Sometimes there are hidden benefits in certain types of footwear, and work boots showcase this!
The best work boots that make you taller are actually designed to provide a mix of safety and comfort, which is often created using thick heels and cushioned insoles that tend to give a substantial height boost, without being classed as elevator shoes.
Before purchasing, it is important to understand different styles of work boots and find those which suit your working needs. You need to be standing comfortably and with suitable protection for your working environment. The boots on this list all have high-quality construction, are stylish, and provide a nice height boost.
Top 5 Tallest Work Boots (Quick Overview)
Recommended Product | HEIGHT INCREASE | GOOD FOR | PRICE |
|---|---|---|---|
1: Skechers Logger  | 1.75 inch (4.44 cm) | Heavy duty/Harsh terrain | |
2: Timberland PRO  | 1.7 inch (4.31 cm) | Heavy duty/Harsh terrain | |
3: Carhartt  | 1.7 inch (4.31 cm) | Heavy duty/Harsh terrain | |
4: Georgia Boot  | 1.7 inch (4.31 cm) | Heavy duty/Harsh terrain | |
5:Rockrooster  | 1.6 inch (4.06 cm) | Heavy-duty/Industrial |
Full Reviews
1: Timberland PRO Soft Toe Industrial men's Shoe
If you are a hands-on worker then there is no doubt you have probably seen these Timberland PRO boots in action before. The iconic yellow design makes a statement of quality and has held its own for decades, and shows no signs of stopping anytime soon.
As can be expected from a work boot, they have a sturdy construction. The uppers are made from premium leather and there is a direct-attached welted system that ensures the uppers are going to stay firmly together with the sole throughout tough work.
These boots incorporate technologies to ensure your comfort. They feature comfort suspension technology which helps reduce foot fatigue, to keep your feet happy on the go.
They have 200 grams of Thermolite insulation which helps resist the cold, and have also been chemically treated to ensure waterproofing. The sole is sturdy rubber, providing great traction support on a number of surfaces.
Summary: A popular choice for working men, they are the go-to boot to get the job done.
The Good Stuff:
- Height Increase: 1.45 inch (3.7cm)
- A good choice for a first work boot
- Iconic design
- Comfort suspension technology
The Bad Stuff:
- Some reports of minor durability issues
- Soft toe not suitable for industrial workplaces.
2: Men's Moc Toe Construction Boots
These boots from MEDEAR are ideal for working in the construction industry, and other manual labor type jobs.
The uppers are constructed of water resistant, full grain tumbled leather which is more durable than other leathers. The inners have COOLMAX Technology, which consists of lined and breathable fabric which helps to absorb moisture, keeping your feet cool inside the boot.
They also come equipped with an anti-puncture KEVLAR midsole to protect your feet from potential security hazards at construction sites, manufacturing factories and so on.
They are secured with a Goodyear welt, which ensures good ventilation, and also a comfortable cork footbed which will mold to the shape of your feet, providing a custom fitting. The dual density PU outsole will prevent water damage and it is also slip resistant making these ideal for working in environments with potential spillages on the floor.
Due to the internal layering and cushioned insole you will get a decent height boost from these boots. They also feature two toe variants for you to choose from - one with a composite, protected toe cap, and the other with a soft toe design.
Summary: These boots are feature packed, heavy duty and good looking compared with other designs, and a good all round choice that will keep you protected and comfortable during your working day.
The Good Stuff:
- Height Increase: 1.4 inch (3.6cm)
- Ideal replacement for a boot during colder seasons
- Anti-puncture KEVLAR midsole
The Bad Stuff:
- Not suitable for those wanting a large height increase
3: Skechers USA Men's Logger Boot
These rugged and stylish logger boots from Skechers have the markings of quality footwear, being well constructed and stitched with fine details.
The uppers are constructed of 100% durable leather and they have the Skechers 'S' logo embossed on the side for added detailing. They have a padded tongue and a supportive lace-up front with metal eyelets and top hooks for added resistance, that will ensure your feet stay tightly secured.
