Are you a railroad worker who spends most of the time walking or working on those stony roads? Then you must need protective foot gears to save your feet from frequent fatal injuries.
That said, you don’t want to end up having blisters or bruises on your feet, right? That’s why we handpicked the five best boots for railroad ballast that keep you away from any cramps or electrocution. Also, these shoes are comfortable enough to let you stand on your feet all day long.
Usually, railroad boots should be tall enough, at least 6″, to provide enough coverage to the feet. Also, they should have reliable rubber outsoles to maintain balance over the rocks and pebbles.
On that note, the following products are the best choice which includes all these qualities. Let’s explore more!
5 Best Boots for Railroad Workers
On a stony road if you work for a long time or walk for a good deal of time, rest assured, these boots let you protect with food gears and other features to save your feet. Let’s get started.
Timberland Pro Men’s Endurance 6″ Railroad Work Boot
- 100% waterproof premium leather
- Dependable rubber sole
- Arch to ankle-high shaft measurement
- Polyurethane footbed for shock absorption
- Excellent stability for all fay work
The very first one on this list comes with an exclusive puncture-resistant ability which is a big plus for any railroad boots. Let’s dig deeper into what more it has to offer.
If you need incredible craftsmanship along with out-of-the-box durability from a work boot, Timberland outplays others with its Pro Endurance series.
What we liked the most is the anti-fatigue technology that assures ultimate comfort in the long working hours. Not only it offers excellent shock absorbing amenity but also it sends the energy back to the key zone of your feet. Therefore, you get incredible stamina throughout the day.
Also, there is a puncture-proof plate that provides basic underfoot protection from the ballast railways. And the amazing odor control capability is truly outstanding.
Another good thing about these irresistible work boots is the extreme protection from electrical hazards. This is a must-have feature for any boots for railroad workers as these things are pretty common on railway constructions.
Being made of premium leather, these waterproof boots are super supportive to fight against oil or abrasion. And the 6″ height is comfortable enough with an adequate break-in period.
Despite the positives, some customers complained that the shoes should have been more durable compared to the price point. Apart from this minor issue, this is a decent deal though!
Timberland Pro Men’s Helix 6″ Waterproof Safety Toe Railroad Boot
- Premium leather with a waterproof membrane
- The breathable lining makes the boots quick dry
- Slip-resistant Vibram outsole
- Lightweight EVA midsole for super comfy movement
- Dynamic anti-fatigue technology for day-long comfort
Secondly, let’s discover the prime specifications of another waterproof work boot for railway workers. This too is from the same brand, Timberland.
Those who work all day long on the rough railroads must wear shoes with adequate support. Timberland Pro Helix series make some incredible working boots in this regard.
If you need maximum support with a durable pair of shoes, the Vibram outsole will take care of your requirements. Moreover, the alloy safety toe is meant to protect your feet regardless of the situation.
These shoes are considered one of the best boots for railroad conductors, thanks to their slip-free outsole. And the breathable lining makes them more comfortable letting the sweat and water dry.
However, the anti-fatigue technology is a great inclusion that helps maximize your energy. And the EVA midsole is super supportive with lightweight construction.
Furthermore, these shoes run true to size. So, it’s easier to purchase them. Besides, you can customize the fitting based on your feet’ shape, thanks to the heel locking system.
Nevertheless, it would be best if the shoes were a bit more comfortable like the Timberland Pro Men’s 6″ Work Boot.
Carhartt Men’s 10″ Waterproof Composite Toe Railroad Boot
- 10″ shaft measurement
- Excellent impact protection due to the composite safety toe
- The breathable membrane allows adequate airflow
- 1000 LiteFire insulation keeps your feet warm
- TPU heel guard takes care of ankle stability
The third spot is occupied by an extraordinary work boot for men from the world-famous brand, Carhartt.
Carhartt is well-known for manufacturing high-performance working boots against rail path ballast and their 10″ waterproof boots are no exception.
Need a pair to fight against the coldest weather? Look no further, the 1000 LiteFire technology is an exclusive feature with sufficient insulating power to keep your feet warm.
For comfortable work shoes, cushioning is very important. These shoes outperform any boots for railway workers with their incredible cushioned insoles. And the kneaded rubber toe has some extra abrasion-resistant quality.
