Top 15 Best Summer Work Boots for Men Reviews 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.

Read our latest guide about most comfortable work boots.

What are The Best Summer Work Boots?

The best summer work boots are Timberland and Merrell work boots because they have great design, comfortable, durable, and waterproof. Timberland and Merrell have been the leader of global outdoor boots since 1973. These great work boots can be used to work, walk, hiking under summertime.

To save your valuable time, here is a quick list of top 15 best summer work boots that you may want to glance at:

Best Overall: Timberland Summer Work Boots

Great outdoor boot, comfortable, durable, waterproof, non-slip, light, nice looking, break-in quickly, roomy toe box.

Best for Electrician: Danner Summer Work Boots

Rugged and durable, amazing traction, waterproofing, lightweight, comfortable, flexible soles, feel like sneaker.

Best for Concrete Floors: Vasque Summer Work Boots

Well built, solid stability, look cool, enough ventilation, great support, good amount of cushion, comfortable, excellent toe box.

Best for Flat Feet: Salomon Ultra 3 GTX Summer Work Boots

Super solid boot, aggressive traction, lightweight, flexible, comfortable, breathable, waterproof.

Best for Wide Feet: Oboz BDRY Summer Work Boot

Easily and securely, comfortable, great arch support, durable, waterproof, lightweight, sturdy, for hiking, worth every cent.

Best for Wear All Day: Skechers Verdict Summer Work Boots

Nice leather, work well, comfortable, warm, waterproof, sturdy, great grip, non-slip, durable, great work boots for daily wear.

Best for Walking All Day: Under Armour Speedfit Summer Work Boots

Beautiful design, lightweight, comfortable, ankle support, arch support, ideally for hike rugged trails or long-distance treks.

Best for Sore Feet: Adidas Terrell Summer Work Boots

Great foot and ankle support, warm, lightweight, comfortable, for working all day long, affordable price.

Best for Narrow Feet: Nortiv 8 Summer Work Boots

Sturdy and warm, look great, comfortable, supportive, waterproof, breathable, protect toes, reasonably priced.

Best for Lightweight: Oakley Assault Summer Work Boots

Super light, well-made, soft, comfortable, flexible, like wearing sneakers.

Best for Ankle Support: Merrell Moab 2 Summer Work Boots

Hiking boot, comfortable, good traction, waterproofing, great ankle support, lightweight, nice cushion.

Best for Construction: Ariat Terrain Summer Work Boots

Well made, superior grip, helpful, waterproof, comfortable, warm, look nice, durable.

Best for Plantar Fasciitis: KEEN Targhee II Summer Work Boots

Outstanding hiking shoe, solid, comfortable, flexible, good grip, arch support, for daily use.

Best for Contractor: Columbia Ridge Summer Work Boots

Solid construction, waterproof, not-slip, comfortable, light weight, arch support, decent price, perfect grip for various surfaces.

Best for Budget: Hi-Tec Summer Work Boots

Choll’s orthotics, arch support, high-quality and breathablility, nice traction, non-slip, comfortable, for everyday wear, low price.

Best Summer Work Boots – Comparison Chart

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 Overall: Timberland Summer Work Boots

Key features

• Genuine leather upper
• Gusseted tongue and collar
• Flexible and durable rubber outsole
• Cushioned footbed insole, removable
• Basic lace-up tightening

Product specs

Dimension	12 x 9 x 6 inches
Weight	17.6 oz
Material	Leather
Shaft	4.75 inches
Toe box	Composite toe

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.

Best for Electrician: Danner Summer Work Boots

Key features

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

Product specs

Dimension	8 x 4 x 12 inches
Weight	19 oz
Material	Suede
Toe box	Sturdy leather

Comparing its overall features with my top pick, I have this as my second best bet for your summer work boots. 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 Concrete Floors: Vasque Summer Work Boots

Key features

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

Product specs

Dimension	14 x 5 x 11 inches
Weight	16 oz
Material	Suede
Toe box	Bump toes

Are you looking for good road-holding shoes, especially on concrete? This low-profile work boots from Vasque has features and great traction fit for your demand. 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.

Best for Flat Feet: Salomon Ultra 3 GTX Summer Work Boots

Key features

• Synthetic textile
• Gore-Tex water-resistant and breathable mesh lining
• EVA footbed insole
• Rubber with large lugs and deep grooves
• Easy lace-up

Product specs

Dimension	15 x 12 x 6 inches
Weight	19.68 oz
Material	Synthetic
Toe box	Rubber toe cap

This summer work boots from Salomon is truly light, around 19.68 oz 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. The toe box design also will fit perfectly and be very comfortable for flat feet.

In addition, 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. 