The stitched, top sole trim and shock-absorbing midsole increases durability and ensures the boot will not come unstitched and start falling apart.
The layered 1.75" logger style heel ensures that these are boots that make you taller. They provide around the upper limit when it comes to height increase from a work boot. The lug patterned outsole is oil and slip-resistant and will provide high levels of traction support on different surfaces.
They are available in black or brown styling, so if one works well for you then you can grab both colors and alternate them, which will give the other one time to evaporate moisture and rest, increasing its lifespan.
Summary: If these boots make your eyes smile, then you can be confident in knowing that the construction will make your feet smile too.
The Good Stuff:
- Height Increase: 1.75 inch (4.45cm)
- Diverse boot which can be used for dress purposes
- Highly supportive
- Substantial height increase
The Bad Stuff:
- Can take time to get used to this style of boot
4: Timberland PRO Men's 6" Alloy-Toe Work and Hunt Boot
Timberland puts high value on customers who relish in the outdoors, and this boot is an example of this, with the sheer amount of features packed into its construction.
They have full-grain leather uppers which will conform to your foot shape, providing high levels of comfort. On the inside there is a textured nylon tongue for added support, and a mesh lining for added breathability and comfort. They also feature a soft cushioned insole which will feel great, absorbing pressure throughout the working day.
They come with a PU flex-welt cast-bond construction which means they are built to stay firmly together, and clearly constructed with durability in mind. They have an alloy toe, which is lightweight and highly protective, keeping you covered at the worksite or anywhere else your toes may be at risk. The gripmax rubber outsole showcases enhanced traction support for a steady grip on many different surfaces.
Summary: Feature packed and ready for hunting, the worksite, or anywhere else you might end up needing the added protection they offer, you won't regret making the switch to these high quality Timberland boots.
The Good Stuff:
- 1.35 inch (3.4cm)
- Feature packed
- Highly protective
- Comfortable
The Bad Stuff:
- Can take time to break in
5: ROCKROOSTER 8 inch Steel Toe Work Boots for Men
ROCKROOSTER has created a boot ready to protect you from working in different environments and on changing surfaces. They have leather uppers and a textured nylon tongue for added support and comfort. They also sport an easy access side zipper for easy of on-off.
The footbed is cushioned and contains COOLMAX antifatigue technology, which moves moisture away from the body to keep when the feet get hot, yet its fiber structure also provides warmth on colder days.
The steel toe protection will make sure that they stay away from They also have a static control & non-slip TPU outsole. This means that this boot will lead the body's excess charge to the ground, avoiding the build-up of electrostatic discharge.
Summary: Whether you are working on brick, metal, concrete, mud, and anything else you can think of, these boots have you covered and will ensure any potential hazards do not stop them from performing well under strenuous conditions.
A good all-around choice, for sure.
The Good Stuff:
- Height Increase: 1.6 inch (4.06 cm)
- Versatile footwear
- Coolmax technology for anti fatigue
- Static Dissipative
The Bad Stuff:
- Heavier than average
6: Carhartt CML8360 - Men's 8" Waterproof Logger Boot
Perfect for the dedicated rancher, these waterproof Carhartt boots for men have the construction to ensure your safety and stability throughout the working day. Also, if you are looking for height increasing working boots then these will suffice!
Firstly, the horse brown tanned leather uppers are made with reinforced Carstrong fabric making them extra resistant to tearing and ripping. Internally there is a waterproof membrane that is placed between the leather and the lining of the boot, providing a weatherproof and breathable environment. Also, there is a comfortable PU cushioned insole for your feet to enjoy.
They feature a molded TPU heel stabilizer which gives enhanced stability, and a Carhartt sturdy rubber woodworks outsole to ensure slip resistance and support whatever the weather.
This is further reinforced through the use of a Goodyear welt, which is the golden standard of secure constructions. The composite toe design protects against compression hazards and gives needed resistance to general knocks!
