16 Best Shoes for Warehouse Work in 2022 (& 4 Things to Look For)
- By Tim Ashdown
We reviewed 47 pairs of shoes and found Reebok Sublite Cushions (men) and KEEN Spartas (women) to be the best shoes for warehouse workers.
Working in a warehouse can mean many hours of standing. Whether it’s picking orders, packing for delivery, or putting stock away, you don’t get time to sit and rest.
During my first stint working in a warehouse, I was unprepared for the shock this has on your feet. I didn’t have the right shoes and as a result, was left limping after every ten-hour shift. It didn’t take me long to work out that I needed proper warehouse shoes.
The best shoes for warehouse work we tested are the Reebok Work Sublite Cushions for men and the KEEN Spartas for women. Both these shoes are lightweight and well-cushioned. Important factors for keeping you comfortable during a long shift.
They’re stable, breathable and have a host of safety features to keep you protected. They each have a composite safety toe and will protect you from electrical hazards. They’re both fitted with anti-slip rubber outsoles and have supportive insoles. All round, they’re the best picks for warehouse shoes.
While those are our favourites, your warehouse job might require a more specialist shoe. For example, some warehouses ask that all workers wear Skechers. In this instance, our top picks are the Flex Bendon model for men and the Ghenter Bronaugh for women.
Some people will need a lot of support from their warehouse shoes. If that’s you, we recommend the Vionic Watson Landon for men and the Vionic Kiara for women. These are both designed by podiatrists and are recommended by the American Podiatric Medical Association.
Keep reading to find the best warehouse shoes for you.
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Table of Contents
Best Shoes for Warehouse Work (Men)
99/100
Our Score
Sublite Cushion Reeboks
Sublite Cushion Reeboks
Why this product?
Light and comfortable with a composite toe cap for ultimate protection from falling objects. Moisture-wicking and breathable, so your feet will stay cool during the whole day. Durable and slip-resistant.
99/100
Our Score
For warehouse work, the Sublite Cushion Reeboks were the best men’s shoes we tested. These shoes come with a composite toe cap that conforms to warehouse safety standards. It’ll protect you from falling objects, even ones on the heavy side. It’s also light enough to make walking long distances comfortable. They have a similar style to sneakers so don’t stand out if you need to wear them outside the warehouse.
The upper is made of a mesh and microfibre mix. It’s moisture-wicking and breathes well – creating a cool dry environment for your feet, even when you’re walking all day. It also contains no exposed metal so will help protect you from electrical hazards. The composite cap is also metal-free, and the shoes don’t conduct electricity.
The rubber outsole is slip-resistant. It features full flex grooves which provide extra grip and allow the shoes to move naturally with your feet. This helps prevent strains and injury. The outsole is also resistant to oil, chemicals and heat. Plus it’s super durable. The midsole is cushioned and supportive, especially around the midfoot. The footbed massages your feet as you walk and provides further cushioning. It feels like an athletic shoe and uses Reebok sports tech. The comfort and support is a major reason we picked this shoe.
The wide toe box is great. It has plenty of room inside so you can wiggle your toes and let air circulate around them. It’s plenty wide enough that their toes will not rub on the hard toe cap. The sole is uniform with a rocker sole, making walking and standing easy on the feet.
Cons
The removable insoles are not the thickest we’ve seen in warehouse shoes. For most people, this isn’t an issue. But if you have collapsed arches or require extra cushioning, you’ll need to add more suitable insoles.
The sizing of these Reeboks is a little off. We found that ordering half a size down best.
Pros
- Protective composite toe cap
- Comfortable for long-distance walking
- Moisture-wicking
Cons
- Removable insoles could be thicker
Best Shoes for Warehouse Work (Women)
100/100
Our Score
KEEN Utility Women's Sparta
KEEN Utility Women's Sparta
Why this product?
Ultra-light alloy toe cap for protection. Specifically designed for women, allowing total breathability and comfort without blisters. Slip-resistant, and chemical and oil-resistant. Zero odour.
100/100
Our Score
When it came to the best women’s shoes for working in a warehouse, nothing compared to the KEEN Sparta. This warehouse shoe has an alloy toe cap. It’s 35% lighter than the steel equivalent but offers the same level of protection. Like the rest of the shoe, the toe cap is built to accommodate a woman’s foot and is wider than the industry standard. This allows for more comfort and breathability around the toes, reducing the risk of rubbing and blisters. The shoe’s lightness means it only wears slightly more than a non-safety shoe. Warehouse workers say it’s easy to walk in, even for long hours.
