Hey there. Welcome to our round-up of the best boots for loggers and workers in the Forestry industry.
In A Rush?!
Overall, The Best Logger Boot
With Chainsaw Protection
We’ve put together a list of some of the best logger work boots and our #1 recommendation based on what we’ve found in our research is the Haix Protector.
What's Inside?
- Overall, The Best Logger Boot With Chainsaw Protection
- Here are the top 10 best logger boots brands
- Chainsaw Cut Protection Caulk Boots For Loggers
- Waterproof Rubber & Leather Calk Boots
- 800G Insulated Logging Corked Work Boots
- Moderate Arch Support Logger Work Boots
- High Shaft Logger Boots With Spiked Soles
- Waterproof Spiked Rubber Logger Boots
- Plain Toe Caulk Boots For Forestry Work
- Spiked Sole Logger Boots With Soft Toe Box
- Wide Fit Corked Boots For Logging Work
- Soft Toe Caulk Boots
- What You Must Know About Logging Boots Before Buying Yours
- Top 10 best rated logger boots brands for forestry work
- Logger style work boots options
- 8 Inch Waterproof Logger Style Boots
- 9 inch EH Rated Logger Style Boots
- 8 Inch 400g Insulated Logger Style Boot
- 8 Inch Steel Toe Logger Style Work Boots
- 9 inch Composite Safety Toe Logger Style Boots
- 8-Inch Composite Toe Logging Style Boots
- 8 Inch Steel Toe Logger Style Work Boots
- 9 Inch Logger Boots With Puncture Resistant Sole
- 8 Inch Steel Toe Logger Style Boots
- 10.5 Inch Logger Style Work Boots Crafted In The US
- 9 Inch Square Toe Logging Style Work Boots
- 9 Inch Cheap Logger Style Work Boots
- 9 Inch Soft Toe Logger Style Work Boots
- 14 Inch Pull-On Logging Style Boots
- 8 Inch Soft Toe Logger Style Work Boots
- 9 Inch Composite Toe Logger Style Work Boots
- Last words on this logger work boots round-up
- Comfortable & Ligthtweight Logger Work Boot
To bring you this article we’ve researched over 47 websites, looked at 50 different work boot brands and models and we have read dozens of customer reviews and feedback for each make of boot that made the cut, as well as a few that did not.
Overall we’ve spent over 82 hours looking into all of these logger work boots to bring you the most important information for each boot.
Special thanks to the awesome people in the work boots subreddit that answered some questions I had related to logger work boots. Here’s the thread.
This article has a few sections and it’s important to know this…
- In the first section you’ll find work boots that are exclusively great for loggers that need caulks or spikes on their soles for extra safety and protection.
- In the second part of the article, you’ll find a few popular logger-style boots that can be used by pretty much anybody that works in the woods or like to hike, hunt, study nature, etc!
You can jump straight into the caulk boots reviews section or to the logger style boots section. Additionally, jump to the Q&A section first (if you want to learn more about this).
Here are the top 10 best logger boots brands
Here’s a quick comparison table if you’re curious about which logging boots I’ve included in today’s round-up.
Most of these work boots are handmade in the USA, Canada, and other countries with a rich shoemaking culture.
Every single caulk boot in this list has been recommended to me by professional loggers I’ve talked to either on social media, forestry forums or on Reddit. They’re not listed in any particular order.
1. Haix
- Gore-Tex liner
- Steel shank
- Steel toe
Chainsaw Cut Protection Caulk Boots For Loggers
2. Hoffman Pacs
- Waterproof
- Wool liners
- Soft toe cap
Waterproof Rubber & Leather Calk Boots
3. Danner
- Gore-Tex lining
- PU shank
- Plain toe box
800G Insulated Logging Corked Work Boots
4. Nicks
- 12 Inch tall
- Arch support
- Soft toe box
Moderate Arch Support Logger Work Boots
5. Wesco
- 16 Inch tall
- Leather shank
- Soft toe
High Shaft Logger Boots With Spiked Soles
6. Viking
- 11 Inch tall
- Replaceable caulks
- Soft toe
Waterproof Spiked Rubber Logger Boots
7. JK Boots
- 10 Inch tall
- Fire resitant thread
- Non safety toe
Plain Toe Caulk Boots For Forestry Work
8. White’s
- 10 Inch tall
- Arch support
- Soft toe
Spiked Sole Logger Boots With Soft Toe Box
9. Frank’s
- 10 Inch tall
- Lineman shank
- Soft toe
Wide Fit Corked Boots For Logging Work
10. Viberg
- 10 Inch tall
- 100% leather
- Non-safety toe
Soft Toe Caulk Boots
What You Must Know About Logging Boots Before Buying Yours
Logger style boots vs real Forestry work boots
The first thing we need to make clear is that “logger looking like” work boots are not the same thing as propper logger/forestry work boots.
