Best Waterproof Leather Work Boots
, by Ed Stone, 4 min reading time
, by Ed Stone, 4 min reading time
But is leather waterproof and can you wear leather boots in the rain? Leather isn’t 100% waterproof, naturally, so you’ll need to shop for waterproof leather work boots. Or, you can leverage various methods to upgrade your leather working boots that aren’t already equipped with a waterproof barrier. This guide will walk through tips and resources for both strategies.
If you work on jobsites where you’re likely to come in contact with water, you’ll need a waterproof work boot to keep you protected. This will likely come in the form of a composite safety toe work boot. The classic work boot silhouette popularized by brands like Timberland pro and Red Wing is nearly unimaginable in anything but leather. While full grain leather isn’t fully waterproof naturally, it can prove to be water resistant to a point.
Many models are optimized for waterproofing, along with other rugged work-related features, including but not limited to:
A majority of leather work boots available are waterproofed through special treatments applied by manufacturers who know that today’s workers can’t guarantee dry workplace conditions.
If your leather work boots aren’t already secured with some form of waterproof protection, don’t worry. You’ll still be able to add waterproofing on your own, whether through a homemade boot waterproofing solution or store-bought methods.
Some of the easiest and best solutions include:
It’s important to mention that these methods apply to nearly any footwear or garments, not just leather.
Another major product category for waterproof leather boots is those made specifically for hiking. Additionally, a hiking boot can also be utilized by those who work outdoors, or whose job entails climbing up stairs or other inclines.
Some of the best models to consider include:
These boots can do double duty for work and play. While you may not immediately look to them as options for your everyday work life, they have the features to make you reconsider.
What makes a hiking boot ideal for outdoor enthusiasts and laborers alike? There are athletic features on the exterior and interior of each pair to optimize flexibility and comfort.
In addition to water repellency treatments on their exterior, hiking boots often include moisture-wicking features inside. Hiking boots also often build in many of the puncture and slip-resistant qualities required for workplace footwear. Those qualities are just as important while climbing up a rock face as they are when putting up sheetrock.
Finally, one last option for waterproof leather work boots comes from the world of motorcycle riders. Those outside the scene might not know this, but many motorcycle boots double as working boots (and vice versa). And, like the options above, they also often come with waterproof protection.
Some exemplary models include:
No matter what style you like best, these models prove that you don’t need to shop within a work footwear category to find great leather waterproof boots for everyday use.
Here at Boot World, we carry a wide variety of leather work boots that are waterproof. From traditional work silhouettes to hiking or lifestyle-specific models, we’ll keep your feet covered—and dry. We have all your favorite brands, at prices you won’t find elsewhere.
Check out our quality selection, and step into your new favorite boots today!