Just like helmets and gloves, work boots are also a crucial part of the safety equipment. Professionals in the field of engineering, manufacturing, and construction have to rely on them to protect their feet against unwanted contact with chemicals, falling objects, and electricity.
Considering the harsh environments professionals are exposed to every day, the work boots need to be durable. And because durability comes at a price, you will never want your pair to give up after a couple of months!
So, how long do work boots last?
They don’t last forever obviously because everything has to come to an end at some point. But, don’t get disheartened yet. If you want to find the answer, keep reading!
How Long Do Work Boots Last?
Typically, a well-constructed pair of work boots last about three years before they need to be replaced. But you can’t assume that for your new work boots because longevity depends on several factors like usage, maintenance, and the climate. If you take care of your boots after every use, they might last longer.
How Long Should Work Boots Last?
Work boots should last anywhere between one year and three years. Although you’ll find many people claiming that theirs have lasted about a decade, that’s mainly because they have rebuilt the boots to make them look new.
Over time, the exterior material and the interior components responsible for providing safety begin to wear out. Wearing such boots puts you at a greater risk of injury in the workplace as they will fail to give you the utmost protection.
Not only that but also your productivity will decrease since you’ll be worrying about your footwear’s condition more than what you’re doing.
If you ever see any signs of wear or damage in your work boots, we recommend you replace them as soon as possible. Your safety comes foremost!
What Work Boots Last The Longest?
According to numerous users, work boots made by the well-known brand, Thorogood, last longer than most brands. They manufacture their work boots using premium-quality materials while ensuring comfort. Although the boots come at a higher price tag, they are durable, and you won’t feel as if you’re carrying pounds on your feet.
How Do I Make My Work Boots Last Longer?
Regardless of the brand and type of work boots you have, it is essential that you take good care of them to increase longevity. Here’s what you can do.
Clean And Maintain Your Work Boots Regularly
Purchase a good shoe cleaning brush and use it to brush your work boots after every use. Doing so regularly will eliminate the accumulation of dirt and mud that would otherwise ruin the surface material of your boots, especially if they’re made out of leather. Make sure not to rub too hard because it can cause damage.
If there are stains, you will need to clean them by applying soapy water to the area and then wiping them off using a dry cloth. If that doesn’t work then you can try applying cornstarch, let it rest for a few hours, and then wipe it with a wet cloth.
For scratches, you will need to apply some coconut oil to the area and gently rub over the marks. In order to keep your work boots in good condition, you can try massaging them with boot oil once every two weeks.
Use Water And Stain Repellant
As water comes into contact with leather, it leaves a stain and also causes the stitching of your work boots to wear out quickly. So, when you purchase a new pair of work boots, spraying them with good water and stain repellant will give extra protection.
Dry Your Work Boots
Whenever your work boots get wet, dry them under a ceiling fan or with the cold air setting of a hairdryer. Make sure not to expose your boots to heat as doing so can increase the chances of cracking.
Store Your Work Boots Properly
Proper storage of your work boots is also essential if you want them to last long. It is recommended you store them in a cool, dry place away from heat and sunlight. Don’t put them in enclosed areas, such as cabinets, as doing so can cause the material to wear out.
Resole Your Work Boots If Necessary
If you find the insole of your work boots deteriorating, it’s time to either invest in another pair or resole the old one. You should do either of them because it’s your work boots that protect your feet from injury.
If you want to repair or resole your work boots, we recommend you choose a trusted person to whom you can leave your precious boots for the job.
How Long Do Leather Boots Last?
The longevity of leather boots depends on the quality of the leather they are constructed of as well as usage.
Typically, low-quality leather boots can last a minimum of six months of regular use. Those that are of high quality can last really long if you take care of them properly and don’t expose them to harsh environments often.
Interestingly, back in 2008, a group of archaeologists discovered a 5,500-year-old leather shoe in a cave in Armenia. The shoe is said to be found in pristine condition and it is known as the world’s oldest leather shoe.
How Long Do Timberland Boots Last?
The longevity of Timberland boots depends on the model. For example, regular Timberland boots can last about five years, while the traditional Timberland boots, also known as the “Original Yellow Boot”, are said to last for a decade or more.
Is American Made Work Boots Long Lasting?
Generally, work boots made in the US tend to last longer because trained professionals make them with high-quality materials. Some examples of American brands that make long-lasting work boots are Thorogood, Red Wing, Chippewa, and Danner.
Top 5 Longest Lasting Work Boots
You’re not purchasing work boots only to find them giving up sooner than you expected. But there are plenty of work boots out there, so how can you tell which one will last long?
No need to worry, because here we have listed our top 5 picks that you can check out!
EVER BOOTS “Tank” Men’s Full Grain Leather Work Boots
Ever Boot is a brand loved by many people for its comfortable range of work boots that don’t necessarily need to be broken in.
The “Tank” men’s leather work boots are one of them. These leather boots are designed to give you comfort regardless of how long you stay in your workplace. They also deliver excellent maneuverability because the rubber outsole prevents you from slipping and supports the arch of your feet.
Since the boots are made of nubuck leather with reinforced stitches, you can rest assured that they will last pretty long!
ROCKROOSTER AK227 Work Boots for Men
Rockrooster is also another good brand that makes comfortable, yet sturdy work boots.
The AK277 work boots are made of nubuck leather that ensures more durability compared to suede. Not only that, but the TPU outsole allows you to walk with confidence without worrying about slipping. It resists both water and oil.
For the utmost comfort, these boots are equipped with CoolMax and Poron XRD materials that keep your feet cool at hot temperatures and insulated at colder temperatures.
Wolverine Legend Men’s Work Shoe
Wolverine is a popular footwear brand that aims to deliver high-quality footwear that will outlast most competitors.
This particular work boot by the brand is constructed of full-grain leather that resists water to prevent damage on the surface. With every step, you will find comfort because the boots have adequate cushioning in the heel. There are also compression pads for absorbing shock. You can freely walk on any surface without worrying about slipping as the rubber outsole offers a firm grip.
Skechers Sergeants Verdict Men’s Boot
Next up is Skechers. This is a reputable brand known for its wide range of high-quality footwear made for people of all ages.
The Sergeants Verdict is a great pair of work boots that protects your feet while letting you stand comfortably all day long. They are made of waterproof leather to keep your feet dry. Plus, the insole features memory foam to provide adequate arch support and minimize pressure on the balls of the feet.
You don’t have to worry about this pair wearing out easily because the seams are reinforced to hold the boots well!
Thorogood American Heritage Work Boots For Men
Last but not least, Thorogood is known to manufacture footwear that lasts longer than most brands.
The American Heritage work boots are one of them. These boots are made of full-grain leather with storm-welted construction that gives extra protection against moisture. The outsole is designed to absorb impact and resist slipping so that you can walk freely on whichever surface your job requires.
Overall, these work boots will last really long considering the built quality.
Final Words
Not all work boots have the same lifespan because they undergo different manufacturing processes. Some are made of high-quality materials, while others are made of cheaper ones. Since you’re paying a hefty sum for the boots, it’s natural that you will expect superior construction that will last as long as possible!
Apart from construction, how frequently you wear your work boots and how well you treat them also contribute to longevity. It is possible to extend the longevity of your boots if you always keep them in tip-top condition.
So, how long do work boots last? Hopefully, you’ve found your answer after reading this guide!
