15 Best Lineman Boots Reviews 2020

Read my article about the top 15 best lineman boots 2020. I also included a buying guide outlining the most important features for a quality lineman boot. Check it out.

It is never easy to be a lineman for every day you are putting your life at risk from electrocution, slipping, or worse is falling off towards the ground. Before you go for work, it is best to wear proper attire and personal protective equipment.

Moreover, choosing the right lineman boots is essential for it supplements your movement and safety while being on top of those electrical posts. If you are looking for the best lineman boots 2020, then you can check my list below.

I also have a quick buying guide in the last section showing the important features for a good quality lineman tactical boot. Enjoy reading!

Best Lineman Boots Comparison Chart

Lineman boots are created for walkers that frequently climb ladders. It must have sufficient ankle support, foot support that strengthens the upper and lower leg. They are often 12″ to 16″ tall and thicker shank.

The table below summarizes the top 15 best lineman boots that I’m going to review:

Top 15 Best Lineman Boots Reviews in 2020

Here you are going to see my rundown list of the best linemen boots in the market. Check out each one and maybe you can find the right working boots for your job and electrical works.

Best for Overall: Wesco 10” Lineman Boots

Product specs

Material	Full-grain leather
Shaft	Steel
Insole	Padded foam
Outsole	Vibram sole
Toe Box	Composite toe

Key features

• Rigid rubber outsole
• 8” shaft
• Full-grain leather
• Steel shanks
• Steel metal side plate

The first thing you would notice from this tactical boot would be its rich dark brown full-grain leather. A very classic and mesmerizing design that has good contrast with its golden yellow lace and eyelet.

The 8-inch leather shaft of this lineman boot provides great support for your ankle and leg. It also has a false removable tongue which gives added cover on the front area of your toe box. This boot can completely support your balance because of its steel shank which helps relieve the load on your arch and calves.

Likewise, in climbing over the posts, you can expect better support because of its steel heel breastplate. The Vibram sole of this boot also gives a strong hug on all kinds of surfaces. No slipping when you are wearing this one as it has a reliable anti-skid feature.

Runner Up: Kenetrek Lineman Boot

Product specs

Material	Leather
Shaft	N/A
Insole	Foam
Outsole	Vibram sole
Toe Box	Composite toe

Key features

• Full-grain leather upper
• Fast lace mechanism
• Cool and breathable leather lining
• Vibram sole
• Hard nylon or plastic side plate

When I got a glimpse of this lineman boot, its shoelace system and rugged outsole caught my attention. You can quickly tighten the hug around your ankle and calves with this fast lace system. The hardware or eyelet has good contrasting color with its brown full-grain leather upper.

It has a padded collar and tongue which soothes your foot every time you wear this on and off. The hard plastic on the sides of the boot runs round from the toe area towards the heel. This adds extra anti-abrasion protection and insulation from the static current.

The thickness of its Vibram outsole exudes excellent insulation against electric shocks and bumps from running or walking on various terrain. It has a good quality leather upper which is coated with PU for better resistance against water. Moreover, the cushioned insole adds more comfort, great for linemen, and other outdoor jobs.

Best for Durability: Danner Lineman Boot

Product specs

Material	Leather
Shaft	10 inches
Insole	PU insole
Outsole	Vibram sole
Toe Box	Composite toe cap

Key features

• Full-grain leather
• Standard lace-up system
• Vibram sole
• 10” shaft
• Steel shank
• Triple stitch on the leather upper material

The durability of this lineman boot is exemplary and you can use it for other jobs and activities like forestry works, logging, camping, and as a zookeeper. You can depend on its toughness because it has a triple stitch on its upper leather material. Likewise, the suede leather is reinforced with a wax coating to enhance its resistance against fire and moisture.

The break-in period is not that long, around a day or two on average. The leather lining inside has good breathability function and wicks off sweat, thus, no problem about fungal infection and blisters.

The insole has enough padding to comfort your foot for the entire day. Balance is unquestionable with its steel shank that can ease up the load on your calves and arch.

