Hey there. Welcome to our best women’s steel toe work boot review for 2022 (updated for 2023).
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Best Women’s Steel Toe Work Boot
We’ve put together a list of the top 14 most popular Steel Toe Work Boots For Women and our #1 recommendation based on what we’ve found in our research is the Danner Bull Run, a work boot that brings all the best features of style and functionality.
What's Inside?
- Best Women’s Steel Toe Work Boot
- Compare these 14 best women’s steel toe work boots
- Stylish Women’s Steel Toe Boots
- Affordable Steel Toe Boots For Women
- Women’s Steel Toe Slip On Work Boots
- Cute Pink Women’s Steel Toe Work Boots
- Square Toe Women’s Steel Toe Western Cowboy Boots
- Round Toe Women’s Steel Toe Western Cowboy Boots
- Women’s Steel Toe Winter Work boots
- Below Ankle Women’s Steel Toe Work Boot
- Waterproof women’s steel toe work boots
- steel toe logger Work boots For Ladies
- women’s steel toe boots with metatarsal guard
- Harley Davidson Steel Toe Work Boots For Women
- women’s steel toe combat boots
- women’s steel toe rubber Work boots
- Reviews of the top 14 steel toe safety work boots for women
- Helpful Q&A related to steel toe work boots for women
- Last words on this review of women’s work boots
- The Best Ventilated Work Boot To Wear On Warm Weather
To bring you this article we’ve researched over 35 websites looked at 26 different best 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 54 hours of our time looking into all of these comfortable work boots to bring you the most important information for each boot.
We’ve done all of this research so that you do not have to!
In this article, you’ll learn about which are some of the newest and best steel toe work boots for women. As well as what accessories are available, comparisons with other brands and some things to consider before buying your boots.
So keep reading. There is a lot of good info in here…
Quick note ladies! If you want to buy a gift for your husband, boyfriend, etc check out these great steel toe work boots for men.
You can jump straight into the women’s steel toe work boots reviews section or go to the buyer’s guide first.
Compare these 14 best women’s steel toe work boots
Here’s a quick comparison table if you’re curious about which work boots we’ve included in our round-up.
1. Danner Bull Run
- Made in the US
- Ortholite foot-bed
- Rubber sole
Stylish Women’s
Steel Toe Boots
2. Skechers Peril
- Oil resistant sole
- Synthetic sole
- Removable foot-bed
Affordable Steel Toe
Boots For Women
3. Dr Martens Chelsea
- Waterproof
- Synthetic sole
- EH rated
Women’s Steel Toe
Slip On Work Boots
4. Safety Girl
- Waterproof membrane
- Oil resistant
- Rubber sole
Cute Pink Women’s Steel Toe Work Boots
5. Ariat Krista
- Waterproof
- 100% leather
- Rubber sole
Square Toe Women’s Steel Toe Western Cowboy Boots
6. Justin
- Waterproof
- Rubber sole
- Slip resistant
Round Toe Women’s Steel Toe Western Cowboy Boots
7. Timberland Pro
- Rubber sole
- 200g insulation
- Anti-fatigue tech
Women’s Steel Toe
Winter Work boots
8. Keen Detroit
- Rubber sole
- Slip resistant
- EH rated
Below Ankle Women’s
Steel Toe Work Boot
9. Wolverine Floorhand
- Slip resistant
- Lightweight
- Rubber sole
Waterproof women’s
steel toe work boots
10. Carolina boots
- Waterproof
- 100% leather
- Rubber sole
steel toe logger Work boots For Ladies
11. Timberland PRO
- Rubber sole
- Abrasion resistant
- EH rated
women’s steel toe boots with metatarsal guard
12. Harley Davidson
- Slip resistant
- 100% leather
- Synthetic sole
Harley Davidson Steel Toe Work Boots For Women
13. Bates
- Vibram sole
- Cushioned EVA
- Rubber sole
women’s steel toe
combat boots
14. Dunlop
- 100% waterproof
- Chemical resistant
- Cold insulation
women’s steel toe
rubber Work boots
Reviews of the top 14 steel toe safety work boots for women
Alright, let’s jump into some detailed reviews of each one of these ladies work boots we’ve included in today’s round-up.