As with all top-rated safety shoes, these KEENs come with a slip resistant outsole. It’s non-marking and grooved to provide traction on wet surfaces. The outsole is also oil and chemical resistant. The midsole is made using the proprietary KEEN.ReGEN technology. This lightweight material provides 50% more energy return than normal EVA foam. The Sparta is a comfortable shoe for covering a lot of miles in the warehouse.
The upper is made from a soft mesh. It’s rugged enough to keep you safe but will not mark or scratch anything it rubs against. It’s reinforced with rubber overlays around the heel and toe cap for durability. The shoes use Cleansport NXT odour prevention. This is one of our favourite features for work shoes. It breaks down the bacteria responsible for bad smells using natural probiotics woven into the fabric.
Cons
The standard insole in these shoes isn’t as good as some of the competition. If you have sensitive feet we advise adding a more cushioned insole. If you do this you’ll need to order the shoes half a size up (or with extra width). The normal insoles cannot be removed from these shoes. Try them in-store or using Prime Wardrobe to be safe.
Pros
- Light alloy toe cap
- Reduced risk of blisters and rubbing
- Cleansport NXT odour prevention
Cons
- Not for people with too sensitive feet
Best Shoes for Warehouse Pickers (Men)
99/100
Our Score
Adidas Cloudfoam Ultimate
Adidas Cloudfoam Ultimate
Why this product?
Provides foot support and extra cushioning with wave groove pattern outsoles for excellent grip on wet or dry flat surfaces. Ultimate stability and comfort. Extremely breathable and comfortable for walking.
99/100
Our Score
Warehouse pickers spend most of their time standing and walking short distances. They need shoes with extra cushioning and foot support. These Adidas Cloudfoam give you both. The outsole is covered in a wave groove pattern. This offers great grip on flat surfaces, wet or dry.
The midsole is made from thick Cloadfoam with a lot of cushioning around the heel. The sole has an extra-wide base for stability. Arch support support is decent, and gets better over time as the foam moulds to your foot. The cushioning around the heel sinks under your body weight, leaving your foot to sit flat along the sole. The comfort and stability offered are second to none.
The knit upper offers great breathability, comfort and flexibility. It’s easy to forget you’ve even got shoes on. They feel like good socks with a sole. The tongue is sewn into place. It won’t move around when putting the shoes on in a hurry and means the shoes always fit as they should. The Adidas Cloudfoam Ultimates are perfect for walking miles around the warehouse. They are also work as high-quality sneakers when you’re out and about.
Cons
No toe protection. The lacing system can get a little loose if you don’t use it properly.
Pros
- Great foot support and added cushioning
- Offers incredible stability and comfort
- Breathable
Cons
- Lacks toe protection
Best Shoes for Warehouse Pickers (Women)
97/100
Our Score
ASICS Gel-Lyte Komachi Shoes
ASICS Gel-Lyte Komachi Shoes
Why this product?
Dense foam outsoles for durability and excellent grip on flat and dry surfaces. Shock-absorbing midsole created with supportive ASICS’ Gel Cushion Technology. Wicks away moisture and allows the feet to breathe.
97/100
Our Score
The comfy ASICS Gel-Lyte Komachi are perfect for warehouse pickers, who stand and walk a lot. The outsole is made of dense foam. It’s durable and offers good levels of grip on flat, dry surfaces.
The midsole is soft and absorbs shocks well. It’s made using ASICS’ Gel Cushion Technology. This silicone-like material is durable as well as supportive. It’s compression-resistant, meaning it stays bouncy as you wear the shoe for dozens and hundreds of miles.
The midsole is built for arch support. Combined with the padded footbed, it prevents arch collapse and foot fatigue. The lace-up vamp runs at a low angle to the sole, “pushing” the foot into the footbed. This improves foot stability and keeps the shoe firmly in the foot. The rocker sole in the front section of the shoe gives you a smooth heel-to-toe transition.
These ASICS are made from a sophisticated mesh knit upper. It’s lightweight, breathable and conforms well to your foot. The interior mesh lining is made of synthetic material. It allows maximum airflow and wicks moisture away from your feet.
Cons
The outsole is not good when things get wet and slippery. If you work in a warehouse with slippery surfaces, be careful.
Pros
- Durable dense foam outsole
- Doesn’t lose its bounciness
- Perfect for arch support
Cons
- Not slip-proof
Best Non-Slip Shoe for Warehouse Work (Men)
99/100
Our Score
Merrell Moab 2 Shoes
Merrell Moab 2 Shoes
Why this product?
Vibram outsole for rugged mountain terrain and smooth warehouse floors. Completely water-resistant and slip-resistant. Zero foot fatigue. Extremely breathable and moisture-wicking.
