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The Best Lineman Boots Picked by Experts in 2024

Two linemen in booths on cranes working on a powerline in the daytime.

We’ve compiled a list of the best 7 lineman boots recommended by experts in this article. Working as a lineman requires you to work in challenging and hazardous conditions, including climbing high poles and navigating treacherous terrains. Whether it’s climbing boots with the safety toes you need or waterproof options for winter weather, we’ve got you covered.

Using regular work boots as a lineman can be extremely dangerous for your feet. A recent survey by the International Brotherhood of Electrical Workers found that over 70% of linemen reported experiencing foot pain on the job. So, to keep yourself safe and comfortable, you’ll need the right gear, including specialized lineman boots, for the task. Unlike regular work boots, these boots can withstand the rigorous demands of your work. They’re made of high-quality leather and offer remarkable durability and protection against cuts and abrasions. 

They also come with steel/composite safety toes to protect you from compression injuries caused by falling items. Moreover, their high ankle support with heel counters provides stability on uneven terrain and prevents ankle injuries. By swapping out your regular boots for a good pair of lineman shoes, you can protect your feet and prevent injuries! 

Why You Need Good Quality Lineman Boots

As a lineman, you need to invest in the best boots available to ensure safety and comfort while on the job. Without proper equipment, linemen are exposed to risks, like electrical hazards and falling objects, that can cause severe injuries or fatalities.

Lineman boots offer unique features that cater to the job’s demands, providing protection and stability. Here are a few features that distinguish them from regular work boots:

  • Durable and Sturdy Materials – They’re made from strong and sturdy reinforced materials like leather that offer an extra layer of defense against abrasions, cuts, and other piercing injuries. These materials can also withstand the challenging demands of a lineman’s job and resist wear and tear. 
  • Steel Shanks – Lineman boots with steel shanks offer extra support when climbing or standing on poles.
  • High Ankle Support – These boots have high ankles to protect against sprains while providing extra stability, reducing the risk of trips and falls. 
  • Electrical Hazard Insulation – Lineman boots provide insulation to protect against electrical shock, a significant hazard in the line work industry.

Lineman boots have a brief history, dating back to the early 1900s when the electrical industry was just getting started. Linemen would often wear regular work boots or even sneakers on the job. However, as the industry grew, companies began to develop specialized boots for linemen to ensure their safety on the job.

Investing in high-quality boots ensures you have the right gear to prevent injuries, stay comfortable, and work efficiently. They provide support, protection, and durability, making them a necessary piece of equipment for linemen.

By investing in your boots, you’re safeguarding your health and ensuring that you can carry out your job duties with ease and comfort.

The Best Lineman Boots

 

Best Lineman Boots Overall – Carhartt Men’s 10″ Yukon PAC Composite Toe Boot

Product photo of Carhartt Men's 10" Yukon PAC Composite Toe Boots, tall and brown with black sole.

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These are high-quality work boots designed for tough environments. They’re 100% leather and have a rubber sole for superior traction. The boot shaft measures approximately 10″ from the arch, providing ample coverage and support.

Just like all the best lineman climbing boots with safety toes, these boots feature a composite safety toe that meets ASTM F2413-18 standards for impact and compression hazards. The electrical hazard safety toe provides secondary protection against incidental contact with 18,000 volts or less electrical circuits under dry conditions.

The boots also feature Storm Defender waterproof breathable protection, keeping your feet dry in most wet conditions. The waterproof and breathable membrane promotes airflow and circulation, ensuring your feet stay dry and comfortable throughout the day.

Pros

  • Maximum impact protection with a composite safety toe
  • Spectacular protection against electrical and compression hazards
  • Waterproof and breathable
  • Well-insulated
  • Maximum ankle stability, side impact protection, and heel protection durability 
  • Durable and long-lasting

Cons

  • Slightly heavier 
  • Longer break-in period 

What People Are Saying

A user reported that this boot is “ideal for cold weather conditions and provides excellent coverage. The eyelets are very sturdy and can withstand wear and tear.”

Another user who tried the shoes out for 30 days reported that “they keep my feet warm and comfortable.” They also raved about the shoes’ waterproof construction and their “top-notch durability.”

Honorable Mentions

If the boots above aren’t for you, try these:

Reebok Work Men’s Rapid Response RB8678

IODSON Men’s Military Tactical Boots

 

Best Climbing Boots for Lineman – Columbia Men’s Newton Ridge Plus Ii Suede Wp Hiking Boot

Product photo of Columbia Men's Newton Ridge Plus Ii Suede Wp Hiking Boot, ankle-high black suede boot.

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These boots are versatile and durable, perfect for any outdoor adventure. The rubber sole ensures excellent traction on any terrain, making this boot ideal for hiking and other outdoor activities.

These lineman boots feature advanced technology, including a lightweight midsole that provides long-lasting comfort, superior cushioning, and high energy return. The high-traction grip outsole is designed to match specific environments, providing excellent traction on various surfaces.

