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Top 5 Lace-Up Work Boots (2023) – Providing Convenience and Comfort

Best Overall

Carhartt Rugged Flex 6-Inch Comp Toe Work Boot

Editors Rating: 9.3 /10

  • People who prefer comfortable safety toe work boots with great value for money
  • Tough work environments with exposure to hazardous impact and compression
  • Settings that need high-traction work boots

Best Logger

AdTec 9-Inch Crazy Horse Leather Work Boot

Editors Rating: 8.8 /10

  • People who prefer comfortable soft-toe logger boots
  • Tough outdoor work environments
  • Those who are looking for great value, premium logger boots

Best Toe Protection

Timberland Pit Boss Steel Toe Work Boot

Editors Rating: 8.6 /10

  • Professionals looking for extremely durable work boots
  • Hazardous work conditions
  • People who prefer heavy-duty yet comfortable work boots

Work boots come in different styles, and sorting through the multiple options can be confusing. You can’t go wrong with the classic lace-up profile if you’re still undecided about which style to go for. This style is readily available – you won’t have to look far and wide to find a great pair of lace-up work boots!

Adjusting the fit of lace-up work boots is easy, too, and you won’t have difficulty achieving a personalized fit.

We’ve tried and tested dozens of high-quality work boots with lace-up styles, and we’re here to help you narrow down your options. We’ve handpicked five products that outshone the other contenders, and here are our observations while road-testing these lace-up work boots’ performance on the job.

Our Picks – Top Lace-Up Work Boots

  1. Carhartt Rugged Flex 6-Inch Comp Toe Work Boot – Best Overall
  2. AdTec 9-Inch Crazy Horse Leather Work Boot – Best Logger
  3. Timberland Pit Boss Steel Toe Work Boot – Best Toe Protection
  4. Under Armour Micro G Valsetz Leather Waterproof Tactical Boot – Best Tactical
  5. Thorogood American Heritage Moc Toe Work Boot – Best Style

Evaluation & Overview Table

System
  • Rating
  • Price Range
  • Best Overall
  • Performance Breakdown
  • Comfort & Fit
  • Design & Build Quality
  • Durability
  • Sole and Traction
  • Safety Toe
  • Water Resistance
  • Value for Money
  • Overview
  • Pros
  • Cons
  • Bottom Line

Best Overall

Carhartt Rugged Flex Work Boot

View price at Amazon
  • 9.3/10
  • $120 to $199
  • 9.3
  • 10
  • 10
  • 10
  • 10
  • 9
  • 6
  • 10
    • Composite toe caps
    • Very comfortable
    • Flexible, excellent-grip sole
    • Electrical hazard-safe
    • Not waterproof

Best Logger

AdTec 9-Inch Work Boot

View price at Amazon
  • 8.8/10
  • $72 to $99
  • 8.8
  • Performance Breakdown
  • 8
  • 9
  • 9
  • 9
  • N/A
  • 8
  • 10
  • Overview
    • Durable construction
    • Comfortable
    • Recraftable sole
    • Strong traction
    • No toe protection

Best Toe Protection

Timberland Pit Boss Steel Toe Work Boot

View price at Amazon
  • 8.6/10
  • $109 to $199
  • 8.6
  • 9
  • 9
  • 9
  • 8.5
  • 9
  • 6.5
  • 9
    • Steel toe protection
    • Comfortable and durable
    • Electrical hazard protection
    • Strong traction
    • Not waterproof
    • Rigid sole

Best Tactical

Under Armour Micro G Boot

View price at Amazon
  • 8.3/10
  • $139 to $199
  • 8.3
  • 9
  • 8
  • 7
  • 8
  • N/A
  • 9
  • 9
    • Waterproof
    • Shock-absorbing footbed
    • Reinforced toe with TPU cap
    • Premium, durable construction
    • Plastic lace hooks don’t look extremely sturdy

Best Style

Thorogood Heritage Work Boot

View price at Amazon
  • 7.5/10
  • $239 to $299
  • 7.5
  • 8
  • 8
  • 8
  • 6
  • N/A
  • 6
  • 9
    • Premium moc toe style
    • Shock-absorbent footbed
    • Made in the USA
    • Electrical hazard protection
    • Not waterproof
    • Weak traction

Detailed Product Reviews

Here is the detailed evaluation of some of the top Lace-Up Work Boots that we have worn and tested.

