New Shoes or Boots for a New Trucker

I used a pair of 11" wellingtons made by catipillar.. easy to put on, steel toes, very water resistant, good grip on trailer decks... and as comfortable as moccasins when walking. Last pair lasted a year, but I walked a lot in them.

 

Caterpillar steel toes for me. I have one pair that have finally completely given up the ghost after ten years*.

The first time I went to break in a pair, I wasn't thinking and put them on before an 18 hour day of being on my feet. When I got home, I had that sore feeling of working too long, but not the horrible rubbing of breaking in new footwear. Slap in a pair of Dr. Scholl's and you're good to go right out of the box.

My only criticism is that for some reason, my Cats always go through laces. I'm thinking from now on I'll just carry paracord in case the laces blow.


*Please note that when I say these boots have lasted 10 years, I mean I can't even use them for yardwork now. They have completely blown out now.

 

Doc Martin 8 eyes, 120 bucks. Just remember that English boot sizes are one size smaller then American so if your a 10 order a 9.

 

Redwing work shoes for everyday they are super Comfy but are kinda pricy at $130 but i gotta say it's well worth it. Second pair is a pair of wolverine steel toe, water resistant work boots i use for when it rains or snows i walked in water that was up to my ankles and my feet stayed dry. I am not a fan of big heavy work boots that's why i don't use the wolverines everyday but they are great in bad weather.

 

Mortal? Well, most shoe ware is designed for mortals.... Heheehheheheeee

Mikeeee

 

Red Wings or Florsheim just like being barefoot IMO.

 

Thanks for all the great suggestions. I am using all your replies as the basis of my search. I appreciate everyone who took the time to answer my question. I am looking forward to reading and participating in this forum.

 

+1 on the red wings make sure you get the kind you can resole. Than every 2 years instead of new boots just get them resoled.

 

Plus red swing can custom fit them to you.

 

The boots you need depend on what you do. If your thinking OTR van, boots aren't a must. If your going flatbed... You'd be smart to get a good quality boot.

Red Wing boots for me (style#4414)- about $175.00. Georgia Boot is also pretty good... You can get them at Tractor Supply.
I deliver to construction sites, steel toe is a must and 8" tall boots are a good idea as well. The ground at job sites is anything but smooth... a tall boot will help keep you from rolling your ankle. Waterproof might also be a good idea.

Whatever you do... don't cut corners on footwear. You'll be sorry if you do.

Another thought... some employers pay money towards your boot purchase. My company requires them and gives us $100 every year. It's worth checking into once you hire on with a company.

Link- http://www.redwingshoes.com/red-wing-shoe/4414-red-wing-shoes/4414-red-wing-mens-8-inch-boot-brown