How in the world do you recommend the best work boots for men and women in the trades? Every trade has different features and priorities and everyone’s foot is different. Add in literally thousands of choices from plenty of quality brands with different designs and styles, and it’s overwhelming.

Seriously, we’ve been trying to narrow the list down for weeks now and we’re leaving out so many great boots to keep this from turning into an encyclopedia-length review. While these are our top choices for the best work boots in each category, we had to leave out some of our favorites.

So help us and your fellow readers out! If you see a brand, collection, or model you love that didn’t make our list, tell us about it in the comments below!

Best Work Boots for Men/Best Work Boots for Women

Keen Utility Cincinnati

As we said, it’s impossible to tell you there’s one best work boot for everyone. It doesn’t exist. So we have to give you the best work boot for the way we work. That means covering everything from concrete floors at trade shows to outdoor power equipment reviews and standard jobsites. In other words, we need a great all-around boot and the Keen Utility Cincinnati is the one we keep coming back to over and over again.

Its combination of comfort, soft or carbon fiber safety toe options, solid construction, wedge design with aggressive tread, and even the look make it our top choice as the best work boot for men. Thanks to women’s-specific models, it’s also our choice as the best work boot for women.

Price: $190 – $225

Best Waterproof Work Boots

Wolverine I-90 DuraShocks Moc Toe Wedge

Obviously, the best waterproof boot has to be waterproofed and Wolverine’s I-90 DuraShocks Moc Toe Wedge does it in style with their premium waterproof full-grain leather and waterproof membrane with a moisture-wicking liner. From there, the I-90 gets even better with a DuraShocks insole and wedge outsole to improve comfort.

This model features a more dense midsole than some of our other selections. While it’s not as cushy because of that, it does offer more stout protection and is able to resist oil, chemicals, and heat better.

• Wedge design
• Moc toe style
• 6-inch height
• Full-grain leather upper
• Removable Durashocks dual-density footbed
• Goodyear welt construction
• Waterproof
• Soft or CarbonMax safety toe
• Men style only (I-90 EPX CarbonMax has a women’s option)
• Oil and slip resistant
• EH-rated

Check out the I-90 line here.

Price: $160 – $170

Why Do Your Feet Get Wet in Waterproof Boots?

Waterproof boots are great, but they have limits. Waterproof linings, sealed stitching, and other techniques can prevent water from penetrating the material. However, the tongue area on a traditional boot is one likely area where water can find its way in if you’re standing in water.

If you’re looking for the best way to keep water out of your work boots, consider a Wellington slip-on style to avoid a tongue. If you need the ultimate protection against water, go with a dedicated water boot, such as the Grundens’ Deck Boss.

Best Steel Toe Work Boots (Safety Toe)

Thorogood 1957 Series Safety Toe

We love the look of classic boots and Thorogood’s 1957 Series and their safety toe models make the cut as our best steel toe work boots. A wedge sole storm welted to the upper and moc toe design set the stage for this one. It’s a comfortable and durable waterproof steel toe boot with a great style to match. Plus, it’s made in the USA using global materials.

• Heeled or wedge design
• Moc toe style
• 6-inch or 8-inch heights
• Full-grain leather upper
• Removable Ultimate Shock Absorption memory foam footbed
• Goodyear storm welt construction
• X-Stream Waterproof
• Steel toe (soft toe also available)
• Men’s style only
• Slip resistant
• EH-rated (heeled style only)

Other options are available in the series. You can select 6-inch or 8-inch heights and there are also heeled options. If you don’t need a safety toe, you can get them in a soft toe.

Price: $249.99

Best Non-Metallic Safety Toe Work Boots

Red Wing King Toe 8-Inch Waterproof CSA Safety Toe (Style 3512)

The King Toe collection is all about giving those toes of yours some extra wiggle room—44% more than Red Wing’s standard boots. Red Wing’s King Toe 3512 has it all: it’s EH-rated, puncture-resistant, has a non-metallic safety toe, and features a waterproof design. If you happen to be north of the border, it’s also CSA-approved. It can handle the heat, too, with an HRO sole that’s rated to 475°.

• Heeled design
• Traditional style
• 8-inch height
• Full grain leather upper
• Swen-Flex puncture-resistant footbed
• Direct attach construction
• Waterproof
• Non-metallic safety toe
• Men’s style only (check out the King Toe 2340 for a women’s option)
• Oil and slip resistant
• EH-rated
• CSA-approved

Price: $269.99

Best Pull-On Work Boots (Slip-On/Wellington)

Ariat WorkHog XT Tumbleweed

We love the convenience of Wellington boots and if you’re looking for the best pull-on work boots, take a turn to the West and check out Ariat’s WorkHog XT Tumbleweed. They have the western look and quality of Ariat’s cowboy boots with a distinct jobsite focus with a waterproof design and aggressive tread to go with a carbon safety toe.

Ariat goes with a dual-density midsole and Energy Max insole to keep the comfort level high and the entry is designed to be friendly if you have high arches.

• Heeled design
• Western Wellington style
• Mid-calf height
• Full grain leather upper
• Energy Max anti-fatigue footbed
• Goodyear welt construction
• Carbon safety toe
• Men’s style only (check out the Krista for a women’s option)
• Oil and slip resistant
• EH-rated

Price: $224.95

Best Lightweight Work Boots

Keen Utility Roswell

Getting lighter boots often means sacrificing quality and/or stability and that’s simply not a trade we’re willing to make. That’s why we selected Keen Utility’s Roswell as the best lightweight boot. The average carbon fiber safety toe version weighs 22.6 ounces and the soft toe checks in under 20 (19.3 ounces).

It’s also a very unique boot. The canvas upper helps reduce the weight and adds breathability. Most unusually, it has a fold-down design that lets you go wear it up or down based on the conditions you’re dealing with or the look you’re going for.

• Heeled design
• Canvas style
• Mid and tall heights in one boot
• Canvas upper
• Keen ReGen midsole
• Polyurethane footbed
• Cement construction
• Soft or carbon fiber safety toe options
• Men’s only
• Oil and slip resistant
• EH-rated

Price: $150 – $155

Most Comfortable Work Boots

Keen Utility Cincinnati

Finding the most comfortable work boots starts with the correct fit. It has to fit right or the other comfort features and design functions go out the window.

