Summary
When I first came across the Wolverine Tarmac Work Boot, I assumed that it didn’t have that much to offer when it comes to protection from certain hazards, since it looked more suited for athletic activities. While using the boots, I was pleased to discover that they delivered functionality that was way more than what I expected from looking at the footwear alone. The waterproof construction delivered superior safety against liquids that can cause damage and foot discomfort, allowing me to concentrate on my work without worrying about the wetness that may surround my work area. This boot is built to deliver maximum comfort and protection without the extra bulk and weight that can cause a dragging sensation, especially when the boot is worn for a long time. The sporty silhouette was a welcome bonus that I was able to maximize in the most demanding work environments and even after working hours as it paired remarkably well with more casual clothes.
The Wolverine Tarmac Work Boot features the proprietary CarbonMAX technology that uses a carbon fiber safety toe to keep the foot protected from objects that can fall from an elevated position onto the boot and may cause serious foot injuries. The non-metallic toe protection is much lighter than its steel counterpart, providing the boot with a lightweight structure that contributes to a more comfortable user experience. It also doesn’t conduct electricity and is resistant to extreme temperatures so you can be sure that your foot will remain comfortable as you work in different environments. A reflective material is wrapped around the midsole to deliver increased visibility that will benefit those working in low-light conditions for increased safety while dealing with demanding tasks. The rubber outsole strongly grips the ground to help prevent slipping, but at times felt a bit too rigid so it hampered some of my movements and caused discomfort, especially when I had been walking and staying on my feet for a long time. We’ll have a closer look at the boot’s features below so you can learn more about what makes it remarkable, and the components that may still benefit from fine-tuning.
When you need practical footwear that can take on challenging chores, this waterproof boot will keep your foot comfortably dry throughout the day.
Performance Analysis
Comfort
The Wolverine Tarmac Work Boot comes with a cushioned footbed that surrounds the foot with a welcoming sensation for superior comfort. This insole works just as hard to provide reliable pressure relief to prevent blisters from forming due to the friction that comes with nonstop walking and moving around for the entire day. This removable footbed followed the shape of my foot so I was able to continue my work for long hours while enjoying a comfortable feeling. The footbed seemed like it was specifically designed to match my foot’s unique anatomy. The nylon shank delivered maximum support that made it possible for me to work effortlessly over various ground conditions without sacrificing my safety, and without the additional bulk that can contribute to a heavy work boot profile. The EVA midsole is lightweight as well, so it didn’t contribute much to the total weight of the boot and worked doubly hard to absorb most of the shock coming from the repetitive movements as I dealt with numerous tasks in the work area.
The collar and tongue came with generous padding that kept my calf and instep comfortable, so I was able to focus on my work without being bothered by extreme discomfort from too much friction on these critical boot zones.
The CarbonMAX technology worked to deliver non-metallic protection throughout the boot to keep my foot safe from impact and compression threats while working double-time to maintain continuous comfort as the boot resists extreme cold and heat. This allowed me to focus on the tasks at hand even when there were unwelcome temperature changes that cannot be avoided in certain settings, such as in outdoor environments that are exposed to the elements.
Weight
This boot has a medium weight level. It wasn’t exactly lightweight, but it wasn’t so heavy that it caused serious discomfort. I believe the boot was kept from being extremely heavy because of the carbon fiber toe caps that worked to protect the foot from being crushed by objects that can accidentally fall from an elevated area on the job site – without the extreme bulk and weight that can be expected from steel toe work boots. Another component that helped the boot with maintaining a medium weight level is the nylon shank that provided continuous comfort and support without the significant weight that is associated with its metal counterpart. The strong leather upper and the thick outsoles may have balanced things out with the lightweight features, resulting in a boot that felt hefty enough to offer increased stability but wasn’t in an uncomfortably heavy weight range.
Traction
The thick rubber outsole features pronounced treads that have a firm grip on the ground, so it was quite easy to walk around without worrying about slipping accidents on different floor conditions and terrains. The hefty soles added a sense of stability that kept me walking confidently on uneven surfaces since I didn’t feel that the boot would easily slip from underneath on the tricky settings. The midsole comes with a reflective material that wraps from the sides to the back, making the boot more noticeable in low-light conditions where the increased visibility translates to enhanced safety as well, especially in the tough working conditions that can be seen on tarmacs or roads where traffic hazards can be encountered.
