A solid pair of work boots is a necessity for many Canadian workers, both for indoor and outdoor work. However, a good pair of boots is an investment and can require a lot of consumer research. Trying to find a pair of high-quality, comfortable work boots can be an overwhelming and time-consuming task.
We’ve made the hunt for a great pair of work boots in Canada easier for you. Our experts have put these boots to the test and pounded the pavement to bring you our list of the best work boots in Canada. We recommend these boots based on our tester’s feedback and our test lab results.
Best Work Boots for Canadians
- Best Overall: Kodiak Men’s Rebel Work Boots
- Best Gender Neutral Boot: KPR Men’s and Women’s Safety Boots
- Best for Cold Weather: Caterpillar Footwear Men’s Safety Boots
- Best for Comfort: Terra Sentry Men’s Work Boots
- Best for Warm Weather: KPR Men’s and Women’s Suede Safety Boots
- Best Work Shoe: Dolphin D3 Work Boots
Why Did We Choose These Work Boots in Canada?
Each pair of boots listed here has its own unique quality that made it stand out to us. Various projects and work environments will require different features. How can you be sure that one pair of boots will be able to meet all your needs? We’ve listed our favourites and why they might become your new favourite pair of work boots.
The Kodiak Men’s Rebel Work Boots are the best work boots in Canada overall. They are lightweight and comfortable enough for daily wear. The nylon breathing panels and flexible design make them suitable to wear in many different environments.
The KP Men’s and Women’s Safety Boots are the best gender-neutral option. They have an easy-to-navigate size guide that includes men’s and women’s sizing. It ensures all shoppers can find what will best fit them. These boots are also available in multiple colours, giving the consumer more options to choose from.
The Caterpillar Footwear Men’s Safety Boots are the best boots for winter weather and cold climates. They are fully waterproof, with heavy tread for snow and icy conditions. The Composite Plate and Toe make it perfect for anyone doing electrical or engineering work, or anyone working at a site with metal detectors.
When you need a work boot that is sturdy and comfortable, we recommend the Terra Sentry Men’s Work Boots as our best choice. These boots have extra padding and are designed with the comfort of your feet in mind.
The KPR Men’s and Women’s Suede Safety Boots are the best work boot for warmer climates. They feature a shorter shaft and lightweight suede material. The ergonomic design and tread make it comfortable and ideal for work and recreational activities.
The Dolphin D3 Work Boots are the best option for those looking for a work shoe instead of a boot. It has a slip-on design and leather upper and sole, making it great for many customer-facing environments. It features steel plates and toes to make sure your feet are comfortable and protected.
Best Overall
Kodiak Men’s Rebel Work Boots
Features:
- Fabric Type: 90% Leather, 10% Nylon
- Sole Material: Synthetic
- Closure Type: Lace Up
- Water Level Resistance: Water Resistant
It's Great For:
- Indoor and outdoor working conditions
- Daily wear
- Canadians seeking a lightweight, versatile work boot
- Hiking and outdoor recreation safety
If you’re looking for a versatile work boot that can be worn for many different activities, the Kodiak Men’s Rebel Work Boot is an excellent option. What makes this work boot unique is it combines rugged, nubuck leather with nylon panels. These lightweight nylon side panels make this the most breathable boot on our list. With its flexible design, it feels lightweight while wearing, even while providing great protection.
The boot also features an anti-fatigue insole for additional support. This insole helps to balance the distribution of weight across the feet, ensuring they are comfortable for hours of wear. The insole is removable, so you can customize the level of support needed depending on your day-to-day needs.
The rubber outsole provides additional support and excellent, long-lasting traction. Additionally, it features a CSA-approved Grade 1, steel plate and steel toe. They’re also shock resistant. These work boots are lightweight, comfortable enough for daily wear, and breathable. They are an excellent option if you are looking to optimize your purchase and buy one pair of boots that can perform well in lots of different environments.