The most comfortable works boots we’ve put on our feet are the Keen Utility Cincinnati. Its combination of a wedge sole and air-infused polyurethane (KEEN Luftcell) midsole makes it incredibly comfortable over long days, even if you’re a big guy. I’m 200+ and this is my go-to boot for shows such as World of Concrete where we’re on asphalt and concrete for even longer days than normal.

New starting in 2022, men now have a wellington option.

• Wedge design with aggressive tread for hard surfaces or bare ground
• Moc toe and wellington styles
• 6-inch, 8-inch height, or mid-calf height
• Full-grain leather upper
• Keen Luftcell air-infused PU midsole
• Removable PolyAer dual-density footbed
• Goodyear welt construction
• Waterproof options
• Soft or left/right-specific carbon fiber safety toe
• Men and women’s styles
• Oil and slip resistant
• EH-rated
• Barnyard chemical resistant

Price: $190 – $225

Best Insoles for Work Boots

Dr. Scholl’s

Sometimes the insoles that come in our boots just don’t cut it for one reason or another. Often, it’s a preference, but your foot shape, arch, or other characteristics can create more painful chronic issues. If that’s what you struggle with, your best insole for work boots is going to be an orthotic from a podiatrist that works closely with you.

If it’s more of a preference thing, we recommend starting with Dr. Scholl’s as the best insoles for work boots. They’re readily available over the counter at a ton of retailers and they carry everything from extra support and odor-fighting to heel pain and plantar fasciitis insoles. They’re also not crazy expensive, so you can afford to try them out and see if they work for you before trying more expensive brands.

Price: $4.99 – $44.99 (most are less than $15)

Best Work Boots From Brands We Trust

Best Caterpillar Work Boots: Caterpillar Fairbanks

Cat’s Fairbanks line includes mid and high models with a couple of Chelsea options and either soft or steel toe. Our favorite in the line is the standard Fairbanks soft toe. It has a classic light brown/tan look and puts its focus on comfort with an EVA/memory foam footbed, microfiber footbed liner, and DuoFuse midsole that blends rubber and foam. Adding to the comfort of everyone around when your boots come off, the footbed liner has a CleanSport NXT layer that actively fights odor.

• Heeled design
• Traditional or Chelsea style
• 6-inch and 8-inch heights
• Leather upper
• DuoFuse rubber/foam midsole
• EVA/memory foam footbed
• Strobel construction (cement construction on Chelsea models)
• Waterproof options
• Soft, or steel safety toe options
• Men’s style only (check out the Paisley line for a solid women’s option)
• Oil and slip resistant
• EH-rated

Price: $135 – $170

Best Danner Work Boots: Danner Caliper

Danner focuses on all-day comfort with their Caliper line of work boots. Working from your foot down, the insole is Danner’s Dual Layer Comfort design featuring memory foam and polyurethane. That sits on top of the Strobel sock base that uses memory foam instead of a basic fabric to complete it. The midsole uses polyurethane to wrap it all up on top of Danner’s Caliper oil and slip-resistant outsole.

• Heeled design
• Traditional style
• 6-inch height
• Full grain leather upper
• Polyurethane midsole
• Dual layer comfort footbed
• Strobel construction
• Waterproof
• Soft or aluminum safety toe options
• Men’s and women’s options
• Oil and slip resistant
• EH-rated

Price: $130 – $150

Best Georgia Work Boots: Georgia Amp LT Edge

Georgia Boot’s AMP LT Edge series has three basic styles to choose from: standard, moc toe, and Wellington. The standard style is available with either a soft or aluminum safety toe. Across the board, these are some of the more attractively styled boots we’ve seen even though they only come in one color (medium brown).

The entire line is EH-rated and waterproof with an EVA midsole and AMP LT insole promoting comfort. A fiberglass shank and heel lock help keep your feet stable on nearly any jobsite surface.

If you like the AMP LT Edge idea, but prefer a wedge, Georgia Boot has AMP LT models with that outsole and includes a couple of women’s styles with it. AMP LT Edge boots are only available in men’s styles currently.

• Heeled design
• Traditional, moc toe, or Wellington style
• 6-inch of mid-calf height
• Full grain leather upper
• EVA midsole
• AMP LT footbed with memory foam
• Goodyear welt construction
• Waterproof
• Soft or alloy safety toe options
• Men’s style only (check out Georgia’s AMP LT Wedge for a women’s style)
• Oil and slip resistant
• EH-rated

Price: $190 – $201

Best Irish Setter Work Boots: Irish Setter Nisswa

If you’re looking for something more athletic in style with a lot more breathability and lighter weight, check out Irish Setter’s Nisswa line. These safety toe work boots (more work shoes, really) feature an oxford style on top of a wedge sole and makes for a great warehouse or delivery shoe.

• Wedge design
• Athletic style
• Low height
• TPU-infused nylon mesh upper
• EnerG EVA midsole
• Memory foam/EVA footbed
• Cement construction
• Aluminum safety toe
• Men’s and women’s options
• Oil resistant
• EH-rated

Price: $149.99

Best Kodiak Work Boots: Kodiak Quest Bound

Outstanding comfort and a perfect fit are the two things Clint DeBoer mentioned the first time he put Kodiak’s Quest Bound Mid work boots on. Available in low or mid heights, these composite toe hiker-style boots offer reasonably lightweight protection as an excellent all-around work boot.

• Heeled design
• Hiker style
• Low or mid height
• Full grain leather upper with TPU guards
• EVA midsole
• Comfortzone footbed with Ortholite comfort foam
• Direct attach construction
• Waterproof
• Composite safety toe options
• Men’s style only (check out Kodiak’s Bralorne for an excellent women’s option)
• Oil and slip resistant
• ESR-rated
• CSA-approved

Price: $155 – $165

Another Great Wolverine Work Boot: Wolverine Raider Durashocks

We just couldn’t leave out Wolverine’s Raider Durashocks. The Raider design has been around for more than 10 years but the Durashocks combination is fairly new. It’s a more flexible, comfortable ride and keeps the classic Raider style with soft or Carbonmax toe options.

