Top 15 Best Summer Work Boots Reviews in 2020

Looking for affordable and durable work boots for the hot weather? Here is my list for the best summer work boots 2020. I have included a simple buying guide to show you the necessary features you need to consider.

Choosing the right work boots for the cold season can be simpler than for the hotter climate since your main priority is insulation. Nevertheless, selecting a good working boot for your summer activities is never impossible and it is great because you have come to the right place.

For your convenience, I have made this buying guide to give you some assistance in getting the best summer work boots today. Check out my rundown list and concise buying guide so you know what features to look for a good tactical boot for the hot season.

Top 15 Best Summer Work Boots Reviews in 2020

I hope you find the right summer work boots in my rundown list of the best brands and models today. After this list, you can proceed to my simple buying guide for the right tactical boots for this coming summer.

Best for Overall: Timberland Summer Work Boots

Product specs

Item weight	Not mentioned
Material	Leather
Outsole	Flexible rubber
Insole	EVA footbed, removable
Toe box	Composite toe

Key features

• Genuine leather upper
• Gusseted tongue and collar
• Flexible and durable rubber outsole
• Basic lace-up tightening
• Cushioned footbed, removable
• The shaft is 5 inches

The overall features and construction of these work boots are great for your hiking, trekking, trailing, and camping activities. Its upper section is made natural leather with a waxy and polished surface which reinforces its waterproofing abilities. The inside lining of these boots is also made from breathable and flexible leather.

It uses the basic lace-up system so you can readily adjust the tightness of the wrap around your leg and foot. Breaking in period for this work boot is short, perhaps, a day or two. You can also expect reliable comfort from these Timberland boots because of its gusseted and padded tongue and collar.

Its cushioned and removable EVA footbed provides both support and comfort which runs from your arch to your heel. This reduces the risk of getting foot fatigue from your tiring days of work.

Runner Up: Merrell Moab 2 Summer Work Boots

Product specs

Item weight	Not mentioned
Material	Suede leather
Outsole	Vibram synthetic outsole
Insole	EVA textured footbed
Toe box	Sturdy Rubber Cap

Key features

• Suede leather
• Shaft height is from the arch to the ankle
• Vibram synthetic outsole
• Rubber toe cap
• EVA textured footbed
• Breathable lining made from mesh fabric
• Lace-up system

Comparing its overall features with my top pick, I have this as my second best bet for your summer work boots. Merrell is a trusted brand when it comes to outdoor shoes and boots. There are plenty of features to admire from this work boot and I will start with its Vibram outsole. Its synthetic outsole has a 5-mm lug which provides that squeaky tight grip on dry and slippery surfaces.

When it comes to its shock-absorbing capabilities, you can count on this one because it has a cushioned EVA footbed and padding at the heel stop. Shocks in every step are efficiently absorbed by the outsole and footbed, thereby, equally dissipating the force. In turn, this mechanism works best in minimizing foot fatigue.

The suede leather upper of this work boot has a decent ability to wick off water from the outside. The inside lining of suede leather is also good at wicking off sweat, keeping your foot dry at most times.

Best for Stability: Oboz BDRY Summer Work Boot

Product specs

Item weight	Not mentioned
Material	Suede leather
Outsole	Vibram outsole
Insole	EVA contoured footbed
Toe box	Rubber toe cap

Key features

• Suede leather
• Vibram outsole
• EVA contoured footbed
• EVA midsole
• 4.5-inch shaft
• Basic lace-up
• Nylon shank

This work boots from Oboz has good nylon shank which exudes excellent arch support for a more stable stand or walks. The pressure from the ball of your foot is uniformly dissipated across the entire EVA footbed and Vibram outsole. The heel drop area is also cushioned to avoid painful heel strike.

The suede leather upper has good waterproofing properties. The toe box area is not made of steel, rather from a solid rubber cap which can still take on sufficient impact force. The large lugs on the outsole are aggressive enough to take on off-road surfaces. With this, you are very least like to slip on a muddy and slippery surface.