Best for Wide Feet: Oboz BDRY Summer Work Boot

Key features

• Suede leather
• EVA midsole
• EVA contoured footbed insole
• Vibram outsole
• Nylon shank
• Basic lace-up

Product specs

Dimension	4 x 10 x 4 inches
Weight	22.4 oz
Material	Suede
Shaft	4.5 inches
Toe box	Rubber toe cap

Wide feet? Read this. The 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 Wear All Day: Skechers Verdict Summer Work Boots

Key features

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

Product specs

Dimension	11 x 4 x 7 inches
Weight	30 oz
Material	Suede
Shaft	5 inches
Toe box	Rubber-leather toe cap

There is nothing more comfortable to wear every day like this shoe. Its upper section is made from genuine suede leather with PU coating for improved water resistance, a good balance between being durable and pliant at the same time. At the same time, 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.

Best for Walking All Day: Under Armour Speedfit Summer Work Boots

Key features

• Synthetic fabric
• Cushioned tongue and collar
• EVA midsole, contoured OrthoLite footbed
• ESS shank
• EVA outsole
• TPU toe cap

Product specs

Weight	11.04 oz
Material	Synthetic
Toe box	Bump toes

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. Ideally for high-frequency daily walkers.

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 for Sore Feet: Adidas Terrell Summer Work Boots

Key features

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

Product specs

Package dimension	14.2 x 9.7 x 4.9 inches
Weight	18.24 oz
Material	Synthetic
Toe box	Bump toes

Do you find it difficult to find shoes for sensitive feet? Don’t worry because 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.

Best for Narrow Feet: Nortiv 8 Summer Work Boots

Key features

• Synthetic upper textile
• EVA footbed midsole, waterproof lining
• Synthetic outsole with large lugs

Product specs

Package dimension	12.4 x 9.9 x 4.5 inches
Material	Synthetic
Shaft	5 inches
Toe box	Bump toes

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. Also it had a padded tongue and collar for smooth and easy wear on and off. It means, people with narrow feet will not regret choosing this shoe. Besides, 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. 

Best for Lightweight: Oakley Assault Summer Work Boots

Key features

• Suede and breathable Cordura synthetic uppers
• Cushioned tongue and collar
• EVA footbed insole
• Rubber outsole
• Standard lace-up

Product specs

Weight	14 oz
Material	Suede and Cordura
Shaft	8 inches
Toe box	Sturdy leather toe cap

The design of the Oakley workwear is super light and suitable for outdoor activities. 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 Ankle Support: Merrell Moab 2 Summer Work Boots

Key features

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

Product specs

Dimension	13.7 x 9 x 4.8 inches
Weight	19.2 oz
Material	Suede
Toe box	Sturdy rubber cap

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. Better contour besides the amount of layer padding can help support ankles and increases comfort.

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 Construction: Ariat Terrain Summer Work Boots

Key features

• 100% leather
• Cushioned collar and tongue
• Breathable and anti-moisture lining
• Ankle-high shaft
• Synthetic outsole which extends on the toe cap
• Pull up heel strap
• Lace-up mechanism

Product specs

Dimension	15 x 12 x 4 inches
Weight	28 oz
Material	Leather
Toe box	Bump toes

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. It provides all-day support, especially if you do construction works.

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.

Best for Plantar Fasciitis: KEEN Targhee II Summer Work Boots

Key features

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

Product specs

Dimension	5 x 5 x 0.7 inches
Weight	17.4 oz
Material	Nubuck
Toe box	Bump toes

Despite being engineered for the outdoor, this work boots from KEEN gives you enough comfort and support for all types of terrain. For patients with plantar fasciitis, the more you can trust it 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.

Furthermore, 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 Contractor: Columbia Ridge Summer Work Boots

Key features

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

Product specs

Dimension	12 x 4 x 8 inches
Weight	16 oz
Material	Leather, Suede and Mesh
Shaft	5 inches
Toe box	Rubber toe cap

Well, I like the design of these hiking boots for the summer. It has features a hybrid of classic and modern touch. The blend of the color of the lace and the leather 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 Budget: Hi-Tec Summer Work Boots

Key features

• Suede leather and striped nylon straps
• Synthetic rubber outsole
• Removable cushioned footbed
• Basic lace-up

Product specs

Dimension	12 x 4 x 8 inches
Material	Suede
Weight	27.32 oz
Toe box	Rubber toe cap

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.

Summer Work Boots Buying Guide: How to Choose A Right Work Boot?

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.

Is wearing boots in the summer GOOD?

Yes, you can wear boots in the summer. You should wear boots which support breathabilities like sandals, flats, hiking boots, and running shoes. They work great during summertime.

My Top Pick

Among the hundreds of summer work boots I have seen, this one from Timberland White Ledge Mid Waterproof Ankle Boot 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.