99/100
Our Score
The Merrell Moab 2 is the new version of the famous Merrell Moab boots. Originally designed as a walking shoe, it has the comfort and durability you need to walk miles through a warehouse. The Vibram outsole is built to cope with rugged mountain terrain. It excels on smooth warehouse floors. It’s water-resistant. It delivers consistent traction and won’t slip, even on water or light oil. It’s the best slip-proof outsole you could have in a warehouse.
The outsole is bouncy enough to prevent foot fatigue. It keeps the foot in a neutral position, giving you an easy walking gait and standing posture. The footbed is excellent, using blended EVA to give multi-zone arch and heel support. Perfect for standing and walking all day. There is a protective rubber toe cap. This is not a replacement for your hard toe cap boots. However, it does offer a level of protection that most, non-safety shoes do not.
The Moab 2 comes in 2 versions. Both are constructed with a suede and mesh upper. This keeps your feet cool by allowing air to circulate. It also holds your feet securely in place. The waterproof version uses a M select Dry membrane. This lining stops water from entering the shoes but still allows moisture to escape. It keeps your feet dry from both sweat and spills. The ventilated version has a lighter mesh lining overlayed with suede for durability. It’s extremely breathable. Perfect for outdoor work, even in the sunny summer months.
Cons
These Moab 2 shoes are quite narrow. They are not well suited to people with wide feet. The wide version was better for most of our testers.
Pros
- For rugged mountain terrain
- Water-resistant
- Heel and multi-zone arch support
Cons
- Not ideal for people with wide feet
Best Non-Slip Shoe for Warehouse Work (Women)
99/100
Our Score
KEEN Terradora 2
KEEN Terradora 2
Why this product?
Exclusively designed for hiking through rough terrain. Provides traction, and gives excellent grip. Waterproof and incredibly comfortable. Excellent choice to prevent flat feet. Rubber toe guard helps prevent broken toes.
99/100
Our Score
The Terradora 2 has an outsole designed for hiking through rough terrain. It has a multi-zone outsole that uses 4mm multi-directional lugs to provide traction through the whole shoe.
This means that even if part of the shoe loses grip, the rest of the shoe will keep you upright. The rubber is designed to cope with slick, exposed mountain trails. It does a great job on warehouse floors; even wet ones. There are anatomical flex grooves along the outsole. These allow your feet to flex and move in a natural way.
Thanks to the removable EVA footbed, these waterproof shoes are comfortable to wear hour after hour, mile after mile. They have incredible arch support. This prevents discomfort and flat feet, even if you walk dozens of miles per week inside a warehouse. The Terradora 2s keep your feet dry using the KEEN.DRY membrane. This waterproof layer keeps your feet cool while preventing water from getting to them.
The rubber toe guard adds another layer of protection. While it doesn’t compare to a proper safety toe, it can help reduce the risk of broken toes from stubbing injuries.
Cons
These shoes run small and are a little narrow. Order one size up if possible. If you can’t find a pair that fits, go for the similar Merrel Moab 2 (women’s).
Pros
- Suitable for hiking through rough terrain and warehouse
- Anatomical flex grooves help feet to flex
- Prevents flat feet
Cons
- Not suitable for people with wide or bigger feet
Best Tennis Shoe for Warehouse Work (Men)
98/100
Our Score
New Balance MC 803 Tennis Shoes
New Balance MC 803 Tennis Shoes
Why this product?
One-piece, seamless upper design with extra toe protection. Ultimate breathability. Feel energized and fatigue-free. Cushioned insole and extra-wide base provides stability. Perfect for athletes and warehouse workers.
98/100
Our Score
Originally a tennis shoe, the MC803 is now a factory and warehouse favorite. It uses a one-piece, seamless upper design. There’s extra protection around the toes.
Mesh surrounds the padded ankle and tongue for extra ventilation. The Fresh Foam midsole, usually found in NB running shoe models, is cushioned without being mushy. It’s also supportive around the midsole. This keeps your feet energized and fatigue-free throughout long days at the warehouse.
The cushioned insole hugs your feet. It provides great stability, stopping your feet moving inside the shoes. The heel is especially well-supported and has plenty of cushioning to protect you. The extra-wide base keeps the feet stable.
This allows you to change direction quickly and retain stability. While it’s designed with athletes in mind, this addition is great when you’re darting around the warehouse in a hurry. There’s an extra non-slip sole pad in the same area which reduces wear.
Cons
The toe box on these shoes is very tight when compared to other shoes on this list. If you need the extra room, order the wide version. Alternatively, you could go up a size.
Pros
- Extra toe protection
- Fatigue-free and breathable
- Non-slip sole pad reduces wear
Cons
- The toe box is very tight
Best Tennis Shoe for Warehouse Work (Women)
98/100
Our Score
New Balance 806 V1
New Balance 806 V1
Why this product?