Pros

  • Waterproof suede and leather construction. 
  • Excellent traction on all terrains
  • Lightweight midsole provides high energy return
  • Superior cushioning
  • High-traction grip outsole 
  • Adjustable and secure fit

Cons

  • Lacks long-term durability

What People Are Saying

Someone shared that these shoes “are my favorite for everyday wear, including while hunting. They keep my feet dry all day.” However, they noted, “the suede material tends to wear out quickly.”

Another customer wrote, “I do a lot of hiking on rocky mountains and uneven dirt roads. These boots finally relieved the pain in my sore ankles.

Honorable Mentions

If those boots aren’t your style, check out these alternatives:

Skechers Men’s Relment-Pelmo Hiking Boot

POLAR SOLDIER Men’s Hiking Boots

 

Best Insulated Lineman Boots – KEEN Utility Men’s Davenport 6″ Composite Toe Work Boot

Product photo of KEEN Utility Men's Davenport 6" Composite Toe Work Boot, dark gray with cutout designs.

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KEEN Utility Men’s Davenport 6″ Composite Toe Work Boot provides comfort and safety. The boots are constructed using 100% synthetic materials and feature a rubber sole for enhanced grip.

Warm insulation provides warmth in colder environments. The non-metallic construction of the boots allows for easy passage through metal detectors, making them ideal for highly-secured areas.

Pros

  • Lighter composite toes provide superior comfort
  • Waterproof and breathable membrane liner 
  • Oil- and slip-resistant outsole provides reliable traction
  • Excellent insulation 
  • Non-metallic construction allows for easy passage through metal detectors
  • Protection against electrical hazards

Cons

  • Provide lesser support
  • Slightly heavier due to heavy insulation

What People Are Saying

A user living in Detroit and working outside all winter reported that “the Keen boots exceeded my expectations by keeping my feet cozy even in single-digit weather.”

A lineman who purchased these boots reported that “they are excellent for substation work. They perform exceptionally well on dirt and gravel surfaces, as well as in rainy and snowy conditions.” They also mentioned that the boots are “comfortable, provide ample support, and stay warm when paired with good socks during winter.”

Honorable Mentions

If the previous boots didn’t catch your eye, these might. They can also serve as boots for motorcycle linemen:

Thorogood Men’s Infinity FD Series 8”

ARIAT Men’s Powerline Pull-on

 

Best Power Lineman Boots – Ariat Men’s Powerline 8″ Boots

Product photo of Ariat Men's Powerline 8" Boots, tall ankle and all brown with black sole.

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Made from 100% leather, the Ariat Men’s Powerline 8″ feature a man-made sole and a waterproof Pro construction with full-grain leather. The removable kiltie and lightly padded protective collar provide additional comfort and support for the foot.

These boots are a worthwhile investment for those who need to prioritize safety and comfort in their work boots.

Pros

  • Waterproof Pro construction 
  • Removable kiltie and lightly padded protective collar 
  • Excellent support and stability
  • Composite toe provides maximum protection 
  • Highly durable with leather lining

Cons

  • Expensive
  • Long break-in time

What People Are Saying

One person reported that they bought the boots on a recommendation from their dad. “I was extremely satisfied with their decision,” they wrote.“The boots are fantastic.”

Another user bought these boots for her husband, whose work requires a lot of leg labor. She reported,“They provide him with excellent toe protection, and his toes have never felt safer!”

Honorable Mentions

If those boots didn’t make the cut for you, try these on for size:

Thorogood Men’s V-Series 8”

Timberland PRO Men’s Power Welt 6″ Waterproof Steel Toe Boots

 

Best Winter Lineman Boots – Timberland PRO Men’s Endurance Work Boot

Product photo of Timberland PRO Men's Endurance Work Boot, brown leather and ankle-high with black sole and orange accents.

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The Timberland PRO Men’s Endurance Work Boot is a durable and sturdy work boot made from 100% leather and featuring a rubber sole.

These boots for winter feature a steel shank for structural support, which provides added stability for the feet. These shoes are designed to offer electrical hazard protection by restricting the flow of electricity between the shoe and the ground.

The dual-purpose top hardware allows for lacing customization for a comfortable and secure fit. These boots are an affordable option for those needing reliable and protective work boots.

Pros

  • Durable and sturdy with high-quality 100% leather 
  • Remarkable traction and grip 
  • Steel shank adds stability
  • Electrical hazard protection 
  • Lacing customization for a comfortable and secure fit 

Cons

  • Long break-in time 
  • Heavy 

What People Are Saying

A reviewer said they have “consistently purchased these excellent boots for the past ten years because of how comfortable and durable they are.” They specifically mentioned that the inner sole provides “a pleasant wearing experience.” However, they noted that there was some heel rub, which they found can be alleviated by stomping on the heel section before using the boots.

Another buyer commented, “These are my favorite winter boots as they offer superior insulation.”

Honorable Mentions

If those boots didn’t strike your fancy, these might be more up your alley:

Kenetrek Men’s 10″ Grizzly Insulated Pac Boot

Carhartt Men’s Ruggedflex Safety Toe Work Boot

 

Best Value Lineman Boots – Georgia Boot Men’s 8″ Loggers G7313

Product photo of Georgia Men's 8" Loggers Boot, all brown with yellow laces, tall at ankle.