You’ll see many work boots out there that have the looks of logger boots but they’re not up for the task.
Just because the boots have high heels and a sturdy Vibram outsole, that doesn’t mean the boots are great for logging.
You can get away with the logger looking like work boots if for example your work as a construction contractor and go through a lot of mud or soft ground and rough terrain conditions.
The high heel and sturdy outsole with deep lugs will provide great traction. Same thing if you work a lot around the farm or maybe do landscaping…
…but for forestry work people like to use calked boots!
What does OSHA say about logging boots?
After doing some research and talking to many loggers I thought that the use of spiked sole boots is a MUST. I thought it was something that’s required by OSHA.
But I couldn’t find anything like that. If you have more knowledge or you can point me to an OSHA document that says YOU MUST wear calk soled boots when logging, please let me know and I’m more than happy to review this section.
Here’s what I found though: 1910.266(d)(1)(v) – Logging Operations
“The employer shall assure that each employee wears foot protection, such as heavy-duty logging boots that are waterproof or water repellent, cover and provide support to the ankle.
The employer shall assure that each employee who operates a chain saw wears foot protection that is constructed with cut-resistant material which will protect the employee against contact with a running chain saw.
Sharp, calk-soled boots or other slip-resistant type boots may be worn where the employer demonstrates that they are necessary for the employee’s job, the terrain, the timber type, and the weather conditions provided that foot protection otherwise required by this paragraph is met.“
So basically, you MAY use spiked soles when necessary but they’re NOT A MUST!
With that in mind, you can buy any work boot you like that meets the above criteria but my advice is to always ask the more experienced loggers what they wear or even better ask your employer what boots are acceptable!
Who else use logger-style boots?
Some people like to buy logger-looking boots when they work in the forest because of the sturdiness of the boot, the traction that the high heel provides, and the ankle support.
As we’ve said already some construction workers like to wear these. Also workers such as:
- Thining and planting crews
- Truckers
- Machinists
- Explorers
- Mountaineers
- Field biologists
- Hikers
- Linemen
- Arborists
- Consultants foresters
- Forestry students
And many, many others working or enjoying the outdoors life.
Cheap vs expensive logger boots
In this best logger boots round up you’ll find work boots going from around $100 all the way up to around $700+…
Are the cheaper logger boots worse than the more expensive models?
I don’t know but from the hundreds of reviews I’ve read in preparation for this article, the biggest advantage I’ve seen on the expensive vs cheap boots is how long they last.#
The most expensive brands make boots that last for 5-7-10 years whereas the brands that real logger won’t wear are not lasting more than roughly 2-3 years and that’s including resoling them once.
Oh and the service you’ll get buying expensive boots you’ll never get by being boots at Walmart or any online store.
Other than that, there are not many differences in my opinion. Some cheaper brands also use good quality leather, good quality boot construction, resolable, comfortable, etc.
Stock versus custom made logger boots
Waiting times are ridiculous and due to the increasing demand for this type of expensive work boots, the queue is becoming even longer.
If you want a custom pair of logging work boots get mentally ready so you can be patient as these boots can take months to get done.
If you’re not in a rush or if you don’t mind waiting and if you have a good healthy budget by all means go for a custom-made logging boot.
If not you should consider what’s on the shelf. They’re not worse than the custom made and probably they are a bit cheaper too. In terms of how the boots will fit, custom-made boots will fit like a glove (and you shouldn’t expect anything less than that).
Not all logger work boots are created equal
Not everybody working in the logging industry needs the same type of features in a pair of logging work boots.
Some of you might need chainsaw protection, some of you might need calls, some of you might need both.
So depending on what type of activity you do in the forestry/logging industry, you might need a boot with different features.