1. Danner Bull Run
Stylish Women’s Steel
Toe Work Boots
Danner Women’s Bull Run Moc Toe 6″ ST Work Boot is an ideal work boot for women looking to bring style and substance to their work.
We love the contrasting summer brown leather and bright yellow laces which creates an overall summer feel that will make you stand out on the worksite.
The boot is also a ‘Moc Toe’. A Moc Toe refers to the moccasin stitching around the toe of the boot, which creates a more aesthetic style compared to a cap toe, as well as more space for your toes than a regular toe cap.
But the boots do not just look good, they are also incredibly practical. They feature an open-cell OrthoLite footbed which will keep your feet well cushioned; it will almost be like walking in slippers.
And of course, the boot features a steel toe cap that meets or exceeds the requisite ATSM standards for American worksites. So you can walk around in these boots confident that you will be protected from the dangers of the worksite.
If you want to know more about this brand check out this article: Are Danner work boots any good?
PROS
- Aesthetic summer brown leather
- Steel shank for extra durability and support
- Steel toe cap that meets or exceeds ATSM standards
- Oil and slip-resistant outsole for excellent traction.
CONS
- Steel toe work boots do mean the boots will be heavier than soft toe work boots.
2. Skechers Workshire Perril
Cheap Women’s Steel
Toe Work Boots
The Skechers for work Women’s Workshire Peril steel toe boot is a great shoe for any woman who wants to look good and feel comfortable at the same time.
The steel toe boot is made of leather so that it looks good, but it also has a lot of cushioning so that you can walk around all day without getting sore feet. The boot has a relaxed fit design, which means that it will be roomy enough to allow your toes to move freely.
The work boot also features a removable gel-infused footbed with memory foam cushioning.
Meaning that you can use the footbed to adjust the fit slightly if the boots feel too tight, or you do not like footbeds in your work boot.
The upper materials are constructed from oil-resistant synthetic upper materials meaning you can work with dangerous materials confident that these boots will provide you with the necessary protection.
It also has a durable outsole that helps to provide slip-resistant traction and excellent stability.
PROS
- Buffalo crazy horse leather upper, which is oil resistant and will become shinier as time goes on
- Lug pattern outsole for excellent traction
- Relaxed fit design for a comfortable fit, feels extra roomy!
CONS
- Some users have felt the steel toe pinch their feet as they work.
3. Dr Martens Chelsea
Waterproof Steel Toe
Work Boots For Ladies
If you are looking for a perfectly designed steel toe work boot, look no further than Dr Martens Chelsea.
The Dr. Martens 2976 Chelsea Boot is a new, feminine take on the classic Docs style. This women’s boot features soft, industrial-grade leather uppers with a heat-sealed and welted PVC outsole for maximum durability and traction.
Softair memory foam sock liner utilizes a raised grid pattern to promote airflow underfoot while protecting against electrical hazards.
Finally, the boot uses electrical hazard protection that will keep electricians and mechanics safe from the shocks of the modern worksite.
PROS
- Soft industrial-grade leather that is flexible and comfortable
- Soft air memory foam promotes airflow that will keep your feet well ventilated and cool
- Protects you against electrical hazards Safety Spec: ASTM F2413-11 FI/75 C/75.
- Steel toe boots are better for electric hazards and more lightweight.
CONS
- To avoid overstretching the Chelsea boots, which given the low heels is very easy, make sure you use a shoehorn when putting the boots on.
4. Safety Girl
Cute Pink Women’s Steel
Toe Work Boots
These Women’s Work Boots are perfect for the woman who needs to work hard and play harder.
The upper is made of durable nubuck leather that resists wear, water resistant membrane helps keep feet dry, and steel toe protects toes against impact from moving equipment, falling objects, or other hazards.
This boot is also great for women on-the-go!
The light pink color gives this boot a stylish look that can be worn with any outfit. Whether you’re in casual or professional attire, these boots will complete your look!
