5 Best Work Boots For Lineman In 2023

Working as a lineman is not an easy job. They are constantly going up and down, climbing in harsh conditions. This means that they need protective footwear to protect their feet from the elements. 

In addition to being tough and durable, this footwear also needs to be comfortable, as linemen are on their feet for long periods of time.

While there are many different brands and styles of lineman boots on the market, it is important to choose a pair that will provide the best protection and support for your feet. With so many factors to consider, it can be difficult to know where to start.

Having said that, here are some of the best work boots for lineman. 

Reviews Of The Best Work Boots For Pole Climbers

#1. Chippewa Men’s 9″ Waterproof Insulated Steel-Toe Lineman Work Boot

If you’re looking for a tough, durable work boot that can handle anything you throw at it, the Chippewa Men’s 9″ Waterproof Steel-Toe Lineman Boot is a great choice. 

This work boot is designed for climbers and linemen, and it features a 3M Thinsulate Ultra insulation that will keep your feet warm in even the most extreme conditions. 

The Vibram Tacoma Logger outsole provides excellent traction and stability, while the Dri-Lex moisture management lining helps to keep your feet dry and comfortable. 

Plus, the Chip-A-Tex waterproof membrane ensures that your feet will stay dry no matter what. 

Chippewa’s Lineman work Boot also features a steel safety toe cap that meets ASTM standards for impact and compression. In addition, the boots are entirely non-conductive and EH rated; hence they are an excellent choice for workers and linemen exposed to electrical hazards. 

Lastly, the boots are also waterproof, making them ideal for work in wet or muddy conditions. Finally, the shoes are lined with a soft fabric that helps to keep feet comfortable all day long. 

Whether working on a construction site or climbing a utility pole, this boot will help you get the job done.

#2. Red Wing Men’s Iron Ranger 6″ Boot

The Iron Ranger boot from Red Wing is a high-quality, American-made product. These boots are constructed using durable stitch-down welt construction and are made from premium leather. This combination of materials ensures that the shoes will be comfortable for many years. 

In addition, the stitch-down welt construction provides additional support and durability, making these boots even more long-lasting.

The RedWing work boots are robust and handsomely detailed shoes perfect for outdoor and pole climbing. The non-marking, oil-resistant sole is ideal for any terrain and offers optimum traction on all surfaces. 

Moreover, the contrast stitching, cap toe, and elegantly polished hooks with solid metal eyelets make these work boots stand out.

Lastly, Redwing work boots are made with quality leather that is naturally waterproof and can withstand normal rain and snow conditions. In addition, the shoes are also equipped with the construction that helps to prevent water from seeping in and keeping your feet dry. 

Whether working in the rain or snow, you can feel confident that your feet will stay dry and comfortable all day long.

#3. Adtec Men’s Rugged Goodyear Welt Construction Utility Boot

I have tried many work boots in the past, and I have never found a pair that is as comfortable as these Ad Tech Men’s work boots. I have had problems with other boots digging into the back of my shin and causing pain, but these don’t do that at all. They offer plenty of support, and I can wear them all day without issues.

Furthermore, these Ad Tech Men’s work boots feature an iconic logger style along with a solid raised heel, perfect for holding gaffs or ladder rungs. Besides, the rubber outsole of these boots is also slip-resistant, making them ideal for oily conditions. 

Additionally, the padded collar and tongue provide extra comfort and support. While AD Tech work boots are affordable, the lower price comes at a cost to the design and performance. They’re not as tough or durable as some other brands on the market, and they’re not rated for electrical hazards. 

However, these might be a good choice for those looking for a lineman boot to get them from the workplace to the tower. The shoes are comfortable and lightweight, and they have a slip-resistant sole. 

If you’re working in an environment where you need a boot that can take a beating, you’ll want to look elsewhere.

#4. Ariat Groundbreaker 6″ Work Boot – Men’s Safety Toe

Next on our list we have the Ariat Groundbreaker Men’s Boots. These boots are crafted with utmost devotion and precision, making them some of the most durable and comfortable boots on the market. 

The leather uppers provide support and breathability, while the EVA midsoles offer cushioning and shock absorption. The rubber outsoles are slip-resistant and provide traction on any surface.

Moreover, these composite toe Men’s boots are an excellent choice for any hard-working man. The Duratread outsole is water, oil, and slip resistant, while the 90-degree heel offers optimum support and stability. 

Additionally, these boots are designed to provide maximum support and traction on any terrain. Another notable feature of these Ariat Groundbreaker Men’s work boots is that they feature Ariat’s 4LR technology. This technology offers additional cushioned support and stability; you can wear them for all-day-long comfort without strain or pressure. 