What’s the best place to buy logger boots?
The best place to buy caulk boots is at your specialized forestry gear local store. You can’t really find corked boots on a shelf in some random big store.
Some of you really love the in-store experience, getting your feet measured, and all that good jazz. Don’t get me wrong, I like it too but I just don’t have time, unfortunately.
You will find a few brands that sell cork boots on Amazon but in my opinion, the best site to buy caulk boots is Hoffman’s website.
Why?
For the simple reason that these people will not only offer you their own spike soled boots but also other brands too.
Just to name a few, Hoffman personalizes brands such as:
- Haix
- Meindls
- Danner
And then each brand has its own website where you can either buy something they might have in stock or place an order for a new boot to be made on-demand.
Top 10 best rated logger boots brands for forestry work
Alright, let’s talk a little a bit about each one of the brands or boot models in this best logger boots round-up…
They are not listed necessarily in any particular order other than that at the top we’ll have the most popular logging boots as picked by the loggers I’ve talked to.
And towards the bottom, you’ll have some more suggestions that could be a good option if you prefer cheaper work boots or at least you’re on a low budget at the moment.
These will get into work and as soon as you can afford it, you can come back and visit this list to see what the real logging pros out there are wearing day in day out.
1. Haix Protector
Steel Toe Logger Boots For Everyday Wear
I’ve chosen these Haix work boots as the best logger boots simply because of their versatility. According to loggers I’ve talked to, you can use them when you’re deep in the woods as well as when you’re working on more flat, harder surfaces.
Many of the boots in this round-up come with different types of calks which is what most loggers prefer but sometimes it’s not the most practical option.
Especially if you change a lot between rough terrain to concrete or some hard surface and vice-versa.
These are some of the most popular work boots for those using chainsaws as part of their daily tasks.
And that’s because these logger boots meet cut protection class Level 2 which simply means that your feet are safe from chainsaw cuts (as long as the chainsaw running speed is below 24m/s).
They’re packed with quality features that will keep you safe and comfortable whilst you’re walking or working in the forest.
If you get these boots on Huffman’s website you can get them with a full calked sole as opposed to the Vibram outsole that you can add a few spikes to the arch area.
PROS
- Gore-Tex waterproof lining
- Metal puncture resistant sole
- Can add spikes accessory
- Steel toe cap
- Waterproof but breathable
CONS
- Not easily resolable being a boot that’s been built with the cemented sole construction instead of Goodyear welt or something similar.
2. Hoffman Pro Series Calk
USA Made Insulated Calk
Boots For Loggers
If you’re logging in winter conditions these Hoffman Pac can be a great option.
They’re not only waterproof thanks to their rubber bottom but they’re also warm thanks to the 200gram of Thinsulate that comes with the liners of these boots.
The good thing is that these liners are removable so you can take them out and wash them if you need to or replace them if they get worn out.
These Huffman Pacs are also resistant to chainsaw cuts or at least they help with slowing down chain saw penetrating your boots so you can stop hopefully in time and avoid serious injuries.
Personally, I don’t like the mix of rubber and leather in terms of how it looks but at the end of the day when you are out in the woods you’re thinking more about safety rather than how cool you’ll look in a pair of logger boots.
Another boot from Hoffman logger I’ve talked recommended is these Hoffman Armor Pros.
This one, just like the Haix from above doesn’t come with caulks. It comes with a great Vibram outsole and other good features that provide comfort and safety for people working in the woods that don’t necessarily need spikes for traction.
PROS
- Waterproof
- Insulated
- Removable liners
- Durable and tough bottoms
- Replaceable calks
- Made in America
CONS
- Not the best looking boot in the list in my opinion.
3. Danner Pronghorns
8″ Gore-Tex Lightweight
Waterproof Logger Boots
Hoffman is customizing these boots with spiked soles and you can’t get them on many other places out there. For example, you can’t buy them on Amazon, Boot Barn, Zappos, and similar places.
Get the Danner Pronghorn with the calk soles on the Hoffman boots website.
The boot model and color might be different than the one you see in the image above or even the one on Huffman’s website.
The best thing you can do is to email them first and ask them to show a few pictures of the specific Danner Pronghorn you’ll receive if you were to order a pair.
Not everybody in the forestry business uses a chain saw so not every boot needs to provide a safety feature against chain saw cuts.
