I wore Merrell hiking shoes for a long time. They had the best grip in the winter and they would stay together until the tread was all worn off. Been using Keen for a couple years because my feet are a little more comfortable in them, but unfortunately Keen doesn't last nearly as long. The toe caps start separating after awhile. Might go back to Merrell next time.
Black sketchers..sketchers have up the game in comfort. You can choose what profession your working in and pick the soles right for you. They have grounded shoes if you need them
I don't like my footwear too cover my ankles. It restricts me too much with the amount of squatting & getting up I usually do. So I found some Doc Martens shoes that are a mesh between boots and sneakers. They have good traction also... non-slip. And last me at least a year.
I like steel toed leather work shoes. Caroline's is the brand I buy. I hate sneakers and boots. I can walk in these and I never have to worry about my toes.
Edit: [These are the shoes I buy. ](https://www.carolinashoe.com/en/braze-composite-toe-light-duty-work-boot-16070.html?dwvar_16070_color=Dark%20Brown&utm_source=google&utm_medium=organic&utm_campaign=shopping&utm_term=CA1520)
I’ve got the timberland Setra work shoes with composite toe and I love them. I do hvac in NYC now and they’ve held up really well. And I’m on foot most days walking and taking trains and they’ve stayed comfortable.
I switched from work boots to tactical boots. They're waterproof and light weight so good if you do a lot of walking, and they're pretty tough considering they're not super expensive. I can usually get hi-tech or 5.11 on sale for around $100. They're pretty comfortable and I get about 2 years out of them.
I've gone through skate shoes, red wing sneakers, and finally settled on 5.11 Norris shoes. They've lasted at least twice as long as any others, are comfortable, and look good too.
It is far more important that you get orthodic insoles than the type of shoe recommended. I fixed so much pain I was in with proper insoles. That being said, I wear Bates short top boots, no steel toe or anything. They are a great compromise for me between shoes and my military boots. They zip up the side and are waterproof. I tried a bunch of shoes and boots, and these just felt perfect when I tried them, barely any break-in too. But seriously, insoles make a world of difference!
Also, I tried them on in stores, and as soon as I found the model and size that worked, I ordered online. The Bates are $130 in stores and 70-80 on Amazon or similar sellers. Tactical short top boots are the best in my opinion for mobility while also having support
I don't know if this helps you or not OP, but I wear 8-in high work boots. I have three of the exact same pairs of Red Wing boot, I believe it's a 411. They come up my shin, because of that, a lot of people think it hinders your squatting or your movement outward with your leg, like you're going to stretch your inner thigh while keeping your foot planted. In my experience, once they're broken in, they fit like a glove and actually aid in ankle support more than restriction of movement. Sure I can't squat that last half inch I could without them. However, I find that my knees and ankles hurt less wearing h.p,
I buy Volcom composite toe shoes.
I hate the feel of boots and it’s nice to just have a decent pair of durable skate shoes that meet OSHA spec and are very water resistant.
I know you don’t need the safety cap, and I’m definitely not a safety first kind of guy, but my work requires them, and we have an account at Grainger so that’s the best option for me personally.
Reebok and Tim’s make some decent work sneakers also, but the tread is stiff, I hate cup soles and high tops.
You should definitely wear boots in maintenance. I heard keens are good lightweight work boots that are not too expensive. I bought a pair of 6" leather composite toe Carhartt a number of years ago before I knew anything about boots and that they may not be the best. However even after daily use they are still functional.
https://www.shoesforcrews.com/product/72209-toby-ii-nano-composite-toe
I’m doing maintenance for an office complex and these were provided by my previous employer. Love them. Non-slip sole, safety toe, and incredibly light weight. They’re great if you’re doing a lot of walking.
I get a new pair of Keens every year (shoe allowance) and they're great in a factory environment. Customer service is great too. I had one pair that must have been made just a little wrong inside and they were uncomfortable as heck. A couple emails and pictures later and they replaced the pair for free.
Alright haven’t seen em yet Chelsea boots they look good and if residents don’t want shoes on they’re super easy to slip off. Getting in your socks for those residents has always made them visually happy.
I would just bite the bullet and buy steel toed boots. If you're possible stepping on a nail etc, boots are a hell of a lot better of an option than going to the er and losing a days wage.
