Best Boots for Walking and Standing on Concrete
- By Team Shoethority
After reviewing 30+ products, we found the Danner Bull Run Moc Toes to be the best boots for walking on concrete. They’re our top boots for standing on concrete, too.
My first warehouse job involved long days traipsing on a sealed concrete floor. As you’d expect, it was rock hard and slippery when wet. I spent many nights sticking plasters over my battered feet, dreading going back to work the following day.
I quickly learned what I needed to look for in boots for that job. Cushioning, arch support, a snug fit that prevents chafing and blisters. Other features, like a non-slip and uniform sole, are important too.
The best boot we found for walking on concrete is the Danner Bull Run Moc Toe. This work boot is made using high-quality leather and has a really strong, thick sole. It’s durable, easily lasting years if looked after properly.
The Bull Run boots are super comfy as well. After a short break-in period, the leather moulds perfectly to your feet and the insole delivers excellent support. I wish I had these when I was walking 7+ miles on concrete each day!
Other boots on this list that are a little more specialised. If you’re walking in wet areas, you might want to consider rubber boots. The Sperry Men’s Avenue boots ands the Women’s Salt Water boots from Sperrys are the best duck boots for walking and standing on concrete.
If you want a boot-style sneaker for concrete, you’ll want to consider the KEEN Utility range. These include our two favourites: the Braddock Soft Toe boot for men and the Flint Low Steel Toe for women.
For our full rundown of the best boots for walking on concrete, read on.
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Table of Contents
Best Boots for Walking and Standing on Concrete (Men)
100/100
Our Score
Danner Bull Run Moc Toe
Danner Bull Run Moc Toe
Why this product?
Made with a 100% leather upper, these boots are tough.
100/100
Our Score
Our favourite men’s boot for walking on concrete is the Danner Bull Run Moc Toe.
Made with a 100% leather upper, these boots are tough. If you care for the leather properly, they’re known to last decades. They’re breathable too, preventing your feet from overheating.
The Moc Toe design allows plenty of room for your toes to wiggle and flex. It prevents them from rubbing against each other, or the boot. This keeps you safe from blisters. It also allows air to flow around your toes preventing a build-up of sweat and moisture.
The Danner Wedge outsole is oil and slip-resistant. Even on sealed or polished concrete, the sole offers reliable traction. It’s thick enough to provide good cushioning, which helps protect your feet and legs from the impact of walking on concrete. It also means that you get plenty of life out of the soles of these boots. They won’t wear down too fast.
If the soles do come to the end of their life, you can get the boots resoled. Danner provide a recrafting service but we’ve found it’s cheaper to visit an independent cobbler.
The ortholite footbed has excellent shock absorption properties. It reduces the impact of each footfall and hugs your feet when standing. This creates a comfortable base that evenly distributes your weight. The steel shank helps with this too. It adds stability and spreads your weight out across the length of the boots.
If you require a steel toe boot for work, you can get these Danner Bull Runs with a steel toe option.
Cons
As with most high-end leather boots, the Bull Run Moc Toe by Danner require a lengthy break-in period. It can take weeks before they fit properly. Take your time breaking them in and don’t wear them for more than an hour or two initially.
They’re not waterproof which is a downside if you plan on using them a lot outdoors or in a location where they’re likely to get wet.
If you have wide feet, make sure you order the wide version. The standard version is much narrower than we are used to seeing in boots of this quality.
Pros
- Prevents overheating
- Keeps safe from blisters
- Oil and slip-resistant outsole
- Offers reliable traction
Cons
- Requires lengthy break-in period
- Not waterproof
Best Boots for Walking and Standing on Concrete (Women)
100/100
Our Score
Danner Women’s Bull Run
Danner Women’s Bull Run
Why this product?
The upper is 100% leather. The leather is so well made it can last decades if properly looked after.
100/100
Our Score
The best women’s boots for walking on concrete are the Danner Bull Run Moc Toe.
The Danner Wedge outsole is oil and slip-resistant. It provides reliable traction on a range of surfaces. Even on sealed or polished concrete floors. It’s thick, providing a lot of cushioning to protect your joints from the impact of walking on concrete.
The sole is durable as well. It’s thickness and durability mean that it lasts many miles of pounding the pavement. When the time comes, the sole can be replaced by a cobbler or by Danner themselves.
An Ortholite footbed ensures maximum comfort when both walking and standing still. It absorbs impacts well, protecting your muscles, bones and tendons.
A steel shank between the footbed and outsole provides a lot of stability to these boots. It gives extra support to each step and allows you to feel confident in your stride.
The moc toe design means there’s plenty of room for your toes to move without coming into contact with the boot. It also allows them to flex and move without being cramped together. This prevents blisters forming and allows air to flow around them.
The upper is 100% leather. It’s tough, looks great and breathes well. The leather is so well made it can last decades if properly looked after. If it does get worn out or damaged, Danner’s recrafting service can help bring it back to life.