Best for Lightweight: Salomon Ultra 3 GTX Summer Work Boots

Product specs

Item weight	380 grams
Material	Synthetic textile
Outsole	Rubber with large lugs and deep grooves
Insole	EVA footbed
Toe box	Rubber toe cap

Key features

• Easy lace-up
• Synthetic textile
• Breathable mesh lining
• EVA footbed
• Gore-Tex water-resistant lining
• Rubber outsole

This summer work boots from Salomon is truly light, around 380 grams only. With that, it does not hurt your foot when walking for long distances or trekking. The EVA footbed adds better cushion and support which lets you feel like walking on foam.

It has a breathable mesh fabric that provides better assurance of a dry foot underneath. The Gore-Tex lining inside out highly contributes to its anti-moisture properties. There are good stability and grip in every step because of the amazing tread patterns of its outsole at the heel and ball foot area. 

Columbia Ridge Summer Work Boots

Product specs

Item weight	Not mentioned
Material	Suede leather and synthetic textile upper
Outsole	Omni-Grip rubber outsole
Insole	Tech lite
Toe box	Rubber toe cap

Key features

• Suede leather and synthetic fabric
• Mid-top arch length for the shaft
• Tech lite midsole
• Rubber outsole Omni-Grip
• PU coating for its upper textile and leather

The design of this summer work boot from Columbia features a hybrid of classic and modern touch. I like the color combination of the lace and the leather material of these boots for it creates a good contrast. Looking at its construction, I’d say it is well-built. The sides are seamless then the tough rubber outsole has an extension at the toe area providing better impact resistance.

Its Omni-Grip rubber outsole has unique tread blocks and 3D sipes which creates that strong grip on all kinds of terrains, whether dry or wet ones. The anti-slip grip works as expected. The plastic shank is also good in helping maintain stability in all movements.

The footbed is also good because of the cushion it has which helps alleviates pressure on the foot. Shocks are evenly distributed due to the lateral design of the footbed and outsole. 

Best for Shock Absorption: Oakley Assault Summer Work Boots

Product specs

Item weight	Not mentioned
Material	Suede leather and Cordura mesh upper
Outsole	EVA rubber
Insole	EVA footbed
Toe box	Sturdy leather toe cap

Key features

• Suede leather
• Breathable Cordura synthetic upper
• EVA footbed and outsole
• Standard lace-up
• Cushioned tongue and collar

The design of this work boots from Oakley is pretty simple but fits the outdoor. I like the fact that it uses EVA midsole because it provides exquisite comfort through the rough terrains you are to embark on your trekking, hiking, or climbing activities. The lace-up mechanism works seamlessly in tightening the wrap around your leg and foot.

The EVA outsole tends to be alright as it is flexible and durable at the same time. The tread patterns are not that aggressive, still, it gives a good grip on muddy and paved surfaces. Overall, there is good support on the ankle, heel, and arch of your foot for this summer work boots.

Best for Anti-Slip Traction: Danner Summer Work Boots

Product specs

Item weight	Not mentioned
Material	Suede leather
Outsole	Vibram Fuga
Insole	OrthoLite, EVA SPE midsole
Toe box	Sturdy leather

Key features

• Suede leather material
• Basic lace system
• Vibram Fuga outsole
• OrthoLite Footbed
• Vibram SPE midsole
• TPU heel support

The best feature to admire from this Danner work boots is its effective and aggressive traction which hugs all kinds of terrain. This is contributed by the Vibram Fuga outsole which exhibits great insulation and anti-slip action on slippery and dry surfaces.

Meanwhile, these boots ease the pain on your foot because of its EVA SPE midsole. This material provides good shock-absorbing cushion without reducing its support arch features. Its OrthoLite footbed is removable, so you can dry that up in the air.

The water-resistance of its suede leather is good and anti-moisture lining on the inner layer prevents your foot from being soaking wet. Overall, this is a good summer work boots. 

