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How To Choose the Right Work Boots for Asphalt Work?

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There are multiple problems that asphalt workers face on a daily basis when it comes to their footwear, such as: 

  • Working on their feet for a very long period of time (usually 8 to 10 hours a day) without appropriate work boots, which causes tension on their feet, joints, and back.
  • Managing hot and potentially hazardous materials (such as superheated tar) that might completely destroy their work boots and then burn their feet.
  • Working outside in the elements without suitable foot protection
  • Seeing their costly pair of work boots ruined after only a few months of normal use.

All of these matters actually require that asphalt workers wear appropriate work boots with functionalities that ensure their safety, comfort, and boots’ sturdiness. And in this article, you will find a list of the 10 right work boots for asphalt work, a buying guide, as well as other related issues with detailed answers to help you make an informed decision.

What Are The Right Work Boots for Asphalt Work?

Work Boots for Asphalt Work

There are a lot of different attributes you need to consider in a pair of asphalt work boots. Not all pairs have all of those features. This means that no work boot is perfect. 

But I need to pick one model to be the right work boots for asphalt work, and it would be Irish Setter Men’s 83606 Aluminum Safety Toe Work Boots for Asphalt Work. The Cofra Insulated Breathable Heat Resistant Asphalt Work Boots, on the other hand, will be a more affordable option for lots of asphalt workers.

And here is the list with outstanding features of the 10 right work boots for asphalt work.

Timberland PRO Men’s 6-Inch 40000 MetGuard Work Boots for Asphalt Work

Timberland PRO Men’s 6-Inch 40000 MetGuard

“Offer terrific comfort, good support & cushioning, protective Metguard, lessen foot stress, abrasion-resistant sole, steel toe caps”

Irish Setter Men’s 83606 Aluminum Safety Toe Work Boots for Asphalt Work

“Waterproof & lightweight design, added cushioning, ankle and toe protection, heat-resistant sole to prevent hot asphalt”

COFRA Insulated Breathable Heat Resistant Asphalt Work Boots

“Puncture-resistant sole plate, exceptional heat prevention, water-resistant leather, composite toe caps, short break-in time”

ROCKROOSTER Elk Woods Men’s 8-Inch 84430 Work Boots for Asphalt Work

“Oil, slip, and heat-resistant outsole, Goodyear welt construction, waterproof membrane, good breathability and stability level”

Ariat Men’s Hermosa Cobalt XR 8″ Work Boots for Asphalt Work

Ariat Men’s Hermosa Cobalt XR 8″

“Thermodynamic and X-static anti-static lining, molded heel protector for extra stability & durability, Cobalt XR Technology for optimum comfort”

Thorogood American Heritage 6-Inch Wedge Outsole Work Boots for Asphalt Work

“Premium leather, electric shock-resistant soles, added stability, terrific slip resistance and grip, excellent cushioning and comfort”

Wolverine Men’s Contractor LX WPF Composite Safety Work Boots for Asphalt Work

“Comfortable fit with the Posi Fit heel design, abrasion & slip-resistant outsole, keep foot away from wet, cushioned footbeds”

COFRA Leather Heat Defender Nitrile Rubber Outsole Work Boots for Asphalt Work

“Non-metallic APT PLATE to prevent penetration, water-repellent leather, chemical-resistant design, heat-resistant sole”

Timberland PRO Men’s Wedge Sole 6-Inch Work Boots for Asphalt Work

“Moccasin-toe stitching, heat-resistant sole to walk on asphalt, short & comfy break-in time, great cushioning, durable”

COFRA Heat Shield Treadless Composite Safety Toe Work Boots

“Fireproof seams, adjustable instep protection and Velcro closure, flame and heat resistance for asphalt working environments”

Work Boots for Asphalt Work – Comparison Chart

The outsole is among the most crucial elements when it comes to the right work boots for asphalt work. But it doesn’t mean other factors are not important. That is why I created this table to help you compare different criteria of these boots easily. 