Talking about its breathability, it has a completely waterproof membrane which is storm resistant too. Furthermore, it promotes sufficient air circulation to keep the feet odor-free.
The next good thing about these boots is the safety toe that meets the EH safety standard. It keeps you protected in case of any incidental electrocution.
However, we cannot but praise the TPU heel guard that features better grip and balance. Also, it protects your ankle from side impact much better than any other railroad boots.
Most importantly, the rubber lug outsole ensures maximum traction needed in extreme conditions like a railway that is full of rocks, ballasts, and pebbles.
Nevertheless, a slightly disappointing factor is the poor craftsmanship which provides less arch support than expected. Other than that, it’s a great buy.
Thorogood Men’s GEN-flex2 6″ Composite Safety Toe Railroad Work Boot
- Premium craftsmanship with 100% leather
- Removable polyurethane footed for better foot support
- Comfortable EVA cushion insole
- Dependable GEN-flex2 outsole
- Added toe protection because of the composite safety toe caps
Next on the lineup, we have an irresistible pair of boots for railway ballast that belong to the famous brand, Thorogood. The prime features are explained below.
If you are looking for a pair of work shoes that come with lightweight construction, these are your go-to boots. Not only do they keep the feet protected from bruises and blisters but also sudden electrical hazards. The electric shock-resistant soles can withstand 18000 volts which is great for any railway working boots.
Apart from that, these boots are slip, oil, heat, and abrasion-resistant. Thorogood’s special GEN-flex2 dual-density outsole is engineered to perform better in your daily work life.
Moreover, the composite safety toe caps are non-metallic, resultantly, weigh less than steel but provide the same protection. Being corrosion-free, they keep the feet free of injuries.
Also, the non-metallic hardware on the outsole doesn’t allow activating any security screening device. They don’t even leave any mark on the working surfaces.
Furthermore, the multi-dimensional traction lug EVA outsole is the key to its comfortable performance during long working hours. And the multi-layered cushioning makes the footwear even more flexible.
However, the only disappointing fact is that these boots aren’t waterproof. So, if you need water-resistant boots for working on railroads, go for the Carhartt Men’s 10″ Waterproof Composite Toe Boot instead.
Timberland Pro Men’s Boondock 6″ Safety Toe Railroad Work Boot
- Super supportive synthetic sole
- Shock absorbing anti-fatigue technology
- Steel-toe boots that combine comfort with style
- Premium leather material for waterproof construction
- Ever-guard leather and rubber toe protectors for resisting friction
On the final spot, we came with a versatile pair of railway boots from Timberland that comes waterproof. Let’s explore its core amenities below.
Being architectured with approximately 6.5″ shaft measurements, these work boots are one of the best boots for walking on railroad ballast.
As for safety toe boots, they feature TPU outsoles with deep lugs for better balance and traction. That’s why you will be safe from slip, oil, and abrasion.
A notable thing about this pair is that there’s enough room inside. The opening is around 10.5″ in measurement, can you imagine?
Like any other Timberland boots, these also feature the famous anti-fatigue technology that keeps the feet comfortable all day long.
Although these have been designed as working boots, you can wear them at home as well. The steel toes are soft enough for an ache-free-wearing session.
Another good thing about this pair is the water protection ability. In fact, the 100% premium-grade leather membrane is completely waterproof to fight any wet condition.
If you look for a comfortable pair of boots for working on rail paths, that too with ultimate durability and protection, pick this pair right away.
Apart from the positives, these shoes give a little room for complaints as they squeak a bit while working. And they run a half size big. So, you can go for Timberland Pro Men’s Helix 6″ Waterproof Safety Toe Boot which comes true to size.
How to Protect Your Foot from Track Ballast?
If you are someone who works on railroads, you must be familiar with track ballast. A railroad construction is full of sharp and uneven stones which may severely hurt your feet.
It’s impossible to always avoid these edgy stones if you need to work there regularly. So, how can you protect yourself from track ballast?
As track ballast is basically formed of crushed granites, you must rely on protective footwear to protect your feet from getting injured. Whether you fall or slip on the trackbed, a good pair of work boots can save you in this situation. The shoes must have a good grip on the outsole. Also, they must have electrical hazard protection.