Best for Comfort: KEEN Targhee II Summer Work Boots

Product specs

Item weight	Not mentioned
Material	Suede leather
Outsole	Rubber outsole with 4-mm lugs
Insole	Dual-density cushion foam
Toe box	Bump toes, extended rubber outsole towards the toe

Key features

• Nubuck leather
• ESS shank
• Metatomical footbed
• Bump toes
• Basic lace system
• Rubber outsole with 4-mm lugs
• Dual-density cushion midsole

Despite being engineered for the outdoor, this work boots from KEEN gives you enough comfort and support for all types of terrain. You can bank on that because of its Metatomical footbed which naturally molds on your foot. It has a good cushion to minimize all shocks in your trekking and hiking.

The heel drop area is padded and contoured to avoid slipping and maintain balance at all times. Its ESS shank adds more stability and support on the arch and heel of your foot. Other features that provide comfort for this work boots include its dual-density midsole, padded collar, and tongue. Overall, it is one great summer work boots for a reasonable cost. 

Best for Breathability: Under Armour Speedfit Summer Work Boots

Product specs

Item weight	Not mentioned
Material	Synthetic textile
Outsole	EVA outsole
Insole	EVA midsole, contoured OrthoLite footbed
Toe box	Bump toes

Key features

• Synthetic fabric
• Cushioned tongue and collar
• TPU toe cap
• Contoured OrthoLite lining
• ESS shank
• EVA midsole
• EVA outsole

This UA work boots is good for the summer because it has a breathable synthetic fabric and mesh lining. It effectively keeps your foot dry by allowing air from the outside freely flow in and out of the boot. As you place your foot inside, you will feel much cushion on its tongue, collar, and footbed. This reduces the risk of getting blisters and foot fatigue.

Because of its breathability and ability to wick off sweat inside, you will have zero troubles with the Athlete’s foot and foul odor. Its rubber outsole provides a tremendous grip on dry and wet surfaces because of its tread design. It allows better surface contact, seems like hugging the terrain.

This rubber outsole makes an extension towards the toe cap to provide reinforced resistance against bumping. Overall, this is one good and lightweight summer work boot for you. 

Best Classic Boot: Skechers Verdict Summer Work Boots

Product specs

Item weight	1 pound and 14 ounces
Material	Suede leather upper
Outsole	Synthetic outsole
Insole	Cushioned midsole and footbed
Toe box	Rubber-leather toe cap

Key features

• Genuine Suede leather
• Cushioned tongue and collar
• Standard lace mechanism
• Synthetic outsole with large lugs
• Padded footbed and midsole

Well, I like the classic design of these tactical boots for the summer. Its upper section is made from genuine suede leather with PU coating for improved water resistance. Leather upper has a good balance between being durable and pliant at the same time. With this, it can comfortably hug and wrap around your foot, ankle, and leg.

Comfort is unquestionable for this one as it has a cushioned tongue, collar, and footbed. The midsole of this boot is padded as well, thus, while providing arch support, you can expect shock absorption as well. Whether you are for trekking or climbing, its rubber outsole has large lugs to help bite on the ground.

Overall, this is one fine summer work boots for an affordable cost.

Nortiv 8 Summer Work Boots

Product specs

Item weight	Not mentioned
Material	Synthetic textile, breathable mesh lining
Outsole	Synthetic outsole with large lugs
Insole	EVA insole and midsole
Toe box	Bump toes

Key features

• EVA footbed
• Synthetic outsole with large lugs
• Synthetic upper textile
• Waterproof lining
• 5-inch shaft, 1.5-inch heel height

This work boot gives you a modern design while providing the best features for outdoor adventure. It has a low-profile for an easier way of getting your foot in. It has a padded tongue and collar for smooth and easy wear on and off. Meanwhile, its standard lacing mechanism works as expected in adjusting tightness.

