amazon
  • $109 to $199
  • 8.6
  • 9
  • 9
  • 9
  • 8.5
  • 9
  • 6.5
  • 9
  • N/A
    • Premium, durable design
    • Comfortable
    • Steel toes
    • Electrical hazard protection
    • Strong traction
    • Not waterproof
    • Heavy and soles are quite rigid

Most Durable

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Caterpillar Second Shift Steel Toe Work Boot

View price at Amazon
  • $80 to $199
  • 8.6
  • 8
  • 9
  • 9
  • 9
  • 9
  • 7
  • 9
  • N/A
    • Durable construction
    • Steel toe protection
    • Powerful traction
    • Breathable insole
    • Electrical hazard protection
    • Rigid outsole
    • A bit heavy

Best Steel Toe

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Wolverine Raider 6-Inch Steel Toe Work Boot

View price at Amazon
  • $169 to $299
  • 8.3
  • 8.0
  • 9.0
  • 9.0
  • 7.0
  • 9.0
  • 7.0
  • 9.0
  • N/A
    • Steel toe protection
    • Well-crafted design and premium materials
    • Durable construction
    • Electrical hazard protection
    • Not waterproof
    • Sole isn’t very flexible

Best for Insulation

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Ariat Catalyst VX Defiant Gore-Tex Insulated Boot

View price at Amazon
  • $339 to $499
  • 8.3
  • 7.0
  • 9.0
  • 9.0
  • 9.0
  • 5.0
  • 9.0
  • 9.0
  • 9.0
    • GORE-TEX waterproof membrane
    • 400 grams of Thinsulate Ultra insulation
    • Vibram outsole with excellent traction
    • Very durable, rugged design
    • No safety toes
    • A bit heavy and difficult to remove and put on

Most Comfy

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Georgia Boot Hammer Internal Met Guard Steel Toe Work Boot

View price at Amazon
  • $164 to $299
  • 8.1
  • 9.0
  • 8.0
  • 8.0
  • 8.0
  • 9.0
  • 6.0
  • 9.0
  • N/A
    • Internal met guard
    • Steel toe caps
    • Very comfortable
    • High-quality leather and construction
    • Not waterproof
    • Slightly heavy

Detailed Product Evaluations

We've tested and evaluated the top brown work boots on the market, based on more than eighty models, covering some of the most trustworthy brands and versatile designs. Here are the details of our picks!

Best Design

Timberland PRO Pit Boss Steel Toe Work Boot

Image

Material

Nubuck leather

Type of Toe

Yes (steel)

Weight

4.2lb / 1.9kg / 67.4oz

Waterproof

No

Shaft Size

6 inches

Outsole

Timberland PRO rubber, Non-marking and Oil-resistant

Boot type

Slip-abrasion

Manufacturer

Timberland PRO

Safety certifications

Yes

Price range

$109.94 to $199.00
Ideal For
  • Professionals looking for extremely durable work boots
  • Hazardous work conditions
  • People who prefer heavy-duty yet comfortable work boots
Price range

$109.94 to $199.00

View price at Amazon

Rating

8.6

“Excellent”

Brand Name
9
9
9
8.5
9
6.5
9

Pros

  • Premium, durable design
  • Comfortable
  • Steel toes
  • Electrical hazard protection
  • Strong traction

Cons

  • Not waterproof
  • Heavy and soles are quite rigid

The Timberland PRO Pit Boss Steel Toe Work Boot stands out regarding design, durability, and overall performance.

It looks a bit old school but is far from boring, showcasing a thick leather upper with durable cast metal eyelets to hold the laces in place without easily breaking apart – even with heavy use.

We noted the visible, strong stitching throughout the upper and along the sole, giving us the assurance of lasting durability that we can maximize on the job.

A shock-diffusion plate helps maintain the boot’s structural strength, keeping it durable to last through the toughest tasks while performing remarkably well.