Coming in both a steel toe cap and non-safety toe model, there’s a version of this boot for wherever you need it.
Cons
These boots run tighter than many other boots in the same price bracket. They’re not the best choice if you know you have wide feet.
There are small inconsistencies between the left and right shoe in some pairs. This is to be expected because the boots are hand-stitched but it can be quite noticeable. If you are concerned about this, we recommend ordering via Prime Wardrobe so you have full control.
Pros
- Oil and slip-resistant outsole
- Durable sole
- Provides reliable traction
- Provides a lot of cushioning
Cons
- Tighter fit
- Small inconsistencies between the left and right shoe in some pairs
Best Slip-On Boots for Standing and Walking on Concrete (Men)
98/100
Our Score
Dr. Martens Chelsea Boots
Dr. Martens Chelsea Boots
Why this product?
The most comfortable shoes for walking on concrete. They’re rugged, comfortable, well-cushioned and have a steel toe.
98/100
Our Score
The best slip-on boots for men walking on concrete are the Chelsea Boots from Dr. Martens.
They’re built for construction sites and factories with a lot of heavy machinery. They’re rugged, comfortable, well-cushioned and have a steel toe.
Made from 100% leather, the upper is hardwearing. It’s naturally water-resistant and can be made waterproof with a quick ‘at home’ waterproof spray.
The toe box is roomy considering the steel cap. There’s just enough room for your toes to move and not rub against the hard safety toe. This means you can avoid blisters, even during the rough break-in period Dr. Martens are known for.
The toecap itself is strong. It exceeds all necessary safety standards. These boots are ideal if you need them for construction or work in a factory requiring shoes with a safety toe.
These boots include Dr. Marten’s iconic AirWair sole. Small air pockets provide superb cushioning and help protect you against walking on hard concrete. They’re also slip-resistant and aren’t worn away but fats, oils, acids or petrol. The thickness of the tread ensures they won’t wear away quickly through abrasion with rough surfaces. It’s reinforced around the toe and heel for increased grip and longevity.
They also include Dr. Marten’s proprietary SoftWair footbed. This memory foam insole has enhanced padding at the heel and soft breathable cushioning along the length of your foot. It includes anatomically correct arch support. And it’s treated with an antimicrobial coating to prevent foot odour.
All of this adds up to make the Dr. Martens Chelsea Boots some of the most comfortable shoes for walking on concrete that we’ve ever tested.
Cons
As with all Dr. Martens, these boots have a long break-in period. Expect sore feet for the first few weeks of wear.
They also don’t offer a huge amount of ankle support. Again, to be expected as they’re not lace-ups but if you need the support, these are not the boots for you.
Pros
- Rugged
- Comfortable
- Well-cushioned
- Water-resistant
- Prevents blisters
Cons
- Long break-in period
- They don’t offer huge ankle support
Best Slip-On Boots for Standing and Walking on Concrete (Women)
97/100
Our Score
Wolverine I-90 EPX Romeo
Wolverine I-90 EPX Romeo
Why this product?
The outsole is made from high abrasion TPU. It’s resistant to oil, chemicals and even splitting.
97/100
Our Score
Our favourite women’s slip-on boot for walking on concrete is the Wolverine EPX Romeo.
These boots hug your feet and offer incredible comfort. They have a Fatigue Fighting EPX footbed. It’s cushioned to protect you from heavy footfalls on a hard surface. It distributes your weight well, no matter whether you’re standing still or walking for hours. And it’s flexible, allowing your foot to move naturally, which prevents injury.
The PU midsole adds another layer of impact protection. It absorbs shocks and houses a nylon shank. This delivers increased stability without compromising flexibility.
The outsole is made from high abrasion TPU. This material is up to three times more durable than a standard boot sole. It’s resistant to oil, chemicals and even splitting. You’d expect that to mean a compromise in traction but not with these boots.
The outsole offers a lot of grip. It’s non-slip and covered in a deep tread pattern to disperse liquids. It’s high durability, combined with excellent traction make this our favourite sole for walking on tough concrete floors all day.
Made with 100% leather, the upper is as durable as the sole. It will protect your feet from bumps and scrapes. There’s also a steel toe to keep you safe when at work.
A waterproof membrane stops water penetrating the boots from the outside. It’s also breathable. When combined with the soft, moisture-wicking liner, it’ll prevent the build-up of moisture.
Cons
Slip-on boots don’t offer the same amount of ankle support as their lace-up equivalents. These boots are no exception. If you need a lot of ankle support, keep an eye out for boots with high laces.
Because of the loose fit around the ankle, these boots can rub and chafe. To avoid this, wear long socks. Especially while breaking the boots in.
Pros
- Protects from heavy footfalls
- Distributes weight
- Flexible
- Prevents injury
- Waterproof
Cons
- Boots don’t offer good amount of ankle support
- Boots can rub and chafe
Best Steel Toe Boots for Walking and Standing on Concrete (Men)
98/100
Our Score
Timberland Pro Pit Boss
Timberland Pro Pit Boss
Why this product?