1. Best Overall – Carhartt Rugged Flex 6-Inch Comp Toe Work Boot

Overall: 9.3/10

10
10
10
10
9
6
10
Ideal For
  • People who prefer comfortable safety toe work boots with great value for money
  • Tough work environments with exposure to hazardous impact and compression
  • Settings that need high-traction work boots

Materials

Leather

Outsole

Carhartt Rugged Flex

Waterproof

No

Safety Toe

Yes (composite)

Weight

2 lbs. / 935 grams / 33 oz

What we like

  • Composite toe caps
  • Very comfortable
  • Flexible, excellent-grip sole
  • Electrical hazard-safe

What we don’t like

  • Not waterproof

The Carhartt Rugged Flex 6-Inch Comp Toe Work Boot rocked the lace-up style with superior performance on the job.

Working in hazardous conditions didn’t bother us, thanks to the composite toe caps shielding our toes against serious harm.

The electrical hazard-safe design provided another layer of protection, which made it much safer for us to work in areas with risks of an electric shock. Aside from these protective features, this lace-up work boot was also very comfortable.

It featured a rugged yet flexible sole that allowed us to move without feeling restricted and had a grippy feel for better stability.

A More Detailed Look

Sole

One of the boot’s strengths lies in the exclusive sole design.

We were impressed with the Rugged Flex sole that, as promised, easily flexed and adapted to our steps for a natural, comfortable way of walking.

The sole looked like the ones fitted into most heavy-duty work boots but wasn’t stiff.

Meanwhile, the outsole had aggressive lugs that powerfully dug into the ground we walked on, allowing us to walk more safely as we avoided slipping accidents.

Fit

A combination of superb features boosted this boot’s comfort level.

We especially liked how the EVA midsole and PU insole worked together to deliver ample cushioning and shock absorption, making our experiences exceptionally comfortable.

Special mention should be given to the flexible sole that easily accommodates the foot’s movements for enhanced comfort and agility. To fight excessive sweating even with all-day boot use, the FastDry lining draws moisture away from the skin.

With the lace-up design, adjusting the boot’s fit was easy whenever required.

Build

We appreciated the boot’s composite toe caps while working around compression and impact hazards. These protective toes formed a shield to stop heavy items from crushing our toes, which can be dropped accidentally.

We also welcomed the extra protection from the electrical hazard-safe construction that minimized the risk of electrocution in dry conditions. The heavy-duty design kept up with challenging conditions and didn’t easily show signs of damage. We liked how the thick leather, sturdy laces, and strong metallic hardware looked and felt tough enough to withstand heavy use.

It’s worth mentioning that this isn’t a waterproof boot and is not ideal for wet work surroundings.

Why the Carhartt Rugged Flex 6-Inch Comp Toe Work Boot is Our Top Overall Pick

The Carhartt Rugged Flex 6-Inch Comp Toe Work Boot exceeded our expectations as it stands out among its competitors. Protective toe caps and electrical hazard protection enhance safety in harsh work areas, while a comfortably flexible sole and shock-absorbent insole elevate foot comfort all day long. This boot also excels in traction, with an outsole design powerfully gripping surfaces for slip resistance. With all these features in place, the boot still looks stylish, as it doesn’t have an overly industrial vibe.

2. Best Logger – AdTec 9-Inch Crazy Horse Leather Work Boot

Overall: 8.8/10

8
9
9
9
8
10
Ideal For
  • People who prefer comfortable soft-toe logger boots
  • Tough outdoor work environments
  • Those who are looking for great value, premium logger boots

Materials

Crazy horse leather

Outsole

Rubber

Waterproof

No (water-resistant)

Safety Toe

None

Weight

2.10 lbs. / 957 grams / 34 oz

What we like

  • Durable construction
  • Comfortable
  • Recraftable sole
  • Strong traction

What we don’t like

  • No toe protection

The AdTec 9-Inch Crazy Horse Leather Work Boot performed exceptionally well in challenging outdoor conditions.

