Roofing is a dangerous job—in 2021, it was the third most fatal occupation. But some protective measures can improve safety.
The right roofing shoes are an excellent starting point to protect against slips, falls, and other injuries.
Here, we’ll explore:
- What makes roofing shoes different from standard work shoes.
- Which features to consider when selecting a pair of shoes.
- 12 standout options for roofing shoes available in 2023.
- Advice on how to decide which model is right for you.
Ready to level up your safety, comfort, and productivity? Let’s get started.
What Makes Roofing Shoes Unique?
Roofing can be demanding and presents several hazards. Roofing shoes have certain features that set them apart from other work shoes.
They can help protect the wearer while on the job.
A crucial feature of roofing shoes is their slip-resistant soles.
Roofs can be slippery. Soles with a slip-resistant tread pattern provide good traction on various surfaces.
This is very important when working on steep or inclined roofs, with greater risk of slips and falls.
Another critical characteristic of roofing shoes is their waterproof construction.
Roofing work involves working in all weather conditions.
Roofing shoes made with leather or rubber protect the feet from moisture. This helps to keep the feet dry, ensuring hours of comfortable and safe wear.
Also, protective toe caps offer another level of safety to roofing shoes.
Toe caps are made of steel or composite materials. These caps help to protect the toes from heavy objects that may fall or roll on the roof.
Supportive design is another vital aspect of roofing shoes.
Roofing shoes often have a high-quality, ergonomic design. Features like extra ankle support help prevent the risk of falls and injuries.
Roofing shoes can be made with breathable fabrics. Roofs get hot. So, mesh helps to keep feet cool and sweat-free.
Working on a roof is taxing.
Breathable materials ensure adequate ventilation to prevent discomfort. Breathable fabrics are essential when working long hours.
Sweaty feet can lead to decreased productivity and increased risk of foot-related injuries.
How to Choose the Right Roofing Shoes
Consider these things for choosing the best roofing shoes.
Safety
Safety is the top priority when it comes to choosing roofing shoes. Look for shoes with the following:
- Protective toe caps
- Slip-resistant soles
- Electric shock resistance
Comfort
Choose roofing shoes that are comfortable to wear for long periods of time. Look for shoes with:
- Cushioned insoles
- Padded collars and tongues
- Breathable materials
- Arch support
- Memory foam insoles
Quality
Quality matters! Choose crafted shoes that use materials built to last. Look for durable materials, such as leather or rubber. Select brands with a good reputation for reliability.
It’s also a good idea to check the construction of the shoes. Ensure they are well-made and will hold up to the job’s demands. Examine the stitching and the strength of the soles.
Warranty
Some roofing shoes come with a warranty. This can show the manufacturer’s confidence in its product. A warranty can protect your investment long-term and give you peace of mind.
Reliability
Choosing roofing shoes that you can rely on to keep your feet safe and comfortable at work is important.
Look for shoes with a proven track record of reliability and customer satisfaction.
For example:
- Read online reviews from verified purchasers.
- Ask for recommendations from colleagues or industry professionals.
- Contact the manufacturer to learn more about the shoes.
Size and Fit
Proper fit is critical when buying roofing shoes. Sizes can vary between manufacturers.
Measure your feet and choose a size that fits well and provides enough room for your toes to wiggle.
If you can, try on the shoes in the store and walk around. Make sure they feel comfortable and provide the support and stability you need.
Style and Design
Safety and performance should be your top priorities when choosing roofing shoes. But you may also want to consider the style and design.
Look for shoes that match your personal preferences and fit with your work attire.
Price
Finally, consider the price of the roofing shoes you are considering.
Of course, investing in a high-quality pair of shoes that will last and protect your feet on the job is a good idea. But you should also be mindful of your budget.
Opt for shoes that offer a good balance of quality, performance, and affordability.
The Best Shoes for Roofing
The right pair of roofing shoes is essential for safety, comfort, and productivity.