There’s comfort Suspension technology in the sole of these Timberland boots. It reduces foot fatigue.
98/100
Our Score
When it comes to steel toe boots for walking on concrete, the Timberland Pro Pit Boss boots are our favourite. They’re rugged and comfortable. A great choice for light to moderate work and ideal for walking on hard surfaces.
The steel toe is incredibly roomy when compared to most work boots. It offers plenty of space to wiggle your toes and lets air flow around them. This keeps your feet healthy by reducing blisters and allowing moisture to evaporate.
Abrasion-resistant outsoles mean you won’t wear through the soles in a hurry. They’re great for long days of walking along rough concrete floors. The thick tread pattern means the boots are non-slip and oil resistant.
The sole is attached to the boot using Goodyear welt construction. If it does wear through, you can easily get it replaced by your local cobbler.
There’s comfort Suspension technology in the sole of these Timberland boots. It reduces foot fatigue and offers a lot of arch support. It cushions every step too, reducing your risk of impact-related injury.
A contoured shock diffusion plate under your heel spreads the shock of each footfall evenly across your foot. It dissipates energy and stops localised injuries like bruising or stress fractures.
There’s also a padded tongue and ankle collar, which provide excellent stability. They hug the top of your foot and ankle nicely. Creating a snug fit and allowing you to walk freely all day.
Finally, the interior of these boots is treated with an antimicrobial coating. It kills off the bacteria responsible for foot odour.
Cons
Right in the heel of these boots is a thick seam. The stitching can take some serious breaking in. During this time it rubs against your heel and can be quite painful. Ensure you break these boots in properly before trying to wear them all day.
Pros
- Reduces foot fatigue
- Offers a lot of arch support
- Non-slip and oil resistant
- Abrasion-resistant outsoles
Cons
- Thick seam
Best Steel Toe Boots for Walking and Standing on Concrete (Women)
99/100
Our Score
Dr. Martens Arbor Steel Toe
Dr. Martens Arbor Steel Toe
Why this product?
The steel toe offers high-end protection against crushing or cutting injuries.
99/100
Our Score
The best women’s steel toe boots for walking on concrete are the Dr. Martens Arbor boots. These durable Chelsea work boots are super comfortable and hardwearing. A great option for warehouses, factories or workshops.
The steel toe offers high-end protection against crushing or cutting injuries. An upper made of soft industrial-grade leather means these boots have a robust feel to them. They’ll protect your feet from knocks and scrapes.
The outsole is made from Dr. Marten’s classic AirWair technology. It’s non-slip and resistant to oils, fats, acids and petrol. It contains a myriad of air pockets that are both comfortable and supportive. They deliver excellent shock absorption making them great if you’re walking for hours each day.
Should you wear through the sole, it can easily be replaced by Dr. Martens or by your local cobbler.
The breathable, moisture-wicking lining will stop your feet overheating and keep them dry all day.
Another classic Dr. Marten’s innovation is the SoftWair insole. This memory foam layer has extra cushioning around the heel and toes of your foot. It’s comfortable and supportive, hugging your feet and protecting them from the hard ground at the same time. It also has a raised grid pattern to improve airflow.
While these boots are not lace-up, they do offer a tighter ankle fit than most slip-ons. The ankle collar is tapered. It gently grips your ankle and provides a snug feeling around the top of your foot.
Cons
These boots run a bit large. However, thanks to the safety toe, the toe box can be a bit snug. We advise trying the boots on in-store or via Prime Wardrobe before committing to your purchase.
Pros
- Breathable
- Steel toe offers high-end protection
- Non-slip
- Prevents overheating
Cons
- Fit: a bit large
Best Ankle Boots for Walking on Concrete (Men)
95/100
Our Score
Dr. Martens Church Leather Monkey
Dr. Martens Church Leather Monkey
Why this product?
The upper is constructed from 100% leather. It secures around feet well and moulds to individual shape over time.
95/100
Our Score
Our favourite men’s ankle boots for walking on concrete are the Dr. Martens Church Monkey Boots. As you’d expect from Dr. Martens, they’re comfortable, soft on your feet and durable.
The upper is constructed from 100% leather. It secures around your feet well and moulds to your individual shape over time. This means that the shoes become snugger each time to wear them.
The AirWair sole, a classic Dr. Martens innovation, offers excellent cushioning and comfort. The air pockets absorb the impact of walking on hard floors, protecting your joints from injury. They also cradle your feet when you’re standing. Distributing your weight and preventing sore spots.
The sole is slip-resistant. It’s rugged enough to cope with sealed or unsealed concrete floors. And it’s resistant to oils, fats, acids and even petrol.
The boots have a great look to them. Inspired by Dr. Martens of generations gone by, they’re sleek and stylish. The five eyelet design means they’re lower cut than the other boots we’ve discussed. They’re just as suited to a nice restaurant as trekking along hard floors.