As with many other logger boots in this list, these are not offering protection against chain saw cuts. So you might want to talk to your employer first to make sure these are good for what you’re going to do.
The fact that the boots are made out of Gore-Tex makes them a great option for working in wet conditions and also reducing significantly the weight of the boots compared to the others in this list that are 100% made with good quality, thick leather!
PROS
- Lightweight
- Flexible
- Wateproof
- Gore-Tex upper
CONS
- They don’t offer chainsaw protection.
4. Nicks Woodsman
12″ Non Metalic Toe Cap Caulk Boots
This is another classic boot for those of you in the forestry industry.
Being 12″ high, this Nicks’ Woodsman boot provides great ankle support and also keeps a lot of the vegetation and dirt out of your boots.
These logger boots are handmade in the USA and I know for some of you this is an important factor when choosing a work boot.
They don’t comply with the ASTM F2413-18 M/I/C Rated standard which basically means they don’t come with a safety toe cap.
So if that’s important for you or it’s a must at your workplace then you’ll have to consider another boot or reach out to Nicks and ask them if they can fit a steel toe cap in there.
At this price point and the boots being hand made I’m pretty sure Nicks will find a solution for you! (these are probably the most expensive work boots on this list).
According to some loggers I spoke with they are well worth the money, especially when you talk about the durability of the boots. They’ll last for many, many years!
PROS
- Resolable
- Rebuildable
- Caulk outsole
- Heavy duty
- Made in the USA
CONS
- One the expensive side
5. Wesco Timber
16″ Logger Boots
(Good For Linemen Too)
Sturdy 16″ cork boots from Wesco. This is another brand that loggers trust when they’re out working in the wilderness.
They’re made from top-quality leather that’s tough to withstand the abuse that you as a logger will put the boots through.
It comes with a soft toe box so make sure to check with your foreman if these are suitable for your job. You might need a safety toe cap…
The screw-in calks in these Wesco timber boots are alloy made. They’re made exclusively for Wesco and you can remove them when you don’t need them.
These boots are great for logging, but also for foresters, lumberjacks, and other outdoors explorers and enthusiasts.
If you think these 16inch logger boots are too tall for you, Wesco has a version that comes with a 12inch tall upper. Make sure to check out Wesco’s website for more details about this boot!
PROS
- Alloy calks
- Removable calks
- Removable footbed
- Tough leather upper
CONS
- Soft toe may compromise your safety- speak to your sites manager or safety officer to see if this is the right boot pair for you
6. Viking Forester
Waterproof Spiked
Forester Caulked Boots
If you really want waterproof work boots there’s nothing better than a pair of boots made of rubber. These will keep water, mud, oil, chemicals away from your feet keeping your feet dry for the whole duration of the shift.
We all know how uncomfortable it is to work with your feet wet not to mention the increased risk of developing foot conditions like Athlete’s foot or similar bacteria or funguses.
The spikes on these boots are removable so you take them off and put them on as needed.
Even though these are not the best for working in cold weather, if you find yourself working or walking on ice they’ll do a great job at keeping you on your feet due to the spiked soles.
Before you buy them it’s good to know that they don’t come with a safety toe. These Viking logger boots come with a regular soft toe cap so you might want to check first with your employer if these are allowed.
Ideal for loggers of course but also for timber rafting, professional arborists, harvesters, log quality inspectors, and more.
PROS
- Lightweight
- Flexible
- Removable caulks
- Gusseted tongue
CONS
- Not insulated so they might not be for you if you work in sub-zero temperatures.
7. JK Boots
10″ Logger Boots Hand-made In The US
Some loggers swear by these boots. They say the craftsmanship on these boots is out of this world and the quality is top-notch, especially if you get them custom-made.
These JK logger caulked boots are made with premium oil-tanned leather and as we’ve seen in a few other brands in this space, JK used rough-out leather on the bottom part of the upper and smooth leather on the rest of the boot.
The hardware on these boots it’s a mix of high-quality eyelets (the first 4 raws) with 7 rows of speed hooks to make it easier to put them on and take them off.
The insole, the midsole, and even the arch support in this boot is made of genuine oak tanned leather.
The beautiful thing about this brand is that it’s a small family business run by John Khadzi (JK) who started the business together with his wife and now they gave their 3 sons, all working together making some great work boots.
