On the hunt for comfortable, durable work boots that will hold up to the demands of your daily grind? Investing in a pair of American made work boots might be something you are considering after blowing through pair after pair of cheap foreign made ones. I have compiled this list of made in the USA works boots, uniform boots and shoes, and military boots to make your search easier.
Best American Made Work Boots
This list includes many American-made work boots brands, but which ones are the best? Easy answer: All of them.
I used to work for a retail store that sold work boots. I know how challenging it is to find work boots that have all of the features that are needed. Some people need steel toe, some soft toe. Some need 6 inch boots, some 8 inch and higher. Other shoppers are looking for leather work boots, pull on work boots, or fabric work boots.
Certain jobs require specialty work boots which can be hard to find. I have included American made logging boots, fire fighter boots, military, police and EMT boots, even postal worker boots are included in this list.
What Work Boots Are Made in the USA?
There are soooooo many options, but hopefully this list and selection tips will help you make the perfect choice. All of the US made work boot brands on this list are known for being the best in the boot industry.
You might be surprised to see popular brands on this list like KEEN, Red Wing and Carolina. There might even be some brands you have never heard of, yet have been making work boots in the USA for over one hundred years like West Coast Shoe Company and White's.
Not all of the brands on this list manufacture all of their work boot styles in the USA, so check the item description to verify. Many of the brands on this list are assemble their boots in the United States from U.S.-sourced materials and globally sourced materials. I have made it clear to note when extra detail needs to be made to verify which styles are American made. At USA Love List, we recognize every effort a company makes to keep jobs on American soil for American workers.
Guide to Choosing the Best Work Boots, Military Boots, or Uniform Boots Made in the USA
When shopping for high-quality work boots, military boots, or uniform boots made in the USA, there are multiple factors to consider beyond just durability. The right boot should be suited to your specific work environment, safety needs, and personal comfort. The most suitable boots should be made from the best work boot materials and have the best components for your job. . Below, we'll explore key features like toe protection options, sole characteristics, safety enhancements, and more, so you can make an informed decision when choosing the perfect pair of boots.
1. Toe Protection Options: Composite, Soft, Steel, and Alloy Toes
Toe protection is a crucial consideration in work boots, especially if you’re in an environment with potential for heavy impacts or falling objects. Each type of toe protection offers distinct benefits:
- Composite Safety Toe: Composite toe caps are typically made from materials like Kevlar, carbon fiber, or plastic. These boots offer similar protection to steel toes but are lighter, which reduces fatigue during long workdays. They don’t conduct electricity, making them ideal for electrical work. Additionally, composite toes won’t set off metal detectors, which is beneficial in security roles.
- Soft Toe: Soft-toe boots offer no additional toe protection and are lighter and more flexible than safety-toe boots. They are ideal for less hazardous environments where you need flexibility, mobility, and comfort without the added weight of a protective toe cap. They are often used in service industries or for light-duty jobs.
- Steel Toe: Steel toe boots are known for providing maximum protection against compression and impact. They are the industry standard for heavy-duty work in construction, manufacturing, and similar fields. Steel toes do conduct cold, however, so they may be uncomfortable in extremely cold conditions.
- Alloy Toe: Made from lightweight metals like aluminum and titanium, alloy toe boots offer the same protection as steel toes but weigh less, which can reduce foot fatigue. They are ideal for those who need robust protection with a bit more comfort for all-day wear. However, like steel, they can conduct cold.
2. Shank Support: Steel Shank
Shanks provide support to the arch of the foot and help distribute weight evenly, which reduces fatigue and protects against sharp objects or uneven terrain. A steel shank is the most durable type, offering excellent stability and puncture resistance. Steel shanks are typically used in heavy-duty boots and are ideal for those working on rugged terrain, such as in construction or forestry.
3. Metatarsal Guard Protection
A metatarsal guard provides additional protection over the top of the foot, shielding the bones between the ankle and toes. These guards are essential in jobs where there’s a high risk of heavy objects falling on the foot. They’re commonly found in industrial settings like welding, heavy manufacturing, and mining. Metatarsal guards can be either external or integrated within the boot, offering flexible protection options based on your needs.
4. Electrical Hazard (EH) Protection
Boots with electrical hazard (EH) protection are designed to prevent electric shock by insulating the wearer from live circuits. EH-rated boots are essential for electricians, linemen, or anyone working near live electrical circuits. EH protection is typically achieved through non-conductive soles and heels, which can protect against open circuits of up to 600 volts under dry conditions.