Leather/synthetic blend will keep your feet cool. Excellent grip, even on wet slippery floors. Great sensory feedback, and it’s slip-proof. Moderate arch support. Hyposkin upper is simple to clean with a wipe. Moisture-wicking Lightning Dry Liner keeps the feet dry.
98/100
Our Score
The best tennis shoe for women is a different version of the male model we picked above. It’s made from a different leather/synthetic blend than the men’s model.
The 50% leather 50% synthetic construction means they’re more breathable and keep your feet much cooler. The 806v1s provide excellent grip, even on wet slippery floors and have an extra-wide base for stability. The outsole is slip-resistant. Despite being well-cushioned, it gives you great sensory feedback from whatever surface you’re walking on.
The insoles provide moderate arch support which is ideal for most people. As well as this, the fresh foam midsole provides a nicely cushioned base for your feet. It absorbs the shocks of walking and evenly distributes your weight whether you’re walking a lot or standing in one place for hours.
The upper is coated in Hyposkin. This material is super easy to clean with just a quick wipe. Your shoes will remain looking as good as new for as long as you want them to. They also have multiple perforations for breathability. This means the seamless, one-piece upper keeps your feet well-ventilated. There’s a moisture-wicking Lightning Dry Liner that keeps your feet dry if they do get wet.
In fact, due to its incredible comfort levels and cushioning, we believe that this shoes is also the best choice for nurses.
Cons
We wish this model has a bigger toe box. That’s the only thing missing.
Pros
- Leather/synthetic blend keeps feet cool
- Slip-resistant outsole
- Moisture-wicking Lightning Dry Liner
Cons
- The toe box could be bigger
Best Skechers for Warehouse Work (Men)
97/100
Our Score
Skechers Flex
Skechers Flex
Why this product?
Light with breathable mesh construction. Splash-resistant and metal-free model for electrical hazard safety. Slip-resistant outsole also works on oil-covered surfaces. The memory foam topped insole makes you feel like you’re walking on clouds.
97/100
Our Score
Some companies ask their employees specifically to wear Skechers. The Flex Bendon is our favorite warehouse work shoe from the brand. Its mesh construction is breathable and incredibly lightweight. These are some of the lightest shoes we tested.
The model is also splash resistant. You can spill a glass of water and still rely on them to keep your feet dry. This is cool because the shoe is also pretty breathable. To see breathability and waterproofing at this low a price point is cool.
The Bendons contain no metal and are electrical hazard safe. Ideal if your warehouse requires this feature. The outsole is slip resistant. It’s tested on wet surfaces as well as on oil. There’s also a slight curve to the sole which supports the arch, even through long hours of standing and walking. This makes standing and walking long distances easier. The rocker element in the front section of the sole allows you to roll smoothly from one step to the next.
There’s a memory foam topped insole. Together with the thick, rubbery outsole, this makes the shoe easy on the feet. The tongue and ankle collar are well padded which adds to the overall comfort.
Cons
We found these shoes run a little large. To get the best fit, order half a size down. If possible, try them in-store or via Prime Wardrobe before ordering.
Pros
- Incredibly lightweight and breathable
- Waterproof
- Slip-resistant outsole
Cons
- Large shoes
Best Skechers for Warehouse Work (Women)
98/100
Our Score
Skechers Ghenter Bronaugh
Skechers Ghenter Bronaugh
Why this product?
Slip-resistant outsole with flex grooves for ultimate comfort. Shock absorbing and lightweight. Excellent knee, ankle, and hip-support. Best choice for people who work around electricity but don’t require toe protection.
98/100
Our Score
The Ghenter Bronaugh Work Shoes are the best Skechers for women. They have a slip resistant outsole. It has flex grooves that let the sole bend and flex freely, giving you a natural walking gait.
The rocker element in front lets the food go from heel strike to toe-off as you walk. The EVA midsole is lightweight and shock absorbing. It also has solid arch support. These features protect your knees, ankles and hips from the impact of walking and standing all day. There’s also a memory foam topped insole for added comfort. Given the shoe’s price point, we’d say the cushioning and support are best-in-class.
These shoes are electric hazard safe but do not have a reinforced toe cap. They’re a great choice if you are working around electricity but don’t need toe protection. They may not be suitable for warehouse workers who carry and lift heavy objects often. They’re more “athletic shoe” than “safety sneaker”, functionally. Walking and standing is what they’re best at.
These shoes also have a relaxed style to them. They’re comfortable and offer a very secure platform for your feet. The mesh upper is lightweight and breathable. It allows air to circulate around your feet and prevents them from overheating. It’s coated with a Scotch Guard treatment, which adds water and stain protection to the shoes.
