If you are planning a hiking trip, you will need to make sure that your feet are fully protected. If a heavy object happens to drop onto your foot, it is likely to be extremely painful. And, if you are unlucky, the result could even cause damage to your foot and cost you a trip to the hospital.
Fortunately, the best steel toe hiking boots have been created to solve this potential problem. As the name suggests, they are durable enough to wear while hiking as well as at work. So, let’s take a closer look at some of the top models around and find the perfect pair for you…
Top 5 Best Steel Toe Hiking Boots Reviews
1. Skechers For Work Men’s Blais-Bixford Steel Toe Hiking Shoe
If you are planning to go hiking in the summer months, you will need boots that are light and comfortable. However, your feet will still need to be fully protected. With the special breathable vents, the Skechers for Work Men’s Blais-Bixford Steel Toe Hiking Shoe is designed to keep your feet cool.
Going the distance…
This low-ankle style boot boasts a contoured rubber sole that is combined with contrasting insert treads. This helps to provide you with an excellent grip on wet and lose ground. Even if the trail is slippery with mud, you can be sure that you will remain stable.
Stubbing your toe when walking will no longer be an issue when you wear these mighty boots. They are set with protective bumpers on the toe area and heel to add a little extra cushioning. There is also ASTM-compliant steel toe cap, which helps to make these boots especially tough.
All-day comfort…
If you are looking for boots that are also suitable for work, these may be the best steel toe hiking boots. While they are stylish, the design features are subtle enough to suit any occasion. The padded ankle collar and tongue will also provide you with comfort all day long.
It should be noted that the sizes of these hiking shoes tend to run a little larger than average. This means that you will need to check the sizing chart carefully to find the right fit. However, the extra room means that you will have plenty of space inside for a pair of thick hiking socks.
Pros
- Made of 100% leather.
- Features a cushioned footbed.
- Provides impressive shock absorption.
- Utilizes a sport lace-up system.
- Boasts a relaxed fit.
Cons
- The sizes may be larger than average.
2. Thorogood Men’s American Heritage 6″ Round Toe
With their smart oil tanned leather outers and synthetic sole, this model does not look like a classic hiking boot. In fact, they seem like they would be more suitable for a night out on the town that the Great Outdoors. However, the Thorogood Men’s American Heritage 6″ Round Toe, MAXWear 90 Safety Toe Boot promise to be especially durable.
Let’s take a closer look…
These boots are set with the patented MAXWear 90 slip resistant outsole to help make them sturdy on slippery ground. Goodyear welt construction has been used to attach the sole to the leather uppers of these boots. This helps to make them especially durable so that you can be sure they will go the distance.
As the name suggests, these boots also come with a steel safety toe. This has been ASTM rated and provides protection against electrical hazards. It also means that your toes will be fully protected when you are out on the trail.
Well-padded…
Comfort is also an important consideration when hiking, and in that respect, these boots really deliver. Plenty of cushioning is provided by the outsole, midsole, and insole, as well as excellent shock absorption. The lightweight yet durable leather shaft is also fully padded for extra comfort.
If you have wider feet, you may find that the toe box is a little tight. It should also be noted that these boots are not fully waterproof. However, it is possible to apply waterproofing to help detour the moisture.
Pros
- ASTM rated Electrical Hazard Toe.
- Set with a fiberglass shank.
- Removable Ultimate Shock Absorption footbed.
- MAXWear 90 slip resistant outsole.
- Goodyear storm welt construction.
Cons
- These boots are not waterproof.
- Not ideal for people with wide feet.
3. Timberland PRO Men’s 6″ Pit Boss Steel-Toe
With their smart and sturdy design, these hiking boots really stand out from the crowd. Like all boots from Timberland, the Timberland PRO Men’s 6″ Pit Boss Steel-Toe has been designed to be especially durable. However, they are also fully lined to help make them especially soft and comfortable when hiking.
Want to know the best part?
Timberland PRO Men’s 6″ Pit Boss Steel-Toe boot is designed to be fully waterproof. Even if it happens to rain when you are hiking, you can be sure your feet will stay dry and snug. The lining provides dampness wicking to help draw moisture away from your feet.
Comfort Suspension technology has been fully utilized in the making of these boots. Even if the trail takes you for many miles over rough terrain, you are unlikely to feel the strain. The shock absorbing soles take on any knocks and bumps so that they are not transferred to your legs.
So many colors…
This has also been enhanced by the special anti-fatigue insoles. The smart lace-up system is easy to adjust for the perfect fit. With four different colors to choose from, finding a pair that suits your style should be easy.
Before you set out on a long hike, it is a good idea to take the time to break these boots in; however, this is a fairly simple process. Once they have been fully broken in, you can be sure that you will receive comfort every step of the way.
Pros
- Slip and oil resistant elastic outsole.
- Available in four cool colors.
- Power Fit Comfort System for maximum support.
- Padded collar for enhanced comfort.
- Boasts a steel safety toe.
Cons
- Takes a little time to break them in.