Cons
The ankle collar is initially quite sharp, it can take a long while to break in. During this time, it can cause some nasty rubbing around your ankles. Make sure you have good, thick socks on to prevent this problem occurring.
The tongue also moves around quite a lot. If you don’t lace the shoes up just right, the tongue works its way down one side or the other. This can cause bunching and get quite uncomfortable.
Pros
- Durable
- Protects joints
- Distributes weight
- Slip-resistant sole
Cons
- Quite sharp ankle collar
- The tongue moves around quite a lot
Best Ankle Boots for Walking on Concrete (Women)
96/100
Our Score
Dr. Martens Women’s Church Leather Monkey
Dr. Martens Women’s Church Leather Monkey
Why this product?
The patented sole is slip-resistant. These are shoes a great option for anyone working around hazardous liquids.
96/100
Our Score
The best women’s ankle boots for walking on concrete are the Church Leather Monkey Boots from Dr. Martens. They’re durable and comfortable, offering a lot of shock absorption and support.
The patented AirWair sole is slip-resistant, ensuring you are safe even on slippery concrete. It’s also resistant to oils, fats, acids and petrol. These are shoes a great option for anyone working around hazardous liquids.
The sole is full of air pockets. They distribute your weight evenly across the shoe and provide excellent cushioning. This support is not only good for walking. It also ensures a snug, comfortable base for when you’re standing still on hard floors.
The upper is made from 100% leather. It’s durable, breathable and water-resistant. There’s no internal lining so these shoes are not completely waterproof. However, their breathability means your feet won’t overheat and moisture can quickly evaporate.
The shoes are lightweight too. They won’t tire your feet out in the same way as steel toe shoes.
With 5 eyelets, these ankle boots can be laced right to the top. This ensures a snug fit and prevents your feet sliding around inside them.
Cons
Until they’re worn in, these boots can be very tough on your feet. Especially around the ankle area where the sharp leather rubs a lot.
The tongue on these boots has a tendency to slide down inside the shoe. It can be quite irritating when this happens. The tongue bunches up and get’s uncomfortable, forcing you to stop and untie your shoes to fix the issue.
Pros
- Durable
- Slip-resistant
- Resistant to oils, fats, acids and petrol
- Lightweight
Cons
- Can be very tough
- The tongue has a tendency to slide down inside
Best Premium Boots for Standing and Walking on Concrete (Men)
100/100
Our Score
Red Wing Heritage Blacksmith
Red Wing Heritage Blacksmith
Why this product?
The upper is 100% leather. And it’s some of the most robust leather we’ve ever seen on shoes.
100/100
Our Score
Some of our favourite work boots of all time, the Red Wing Heritage Blacksmiths are the best men’s premium boots for walking on concrete. They’re expensive but you get a whole lot of boot for your money.
The outsole is a Vibram 430 mini lug sole. This provides great traction on different types of concrete. It’s slip-resistant and capable of dispersing a modest amount of fluid. It’s also incredibly durable. You can expect to get a lot of life out of these soles. And, if they do eventually fail, they’re easy to replace.
The midsole is cork and the insole is made of leather. Neither of these offer great shock absorption to start with. In fact it can take many months to get these boots to their best. Once broken in, the insole and midsole will mould perfectly to your foot. They’ll cradle your foot, preventing it from moving around in the boots.
There’s a steel shank that provides extra stability and arch support. It’s lightweight and prevents your feet moving around too much in tricky conditions.
The upper is 100% leather. And it’s some of the most robust leather we’ve ever seen on shoes. If looked after, you can realistically expect the leather to last decades. It’s not completely waterproof but is very water-resistant.
These boots come with a bump toe design. This gives a lot of extra wiggle room for your toes. It means they won’t rub against each other, or the shoe, reducing your chances of blisters.
Cons
The sizing on these boots is very inconsistent. To ensure you are getting the right boots, start off by trying a size down. Then work your way up or down in half sizes until you get a good fit. We suggest trying them on in-store or via Prime Wardrobe.
Once you have the correct size, don’t expect it to be comfy straight away. These boots can take months to break in. But once they are ready, you’ll get years of wear out of them.
Finally, the shoelaces aren’t great. They tend to loosen quite quickly and wear down over time. We advise having a spare set ready or just replacing them straight away.
Pros
- Provides great traction
- Slip-resistant
- Incredibly durable
- Water-resistant.
Cons
- Inconsistent sizing
- Long breaking-in period
- Shoelaces aren’t great
Best Premium Boots for Standing and Walking on Concrete (Women)
99/100
Our Score
Red Wing 6 Inch Rover Round Toe
Red Wing 6 Inch Rover Round Toe
Why this product?
They grip around your ankle and along the top of your foot. Your feet are kept securely in place.
99/100
Our Score
When it comes to the best premium women’s boots for walking on concrete, the Red Wing Rover Round Toe is our top choice. Designed to fit a woman’s foot, these boots are rugged enough to handle long walks on concrete and offer exceptional levels of comfort.