5. Oil and Slip Resistance
Oil and slip resistance is a critical feature for anyone working in wet, slippery, or oily environments, such as kitchens, automotive repair shops, and construction sites. Slip-resistant outsoles are designed with specialized tread patterns to provide grip on slick surfaces, helping prevent falls and injuries. Oil resistance, meanwhile, prevents the sole from deteriorating when exposed to petroleum-based products, prolonging the boot’s lifespan.
6. Waterproofing and Breathability
For outdoor workers or those in wet environments, waterproofing is essential. High-quality work boots offer waterproof leather and moisture-wicking linings to keep feet dry and comfortable in hot weather and in hot working conditions. Breathable membranes like Gore-Tex® are often integrated to allow moisture from sweat to escape, reducing the risk of blisters or discomfort from damp feet. If you’re working in hot conditions, a boot with excellent breathability is essential.
7. Outsole Type
The outsole type impacts the traction, stability, and durability of the boot. Here are common options:
- Rubber Outsoles: Rubber provides excellent durability and slip resistance, particularly on wet or oily surfaces. They are commonly used for heavy-duty work boots in industrial or construction settings.
- Polyurethane (PU) Outsoles: PU outsoles are lightweight and provide good shock absorption and resistance to chemicals, making them suitable for indoor jobs or environments with prolonged standing.
- Vibram® Outsoles: Vibram® is a popular brand known for making high-performance outsoles with excellent traction, durability, and resistance to abrasions, suitable for rugged terrains.
8. Comfort and Fit
Comfort is essential when choosing work boots, as many jobs require long hours on your feet. The most comfortable boots hav features like padded insoles, cushioned midsoles, and ergonomic designs can reduce fatigue. Additionally, look for boots with moisture-wicking linings to keep your feet dry, as well as removable insoles that allow you to insert custom orthotics if needed. Ensure you choose the right size and width for your feet, as an ill-fitting boot can lead to discomfort, blisters, and even injuries.
9. Made in the USA: Quality, Craftsmanship, and Berry Compliance
When selecting work boots made in the USA, look for quality craftsmanship and manufacturing standards that prioritize durability and ethical labor practices. American-made boots are known for their attention to detail, often using high-quality leather and robust materials to ensure longevity. Choosing boots made in the USA supports local businesses and the U.S economy.
An additional consideration for military and certain uniform boots is Berry compliance. The Berry Amendment, a U.S. federal regulation, mandates that the Department of Defense gives preference to domestically produced goods, specifically requiring all components of a product, including raw materials, to be sourced and manufactured within the United States. Berry-compliant boots ensure that every aspect of the boot—from the leather and laces to the stitching—is American-made. This compliance is crucial for military personnel or government contractors who need footwear that aligns with strict federal requirements.
Many reputable brands, such as Danner, Thorogood, and Belleville, offer Berry-compliant options, ensuring boots that not only meet high standards but also support U.S. manufacturing. When looking for Berry-compliant boots, verify that they are certified, as this designation ensures they meet all requirements for use in federal or military roles.
Choosing the right work boot requires understanding your specific work environment, safety needs, and comfort preferences. Assess whether you need toe protection (and what type), a steel shank, metatarsal guards, electrical hazard protection, and slip-resistant soles based on the hazards you face daily. By selecting the right combination of features, you’ll not only improve your safety but also enhance your comfort and productivity on the job.
American Made Work Boots, Uniform Boots & Military Boots
Belleville Boot Manufacturing Co. Military and Tactical Boots
Belleville has been making a wide variety of tactical and military boots in Illinois since 1904. The tactical boots are built to last from quality materials and are suitable work boots for law enforcement, corrections, EMS, and fire and rescue. Belleville has berry compliant boots and work boots in women's sizes too.
Note: Not all Belleville boots are made in USA, but those that are are clearly labeled.
Shop Belleville boots website and:
Carolina
Carolina manufactures a variety of styles of traditional work boots in the USA. Union made boots include 6 inch and 8 inch boots, steel toe, soft toe, electrical hazard rated boots, linesman boots, and oil and slip resistance boots.
They are made in the Carolina Pennsylvania factory.
Note: Only select styles of Carolina boots are made in USA.
Shop Carolina website and:
Related: Work Gloves Made in USA
Corcoran Jump Boot
Corcoran Jump Boots are Union Made in Pennsylvania. They are unlined, and have an oil resistant military tap rubber outsole and steel shank. These Jump Boots are available in Black, and Brown "spit shinable" leather.
Note: Not all Corcoran boots are made in USA, bought those that are are clearly labeled Domestic in the description.
Danner
Danner manufactures a large selection of American made work boots in Portland, Oregon. Some styles are made from imported materials, and some are Berry Amendment Compliant. Selections include Steel Toe, Alloy Toe, Electrical Hazard Certified, insulated, and non-insulated. American made women's work boots are available too.
Tip: Most of the made in USA Danner Boots have an American flag tag on them.