This lace-up logger boot had a premium design that felt remarkably strong, and we experienced its strength as it lasted through the most difficult tasks in outdoor settings.

We liked the water-resistant structure as it protected the foot against uncomfortable wetness while working in the rain and other environments with wet elements. Surprisingly, even if it was 9 inches tall, the boot didn’t feel too heavy – and this significantly impacted comfort.

The sole featured a thick heel that effortlessly dug into the ground for superior stability.

A More Detailed Look

Sole

The rubber sole had distinct layers that added an interesting aesthetic while performing much better than we expected.

We were impressed with the high heel and large treads as they dug powerfully into the muddy ground, preventing slipping as we navigated muddy, severely wet ground as we worked outdoors.

We discovered that screws were fitted onto the bottom of the sole, which turned out to be recraftable. This meant the boot’s life could be extended by replacing the sole when worn out.

Fit

This boot had a locked-in fit and secured the foot in place.

We appreciated the locked-in feeling as it was crucial in sustaining a stable feeling while walking on challenging ground conditions.

However, some might not feel comfortable with the boot’s snugness as it can cause pinching, especially for those with wide feet.

On the other hand, we loved the foamy cushioning inside, particularly in the heel area. The tongue was also padded and, together with the tall height, prevented debris from getting into the boot.

Also, it was easy to tighten and loosen the boot for comfort because of the lace-up design.

Build

The tall boot height delivered extended coverage against abrasion while working outdoors and in other demanding conditions.

We liked the water-resistant upper as it stopped water and other liquids from instantly seeping in.

With such a bold profile, we were happy to learn that the boot didn’t feel severely stiff, and only needed a quick break-in phase to create a comfortably flexible structure. Given its robust, tall profile, we were also surprised the boot didn’t feel too heavy.

We just hoped it had toe caps to protect against dangerous impact and compression in hazardous environments.

How the AdTec 9-Inch Crazy Horse Leather Work Boot Suits Logging and Other Tough Outdoor Tasks

The AdTec 9-Inch Crazy Horse Leather Work Boot performs exceptionally well as a logger boot. Its 9-inch height offers extended coverage to protect the feet and lower legs against wetness and abrasion in outdoor settings. A heavily lugged outsole with a 1.5-inch thick heel has strong traction for enhanced stability in muddy, sloped, or unstable terrains. The boots’ water-resistant uppers protect against wetness with minimal liquid exposure.

3. Best Toe Protection – Timberland Pit Boss Steel Toe Work Boot

Overall: 8.6/10

9
9
9
8.5
9
6.5
9
Ideal For
  • Professionals looking for extremely durable work boots
  • Hazardous work conditions
  • People who prefer heavy-duty yet comfortable work boots

Materials

Nubuck leather

Outsole

Timberland PRO rubber

Waterproof

No

Safety Toe

Yes (steel)

Weight

1803 grams / 3.98 lbs. / 64 oz

What we like

  • Steel toe protection
  • Comfortable and durable
  • Electrical hazard protection
  • Strong traction

What we don’t like

  • Not waterproof
  • Rigid sole

The Timberland Pit Boss Steel Toe Work Boot showcased the essential qualities of high-performance work footwear.

Its steel toes formed barriers that blocked heavy items, protecting the toes against severe crushing injuries while in harsh conditions.

We loved how the exclusive comfort system provided the necessary support and shock absorption for a truly comfortable boot-wearing experience throughout the day.

The robust design easily withstood the heavy beating of daily use, with the thick leather retaining its superior quality for a long time.

The electrical hazard-safe design minimized the threat of electric shock in dry conditions for increased safety in the workplace. At the same time, strong traction helped us sustain our balanced gait on tricky surfaces.