The Highlights
The Kodiak Men’s Rebel Work Boot features a nubuck leather upper and flexible, nylon panels. This makes it a lightweight, breathable boot. It is a Canadian-owned brand. These boots are ideal for someone looking for a pair of boots to be worn for many different tasks and climate conditions.
- Flexible, breathable nylon panels
- Lightweight and comfortable for hours of wear
- CSA Approved Grade 1 Steel Plate, Steel Toe, and Shock Resistant Rubber sole
- This Canadian-owned company has been manufacturing boots for 100+ years
From the Test Lab
“These are some of the lightest work boots available. Canadians can comfortably wear these boots for 12+ hours and never feel like they’re trudging around!”
Best for Gender Neutral
KP Men’s and Women’s Safety Boots
Features:
- Fabric Type: Leather
- Sole Material: Rubber
- Closure Type: Lace Up
- Water Level Resistance: Waterproof
It's Great For:
- Easy sizing guide
- Canadians who need a wide-sized boot
- Those looking for a waterproof boot
- Extra ankle protection
Anyone searching for a comfortable, reliable work boot can easily find their best fit with the KP Men’s and Women’s Safety Boot. The size guide is easy to navigate for all genders, so everyone can easily select the best boot for them. Sizes are listed for both men and women. It is available in two colours– ”Wheat” and “Black”, so every shopper can find an option that suits their needs.
This work boot is designed with comfort in mind. It features a padded tongue and collar. The extra padding ensures there is no risk of chafing or discomfort. It is insulated with a breathable mesh lining. The heel stabilizing counter provides extra security, and the cushioned PU midsole keeps the toes and insoles supported. This shoe is only available in Wide sizing. This means it is an excellent option for Canadians seeking a wide sole, or anyone who likes extra room for thick socks in their work boots.
Manufactured out of Toronto, this is an ideal boot for any shoppers looking to support a Canadian-owned and operated business.
The Highlights
The KP Men’s and Women’s Safety Boot is an excellent option for Men and Women. The sizing guide is easy to navigate. It lists sizing in both men’s and women’s sizes. The boot is available in two different colours. It provides shock absorption as well as extra padding at the tongue and ankle. This makes it an extremely comfortable boot, even for many hours of wear.
- Electrical shock resistant
- Bouncy inner soles are ergonomically designed for maximum comfort
- Available in men’s and women’s sizing
- Wide sizing exclusive, perfect for shoppers looking for a wide heel or extra roomy work boots
From the Test Lab
“These boots have a nice, wide-toe cup and fit nicely on both men and women. They are safe and comfortable, and our testers said they were easy to break in.”
Best for Winter Weather
Caterpillar Footwear Men’s Safety Boots
Features:
- Fabric Type: Leather
- Sole Material: Rubber
- Closure Type: Lace Up
- Water Level Resistance: Waterproof
It's Great For:
- Winter wear
- Rainy, icy, slushy, and wet Canadian weather
- Engineers and electrical work
- Metal detectors and magnetized working conditions
If you are looking for a Work Boot that can handle the snowiest weather and iciest Canadian conditions, the Caterpillar Footwear Men’s Safety Boot is the perfect Work Boot for you! It’s made with 200-gram Thinsulate that will keep your feet warm even in harsh conditions. The durable tread will maintain traction, even in ice and snow. These boots are fully waterproof, keeping you protected against even the wettest weather.
These boots feature a composite plate and toe. This means they protect without the use of any metal. These metal-free boots are ideal for worksites that use metal detectors. They are also the perfect boot for anyone undergoing electrical work, engineering work, or working around large magnets.
If you need a pair of work boots that works to maintain deep traction no matter the surface, these boots might be perfect for you. The wider design is comfortable for men with larger feet. The 8” shaft height makes them comfortable and protective for your ankles, so you can work without fear that your boots are going to let you down.
The Highlights
The Caterpillar Footwear Men’s Safety Boot is ideal for even the coldest Canadian winters. They are insulated well to keep the feet warm as well as protected. They provide excellent traction even in icy conditions. The composite toe and plate make it ideal for any worksite that needs metal-free work boots on site.