The Comfort Flex System allows the boot to flex easily in the forefoot area for added mobility.
This safety toe boot also has a steel toe protector that meets ASTM impact and compression safety standards.
The outsole of these work boots is slip, oil, and heat resistant. So don’t let the color fool you into thinking this is not a serious work boot.
PROS
- Waterproof membrane that will keep your feet dry and warm
- Upper made of pink nubuck leather that will withstand wear and tear
- An excellent, competitive price-point
- Oil and slip-resistant outsole that will keep you upright all day long.
CONS
- Pink may not be appropriate for every worksite.
- At 2.4 pounds a boot, these are heavier than the usual work boots.
5. Ariat Krista
Women’s Steel Toe Western Cowboy Work Boots With Square Toe
The Ariat Women’s Krista is a western boot with high-performance technology, produced by Ariat, a company that prides itself on generating patented technologies unique to their models of work boots.
This pair of women’s steel toe work boots are made from premium leather and mesh lining, and they feature 4LR technology that offers high performance and unmatched luxury in a western flair.
The work boots also utilise a U-Turn Entry System for easy on/off wearability. This women’s cowboy boot has an ASTM safety steel toe that provides protection from tough tugs.
Customers who purchased this pair of work boots loved the comfort from Day 1 provided by these boots, with minimal break-in time and no cramped or pinched toes.
PROS
- High shaft offers you a great degree of support when you are walking around a worksite.
- Made by Ariat- a company that prides itself on innovating the industry
- Four-Layer Rebound footbed that provides support and ventilation to reduce foot fatigue and keep your feet comfortable.
- U-turn entry system that makes the boot incredibly easy to put on and take off compared to a normal wellington-type boot.
CONS
- Nearly 2.5 pounds a boot; the heaviest boots in this roundup.
- High cowboy heels offer less flexibility than short cuts.
6. Justin Gypsy
Women’s Steel Toe Cowgirl Style
Work Boots With Round Toe
For ladies who prefer a round-toe style work boot, the Justin Gypsy is the perfect pair of boots.
These are the right boots for the right girl, they are a Western-style work boot with a touch of elegance. This women’s round-toe boot is a great choice for any outfit, from jeans to skirts and dresses.
The boots feature a brogue-perforated contrast piping, and dual pull straps with diamond cutouts, this boot taking you from day to night in comfort and style.
This work boot is currently available in women sizes 5-11, and users love how light they are; it does not even feel like it is a steel toe!
PROS
- Steel toe cap that will protect you from the drops and dangers of a modern worksite
- Lightweight at just 1.38 pounds a boot
- 100% suede leather, creating an elegant look for the lady who wants to rock the worksite in style
CONS
- Despite being a high-cut boot, some ladies have expressed disappointment that the boots do not offer the ankle support required.
7. Timberland PRO
Women’s Steel Toe Winter Work Boots
These Timberland PRO work boots are specifically designed to deliver superior comfort and durability. This women’s boot has a full-grain leather upper for long-lasting wear, while the Direct Attachment System provides a secure fit.
The waterproof membrane keeps your feet dry when you’re on the job site, and the removable EVA footbed adds cushioned comfort with every step.
The boots also have an insulated thermal barrier, over 200 grams of insulation that helps keep your feet warm in cold temperatures, and so they are ideal for female workers in the winter.
Finally, these boots are made to withstand the toughest work environments, and so you can walk around in these with confidence no matter how dangerous the worksite.
PROS
- A 24/7 comfort system that reduces foot fatigue and supports your arches every step of the way
- Thermolite, lightweight insulation that keeps your feet warm during the cold winter months but does not weigh you down too much
- Excellent reviews on Amazon, customers who bought these work boots love their great fit and steel toe/electric hazard protection.
CONS
- They may feel a bit warm in the summer months with all of that insulative material.
8. Keen Detroit
Below Ankle Women’s Steel
Toe Work Boot
If you’re looking for a low-cut pair of work boots that still provides excellent flexibility and support for female workers then look no further than the Keen Detroit work boots.