Whether you work in wet or dry weather, the track ballast is going to equally affect your feet if you don’t take the necessary precautions. Of course, you can wear jeans, leggings, or gaiters. But nothing can beat a reliable pair of work boots in this regard that comes with composite safety toe caps.
What Should You Look for in a Railroad Worker’s Boot?
Out of so many alternatives, selecting the right pair of boots for railroad workers is definitely a tough task. To make the job easier, we handpicked some specific qualities. You can use these as quick checklists to select an appropriate pair of working boots.
Let’s explore them in detail below!
Comfort
The first feature you should look for in working boots on railways is comfort. Slight discomfort can lead to you not concentrating on your work properly. If the shoes don’t come with proper cushioning, adequate arch support, roomy interior, and reliable outsole, you cannot wear them all day long.
Fitting
As comfort greatly depends on snug-fitting, a pair of good boots must fit accurately. Neither should it be too light nor too narrow. In fact, if they fit right, they will mostly be convenient. For a custom fit, we recommend choosing the lace-up system.
Durability
Check the material very carefully. Only premium quality materials make premium shoes that last longer. As work boots cost a fortune, you cannot buy a new pair frequently. So, they should last at least one year without any wear and tear. So, go for shoes that are sturdy enough to withstand any tough condition.
Safety Toe
Although it depends on you whether you’ll go for a steel or composite safety toe, we would like to inform you that steel toes are heavier. They can literally keep your feet down. They provide better coverage though!
On the other hand, being made of plastic, carbon fiber, or kevlar, composite safety toes are lighter enough for comfortable movement. Moreover, they work in both cold and hot conditions. And most importantly, you get adequate foot and leg protection as well.
Electrical Hazard Rating
While working on railroads, chances are you will encounter electrical currents. So, you need working boots that can protect you from this kind of abrupt electrocution.
We highly recommend shoes that maintain the EH ratings according to ASTM F2412-11 or CSA 2011 standards.
How Can Railroad Ballast Affect You?
Railroad ballast may seem unnecessary at the first glance. But they carry the weight of the railway ties, drain the rainwater, and control the overgrown vegetation.
But they can badly affect your feet if you walk on the ballast barefoot. Usually, granite, quartzite, limestone, etc. make ballast which is pretty sharp by nature. So, they can cause cracks, bruises, and blisters to your feet. Even you can be severely injured by those edgy stones.
Without proper foot support, railway workers can develop ankle, hip, arch, or knee injuries eventually.
Walking on the railroad ballast for at least eight hours a day is definitely tough. It’s even tougher to come in contact with those uneven gravels and granites that hurt your feet badly.
In fact, if you don’t wear boots that are tall enough to cover your feet, the rocks will frequently get into your shoes. Also, without a comfortable pair of shoes, you can’t sustain those rocky terrains for too long.
FAQs
Usually, shoes or boots that come protect your feet from fatal injuries against any extreme condition are known as protective footwear. They usually come with safety toes, EH ratings, arch support, durability, etc.
According to the OSHA standard for safety shoes, the shoes must be oil resistant with non-skid soles and leather uppers. They must follow the ASTM 2413-05 rules and must have a rating of 75 both for impact resistance and compression resistance. It also says that you must wear the shoes even without the presence of any hazard.
The work boot safety standards directly state that these boots must be manufactured of leather uppers with an impact resistance rating of 75. Also, they must be constructed with inbuilt toe caps to keep the feet protected.
Yes, in most cases it’s mandatory to wear closed-toe shoes. If you don’t wear closed-toe ones, you should wear socks underneath.
Final Words
To wrap up, we must say that track ballast can take a toll on your feet without protective foot gears. So, you must wear the best boots for railroad workers if you encounter the path regularly.
Therefore, you must invest your hard-earned money in a good pair of shoes that come with sufficient safety features like composite toes, water-resistant, comprehension rings, non-steel shank, etc.
After reviewing the five products above, we recommend the Timberland Pro Boondock 6″ Safety Toe Railroad Work Boot as the most budget-friendly pick. And if you prefer comfort the most, go for Timberland Pro Men’s Helix 6″ Waterproof Work Boot which is the best overall as well.
However, always look for all the protective features thoroughly before making a buying decision. All the best!