• Heeled design
• Traditional, Wellington, Romeo, or low work shoe styles
• Low, 6-inch, 8-inch, or mid-calf heights
• Full grain leather upper
• Polyurethane midsole
• Full cushion footbed
• Wolverine CountourWelt construction
• Soft or Carbonmax safety toe
• Men’s style only
• EH-rated

Price: $115 – $200

Bonus Brand to Keep Your Eyes On: Brunt Workwear

Brunt work boots are relatively new to the scene, entering the market in 2020 with a direct-to-customer business model. Despite the circumstances, they gained a lot of momentum and are seeing great success. If you’re the type of person that likes to support smaller brands, give them a shot. The lineup is more limited than bigger names, but we like the quality we’ve experienced so far.

Check out our review of the Brunt Marin wedge or take a closer look at the Ryng for a more traditional style. It’s a lightweight design with a composite toe and flexible cement construction that’s more affordable than similar boots from other brands. As long as your checking out the boots, consider the Coady sweatshirt while you’re there—it’s not as bulky as most sweatshirts and moves really easily.

• Heeled design
• Traditional style
• Low or 6-inch heights
• Tech mesh upper
• Rubber/foam midsole
• Triple layer comfort footbed with memory foam
• Cement construction
• Waterproof
• Composite safety toe options
• Men’s style only
• Oil and slip resistant
• EH-rated

Price: $105 – $135

Work Boots Buying Guide | What We Look For

Fit

Never, ever buy a work boot that doesn’t have the proper fit. It’s a recipe for a lot of discomfort for your feet. When you put your foot in, make sure your heel is as far back in the shoe as it can go. Once there, find a size that gives you a little extra room—about the width of your thumb. If you do that, you’ll have room for the foot swelling that everyone experiences over the course of a day. The amount of room can be tough to check on steel toe boots, so try a soft toe for sizing if you’re buying in the store.

Then there’s the width. Good-fitting boots should snug up against the sides of your feet, but they shouldn’t squeeze them. You’re looking for stability, not discomfort. The opposite is also true—you don’t want too much width. Too much room can let your feet slide side-to-side and leave you with unstable footing.

The other big piece of the fit puzzle is the heel. When you’re trying on boots, check to make sure your heel is locked in and stable. You don’t want it sliding around.

Comfort

What makes a boot comfortable changes with your foot shape. In general, your foot should feel secure without putting any undue pressure on parts of your feet. You can always loosen the laces over the course of the day (which is why we LOVE BOA systems), but you can’t do anything about the rest of the boot.

The midsole does a lot for the overall comfort of a boot. One of the reasons you see some contractors wear sneakers on jobsites is that the EVA foam in them is so cushiony that it’s much more comfortable than boots. At least until recently.

New midsoles are air-infused and less dense, giving them more cushion than most. Like sneakers, the midsole breaks down faster than more dense designs, but we’ve found we’re replacing most of our boots for other reasons before the midsole is shot.

The last major discussion point is the insole. Most brands put some type of polyurethane insole in their boots to help with cushioning. Keep in mind that they’re replaceable. If you want more cushioning, arch support, or just a different feel, you can always pick up another insole and swap them out.

Sole

Boots usually come in one of two sole styles: heeled or wedge.

Heeled boots are the most traditional style and there are more of these available from virtually every brand. They tend to have an aggressive tread that offers fantastic traction on bare ground. They’re appropriate for just about every jobsite but typically aren’t as comfortable as wedges on hard surfaces.

Wedges tend to be more comfortable because they spread your weight out over a larger surface, reducing fatigue in your feet and legs. The trade-off is that they typically have very shallow tread that isn’t as appropriate for work on bare ground jobsites. They do their best work on asphalt, concrete, steel, and other hard surfaces.

Recently, we’ve started seeing hybrid boots that combine a wedge design with a medium-aggressive tread that fits the best of both worlds. As a big guy, it’s the style I prefer for all-around work.

Construction

Materials are important but it’s how they’re put together that tells you a lot about how long the boot will last. There are three main types of construction with a fourth we see from time to time.

Cement construction is when the upper, midsole, and outsole are glued together. It’s the weakest connection type but tends to be lighter and more flexible with a lower price tag than other construction types.

Strobel construction pops up occasionally and is more common with athletic shoes. With this form, the upper is sewn to fabric to create a sock-like look. From there, the midsole and outsole are glued on.

Direct injection is a process of injecting molten material (often polyurethane work boots) for the sole and then immediately pressing the upper onto it so they bond. This keeps the boot lightweight, flexible, and is generally stronger than cement without driving the cost as high as welting.

Goodyear welting has been around for a looooooong time and is still considered the strongest possible way to put a shoe together, the upper, midsole, and outsole are sewn together using thick, strong thread. These boots tend to be heavier and take longer to break in, but are much more durable.

Features and Certifications to Consider

• Pull-on, laces, or BOA system
• Low, mid, or high lengths
• Waterproof or non-waterproof
• Steel, aluminum, non-metallic (carbon) safety toe
• EH: Electrical Hazard rating
• CSA: Canadian Safety Authority approval
• Oil and slip resistance
• Heat resistance
• Puncture resistance
• Chemical/barnyard chemical resistance
• Anti-bactieral/anti-odor treatment

Why You Can Trust Pro Tool Reviews

Ever check out a “review” site and you can’t tell if they actually tested anything or if they’re just “recommending” the Amazon top sellers? That’s not us. We won’t recommend anything unless we’d actually use it ourselves, and we don’t really care who the primary retailer is. It’s all about giving you a legitimate recommendation and our honest opinion of each product.

We’ve been in business since 2008 covering tools, writing reviews, and reporting on industry news in the construction and lawn care industries. Our Pro reviewers work in the trades and have the skills and experience to know whether tools can perform well in the field.

Each year, we bring in and review more than 350 individual products. Our team will put our hands on hundreds of additional tools at media events and trade shows throughout the year.

Pro Tool Reviews consults with innovators in the technology and design of tools to gain a broader grasp of where these products fit and how they work.