They are made using a 100% full-grain leather upper. It’s some of the highest quality leather available which means these shoes have a long life span. It will also protect your feet and ankles from knocks or scrapes.
Once laced up all the way, these boots offer a lot of support. They grip around your ankle and along the top of your foot. Your feet are kept securely in place, preventing them from sliding around inside the shoes.
The lining is a leather, textile mix. It’s soft to reduce the risk of blisters and increase the comfort level for your feet.
A leather lined Texon insole moulds to the shape of your feet over time. Initially, it can feel quite hard but with each use, it gets more comfortable. Once fully broken in, these insoles perfectly match the contours of your feet. This helps spread your weight evenly and prevents any unwanted movement within the shoes.
The thick PU outsole is well cushioned and offers top-notch traction. The tread pattern is good for walking in wet, slippery environments. It’s durable enough to take a pounding on concrete. If it should wear out, the sole is easy to replace at your local cobblers.
The bump toe design means there’s more room around your toes. This allows them to spread and flex naturally, without rubbing against each other or against the boots.
What we don’t like about the Red Wing Rover 6 Inch
The sizing of Red Wing boots is quite inconsistent. Most people will size down by at least half a size. It’s worth trying these on in store or via Prime Wardrobe to ensure you get the right fit.
The insole for these boots is not removable. While it will mould to the shape of your foot over time, it can be very hard on your feet until it does so. If you plan on adding your own insole, you’ll need to get these boots at least half a size larger.
Pros
- Protects from knocks or scrapes
- Supportive
- Reduces the risk of blisters
- Offers top-notch traction
Cons
- Inconsistent sizing
- Not removable insole
Best Duck Boots for Standing on Concrete (Men)
95/100
Our Score
Sperry Avenue Duck Boot
Sperry Avenue Duck Boot
Why this product?
This is fully waterproof. It’s seam-sealed to the outsole and the leather shaft.
95/100
Our Score
If you spend a lot of time coming into contact with liquids, you’ll need a shoe that can keep you dry. The best men’s duck boots for walking on concrete are the Avenue Duck Boots from Sperry. They’re comfortable, durable and really easy to clean.
The outsole is formed with a double tread pattern. There’s the razor cut zig-zags and the moulded wave tread. Combined, these disperse water well and provide reliable traction, even on wet concrete floors.
The footbed is made from memory foam. It’s comfortable out of the box and cushions your feet well. It also offers a lot of arch support and stops your feet sliding around in the boots.
The waterproof upper is made of a rubber material. Similar to wellington boots. This is fully waterproof. It’s seam-sealed to the outsole and the leather shaft. It’s also easy to clean with just a quick wipe.
The shaft itself is treated and fully waterproof. It’s got a six eye lace system and padded collar. When laced up these deliver a lot of ankle support.
The boots come with a comfortable, thermal lining. It’s excellent at retaining body heat and is ideal for use in colder conditions.
They’re also really lightweight compared to many of the boots in this article. It means you won’t suffer from tired feet or legs, even after wearing these all day.
Cons
There is no insulation around the rubber upper. This allows a lot of heat to escape from the top of your foot. To counter this, especially if you are walking through cold conditions, you’ll need some nice thick socks.
Due to their waterproof nature, these boots don’t breathe. If it’s not cold out, you’ll find your feet quickly overheating.
Pros
- Easy to clean
- Provides reliable traction
- Fully waterproof
- Retains body heat
Cons
- No insulation around the rubber upper
- Not breathable
Best Duck Boots for Standing on Concrete (Women)
97/100
Our Score
Sperry Salt Water
Sperry Salt Water
Why this product?
If you spend a lot of time walking in wet environments, duck boots are for you. They’re 100% waterproof.
97/100
Our Score
Having wet feet sucks. If you spend a lot of time walking in wet environments, duck boots are for you. The best women’s duck boots for walking on concrete are the Sperry Salt Water boots. They’re 100% waterproof and seriously durable.
They have a fully rubber upper, much like a wellington boot. This is completely waterproof and is heat-sealed around the sole and shaft to ensure no water can get in.
The sole is slip-resistant. It’s covered in an intricate wave tread pattern that provides great grip in both wet and dry conditions. There’s also a small heel on these boots. It offers greater stability while maintaining a feminine look.
The shaft is leather. It’s waterproof and offers a lot of ankle support. It’s got a zipper on the side so once you have the laces where you want them, you can just slip the boots on and off in an instant.
The micro fleece lining keeps your feet warm in cold conditions. It also works with the memory foam footbed to hold your foot securely in place.
These boots are also customisable. You can pick between three different colour variations and even include a matte finish.
Cons
The tread pattern on these Sperrys isn’t very thick. Over time it wears away. This means it gives up a lot of traction and won’t handle wet conditions very well.
The insulation is excellent for cold conditions but can get too much during hotter times of year. Try to wear these in the summer and you’ll quickly find your feet overheating.
