Whether you’re doing a physical job on a job site or doing some kind of manual labor around your home, it’s crucial to have a good pair of work boots. For physical jobs, protective footwear is not an option; it’s a must-have.
Choosing not to wear the right work boot would open up to foot injuries, turned and twisted ankles, and penetrations through the soles by broken glass, nails, screws, and more. With this in mind, then the idea of buying a top-notch work boot is readily apparent.
Once you understand the importance of quality work boots, then you’ve to select a pair that suits your working needs. This article will help you find the most affordable work boots that will only cost you under $100.
Types of Working Boots
Steel Toe Cap Boots
These boots include additional protective reinforcement in the toe area, which is made of steel. It offers high safety, mainly in the lower part of your feet. The boots protect your feet from falling obstacles or objects such as pointed and sharp tools. Additionally, the midsole is joined with the toe area to protect your shoes from getting pierced or punctured from below.
Soft Toe Cap Boots
These non-protective work boots are suitable for working on slippery, wet surfaces, and areas with electric hazards risks. If your job profile is comfortable, flexible, and involves mobility, these men’s work boots suit you. It’s also a perfect choice for workers who deal with electrical cables and components.
Composite Toe Boots
These work boots meet all ANSI standards. They are built with non-metallic components such as plastic, rubbers, carbon, fiberglass, and others. They are best for work areas with a high risk of shock and electric hazard. These work boots are lightweight, shockproof, and comfortable. They are also budget-friendly and offer middle-level safety but are resistant to environmental damages.
Who Needs Work Boots?
The people who need work boots are usually those who:
- Do a lot of long-distance climbing, walking, or hiking
- Do their jobs in construction sites or other types of physical or manual labor
- Are on the go for many hours at a time
- Need a stronger footwear design that’s not found in other types of shoes
- Work or walk in damp, messy, muddy, or swampy grounds
Work Boots under 100 Buying Guide
There are many brands in the market that have put their efforts into designing and improving the quality of their work boots. But, how do you get the best work boot under $100? Before adding a work boot to the cart, here are some considerations that will get you your dream work boot.
Sole Material
Sole is classified as rubber outsole, TPU outsole, and EVA midsole.
- Rubber Outsole: This is oil, abrasion, and slip-resistant. It’s suitable for people working in manufacturing and construction environments.
- TPU Outsole: It comes with a sturdy material that’s resistant to chemicals and abrasions. The soles are durable and lightweight.
- EVA Midsole: It’s lightweight, flexible, and gives your feet full support all day long. It also has sufficient cushioning that offers comfort when working.
Break-in Period
This is the time needed to get comfortable with your boots. Every work boot has its own break-in time. This is a crucial factor to consider since some boots take a while, leading to frustration and stress.
Durability
What is a pair of work boots without durability? The price of the boots does not matter if they cannot serve you for a long time. In fact, this is the main complaint regarding work boots. The right work boots should have durable laces, reliable construction, and outsole that can withstand the environment. When buying a pair of work boots, make sure they are made of materials that can withstand mud, friction from cement, mud, and other elements in your workplace.
Protection
This is the best thing a pair of work boots can offer. Protection comes from features like non-slip outsoles, shock-resistant materials, waterproof fabric, steel toes, and other safety components.
To make sure chosen affordable work boots can save you from any mishaps at work, you can use various methods to test their safety. For instance, you walk on a slippery surface and see whether the boots will give you the traction you need.
Comfort
When comfort is compromised, you are likely to perform less efficiently and effectively. Instead of working, your attention will be shifted to how uncomfortable your boots are. Having a comfortable pair of boots will shield you from accidents and injuries.
To check if your pair of boots are comfortable, look for features like mesh fabric materials or soft leather, cushioned insoles, ergonomic design, and customizable fit.
Boot Weight
If your job involves moving around for long hours, then you don’t need a boot that adds extra weight to your feet. For this reason, you should go for lightweight work boots.
Breathability
If you work in scorching environments, then your work boots should not compromise breathability. High temperatures usually make your feet uncomfortable and sweaty. Always make sure your chosen work boots are breathable to enhance a healthy flow of air.
Best Work Boots under 100 Reviews
Timberland PRO Men’s 6″ Pit Boss Steel-Toe
If you’re looking for the best steel toe boots under $100 with set standards for durability, this is an ideal choice. The Timberland PRO Men’s 6″ Pit Boss Steel-Toe has excellent protection standards, craftsmanship, and durability that make it suitable for outdoor use. The work boot is constructed with 100% genuine leather with a rubber sole. The leather material ensures perfect durability despite being very tough.