We work with more than two dozen professional contractors around the United States who review products for us on real job sites. We consult with them extensively on testing methods, categories, and practical applications.

Our site will provide more than 500 pieces of new content this year absolutely free for our readers. That includes objective evaluations of individual tools and products.

The end result is information you can trust because of the editorial, scientific, and real-world professional experience we collectively utilize each and every time we pick up and test a tool.

The post Best Work Boots 2022 | Most Comfortable Boots for Men and Women appeared first on Pro Tool Reviews.

Greenworks 24V LED Work Light Offers Excellent Output With Hybrid Versatility

Any homeowner will tell you that it never hurts to have a good portable light handy. Between potential power outages during hurricane season and other household projects, they definitely get their fair share of use. We’re shedding some light on the Greenworks 24V 2000 Lumen Work Light to show you what it has to offer.

Greenworks 24V Work Light Performance

Light Output

This compact work light produces up to 2000 lumens of LED light and has two output levels to cycle through. It utilizes a small cluster of LED lights in the center that produce a wide pattern through its clear lens. Whether it’s inside during a power outage or outside after dark when there’s still work to do, it lights up a very broad area.

Light Quality

The undiffused light is fairly clean with only a few artifacts towards the outer edge of the beam as a result of the lens. The color and temp are near neutral—just slightly on the warm side, which makes it easier on your eyes than lights that lean to the cool side. It’s certainly not like your old-school incandescent work lights.

Runtime

One of our favorite things about this work light it’s a hybrid design, meaning it can run on either a Greenworks 24V battery or AC power with an extension cord.

For our runtime test, we set this work light up with a fully charged 2.0Ah battery, set it to high, and let it go. It ran for a solid 2 hours and 32 minutes. If you end up needing more runtime, 4.0Ah battery nets you north of 5 hours. Of course, you can directly connect an extension cord and use it with your wall outlet.

Most cordless work lights have some type of battery life indicator and Greenworks is no different. When the battery reaches 5%, the light will flash three times and then resume normal operation until the battery fully depletes.

Greenworks 24V Work Light Design Notes

Size and Weight

This work light has a very familiar look, keeping the basic form of traditional halogen work lights, including knobs to adjust the light’s angle. It weighs 4.6 pounds with a 2.0Ah battery and stands 11.5 inches tall. Unlike halogen, you don’t have to deal with the heat those lights produce.

Mounting Options

Just like we’ve seen with the other Greenworks lights, this 24V model comes with several mounting options to suit most situations. It comes standard with a removable S-hook and rafter hook so you can hang it exactly where you need it. There are also two keyholes and a tripod mounting point in the base plate for quick and easy mounting. It’s perfectly happy sitting on its base as well.

Additional Features

• Rubber overmolded top handle
• Compatible with all Greenworks 24V batteries

Greenworks 24V Work Light Price

You can find the Greenworks 24V work light online from Amazon or buy it directly from Greenworks. It retails for $69.99 as a bare tool and comes with a 3-year warranty. As of right now, there are no kit options available.

The Bottom Line

If you’re on the Greenworks 24V battery platform, this work light is an excellent addition that’s bound to come in handy throughout the year. Whether you need a little extra light in a garage or shed that doesn’t have power, want something on hand if the power goes out, or need it on the jobsite, there are countless ways to put it to use.

Greenworks 24V Work Light Specifications

• Model: Greenworks WLG503
• Power Source: Greenworks 24V battery or 120V AC
• Runtime: 2hrs 32 min (with 2.0Ah battery)
• Weight: 3.7 lbs (bare), 4.6 lbs (with 2.0Ah battery)
• Lumens: 2000 lm
• Rotation Angle: 360°
• Warranty: 3-year
• Price: $69.99

The post Greenworks 24V Hybrid Work Light Review appeared first on Pro Tool Reviews.

Georgia Boot Offers Three Styles Of Athens SuperLyte Boots For Light Duty Work

Finding the right pair of work boots for the job can seem like a laborious task. There are, after all, so many to choose from. If you’re working in a heavy-duty environment like a construction site, you have plenty of options, but what if your needs are more on the lighter side? Find out how Georgia Boot Athens SuperLyte Work Boots aim to stand the test of time and provide you with all-day comfort for lighter-duty jobs.

Georgia Boot Athens SuperLyte Work Boots: The Big Deal

Georgia Boots emphasizes a lightweight design with the introduction of this line. How light? The Moc Toe Chelsea style is the lightest at 2.6 pounds per size 10 pair. That’s just under 21 ounces per boot, which is pretty dang light (that’s a technical term, by the way) for a work boot.

All Athens SuperLyte work boots are constructed with Crazy Horse full-grain leather for long-term durability. Georgia Boot designed them with abrasion-resistant dual-density EVA and Carbo-Tec rubber on the outsoles. These boots also carry an ASTM F2892 electrical hazard classification thanks to their nail-free design.

They offer three different styles giving you the option of boots with or without laces. All three styles feature the Georgia waterproof system, which keeps your feet cool and dry by allowing air in and keeping water out.

Moc Toe Hiker Style

The 6-inch Moc-Toe (GB00547) includes eyelet and hook hardware, giving you a laced-up style. They feature a padded collar and tongue, with Advanced Memory Polyurethane (AMP) insoles for a comfortable fit. They weigh 2.9 pounds per size 10 pair (23 ounces per boot).

Moc Toe Pull-On

If you’re in need of something on the taller side, the 11-inch Moc-Toe pull-on boots (GB00549) might be the pair for you. They feature grip panels on the side for an easy pull-on and a back zipper to make accessibility even easier. They’re also constructed using no metal material or parts, which is perfect for working in environments that require you to routinely pass through metal detectors. You do have the option to include an alloy toe in these boots, though.

These are the heaviest of the group. “Heavy” is a relative term in lightweight boots, though. A size 10 pair weighs 3.4 pounds or 27 ounces per boot. If you want the alloy toe, add 3 ounces per boot.

Moc Toe Chelsea

Like the 11-inch variety, the Moc-Toe Chelsea (GB00548) boots feature twin side panels for easy pull-on. These boots are also non-metallic, waterproof, and feature an AMP insole. They are the lightest model in the SuperLyte collection, at just 2.6 pounds (for a size 10 pair).