There are many different options to choose from. Consider the unique needs of your job. Let your personal preferences help guide you to the best roofing shoes.
To help you make an informed decision, we have compiled a list of the top 12 roofing shoes on the market.
This list includes various options to suit different needs, preferences, and budgets. Let’s jump right into it.
WOLVERINE Men’s Overpass 6” Waterproof Work Boot
The WOLVERINE Men’s Overpass 6” Waterproof Work Boot is a reliable and durable option for roofing work.
Its waterproof leather upper keeps feet dry in wet conditions. The slip-resistant rubber sole helps to prevent falls and injuries on the job.
The Contour Welt construction of these boots allows for a flexible and comfortable fit. This helps with those long days of moving around on the roof.
The Ortholite footbed provides cushioning and support for long workdays. The boots are also breathable to help prevent sweaty feet.
And these boots are durable and built to last, making them a solid long-term investment.
Timberland “Pro Reaxion”
The Timberland “Pro Reaxion” is a stylish and rugged shoe perfect for roofing work.
Its modern design takes inspiration from high-performance Nike track shoes. The shoe is available with different textures and a fun-colored sole.
While fashionable, this shoe can withstand the demands of roofing work. Its tough construction and tried-and-true materials make this a good choice.
Timberland is known for making quality products that stand the test of time.
Georgia Boot Michelin® Latitude Tour Alloy
The Georgia Boot Michelin® Latitude Tour Alloy is a premier choice for roofing shoes.
These boots are designed to protect your feet from impacts by heavy objects.
They meet the highest impact and compression standards, ensuring your toes are well-protected.
In addition to their safety features, these boots are also lightweight. They include a breathable mesh upper, removable orthotic, and memory foam insole. This keeps feet comfortable and supported.
The slip-resistant rubber outsole provides excellent roof traction, helping prevent nasty falls. These shoes are robust enough to withstand hard wear.
They offer durable materials and sturdy construction. You can trust that it can hold up against the unrelenting demands of roofing work.
Thorogood Men’s American Heritage MAXwear Safety Boot
The Thorogood Men’s American Heritage MAXwear Safety Boot is a reliable and durable choice for roofing work.
Its MAXWear Wedge slip-resistant tread pattern provides excellent traction on a roof. The leather upper offers support and stability helping to protect you against falls. This makes it a breeze to move confidently on a roof.
The Ultimate Shock Absorption footbed keeps feet comfortable and protected. Especially in challenging roofing conditions.
Additionally, these boots are electric shock-resistant. They can withstand up to 18,000 volts for up to a minute without allowing current flow.
This makes them a safe choice for work on roofs with electrical wires or other hazards.
Plus, these boots have an attractive leather look. They are available in two versatile color options.
Caterpillar “Raider Sport”
The Caterpillar “Raider Sport” is a rugged and stylish roofing shoe. It is perfect for the challenges that come with the job.
Its durable leather upper and slip-resistant rubber outsole provide five-star protection and traction. Traction that can protect you against serious injury.
The padded tongue and collar add extra comfort and support, making it easy to wear these shoes all day long.
And the steel toe cap helps to protect the feet from heavy objects. The boots are also available in a wide range of sizes to ensure a perfect fit.
Cougar Paw “Performer Boot”
The Cougar Paw “Performer Boot” is a high-quality roofing shoe specifically engineered for roofing work.
These made-in-America boots are tough and durable. They offer patented, replaceable traction pads that provide excellent grip on a roof. This makes them a great choice for anyone working on inclines.
Keen Targhee III Sandal
The Keen Targhee III Sandal is a unique and innovative choice for roofing work.
Sandals may not be what comes to mind when considering protective footwear. But, this pair offers excellent protection and durability.
The open strap design allows for unbeatable ventilation. You can keep your feet cool and comfortable during hot days on the roof.
The toe protection helps to prevent injury from falling objects. The slip-resistant outsole provides excellent traction on slippery surfaces.
These sandals are a great choice for roofers who want a comfortable and cool option. You won’t sacrifice the protection and durability needed for the job.