Best for Easy Slip-On: Ariat Catalyst VX Lineman Boot

Product specs

Material	Leather
Shaft	11 inches
Insole	Cushioned
Outsole	Rigid rubber
Toe Box	Composite with hard PU cover

Key features

• Genuine full-grain leather upper
• 11-inch shaft
• Rigid rubber outsole
• Spacious toe box
• Slip-on
• Composite toe cap

The appearance of this tactical lineman boot is amazing because it has a hybrid appeal of classic moccasin and modern stylish boot. Its slip-on easy wear action comes very usefully when you are tired of getting the lace-up system. You can pull up the sides top line to get a snug fit.

I also like the composite toe cap which has reliable sturdiness against light to medium impact. It has a durable construction which can be seen on its two stitch seams on the leather upper and lining. The rubber outsole does not have much of a tank tread pattern but it does give a squeaky grip on your floor.

The leather material has excellent durability and resistance against flame, water, and electricity as well. For a reasonable price, this lineman boot is a great choice.

Best for Anti-Abrasion: La Sportiva Makalu Lineman Boot

Product specs

Material	Genuine leather
Shaft	N/A
Insole	Cushioned
Outsole	Rubber
Toe Box	Composite toe cap

Key features

• 3-mm Idro-Perwanger leather
• 1.5-mm Dacromet Steel shank
• Tough rubber outsole (Skywalker MPE)
• Waterproof Dry-Best lining
• SBR air-cushion midsole
• Padded collar
• Basic lace system

By looking at this lineman boot, I would say it is a monster for its toughness. The Idro-Perwanger leather upper of this boot is very stiff and can take around a day or two for it to completely break into your foot. The durability of its material is a great trade-off with the price. However, you would be surprised that it is pretty cool inside despite its excellent anti-abrasive nature.

The lace and eyelet hardware is very rugged and compatible with outdoor activities. For a lineman, this is great considering the danger of their job. The Skywalker MPE rubber outsole is very thick. With that, it gives a stunning electrical insulation property for your safety.

Meanwhile, the tank treads underneath highly contribute to its snug hug on off-road and smooth floors. This is also great for climbing which is often done by linemen. Moreover, the padded collar and tongue add comfort as well.

Best for Anti-Slip: Thorogood 6” Lineman Boot

Product specs

Material	Full-grain leather
Shaft	Fiberglass
Insole	Cushioned foam
Outsole	Rubber
Toe Box	Steel toe

Key features

• Full-grain leather upper
• 0.5-inch heel
• Shank made from fiberglass
• MAXWEAR Rubber outsole
• Steel toe box
• Cushioned collar
• Pull up tabs on heel topline

At first glance, I admire the moc design of this lineman boot. The classic and fancy appearance adds aesthetics alongside with its heavy-duty function. By looking at its triple and single stitches running around the seams, I can say it is well-made. Likewise, its lace tightening mechanism works seamlessly as expected.

The overall electrical hazard protection you get from its upper material and the rubber outsole is approximately 18,000 volts at 60 Hz. Its footbed can be removed and has an electrical resistance as well. Likewise, it has sufficient cushion to exude comfort on your foot girth, arch, and heel strike.

Looking at its outsole, it is made from MAXWEAR 90 PU compound. It is tough and the aggressive tread blocks and grooves tightly grip on the ground when you are walking or climbing. Overall, I find this a great choice as a lineman boot.

Best for Electrical Insulation: RockRooster 9” Lineman Boot

Product specs

Material	Full-grain leather
Shaft	9 inches
Insole	Memory foam
Outsole	The tough rigid rubber compound
Toe Box	Composite toe cap

Key features

• Memory foam footbed
• Anti-puncture leather
• Tough rubber outsole
• Composite toe box
• Rustproof brass eyelet and basic lace system
• Steel shank
• 9-inch shaft

This tactical lineman boot has the looks and function of a dependable work boot for tough working conditions. The rich brown color of its full-grain leather adds a classic style to your casual work boot. Its outsole is made from tough rubber compound with tank treads to effectively bite on the floor or ground. Great traction for climbing and walking.

The outsole also has a silicon oil coating to increase its anti-slip function. The thickness of this outsole highly contributes to its excellent electrical resistance. In terms of the toe to heel balance, this boot has no problem because it has a steel shank which helps lifts the load on your arch and heel.

The memory foam insole works well for absorbing shocks, keeping your foot away from stress and fatigue. The inner layer of the leather is cool and breathable, thus, zero worries about foot sweat.