Additional Features

• Stretch gusset technology
• Georgia Anchor Disk for added arch support
• Fiberglass shank
• Cement construction

Georgia Boot Athens SuperLyte Work Boots Price

You can get these boots direct from Georgia Boot or through a number of retailers. We found the entire line at the lowest prices from Amazon. Here are the retail prices for each style:

• Hiker Style: $197
• Chelsea: $185
• Pull On: $208
• Pull On with Alloy Safety Toe: $225

The post Georgia Boot Athens SuperLyte Work Boots appeared first on Pro Tool Reviews.

Ah, the hard hat. It’s a requirement on most jobsites and a constant source of complaint for some Pros. However, not every design is uncomfortable. We got our team together to share our recommendations for the coolest and most comfortable hard hats.

Before we dive in, there’s one thing that all of these hard hats have in common: safety is the number one priority. It doesn’t do you any good to be cool and comfortable if your PPE compromises protection to give it to you. For safety purposes, we’re focusing on Type II hard hats and helmets that provide top and side impact protection as our top recommendations. We also have several Type I recommendations if you don’t want or need maximum protection.

Have a hard hat you love that we didn’t include? Let us know about your top choice in the comments below!

Keys To The Coolest and Most Comfortable Hard Hat

Vented Vs Non-Vented Hard Hats

In the hard hat world, there are vented and non-vented versions spread across three major classes. Class C vented hard hats are conductive because the openings provide a pathway for electricity to reach your head. For obvious reasons, electricians have to avoid these.

Class E non-vented hard hats are the way to go for electrical work. They’re tested to 20,000 volts, so they’re even valid in high-voltage areas.

Class G is more a general-purpose non-vented hard hat. These aren’t tested to the same high-voltage standards as Class C, but they avoid the openings that create electrical pathways.

The jobsite you’re working on will have specific regulations as to which are appropriate. If you’re allowed to wear a vented hard hat, you’ll get the best cooling from that style. Openings in the top allow heat to escape from your head and in some cases, allow breezes to move cooler air through it.

Suspension

Hard hats have a suspension system creating a barrier between the fit on top of your head and the actual helmet. Some hard hats have a layer of foam in between to provide additional protection.

In general, more suspension points are more comfortable because it spreads the weight load out better, reducing pressure on each point. Many hard hats have 4-point suspensions. Look for 6-point or greater to improve comfort.

Weight

One of the biggest factors in hard hat comfort is weight. Not only does it affect how much pressure is on your head at the suspension points, but your neck muscles have to manage the additional weight all day. Needless to say, a lighter model makes for a more comfortable hard hat.

Coolest and Most Comfortable Hard Hat Overall

WaveCel T2+ Max Type 2 Full Brim Hard Hat

While WaveCel’s T2+ Max hard hat technically has a 4-point suspension system, that’s its only downside. We say “technically” because the pad rests directly on the WaveCel material so it spreads the weight out better than other 4-point systems.

It has a dial fit system with soft foam padding for the front and top of the suspension with a rubberized rear pad.

What makes it so different from its competitors is WaveCel technology. First designed for cycling (no, I don’t have one yet, and yes, I want one!), it replaces higher-density foam protection with a wave-shaped structure. By using that shape, it provides outstanding protection while reducing weight to just 17 ounces and maximizing airflow.

Even the top vents are different than most. A series of side vents primarily promote heat escape while large rear vents allow breezes to roll across your head.

Better yet, the WaveCel T2+ Max is Made in the USA.

• Type 2
• Class C vented
• 17 ounces
• 4-point suspension
• WaveCel protection system
• Lower profile reduces bumps
• WaveCel accessory rails
• Standard accessory slots
• Optional chin strap
• Dial fit system with vertical height adjustment
• 5 color choices
• Customization available
• Made in the USA

If you need a Class E hard hat, WaveCel has you covered there as well. Look for the T2+ Pro as your Type 2, Class E non-vented option.

More Coolest And Most Comfortable Hard Hat Recommendations

Milwaukee Type 2 Front Brim Safety Helmet

Milwaukee’s Type 2 helmet options aren’t quite as light as WaveCel’s, but they do an excellent job of promoting airflow. 26 individual vents in the top of the Class 2 version allow for heat to escape and moving air to flow in. Even if you’re going with the Class E, large cutouts in the foam protection layer leave a nice air gap.

• Type 2
• Class C vented (Class E non-vented also available)
• 20 ounces
• 4-point suspension
• Dial fit system
• Foam protection layer
• Antimicrobial liner
• Chin strap included
• BOLT accessory compatible (BOLT marker clip headlamp mount included)
• 8 color options
• Customization available
• Made in the USA with global materials
• Also available with no brim

MSA Super V Type 2 Fas-Trac III Hard Hat

MSA’s Super V design is massively popular. The V-shape on top of the helmet help deflect objects away and offers more protection than a smooth shell. On the comfort side, MSA goes with a 4-point suspension and it doesn’t have as much padding as our other recommendations. However, it does have a front sweatband and rear rubberized pad.

The major highlight is the Fas-Trac III design. It allows you to easily adjust the suspension’s straps forward or back and has an easy dial fit system. With its lower price tag, it strikes a balance between the plush comfort of our other recommendations and your PPE budget.

• Type 2
• Class E non-vented
• 21 ounces
• Fas-Trac III 4-point suspension
• Dial fit system
• V-Gard deflects objects and adds protection
• Padded sweatband liner
• Standard accessory compatible
• 5 color options
• Customization available

Coolest and Most Comfortable Type 1 Hard Hat

If you don’t want or need the side impact protection of a Type 2 hard hat, your choices for the coolest and most comfortable hard hat grow tremendously. Plus, they tend to be lighter and less expensive. Below are a few of our favorites.

Milwaukee 6-Point Suspension Type 1 Full Brim Hard Hat

There are a few reasons to give Milwaukee’s latest hard a shot for the coolest and most comfortable Type 1 hard hat. Its starts with weight. At just 15 ounces, it’s the lightest on our list and that makes a big difference. It also sports a 6-point suspension system, up from the 4-point models that the rest of the Milwaukee hard hat line offers. This model also offers a larger ratcheting range than most, meaning it can fit more head sizes. Plus, the price tag is lower than our other top choices.