Cons
These Skechers don’t offer as much support as the other shoes we tested. While they’re lightweight and very comfortable, if you suffer from collapsed arches you’ll want more supportive shoes. Alternatively, get a wide size or go half a size up and wear custom orthotic insoles.
Pros
- Slip-resistant
- Shock absorbing and lightweight EVA midsole
- Electric hazard safe
Cons
- Not for people with collapsed arches
Best Warehouse Work Boot (Men)
97/100
Our Score
KEEN Utility San Jose Boots
KEEN Utility San Jose Boots
Why this product?
In both alloy-toe and soft-toe models. Light alloy-toe model is highly protective and comfortable. Both slip-resistant models provide safety against electrical hazards. Balance support with superb sensory feedback. Waterproof membrane to keep the feet dry, yet odourless.
97/100
Our Score
The KEEN Utility San Jose work boots are the best men’s soft toe boots we tried. There’s a soft-toe model and an alloy-toe model. The soft toe protection guards against minor impacts but doesn’t offer anywhere near the performance of a reinforced toe cap. The alloy toe is light but highly protective. Thanks to the boot’s moccasin toe , the alloy cap model has lots of wiggle room. Both models are electrical hazard-proof.
They have a slip resistant rubber sole. Effective on smooth surfaces, this sole delivers traction on water and even oil. It’s also non-marking. It has flex grooves that keep the sole flexible, letting it bend in multiple areas. Together with the rocker sole, this gives good weight distribution when standing – and an easy, relaxed gait when walking. Perfect for warehouse work.
The air infused midsole produces reliable cushioning step after step. It also delivers excellent sensory feedback, which helps with your balance. These boots have struck a perfect balance between feel and protection. They’re the most comfortable warehouse boot we’ve ever tested.
There’s a flexible nylon shank between the mid and outsole. This ensures the boots remain stable and gives exceptional control of your feet. It also allows the boots to flex up and down but not side to side. This mimics the way your feet work without shoes while still offering great support. The high eyelets and snug ankle collar mean your ankle is stable when you lace up.
KEEN’s own KEEN.DRY waterproof membrane lines the boots. This keeps your feet dry but still allows them to breathe. While waterproofing isn’t always necessary for warehouse work, it’s good to have. Getting caught out and having to do an entire shift with wet shoes can lead to painful blisters. Not to mention smelly shoes.
Cons
The laces on these work boots aren’t up to the same standard as the rest of the shoe.
Pros
- Light alloy-toe model with extra protection
- Slip-resistant rubber sole delivers traction on oil
- Flexible nylon shank keeps boots stable
Cons
- Moderate quality laces
Best Warehouse Work Boot (Women)
96/100
Our Score
Dr. Martens 1460
Dr. Martens 1460
Why this product?
Iconic soft-toe version with updated new tech. Ultra protective and comfortable. PVC and GRIP-TRAX central rubber pod combo outsole is slip-resistant and oil, chemical, and fat-resistant. Moisture-wicking and entirely breathable for whole day wear.
96/100
Our Score
Our favourite warehouse boots for women are the 1460 boots from Dr. Martens. These only come in a soft-toe version. If you want an alloy or steel toe boot, look in the category below.
These classic boots are the original Dr Martens, updated with new tech. The AirWair sole is full of air pockets. These help cushion your feet and protect you from the impact of walking all day. They also create a comfortable, stable platform. The outsole is slip resistant. It uses PVC fused with GRIP-TRAX central rubber pods. It has a thick tread pattern, offering high levels of traction, even on slippery surfaces. They’re also oil, fat and chemical resistant.
With a Wanama leather upper, the 1460 boots are water-resistant. They’ll keep your feet dry during short rain showers or from water being spilt on them in the warehouse. At the same time, they use SoftWair sockliners for breathability and moisture wicking. This tech includes strategically placed memory foam pods that support and cushion the foot when you walk and stand.
They’re also extremely durable. Warehouse workers we spoke to reported resoling these multiple times before the leather wore out. They also said the leather upper gets more and more comfortable with time.
Cons
Dr. Martens must be broken in before you can wear them for long periods. It can take up to two weeks before the leather moulds to your foot. If you try to wear them for an entire shift before they’re broken in, you may end up with blisters and sore feet. Wear them at least 2-3 days at home first.
Pros
- AirWair sole provides comfort and protection
- High levels of traction
- Waterproof
Cons
- Requires about two weeks to be broken in
Best Warehouse Shoes for Flat Feet (Men)
98/100
Our Score
Vionic Landons
Vionic Landons
Why this product?
Podiatrist-designed and recommended by the American Podiatric Medical Association for people with supination, flat feet, and other conditions. Foot support for hours. Gives you a casual look without looking orthopedic. Slip-proof outsole, lightweight, and breathable.