Pros
- 100% waterproof
- Durable
- Slip-resistant
- Keeps feet warm
- Customisable
Cons
- Tread pattern isn’t very thick
- Too much insulation during hotter times
Best Rain Boot for Standing and Walking on Concrete (Men)
94/100
Our Score
Crocs All Cast Rain Boot
Crocs All Cast Rain Boot
Why this product?
Formed from a single piece of moulded rubber, these boots have no seams. And no seams means no leaks.
94/100
Our Score
The best men’s rain boots we’ve tested are the All Cast Rain Boots from Crocs.
Rain boots are usually bulky and uncomfortable. But we were pleasantly surprised when we tested these Crocs. They’re lightweight, well-cushioned and extremely comfortable – even after hours of wear.
Formed from a single piece of moulded rubber, these boots have no seams. And no seams means no leaks. They’re perfect for walking in really wet conditions. The deep primary tread pattern and small multidirectional lugs help too. They ensure the sole offers good traction on wet or dry surfaces.
As you’d expect from Crocs, these boots are comfortable and cushion you as you walk. But they also offer a lot of arch support. The footbed adapts to the contours of your feet and creates a very stable base.
There’s a lot of wiggle room for your toes too. This allows them to flex and spread without rubbing against each other, or the outside of the boot.
Cons
Trying to slide your foot into these rain boots is not an easy task. They are much tighter than your standard wellies. It can take a few good pulls before the boot is securely in place. However, once your feet are in the boots, they are very secure.
The soles on the rain boots are not as durable as most of the other boots we’ve reviewed. While they’re extremely comfortable for walking on concrete, they wear out much quicker than the competition.
Pros
- Lightweight
- Well-cushioned
- Offers good traction
- Offers a lot of arch support
Cons
- Much tighter than standard wellies
- Not durable soles
Best Rain Boot for Standing and Walking on Concrete (Women)
96/100
Our Score
Hunter Rain Boot
Hunter Rain Boot
Why this product?
Unlike most rain boots, they’re lined. This soft nylon lining wicks moisture away from the skin.
96/100
Our Score
The best women’s rain boots for walking on concrete are the Hunter Rain Boots. They’re waterproof, comfortable and look great.
Being fully waterproof, they’re a great choice if you need to walk through wet environments. Unlike most rain boots, they’re lined. This soft nylon lining is breathable and wicks moisture away from the skin. It prevents blisters and ensures your feet are kept dry inside the boots. It’s also treated with an antimicrobial coating to prevent the build-up of odours.
The rubber outsole offers good traction, even in the wet. It’s durable too, so won’t wear out in a hurry. It also has a slight wedge shape to it. This ensures there’s plenty of cushioning around the heel. It helps absorb the shock of your footfalls and protects you against impact-related injuries.
The Hunter boots are quick and easy to slip on. You can use the pull tab on the heel to help pull them on if necessary. Once on, they stay in place and hug your foot very well. They allow your foot to move through its natural range of motion – something that’s almost impossible with taller boots.
Cons
The pull tab on the heel of these boots is far less durable than the rest of the shoe. It will likely be the first area to fail. It’s not too much of an issue if you don’t need it but it can be a big problem if you use the pull tab a lot.
Pros
- Waterproof
- Breathable
- Offers good traction
- Durable
- Protects against impact-related injuries
Cons
- Pull tab less durable than the rest of the shoe
Best Sneaker Boot for Walking on Concrete (Men)
98/100
Our Score
KEEN Utility Braddock Low
KEEN Utility Braddock Low
Why this product?
They have the impressive KEEN grip outsole. This is slip and oil resistant.
98/100
Our Score
If you’re on the hunt for a men’s sneaker boot, look no further than the KEEN Utility Braddock Low. The design is similar, although more robust than a classic KEEN walking shoe.
They’re the best choice for walking on hard concrete floors.
They have the impressive KEEN grip outsole. This is slip and oil resistant. It’s thick and covered in a deep tread pattern. It provides consistent traction in the wet or dry and is durable enough to handle walking on rough concrete floors all day.
The outsole also extends up over the toes. While this doesn’t offer the same level of protection as a proper safety toe, it’s much better than no protection at all.
There’s a metatomical dual-density EVA footbed. This internal support mechanism is anatomically designed to provide exceptional arch support. It cradles the natural shape of your foot and prevents your feet from moving around within the shoe. Ensuring you remain comfortable all day.
Enhanced cushioning around the toe and heel areas provide extra support and protect you from the impact of walking on hard surfaces.
The upper is a mix of leather and mesh. It’s reinforced around the heel and toe area to extend the life of the shoes. It’s breathable, preventing your feet from overheating and allowing moisture to evaporate.
The heel of these shoes feature a support strap. Connected to the laces, this tightens as you tie them. It then hugs your heel into the back of the shoe, offering more stability in the process.
Cons
The laces feed through fabric loops instead of metal eyes. We’ve often seen that these are the first areas of the shoe to fail. While it doesn’t happen overnight, when they eventually do break, an otherwise good shoe can be rendered completely useless.