The one downside is that the vents in this model don’t promote as much airflow as some of the others on our list.

• Type 1
• Class C vented (Class E non-vented also available)
• 15 ounces
• 6-point suspension
• Dial fit system
• Padded sweatband and top cap
• BOLT accessory compatible
• BOLT reversible headlamp mount and marker clip included
• Standard accessory compatible
• Also available in front brim style
• 8 colors available
• Customization available
• Made in the USA with global materials

Bullard Cen10 Type 1 Safety Helmet

Bullard does a couple of things differently that specifically affect the comfort of its Cen10 hard hat. Rather than using a traditional suspension, there’s a foam insert to spread the weight out. They also include a comfort liner between the foam and your head that provides more cushioning than most hard hats.

The helmet itself has a sports styling to it with no brim. At the moment, there are no front or full-brim options, so keep that in mind if you prefer either of those.

• Type 1
• Class C vented (Class E non-vented also available)
• 18 ounces
• Foam insert
• Dial fit system
• Chin strap included
• Padded sweatband and top liner
• Bullard accessory compatible
• Standard accessory compatible
• 7 colors available

Klein Premium KARBN Type 1 Full Brim Hard Hat

Klein has a wide range of hard hats available and we really like their KARBN series. Aside from the look, they feature a 6-point suspension, a padded sweatband covering the front and sides, a soft rear pad, a padded cap, and even a softer material on the chinstrap. Vents cut into the sides promote airflow and can be closed on cold or rainy days.

Klein also has a rechargeable hard hat fan you can add to their models. While it adds some airflow, it comes at a cost of nearly 7 more ounces of weight. We haven’t tested it to check the airflow for ourselves, and user feedback has been mixed. That said, it’s an option that sets Klein hard hats apart.

• Type 1
• Class C vented (Class E non-vented also available)
• 19 ounces
• 6-point suspension
• Dial fit system
• Padded sweatband and top cap
• Softer chin strap
• Integrated headlamp clip on front and rear (available with or without headlamp)
• Standard accessory compatible
• Also available in safety helmet style

The post Coolest and Most Comfortable Hard Hats For Pros 2022 appeared first on Pro Tool Reviews.

Ryobi Introduces USB Lithium Flashlight To Its Lighting Solution Lineup

Having a reliable flashlight around the house is pretty important, whether it be for emergencies, or looking for that tiny item you dropped under the couch. Ryobi’s latest entry into its lighting lineup has a lot going for it. You may be thinking… how much is there to talk about? It’s just a flashlight. But there’s actually a lot to discuss with the Ryobi USB Lithium LED Flashlight. We got some hands-on experience to show you exactly what to expect.

Using the Ryobi USB Lithium LED Flashlight

Output

This flashlight has a maximum light output of 600 lumens on high and 100 lumens on low. It features three light settings— high, low, and strobe— that let you toggle between the best light configuration for the job. The strobe setting rapidly toggles between high and low settings, although it’s slower than most standard strobe lights on the market.

Click the power button to cycle between high, low, and off, and hold the button to get the strobe function.

Runtime

This flashlight is part of Ryobi’s USB Lithium lineup, so the battery recharges via the included USB-C power cord. Finding new AA or AAA batteries to power your flashlight is now a thing of the past.

On the low setting, you can expect to get up to 18 hours of continuous runtime. That’s more than enough time to take it on a weekend camping trip or to simply leave it in a drawer at home until you need it.

If you’re using it in high most of the time like we are, the runtime obviously drops. By our watch, we were able to run on high for 2 hours, 11 minutes. At that point, it gave us a low battery blink, dropped into low mode and ran for another 8 minutes before shutting down.

Weather-Resistant

An IP54 rating protects this flashlight against dust and water, so you never have to worry about it quitting on you in dry and dusty or rainy conditions. A gasket below the twist cap ensures dirt and moisture don’t get to the battery compartment.

Roll Over… Or Not

The size and weight of the Ryobi USB Lithium LED Flashlight is perfect for storing in your toolbox, catch-all kitchen drawer, or glove box. It’s just over 5 1/2 inches long and weighs 538 ounces with the battery.

One feature we love about the physical design is that this flashlight’s surfaces all have flat edges to them. If you need to set it down, it’s not going to roll away on you. You can stand it up vertically on the top or the bottom, too

Belt Clip

Whether you’re climbing up into the attic or getting low into a crawl space, there’s a belt clip to free up a hand. It’s a stout metal design and doesn’t bend out easily the way some clips do.

Ryobi USB Lithium LED Flashlight Price

This flashlight retails for $39.97 and includes the tool, the USB Lithium battery, and a USB power cord. It will be available exclusively at The Home Depot starting in October 2022. Ryobi backs your purchase with a 2-year warranty.

The Bottom Line

A 600-lumen rechargeable LED flashlight for less than $40? Yeah, we’ll take that. Thanks to its smart design and a battery that’s compatible with an increasing line of helpful household tools, the Ryobi USB Lithium LED Flashlight is an excellent all-around choice for your home, vehicle, boat, or toolbox.

Specifications

• Model: Ryobi FVL51K
• Length: 5.5 in
• Width: 1.5 in
• Height: 1.5 in
• Battery capacity: 2.0Ah
• USB cable length: 19 in
• Voltage: 4V

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Red Wing’s EcoLite Hiker Work Boots Combine Renewable Resources With Lightweight Comfort

Some of us work in a field that requires footwear a little stronger than a traditional sneaker, but not as heavy-duty as a rugged work boot. If this describes you, Red Wing may have exactly what you’re looking for. Find out how the Red Wing EcoLite Hiker Work Boots combine a lightweight design with the protection you need for lighter-duty work.

Red Wing EcoLite Hiker Work Boots: The Big Deal

There are quite a few details that make this work boot stand out from the crowd. For starters, Red Wing designed them using 25% sustainable and recycled materials. The uppers are comprised of 50% discarded plastic bottles, and the midsoles contain renewable sugarcane for cushioning and comfort. 30% recycled rubber also makes up the outsoles.