The best feature of these work boots is the contoured underfoot support which provides structured stability and comfort with enhanced flexibility for workers looking to make the most of every step.
Another amazing feature of these work boots are the asymmetrical steel toe caps which are specifically contoured to how feet actually are, unlike symmetrical ones which pinch.
Finally, these work boots, as with many others in this roundup, are waterproof, meaning you can rock them in rainy or sunshiny weather and the boots will utilize a wick to keep your feet both cool and dry.
PROS
- Excellent waterproof membrane
- 100% man-made, no chance of machine error
- Asymmetrical steel toe caps allow you to avoid having your toes pinched or made to feel uncomfortable
- Electrical hazard underfoot protection that meets or exceeds ATSM standards.
CONS
- A low-cut boot will not necessarily provide you with as much support as a Wellington or a cowboy boot.
9. Wolverine Floorhand
Waterproof Women’s Steel
Toe Work Boots
The WOLVERINE Women’s Floorhand Waterproof 6″ steel toe work boot is an amazing work boot that utilizes waterproof full-grain leather upper to keep your feet dry in wet conditions.
This work boot is by far the strongest waterproof steel toe work boot in our roundup. Customers simply love the level of protection offered by both the leather and the membranes, as well as the internal lining.
For workers operating in slippery conditions, the lug outsole is an essential feature.
Lug soles significantly increase the amount of surface area in contact with the ground, much more so than regular rubber soles or smooth leather.
This is because lugs come to a point rather than being flat at the bottom, increasing traction by up to 40%.
However, it’s important to remember that both shoes and boots have different needs–shoes need grip for inside use while boots should be slipping everywhere they go–and different construction protocols will give different results for each use.
The lightweight cement construction on these work boots helps to fight foot fatigue, essential for workers who are based on concrete or asphalt or other hard surfaces that are known to increase injuries and fatigue among workers.
We hope we’ve covered this model enough in here, but if you want to know more about Wolverine, go to Are Wolverine Work Boots Any Good page for more details!
PROS
- Lug soles are a lot easier to move along on slippery surfaces; they have been shown in studies to be a lot more slip-resistant than regular outsoles
- Anti-fatigue technology for workers on concrete
- Waterproof membrane and upper leather material
CONS
- Steel toe work boots make these work boots quite heavy.
10. Carolina Boots
Best Women’s Steel Toe
Logger Work Boots
It’s sometimes hard to find the perfect pair of logger boots for women. The need for a boot with excellent traction but that is also comfortable for women is a hard balance to strike.
We think with these waterproof Carolina Boots, we’ve found the ideal pair to suit your needs.
These waterproof Carolina boots are made with a full-grain leather upper and a rubber sole.
The steel toe cap protects you from falling objects, while the waterproof SCUBALINER keeps your feet dry. Perfect for the wet and treacherous conditions often found in forests or the great outdoors.
The Taibrelle lining helps keep your feet warm and dry, even in extreme conditions. The Carolina Boot Company has been making quality work boots for over 100 years.
These women’s waterproof steel toe work boots are great for any job site or outdoor activity.
If you are looking for a work boot that is similar to the Carolinas but at a slightly cheaper price point, we recommend the Ad Tec 9in Women’s Super Logger, which contains several of the same amazing features as the Carolina such as the cross-lacing pattern and the nine-inch pattern.
PROS
- Waterproof
- Steel toe will protect you from the dangers of an outdoor worksite
- Made by the Carolina company who have been in the business for over 100 years.
- Users love the traction and support provided by these boots, with one user well into their sixties finding them ideal for taking long walks as well as walking.
CONS
- Some users have had negative experiences with the durability of these work boots, not all though!
11. Timberland MetGuard
Women’s Steel Toe Boots With Metatarsal Guard
If you are looking for another excellent Timberland product but are not interested in the Pro, then look no further than the Timberland MetGuard.
These work boots look like they mean business; and they do!
These boots deliver the highest level of protection, comfort and durability that you can expect from any pair.
This premium waterproof work boot has an Ever-Guard leather upper with DuPont Kevlar aramid fiber for heat resistance and abrasion resistance.