Summary: A very nice overall design, being feature packed and ready to tackle the outside, keeping you protected and with the added benefit of a nice height increase, what's not to like?
The Good Stuff:
- Height Increase: 1.7 inches (4.3cm)
- Feature packed
- Strong construction built for hard work
- 2" heel provides a substantial height increase
The Bad Stuff:
- Slightly heavier than average
7: Georgia Boot AMP LT Logger Waterproof Work Boot
These Georgia boots are perfect for ranch work, and once you understand how they have been constructed you will understand why so.
The uppers are made of SPR full-grain leather, which is up to 3x stronger than standard leather, protecting against the elements and chemicals, making them barnyard or pasture proof. Further, it uses a formula of oils combined with waxes that will not dissolve in water, making them highly waterproof. They also feature grip panels for easy pull on or off and a padded collar for additional comfort.
They uppers are a tall at 9" in height, which means you can tuck them into your pants and protect yourself from anything unwanted falling inside.
The welted construction secures the boots together and they contain a composite toe for your protection against scrapes and knocks. Further, there is an oil and slip-resistant Vibram outsole and a heel-stabilizing counter lock to keep you well balanced.
Summary: This is a boot that will add a large amount of height and benefits in doing so as it will keep you elevated and fully protected against potential hazards. If you are working on the ranch then look no further than here.
The Good Stuff:
- Height Increase: 1.75 inches (4.45cm)
- Perfect for ranch and pasture work
- Robust SPR full grain leather protection
- Feature rich & highly supportive
The Bad Stuff:
8: Caterpillar Men's Second Shift Steel Toe Work Boot
Whether you are working in construction and want a boot that sticks nicely to roofs, or a mechanic working with heavy objects, this Caterpillar boot is going to fit your purpose through its robust design and comfortable inner construction.
The uppers are a high quality, oiled full grain leather and nubuck combination which delivers satisfactory levels of durability. Inside the boot there is nylon mesh lining which is highly breathable and will provide additional comfort when standing on your feet all day. There is also a Climasphere insole which further enhances these aspects.
They are held together with a Goodyear welt construction, ensuring these boots endure long periods of usage without falling apart. Further, there is a steel shank winched in-between the insole and the outsole which improves stability and helps the boot keep its shape, and thus protect your feet.
The outsole is constructed of T3 Rubber, delivering slip resistance and optimal traction support on any surface you walk on. Finally, the toes are capped with steel which protects against potential impact and compression hazards prone in a heavy working environment.
Summary: This boot provides a decent all-around experience, whether you are working on brick, metal, concrete, mud and anything else you can think of. This is a good entry level option for those looking to dip their feet into something affordable, safe and comfortable.
The Good Stuff:
- 1.41 inch (3.6cm)
- Good all around performance
- Good value, versatile boot
- T3 rubber outsole
The Bad Stuff:
9: Dr. Martens, Men's Ironbridge Heavy Industry Boots
These Ironbridge boots from Dr. Martens are well designed to ensure your safety on the construction site and other high intensity working environments.
They are constructed with rich, water resistant tumbled leather uppers with additional insulation to help protect against electrical hazards. There is a padded collar and tongue which gives comfort through excess bending and other work related movements.
They feature a moisture wicking lining to stop your feet from overheating, which sits on top of a welted construction and foot bed, providing high stability and durability.
The toes are protected through the use of a steel toe cap, so you can be fully assured working with heavy objects. Underneath the boot there is a slip resistant sole which will withstand oils and other hazardous chemicals.
Summary: Overall these are a high quality industrial work boot that ticks all the main boxes when it comes to keeping you safe. If you like this style then be sure to check out the color variations to suit your taste.