Then there’s the BOA Fit System. If you’ve never owned a shoe that features this lace-replacement system, it’s an easy concept to grasp. You simply push to engage the system and turn the dial to adjust tighter or looser to a fit that feels right for you. The nice thing about this is that you can adjust each shoe’s fastening separately without having to retie laces to a specific tightness.

Suitability

Red Wing tells us that these work boots’ lightweight design works best for light-duty applications such as warehousing, manufacturing, and service. If you work on a construction site or another place where your feet need more heavy-duty protection, you’ll want something more rugged.

That’s not to say that these boots don’t have their fair share of safety features. The Red Wing EcoLite Hiker work boots include a Vibram Litebase outsole, which makes them slip- and abrasion-resistant. The outsoles are also HRO (Heat Resistant Outsole) designated, making them resistant to melting at temperatures up to 475°F.

Additionally, they meet the ASTM safety standard for electrical hazard protection and have an aluminum safety toe.

Additional Features

• Available in sizes 6 to 15 in half-size increments
• Three width options: Regular, Wide EE, and Wide H

Red Wing EcoLite Hiker Work Boots Price

These work shoes retail for $224.99 and you can find them at any authorized Red Wing retailer. Red Wing offers a 30-day comfort guarantee, as well as a 1-year manufacturer warranty.

Specifications

• Model: Red Wing 2283
• Style: Hiker
• Height: 4 in
• Construction: Cement
• Footbed: Removable EVA
• Weight: 2 lb 2 oz

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Truewerk Double-Stitch T1 Werkshort Retains What We Love About the Pants

The Truewerk Double-Stitch T1 Werkshort is nearly identical to their T2 Werkpant, just as a short. That’s a really good thing because it means I get to keep all the same pockets and features.  The material features a combination of polyester, nylon, and spandex to produce a 4-way stretch and is treated with a durable waterproof coating for days when the weather is less than ideal. Double stitching is in the name and it’s everywhere along with reinforcement in areas that are prone to higher stress from stretching.

Truewerk T1 Werkshort Functional Pockets

Functional pockets are in most of the traditional places with a couple of bonuses. You have your traditional right and left deep pockets. On the upper right side, you’ll find a shallow zippered pocket. It’s great for storing your keys or any other small items you don’t want to get wet. Your cell phone is going to be a bit too big for it unless you’re carrying a flip phone though. The knife and pen pocket on the lower right are where you’ll find my Kershaw Blur and ZT Tactical Pen spending most of their day.

On the lower left, you have a deep pocket. This has a hooded, solid-holding Velcro closure that protects the contents from falling water. It also has a loop if you need to clip anything below your waistline. There’s just one rear pocket on the right side that zippers closed. It’s slightly offset toward your hip which I’ve come to really appreciate.

Comfort and Fit

We can’t overstate the comfort level of these shorts. They fit and feel like you’re wearing a board short style swimsuit to work every day. Yeah, they’re really lightweight and breathable. There are a couple of things I’d like to see changed, the first being the button fly. I’d much rather have a zipper when it comes to taking care of business around porcelain. The tie at the top is also a bit curious. It tightens the shorts well enough but is in the way a little bit if you want to wear a belt, which I do. Neither of these is anywhere close to deal-breakers, just points you’ll want to be aware of.

Like the other workwear that Truewerk has developed, I’m a huge fan of the summer lineup. I love the fit that’s geared toward guys that are more athletic and the technical nature makes it so much more comfortable than what’s traditionally been available.

Truewerk Double-Stitch T1 Werkshort Specifications

• Material: 50% polyester, 40% nylon, 10% spandex
• Sizes: 28-44 waist
• Colors: Deep Grey, Navy, Sand
• Style: 9″ or 11″
• Pockets: Traditional front (left and right), shallow hip pocket (right), deep Velcro pocket (left), knife and pen pockets (right), rear pocket (left)
• Riveted pocket corners
• Price: $69

Final Thoughts

Truewerk’s gear does come at a premium price point. If you’re a professional, you really need to take a look at these. If your work lends itself to technical gear, it’s worth your time to check these out.

The post Truewerk T1 Werkshort Review appeared first on Pro Tool Reviews.

Keep Dirt and Debris Out of Your Eyes with Klein Gasket Safety Glasses

Someone has to do the world’s dirty jobs, but your eyes shouldn’t suffer because of it. Many safety glasses you’ll find on the market don’t include a gasket to protect your eyes from the dirt and debris that comes with being on the jobsite. Find out how the Klein Gasket Safety Glasses provide an extra layer of security to help keep you protected.

Klein Gasket Safety Glasses: The Big Deal

These glasses feature a foam inner gasket and nylon strap that double to create a tight, comfortable seal around your eyes. The gasket and strap are removable, so if you’re not doing work that requires that level of eye protection, they can easily come off. This also makes them replaceable if you ever need to purchase another gasket.

These glasses have polycarbonate lenses that provide scratch resistance and clarity thanks to their durable anti-fog coating. Additionally, the lenses were tested for minimal distortion to ensure uncompromised vision on the job.

The Klein Gasket Safety Glasses are also impact-protection tested to the latest ANSI and CSA eyewear standards. On top of that, they provide UV protection that effectively blocks 99.9% of harmful UV rays. You have the choice between clear or shaded lenses, which helps if you’re working outside in the sun all day.

Additional Features

• Available in clear or tinted lens style
• Includes a microfiber storage pouch that doubles as a cleaning cloth
• Non-slip rubber nose piece and temple tips for a secure fit
• Optional breakaway lanyard, hard case, and replacement gasket/strap sold separately

Price

Both models of Klein Gasket Safety Glasses (shaded or clear) retail for $15.99. Klein also sells replacement gaskets and straps, which retail for $3.99. Klein backs your purchase with a lifetime warranty.

Specifications

• Model: Klein Tools 60470 / 60471
• Weight: 0.08 lbs
• Frame material: Plastic

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Ariat WorkHog XT BOA Work Boots Meld Cowboy-styling with Modern Tech

When you’re constantly searching for the best work boots you tend to pay attention to anything out of the ordinary. When our managing editor approached me about trying out the Ariat WorkHog XT BOA Work Boots. Wait…cowboy-style work boots with a BOA Fit System? I couldn’t say no. I wanted to know if that would make give Ariat WorkHog XT boots more adjustability without getting in the way.