The external asymmetrical ABS metatarsal guard is hinged for comfortable protection when squatting or kneeling.
This is technology nearly unique to the Timberland Metguard, and so this makes this the best women’s steel toe work boot with a metatarsal guard.
Other features include a protective thread that includes DuPont Kevlar aramid fiber on the upper and welt for durability and support.
PROS
- DuPont Kevlar aramid fiber on the welt for strong durability and support.
- The metatarsal guard will keep you on your feet even when kneeling or squatting
- Breathable and moisture-wicking lining with anti-microbial treatment for odor control- meaning your feet won’t stink after work (too bad!) with these bad boys
- High platform will help you reach the tall heights on site.
- Steel safety toe will protect you from the dangers of a modern worksite.
CONS
- Some users have found the ‘Premium abrasion-resistant Ever-Guard leather’ to not quite be as strong and durable as hoped for.
12. Harley Davidson Gabby
Women’s Harley Davidson
Steel Toe Boots
The Women’s Gabby steel toe work boot from Harley-Davidson is a classic work boot with an updated look. This woman’s work boot features a water-resistant full-grain leather upper and Goodyear welt construction for long-lasting durability.
The removable cushioned sock liner will keep your feet feeling comfortable all day and the rubber sole is slip resistant to help reduce falls on slippery surfaces.
These steel toe boots also feature reflective heel panels for increased visibility at night
What also makes these boots awesome is that they were made in the USA which means by purchasing these work boots you are supporting American jobs, American families and the American economy.
Check out this article about where work boots are made in which we’ve checked over 30 brands to find out where they manufacture their products.
These steel toe boots also feature reflective heel panels for increased visibility at night, making them ideal for night workers.
PROS
- Goodyear welt construction makes it a higher quality than other work boots.
- Reflective heel panels for improved night visibility
- Slip-resistant rubber outsole.
CONS
- Full grain leather upper makes these boots less flexible than other work boots.
13. Bates DuraShocks
Women’s Steel Toe Combat Boots
For women either serving their country or in training to do so, the Bates DuraShocks are an ideal choice.
These boots are the ultimate in comfort and protection.
Designed for women, these quality work boots feature a lightweight dual-density sole that cushions your every step while providing long-term durability.
The moisture-wicking lining keeps feet cool and dry all day long, while the breathable mesh panels on the side of each boot help to keep them ventilated. These safety toe boots also have a padded collar and tongue for extra comfort, as well as an adjustable footbed.
PROS
- EVA footbed provides excellent cushioning for all-day comfort
- Dual-density sole that cushions every step
- Moisture-wicking lining keeps feet dry and cool for long periods of time.
- Steel toe will protect you from extreme impacts.
CONS
- Laces are very complicated to fiddle around with.
14. Dunlop Purofort
Women’s Steel Toe Rain & Muck Rubber Worn Boots
Every pair of work boots in this roundup so far has been orientated around the traditional leather, and nearly all of them have involved laces.
If you are a woman on an oil rig, or a farm, then you know that ‘rigger’ work boots that easily pull on and off, and are made from PVC rather than rubber, are more suited for your working needs.
These work boots are therefore ideal for agricultural workers as well as those on oil rigs.
However, these work boots are special even for the rubber brands. They are made from a material that is 40% more flexible than rubber, meaning you get all of the comfort of leather with all the support provided by rubber.
The boots also feature energy absorption of the heel region which limits impact to the foot while walking. This will prevent you from developing pains or sprains whilst walking.
And of course, they are fuel and chemical resistant, so if you are someone who works with dangerous materials such as these you can work with confidence.
The lug outsole provides high traction on uneven surfaces for maximum safety.
These women’s work boots provide it all, without sacrificing one whit of comfort, durability or safety.
PROS
- ATSM compliant steel toe cap
- Insulates your feet up to extremely cold temperatures
- Lug outsole for extremely excellent traction.
- 100% waterproof like any good ‘wellington-type’ boots.
CONS
- Some users have had issues with the steel toe box pinching their toes.
Where can you buy women’s steel toe boots?