On the other hand, though, the orders can get slow and the waiting period can seriously increase if they fall behind with the deliveries.
PROS
- USA made boots by a family business
- Removable leather insole
- Arch support
- Resolable
- Rebuildable
CONS
- The most expensive corked boots in this list but according to customers it’s well spent money since the boots will alst a decade.
8. White’s Block Heel Logger
10″ Caulk Spike Sole Logging Boots
White’s has been making work boots for loggers for over 100 years and they’ve been using pretty much the same methods and techniques over the years to build top-quality caulk boots.
I can’t put my finger on it but there’s something about these logging boots that I liked very much.
I’m not a logger myself and I’m not getting anything for saying this but I think that if I wanted to buy (and if I could afford it as well lol) I’d go for these logging work boots.
These White’s come in regular width (D) and also in wide (EE). If you have wider feet than EE, make sure you give White’s a call and chat about it. Maybe they can make something for you.
In terms of comfort and support these White’s corked boots come with a leather midsole that will mold to your feet as you wear them and also it comes with a leather shank. In my opinion not as good as a steel shank but that’s what you get with these bad boys.
Also, they make them in half sizes which is great for those of you that like to have some extra room in the boot to allow for thicker socks in winter.
PROS
- Rebuildable
- Resolable
- Leather shank
- Nail bottom construction
- Customizable
CONS
- Long waiting periods if the boot is not in stock
9. Frank’s Clearcut
10″ Lace To Toe Logger Work Boots
This is another popular boot brand within the logging industry. The boot has been named after a term you loggers are using quite a lot: Clearcut.
Frank’s Clearcut comes with replaceable calk bottom to provide traction and grip when you’re walking over those logs or through the wilderness.
The boot upper is made of full-grain leather that’s water-resistant. Remember water-resistant doesn’t mean waterproof. If you want 100% waterproof work boots go with the Viking rubber boots mentioned above.
If you’re curious to know here’s how I waterproof my leather work boots.
For the lower part of the upper Frank’s used rough-out leather and smooth leather for the rest of the upper. That’s not just because it looks really good but it’s mostly done this way because the rough-out leather it’s more resistant to cut and abrasion than the smooth leather.
And rough out leather also hides cuts, scratches, scuffs, etc better than smooth leather.
With many other brands mentioned in this best logging boots round-up you’ll have a very small choice when it comes to what sizes and width they offer. Not with these Frank’s caulked boots.
Sizes go from as low as size 4 all the way up to size 15 and width from A all the way up to FF. Major positive point!
PROS
- Rebuildabble
- Resolable
- Water resistant
- Replaceable calk bottom
- Large selection of sizes and width
CONS
- You can’t find too many opinions and feedback about this brand so it makes me think they’re not that popular as other brands in this list
10. Viberg Chokerman
10″ Caulk Boots For Forestry Workers
The first thing I liked about these Viberg Chockerman caulk boots is that they come with a steel shank. This is probably the best shank in a pair of work boots for people working in the forestry industry.
It’s helpful because it provides rigidity and support under your feet when you’re stepping on hard, edgy things, or maybe when you’re climbing it helps maintain arch support and avoid feet pain.
They say the boot comes with “hard toes” but I don’t think they mean “safety toe” something like a steel toe cap or a composite toe cap.
You’d be pleased to know that there’s a big chance of finding your size since these boots are available in size 3.5 all the way up to 15 and in AA, B, D, EE, and 4E widths. If they don’t have it in stock you’ll have to contact them and they’ll make one for you.
The outsoles are made of Topy neoprene which makes the boot lighter than other boots that use rubber outsoles.
PROS
- Lightweight
- Cushioned heel
- Steel shank
- Arch support
- Double leather vamps
- Brass hardware
CONS
- Not too many complaints about this boot. Some users think this is an overpriced logger boot.
Logger style work boots options
Alright, now that we’ve looked at some real logging boots that can withstand the punishment of such hard work now let’s have at some boots that are not usually used by loggers per se but they’re good cheaper alternatives to these expensive logging work boots.
You can use these logger-style boots for many different activities in the woods where the ground might be soft (gravel, trail, mud, or sand) or simply it’s just rough to walk through.
The high heel and deep lugs will dig into the ground and help you have better traction but in some situations, these will not make the cut for real logging activities.