Work Boots for Asphalt Work Materials  Outsoles  Safety toe  Weight (item/package)
Timberland PRO Men’s 6-Inch 40000 MetGuard Work Boots for Asphalt Work Ever Guard leather Oil, slip, and abrasion-resistant rubber Steel safety toe caps 2.3 lbs
Irish Setter Men’s 83606 Aluminum Safety Toe Work Boots for Asphalt Work Waterproof full-grain leather Heat-resistant rubber Aluminum safety toe caps 2.06 lbs
Cofra Insulated Breathable Heat Resistant Asphalt Work Boots Water-repellent leather Non-slip, heat-resistant PU/nitrile rubber Composite safety toe caps 1.76 lbs
ROCKROOSTER Elk Woods Men’s 8-Inch 84430 Work Boots for Asphalt Work Genuine leather Oil, slip, and heat-resistant rubber Soft toe box 4.2 lbs
Ariat Men’s Hermosa Cobalt XR 8″ Work Boots for Asphalt Work Full-grain leather Slip, abrasion-resistant duratread Roper toe box
Thorogood American Heritage 6-Inch Wedge Outsole Work Boots for Asphalt Work Oil-tanned full-grain leather Non-slip PU Maxwear wedge  Steel safety toe caps 5.2 lbs
Wolverine Men’s Contractor LX WPF Composite Safety Work Boots for Asphalt Work Leather Abrasion, slip-resistant rubber Composite safety toe caps 1.62 lbs
COFRA Leather Heat Defender Nitrile Rubber Outsole Work Boots for Asphalt Work Water-repellent leather Slip, puncture, heat-resistance PU/nitrile rubber Composite safety toe caps 1.76 lbs
Timberland PRO Men’s Wedge Sole 6-Inch Work Boots for Asphalt Work Leather Heat-resistant rubber  Soft toe box 2.1 lbs
COFRA Heat Shield Treadless Composite Safety Toe Work Boots Water-resistant leather Slip, puncture, heat-resistance PU/nitrile rubber Composite safety toe caps 1.76 lbs

Buying Guide: How To Choose the Right Work Boots for Asphalt Work?

Choose the Right Work Boots for Asphalt work

Asphalt work requires workers to prepare protective footwear to keep their feet safe from hot and other hazardous conditions. That is why opting for the right work boots for asphalt work needs more effort. You will need to consider different features to see which attributes are the most suitable for your situation. Here are several important features you can keep in mind. 

Flat Outsoles

Paving workers always have to work with hot pavement on a regular basis. Unfortunately, because of its pliable nature, it is very simple to produce marks on it, which might endanger the quality of the final product.

As a result, I would recommend having work boots with anti-skid, non-marking flat outsoles. In view of this, you can rest assured that the possibilities of leaving marks on the heating or cooling pavement are negligible, and you will absolutely enjoy optimum traction and grip as well as avoid horrible injuries.

Abrasion and Heat-Resistant Outsoles

As a paving worker, you typically spend the majority of your days working with abrasive materials (molten tar, for example). These materials not only have the potential to burn through ill-prepared work boots, but they also have the potential to severely injure them.

That is why I believe that purchasing work boots with abrasion and heat-resistant outsoles is the best way to maintain superheated molten tar from burning through the work boots’ outsoles and starting to contact with your feet. As a result, you can work knowing that your feet are safe from such dangerous substances.

Composite Safety Toe Caps

Safety Toe Caps

Many people might be wondering if they should get steel or composite safety toe for asphalt work boots. In this case, work boots made with composite safety toe caps are considered the best option as they are not only super strong but also do not conduct heat. This is really important when you are working with molten tar because it protects your feet from being burned while keeping the toes from being crushed.

Asphalt workers, in particular, may take advantage of these safety toe caps because they quite often work with heavy machinery (such as steamrollers), which can endanger their toes if not handled properly.

Full Gusset Tongue

It may appear extremely simple. Asphalt workers, on the other hand, should invest in a pair of work boots with full gusset tongues.

Consider this for a moment. Wouldn’t you rather be wearing a pair of tough work boots with full gusset tongues that appropriately protect your feet if superheated molten tar flew into your feet? So there you have it.

Protection Against The Elements

There is nothing worse than seeing your costly work boots destroyed after only a few months of normal use. Unfortunately, most asphalt workers face this issue because they often work outside while being exposed to strong winds, hot sun, snow, rain, and other harsh elements. 

It is this situation that requires the right work boots for asphalt work to have particular characteristics that are difficult to find in the same pair of regular work boots.