- 72-inch laces
- 200-gram Thinsulate
- Composite Plate and Toe
- 8” shaft height
From the Test Lab
“Waterproof and warm for winter, which is exactly what Canadians need! There’s no need to double-up your socks trying to keep your feet warm with the boots.”
Best For Comfort
Terra Sentry Men’s Work Boots
Features:
- Fabric Type: Leather
- Sole Material: Thermoplastic Polyurethane
- Closure Type: Lace Up
- Water Level Resistance: Waterproof
It's Great For:
- Staying comfortable on the job
- Keeping your feet dry
- Ankle-high flexible design
- Canadians who need a thicker footbed
When you’re busy running around a work site or wandering the Canadian wilderness all day, you must be wearing safety boots that are designed for comfort. And that’s what you get with the Terra Sentry Men’s Work Boots. These boots are sturdy, safe, and designed to be super-comfortable for all-day wear.
These work boots lace up to provide additional support for your joints. They are ankle-height so they are sturdy and yet allow for flexibility of movement. They are manufactured with waterproof leather on the top part of the boot, and protective rubber on the bottom. The midsole, outsole, and PU bumper toe are all designed for extra protection.
The Terra Sentry Men’s Work Boots have a removable PU footbed that is designed from dual-density material. They come in a range of sizes and are available in tan and black colour options. Terra is a Canadian company that offers sizes in Canadian measurements.
The Highlights
Extra-comfortable design coupled with waterproof material makes this work boot the perfect choice for those extra-long work days and double shifts. These boots are stable and durable and made to stand up against Canadian elements.
- Removable PU footbed
- Waterproof leather material
- Ankle height is perfect for added flexibility
- High-quality full-grain leather upper
From the Test Lab
“There’s nothing more important than having a comfortable set of work boots to make it through a long day on the job, and these boots from Terra Sentry fit the bill. They’re a perfect choice for working Canadians.”
Best For Warm Weather
KPR Men’s and Women’s Suede Safety Boots
Features:
- Fabric Type: Suede
- Sole Material: Rubber
- Closure Type: Lace Up
- Water Level Resistance: Water-resistant
It's Great For:
- Warm and dry climates
- Recreational activities and hiking
- Shoppers who want options for colour
- Canadians shopping for a shorter shaft boot
If you’re shopping for a boot that can be worn for sporting or recreational activities, this is a great option for you! Many people look for work boots that can also be worn for activities like hiking, biking, or walking. These boots are appropriate and comfortable for work and sporting activities.
Some Canadian customers might find a more traditional 8’ shaft too hot in warmer weather. These boots have a 5’ shaft. The shorter shaft can allow for more comfortable wear in hot or dry climates.
These boots are ergonomically designed, ensuring comfortable wear. They feature a super bouncy insole for fatigue prevention and relief. The extra cushioned insole helps with shock prevention. This makes it a great option for anyone looking for a boot appropriate for sporting or high-impact activity.
These shoes feature a printable size guide. Shoppers can download and print out this size guide, just like shoppers can measure their feet in the store. This ensures that you will get the perfect fit, and the shoes will be comfortable from the very first wear.
The Highlights
KPR Men’s and Women’s Suede Safety Boot is a great option for anyone looking for a boot to wear in warmer weather. These boots are different from others because they have a shorter shaft. These are a great option for Canadian shoppers looking for a boot with a shorter shaft than is usually available. They are available in two colours: blue and gray. They also have a downloadable sizing guide, so Canadian shoppers can have lots of options to choose from.
- Suitable for hot and dry weather
- Ergonomically designed, with padded insoles for shock absorption
- Free downloadable sizing guide
- 5” shaft height
From the Test Lab
“These safety boots are designed for extra stability and safety, so no matter what kind of terrain you are traversing, you won’t risk twisting an ankle.”