98/100
Our Score
The Vionic Landons are designed by podiatrists and come recommended by the American Podiatric Medical Association. If you suffer from flat feet, overpronation, supination, etc, these are the shoes for you. They’ll make standing and walking for long hours easy by supporting the foot.
The Watson Landons are created using Vionic’s own Vio-Motion Technology. This offers three-zone comfort and support. Each foot section – midfoot, forefoot, toe – has its own “zone”. The footbed is concaved at the heel, convexed in the middle and gently cushioned around your toes. It means your foot is held securely in place and given maximum arch support. The cushioning around the ball of your foot and your toes helps reduce the impact of walking all day.
These trainers have a casual look to them. The orthotic supports are well disguised. By looking at them, you wouldn’t know these are supportive shoes. The non-slip outsole keeps stops you from slipping over while walking around the warehouse. Its shallow tread pattern is ideal for use on hard, flat floors. It handles small puddles and water very well.
There’s a mesh upper. It’s breathable and lightweight. Once laced up, the mesh works together with the Vio-Motion footbed to keep your feet as stable as possible. The eyelets are cleverly designed to “pull” the foot into the supportive arch for maximum support.
Cons
Since these are corrective shoes, they make your foot muscles work harder than usual. Vionic recommend that you start off wearing them for just an hour or two at a time. You need to slowly build up to wearing them all day. We agree; the EVA footbed definitely takes getting used to.
Pros
- Perfect solution for flat feet or supination
- Three-zone comfort and incredible support
- Casual look
Cons
- Takes time to get adjusted to
Best Warehouse Shoes for Flat Feet (Women)
99/100
Our Score
Vionic Kiara Trainer
Vionic Kiara Trainer
Why this product?
Recommended by the American Podiatric Medical Association and designed by podiatrists for cushioning and support. Increased arch support and ergonomic support through the entire footbed. Fully replaceable insole and slip-resistant outsole. Prevents overheating.
99/100
Our Score
These shoes are designed by podiatrists. They come recommended by the American Podiatric Medical Association.They’re built using Vio-Motion technology. This gives enhanced levels of support and comfort. It does this by giving each foot section – heel, arch, forefoot – different levels of support and cushioning.
The arch gets the most support with a more rigid “zone”. The forefoot is morecushioned and designed to spread your metatarsals out. The result is ergonomic support and cushioning through the whole footbed.
The design of the eyelet section “pushes” the foot into the shoe sole. This prevents your feet from moving around inside the shoe and makes sure they stay supported. The outsole is slip-resistant and conforms to all the necessary regulations for use in a warehouse. The insole is fully replaceable. You don’t need to get rid of the shoes when the cushioning starts to wear away.
With a mesh upper, these shoes breathe well. They prevent your feet from overheating, even if your warehouse heats up in the summer.
Cons
As with all orthotic shoes for flat feet, these take some breaking in. Vionic recommend only wearing these for a couple of hours at a time to start with. Slowly build this time up until you can wear them all day.
Pros
- Vio-Motion technology provides enhanced comfort and support levels
- Keeps the feet from moving around
- Insole is replaceable
Cons
- Takes time to break in
Best Safety Toe Warehouse Boot (Men)
97/100
Our Score
Carharrt Composite Toe Boot
Carharrt Composite Toe Boot
Why this product?
Comfortable with dual-density orthotic insole for protection against impact. Rubber sole for shock absorption, and abrasion-proof outsole. Ideal for workers who need to climb ladders due to the high-level of grip provided. Toe cap protects against injuries, while remaining light.
97/100
Our Score
The best hard toe boot for men is the composite toe boot from Carhartt. These are the most comfortable hard toe boots we found for warehouse workers. The dual-density orthotic insole hugs your foot and protects you from the constant impact of walking. They also have a thick, rubber sole – perfect for shock absorption. The outsole is abrasion-proof. You’ll be able to walk hundreds of miles before noticing any loss in the tread.
The CMF6366 has aggressive lugs which ensure you have plenty of grip. There are even ladder lock channels in the tread pattern. If you climb ladders in your warehouse, these boots are for you. These channels significantly reduce the chances of slipping on a rung. The toe cap itself is made of a composite material. It’s lighter than a steel toe cap and meets the ASTM F2413-18 safety standard. Thanks to its non-metallic design, it also protects you against electrical hazards.
The padded collar delivers great ankle support. It goes a long way in ensuring your comfort, even after hours of walking. When on-foot, these boots have a great lightweight feel to them. This is definitely a case of “don’t judge a book by its cover”.
Cons
The shoe can run hot indoors, even with the FastDry moisture-wicking tech. If you don’t want sticky, sweaty feet, consider wearing with thick cotton socks.