Fit and Sizing
These boots are true to size. I was able to enjoy a comfortable experience when I chose my usual size. They have a relaxed fit that didn’t cause any pinching on my foot even with long hours of continuous boot-wearing. The additional space within the boot enabled my toes to wiggle as necessary, so avoiding painful foot cramps was easy. Securing the fit of the boot throughout the day was also a breeze with the lace-up design that I was able to maximize when needed, allowing me to go through countless fit alterations as required to ensure stability and comfort.
Waterproofing
This boot is built with a waterproof leather upper that doesn’t permit water and other liquids to enter. This means your feet will stay dry throughout the day when you work in areas exposed to excessive moisture, such as outdoors when it is raining or when you need to walk through a muddy area. The waterproof construction gave me the confidence to focus on the job because I didn’t need to worry about getting my feet drenched when I was required to work in wet conditions.
Breathability
The interior of the boot is fitted with a special mesh lining that is enhanced with dry technology that allows air to move continuously within the boot. This makes it easier for heat and moisture to be dissolved more quickly so that the foot can be protected from overheating even when the footwear is worn for extended periods. The removable footbed is made with an open-celled material that also fights heat accumulation with a breathable structure to maintain foot comfort and dryness for the entire day.
Quality and Durability
The Wolverine Tarmac Work Boot is constructed with composite toe caps that are around half the weight of steel toes, preventing the boot from feeling too heavy, so it won’t cause a great deal of discomfort. These composite toes keep the foot protected from being badly bruised when tools, machinery, and other heavy items accidentally fall from an elevated position around the work area.
The carbon fiber material doesn’t conduct heat and is resistant to extreme temperature changes so your feet can be protected from serious discomfort when you’re working outdoors in inclement weather, and in other settings with equally harsh conditions. A reflective wrap is fixed onto the external portion of the midsole to make the boot highly noticeable, which will be a huge safety benefit in conditions where there’s low visibility – such as on airport tarmacs or on the roads at night. This midsole is designed with a lightweight profile that won’t significantly affect the total weight of the boot so it can sustain a medium weight profile that can be used comfortably for the better part of the day. A nylon shank likewise works hard to keep the boot’s weight from increasing as it does its duty to fight foot fatigue by absorbing most of the impact of the repetitive movements of your steps for hours at a time. The boot is built with waterproof leather that’s strong enough to keep up with demanding work environments and guarantees reliable protection against water and other sources of excessive moisture. The thick rubber outsole provides a sturdy base that will keep you steady as you navigate different surface conditions while you’re working on the day’s required tasks. The sole works to prevent slipping accidents as it comes with deep lugs that have a strong grip on the ground. This boot offers enhanced comfort with the help of the cushioned footbed that molds to the unique shape of your foot for personalized. It also offers secondary protection when there’s exposure to electrical hazards under dry conditions to prevent serious injuries due to electrocution.
I have some reservations regarding the plastic eyelets and lace hooks because they look a little flimsy, so I think these components can cause durability issues, especially with heavy boot use.
Other Versions
The Wolverine Tarmac Work Boot doesn’t come in other versions and is offered in a black profile with the reflective material wrapped on the sides and back for heightened visibility.
The Challengers
Wolverine Raider 6-Inch Work Steel Toe Boot
The Wolverine Raider 6-Inch Work Steel Toe Boot will work as a great alternative if you’re on the lookout for a handsome work boot that can be maximized in casual settings as much as it can work hard on the job site. The full-grain leather exudes a classy strength that can be maintained with minimal cleaning and maintenance requirements, making it possible for you to enjoy the boot’s premium performance and aesthetics for a long time. The Contour Welt construction offers the flexibility that you need to be able to move as freely as you need to without an extremely rigid material getting in the way. The exclusive MultiShox rubber outsole is resistant to abrasion, slipping, and oil to keep you steady on your feet over a variety of surfaces while ensuring that the boot is protected from premature damage when exposed to workplace hazards.