In that case, I advise asphalt workers to purchase work boots with insulation and waterproofing features. The goal here is to ensure that no liquids, snow, or debris enter the work boots and come into contact with your feet.

Shock-Absorbing Midsoles and Footbeds 

The majority of paving workers I know have the same issue. In particular, they have to stand for the majority of their 10-hour work shifts on tough pavement. This, of course, will put a lot of strain on their joints and feet, which usually results in some foot issues such as foot ache, knee pain, and even lower back pain. 

To address these problems, purchasing work boots with contoured footbeds and midsoles may be a good idea. These attributes are responsible for decreasing the likelihood of overloading the joints by absorbing the shock caused by walking all day long on asphalt. As a result, you can stand or walk for an extended period of time on rough surfaces without suffering serious consequences. You can also combine this with easy home remedies to significantly reduce foot pain.

Fit

A pair of work boots that does not fit perfectly is not only uncomfortable and hazardous to your health, but it also poses a safety risk. So, always ensure that your boots are comfortable and do not squeeze or chafe when you are walking.

Durability

Asphalt work is a difficult job in an even harsher environment. As a result, durability components are important in this facet. I would suggest tough leather uppers and rugged rubber or Vibram outsoles with Cement construction or Goodyear Welt construction. All of these attributes will make sure your boots are enduring and sturdy enough to resist such severe conditions.

Breathable Linings

Working in the scorching sun next to super hot molten tar while wearing heavy leather work boots is the worst feeling. It is like continuously dipping your feet in hot lava.

Investing in work boots with moisture-wicking, air-permeable mesh linings is the best option in this situation. These liners enable fresh air to flow easily through the inside of the work boots, lowering the temperature of your feet. As a consequence, working with molten tar while maintaining your feet cool, dry, and fresh is possible now.

What Is Asphalt Work Boots?

A pair of work boots for asphalt work is simply a type of footwear with particular qualities designed for paving. These characteristics are as follows:

  • Non-marking flat outsoles, offering excellent traction and grip on paving roads while leaving no trace of their presence.
  • Heat and abrasion -resistance outsoles, enabling wearers to manage superheated molten tar without destroying their work boots.
  • Composite safety toe caps are the best as they don’t conduct heat.
  • Abrasion-resistant leather uppers, allowing wearers to work safely with abrasive paving substances.

Is It Necessary For Asphalt Workers To Wear Special Work Boots?

Asphalt Workers To Wear Special Work Boots

Of course. Paving workers are subjected to a variety of specific risks that are uncommon in other fields, such as:

  • Handling hot molten tar and gravels that can severely burn their skin or ruin the work boots.
  • Standing or walking on the hot asphalt all day long puts a severe strain or stress on the joints and feet.
  • Exposing yourself to different elements while working outdoors.

As a result, asphalt workers need special work boots with certain attributes that address all of the previously listed issues.

Read more: How To Choose The Right Shower Shoes for Women?

What Are the Risks Involved in Paving?

Risks Involved in Paving

As previously stated, asphalt workers are subjected to different types of hazards on the work site. They are as follows:

  • Risky machinery: Asphalt workers are accustomed to working with heavy equipment (such as steamrollers) that is extremely hazardous to their feet. This is the major reason why I advise purchasing work boots with safety toe caps. 
  • Underfoot pierces: When paving, workers regularly come into contact with abrasive materials and sharp tools. These things can penetrate through the outsoles of the work boots at any time and cause foot injury.
  • Excessive heat (molten tar): Paving requires hot, molten tar. As a result, all paving workers must be exposed to its exceedingly high temperatures. This substance is not only hot but also extremely caustic, which is why abrasion resistance is a must-have characteristic for the right work boots for asphalt work.
  • Tough pavement: Another major issue for asphalt workers is that the majority of them are asked to stand on hot asphalt for 10-12 hours in the scorching sun. This not only ends up getting extremely hot, but it also puts a severe strain on their joints and feet, which typically results in the foot, knee, and lower-back pain.

See more: How To Choose The Right Work Boots For Sweaty Feet?

How Do You Remove Asphalt From Your Work Boots?