A More Detailed Look

Sole

The Timberland Pro rubber outsole’s two-tone design added an eye-catching element while performing exceptionally well.

We felt the sole’s strong grip on the surfaces we walked on, enhancing the stable feeling and helping us avoid potential slipping risks.

The sole was also resistant to abrasion and heat, so its superior quality lasted long, even in the most demanding workplaces.

It felt quite rigid, though, so it sometimes got in the way of comfortable walking.

Fit

The Timberland PRO 24/7 Comfort System provides cushioning for all-day foot comfort.

This special suspension system supported the foot’s arch throughout the day while absorbing the shock generated by continuous walking.

We fully appreciated the moisture-wicking lining that allowed the foot to breathe, preventing overheating with all-day use.

We discovered that this lining also had an antimicrobial treatment to stop unpleasant odors from developing.

The boot felt a bit larger and more comfortable and stable after downsizing, and the lace-up style also helped get the most comfortable fit.

Build

With steel toe caps in place, this boot continuously protected the foot against heavy rolling or dropping objects that can cause painful impact or compression in hazardous work environments.

We liked the extra protection from the electrical hazard-safe design as it lowered the threat of electric shock in case of accidental contact with open circuits.

The two-toned sole injected a sporty vibe into the boot, keeping it from looking extremely industrial and adding a bit of versatility. Using premium materials and sturdy construction, this boot easily withstood the heavy use and abuse of demanding conditions while maintaining superior quality.

It didn’t have waterproof materials so that we wouldn’t recommend it for wet conditions.

How the Timberland Pit Boss Steel Toe Work Boot Aces Requirements for Toe Protection

The Timberland Pit Boss Steel Toe Work Boot is constructed with steel caps that deliver maximum toe protection. It effortlessly shields the toes and prevents dangerous compression and impact, which can occur in work areas with heavy items that can accidentally fall or roll on the feet.

4. Best Tactical – Under Armour Micro G Valsetz Leather Waterproof Tactical Boot

Overall: 8.3/10

9
8
7
8
9
9
Ideal For
  • Those who are after top-notch tactical boots with a premium design
  • Wet settings or varying weather conditions
  • People looking for comfy, shock-absorbing boots

Materials

Leather

Outsole

Rubber

Waterproof

Yes

Safety Toe

None

Weight

2.2 lbs. / 998 grams / 35 oz

What we like

  • Waterproof
  • Shock-absorbing footbed
  • Reinforced toe with TPU cap
  • Premium, durable construction

What we don’t like

  • Plastic lace hooks don’t look extremely sturdy

The Under Armour Micro G Valsetz Leather Waterproof Tactical Boot was built to support the foot’s nimble movements and protect against the elements.

The waterproof construction sealed out water and other liquids and kept the foot comfortably dry.

We appreciated the addition of a TPU toe cap that offered additional protection over the toes for safety against sudden impact.

The anti-fatigue footbeds made walking much more comfortable as they absorbed the impact of hours of walking on hard ground.

This boot had a premium look and feel, resisting signs of damage even with the heavy beating from regular use.

A More Detailed Look

Sole

The high-traction outsole didn’t have the large treads synonymous with strong traction, but it didn’t disappoint when it came to stability.

We welcomed the slip-resistant sole as it helped us maintain our balance while walking in slick and muddy ground conditions.

Without the heavy treads on the bottom, the sole supported the foot’s natural movement for better comfort and agility.

However, we didn’t think the sole’s traction was powerful enough to prevent slipping on extremely challenging surfaces.

Fit

The interior was generously cushioned and felt comfortable for all-day walking.

We especially liked the ergonomically shaped footbed that supported the foot’s natural arch while soaking up the impact of walking nonstop for hours.

This footbed was enhanced with anti-odor treatment to promote a fresh, hygienic boot interior for much longer.

Meanwhile, the Micro G foam midsole delivered a bouncy feel for a high-energy return and superior comfort.

The toe box had enough space for comfortable toe wiggling, although we didn’t think it had the horizontal clearance to accommodate wide feet. We maximized the lace-up style as we loosened and tightened the boot as needed to get a more secure fit.