The steel safety toe caps form a layer of defense over our toes, keeping them safe against crushing injuries if machinery, tools, and other heavy objects are dropped or rolled by mistake over the feet.

We appreciate the electrical hazard-safe design that reduces the risk of electric shock in work environments with electrically charged objects that may accidentally be touched.

Meanwhile, the rubber outsole is oil- and slip-resistant, preventing slipping on tricky surfaces while ensuring that oil will not easily seep in.

It’s also resistant to heat and oil, offering superior durability that can take on challenging work conditions while providing ample foot support and stability.

Even if it’s not the most lightweight option, this boot delivers a comfortable experience.

It’s surprisingly comfortable even without foamy cushioning inside, thanks to the proprietary Timberland PRO 24/7 Comfort System providing the required padding and arch support.

We feel the comfort system supporting and cushioning our feet with every step, preventing the development of foot fatigue even after long hours of standing and walking. The thickly padded collar prevents chafing while also helping stabilize the ankle so it doesn’t slide or twist by accident while walking.

A moisture-wicking, breathable lining draws sweat away from the skin and allows it to escape quickly while allowing the air to circulate, keeping the boot interior much cooler and fresher for long periods – even in hot or humid environments.

We like the antimicrobial treatment that provides superior odor control, promoting a healthy foot environment throughout the busiest days at work.

As we previously mentioned, this boot is heavier than most modern work boots available now. However, the extra weight didn’t have a significantly negative effect on comfort based on our experience.

However, the sole is quite rigid and may restrict some foot motion so this component can affect comfort and mobility.

It’s worth noting that this boot isn’t waterproof, so we don’t recommend it for use in wet work areas.


Most Durable

Caterpillar Second Shift Steel Toe Work Boot

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Material

Full-grain leather

Type of Toe

Yes – steel toe

Weight

4lb / 1.81kg / 63.85oz

Waterproof

No

Shaft Size

6 inches

Outsole

Slip-resistant T3 rubber outsole

Boot type

Steel Toe

Manufacturer

Caterpillar

Safety certifications

Yes

Price range

$80.40 to $199.00
Ideal For
  • Working in work environments that have impact and compression hazards
  • People who prefer work boots with a relaxed fit
  • Those who like a work boot with a classic silhouette
Price range

$80.40 to $199.00

View price at Amazon

Rating

8.6

“Excellent”

Brand Name
8
9
9
9
9
7
9

Pros

  • Durable construction
  • Steel toe protection
  • Powerful traction
  • Breathable insole
  • Electrical hazard protection

Cons

  • Rigid outsole
  • A bit heavy

The Caterpillar Men’s Second Shift Steel Toe Work Boot has a no-nonsense design that speaks of superior durability, so it can be relied on to last long, even in tough environments.

We discovered that the streamlined design is versatile enough to be used on and off the worksite. The full-grain leather is thick and sturdy, keeping up with challenging activities without showing early signs of damage even with heavy use.

The Goodyear Welt construction ensures that the sole and upper are attached as strongly as possible, so the boot can perform well without these components getting detached easily.

The steel toe caps provide continuous protection against impact and compression threats, keeping the toes safe against severe crushing injuries in hazardous work settings.

A steel shank offers extra support underneath, helping make walking more stable across uneven surfaces while strengthening the boot’s structure. We welcome the electrical hazard protection that offers another layer of safety against electrocution in case of unintentional contact with open circuits in dry conditions.

The slip-resistant T3 rubber outsole has powerful traction, giving the boot an impressive grip on most surfaces.

This level of traction allows us to keep walking on unstable or slick ground conditions without losing our footing in the process.

The inside of the boot didn’t heat up quickly because of the Climasphere insole, which allows the air to move freely and maintains a breathable environment throughout the day.

The insole offers good cushioning and gives the foot a soft base for comfortable support while walking on hard ground.

We appreciate the addition of a mesh lining that encourages moisture and heat to dissipate quickly before making the boot interior feel overly warm. The collar is generously padded to keep the ankle in place while protecting the skin against painful friction with continuous walking. A PU sock liner surrounds the foot with a soft texture for an extra layer of defense against chafing and is removable for convenient cleaning.