I’m not going deep into these but I’ll share with you what are some of the popular choices and some of their most important features in the table below.
3. Danner
- 360° Goodyear Welt
- Rough-oute leather
- Soft toe
8 Inch 400g Insulated Logger Style Boot
4. Georgia
- 360° Goodyear welt
- Steel shank
- Steel toe
8 Inch Steel Toe Logger Style Work Boots
5. Thorogood
- Steel shank
- 600gr insulation
- Comp toe
9 inch Composite Safety Toe Logger Style Boots
6. Carhartt
- Waterproof membrane
- Achilles flex joint
- Comp toe
8-Inch Composite Toe Logging Style Boots
7. Wolverine
- Not waterproof
- 100% leather
- Soft toe
8 Inch Steel Toe Logger Style Work Boots
8. Timberland
- Resolable
- Steel shank
- Steel toe cap
9 Inch Logger Boots With Puncture Resistant Sole
9. Irish Setter
- Heat Resistant Sole
- EH rated
- Steel toe cap
8 Inch Steel Toe Logger Style Boots
10. Justin
- Removable insole
- Resolable
- Steel toe cap
10.5 Inch Logger Style Work Boots Crafted In The US
11. Rocky
- Oil resistant
- Resolable
- Soft toe box
9 Inch Square Toe Logging
Style Work Boots
12. AdTec
- Slip Resistant sole
- Resolable
- Soft toe box
9 Inch Cheap Logger Style Work Boots
13. Red Wing
- EH rated
- Resolable
- Soft toe box
9 Inch Soft Toe Logger
Style Work Boots
14. Twisted X
- Mesh lining
- Resolable
- Composite toe
14 Inch Pull-On Logging Style Boots
15. Skechers
- 270° Goodyear Welt
- Resolable
- Soft toe box
8 Inch Soft Toe Logger
Style Work Boots
16. Ariat
- Composite shank
- Resolable
- Comp toe
9 Inch Composite Toe Logger Style Work Boots
Last words on this logger work boots round-up
The thing to keep in mind is that when you’re out there browsing for the best logging work boots on the market don’t just go with what you read on the internet.
Ask your colleagues, your manager, go on a related forum, etc. Of course, you can trust the information you read here because that’s exactly what I did.
I went out there and asked all the relevant questions to the right people and that’s how I came up with this article.
So remember, if you’re going to do logging work is best to go for boots with spiked soles to give you extra grip whilst walking over logs, threes, wild vegetation, etc.
If your work in the woods doesn’t involve any of that you can go for a Vibram soled logger style work boot with deep lugs and a high heel to provide you with that extra traction you’ll need whilst working in the wilderness.
Comfortable & Ligthtweight
Logger Work Boot
Team Members Working On This Page
Jessica Flynn – Writer And Researcher
Love technology, going to the beach, taking care of my body, and writing (amongst other things). You’ll see my face around here a little bit since I’m responsible for part of the research and writing of some of the articles you’re reading on BestForMyFeet.com. I hope you’ll find our content helpful and enjoyable! See you around, thanks for reading!
Victor Adrian – Editor & Construction Professional
Construction Professional, driver, crane operator, cleaner, head chef … these are just some of the jobs I did in the past. Working in all these different environments taught me that having good footwear to protect your feet from different dangers at work IS PARAMOUNT for any worker! On this website, I aim to share all my knowledge and personal experience in dealing with different footwear and foot care issues, and hopefully, you can get something out of it. Enjoy!
Yes Sir, finally a list that’s accurate. There are a few more brands you could have included in there but this is pretty spot on really!
Good job, great post (saw your post on Reddit)
haha, thanks a bunch man. I appreciate it. It took a lot of work 🙂
I had previously purchased the black logger boots of Ad Tec brand for riding my motorcycle and I really like them. Nice thrills to wear all day and ride all day. They aren’t good for staying on your bases all day. I used them for my work when I took the bike and after about 3 hours I took them off, perhaps it’s better if you move and work in it, but sitting still on a concrete bottom for 3 hours was mine Maximum
Hey Robert, thanks for sharing. Yeah, these type of work boots are definitely not going to be comfortable if you’re standing a lot on hard, especially if it’s concrete.
Have you moved to another brand or model since?