The Timberland PRO comes with a steel toe that’s ideal for offering protection against falling objects and hard obstacles. Although it has a steel toe cap, this does not compromise its comfort on the inside. It has excellent electric hazard protection and keeps you safe from open electric circuits. What’s more, this work boot boasts slip, abrasion, and oil-resistance and has great traction regardless of the type of surface.
Features
- Rubber sole material
- 5.5 inches shaft height
- 100% genuine leather
- Steel toe cap
Pros
- Electrical hazard protection
- Superb traction
- Padded collar
- Genuine leather making it durable
- Reduced foot fatigue
Cons
- Some users complain of a poorly sewn seam in the back
Maelstrom Men’s Tac Force Military Tactical Work Boots
The Maelstrom Men’s Tac Force Military Tactical Work Boots is an ideal choice for industrial professionals and outdoor workers looking for comfort, dependable performance, and lightweight design. This work boot is a classical tactical design that provides durability and comfort at a pocket-friendly price point.
The Maelstrom Men’s Tac boots are ready-to-wear and do not need any breaking point. It comes with a rugged rubber outsole designed with deep threads to offer maximum traction on most surfaces.
Features
- Rubber outsole
- Synthetic sole material
- 8-inch shaft height
- YKK heavy-duty side zipper
- Full-grain leather and nylon upper
Pros
- Available in multiple colors and styles
- Durable rubber outsole
- Removable and shock-absorbent cushion alert
- Proven comfort and durability
- Waterproof
- An all-terrain work boot
Cons
- The top of the boot is quite open
- Fragile laces
- The leather feels thinner
EVER BOOTS “Tank Men’s Soft Toe Oil Full Grain Leather Work Boots
The Tank Men’s Work Boots are among the best work boots made by Ever Boots. This is an all-purpose boot that gives you the comfort and durability you need in your workplace. This work boot features high-quality materials that will last you for years. These boots come in a variety of sizes from 6-13 sizes.
The lace-up type of boot comes with both speedy hook and metal eyelets as the lacing system. It has a removable and cushioned outsole portion and outsole that’s made of slip-resistant rubber. The construction materials of this boot are oil-resistant and enhance the boot’s longevity by preventing the damage caused by oil.
Features
- Full Grain Nubuck leather upper
- Rubber outsole
- Speedy hooks
- 7” shaft height
- Lace-up closure type
Pros
- Comfortable and easy to wear
- All-purpose work boot
- Lightweight
- Water-resistant
Cons
- The construction is not very durable
Skechers for Work Men’s Soft Stride Canopy Slip Resistant Work Boot
This work boot comes with top-class materials, which include fabric and leather. It has a leather and fabric upper while the toe-cap is made of a composite material. The Skechers for Work Men’s Soft Stride Canopy Slip Resistant Work Boot comes with a lace-up closure system that helps you customize it to your desired fit. What’s more, it has a padded collar that offers additional comfort and a tongue that adds support.
Features
- Rubber sole material
- 1” platform height
- Lightly textured leather upper
- Memory foam footbed
Pros
- Durable and highly cushioned
- Comfortable fit
- Excellent sip resistance
- Excellent breathability
- Shock-absorbing midsole
Cons
- Doesn’t provide the same amount of cushion
KEEN Utility Men’s Lansing Mid Steel Toe Waterproof Work Boot
This lightweight work boot is specially constructed to improve foot and minimize the impact. It comes with a unique design that gives you room for flexing and toe movement. Its ergonomic footbed has a comfortable fit and maintains its natural shape for a long time. It also has a long padded tongue and collar that offers a snug fit. What’s more, the mesh panels keep moisture away hence maintaining dry feet.
Features
- 5.5 inches shaft height
- Rubber sole material
- Electrical Hazard rated
- 100% leather
Pros
- Padded tongue and collar
- Improved breathability with mesh linings
- Durable, safe, and comfortable
- Oil and slip-resistant
- waterproof
Cons
- it can slip momentarily marble or cemented floor
Conclusion
The right work boots under $100 with the right footwear technology will help you work and walk safely and confidently. Remember, you need your feet in all your activities. Therefore, never take them for granted and always make sure you choose the best work boots for working. Cheers!