Best Work Shoes
Dolphin D3 Work Boots
Features:
- Fabric Type: Leather
- Sole Material: Leather
- Closure Type: Slip on
- Water Level Resistance: Water-resistant
It's Great For:
- Customers wanting to shop from a family-owned and operated Canadian Business
- Those who prefer the aesthetic of a shoe instead of a boot
- Customers who need to avoid rubber
- Diverse working environments
Some customers in Canada may not want a work boot. Some shoppers might prefer a shoe to a boot. If you are a shopper looking for a work shoe instead of a work boot Dolphin D3 Work Boots is a great option available to you.
They will keep your feet just as safe and as comfortable as a work boot, but with the style and features of a shoe. It is a pull-on style shoe, perfect for anyone concerned about the hazard of loose shoelaces. It is also a good choice for anyone with health conditions that make tying shoes difficult or uncomfortable. They are easy to get on and take off. It is recommended you wear them with thick socks for maximum protection and comfort.
These safety shoes have a steel toe or steel plate, which will keep your feet protected and enclosed. They are lightweight and slip resistant, with plenty of traction to prevent slipping or falling on flat surfaces. The lower shaft can provide additional ankle support from below, which can be helpful in many diverse working conditions.
The Highlights
These shoes are unique because of their slip-on style. They are a more traditional Work Shoe, with all the protection and comfort of a Work Boot. They are super lightweight and water-resistant, making them ideal for any work environment where you might need non-slip shoes. These shoes are distributed by a family-owned and operated company. The steel toe and plate ensure your feet are always protected.
- Great for anyone looking for a shoe style and not a boot
- Steel toe and plate
- All leather design
- Lightweight and comfortable
From the Test Lab
“Sometimes you need a safety boot that’s really more of a shoe, and this is the perfect style to fit the bill.”
Why Trust Us?
We’ve spent hours searching the web, verifying that we are bringing you the best of the best. We’ve researched everything from kitchen appliances to mattresses. Our team is dedicated to informing Canadian Consumers about which product is the right fit for their needs.
We evaluate every product in our very own test lab. Afterwards, we send the products to our dedicated team of testers for further feedback. With these combined experiences, we compile a list based on the features and characteristics that Canadians value the most. When compiling this list of the best work boots and safety shoes in Canada, we looked for the following options:
- Flexibility and Comfort. Safety shoes must be extremely durable and able to withstand blows and sharp objects. But Canadians who wear work boots or safety shoes for long hours every day insist upon options that are both safe and comfortable. Nobody wants to walk around in uncomfortable, still boots all day, and doing so is incredibly unhealthy for your feet. When building this list of the best work boots and safety shoes in Canada, we looked for options that were designed to be comfortable to wear – even all day long.
- Safety. If a safety boot doesn’t protect your feet on the job site, then it’s not doing its job. We looked for options that provide the ultimate in safety and security for Canadians when putting together this list of recommendations. Steel-toed options are a must for those who work in dangerous conditions where there is a risk of your feet getting crushed, cut, or injured accidentally. A good work boot can protect you from injury or even amputation.
- Waterproof Design. Waterproof materials and designs are critical for those who work outside in the elements. Insulation is also vital if you’re working in extremely cold temperatures. We looked for options that included a combination of features designed to keep your feet warm and dry in even the most brutal of Canadian weather.
- Style. Just because these work boots and safety shoes are designed for working men and women, doesn’t mean you should have to sacrifice style! When compiling this list, we looked for options that are functional, sensible, and fashionable too. That way, you can look great and strut your stuff while you get the job done!
How to Choose Safety Boots in Canada?
There are many varieties of work boots on the market. It is important to find the work boot that is best suited to your needs. It’s good to consider several questions when choosing the best work boots for Canadians. Here are some good things to consider before purchasing a new pair of work boots in Canada.
Electric Shock Resistance
If you are working in an environment where you run the risk of electrical shock, it is important that you know whether a pair of work boots you are considering is electric shock resistant. Not all work boots are electric shock resistant. Boots that are not electric shock resistant are not appropriate to wear in any conditions where you run the risk of electric shock.