The Good Stuff:
- 1.4 inch (3.6cm)
- Comfortable and cushioned
- Sturdy, robust materials and construction
- Electrical hazard protection
The Bad Stuff:
- Reports of some defective soles
10: Timberland PRO Men's Rip Saw Logger Work Boot
This logger boot from Timberland is everything you would expect it to be. It features synthetic uppers which are waterproofed and robust, protecting you from anything hazards thrown their way.
On the inside they feature a steel shank for added structural support. The feature shock absorbing anti-fatigue technology, which delivers enhanced flexibility, allowing energy return throughout the foot, which transfers through your legs and body to ensure you stay supple on the job. They also have a lightweight composite toe for impact and compression safety.
Under the footbed there is a puncture-resistant plate which will make sure that whatever you step on will not penetrate through the sole all the way to your foot. They feature a Vibram fire & ice outsole, which is highly resistant to both warmer or colder working conditions, and will provide a high level of traction support to ensure you stay on your feet without slipping.
Summary: The 2" heel which will provide a high boost in height. Aside from this, if you are looking for a boot that offers work site protection and high levels of comfort, then you can be secure in knowing that Timberland have you well and truly covered here.
The Good Stuff:
- Height Increase: 1.7 inches (4.3cm)
- Anti-Fatigue & highly supportive
- High levels of underfoot protection
The Bad Stuff:
- Heavier than average, although comfort makes up for this
11: Timberland PRO Men's 26011 Direct Attach 8" Soft-Toe
Another fine example of the best work boots that make you taller by the Timberland brand. This classic style is accompanied with a list of features making it the go-to boot for many of you workers out there.
They feature a seam sealed full grain leather construction which ensures waterproofing capabilities. They also have a padded collar for your comfort. Additionally, there is high ankle support and protection, being 8" high, which makes them easier to tuck in your pant legs to avoid unwanted debris ending up inside of them.
Inside there is a whooping 400g of thermolite insulation for added warmth, so these are a good bet if you are working in colder climates. It contains a padded, open-cell polyurethane footbed which is highly breathable, and a mesh lining with antimicrobial treatment, which will fight against foot odor, so when you take your shoes off at home you will not scare the cat away!
Lastly, they come fully equipped with Timberland's 24/7 comfort suspension technology, which supports your arches and lowers foot fatigue.
Summary: This boot has a hefty heel and will also give a good amount of height. Alongside its feature packed elements it showcases Timberland's classic looks and it is no wonder they are a popular choice for many workers out there.
The Good Stuff:
- Height Increase: 1.45 inch (3.7cm)
- Ideal replacement for a boot during colder seasons
- Packed with features
- 24/7 comfort suspension technology
The Bad Stuff:
- Can run slightly large
- Soft toe design is not suitable for industrial workplaces.
Work Boots Buyers Guide
The days where you could only find chunky, heavy working boots are over, and modern styles are lighter in weight while still housing the solid protection and durability of classic styles, and often closely resemble the outer appearance of a casual boot. Therefore, some types of work boots pair well with street wear and can be styled with jeans, a shirt and other clothing to give a rugged, manly look.
Depending on the line of work you are in, you will be looking for different qualities in a work boot. Simply, having the proper footwear will reduce the risk of you suffering an injury from compression damage, slips, falls and other dangers. For example, the required boots for working on hard, harsh surfaces such as concrete will need to incorporate different features from those who are working in the garden, deep woods or other maintenance-related areas.
Whatever your working conditions, a pair of work boots need to stand the test of time and resist against potential hazards. Therefore there are some traits to look out for in a good quality work boot.
What Styles of Work boots Make You Look Taller?
Regular work boots will add around 1-1.25" of height. However, on this page we have selected work boots which add the most amount of height, and fall within the 1.5-2" range - which is a considerable gain.
Well known brands such as Timberland make some of the best work boots that make you taller. The majority of their range have a good sized heel on them and can add around 1.4-5" of height. This is a nice boost over a regular shoe and you are bound to feet taller when rocking them out and about!