Pros
- Dual-density orthotic insole for foot protection
- Shock absorption provided
- Excellent grip capabilities
Cons
- Tends to overheat when indoors
Best Safety Toe Warehouse Boot (Women)
96/100
Our Score
Timberland Pro Reaxion Boot
Timberland Pro Reaxion Boot
Why this product?
Best hard toe boots for ladies created with full grain waterpoof leather. Light membrane will keep feet dry and cool. Support with anti-fatigue polyurethane footbed for impact absorption. CarbonShield hard toe is light, yet protective. Thermoplatic urethane sole provides added layer of cushioning.
96/100
Our Score
Timberland’s Pro Reaxion boots are the best hard toe boots for women that we’ve tried. They’re made with full grain waterproof leather that feels nice and plush.
According to warehouse workers really holds up. There’s a waterproof membrane that makes this shoe excellent for outdoor warehouse work. Unlike with other waterproof boots, the membrane is light and doesn’t make the boot run hot. The padded ankle collar and high eyelets mean the shoe stabilizes the ankle joint when laced up.
The insole provides excellent support. There’s an anti-fatigue polyurethane footbed that absorbs impacts and gives efficient energy return with each step. Since it’s polyurethane, it’s supportive and durable. If you walk around the warehouse a lot, these feel like heavier sports shoes.
Springy, with good sensory feedback. The outsole provides excellent grip on smooth dry floors. It also exceeds expectation on wet surfaces. With anatomically position grooves in the tread, these boots allow your feet to move in a natural way. This helps prevent injury if you’re on your feet all day.
The hard toe is made from CarbonShield composite material. It’s light and doesn’t add much weight to the boot. It’s protected by a rubbery overlay that’s double-stitched onto the vamp. The sole is thermoplastic urethane, and surprisingly bouncy. It adds another layer of cushioning to the boot.
Cons
The boot can’t be resoled.
Pros
- The waterproof leather feels plush
- Keeps feet cool during the entire day
- Anti-fatigue polyurethane foot bed absorbs impacts
Cons
- Can’t be resoled
Buying Guide: Features to Look For
Slip Resistance
Working in a warehouse means you’re walking a lot; often on slick surfaces that offer very little grip. You need to ensure that your footwear provides plenty of traction on these smooth floors. It’s also common for water to pool around warehouse doors or shutters. This can make an already slippery surface much more treacherous.
Your best option is a slip resistant shoe that protects you from slipping and getting injured. Look for deep treads, slip-proof rubber and oil and water-resistance.
Stability
When you’re on your feet all day, trips and falls can become a serious risk. There are also many hazards that can spring up in a warehouse. Boxes not put away properly, strapping left on the floor, etc, spilled liquids – all kinds of stuff that can quickly bring a person down.
To help us stay on our feet, we want shoes that are stable. A wide base, a tight-fitting heel and strong arch support are all desirable. With boots, a high ankle shaft and high eyelets are good. A stability shank running between the midsole and outsole can also help.
Injury Protection
Working in a warehouse can be dangerous. From heavy objects and all shelves to moving machines and potential spills, all kinds of things can cause foot injury. If you’re looking for a safety shoe, look for a quality toe cap. It will protect you from dropped items and from accidentally kicking hard or sharp objects.
For a non-safety work shoe or boot, look for a tough rubber sole and upper. A dense sole will protect the bottom of your feet from sharp items that can be left on the floor. Rubber in particular is known to be puncture and tear-resistant. A tough, thick upper with some padding will protect you from light objects falling on your foot. A strong synthetic or leather upper is good.
If your warehouse has specific safety standards, like astm f2413, make sure to adhere to those as well.
Electric Hazard Protection
Some warehouses have lots of electrical wiring and machinery. If this is your case, get a shoe or boot that’s electrical hazard-proof. Quality warehouse footwear will use leather, synthetics or rubber. These are all natural insulators. They won’t conduct electricity and will help keep you safe.
The risk with work shoes and electricity comes from metal parts. Toe caps are the most prominent example. If you’re working with, or feel at risk from electricity, ensure you choose work shoes with a composite toe cap. Try to avoid steel ones.
Foot Support
When you’re on your feet all day, having shoes with good support is important. Without it, you’ll notice your feet getting tired and sore quickly.
Shoes with good support will distribute your weight more effectively. This reduces the risk of foot injuries like collapsed arches and plantar fasciitis.
High levels of support also help with your stability and balance. Shoes that offer the right amount of foot support will help keep you on your feet and significantly reduce your chance of getting hurt at work.
Breathability
When you’re in your shoes all day, you need them to be breathable. If not, all the heat and moisture your feet produce will be trapped.