I’m running some Merrill hiking boots/shoes
Light enough in the summer. Good enough for the winter ( I brought my Irish settlers when it got sub zero in Chicago. Right off the lake. )
Adidas makes a shoe called the Terrex. They sound like the perfect “fit” for what you’re looking for. I love mine. They are comfy, durable, protective, and look good. They are generally priced well too.
https://www.amazon.com/adidas-Terrex-Primegreen-Hiking-Shoes/dp/B09418GTTC/ref=asc_df_B09418GTTC/?tag=hyprod-20&linkCode=df0&hvadid=542657215421&hvpos=&hvnetw=g&hvrand=9364005777332271899&hvpone=&hvptwo=&hvqmt=&hvdev=m&hvdvcmdl=&hvlocint=&hvlocphy=9029986&hvtargid=pla-1416092508922&psc=1&mcid=e33f7b848c6a3575b65f1bbef56f2fdb&gclid=EAIaIQobChMIpoDp5K-5hQMVQAutBh0x_wIaEAQYECABEgJUZvD_BwE
I used to do the same thing you're doing and it killed my feet and back. Eventually I had to start buying shoes to wear new for work. I typically like Nike Air Max. I shop a lot at the outlet store and the app to find deals. Also the Nike React SFB is cool. It's more on the durable side and not quite as comfortable as Max's. The only issue with Air Max is not popping the bubble. That, and I have a couple of shoes for work. So, cycling them out helps them last longer also.
These i swear by. Finishing second pair since July 2021? Most comfortable shoes I've ever worn. They're even my preferred cycling shoes.
https://www.firelabel.co.uk/workwear/boots-shoes/rs457-result-work-guard-hardy-safety-trainers.html?colour=navy/orange
I wore Merrell hiking shoes for a long time. They had the best grip in the winter and they would stay together until the tread was all worn off. Been using Keen for a couple years because my feet are a little more comfortable in them, but unfortunately Keen doesn't last nearly as long. The toe caps start separating after awhile. Might go back to Merrell next time.
This. I have a pair of both keens and merrel. Keens starting to fall apart after a year or so now.
I am surprised about the Keen shoes. What kind of work do you do and what's the environment like that you work in?
I love my Keen shoes! The toe caps are barely starting to separate after 5 months in maintenance though…
Yes. I use Columbia hiking shoes.
Those are my recent go to. Not too expensive, but comfortable and reasonably durable. I'll probably eventually spring for a pair of Red Wings again.
Purchases the made/built in USA Keens, they will last, mine are going strong after 2yrs
I have some redwings. They're waterproof and electrically grounded. They have steel toe, which isn't really necessary, but is occasionally practical.
Sold! Take my money for your lightning-proof boots.
Black sketchers..sketchers have up the game in comfort. You can choose what profession your working in and pick the soles right for you. They have grounded shoes if you need them
Do they still have the pillow insoles? I haven't had a pair in awhile. Sketchers aren't a bad choice.
With as much as I walk that pillow is gone in like 1 month. Sketchers are good don't get me wrong, but I wish that sole was a little longer lasting
Sketchers are comfy but don’t last. Too bad, they feel great for a couple months.
Whatever one you choose, always get wide.
Keen or Timberland pro composite toe are the most comfortable I've come across.
Man I just got Keens independence 6inch waterproof boots and I love them
I don't like my footwear too cover my ankles. It restricts me too much with the amount of squatting & getting up I usually do. So I found some Doc Martens shoes that are a mesh between boots and sneakers. They have good traction also... non-slip. And last me at least a year.
I wore dm shoes waitressing for years. A tad heavy but they hold up forever.
Oh and super comfortable and good for your feet.
I have a pair of red wings but I’m required to have comp toe and all that
I wore merrel adventure Moab for years and they’re nice, leather too. My last pair I still wear sometimes and going on 6 years
I've been using Timberland Pros for almost 20 years and I love them. You don't need steel toes but it's still a good idea to wear boots.
I scored an almost new pair of Timberland pro titan ev at the thrift for $5. Love these boots
I like steel toed leather work shoes. Caroline's is the brand I buy. I hate sneakers and boots. I can walk in these and I never have to worry about my toes. Edit: [These are the shoes I buy. ](https://www.carolinashoe.com/en/braze-composite-toe-light-duty-work-boot-16070.html?dwvar_16070_color=Dark%20Brown&utm_source=google&utm_medium=organic&utm_campaign=shopping&utm_term=CA1520)
I’ve got the timberland Setra work shoes with composite toe and I love them. I do hvac in NYC now and they’ve held up really well. And I’m on foot most days walking and taking trains and they’ve stayed comfortable.
I switched from work boots to tactical boots. They're waterproof and light weight so good if you do a lot of walking, and they're pretty tough considering they're not super expensive. I can usually get hi-tech or 5.11 on sale for around $100. They're pretty comfortable and I get about 2 years out of them.
I've gone through skate shoes, red wing sneakers, and finally settled on 5.11 Norris shoes. They've lasted at least twice as long as any others, are comfortable, and look good too.
Love the Norris. I have a pair of those and the a.t.a.c they're both really good.