Pros

• Super-comfortable heel
• BOA Fit System lets you control the snugness
• Excellent arch support
• True-to-size fit
• Hybrid “cowboy boot” look
• Goodyear welt construction

Cons

• Requires boot-cut jeans or work pants

Ariat WorkHog XT BOA Work Boots Overall Design

I’ve always appreciated traditional cowboy boots for their inherent comfort and design. Merging that design into a work boot intrigues me. While several different bootmakers do this. Ariat has a long history of making high-quality western boots. Naturally, a company that goes from those roots toward a work boot stands to overshadow those companies which don’t have a lot of experience making western-style footwear.

As a soft-toe boot, the Ariat WorkHog XT BOA Work Boots get you really close to the look of a square-toe western boot. They then add lots of features to help you stay comfortable regardless of what the jobsite tosses your way.

Build Quality

To address build quality on this boot we need to look outside and inside. Starting at the bottom you get a Goodyear welt construction. We prefer this for its excellent durability, water resistance, and longevity. It may require some breaking, but it holds up much better than cement construction. You can find the latter on a lot of mainstream work boots.

The ATS Max system combines roughly 8 layers—perhaps more—to deliver a truly comfortable experience. Under your feet, you have a moisture-wicking layer with Agion antimicrobial technology to reduce odor build-up. A gel-cushioned footbed comes next and softens the impact of your foot during each step.

A Smart Rebound layer dissipates pressure in the forefoot and further cushions the heel. For stability, Ariat employs a forked shank. All of this sits atop a flexible Duratread outsole that resists acids and oils. It also has just the right amount of grip, so you don’t slide around on dusty concrete.

With no toe cap, this boot maintains a more traditional look that we really like. As a soft-toe boot, it also doesn’t create that overly large squared-off boxy look many steel-toe boots in this style have.

The sides of the boot use full-grain leather and feature a six-row stitch pattern for the design. You can get these boots in any color you want—provided you want Aged Bark. If you can only have one color, this one’s not bad!

Additional Design Features

• Waterproof PRO construction with an impermeable barrier
• Mesh lining
• Removable Energy Max anti-fatigue insole
• 90° heel

Certifications

• ASTM F2892-18 EH (electrical hazard) rated

Comfort

I typically wear a wedge boot like the Keen Utility Cincinnati. The greater surface contact area spreads out your weight and gives you lots of cushion. This helps a bunch when working on hard surfaces—we’re talking to you, warehouse workers!

The multiple layers that make up the Ariat ATS Max system really make this a comfortable boot to wear. The heel almost feels like you sink into it a little when you walk. The Ariat WorkHog XT BOA work boots also nail the arch support.

I wore these boots over a period of several weeks. I kept coming back to just how well they fit my feet regardless of what I was doing. Standing in the shop, running a mower, or driving—they simply felt comfortable all the time.

Adjusting the BOA Fit System

The BOA Fit System gives you just one more way to dial in the fit. With it, you can tighten the area right above your midfoot area. As this is where most of your foot tendons fall, it helps to get this right—and not too tight. I found myself just slightly adjusting the BOA Fit System after slipping my foot into the boot. After a while, I determined that I needed just a single 360-degree turn to get a comfortable fit. Pulling the BOA dial out releases it immediately.

If you want to mess with the insole, the removable Energy Max anti-fatigue insole lets you customize the boot further.

Fit

I wear a size 9.5 in both work boots and shoes. Ariat stocks these boots in sizes ranging from 7-15 in both D and EE widths. That should cover a lot of people.

The Ariat WorkHog XT BOA work boots run true to size so they should be easy to order. Stick with the size you normally wear, and you should do well.

Ariat WorkHog XT BOA Work Boots Pricing

Given the Goodyear welt construction, attention to detail, and excellent design, the ~$285 retail price presented no surprise. In addition to these soft toe boots, you can get the WorkHog XT BOA line in Carbon Toe, Waterproof Carbon Tie, and a more traditional design with carbon toe and rubberized toe cap.

The Bottom Line

Ariat has a history of making excellent footwear—from cowboy boots to traditional work boots and even casual wear. The cowboy boot style and BOA Fit System technology stand out among the competition. If you like western wear boots but need durability for a workplace environment, we highly suggest giving these a try.

The post Ariat WorkHog XT BOA Work Boots Review appeared first on Pro Tool Reviews.

Klein Gives You The Knee Protection You Need With The Comfort You Deserve

Despite offering much-needed protection when working on the ground, messing with knee pad straps can be a real annoyance. They tend to become loose and slip off of your knee, which can make you just want to avoid them altogether. Klein hopes to change this with its knee pad sleeves. Find out how they can keep your knees protected in any situation.

Klein Knee Pad Sleeves: The Big Deal

The Klein Knee Pad Sleeves let you avoid the typical behind-the-knee strap design present in many knee pads on the market. Instead, they use a flexible, breathable sleeve design to help the pad stay in place. Better yet, you can wear them over or under your pants, making them versatile in any working situation that puts pressure on your knees.

There are two different pad designs offering different levels of protection. The lightweight knee pads use EVA material to give you a base layer of padded protection.

The heavy-duty knee pads, on the other hand, incorporate three layers of padding (an anti-abrasion layer, impact-absorbing polyurethane padding, and neoprene comfort foam) to give you protection against harder or uneven surfaces like gravel or concrete.

Both models contour to your leg to offer all-day comfort. They also use a silicone upper cuff to make them slip-resistant.

Additional Features

• Both styles are available in two sizes: M/L and L/XL
• Lightweight, breathable mesh back

Klein Knee Pad Sleeves Price

The lightweight knee pads retail for $19.97, and the heavy-duty ones sell for $39.99. Each model is sold as a pair. Additionally, Klein backs your purchase with a lifetime warranty.

Specifications

• Models: Klein 60611; 60511; 60492; 60592
• Knee pad material: Foam
• Finish: Black

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