There are so many places you can buy your favorite work boots brands nowadays. Many ladies like to go to the store, touch the boots, see the boots, feel the boots.
Now, if you want to save a lot of time shopping around for your steel toe work boots, I recommend you simply buy them online! The shops I mention below have a great variety of safety steel toe work boots for ladies.
- Amazon
- Payless
- Sears
- Walmart
- Target
Alternatively, if it’s easier for you, just scroll to the reviews section of this article and buy the ones we recommend
What size should you get?
Some companies run their work boots up to half a size or even a full size bigger or smaller than established shoe sizes.
So for example, if you are a size six you may find some work boots in a size seven or a size five a better fit.
Some work boot merchants, such as those selling the EVER BOOTS PROTECTOR will be honest and say that their boots run half a size bigger than established brands- meaning if you are a 6.5 you only need to buy a six.
But for others, it is best to look through Amazon reviews to check if any customers have had issues with fittings.
Do steel toe work boots need breaking in?
It should be said that most steel-toed boots require more breaking in than shoes.
There’s a theory that some steel toes act as an arch support – metal is less elastic than a human foot. And so they need more time to be broken in.
The boot may need to be loosened or adjusted, and the ankle guard may need to be made taller. The key is to remember that time spent on your feet, taking care of your feet will give you back time with your loved ones.
Breaking in a steel toe work boot can take some time, depending on the type of steel and the construction.
Steel toes that are lined with leather or fabrics generally break in more quickly than those made from synthetic materials.
The break-in period for all tests yielded boots that were stiff at first but became more flexible over time
It is recommended before any bending or flexing of a new pair of steel toes be done, that they should always first be worn for at least half a day or so before you hit the worksite.
How much do women’s steel toe boots weigh?
The work boots in this roundup range anywhere from 2.4 pounds per boot (The Ariat Kirsta) to 1.38 pounds per work boot (The Justin).
Since female work boots tend to be smaller than those for men, the steel toe will proportionally form a larger proportion of the weight, since the ATSM standards remain the same.
Are steel toe boots cold in winter? (what’s a good alternative?)
The overall general consensus is that steel-toed boots are not a good option for winter, if you’re in snow country.
It’s been said to be just about the most uncomfortable thing to wear while outside and navigating through ice and snow.
And that’s because the steel toe is a temperature conductor, which means that the low temperatures on the outside of your boot can permeate to the inside, causing your toes to feel very cold and numb.
To get around this, some people will wear a thin thermal sock under their work boots as an insulation layer.
Another option is to try insulated steel toe winter boots with either heaters or warm linings–or both!
But there are trade offs here–they’re bulkier than regular shoes and so will weigh you down and tire you out on the worksite.
Last words on this review of women’s work boots
We are sure one of the work boots in this roundup will meet your specifications and allow you to boss the worksite.
The best female work boots are the ones that meet your needs and make you feel comfortable. There is a wide variety of styles to choose from, which can be overwhelming at first glance.
We’ve done some research for you to help narrow down your options by highlighting some of our top picks in different categories like slip-resistant women’s work boots or steel toe women’s footwear, as well as discussing different kinds of soles to give you maximal traction and support.
After reading this piece, we hope you agree that the Bull Run Danners are the best. But we hope this blog has helped you find the perfect pair to suit your needs.
Top Choice
The Best Ventilated Work Boot
To Wear On Warm Weather
We’ve put together a list of the top 14 most popular Steel Toe Work Boots For Women and our #1 recommendation based on what we’ve found in our research is the Danner Bull Run, a work boot that brings all the best features of style and functionality.
Team Members Working On This Page
Jessica Flynn – Writer / Researcher
Love technology, going to the beach, take 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!
Adrian Victor – Editor / Web Master
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!
Theo Cox – Researcher / Writer
I’m an MA student currently working on a research project for King’s College London Museum of Life Sciences alongside my MA dissertation. I have been published in my student newspaper, The Spectator, and the Adam Smith Institute. I’m doing part of the research and writing of the content you’ll read on BestForMyFeet.com Enjoy!