Bad smells are the most obvious symptom of non-breathable shoes but not the most serious. Bacteria and fungus thrive in warm, damp environments. To prevent athletes foot or other fungal infections you need to ensure your feet remain dry and cool. The best way to do this is with breathable footwear.
Flat Sole
A sloped or uneven sole forces your foot into an unnatural position. This can put unnecessary strain on the rest of your body. Your calf muscles, knees, hips and even spine can suffer if you wear shoes with a raised heel all day.
Flat soles that offer a neutral foot position distribute your weight more effectively. They provide a more stable platform and allow your feet to move in a more natural manner. You’ll also find that flat soles allow you to increase the strength in your feet much quicker.
Replaceable Insoles
When you’re on your feet all day, it doesn’t matter how durable your insoles are. They will wear out quicker than your shoes. Especially if they offer a lot of cushioning and support.
To ensure worn out insoles don’t mean ruined footwear, get work shoes with removable insoles. Shoes with replaceable insoles also allow you to add the best insoles for you.
Which Kind of Toe Cap Is Best for Warehouse Shoes?
You’ll find three main types of toe cap in work shoes. Each type will keep you safe. They all have to pass the same tests before they can be sold.
Steel
Steel toe caps often referred to as “steelies” are the original, cheapest and most common form of toe protection. They’re strong, durable and are usually the thinnest of the three toe cap choices. This mean’s their less conspicuous than either composite or alloy toe caps.
They do have a few downsides though. Steel toe caps can be dented by heavy objects. They’ll still protect your toes but may need replacing should you dent them badly. They’re also the heaviest of the lot and the coldest to wear during the winter.
Steel conducts electricity so these are not a good choice if you are working close to or with electrical hazards all day.
Alloy
As the name suggests, alloy toe caps are made of a blend of different metals. Aluminium, titanium, as well as other lightweight metals, make up the bulk of their construction.
Alloy toe caps tend to be lighter than steel, which makes them great if you’re walking around all day. They’re also thinner. This makes them more comfortable as there’s more room for your toes to move.
However, alloy toe caps are more expensive than steel. They offer the same level of protection against falling objects but aren’t as good at protecting you against cutting or grinding. A steel toe shoe is more suitable for warehouses with a lot of tools operating.
Alloys also tend to conduct electricity. As with steel, they’re not a great choice if you’re working with electrical systems.
Composite
Composite toe caps are the most modern form of toe protection. They’re made of composite materials such as kevlar, fibreglass and carbon fibre. This makes them much lighter than the competition. It also means they don’t conduct electricity or heat.
Composite offers the same levels of protection as steel and alloy but is more comfortable thanks to the reduced weight. If you’re walking around the warehouse all day, you might want to consider investing in work shoes with a composite toe cap.
Be aware that composite toe caps are usually bulkier than steel or alloy and are more expensive.
FAQ
1. How many miles do warehouse pickers walk?
Of course, it will depend on the size of the warehouse but pickers walk between nine and fifteen miles per shift.
Some warehouses are as large as one million square feet. That’s the same size as 21 American Football pitches! There’s a lot of walking involved. You’ll need to ensure you have good quality, supportive, comfortable shoes for working in a warehouse.
2. Is it OK to wear running shoes for warehouse work?
It’s not advised to wear running shoes while walking around a warehouse. Running shoes are designed for running, not walking. They often have heavily cushioned, elevated heels. These are great to protect your feet from the impact of running but can have a detrimental effect on your gait while walking.
Running shoes are usually less flexible around the ball of your foot. This is good for running as your foot doesn’t want to move too much. But for walking, you want to allow for a larger range of motion. Shoes that don’t flex while walking can cause knee pain and even cartilage damage in the long term.
3. Is more cushioning always good?
More cushioning in your shoes is not always good. Too much cushioning reduces sensory feedback from the ground. This can cause you to stomp your feet down with more force than usual. Wearing heavily cushioned shoes incorrectly could actually cause, rather than reduce, impact-related injuries.
Cushioned shoes also stop the natural biomechanics of your foot from operating as they should. In the long run, this can reduce your foot strength and make you susceptible to injury.
Conclusion
Our favourite all-round warehouse work shoes are the Reebok Sublite Cushions for men and the KEEN Spartas for women.
The Reebok model is basically an athletic shoe with a quality alloy cap. It’s ventilated, comfortable to walk in and supportive. It molds to your foot over time, getting more and more comfortable. It’s excellent value-for-money and it looks good, too.
The spartas are breathable, lightweight and extremely comfortable. Keen are famous for their ergonomic footwear, and this model is no exception. Excellent arch support, roomy toe section, and a pull tab on the heel. Comfortable, with excellent support and cushioning.
Both shoes are breathable, lightweight and perfect for walking mile after mile.
Check out these great deals on the Reebok Sublites and KEEN Spartas.