Best for Shock Absorption: Timberland Pro Men Lineman Boot

Product specs

Material	Synthetic
Shaft	9 inches
Insole	Dual-Density foam
Outsole	Vibram sole
Toe Box	Composite toe

Key features

• Ever-Guard leather
• Padded collar
• Basic lace-up mechanism
• Vibram outsole
• 9” shaft
• 2” heel height
• Dual-density insole

The best thing to admire from this lineman work boot is its insole, midsole, and Vibram outsole. Why? Because the combination of these things creates a smooth shock-absorbing system for this tactical boot. The dual-density insole cushions the tension running back and forth from the toe to the heel.

The leather lining is also capable of wicking off sweat, thus, you are confident of having no foot sweat and fungal infection. In terms of traction, the Vibram sole is a winner because it can provide a powerful bite on smooth and rough terrains. Likewise, this kind of outsole can last for a longer time.

Looking at its two stitch seams, I can say that it has excellent construction of its upper material and sides of the boot. The leather material used for this work boot is strong and breathable. There is a break-in period like a day or two because of the rigidity of its full-grain leather.

Further, the thickness of the Vibram sole contributes to its electrical insulation.

Best for Anke and Heel Support: Irish Setter 9” Lineman Boot

Product specs

Material	Leather
Shaft	8.5 inches
Insole	Removable polyurethane insole
Outsole	Rubber
Toe Box	Composite toe cap

Key features

• Full-grain leather
• 8.5” shaft
• UltraDry Waterproofing lining
• Cushioned polyurethane insole, removable
• Rubber outsole
• Pull-up tab on heel top line
• Padded collar
• Lace tightening system

It might sound a little biased, but moccasin boots for linemen is a nice option. You got both balances for functionality and aesthetics. For this moc boot, it has a great support cushion and material for your ankle and heel. The brown leather material of this looks simple but can be a wise choice for casual occasions.

Leather upper has enough toughness but never restricts movement and breathability. When you want to adjust the tightness of your boots, it has a fast lace mechanism. The brass eyelet can sufficiently resist rust even at a high moisture level.

Looking at the stitching quality, you can easily tell the good quality of its craft. The rubber outsole is made from synthetic rubber with enough thickness to provide good electrical insulation. Moreover, its tread designs are just right to ensure you never slip from slippery surfaces. A concern with breathability and foot comfort? Worry not, because its PU footbed has enough padding to reduce and dissipate the shocks in every movement.

Best for Supportive Shank: Georgia Gore-Tex Lineman Boot

Product specs

Material	Leather
Shaft	9.5 inches
Insole	Orthotic insole, removable
Outsole	Vibram sole
Toe Box	Composite toe

Key features

• Full-grain leather
• Vibram sole
• 9.5-inch shaft
• Brass-plated eyelets
• Fast lace system
• Steel shank
• Breathable lining
• Removable Orthotic insole

The steel shank of this Georgia boot truly helps you to maintain balance in every move you make. It reduces the weight placed on your arch and calves. Alongside this, there is slight padding at the heel strike to provide better comfort.

In terms of aesthetics, I like the polished black leather finish of these lineman boots. It has an extra coating to reinforce resistance against moisture, fire, and electric shocks. Despite its resistance and durability, the leather upper still maintain good flexibility that allows free movement.

Other comfortable features of this work boot include its Orthotic insole which captures shocks when you walk, climb, or jump. The lining is also breathable inside the boot.

For linemen, it is also a must that their boots can effectively bite on all types of floors. This Georgia boot has a Vibram sole which has the tank tread pattern that exudes strong biting hug on slippery and rough surfaces.

Best for Outdoor: Rocky Bearclaw Lineman Boot

Product specs

Material	Leather
Shaft	Mid-calf height
Insole	Removable foam insole
Outsole	Vibram sole
Toe Box	Steel toe

Key features

• Gore-Tex top line
• Full-grain leather with Polartec and Thinsulate
• Vibram sole
• Tank treads
• Quick and Easy lacing mechanism
• Pull-up tab on the heel top line

By the looks of these work boots, I would say it has excellent rugged features and looks to fit for outdoor activities. For linemen, this is a beneficial trait considering they need strong traction, excellent insulation, and balance in every movement.