However, logger boots provide one of the largest boosts available amongst the work boot range, comfortably giving between 1.5"-2" of height boost. This is a noticeable amount and you will feel considerably taller and also be perceived taller by those around you. There are also some industrial boots which will give you a nice boost in height, just look for a larger outer heel and go from there.
Work Boot Sizing
Companies will size there range differently from others, therefore it is advised to read reviews and gain knowledge of the sizing of the boot you want to buy.
In general work boots should remain safe ensuring your foot is firmly kept in position, but not too tightly. Your heel should stay in place without rubbing or dragging up and down the back of the boot.
Your toe area should have some room (around an inch) and not press or feel tight as you walk forwards, and the rest of your foot should feel secure with a little breathing room, but not bulge on the sides - a firm but flexible fitting.
Construction
Cement Construction
One of the most used methods when making working shoes, a cement construction is made by attaching the sole of the shoes to the uppers using an adhesive. It is lightweight and will also provide good waterproofing properties. For lighter work, it's often the perfect solution. Due to the cementing process, however, the soles cannot be replaced, so its lifespan is lesser than a Goodyear welted construction, and boots with a cement construction will generally be cheaper.
Goodyear Welt
This form of construction sees the uppers, insole and the outsole connected through a strip of leather, and reinforced through stitching. The result is one of the sturdiest constructions available, highly waterproof, durable, and able to be resoled. This construction can handle the most hazardous of working environments and should be the go-to option for those working in them.
Insoles
The insole plays a major role in ensuring a work boot fits correctly and should be cushioned, providing adequate support. Generally, you will be wearing your shoes through the working day, so they need to fit to the shape of your feet to avoid unnecessary issues.
If you are prone to discomfort, or have a foot condition that makes it hard to wear your average shoe, then it is advisable to buy some aftermarket insoles that you are confident will shape to, cushion and protect your feet. If this is the case then you also need to buy boots with removable insoles, so make sure to check that out before purchasing them!
Outsoles
TPU
Quite a few work boot soles of made of TPU, which is a form of polyurethane (PU). This is lightweight in design, flexible and also great for slip resistance. It is also oil and chemical resistant and can withstand very cold and high temperatures, staying flexible and workable in these environments. This is the standard that you should aim for in a quality boot.
Rubber
Commonly used in work boots, rubber is a strong option for anyone working in challenging environments. It is puncture, oil, water and slip-resistant, and good to use on concrete. In other words - it will keep you on your feet.
Both TPU and rubber should serve the average workman perfectly, but some notable differences are that rubber is more resistant to extreme temperatures (up to 300c), and TUP is lighter and performs better under colder conditions (-20c). Also, the cost of TPU is higher.
Toes
Steel Toe
AVOID LOW QUALITY BRANDS! A high quality steel toe cap will provide protection from heavy and sharp objects and general damage to the toe area. If heavy objects are prone to dropping on your feet then you do not want to be buying cheap boots, as the lesser quality steel will leave your feet highly venerable, and if something really heavy drops on them it might leave you with a serious injury.
You should be prepared to spend around $100 or more and choose from a high quality brand to ensure your safety while handling heavy objects etc.
Aluminum Toe
As a reliable second option, aluminum toes are more lightweight than steel and yet still provide protection to a satisfactory standard. The toe cap is thinner and will allow your toes to move more freely. This does usually come at an extra cost, however.
Soft Toe
Finally, if your use is for more lightweight work then you may consider boots without a toe cap. Soft toe designs are generally constructed to give underfoot protection, electrical hazard safety, and slip-resistance. They may still come with some form of toe protection for lighter jobs, but will still be venerable and inappropriate for most industrial workplaces.
Additional Tips
Wear The Correct Socks
There are socks designed for work boots that will further reinforce your protection, making a notable difference to how you feel wearing them.
Break-in Period
Steel-cap boots constructed of sturdy leather can take a while to break in. To speed up this process you can apply creams, conditioners and other moisturizing products to the leather and leave the boots overnight. The result will be a more malleable material which will shape to your feet faster.