This boot from Nortiv can be used for any of your outdoor escapades like trailing, hiking, climbing, or trekking. It has an EVA footbed that effectively cushions and supports the ball, arch, and heel of your foot. Its rubber outsole has aggressive tread lugs that bite on every step, whether it is dry or wet terrain.

Its synthetic upper material is highly breathable and wicks off moisture. It can also reflect sunlight, keeping your foot cool and comfy all the way. Overall, I find this a good choice as well for your summer boot selection. 

Ariat Terrain Summer Work Boots

Product specs

Item weight	Not mentioned
Material	Suede leather
Outsole	Synthetic / rubber
Insole	Padded insole
Toe box	Bump toes

Key features

• Suede leather 
• Synthetic outsole which extends on the toe cap
• Ankle-high shaft
• Breathable and anti-moisture lining
• Cushioned collar and tongue
• Pull up heel strap
• Lace-up mechanism

Ariat is one of the good brands you need to consider when eyeing for tactical work boots. This model is made from flexible and genuine suede leather. It provides a comfortable and snug wrap around your ankle, foot, and heel. The upper material is coated with PU for enhanced waterproofing properties.

The lace-up system of this boot is basic and its hardware component is coated for better rust protection. There will be no discomfort nor blisters upon wearing this boot because it has a cushioned collar, tongue, and footbed. The midsole is cushioned as well and supports the arch and heel for better stability.

Overall, I find this work boot has an above standard quality for your summer activities.

Vasque Summer Work Boots

Product specs

Item weight	Not mentioned
Material	Suede leather and textile
Outsole	Rubber
Insole	EVA midsole and footbed
Toe box	Bump toes

Key features

• Suede leather and synthetic fabric
• Aggressive rubber outsole
• Bump toes
• Fast lace-up
• Padded tongue and collar
• Low-profile shaft
• EVA midsole
• TPU plate midsole

This low-profile work boots from Vasque has good features and traction fit for your hot summer season. Its suede leather upper is coated with PU for better water resistance while being pliant and comfortable.

Its EVA midsole and footbed provide effective cushion despite the rough road of the outdoor. Shocks are gradually dissipated through all parts of your foot, the midsole, and the outsole. Moreover, you can rely on its traction as its tread patterns are rugged and multi-directional.

Hi-Tec Summer Work Boots

Product specs

Item weight	Not mentioned
Material	Suede leather and textile
Outsole	Tough Rubber
Insole	Removable padded footbed
Toe box	Rubber toe cap

Key features

• Suede leather and textile
• Synthetic rubber outsole
• 5-inch shaft height
• Basic lace-up
• Removable cushioned footbed

This work boot is ideal for summer because it can sustainably keep your foot dry and cool with its reflective and breathable leather and lining. The basic lace-up system is fine but can still be improved. It has a tough rubber outsole which provides great insulation and traction for your outdoor trekking and climbing.

Its water resistance is good and the footbed and lining can efficiently wick off moisture. Its shank and midsole can sustain good support from rough terrains and shocks in every step. Overall, this is a good summer work boot for an affordable price.

Best for Budget: Adidas Terrell Summer Work Boots

Product specs

Item weight	Not mentioned
Material	Synthetic textile and breathable mesh
Outsole	Rubber
Insole	EVA midsole
Toe box	Bump toes

Key features

• EVA midsole
• Synthetic and breathable upper textile
• Synthetic rubber outsole
• Bump toes
• Fast lacing system
• Rustproof lace hardware

When you are looking for affordable summer work boots with good features, then this one from Adidas is your best choice. Breathability and comfort are great for this work boot because of its cool and sturdy synthetic textile upper. In terms of comfort and support, you can rely on its EVA midsole and heel drop area. It has enough cushion to absorb shocks and the contoured footbed allows even distribution of shock.

The traction of its rubber outsole is amazing. It can snugly hug almost all types of terrain since it has larger lugs and grooves in the outsole. Likewise, it has a slight extension at the toe cap area to provide better impact resistance.