Pros
- Slip and oil resistant outsole
- Supportive
- Prevents overheating
- Comfortable
Cons
- The laces feed through fabric loops
Best Sneaker Boot for Walking on Concrete (Women)
98/100
Our Score
KEEN Utility Flint Low
KEEN Utility Flint Low
Why this product?
This shoe is tough and offers incredible foot support. It features a robust rubber sole. This is slip and oil resistant.
98/100
Our Score
For women, the best sneaker boot for walking on concrete is the KEEN Utility Flint Low. This shoe is tough and offers incredible foot support. It’s also comfortable thanks to being designed to fit a woman’s foot form.
It features a robust rubber sole. This is slip and oil resistant. It’s thick enough to provide grip even when walking across wet floors and is durable enough to handle walking on rough concrete. This outsole also comes up over the toes to provide an extra layer of cushioning.
There’s a steel toe cap too. Making this an ideal warehouse shoe where the extra protection is required.
The midsole is made using KEEN’s proprietary KEEN.Regen technology. This offers 50% more energy return than a standard EVA midsole. Meaning every step costs you less energy, so you can walk further in comfort. It also provides good cushioning, which protects your feet, ankles, knees and hips.
The upper is mesh with tough reinforced sections around the sides, front and heel of the shoe. It’s breathable and built with a wider than standard design. This ensures there’s plenty of space for your feet to flex. It also allows air to flow freely.
These shoes allow you to thread your laces through the heel strap to create more stability. Once tightened, this means the back of the shoe cradles your heel and prevents your foot from moving around inside the shoe. This added stability prevents your toes from bumping up against the steel toe cap.
Cons
The insole that comes with these shoes leaves a lot to be desired. It’s very hard and doesn’t compliment the soft midsole at all. We suggest replacing this with a more cushioned insole to prevent sore feet.
Pros
- Offers incredible foot support
- Provides an extra layer of cushioning
- Gives extra protection
- Breathable
Cons
- Hard insole
Buyer’s Guide: Best Boots for Walking on Concrete
Cushioning
There are no two ways about it, concrete is hard on your feet. You only have to walk on concrete for an hour or two to realise that it doesn’t absorb impacts at all. If your boots don’t have adequate cushioning, you’ll quickly experience pain and fatigue.
Walking on hard surfaces without protection can cause you to suffer deep pain in your feet. The impact of walking can also damage your joints and leave you with swollen legs. It doesn’t end there though. Hard floors can harm your lower back and some people even suffer impact-related headaches if they walk on concrete for too long.
Boots with good cushioning can prevent a range of injuries and make walking on concrete a much more pleasant experience. You’ll need to ensure there’s not too much cushioning though.
If your shoes are too cushioned, you’re putting yourself at even more risk of injury. It’s all too common for people with cushioned shoes to stomp their feet down too hard. In the moment they don’t feel these impacts and assume the cushioning is preventing them from getting hurt. However, the long term stress of walking like this can have severe detrimental effects on your knees and hips.
Arch Support
Walking along hard, flat concrete surfaces all day can wear your feet out fast. As the muscles and tendons in your feet tire, it’s hard for them to retain their original shape and structure. Over time this causes your arches to collapse – especially if you already have flatter feet.
To counter this, look for boots that offer a good level of arch support. They’ll prevent your arches from collapsing but also reduce your daily level of foot pain.
Arch supports also help keep your feet aligned within your shoes. This offers more stability, which in turn improves your overall balance.
A Durable Sole
Walking on concrete is not only tough on your feet and joints. It’s tough on your shoes too.
Concrete is a high-traction surface. It has a rough texture to it and offers a lot of grip. Great for helping you stay on your feet but not so good for anything rubbing against it.
The friction created from walking on concrete can quickly wear away the soles of your shoes.
Because of this, you want to ensure your boots of choice have a robust outsole. One that can handle the abuse of walking on concrete. The thicker and more durable the better.
But it’s a balancing act. If your sole is too thick, you will lose sensory feedback from the ground which can cause injuries over the long term. Likewise, if it is too durable, it’s probably not providing much grip so could cause you to slip and fall.
You can also resole most boots. This involves taking the boots to a cobbler or sending them back to the manufacturer who will fit a new sole for a small(ish) fee. However, not all boots can be resoled. It depends on how they are built in the first place.
A Snug Fit
As previously discussed, concrete is a high traction surface. Every time you take a step, your foot will lift but your boot will still be gripping the floor. It takes marginally more force to lift a boot off a high traction surface like concrete than a low traction surface like ice.
If the boots do not fit well, your feet will move around a lot with each step. Laces will loosen and you’ll need to tighten them frequently.
To get boots that fit well, check for a padded tongue and ankle collar. Make sure you get the right size – some boots fit large or small and some have quite inconsistent sizing. And ensure that the laces are long enough to go through each eye or hoop.
Over time, some boots will mould to the shape of your feet. Meaning they become snugger with every use.
