what do you suggest as good footwear?

I always Wear Tennis Shoes...
But I've always pulled Reefer/Van.

I guess if I did Flats I might consider Boots with Steel Toes.

 

Sperry boat shoes most of the time when out of the truck or loading, steel toe kodiaks if I have to, knee high and separate insulated lining in rubber boots that are good for cold, wet or barnyard, and a pair of greb sorrels if I'm out in -20+ weather. Usually barefoot in the truck. Flip flops for shower shoes. My wife laughs at me for all my clothes but- you can do any job if you have the proper equipment!

 

I have a high top sneaker, steel toe work boots, cowboy boots for two stepping (don't laugh, lots of girls love to have a dancing partner. I am a much sought after commodity on the dance floor...guess Toby Keith was right, it does pay to be the only cowboy in the bar!), but I made a terrible mistake.
Was in Minnesota doing some work outside. Was out of the truck for an hour or so working in deep snow. Got in the truck to start driving and realized that I couldn't feel my feet. Turned the heat on so I could hardly breath, but couldn't get my feet to thaw. Pulled over and parked and wrapped my feet in an electric blanket and went to sleep. Feet thawed with no permanent damage. Bought a pair of insulated boots and insulated socks. Gotta protect the dogs.

 

Comfortable boots in winter, tennis shoes in summer. No loading or it would be boots all the time.
And if I catch you in flop flops . . .

Don't forget good socks in winter time, I have some el pacca socks that are toasty.

 

See this recent thread by STexan on the subject of American Made Work Boots
Some good leads there, as to work boots.

 

I dive in reebok walking shoes. I use reebok composite toe side zipper boots during the summer and insulated boots in the winter

 

There are plenty of boots of all types that are "work boots" that have a rubber, oil resistant sole and it seems like there are several women's models to choose from. What about "Fat Baby's"? They have rubber soles and women seem to like them for comfort and durability.

But my favorite women's work boot is ...

but they're not for everybody.

 

Composite is strong and won't "cut off your toes". The problem with steel toes is that if something mashes it down hard, then the steel stays mashed and your toes are trapped. Composite will bend and spring back into shape, or shatter if the force is hard enough (while dissipating some of the energy).

Another benefit of composite is that they will be warmer in very cold conditions. Steel conducts cold very efficiently.