We noted that the boot’s sole was a bit inflexible, so it started to get in the way of the foot’s natural motion before long.

The boot also feels quite heavy and can be uncomfortable to wear for long hours of walking and standing.


Best Steel Toe

Wolverine Raider 6-Inch Steel Toe Work Boot

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Material

Full-grain leather

Type of Toe

Yes – steel toe

Weight

3.25lb / 1.47kg / 51.85oz

Waterproof

No

Shaft Size

5.5 inches

Outsole

Slip, abrasion, and oil-resistant rubber outsole

Boot type

Steel Toe Boot

Manufacturer

Wolverine

Safety certifications

Yes

Price range

$146.95 to $199.00
Ideal For
  • Working in areas with impact and compression dangers
  • Those who prefer a relaxed fit for their work boots
  • People who are after work boots that can also be paired nicely with jeans and chinos
Price range

$146.95 to $199.00

View price at Amazon

Rating

8.3

“Excellent”

Brand Name
8.0
9.0
9.0
7.0
9.0
7.0
9.0

Pros

  • Steel toe protection
  • Casual look for versatility
  • Fully cushioned footbed
  • Flexible Contour Welt construction

Cons

  • A bit heavy
  • Not waterproof

The Muck Boot Arctic Outpost Tall Boot is designed to keep the foot warm in cold weather conditions, with the waterproof construction blocking snow, rain, mud, and other liquids so they won’t have a chance to seep in. We love the neoprene lining that works as an insulation layer, sealing in the warmth while preventing cold air from penetrating to ensure long-lasting comfort in cold environments. This lining flexes along with the foot’s movements to promote unrestricted movements. The fleece lining delivers another dimension of softness and warmth that significantly enhances foot comfort. For continuous walking stability, the thick, high-traction outsole plants the foot firmly into the ground and prevents slipping accidents.

Unique Features

Sole

The thick sole gives the boot a rugged look that blends perfectly with tough outdoor conditions that are expected with landscape work activities. It strongly grips the ground to enable you to walk safely over low-traction ground conditions while maintaining your steady footing even when you need to walk rapidly over tricky surfaces.

Fit

The neoprene material hugs the contours of the foot and calf, delivering a customized feeling that brings all-day comfort. Its flexible structure promotes unhampered mobility and comfortable walking. Meanwhile, the fleece lining offers increased warmth and softness while comfortably surrounding the foot.

Build

The rubber material resists dirt accumulation and can easily be cleaned, so you can easily get rid of soil stains and other debris at the end of the day. With a waterproof design working with the tall structure, the boot effectively blocks liquid elements from entering to guarantee all-day foot dryness.

Summary

The Muck Boot Arctic Outpost Tall Boot is our top pick for winter because of its waterproof design, insulating neoprene material, fleece lining, and thick outsole providing outstanding traction.


Best for Insulation

Ariat Catalyst VX Insulated Boot

Image

Material

Waterproof leather

Type of Toe

Soft Toe

Weight

4.38lb / 1.99kg / 70.2oz

Waterproof

Yes

Shaft Size

8 inches

Outsole

Vibram outsole

Boot type

Insulated Hunting Boots

Manufacturer

Ariat

Safety certifications

No

Price range

$339.95 to 499.00
Ideal For
  • Extremely cold environments
  • Work settings that need waterproof footwear
  • Those who prefer exceptionally rugged work boots that deliver superior protection
Price range

$339.95 to 499.00

View price at Amazon

Rating

8.3

“Excellent”

Brand Name
7.0
9.0
9.0
9.0
5.0
9.0
9.0

Pros

  • Waterproof GORE-TEX construction
  • Insulated
  • Rubber rand for tighter waterproofing seal
  • Continuous odor fighting
  • Four lace hooks on top for additional fit customization