You should always choose a work boot that is well-suited to your environment. If you work around magnets, you shouldn’t choose work boots with magnetic components or steel toes. If you are often around slippery work conditions, you should look for a work boot with a deep traction tread, too. Your work environment will determine which type of work boot you should choose.
Insulation
If they will be worn in warm and dry climates, what features and materials will be comfortable? If they will be worn in cold and wet climates, what features will ensure they withstand elements that can be destructive on work boots? Make sure you look for work boots or safety shoes that are made with waterproof materials, so your feet will stay dry even when exposed to rain, snow, or standing water. And to keep your feet warm in the coldest temperatures, look for options that are well insulated to keep your feet toasty and keep the cold out.
Colour and Style
Not all work boots are available in multiple colours. If it is important to you to have different colour options, you should consider that while deciding what pair of boots to purchase. After all, staying safe on the job doesn’t mean you can’t take some pride in your brand-new work boots. If you must wear them all day, you might as well enjoy the style!
Expected Length of Wear
It is a good idea to consider how long you will be wearing your work boots. For long hours, features like good ergonomic design, shock absorption, and padded insoles can make wearing work boots more comfortable. The last thing you need is for your feet to get tired and blistered because you chose a pair of work boots that were not built for comfort.
While most work boots are created with comfort and safety in mind, they are not all created equally. Extra padding can help make long days on your feel a little more comfortable, so look for work boots that don’t hurt your feet.
Choice of Materials
There are several options of material for work boots available. Some materials to consider are leather, rubber, nylon, or suede. You should consider what type of work you will be doing, or where you will be wearing your new work boots or safety shoes to best understand what kind of material is most suitable.
Work Versus Recreation
It is important to know what you will be doing in your new work boots. If you want to wear your work boots for leisure and sporting activity, this is important to consider. You should consider what features are important to safely accomplish whatever activities you will perform while wearing these boots.
Waterproofing
Waterproof boots are a great choice if you anticipate your boots getting wet often. This will ensure your feet remain dry and comfortable, no matter the conditions you are in. Allowing your feet to remain wet for hours at a time is terrible for your skin and could lead to health problems.
Size
When choosing work boots, make sure that you select the appropriate size. While it may be difficult to find a shoe that is available in some sizes, it’s important to have work boots that fit well. If they don’t, they can present a safety hazard on your job site. Shoes that are too big can trip you up and may slip off. Meanwhile, shoes that are too small can cause discomfort and damage, which can cause you to act recklessly on the job site.
Make sure to read the size chart and consider user reviews about the sizing. Some boots run smaller than their advertised size, so it’s important to do your research before purchasing online. If the boots you receive don’t fit correctly, don’t be afraid to send them back and order the correct size to ensure your safety.
Canadian-Owned Companies
Shopping from a Canadian-owned company is an important way to support Canadian business and industry. If you are interested and buying from a company operating out of Canada, this is important to consider when deciding on a pair of work boots.
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I find the right size of work boot for me?
When it comes to work boots, choosing the right size is essential for both comfort and protection on the job. A poorly fitting pair can lead to discomfort and even performance issues, putting you at risk on work sites. To ensure you choose the correct size, it’s important to carefully review the size chart for the specific style of boot you’re interested in. Keep in mind that size charts can vary not only between brands, but also between different styles made by the same brand. So be sure to pay close attention to the size guide provided when making your purchase.
What is the difference between Steel Toe and Composite Toe work boots?
A Steel Toe or Steel Plate is made out of steel, which is very sturdy and protective for the feet. Composite Toe or Composite Plate boots are made with strong, non-metal materials. These can include but are not limited to carbon fibre, plastic, fibreglass, or Kevlar.
Do Canadian-owned boot brands always manufacture their work boots in Canada?
If you’re in the market for quality work boots, you have plenty of options from Canadian brands to choose from. However, not all of these brands may produce or source materials within Canada, even if they are Canadian-owned. If you prefer to support Canadian-made products from Canadian-owned companies, it’s important to verify this information before making your purchase.
