In this article, we’ve reviewed and picked out the 6 best roofing shoes that provide not only exceptional comfort but also reliability. Tools like scaffolding, roofer jacks, a Pitch Hopper, and a rooftop fall arrest system do a lot to reduce risk. But never underestimate a good pair of shoes!
Roofing is considered the third most dangerous profession in the U.S. Roofers face significant risks of slips and falls. So, if you’re on the lookout for the perfect pair of shoes that’ll keep you secure and comfortable during long hours on an incline, keep reading!
Buyer’s Guide: What to Consider When Choosing Shoes for Roofing
Whether you’re working on metal roofs, shingle roofs, or steep inclines, the type of footwear you select matters. By considering things such as the roof type, weather conditions, and specific roofing tasks, you can find the perfect pair of shoes that meet all your needs. Here are a few things to keep in mind when buying roofing shoes.
1. Roof Type
It’s essential to consider the type of roof you’ll be working on when picking out roofing shoes. If you’re dealing with metal roofs, you’ll need shoes with superior traction to prevent slipping. In this case, shoes with robust rubber outsoles are your best choice.
On the other hand, if you’re working on shingle roofs, comfort and stability are key, as shingles can be tricky to navigate. So, look for shoes with extra cushioning and support.
2. Weather Conditions
If you often work in wet conditions, waterproof or water-resistant shoes are a must-have to keep your feet dry and prevent slips and accidents.
In dry conditions, superior breathability is essential to keep your feet cool and sweat-free.
3. Roofing Tasks
Consider your roofing tasks when selecting roofing shoes. If you’ll be doing a lot of climbing, look for shoes with reliable ankle support. Alternatively, if your work involves a lot of standing, prioritize cushioning for comfort.
4. Durability
Roofing is tough on footwear, so make sure to invest in shoes made with high-quality materials and construction that can withstand the demands of the job.
5. Personal Style
While functionality is important, many roofing shoes offer stylish designs. So, you can pick a shoe that not only meets your safety and comfort needs but also reflects your taste.
6. Support and Cushioning
An uncomfortable shoe will prevent you from working properly and could even result in serious injuries. Make sure to opt for shoes with proper support and cushioning, as they reduce the strain on your feet during long hours on the roof.
Overall Best Shoes for Roofing
- Best Shoes for Roofing— Timberland Pro Reaxion Composite Toe Work Sneaker Men’s | Women’s
- Best Tennis Shoes for Roofing— Reebok Unisex-Adult Nano X3
- Best Shoes for Shingles— Under Armour Charged Bandit 2 Trail Running Shoes Men’s | Women’s
- Best Shoes for Metal Roofing— Merrell Moab 2 Ventilator Hiking Shoe Men’s | Women’s
- Best Shoes for Grip and Traction— WOLVERINE Men’s Overpass CARBONMAX® 6″ Boot
- Best Shoes for a Steep Roof— Cougar Paws Men’s Peak Performer Roofing Boot
Best Shoes for Roofing— Timberland Pro Reaxion Composite Toe Work Sneaker
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The Timberland Pro Reaxion Composite Toe Work Sneaker is your all-in-one solution for roofing work! This shoe combines style, durability, and safety, making it an excellent pick for those long hours on the roof.
One excellent feature is the composite toe, which provides superior safety without the heaviness of traditional steel toes. The shoe also boasts electrical hazard protection, ensuring your safety while you work.
But it’s not just about safety; comfort matters, too. The Reaxion work sneaker particularly shines here with its breathable and abrasion-resistant nylon upper that keeps your feet dry and comfy.
Plus, the outsole is crafted from Timberland’s heat-, oil-, slip-, and abrasion-resistant All-Weather TPU, ensuring top-notch traction and durability. So, you don’t have to worry about slips and accidents when wearing the Timberland Pro Reaxion Sneaker!
Pros
- Composite toe for safety
- Electrical hazard protection
- TPU-wrapped Aerocore™ midsole offers excellent energy return
- Comfortable
- Excellent traction
- Breathable with a moisture-wicking lining
Cons
- Slightly heavier than other shoes
What People Are Saying
A satisfied customer shared, “These shoes are remarkably comfortable for an 8-hour workday on your feet. Their construction remains intact, and they are well-made.”