Buying Guide

Finally, you are done reading through my list of the best work boots for the hot summer season. Here, you can check out the important features you must consider in selecting the best summer boots today.

Toe Box Construction

For maximum safety, it is always advised to go for a steel toe boot. The main setback for this model will be the added weight of the steel toe itself. Nevertheless, if you don’t mind the little ounce of weight on each step, perhaps, a steel toe work boot can suit your needs.

In contrast, there are other models of summer work boots with a tough toe box but not steel toe type. These boots have their toe box area made from hardened leather and polyurethane material. It is lighter than steel toe but when a heavy object drops on your foot, there will be lesser protection compared to a steel toe boot.

Comfortable and Anti-Moisture Insole

The insole and midsole matters for this scenario because you will be wearing your work boots for a longer period. To avoid any foot fatigue, there must be sufficient padding and supportive cushion on the footbed and insole of your tactical boots.

The footbed and insole must provide support on the arch, ball, and heel of your foot. Balance and comfort must be of an equal priority since this is a working boot and not a running shoe. Typically, we have an EVA midsole, padded foam, soft leather for the insoles of tactical boots.

Durability of Material

There are various materials used for the upper or body of your summer work boots. The typical materials used include full-grain leather, suede, leather, nylon, polyurethane, and a mixture. The top pick material for these kinds of boots is the full-grain or suede leather.

The kind of material used will also affect the water-resistance of your working boots. For the record, synthetic and genuine leathers have the most dependable water resistance for the outdoor.

Traction

The biting grip of your working boots is determined by the tread patterns and material of your outsole. The outsole of most tactical boots is made from a synthetic and pliant rubber compound. For off-road surfaces, larger lugs and multiple sipes on the tread patterns of your rubber outsole is most suitable. This is great because you can expect better traction on muddy and wet surfaces.

Meanwhile, for paved surfaces, a less rugged tread design will be alright. This type of tread pattern will create quieter steps in your outdoor activities. Moreover, for better biting grip on icy and wet surfaces, the rubber outsole of your boots must have plenty of 3D micro-sipes.

Frequently Asked Questions

For your further insights, I have compiled some of the common questions asked by customers looking for the best summer work boots. I have supplied a brief answer to each question for reference.

What kind of socks best fits for your summer work boots?

Because it is summer, you can expect your foot to have a higher chance of sweating. You never want that to happen because that is uncomfortable and allows fungi to grow inside. For this matter, you can use socks made from wool or any synthetic textile because they can wick off moisture.

What is a good alternative for a steel toe boot?

Other tactical boots have a sturdy toe box called a composite toe. It has comparable durability and impact resistance as a steel toe but is made from non-metallic material. This makes a composite toe more lightweight and great for walking on long distances.

What are the typical height variations for a summer work boot?

Rule of thumb, if you want better protection for your legs, then you need to go for higher work boots. The common heights of a summer work boot are between 5 to 12 inches. Meanwhile, the usual range of the best-selling summer work boots have heights between 6-8 inches.

Is a steel shank fine for a work boot?

A shoe or boot shank is placed underneath the arch of your foot. Choosing a work boot with a steel shank is great because the durability of steel sufficiently provides support and stability on your foot arch.

What is a simple way to clean your summer work boots?

If you have leather summer work boots, it is best to keep it periodically cleaned, polished, and dry to maintain the optimal condition and construction of the leather lining and upper. Commonly, a moistened clean cloth would work fine for removing dust and debris on the surface and outsoles of your boots.

Our Top Pick

Among the hundreds of summer work boots I have seen, this one from Timberland is my top pick. It delivers great design and functionality for a reasonable price. No more worries about blisters and fungal infection with this as it is highly breathable and cool inside out.

I hope you had a great time reading through my article, and now you can find the best summer work boots that fit your needs and budget. If you have any comments or suggestions, feel free to write that down on the box.