So whether you’re working in the construction industry or a lineman, you can rest assured that your feet will relax in these Ariat Groundbreaker work boots.

#5. Carhartt Men’s 8″ Waterproof Composite Toe Work Boots

If you work as a lineman in cold conditions, you know how important it is to have a pair of boots to keep your feet warm and dry. You’ll want to check out the Carhartt Men’s Climbing Boots. 

These work boots feature 3M Thinsulate, a microfiber that insulates by catching air molecules between you and the outside, whereas it has 400 grams of Thinsulate that allows you to work in cold conditions and ensures that your feet will stay nice and cozy all day long. 

In addition, the Carhartt Men’s Climbing Boots are waterproof and slip-resistant, so you’re sure to get a good grip on icy surfaces. These Carhartt Climbing Boots provide reliable footing and support when you need it most. 

Furthermore, the Goodyear welt construction ensures durability, while the Carhartt-exclusive rubber outsole offers oil and slip resistance for a firm grip. The boots also feature a moisture-wicking lining to keep your feet dry and an EVA insole for cushioning and support.

Whether scaling a rocky cliff face, working around wires, or simply exploring the great outdoors, Carhartt Men’s Climbing Boots will help you get there safely.

What to Consider When Choosing Lineman Boots

For anyone looking to break into the ranks of professional pole climbers, one crucial question needs to be answered: what kind of boots should I buy? It’s a tricky question, as so many factors must consider. Do you want steel-toed or composite-toed? 6-inch or 8-inch? Electrical hazard or non-electrical hazard? 

The options can be dizzying. However, some general guidelines can help.

Slip-Resistant Soles

Ask any lineman, and they’ll tell you: the job is never the same twice. One day they are working in scorching heat, the next in driving rain. They might be up on a ladder one minute and down in a manhole the next.

Linemen must have work boots with nonslip or anti-slip outsoles in many different conditions. These outsoles provide essential traction on slippery surfaces, helping to prevent slips, trips, and falls.

With so much at stake, it’s clear that nonslip outsoles are an essential part of any lineman’s safety equipment.

Materials

If you’re looking for a boot that will keep you comfortable while you scale, power poles and string wire, rubber, and leather are the way to go. Leather uppers are durable and flexible, while rubber soles provide good traction and protect against electrical hazards.

Plus, there’s nothing quite like the satisfaction of lacing up a brand-new pair of boots before heading out into the field.

Versatility 

For linemen, working in the elements is just part of the job. But that doesn’t mean they don’t deserve a good pair of work boots. Linemen need a boot to keep their feet dry and warm in all conditions. A waterproof and insulated membrane is essential to keeping their feet comfortable in all kinds of weather.

When looking for the perfect pair of work boots for a lineman, make sure they have all the features necessary to keep them comfortable and supported in any condition.

Comfort

Though not often thought of as glamorous, lineman’s boots are an essential piece of gear for anyone in the electrical trade. They need to be durable enough to stand up to harsh work conditions while providing high comfort and support.

Fortunately, several brands now offer boots designed explicitly for linemen. These boots feature cushioned footbeds and shock-absorbing midsoles, making them much more comfortable to wear than traditional work boots.

Additionally, many of these boots come with removable insoles, allowing the wearer to add or remove them depending on their comfort level.

With so many options available, there’s no excuse for not finding a pair of linemen’s boots that fits your feet and your lifestyle.

Shank

Anyone who has ever stepped on a Lego knows the importance of support. The same can be said of choosing a pair of lineman boots – shank support is critical. Linemen are constantly on their feet, and the steel shanks in these boots help to distribute their weight more evenly.

This not only helps to prevent fatigue but can also reduce the risk of injury. In addition, these shanks add rigidity to the boots, ensuring that they retain their shape even under the most extreme conditions.

So when choosing a pair of lineman boots, make sure you go for a model with plenty of shank support. Your feet will thank you for it.

Safety Toes

Anyone who has stubbed their toe knows how important it is to have strong and protected toes. For linemen who work with heavy equipment and are constantly at risk of injury, having a pair of boots with safety toes is essential.

Safety toes are hard caps inserted into the boot and cover the toe area. If a heavy item were to fall and land on the toes, the safety caps would prevent the lineman’s toes from being crushed. Steel toes are the most popular safety boots, offering the strongest protection.

No matter what material is used, safety toes provide an essential layer of protection for those who work with heavy machinery.

Elevated Heels

Anyone who has tried to pole climb in regular work boots knows the importance of raised heels. Traditional work boots are flat, which makes it difficult to get a good grip on the pole.

However, with lineman pole climbing boots with raised heels, it’s much easier to get a good grip and make your way to the top. Not only that, but the extra height also provides more leverage, making it easier to pull yourself up.