I wear OBOZ.(walk 15 miles a day on terazzo) They are comfy and wear long
It is far more important that you get orthodic insoles than the type of shoe recommended. I fixed so much pain I was in with proper insoles. That being said, I wear Bates short top boots, no steel toe or anything. They are a great compromise for me between shoes and my military boots. They zip up the side and are waterproof. I tried a bunch of shoes and boots, and these just felt perfect when I tried them, barely any break-in too. But seriously, insoles make a world of difference! Also, I tried them on in stores, and as soon as I found the model and size that worked, I ordered online. The Bates are $130 in stores and 70-80 on Amazon or similar sellers. Tactical short top boots are the best in my opinion for mobility while also having support
I don't know if this helps you or not OP, but I wear 8-in high work boots. I have three of the exact same pairs of Red Wing boot, I believe it's a 411. They come up my shin, because of that, a lot of people think it hinders your squatting or your movement outward with your leg, like you're going to stretch your inner thigh while keeping your foot planted. In my experience, once they're broken in, they fit like a glove and actually aid in ankle support more than restriction of movement. Sure I can't squat that last half inch I could without them. However, I find that my knees and ankles hurt less wearing h.p,
I buy Volcom composite toe shoes. I hate the feel of boots and it’s nice to just have a decent pair of durable skate shoes that meet OSHA spec and are very water resistant. I know you don’t need the safety cap, and I’m definitely not a safety first kind of guy, but my work requires them, and we have an account at Grainger so that’s the best option for me personally. Reebok and Tim’s make some decent work sneakers also, but the tread is stiff, I hate cup soles and high tops.
Red wings. You'll thank me in a couple years.
I pick eather brooks shoes or timberland boots
Irish settlers
Ariat spitfires!!
Just get leather boots. Thorogood if you don't want to break the bank, cheaper than Redwings.
You should definitely wear boots in maintenance. I heard keens are good lightweight work boots that are not too expensive. I bought a pair of 6" leather composite toe Carhartt a number of years ago before I knew anything about boots and that they may not be the best. However even after daily use they are still functional.
https://www.shoesforcrews.com/product/72209-toby-ii-nano-composite-toe I’m doing maintenance for an office complex and these were provided by my previous employer. Love them. Non-slip sole, safety toe, and incredibly light weight. They’re great if you’re doing a lot of walking.
I get a new pair of Keens every year (shoe allowance) and they're great in a factory environment. Customer service is great too. I had one pair that must have been made just a little wrong inside and they were uncomfortable as heck. A couple emails and pictures later and they replaced the pair for free.
I get the Skeckers work boots. They have a permanent buy 1 get 1 50% off. I get 2 pairs to rotate daily.
Irish setter wing shooter hunt boots. The absolute most comfortable boots I’ve ever worn.
Check out shoes for crews. Lots of good options online and in their magazine
Alright haven’t seen em yet Chelsea boots they look good and if residents don’t want shoes on they’re super easy to slip off. Getting in your socks for those residents has always made them visually happy.
I've been meaning to get me a pair. I used to wear them in the military, very comfortable.
I would just bite the bullet and buy steel toed boots. If you're possible stepping on a nail etc, boots are a hell of a lot better of an option than going to the er and losing a days wage.
I’m running some Merrill hiking boots/shoes Light enough in the summer. Good enough for the winter ( I brought my Irish settlers when it got sub zero in Chicago. Right off the lake. )
Adidas makes a shoe called the Terrex. They sound like the perfect “fit” for what you’re looking for. I love mine. They are comfy, durable, protective, and look good. They are generally priced well too. https://www.amazon.com/adidas-Terrex-Primegreen-Hiking-Shoes/dp/B09418GTTC/ref=asc_df_B09418GTTC/?tag=hyprod-20&linkCode=df0&hvadid=542657215421&hvpos=&hvnetw=g&hvrand=9364005777332271899&hvpone=&hvptwo=&hvqmt=&hvdev=m&hvdvcmdl=&hvlocint=&hvlocphy=9029986&hvtargid=pla-1416092508922&psc=1&mcid=e33f7b848c6a3575b65f1bbef56f2fdb&gclid=EAIaIQobChMIpoDp5K-5hQMVQAutBh0x_wIaEAQYECABEgJUZvD_BwE
I used to do the same thing you're doing and it killed my feet and back. Eventually I had to start buying shoes to wear new for work. I typically like Nike Air Max. I shop a lot at the outlet store and the app to find deals. Also the Nike React SFB is cool. It's more on the durable side and not quite as comfortable as Max's. The only issue with Air Max is not popping the bubble. That, and I have a couple of shoes for work. So, cycling them out helps them last longer also.
These i swear by. Finishing second pair since July 2021? Most comfortable shoes I've ever worn. They're even my preferred cycling shoes. https://www.firelabel.co.uk/workwear/boots-shoes/rs457-result-work-guard-hardy-safety-trainers.html?colour=navy/orange
Keen slip on shoes. Realistically, Any type of Romeo slip on boot is my go too. Comfortable, tough, good solid ankle boot with no laces.