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These boots are designed to withstand any work environment and weather conditions. Made from 100% leather and featuring a rubber sole, they offer durability and performance in any setting.

These boots are all-purpose and heavy-duty, ensuring they can handle any job. They offer all-day comfort, thanks to their design and construction. With a high-quality rubber sole that’s durable and excellent traction for all surfaces, these shoes are ideal for workers that have to walk 5 or more miles daily.

Pros

  • Durable and long-lasting
  • Excellent traction and grip due to rubber sole
  • All-purpose, heavy-duty performance 
  • All-day comfort 
  • Maximum coverage and protection with ankle-high shaft 

Cons

  • Long break-in time 
  • Heavy 

What People Are Saying

A buyer recently replaced their old pair of these boots after years of daily use. ”It took a few days to break in the new boots, but now they’re comfortable. As someone who spends a lot of time outside, I can confirm that these boots live up to their ‘waterproof’ claim”

Honorable Mentions

These boots might be more your speed if the others aren’t:

ARIAT Men’s Groundbreaker Square Toe Work Boot

Carhartt Men’s 8″ Waterproof Composite Toe Leather Logger Boot CML8369

 

Best Waterproof Boots for Linemen – FREE SOLDIER Waterproof Hiking Work Boots

Product photo of SOLDIER Waterproof Hiking Work Boot, black leather with cutout design.

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FREE SOLDIER Waterproof Hiking Work Boots are an excellent option for those needing a durable and protective shoe. Made with a suede leather upper that is scratch-resistant, these boots also feature an EVA midsole for lightweight cushioning and an all-terrain outsole for excellent grip.

The strengthened toe cap and heel provide complete protection and ankle support, making them suitable for tactical, military, combat, hunting, motorcycle, and airsoft use.

These boots are lightweight, practical, and fashionable, perfect for year-round indoor and outdoor use.

Pros

  • Durable and scratch-resistant suede leather upper
  • The waterproof coating keeps feet dry
  • All-terrain outsole with excellent grip and geometrical pattern design
  • Maximum protection and ankle support
  • Excellent cushioning 

Cons

  • Limited color options
  • Insufficient insulation 

What People Are Saying

A user confirmed, “These boots are of excellent quality and I can vouch for their waterproof feature.”

Another buyer raved about the shoes’ comfortable build. “They required no break-in period and were comfortable right out of the box.”

Honorable Mentions

Those boots may not be what you’re looking for, so take a look at these instead:

Timberland PRO Men’s Boondock Waterproof Steel Toe Work Boot

Thorogood Men’s 1957 Flyway 8” Waterproof

 

How to Choose the Ideal Lineman Boots

There are five factors to consider when selecting the right pair of boots for your needs:

  • Weather– Consider the weather conditions you will be working in. For winter conditions, it is essential to choose boots that provide adequate insulation and waterproofing to keep your feet warm and dry. Choose boots with breathable materials and moisture-wicking properties for summer.
  • EH Rating– EH (Electrical Hazard) rating is another essential factor when selecting lineman boots. An EH rating indicates that the boots have been tested and meet specific standards for electrical hazard protection. This is particularly important for linemen who work around electrical equipment or live wires.
  • Safety Toe– The best climbing boots for linemen come with various safety toe options, including steel, aluminum, and composite. The safety toe protects against heavy falling objects, a common risk in the line work industry.
  • Outsole– Besides having the best insoles for lineman boots, the outsole of your boots is another crucial factor to consider. It should provide excellent traction and slip resistance to prevent slips and falls on wet or slick surfaces.
  • Shank– A steel shank provides extra support and stability when climbing or standing on poles, which is crucial for linemen.

Choosing the ideal lineman boots can be daunting, given the range of options available in the market, but we’ve done the hard work for you!

The Bottom Line

Investing in high-quality lineman boots is crucial to prevent injuries and fatalities and ensure safety, comfort, and efficiency while on the job. With the right pair of lineman boots, you can work with confidence and peace of mind knowing that you are well-protected and equipped.

And since all boots have different uses, check out our list of the best landscaping boots for outdoor work, or see if any cold-weather hunting boots fit your needs in winter!

FAQs

Why do you need lineman boots?

Lineman boots are designed to provide protection against electrical hazards, sharp objects, and falls from heights. Investing in high-quality boots can prevent injuries and fatalities, making it an essential investment for anyone in the field.

What’s the difference between boots for loggers and linemen?

Although both logger and lineman boots are rugged and designed to withstand harsh conditions, there are significant differences between the two. Lineman boots provide support for climbing poles and are designed to protect against electrical hazards, while logger boots are designed to provide traction and support when working on rough terrain.

What materials are best for lineman boots?

High-quality materials such as leather, synthetic materials, and waterproof membranes are best when looking for lineman boots. These materials provide durability, protection, and comfort, making them ideal for the demanding conditions linemen work in. Look for boot brands made from top-quality materials to ensure they provide the necessary protection and support for the job.

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