Cons

  • Inflexible sole feels a bit hard
  • A bit heavy
  • Pricey

The Ariat Catalyst VX Defiant Gore-Tex Insulated Boot provides ultimate protection from the elements, especially in extreme weather conditions. It contains 400 grams of Thinsulate Ultra insulation to keep the foot cocooned in a warm atmosphere while outdoors during winter or in indoor locations with low-temperature environments. The boot features the impressive GORE-TEX lining that guarantees moisture sources won’t have a chance to seep in, ensuring total foot dryness and comfort. The same lining encourages the air to freely enter and circulate inside. We especially like the Vibram outsole that powerfully digs into the ground, promoting a safer walking experience as it prevents slipping accidents on unstable or slick surfaces.

Unique Features

Sole

The non-marking outsole is oil, heat, and slip-resistant to help The thick Vibram outsole stands out with aggressive lugs that deliver outstanding traction, making it much safer for you to walk on uneven or slippery surfaces without sacrificing your confident steps.

Fit

The boot has a snug-fitting design that locks the foot in place, promoting increased warmth to keep the foot as comfortable as possible. The snug fit also enhances the stability of your steps by preventing unintentional foot slipping inside the boot, especially while navigating tricky ground conditions at a hurried pace. This comfortably snug fit also prevents cold air from seeping in to ward off the unbearable chill while you’re working in cold surroundings.

Build

The rugged construction offers lasting durability that won’t easily deteriorate. The boot’s perimeter is wrapped with a rubber rand to keep the footwear protected against scratches, scuffs, and abrasions, especially in harsh outdoor conditions. We’re fans of the exclusive Cobalt VX technology creates a supportive structure while aiding in temperature management.

Summary

We picked the Ariat Catalyst VX Defiant Gore-Tex Insulated Boot for its impressive insulation, outstanding GORE-TEX waterproofing, excellent traction, and rugged design.


Most Comfy

Georgia Boot Hammer Steel Toe Work Boot

Image

Materials

Leather

Type of Toe

Yes (steel)

Weight

3lb / 1.4kg / 49.38oz

Waterproof

Goretex

Shaft Size

6 inches

Outsole

Synthetic Oil Resistant

Boot type

Work Shoe

Manufacturer

Georgia

Safety certifications

Yes

Price range

$164.99 to $299.00
Ideal For
  • People who prefer work shoes that are extremely comfortable to wear
  • Working in dry conditions that won’t require waterproof protection
  • Those who are exposed to items that can fall on the foot and cause injuries
Price Range

$164.99 to $299.00

View price at Amazon

Rating

8.1

“Excellent”

Brand Name
9.0
8.0
8.0
8.0
9.0
6.0
9.0

Pros

  • Remarkably comfortable fit with the exclusive Comfort Core technology that delivers a high-energy return to prevent foot fatigue
  • Strong traction on different ground and floor conditions to prevent accidental slipping
  • Internal Met-Guard protects the foot from impacts while maintaining a comfortably soft structure within the boot
  • Flexible outsoles do not get in the way of natural mobility for increased movement efficiency
  • Offered in a wide range of sizes for men and women

Cons

  • Not waterproof – this boot does not stop water, mud, and other liquid substances from penetrating, so the feet can be completely soaked and uncomfortable when exposed to wet conditions
  • Feels a bit heavy mainly because of the steel shank and the rugged outsoles, but this will not likely result in all-day discomfort

The Georgia Boot Hammer Internal Met Guard Steel Toe Work Boot impressed us with its premium construction, shining through not only with high-performance features but also with outstanding comfort. The steel toes offer maximum protection against impact and compression hazards that can suddenly drop or roll from high places. Meanwhile, the internal met guard delivers additional protection for the top of the foot to protect it from being seriously crushed or bruised in case heavy objects such as construction materials, tools, or pieces of equipment accidentally fall on the boot. We love the insole that’s enhanced with the exclusive Comfort Core technology as it envelops the foot in a cushy embrace.