The leather material used for this boot has added coating to increase its protection against moisture, fire, and dirt. Hence, it requires low cleaning for this one. The Vibram outsole has the standard tank treads which strongly bites on the ground. There is sufficient durability for this to last long.

Looking at its overall features, it has impressive attributes for the outdoor and linemen.

Carhartt Lineman Boot

Product specs

Material	Leather
Shaft	Arch to ankle height
Insole	Dual-density insite foam
Outsole	Rubber outsole
Toe Box	Composite toe cap

Key features

• Rubber outsole
• Genuine leather
• Arch to ankle height for shaft
• Dual-density insite foam insole
• EVA midsole
• EH rating of 18,000 volts
• Padded collar
• Composite toe cap

There are several things to admire and gripe about this lineman boot from Carhartt. The two best things I want to highlight first would be its anti-slip rubber outsole and durable leather material.

Its rubber outsole has large lugs in various directions which greatly contributes to its anti-slip and anti-skid features. The deep grooves also induce better traction on muddy and slippery surfaces. Likewise, it exudes self-cleaning action.

Its full-grain leather is reinforced with a coating to have better protection whether it rains or not. With this, you can easily clean and wipe off spills and dirt over the surface.

For the linemen, this is a great working boot because of its traction and high EH rating, that is, it can take on a shock of 18,000 volts. Do you want comfort? This one has a dual-density insite foam insole and EVA midsole to effectively dissipate shock.

Ad Tec Lineman Boot

Product specs

Material	Full-grain oiled leather
Shaft	N/A
Insole	Cushioned footbed
Outsole	Rubber outsole
Toe Box	Composite toe

Key features

• Full-grain leather coated with oil
• Rubber outsole
• Brass eyelet and fire-resistant lace
• Goodyear construction quality
• Steel shank

This has a logger style for a lineman boot of your choice. It uses full-grain leather for its upper material. The leather material is coated with oil to reinforce its waterproofing abilities and fire resistance. Combing the durability of the leather and its rubber outsole, this logger boot has excellent electrical insulation.

Meanwhile, comfort is never compromised for this one because it has a removable cushioned insole which eases the pain on the arch, ball, and heel. Its rubber outsole also helps dissipate shocks in every movement you make.

Muck Lineman Boot

Product specs

Material	Oiled leather
Shaft	Arch to ankle height
Insole	Cushioned foam
Outsole	Rugged rubber
Toe Box	Composite toe cap

Key features

• Full-grain leather 
• Side zipper
• Rugged Rubber outsole
• Arch to ankle height for shaft
• Padded insole
• Padded collar
• Basic lace tightening
• Composite toe cap

I like the patina-like hue of this lineman boot from Muck Boot. It gives a classic feel for his modern age. The full-grain leather used for its upper is very durable and is oil-coated to enhance water resistance. The heel and toe cap area has an extra layer of synthetic leather which adds extra protection for the areas prone to cuts and chips.

The rubber outsole used for this tactical boot is fairly strong with larger lugs and deep grooves which can suit for your outdoor activities like logging, camping, hiking, trekking, and fishing.

For an easy wearing, it also has a side zipper. Meanwhile, its lace mechanism works well for the adjustment of the boot’s wrap around your leg and foot. The thickness of the rubber outsole is highly supportive of its electrical insulation properties.

Best for Budget: Rugged Blue Lineman Boot

Product specs

Material	Genuine leather
Shaft	Arch to ankle height
Insole	Shock-absorbent foam
Outsole	Rubber with aggressive tread design
Toe Box	Steel toe

Key features

• Classic brown full-grain leather
• Fast lace system
• Vibram sole with aggressive tread blocks
• Steel toe
• Shock-absorbent insole and midsole
• Steel shank

If you are on a tight budget, then this lineman boot from Rugged Blue can be your best choice. It has the basic features you are expecting for a tactical work boot. The tread patterns are aggressive enough to bite on smooth and rough terrains. Likewise, the thickness of its rubber outsole exudes great electrical insulation.

The leather upper material has a polished appearance which increases its resistance against water, dust, and cuts. Overall, this work boot is of fair quality for an affordable cost.