4. Thorogood Men’s American Heritage 6″ Moc Toe
With its double thickness footbed, these boots have been designed for enhanced comfort. However, you are sure to agree that this model is also extremely stylish. The Thorogood Men’s American Heritage 6″ Moc Toe, MAXwear Wedge Non-Safety Toe Boot is ideal for a stroll through the countryside.
Toeing the line…
As the name suggests, these boots do not come with a steel safety toe. This means that they are much lighter than average to deliver enhanced comfort. However, you can be sure that you will be provided with the protection you need when you are on the trail.
The slip-resistant outsole is designed to provide you with the stability you need if the ground is wet. The patented Vibram out-sole has been shown to deliver superior abrasion resistance to help reduce fatigue. Even if your stroll takes you for many miles, you should feel comfortable every step of the way.
Plenty of support…
The soft cotton drill vamp lining interior helps to provide your feet with plenty of cushioning. There is also a fiberglass shank to fully support your ankle. Goodyear storm welt construction has also been utilized to firmly attach the sole to the leather upper.
These boots are so stylish that you are likely to want to purchase a second pair to wear on the weekends. There are four different finishes to choose from to make them suitable for any occasion. However, it should be noted that the soles are not ideal for heavy-duty use.
Pros
- Polyurethane MAXwear Wedge sole.
- Features Goodyear storm welt construction.
- Set with a fiberglass shank.
- MAXWear Wedge slip resistant outsole.
- Cotton drill vamp lining.
Cons
- Not as durable as could be hoped.
5. KEEN Utility Men’s Pittsburgh Steel Toe Work Boot
Are you looking for a pair of hiking boots that are tough enough to wear to work? With their enhanced durability and stylish touches, these boots are ideal for wearing on the trail. However, with their steel toe and other features, these boots will also provide pure safety in hazardous working environments.
The patented oil and slip resistant non-marking wrap-around rubber outsole goes all the way over the toe. This helps to provide you with the grip you need when the going gets rough. There is also a contoured heel lock that delivers enhanced stability and support on any type of terrain.
Where substance meets style…
Despite the fact that these boots are so tough and durable, they are also undeniably stylish. The KEEN Utility Men’s Pittsburgh Steel Toe Work Boot is available in five different colors. There are plenty of matching accents on the heels, laces, and collars that make them especially striking.
Even in wet weather, you can be sure your feet will be dry and fresh all day long. This is ensured by the Dry-lex footwear lining, which is designed to wick away moisture. This means that these boots are completely waterproof both inside and out.
Much less fatigue…
Superior comfort and support is ensured by the metatomical EVA footbed, which is also removable. The uppers are made of a combination of leather and synthetic. They are fitted with a special breathable membrane that helps to reduce foot and leg fatigue.
Pros
- Made of 100% Nubuck Leather.
- Dry-Lex footwear lining.
- Comes with a contoured heel lock.
- Removable metatomical EVA footbed.
- Available in five cool designs.
Cons
- Tend to run a little wide.
Best Steel Toe Hiking Boots Buying Guide
There are lots of things to think about when searching for the best steel toe hiking boots. While you will need your new boots to be tough and durable, comfort is also especially important. Here are some of the key factors that should influence your purchasing decision.
Waterproofing
When you are spending time in the Great Outdoors, a shower could strike at any time. Therefore, it is a good idea to make sure that the boots boast a waterproof membrane. There should also be a non-waterproof mesh lining to draw sweat away from your feet to keep them feeling fresh.
Insulation
However, if you are hiking in a cold climate, you will also need to make sure your feet stay warm. A synthetic lining will help to provide your feet with protection against the cold.
The Soles
It is essential to make sure that the soles provide you with a good grip on slippery and rough terrain. Although hard soles tend to be more durable, they may not provide you with the traction you need. Check to make sure that the lugs are widely spaced, and the sole is made of tough rubber.
The Midsole
The midsole should be lightweight and provide you will extra cushioning for enhanced comfort and support. The midsole is designed to absorb shock and relieve strain from your legs and ankles. The best steel toe hiking boots should either be fitted with EVA or Polyurethane midsoles for ultimate comfort and support.
The Uppers
Full grain leather is a good option as it is especially tough and abrasion resistant, while it also repels water well. Another good option is split grain leather, which is commonly teamed with nylon mesh to provide lightweight breathability. Nubuck leather is full-grain leather that is buffed to resemble suede and combines durability with a touch of style.
Something for the wife?
If you enjoy going hiking as a couple and are looking for a perfect gift, please check out our reviews of the best womens hiking boots and the best lightweight hiking shoes. They are sure to put her smile on her face, not only when she opens the box, but when she’s walking the trails as well.
So, What Are The Best Steel Toe Hiking Boots?
The best steel toe hiking boots need to be especially comfortable and durable. They should also provide you with plenty of protection against knocks and shocks. In terms of all-round performance, the Skechers for Work Men’s Blais-Bixford Steel Toe Hiking Shoe really delivers.
The relaxed fit of these boots helps to make them easy to adjust for enhanced comfort. The steel toe is combined with special bumpers on both the toes and heels. With their specially contoured soles and comfortable linings, you can be sure that you will be ready for any eventuality.