Unique Features

Sole

The thick rubber outsole delivers strong traction, so you can walk with increased confidence while avoiding accidental slips when navigating inclined, unstable, or slippery surface conditions. The flexible sole enables you to walk without restrictions as it adjusts quickly to your foot’s action without getting in the way of your agile movements.

Fit

We especially like this boot’s thick, foamy interior as it delivers a comfortably snuggled feeling but doesn’t cram the foot into an uncomfortably tight space. The collar is fitted with a double layer of padding to ward off painful friction while improving the snug fit.

Build

The combination of the internal met guard and a steel toe provides exceptional foot protection against severe injuries, making this boot an outstanding choice for very harsh job sites with constant exposure to impact and compression threats. A steel shank helps maintain the boot’s rigidity, so the structure doesn’t deteriorate easily with heavy use in tough settings.

Summary

The Georgia Boot Hammer Internal Met Guard Steel Toe Work Boot offers fantastic foot protection, with the combination of a steel toe and an internal met guard to keep the foot safe against dangerous compression and impact. It’s also very comfortable and grips low-traction surfaces for continuous safety.


Alternative Options

Rockrooster Side-Zip Steel Toe Work Boot

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The Rockrooster Side-Zip Steel Toe Work Boot is designed to keep the foot as comfortable as possible without skimping on the qualities that need to be present in high-quality work boots. The steel toe cap guards the foot against crushing injuries when compression and impact dangers are accidentally dropped onto the boot. The side zipper allows you to quickly put on and take off the boot without needing to tinker with the complete lace system, so you can get to the crucial activities of the day without spending unnecessary time on the boot-wearing task. The insole is enhanced with the proprietary COOLMAX technology that moves moisture away from the skin to maintain a comfortable and dry foot feeling throughout the day. This technology works for temperature regulation as it provides much-needed insulation to keep the foot warm during cold days while working hard to maintain a cool boot interior when you’re working in hot locations. The water-resistant boot keeps the boot dry when it’s exposed to limited moisture sources. We noticed that the suede material easily attracts dirt so the boot may be difficult to maintain and keep clean. We’re a bit concerned as well that the flexible sole may be too thin and may not last as long as thick, inflexible soles.

Keen Pyrenees Boot

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The Keen Pyrenees Boot may have been originally designed as a hiking boot but is packed with the qualities that are associated with high-quality work boots. The waterproof leather works in tandem with the exclusive KEEN.DRY waterproof membrane to seal out liquids so they won’t easily penetrate the boot, making it possible for you to enjoy completely dry feet while you’re surrounded by wet elements in challenging job sites. The ergonomically shaped footbed follows the contours of the foot for customized comfort. The heavy-duty outsole has deep lugs that offer superior traction to help you navigate tricky ground conditions without compromising your safe and stable steps in the process. The rubber reinforcement on the toe protects this area against premature damage when there’s exposure to abrasive materials that can otherwise cause scratches and scuffs. This boot doesn’t have safety toes, so it’s not suitable for harsh work environments. It’s also more expensive than other work boots with similar features.

Danner Workman Boot

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The Danner Workman Boot has GORE-TEX waterproof protection that completely blocks mud, water, and other wet elements so you’ll be able to work outdoors in inclement weather and in wet indoor settings while ensuring that your foot stays dry all throughout the day. The classic work boot silhouette looks great with workwear and is also handsome enough to go remarkably well with jeans, so you’ll be able to enjoy the premium aesthetic in and out of the work area. The non-conductive heel and sole offers a secondary layer of electrical hazard protection to keep you safe from electric shock if you have contact with live currents in dry conditions. The OrthoLite footbed provides a cushioned platform to keep the foot fully supported all day long and wards off foot pain by easing pressure zones. The Vibram SPE midsole delivers the rebound needed to bring back the energy to each step so you can walk comfortably for longer. The snug fit, however, isn’t ideal for wide feet and for those who prefer roomier work boots.