Rockport “Kingstin” Work Shoe
The Rockport “Kingstin” Work Shoe is a classic and reliable choice for roofing work.
These slip-on Oxford-style shoes offer a simple and practical design. A perfect choice for the demands of roofing work.
The nylon mesh insole provides comfortable cushioning for long workdays. The shock-absorbing heel pad and footbed help to reduce the impact on the feet.
The slip-resistant outsole keeps you safe and sturdy on inclines. And, the water-resistant design keeps feet dry in wet conditions.
Reebok Men’s Crossfit Nano 8.0 Flexweave Sneaker
The Reebok Men’s Crossfit Nano 8.0 Flexweave Sneaker is a cutting-edge, versatile choice for roofing work.
These lightweight sneakers have a unique design perfect for metal roofing work. The sneakers have a flared rubber sole and a tightly patterned weave tread. The combination provides excellent grip on steep and slippery surfaces.
The breathable design keeps feet cool and ventilated during hot weather. The lace-up design allows for a snug, secure, and personalized fit.
These shoes are also suitable for use in the gym. This makes them an excellent choice for roofers who want a multi-purpose option. A shoe that can handle the job demands and their workouts.
Nortiv 8 Men’s Waterproof Hiking Boots
Need a budget-friendly option for roofing work? The Nortiv 8 Men’s Waterproof Hiking Boots are a great choice.
These mid-ankle work boots offer waterproof leather and a tight lacing system for a secure fit.
An EVA memory foam footbed provides comfort and shock absorption. The rubber outsole has a tread pattern designed to resist slipping in all directions.
These shoes also have a protective toe cap. This can safeguard the toes against injury. A mid-level height provides adequate ankle support.
With eight different styles to choose from, there is something to suit every taste.
Ticcoon – Steel Toe & Kevlar
The Ticcoon is a steel-toe shoe. It offers a puncture-resistant Kevlar midsole, a unique option for roofing work.
The specially engineered sole protects the feet from sharp objects.
These shoes are also ultralight and breathable. The fly-knit uppers help to keep the feet cool and dry.
Skechers for Work 77055 Cankton Athletic work sneaker
Skechers may be better known for their skateboarding shoes. But the Skechers for Work 77055 Cankton Athletic work sneaker is an excellent choice for roofing workers.
These shoes have a tight tread pattern that provides excellent traction on the roof. They are slip-resistant, water-resistant, and have a steel toe for added protection.
The padded collar and tongue provide extra comfort and support.
The memory foam insole ensures feet stay comfortable morning to night.
Which Shoes Are Right for You?
The most important thing to consider when choosing roofing shoes is the specific needs and preferences of the wearer.
Different roofing shoes are designed to meet different needs. So choosing a pair that will be comfortable, safe, and suitable for your work environment is key.
Some things to consider when choosing roofing shoes include:
- The type of roof you will be working on (e.g., metal vs. shingle).
- The weather conditions you will be working in (e.g., wet vs. dry).
- The type of tasks you will be performing (e.g., climbing vs. standing).
- The level of support and cushioning you need.
- The durability of the shoes, and
- The level of personal style that matters.
Considering these factors, you can choose a pair of roofing shoes that tick all your boxes.
More Than Footwear
Roofing shoes are a specialized type of footwear designed for working on roofs.
They provide stability and protection. They enable you to work long hours in comfort. They can mitigate the risk of injury and falls.
In this article, we have highlighted some of the best roofing shoes available in 2023.
Ensure your next pair of roofing shoes meet your personal needs. But no matter which roofing shoes you choose, make sure they keep you safe and comfortable on the job.
How Will You Choose Your Next Shoe?
Here is your quick checklist for deciding which roofing shoes are best for you. Decide what is most important to you.
Then look through our list of shoes above. Find a dealer. And get to work!
- Safety
- Comfort
- Quality
- Warranty
- Reliability
- Size & Fit
- Style & Design
- Price