I’m not going to lie, it’s a bit time-consuming, but it’s certainly feasible. You will need the materials down below to remove asphalt from your work boots:

  • Cleaning product (I prefer WD-40)
  • A plastic knife
  • A recipient soaked with soapy water
  • An old toothbrush

And here is the detailed process to follow:

  1. Place your work boots in the fridge and freeze them overnight. This will cause the asphalt to defrost, making removal easier.
  2. Remove the boots from the fridge after 10-12 hours and softly remove the asphalt off using a plastic knife.
  3. Then, immerse the toothbrush in soapy water and brush the asphalt from the work boots.
  4. Spray the work boots liberally with WD40 after removing the majority of the frozen asphalt, leaving only the stiffer specs of tar. This will ensure that the asphalt is well lubed and easy to remove.
  5. Allow 15 minutes for the work boots to rest.
  6. Remove the remaining asphalt with the plastic knife and a toothbrush immersed in soapy water.

And then you will have clean work boots with no asphalt or tar left. 

How Do Asphalt Workers Handle Burned Feet?

If there is one thing I can all agree on, it’s that working all day long in the scorching sun while managing superheated molten tar stinks. Paving workers, after all, are accustomed to experiencing hot feet, hot flashes, and other similar symptoms.

In this regard, the following are the most common methods used by asphalt workers to tackle these problems:

  • Opt for work boots with breathable linings to keep your feet cool, dry, and fresh.
  • Replacing work boots on a regular basis to enable fresh air to reach the feet.
  • Taking frequent short breaks. Remember to remove your work boots and inform your teammates that they will need to be covered.
  • Changing socks frequently to allow the feet and the interiors of the work boots to breathe
  • Using moisture-absorption socks to keep your feet fresh and odor-free.

Pro-tip: If you suffer from repeated and sore hot flashes or don’t feel well while paving, seeing a doctor is your best option. Ultimately, it is not going to work to solve your health problems with a new pair of work boots. Consult with a doctor for specific and exact problems as well as solutions.

Benefits of Having The Proper Work Boots For Asphalt Work

There are obvious advantages to purchasing any of the right work boots for asphalt work. The following are the most prevalent:

Safety and Protection

Do you get used to working in close proximity to superheated molten tar? It really stinks, right?

It not only causes your feet to perspire a lot, but it is also highly hazardous because it can easily burn your skin.

Fortunately, the right work boots for asphalt work reviewed in this article will protect your feet from coming into contact with such abrasive materials.

And what about liquids? Asphalt workers get used to addressing a wide range of chemical products and other liquids that can easily make your sock and feet wet or even cause severe chemical burns.

With all the models reviewed above, they have waterproofing characteristics that keep the feet dry and safe from these problems.

Comfort

Nothing is worse than having your feet sore and hurt after standing on rough pavement for 10-12 hours, right? Unfortunately, that is what an asphalt worker gets used to.

This is why I have recommended picking work boots with adequate impact absorption and cushioning characteristics since these are critical for relieving the strain that walking all day on rough surfaces places on the joints and feet.

Adaptability

Spending big bucks on work boots that don’t meet your needs is one of life’s most terrible experiences, right?

Asphalt workers face these issues on a regular basis because it is difficult to find the right work boots for asphalt work that can:

Asphalt workers face these issues on a regular basis because it is difficult to find the right work boots for asphalt work that can accommodate weather changes, offer comfort attributes while also being protective.

In that regard, I believe I have compiled a list of paving work boots capable of dealing with all of these concerns while also providing the versatility that an asphalt worker requires on a daily basis.

Find more: How To Choose The Right Work Boots For Wildland Firefighter?

My Top Picks

Choosing the right work boots for asphalt work is now easier with the list and buying guide above. I hope that you can select a proper pair for your needs and wallet too.

If you are still wondering which one to opt for, I would recommend the COFRA Insulated Breathable Heat Resistant Asphalt Work Boots as they are particularly designed to deal with hot asphalt thanks to their heat-defender nitrile rubber outsole and heat-resistant thermic insoles.

But if you need more durability, the Thorogood American Heritage 6-Inch Wedge Outsole Work Boots for Asphalt Work will be an ideal choice. 

Steven Ta
Steven Tahttps://www.theshoeboxnyc.com
I am a professional photographer and shoe-lover. With a deep-rooted passion for all things footwear and years of hands-on experience, I am your go-to guide in the awesome world of shoes
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