Build

This lace-up boot had a waterproof structure essential for tactical work in wet conditions.

The waterproof boot liner blocked water, mud, and other liquids, protecting the foot against uncomfortable wetness.

We liked the TPU toe cap that shielded the toes against accidental impact.

Thankfully, this reinforcement was made with a flexible material that didn’t hinder the foot’s ability to move freely.

The rest of the upper was just as flexible for an unhampered way of walking.

We noticed the plastic lace hooks were flimsy and may not last as long as sturdier components.

Why the Under Armour Micro G Valsetz Leather Waterproof Tactical Boot Excels for Tactical Duty

The Under Armour Micro G Valsetz Leather Waterproof Tactical Boot is built to keep the foot comfortable and moving as agilely as possible while doing tactical work. It’s flexible enough to allow the foot to move as naturally as possible for the quickest responses on the clock. A grippy outsole maintains stable footing on tricky terrains, while a waterproof structure seals out wet elements to keep the foot comfortably dry in changing weather conditions.

5. Best Style – Thorogood American Heritage Moc Toe Work Boot

Overall: 7.5/10

8
8
8
6
6
9
Ideal For
  • Working indoors where exposure to water and other liquids can be avoided.
  • Workplaces with no impact or compression threats.
  • Those who prefer a work boot that is also handsome enough to be used for dressing up.

Materials

Leather

Outsole

MAXWear Wedge

Waterproof

No

Safety Toe

None

Weight

1724 grams / 3.87 lbs. / 61 oz

What we like

  • Premium moc toe style
  • Shock-absorbent footbed
  • Made in the USA
  • Electrical hazard protection

What we don’t like

  • Not waterproof
  • Weak traction

The Thorogood American Heritage Moc Toe Work Boot stood out with its premium moc toe design – but there was so much more to it than just good looks. It looked rugged and casual simultaneously, so it seamlessly paired with work and leisure outfits.

We appreciated that this lace-up work boot was made in the USA using only the finest materials sourced locally and internationally to maintain superior quality, which we experienced with the way the boot looked and performed.

The electrical hazard-safe design lowered the risk of getting electrocuted if there was unintentional contact with live wires.

On the other hand, a shock-absorbent footbed worked hard to enhance foot comfort with the right levels of cushioning and support.

A More Detailed Look

Sole

It was evident from the start that the outsole wouldn’t feel as grippy as other slip-resistant boots.

The MAXWear Wedge outsole had an almost completely flat outer surface, so it didn’t have a secure grip on the ground we walked on.

Slipping was a constant threat, especially when we walked on slick or angled surfaces.

We liked the sole’s flexibility, though, as it didn’t limit the foot’s mobility like stiff soles.

Fit

The flexibility that we liked in the sole also extended to the upper.

We were surprised the premium leather didn’t feel stiff and easily accommodated the foot’s natural motion for better comfort.

Adjusting the boot’s fit required little effort because of the lace-up design.

The Ultimate Shock Absorption footbed soaked up the shock caused by continuous walking, protecting the foot from fatigue after hours of staying upright.

We appreciated the footbed’s open-celled design as it allowed the air to flow freely, stopping heat from building up inside the boot.

Build

This USA-made lace-up work boot was built using premium quality materials that came from local and international sources.

This moc-toe boot looked equally stylish and rugged, so it was easy to pair with workwear and outfits for leisure use.

We appreciated how the 8-inch tall boot protected the foot and calf against debris and small amounts of wetness.

The Goodyear Welt construction helped prevent water and other liquids from seeping through the upper and sole bonds.

It also made the boot eligible for resolving to prolong the footwear’s life once the sole wears out.

This boot wasn’t made with waterproof materials, so it won’t keep the foot dry in wet conditions.

How the Thorogood American Heritage Moc Toe Work Boot Outshines Others in the Style Department

The Thorogood American Heritage Moc Toe Work Boot has a moc toe style that’s versatile enough to be used on and off the worksite. The moc toe’s silhouette offers a nice change from the regular plain round-toe profile, making this boot a superb choice for those who want to inject more fashion points into their work attire.