Another happy buyer exclaimed, “These are heavy-duty, made to last. I could wear them comfortably all day long from day one.”
Best Tennis Shoes for Roofing— Reebok Unisex-Adult Nano X3
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The Reebok Nano X3 is a great option that provides the perfect stability and cushioning needed to keep your feet fresh even after a long day of roofing.
One thing that makes Reebok Nanos stand out is their robust rubber outsoles. These outsoles are loaded with treads, providing exceptional traction. You won’t have to worry about slipping when you’ve got the Nanos on your feet!
But what truly sets these roofing shoes apart is the TPU shell on the heel. It’s not just about heel support; it’s also about keeping the shoes light. When you’re roofing, having lightweight footwear makes a world of difference, allowing you to move with ease.
Pro Tip: These shoes make you feel like you’re walking on clouds, which makes them the perfect pick for roofers needing extra comfort and cushioning.
Pros
- Exceptional traction
- Lightweight design
- TPU heel shell provides heel support without adding weight
- Excellent cushioning
- Versatile
Cons
- May feel a little stiff
What People Are Saying
A happy user shared their feedback, saying, “These sneakers are very comfortable and well made.”
Another one added, “They look great and are functional. The quality is also good, and they hold up well to the abuse.”
Best Shoes for Shingles— Under Armour Charged Bandit 2 Trail Running Shoes
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The Under Armour Charged Bandit 2 Trail Running Shoes are the best shoes for walking on shingle roofs. These shoes are a game-changer for roofers, offering the right combination of comfort and practicality to make your job easier.
These UA Charged Bandit shoes feature spectacular shock-absorbing capability. When navigating the ups and downs of a shingles roof, this feature ensures your feet stay comfortable without restricting your movement.
Moreover, these roofing shoes also boast a high-abrasion rubber outsole, providing excellent traction and guarding against sharp objects that could puncture your shoes. No need to worry about stepping on nails at the job site when you’ve got these on your feet!
But what makes them truly exceptional is their lightweight and breathable design. The engineered two-toned mesh upper construction offers excellent ventilation, keeping your feet cool even on the hottest days. Plus, the UA Storm technology treated upper is water-repellent and maintains breathability—a spectacular feature particularly great for unexpected rain showers.
Pros
- Molded sockliner ensures a snug fit
- Charged Cushioning® midsole provides spectacular responsiveness
- Durable outsole with technical trail lugs provides excellent traction
- Lightweight
- Water-repellant
Cons
- It may run a little narrow
What People Are Saying
A satisfied customer shared their thoughts, saying, “These shoes are everything you’d want from a quality pair. The fit was perfect and comfortable. They also look good, and the price is decent, too.”
Another buyer described the shoes as, “Well built, looks sturdy, and provides great support for my foot.”
Best Shoes for Metal Roofing— Merrell Moab 2 Ventilator Hiking Shoe
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When it comes to the best shoes for metal roofs, look no further than the Merrell Moab 2 Vent Hiking Shoe. Walking on metal sheets can be extremely dangerous, but with these shoes, you’ll have superior grip and unmatched comfort!
The Moab 2 Vent Hiking shoes feature Vibram branded rubber soles for excellent traction, durability, and abrasion resistance. This ensures that you stay firmly planted on metal surfaces, and some roofers report they’re good for raw OSB as well.
Additionally, these shoes boast an air cushion feature that adds an extra layer of comfort and protection. By absorbing forces and reducing stress on your muscles, joints, and tendons, it keeps you comfortable and minimizes the impact of strenuous roofing work.
Furthermore, the closed-cell foam feature keeps moisture and debris at bay. This is especially important for outdoor work, as moisture absorption can lead to slippery footing on wet days.
Overall, these are the best shoes for walking on a metal roof, and investing in them will keep you safe and protected as you work.
Pros
- Super lightweight
- Superior traction
- Durable leather suede upper
- Air cushioning reduces muscle and joint strain
- Moisture-resistant closed-cell foam maintains traction on wet days
Cons
- Insoles may need to be replaced for maximum comfort
What People Are Saying
An enthusiastic buyer wrote, “The fit of these shoes is perfect. They have excellent stability, exactly what I needed.”
