We spend a lot of time thinking/hyper-analysing every piece of equipment: Brands and types of squeegees/scrubbers; Buckets/BOABs; ((soap/solution :rolleyes:)); Ladders… The list goes on.
But what about footwear?
A few weeks ago I decided to try Columbia Traverse Hiking shoes. The reviews were pretty high and the price was reasonable. Since I currently average over 20 miles per day walking, I need a shoe that leaves me ready to go another 20 miles. I know a LOT of people who prefer Nike Air sneakers. So far though, the Columbia’s are holding up nicely and quite comfortably.
So tell me, what is your preferred brand of footwear and why?
LOL!!! Just remembered that I do wear mine when powerwashing - Pair of genuine fire fighter boots I bought at a yard sale for $5 - And you’re right, they do look like ‘Hooker boots’.
I’ve had all kinds of outdoor shoes (I do a lot of backpacking too), and these have been the best by far - Salewa Alp Trainer GTX Hiking Shoe- Men’s from Backcountry.com. Waterproof, durable, and sticky soles. I hate boots that restrict my ankles and I hate running shoes that wear quickly and kill your feet when you spend all day on ladder rungs.
I was going with Timberland for years. I recently got my first pair of Carolina work boots. They’re way heavier and I like them so far. They’re also waterproof.
This subject overwhelms me because it’s too expensive for me to experiment! Too bad there’s not a hands down winner.
I prefer High Top Basketball Shoes in Black. I live in a good weather area so boots are usually not required. I can’t find those Ecover boots anywhere but I did like the Scrimshoes they have at sears.
i have some Meindl hiking boots right now and they are great but i would like to find some slip on boots with kevlar shank and toe. slip on/off to quickly take them off to go in costumers house. kevlar shank for round sectional ladder rungs because those will make your feet hurt pretty bad after a while… sneakers wont work on round rungs so id rather have a good boot, but i havent found the perfect pair so far…
Last Christmas I Told my niece and nephew I wanted a pair of light high top shoes. They bought me a Black pair of Niki’s. I have never worn a black pair of sneakers, just don’t like the color. Well I decided instead of letting them sit in my closet all summer, I’d use them for work. I didn’t have sore feet one day. Amazing what the difference is with a light pair of shoes. Still wearing them in this colder weather and dreading when the snow comes and it’s time for the heavy boot.
Since we are on the subject can anyone recommend a very light high top sneaker?
Kidding aside, I bought a pair of sears Diehard boots. They are very comfortable, have a flat sole and stick real well on roofs and ladder rungs, they are water resistant and comfortable enough for even hot days (although I may get a flat soles pair of skater or basketball type shoes for summer next year. I like the Diehards though.
After a fall 3 years ago (resulting in surgery & 6 months off) , boots past the ankle are required. We suggested them prior to the guys accident. The doctor said higher & heavier boots would have prevented most, if not all injury. I should add, though, that a majority of our work is on commercial property where our customers require boots. My brand is Rocky, but Carolina is also very good. Get crepe soles for the occasional steep metal roof. Ironworkers use them.
I like to wear Magnums. Police wear them. They have great support for people who spend long days on their feet but they’re light enough to chase down a criminal who’s wearing sneakers and catch them. Work boots are too heavy and sneaker do not have enough support. Magnums are just right.
They’re trail running shoes, so they’re holding up nicely to the daily grind. They’re lightweight, flexible, breathable, and look dang sharp, IMO! The color matches our new uniforms perfectly And they’re comfortable to work in all day long.
If you’re more of a running shoe person as apposed to a boot person, I definitely recommend getting trail runners for our line of work.
And they’re comfortable to work in all day long.