Comparison Table

ProductUpper MaterialWaterproofSafety Toe
Carhartt Rugged Flex 6-Inch Comp Toe Work BootLeather NoYes (composite)
AdTec 9-Inch Crazy Horse Leather Work BootCrazy horse leatherNo (water-resistant)None
Timberland Pit Boss Steel Toe Work BootNubuck leatherNoYes (steel)
Under Armour Micro G Valsetz Leather Waterproof Tactical BootLeather and textileYesNone
Thorogood American Heritage Moc Toe Work BootLeatherNoNone

Features of high quality lace-up work boots

High-Quality Leather Uppers

The best lace-up work boots we chose for this list all have high-quality leather uppers. We examined the construction of these boots’ uppers using them in various work conditions to see how they would perform.

These boots used leather thick enough not to tear or break apart in normal work conditions.

We also discovered that the uppers became much more flexible and comfier to use after a decent break-in period – but didn’t compromise the functionality.

Sleek Profiles

Work boots don’t always look extremely rugged or bulky. The top lace-up work boots we selected all have sleek profiles, even with high-performance features in place.

The sleek looks result from using fine-quality materials and craftsmanship, doing away with the heavily industrial appearance and instead sticking to more streamlined silhouettes.

We used these boots in different scenarios, and they fit in easily – not sticking out like sore thumbs in certain environments.

We discovered that most, if not all, have styles that are versatile enough to be worn for leisure as well.

Comfort Features

To ensure more enjoyable boot-wearing experiences, we picked the best lace-up work boots that felt comfortable even after hours of use.

While using them on different job sites, we noticed that these boots didn’t make our feet feel too tired and uncomfortable.

This is because of the presence of components and materials that fight discomfort.

Some features include shock-absorbing heels, deeply cushioned footbeds, and flexible soles.

These aspects make walking much easier and more comfortable to manage over long periods.

Durability

The superior quality of the top lace-up work boots we chose for this list is also reflected in their durability.

We tested dozens of work boots in real-life work settings to see if they’ll be able to hold up after being used heavily, especially in tough conditions.

Our top 5 picks featured premium materials and reliable construction methods, resulting in lace-up work boots that maintained their looks and long-lasting strength for extended periods.

Easy to Adjust Fit

The lacing system in these boots makes fit adjustments a breeze.

We evaluated the lace-up work boots to select the ones that are convenient to adjust, so it’s easy to achieve a personalized fit for improved walking stability and safety.

While reviewing the lace-up work boots we’ve tried, we eventually went for the ones with straightforward lacing systems that don’t take too long to fix. We also evaluated the quality of their laces.

Conclusion

Lace-up profiles are arguably the most popular work boot styles, and you can’t go wrong with these choices. These work boots showcase different features addressing various requirements in the workplace, so it pays to know which ones you’ll need while you’re still choosing among the best product contenders. Lace-up work boots generally offer better stability than pull-on or slip-on styles, so it’s worth keeping this in mind when picking the best option possible.

FAQs

Do you need to loosen the entire lacing system to get the feet into lace-up work boots?
It depends on the boots’ designs. In general, those with stiff leather or tall heights may require most laces loosened to give the feet more space to slide in easily. On the other hand, lace-up work boots made with flexible uppers and short heights are more welcoming, so most of the time it’s only the top part of the lacing system that needs to be loosened to accommodate the feet’s entry.
Why do lace-up work boots feel more stable than pull-on styles?
The lacing system allows the fit of work boots to be adjusted until they feel snug enough to secure the feet into stable positions. This results in enhanced stability that often won’t be possible with pull-up styles that tend to feel a bit loose.
Do all lace-up work boots come in round toe designs?
No, there are some lace-up work boots with different styles – such as this list’s Thorogood American Heritage Boot with a moc toe design.
How often do the laces of lace-up work boots need to be replaced?
As often as needed – when they start to show signs of fraying or breaking.

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!

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