Dewalt Halogen Safety Work Boot

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The Dewalt Halogen Safety Work Boot has an aluminum toe cap that keeps the foot safe from grave injuries if impact and compression threats are suddenly dropped or rolled onto the boot from high spots in the workplace. The aluminum cap isn’t a heavy as steel, so the boot feels much lighter than steel-toed boots and is more comfortable to use over long periods as it doesn’t drag heavily on the foot. The mesh lining maintains a cool and comfortable interior by allowing the air to freely pass through the boot to promote good ventilation, preventing heat and moisture from building up even with long hours of continuous boot use in humid or hot locations. The boot offers a non-primary level of electrical hazard protection that helps increase your safety against electric shock if you’re accidentally exposed to open electrical circuits in dry conditions. The outsole strongly grips low-traction surfaces to allow you to walk safely without risking your steady footing. This boot doesn’t have waterproof features, so it won’t protect your foot from getting extremely wet when you’re in environments that are surrounded by wet elements.

Rockport Sharp & Ready Chukka Boot

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The Rockport Sharp & Ready Chukka Boot is probably the best chukka boot we’ve used. The premium leather adds an elegant vibe to your uniforms and can even elevate the look of simple jeans and plain shirt ensembles. The EVA footbed comfortably cradles the foot with ample cushioning to prevent pain so you’ll be able to walk and stand for hours without being disturbed by aching feet. The proprietary comfort system works with a shock-absorbing heel that soaks up and evenly disperses the force produced by continuous walking, protecting the leg and foot muscles from becoming fatigued at the end of a busy workday. The outsole offers strong traction that enables you to walk confidently across wet or rough surfaces while avoiding slipping accidents. This boot isn’t built with safety toe components and isn’t recommended for harsh work settings with impact and compression risks. In addition, the non-waterproof design isn’t ideal for extremely wet worksites.

Selection Methodology

Our team employed a meticulous selection methodology to curate this list of top brown work boots. We carefully considered various aspects that are crucial when searching for the best work boots in brown. To ensure comprehensive evaluations, we extensively tested these boots across different scenarios, allowing us to assess their performance under varying parameters. In conducting our evaluations, we relied on a combination of personal experiences and reliable data available for each product. This approach enabled us to create thorough and informative product reviews that serve as a valuable guide in your selection process. Our aim is to simplify your search procedure by providing detailed insights, eliminating the need for you to invest excessive time and effort. To offer a well-rounded perspective, we have included boots from a wide range of reputable brands and diverse designs/features. This selection encompasses both safety and non-safety options, ensuring that we cater to different preferences and requirements.

Conclusion

The products in these reviews were selected after considering the aspects that need to be taken into account when searching for the best brown work boots. The top three products – the Caterpillar Excavator LT Composite Toe Boot, Puma Safety Conquest Comp Toe Boot, and Wolverine Raider 6-Inch Steel Toe Work Boot – had the qualities that deliver aesthetic and functional benefits in different work settings in brown profiles that are suitable for use in and out of the workplace. The reviews aim to help you find the best work boot choice in the most convenient manner possible.

FAQs

Can brown work boots look good with overalls and uniforms?
Yes – the best brown work boots are designed to blend seamlessly with workwear for enhanced aesthetics.
Are brown work boots easier to clean compared to black ones?
Not necessarily – although it’s harder to see if brown work boots are polished or not, compared to black boots that easily show a lack of polish.
What’s the main advantage of brown work boots over black ones?
The best brown work boots can provide your workwear with more character in a discreet manner.
Do brown work boots deteriorate more quickly than black ones?
It depends on the material, but brown leather can actually look more elegant with long-term use as it develops a beautiful patina.

Luke Davis

Luke Davis

Luke is the lead author on WorkWear.org. He has a vast experience in construction engineering and project management in California and Texas, where he had the chance to put to test a wide range of safety boots and PPE. Outside work, Luke is an avid hiker and not surprisingly a DIY fanatic!