In short, buy work boots with raised heels if you’re looking for an advantage in your next pole climbing competition.

Electrical Hazard Rating

If you work with electricity, there’s a good chance you need to wear electrical hazard (EH) rated boots. These work boots protect you from shocks by providing a barrier between you and the ground.

They’re usually made of rubber or other non-conductive materials and have special soles that help dissipate electrical current.

While EH boots are not required in all workplaces, they are commonly used by linemen and workers exposed to live electrical wires.

In addition to protecting against shocks, EH boots can also help to prevent burns and other injuries. So if you work with electricity, it’s worth considering a pair of these special boots.

FAQs About Best Linemen Work Boots

You have many questions if you’re in the market for a new pair of lineman boots. How do I choose the right size? What’s the difference between waterproof and non-waterproof boots? Is it worth it to spend more on a higher-end boot?

We’ve included the following FAQ section to answer these questions (and more). So whether you’re a first-time buyer or a seasoned pro, check out our FAQs before making your final purchase decisions.

Why do linemen need special work boots?

Most people think linemen only need a good pair of boots to protect their feet while working. But, as anyone in the know will tell you, it’s not that simple.

The type of boot a lineman wears can mean the difference between a safe, productive day on the job or a trip to the ER. Most linemen today prefer work boots with steel shafts and raised heels.

Not only do these boots offer superior protection from electrical shocks and falls, but they also provide good traction for climbing poles and working on lines.

So, the next time you see a lineman atop a utility pole, take a closer look at his boots, and you’ll know why they’re such an essential part of their work gear.

Can linemen wear steel-toe work boots?

It’s a little-known fact that linemen are extremely dainty creatures. While they may look tough and burly on the outside, they’re just big ol’ softies on the inside. So it’s no wonder they require such heavy-duty footwear – after all, they wouldn’t want their precious toes to get squished.

Steel toe work boots are essential for keeping those little piggies safe, and any self-respecting lineman worth his salt will make sure to wear a pair at all times.

So the next time you see a lineman working high up on a power line, take a moment to appreciate that he’s taking such good care of his feet.

Why should I need the best lineman boots?

There’s nothing like a good pair of boots to make you feel like you can conquer the world or at least a few tall trees. Loggers and linemen have long known the importance of having the proper footwear for the job, and that’s why they often choose boots specifically designed for their needs.

These boots typically feature a sturdier construction and a more rugged sole, which helps to provide better grip and comfort when climbing poles or towers.

In addition, the higher shafts on these boots help to protect against debris and other hazards.

Whether you’re looking to log some hours in the woods or want to feel like a real-life Action Hero, investing in a good pair of logger or lineman boots will give you the boost you need.

What to consider when buying a lineman boot?

If you’re in the market for some new lineman boots, there are a few features you should keep an eye out for.

• First, look for an electrical-hazard rating. This will ensure that your boots can protect you from live electrical wires.
• Next, check for a steel shank. This will help to support your feet and prevent fatigue.
• And finally, make sure the boots have a protective safety toe. This will safeguard your toes from heavy equipment and falling debris.

Plus, raised heels are always a nice touch – they can help prevent slips and falls when working on slippery surfaces.

You will also find a comprehensive buying above in this read that contains all the necessary information about how to buy the best work boots for a lineman. If you have skipped that section keep these features in mind.

What is the ideal height of linemen’s boots?

The ideal height for a lineman boot is 9 inches or taller. This extra height provides much-needed protection for the wearer’s legs and an additional grip for climbing.

Many linemen wear gaffs (a type of spiked boot) to help them get a better purchase on slippery poles. However, some professional linemen prefer to wear 6 to 8 inches tall boots.

What are the recommended materials for lineman work boots?

There’s nothing worse than being a lineman and having your boots slip on a wet pole. Or being zapped by a live wire because your shoes aren’t non-conductive.

That’s why choosing the right materials for your lineman boots is essential. Leather and rubber are both non-conductive, so they’ll keep you safe from electrical hazards.

• Leather uppers are durable and stand up to demanding work conditions.
• Rubber soles provide a good grip in various conditions, so you won’t have to worry about slipping or sliding.

So when you’re choosing lineman boots, make sure you opt for leather and rubber – it could be the difference between life and death.

In The End:

So, which are the best lineman work boots? That’s up to you to decide. All these options offer plenty of benefits, but it ultimately comes down to what you need in a boot.

If you want something versatile and can handle multiple tasks, go with the Redwing lineman work boots.

On the other hand, if you need something more heavy-duty and rugged for harsher environments, check out the Carhartt lineman work boots.

Whichever option you choose, ensure you take care of your new work boots, so they last as long as possible.