Buying Guide

For my readers, I always include this guide section to discuss the important features for a certain product I am reviewing. Today, I am showing here the important features you need to look for a quality lineman boot.

Outsole for Strong Biting Grip

Usually, the rubber outsole for most brands of lineman tactical boots are made from a thick and rigid rubber compound. If you have seen the outsole of a working boot, there are horizontal tread blocks and some vertical sipes on it. These tread patterns are responsible for giving you a dependable hug on every surface you step on.

Moreover, they are typically thick so that there is better insulation from possible electric shock when in contact with the electrical post. Choosing a boot with a slick and strong biting grip is essential for linemen when there are climbing on electrical posts.

Supportive Structure

Comfort is inevitably needed for all kinds of working and tactical boots, especially if you are going to use it for the entire day. However, to avoid any injury, your boots must have good supportive features such as the heel back cushion, shank, midsole, and the upper material. 

I am going to focus more on the ankle, arch, and heel support as this can affect the balance of the person. These are necessary to keep you from getting injured during work.

Comfortability

You can measure the comfort of any work boots when you look at its insole and midsole. The midsole has a good balance between being supportive while giving much comfort. It can be made from EVA foam or latex foam.

Meanwhile, the insole can be removable or not, but the main priority will be if it has sufficient cushion for the arc, ball, and heel of your foot. Oftentimes, insoles can be made from latex foam or memory foam.

Latex foam is slightly rubbery in texture, thus, it can exude a supportive force on your arch and toes. Memory foams on the other are extremely comfortable, feels like walking on pillows.

Supportive Shanks

The shank on any tactical boots is responsible for the balancing of your standing and walking while using the boot. Oftentimes, a lineman boot can have a shank made from steel or other hard materials like plastic or wood.

Upper Material

The best upper material for lineman boots is full-grain leather because it has good waterproofing properties and durability. Other materials used as an alternative include Cordura Cuff, synthetic leather, suede leather, Vibram, and textile.

Electrical Hazard (EH) Rating

This would be one of the most important features a lineman would look into when choosing for the best tactical boots. This rating scale reflects the electrical protection that your boots can give for you. In general, it is a scale evaluating the non-conductive property of all materials used to create that certain lineman boot.

Ability to Wick Off Sweat and Moisture

This is also an important variable one needs to look into because it can affect your comfort and safety. The lining material inside your boots must be able to efficiently wick off foot sweat. This ensures your foot is dry at all times, thus, reduced the risk for fungal growth and foul odor.

Meanwhile, the ability of the upper material to resist moisture is also good so that you are constantly safe from electrocution as water is a good conductor. Leather with an extra wax coating is a good option to ensure your upper material has excellent waterproofing properties.

Frequently Asked Questions

Further, for your additional insights, I have also compiled some of the common questions asked by customers when they are eyeing for good lineman boots. I have supplied a brief answer to each item.

Why is a high-cut or tall lineman boot is more preferable? 

Tall linemen boots are recommended because you are legs are better covered and the lace-up system can be tightened well to snugly hug your foot and leg.

What are the best materials for making linemen boots?

The best material which provides great support and comfort for your legs and feet is full-grain leather made from cowhide, sheep hide, and other ideal dried skin from animals.

Our steel toes required?

The choice of having a steel toe or composite toe depends on your preference. The former provides excellent impact resistance against falling objects but can be an added weight on your foot. The latter choice is lighter with a few notches lower in terms of impact resistance.

What highly contributes to the high EH rating of lineman boots?

If your linemen work boots have a very thick rubber outsole, then its EH rating can be higher. It is your outsole responsible for giving you sufficient protection from electricity and static current while climbing on the electrical post.

What is the function of the steel shank on a boot?

The shank of a shoe can be made from different materials with steel as the best choice. A shank is sandwiched between the insole and outsole. Its main function is to reduce the load stress place o your arch and calves. This, in turn, improves your stability and eases foot strain.

My Top Pick

For this article, my top pick lineman boot is from Wesco Highliner. I like the brown leather feel and texture of its upper material. When you look at its functionality, it can sufficiently meet on your expectations such as strong grip, electrical insulation, and supportive insole and midsole.

Do you have any comments or suggestions? Please feel free to write that down on the box.