A second buyer also shared their feedback, saying, “These boots provide the stability, support, and traction I was looking for. I’m extremely satisfied.”
Best Shoes for Grip and Traction— WOLVERINE Men’s Overpass CARBONMAX® 6″ Boot
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The WOLVERINE Men’s Overpass CarbonMax 6” Waterproof Work Boot is my top choice for the best roofing shoes for grip and traction. These shoes boast impressive stability and give you the confidence you need to walk on various roof surfaces.
These boots are the perfect pair for those needing extra traction, as they feature slip-resistant rubber soles. When you’re up on a roof, preventing falls and injuries is a top priority, and these boots have got you covered. The traction they provide is exceptional, even in challenging conditions.
Moreover, these best grip shoes for roofing also provide fantastic comfort, making those long days on your feet more manageable. The Contour Welt construction ensures a flexible and comfortable fit, which is a lifesaver when you’re constantly on the move.
Now, let’s talk about the Ortholite footbed. It’s like a cushion for your feet, providing ample support. And what’s great is that these boots are breathable, so you won’t have to deal with sweaty feet!
Pros
- Exceptional grip
- Comfortable and flexible Contour Welt construction
- Supportive Ortholite footbed for long workdays
- CarbonMax safety toe cap for added protection
- Durable
Cons
- May cause ankle fatigue with heavy-duty work
What People Are Saying
A satisfied customer shared, “These boots are lightweight, and after a 12-hour shift, my feet don’t get blisters. I’d recommend them.”
Another buyer expressed, “I wear these every day for work, and I find them very comfortable and light-weight, so they don’t feel burdensome.”
Best Shoes for a Steep Roof— Cougar Paws Men’s Peak Performer Boot
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The Cougar Paws Performer Boot is your go-to choice for easily conquering steep roofs. This exceptional roofing shoe is a true workhorse, combining durability, comfort, and a touch of style, making it the perfect companion for roofing adventures.
This 6″ Boot features a supple, flexible leather upper and a cushioned interior lining, ensuring that every step you take feels snug and comfortable. It also has an adjustable strap that adds an extra layer of stability!
This shoe is particularly great for inclined roofs due to its patented, replaceable traction pads. These pads deliver an outstanding grip on roof surfaces, ensuring you stay firmly planted, even on inclines that challenge ordinary footwear.
Plus, it delivers a more balanced fit and reduces foot fatigue with its redesigned outsole. You can keep working for hours without feeling the strain!
Pros
- Thermal design keeps feet cool even in scorching heat
- Adjustable strap provides a snug fit
- Resigned outsole
- Superior grip
- Cushioned interior
Cons
- Expensive
- Not true to size
What People Are Saying
One user praised these shoes, saying, “These shoes perform great. They made my confidence go sky high!”
Another one shared, “Great for home roof inspections. It gives you more stability on steeper roofing surfaces and allows for a more thorough inspection.”
Finding Shoes for Specific Foot Conditions on Shoe Guide
While our “Best of” list covers shoes that are best for your industry and workplace-related needs like slip-resistance, comfort, and durability, you may not find exactly what you need for specific foot conditions. For example, flat feet, high arches, heel spurs, achilles tendonitis, or plantar fasciitis.
Our library of shoe recommendations and insider tips for finding the best shoes for you is always growing. We’re also constantly adding new content for specialized foot conditions in different industries, all of it tirelessly reviewed, tested, and researched. Keep checking back every month!
Wrapping Up
Choosing the best shoes for roof work is essential to ensure your safety, comfort, and confidence.
If you’re looking to broaden your shoe search, you could also look into construction boots or hiking shoes, as these provide superior traction and support needed to keep your balance on the roof and prevent falls. Hiking boots also have the advantage of offering additional ankle support.
Remember that roofing is a challenging profession with a fair share of risks. A superior pair of roofing shoes will provide the high grip, unwavering durability, and reliable support necessary to keep you comfortable, safe, and confident as you navigate the challenges of roofing work. So, choose your roofing shoes wisely, and stay safe up there!
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