Slip Resistance
While some types of concrete offer very high levels of traction, others can be a little more slippery. Sealed concrete floors, like those found in warehouses, factories and workshops don’t absorb liquids that are spilt on them. That means water, oil or other liquids sit atop the floor – creating a slip hazard.
To help you stay on your feet, you want boots that deliver plenty of grip. Deep tread will deal with liquids while multidirectional lugs provide reliable traction across a range of surfaces.
Toe Space
As we know, walking on hard concrete floors all day plays havoc with your feet. If the toe area of your boots is too tight, every foot strike will force your toes against the tough material of your shoe.
This constant battering can cause pain, damage nails and in extreme cases, break toes.
You’ll need boots with enough room for your toes to wiggle and move around. Make sure they don’t touch the top or sides of your boot while walking.
Having extra toe space also allows your toes to flex and spread. This allows your feet to naturally absorb some of the impacts of each footstep. Your feet and toes evolved to be springy. By restricting their movement you are reducing their natural effectiveness and increasing your risk of injury.
How can walking on concrete affect my body?
Walking on concrete floors for extended periods can have severe detrimental effects on your body. It doesn’t move beneath you in the same way as mud or sand. So your body has to take the brunt of every step.
In the short term, this can lead to foot pain, swollen legs and even impact-related headaches. The long term effects of walking on concrete are more worrying.
Knee and hip problems can stop you in your tracks. Sometimes even requiring surgery to remove damaged bone and cartilage. Back pain is common too. The shockwaves caused by the impact of each footfall travel through your spine. This makes your muscles sore and can potentially damage your spinal discs.
There are ways to prevent these issues. Well fitted shoes with good support and cushioning can reduce the impact of each footfall. In turn, this protects your bones, muscles and joints.
How can I make walking on concrete more comfortable?
Walking on concrete is at best uncomfortable and at worst, downright painful. To make walking on concrete more comfortable you’ll need good shoes. But that’s not the whole story.
High quality, supportive insoles can make a huge difference to your comfort levels. They hold your feet securely in place, preventing them from moving around in your shoes. They also offer extra cushioning, which helps soften the impact of walking on such a hard surface.
Top-quality insoles also offer arch support. This reduces foot fatigue and helps prevent injuries such as plantar fasciitis or collapsed arches.
For walking and standing, is concrete different to surfaces like mud or sand?
You only have to walk off the sidewalk, onto a muddy trail and onto the beach to realise there’s a big difference between the surfaces.
Concrete is the hardest material you are likely to walk on in day to day life. The impact of walking on concrete is well understood. The hard surface adds increased stress onto your joints, muscles and even bones. This can lead to injury.
Sand and mud are both softer. They naturally cushion each footfall which reduces impact-related injuries.
However, softer terrain is not always easier to walk on. Very soft sand can take a lot of effort. Energy from each step is lost as the sand slides out from under your feet.
Soft mud is the same, although really soft mud is less common than soft sand. But mud can be very slippery when wet. It poses a bigger risk of falling than sand or concrete.
You’re more likely to face obstacles when walking on mud or sand. Be it tree roots on a forest trail or rocks on the beach, there are more hazards to contend with.
So walking on concrete requires less effort, generally provides more grip and there are fewer hazards to worry about. Sand and mud are better for your body but need more energy to cover the same distance.
What does walking on concrete do to your feet?
Walking on concrete without the correct footwear can cause a lot of problems. Plantar fasciitis is caused by too much stress to the ligaments in your feet. It can leave you feeling extreme pain and stiffness. The only cure is to rest.
Collapsed arches, weakened bones, bruising and even stress fractures are all common foot injuries for people who walk on concrete a lot.
Why do my feet hurt after walking on concrete?
Concrete is unforgiving on your feet. It’s hard and offers zero cushioning. Walking on concrete can cause pain for several reasons but there are a few common causes.
High or collapsed arches can get very sore on concrete. Supportive shoes and good insoles can help with this.
Carrying too much weight can make the impact of each footstep more pronounced. Whether it’s a heavy backpack, obesity or pregnancy doesn’t matter, you’ll feel the effects of walking on concrete more.
Ill-fitting shoes. Wearing poorly fitted shoes will make walking on concrete more painful. Wearing the wrong type of shoes will also have the same effect. Ensure your shoes offer good support and cushioning to reduce the pain of walking on concrete. Insoles can also help with this.
Is polished concrete hard on your feet?
Yes, polished concrete is hard on your feet. It’s a tough surface that offers no flexibility or bounce back.
What’s more, polished concrete can be slippery. This adds an extra risk of slipping and falling onto the hard surface.
Conclusion
Our overall favourite boots for walking on concrete are the Danner Bull Run Moc Toe. These are the best option for both men and women.
They’re some of the most comfortable boots we’ve tested, offering great support and moulding to the contours of your feet.
They’re also durable – an important factor when it comes to work boots. The leather, if properly looked after, can last decades. And the soles can be refitted if and when needed.
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