Wolverine Floorhand 6-Inch Work Boot
The Wolverine Floorhand 6-Inch Work Boot is another option that comes with a classic work boot look that may be preferred by those who like a low-key appearance without compromising comfort and safety. It’s built with steel toes for increased safety against impact and compression dangers that you may encounter. The waterproof leather upper protects your feet from getting soaked when you’re working outdoors in the rain, or even in indoor settings where you’ll be exposed to water and other liquid substances. A moisture-wicking liner disperses excess heat and moisture before these can cause extreme discomfort within the boot. The leather material comes with a premium finish that will go well with a dressy outfit for socializing after a hard day at work. A fully cushioned footbed is designed to conform to the shape of your foot for customized comfort that you can enjoy all day. The footbed also works to ease pressure points to relieve pain and prevent blisters from forming.
Columbia Newton Ridge Plus II Waterproof Hiking Boot
The Columbia Newton Ridge Plus II Waterproof Hiking Boot comes with impressive features that make it suitable for work or leisure activities in outdoor settings. The waterproof and seam-sealed structure guarantees all-day foot dryness even when you’re working in the rain or are surrounded by water or other liquids. The breathable construction allows heat to quickly disperse so that the boot’s interior can maintain a cool and comfortable condition. The lightweight midsole absorbs most of the impact resulting from repetitive movements and returns the energy for all-day support and comfort that will keep you going through the toughest activities and settings. The non-marking rubber outsole is created with deep lugs that deliver strong traction to maintain your steady stance as you walk on slippery and wet ground conditions without compromising your safety.
Under Armour Valsetz RTS 1.5 Side-Zip Tactical Boot
The Under Armour Valsetz RTS 1.5 Side-Zip Tactical Boot is a superb choice that will easily keep up with your mobility requirements on and off the field. It comes with a lightweight and sporty profile that almost feels like an athletic sneaker more than a tactical boot, allowing you to move as quickly as you need to without the extra weight to drag down on your feet. The side zipper is fitted into place for increased convenience that will allow you to wear and take off the boot rapidly so you can cut the prep time and start on your duty sooner. An exclusive ankle support system follows the shape of your ankle to keep it supported and protected from unwanted movement as you deal with the most physically challenging parts of your job. An antimicrobial sock liner keeps the boot’s interior fresh by fighting odor-causing bacteria so that your feet will feel and smell fresh even when you’ve been wearing the boot for the better part of the day. The rubber lug outsole offers strong traction on wet and uneven surface conditions to prevent slipping, while the toe cap keeps the toe area protected from damage without compromising the boot’s flexibility.
Timberland PRO Hypercharge 8-Inch Composite Toe Waterproof Boot
The Timberland PRO Hypercharge 8-Inch Composite Toe Waterproof Boot is an excellent option if you’re looking for a boot that offers increased protection against workplace hazards. The higher shaft height covers more of your calf area and protects it from the elements as well as other threats that may lurk in the environment you’re working in. The waterproof membrane keeps water from entering and is also resistant to blood-borne pathogens for a higher level of protection in various work settings. The composite toe protection keeps the foot protected when there’s exposure to compression and impact dangers while working hard to maintain a lightweight profile that won’t contribute much to the total boot weight. This boot offers a secondary layer of protection when exposed to live electrical currents in dry conditions. A heel-locking structure ensures that the heel is secured in place to maintain your stability on tricky or uneven ground conditions, while the anti-fatigue technology absorbs most of the impact from your steps and returns the energy for long-lasting comfort.
Conclusion & Verdict
The Wolverine Tarmac Work Boot will effortlessly keep your foot protected from safety hazards. The composite safety toes form a protective barrier to guard against impact and compression dangers without the additional weight that can make the boot uncomfortable. A reflective wrap increases visibility in low-light conditions for increased safety in the workplace while the waterproof upper stops water and other liquids from entering the boot. The thick soles offer strong traction and can resist damage from heavy usage, although the plastic lace hooks don’t look that sturdy and may succumb to breakage before long.