Note: Not all Danner work boots are made in USA. Check the product descriptions!
Shop the Danner website and:
Double-H Boots
Double-H Boots boots look and fit like cowboy boots, yet have the features that are looked for in a work boot. If you are looking for a pull on work boot, then Double H-Boots might be for you. Lined, Electrical Hazard Rated, and Oil & Slip Resistant options are available.
Note: Not all Double-H Boots are made in USA, but typing 'Made in USA' in the website search reveals a large selection.
Shop the Double H Boots website and:
Georgia Boot
Georgia Boot has a selection of work boots that are assembled in the USA with US and globally sourced components. The USA collection includes moc toe work boots, and wedge work boots, as well as logger boots. Features available are Electrical Hazard, SPR Leather, and Protective Toe.
NOTE: Not all Georgia Boot work boots are assembled in the USA. Check descriptions!
Shop the Georgia Boot website and:
Hoffman Boots Powerline and Pac Boots
Hoffman Boots Powerline boots are "built for climbing" and are the boot of choice for linemen. The XT Powerline Composite Toe, pictured here, is the newest Powerline lineman boot. It has arch flash protection and a leather toe cup for durability. The sides are supportive, breathable, and durable. This work boot meets the ASTM F2413-11 EH standard.
Note: not all Hoffman Boots are American made, but those that are clearly state 'Made in USA' in the boot description.
JK Boots
JK Boots are handcrafted in Washington State using premium American materials. Collections include Work Boots, Fire Boots, and Western Boots. JK Boots work boots are available in hard toe, soft toe and with bison leather. Customized boots are available too.
Justin Work
Justin's 11" Balusters Bay Gaucho Boots are crafted by hand in El Paso, Texas from global parts. These boots are EH, Oil and Slip Resisting, ASTM F2892 rated.
Shop the Justin website and:
KEEN American Built Work Boots
KEEN's Utiliity's collection of American built work boots are available in sizes for both men and women. This collection includes The Troy, a flexible boot that is made for jobs with squatting, bending and knee down work. The Independence is another work boot in the Utilitiy's collection that is made from premium cowhide sourced from the USA. The Logandale boots (pictured) are steel toe with a heat resistant outsole and they are oil and slip resistant.
Shop the KEEN website and:
McRae Footwear Military Boots
McRae Footwear makes select styles of all leather and warm weather military-style combat boots in the USA. Available in men and women sizes.
Note: Not all McRae Footwear boots are American made. Those that are are labeled on the website with an American flag.
Nicks Boots Handcrafted Work Boots
Nicks Boots high end work boots are handmade in the USA and come in hunting, ranching, and logging styles. There are also selections of all-purpose work boots, safety toe boots and firefighter boots, Made in Spokane, Washington.
Red Wing Boots
78 styles of Red Wing Boots are made in two US factories; one in Missouri, and one in Minnesota. Styles include traditional work boots, Oxford work shoes, loggers, & pull on work boots. Available in sizes for men and women.
Note: Read descriptions carefully, not all Red Wing boots are made in USA.
Reebok Postal Shoes and Military Boots
Yes, Reebok has a line of made in the USA work boots; military boots, postal approved boots, and athletic work boots.
Rocky Public Service Boots & Work Boots
The made in USA selection of boots by Rocky include military boots, postal approved boots, and waterproof insulated boots.
Thorogood Boots
Thorogood Boots has an extensive line of work boots made in USA that include leather boots, steel toe boots, Electric Hazard Rated boots, Wellington work boots and more. The Wellington boots are made in USA pull on work boots, if that is a feature you are searching for.
Shop the Thorogood website and:
West Coast Shoe Company Specialty Work Boots
For over 100 years West Coast Shoe Company has been making high quality footwear, including high end work boots, in Oregon. Wesco Boots can be custom made to order. Styles available include specialty boots for forestry workers, fire fighter boots, arborist boots, and linesman boots.
White's Work Boots, Logging Boots, Fire Boots
White's high end work boots, logging boots and fire boots are made by hand in Spokane, Washington. White's Legacy Boots are the original work boot and have been made in the USA since 1853.
Don't Miss These Made in USA Source Lists
Have you visited our Made in USA Shopping District? It is the place to start your shopping when you want to find the best of American-made.
Pin this list to save it for later!
Would be great to see Rancourt & Co on this list, as well as Origin Maine (now more often called Origin USA). Rancourt’s been doing fully made in the USA shoes (of all kinds) for a long while. Origin has been doing made in the USA clothing (and jeans!) for a while, but more recently started making work/winter boots of a few styles. Their social media has interesting behind-the-scenes posts about the challenges of making shoes fully in the USA and fully-sourced in the USA as well.