Ever had wet feet at work? It’s uncomfortable, distracting, and can even lead to safety risks like frostbite, trench foot, and foot fatigue. That’s why choosing the right level of moisture protection in your work boot matters.
When shopping for work boots, you’ve probably come across the terms water-resistant and waterproof – but do you really know the difference? And more importantly, which type of work boot feature do you need?
Though often used interchangeably, they offer different levels of protection depending on the work environment, climate, and exposure to moisture – and choosing the right one can mean the difference between staying comfortable… or not. Let’s break it down.
Water-resistant boots: Protection from light moisture
Water-resistant work boots are designed to repel light moisture but aren’t built to withstand heavy or prolonged exposure to water.
Water-resistant shoes are typically made from materials that naturally resist moisture or have been treated with a durable water-repellent (DWR) coating to prevent water from seeping in, like full-grain leather, suede, nylon, or canvas.
An added bonus? These are going to be more breathable work boots, making them more comfortable in warmer weather.
Best for:
- Light rain + damp/muddy conditions
- Everyday wear, urban settings, and work environments
- Short outdoor excursions
Waterproof boots: Complete moisture protection
Waterproof work boots take things a step further by completely blocking water from getting inside.
They’re made from materials that prevent water penetration while still allowing moisture (like sweat) to escape. Materials like rubber, sealed or treated full-grain leather, GORE-TEX® or similar waterproof membranes, or Polyurethane (PU).
Best for:
- Heavy rain, snow, and wet environments
- Hiking, work sites, and extreme conditions
- Activities where feet are exposed to prolonged moisture
Which one should you choose?
A lot of people ask, “Why would I buy a boot that isn’t waterproof?” But just because a boot has added protection against water doesn’t mean you need that extra protection.
The right choice depends on how and where you wear your boots. Before deciding, consider these key factors:
How much water exposure do you expect? If you regularly deal with rain, snow, puddles, or wet conditions, a waterproof boot is the best choice. If you only encounter occasional damp conditions or light rain, a water-resistant boot may be the better option for comfort.
Do you need more breathability? Waterproof boots are designed to keep water out, but they also retain more heat, which can lead to sweaty feet in warm or humid conditions. Water-resistant boots allow for better airflow, making them more comfortable in dry, mild environments.
How often do you plan to wear them? If your boots are for daily wear, choosing the most comfortable option is just as important as protection. If you rarely deal with wet conditions, a water-resistant boot may be all you need - but if you frequently encounter wet environments, investing in waterproof protection will keep you comfortable longer.
At the end of the day, choosing between water-resistant and waterproof boots is about finding the right balance of comfort, protection, and durability. And investing in the right pair will keep you prepared – no matter the conditions.
For additional help, ask your site’s safety professional what they think – there might be certain requirements or recommendations already in place specific to safety footwear.
HexArmor® can help
Our safety boots were made to solve problems. We’ve created specialized safety footwear – the first ever by a safety manufacturer – with field-inspired design, out-of-the-box comfort, and our signature Wearability® in every pair – because we know the pros need the best.
Step into our cutting-edge technologies:
- Unmatched durability with MACSOLE™ rubber outsole
- Max shock absorption with i-PUREnrj™ technology
- Temperature control with climazone™
- Natural comfort with bionomx™
Learn more about our safety boot technology here.
Let us know if you have questions or would like to start a trial – our Solution Specialists are ready to work with you. Call 1.877.MY ARMOR or send us a message.
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