Plantar fasciitis is a common problem among people who work in industrial settings and factory workers because they have to stand or walk for many hours every day. Many jobs require workers to spend long hours on their feet, which can strain the plantar fascia and cause an injury to occur.
When you’re on the job, safety is paramount. For many jobs, this involves wearing steel toe boots. These boots are designed to protect your feet from falling objects and other hazards. However, if you have plantar fasciitis, steel toe work boots can cause more problems than they solve.
The best composite toe work boots for plantar fasciitis on the other hand offer a great solution for workers who suffer from plantar fasciitis. They give you the protection you need without compounding your pain.
When dealing with plantar fasciitis, it’s important to find the best composite toe work boots that will provide relief while still offering protection against falling objects or heavy equipment. Choosing the right footwear will allow you to continue working without fear of further damage or pain that could lead to time off from work.
This composite toe work boots guide for plantar fasciitis will give you some valuable information on the different types of boots, with an extensive review of top brands that are known to provide the best results.
We have also covered a buying guide to help you understand all the necessary factors when considering a composite toe work boot for plantar fasciitis and why it can be a better choice as opposed to steel toe work boots
However, if you are in a hurry here are our top picks and suggestions:
Our pick: WOLVERINE Men’s Overpass 6″ Composite Toe Work Boots
Best overall: KEEN Utility Men’s Dover 6″ Composite Toe Work Boots
Best budget: Rockrooster Woodland Men’s Composite Toe Work Boots
So, without further ado, let’s dive right in!
Composite Toe VS Steel Toe
Steel toe work boots are known to be the most popular work boots in the market. They have been in the market for a long time and have been used by many workers in different fields of occupation.
However, with the advancement of technology and increasing awareness among people, composite toe boots are slowly taking over the market. Composite toe work boots are made from materials such as Kevlar, plastic, and carbon fiber instead of metal. This makes them lighter, more comfortable, and non-conductive.
While both types of footwear will do the trick when it comes to providing foot protection, composite toe work boots have a few advantages over steel toe work boots in some cases and that is exactly why steel toe boots are much more common than composite toe work boots but they’re actually not better when it comes to dealing with plantar fasciitis.
There are various features of the best composite toe work boots for plantar fasciitis that make them a better option than steel toe work boots. The following are some of them:
Weight
A large number of people hesitate from using steel toe work boots due to their weight and also because they conduct electricity. The weight difference between steel toe and composite toe is about 30%. This may not seem like much but it does make a huge difference for workers who have to use these shoes for 8-10 hours at a stretch.
Comfort & Support
Steel toe caps can prove to be very uncomfortable for people suffering from plantar fasciitis as they do not provide adequate support to the arches and heels of their feet. The best composite toe work boots for plantar fasciitis, on the other hand, are designed to provide better support to your arches and heels. They also tend to be more flexible than steel toes as they do not contain any metal or alloy which tends to make them stiffer.
Nonconductive
The composite material used in their construction is lightweight and won’t conduct electricity like metal or steel. This makes them ideal for workers who are often around live wires or electrical currents. They’re also non-magnetic and non-conductive, which is good for those who work with MRI machines or other electrical equipment or people who have to go through security scanners. The materials used to make composite toe work boots also provide more protection from cold and heat than steel, which conducts heat and cold.
Budget friendly
Composite toe boots are less expensive because they don’t require a sheath, but they do come with a lower weight rating. That means you’re less likely to feel them in your foot when working on machinery or machinery tools than you would with a steel-toe boot.
Durable
Composite toes are more durable than steel ones as they do not rust or corrode easily even under damp conditions.
Also read: 10 Best Tactical Boots For Plantar Fasciitis
10 Best Composite Toe Work Boots For Plantar Fasciitis
1. Carhartt Men’s 6″ Composite Toe work Boots
Work can be rough and for the roughest of days, you need a boot as tough as you are. Carhartt Men’s 6″ Composite Toe Boot is one such beast. A composite toe keeps your toes safe and sound, while the electrical hazard protection ensures there won’t be any sparks flying.
Stay dry and comfortable with the FastDry™ Technology Lining absorbing moisture away from your foot and keeping it at bay. Oil, chemical, and abrasion-resistant, this boot will stand up to every inch of punishment you put it through. It also features a Goodyear welt construction designed to provide extended durability.
The lightweight shock-absorbing EVA midsole provides cushioning underfoot, and the rubber sole has excellent slip resistance. The toe area is bigger than most safety boots and therefore it is perfect for people with wide feet as well as those who are suffering from plantar fasciitis. It can be hard to find the best composite toe work boots for plantar fasciitis that are both comfortable and stylish, but your search ends here!
Pros
- Rugged & Durable.
- Superior comfort.
- FastDry lining wicks.
- Oil, chemical, water and slip resistant.
- Excellent cushioning.
- Abrasion resistant.
Cons
- Water resistant but not waterproof.
- Some may find them stiff.
2. Timberland PRO Men’s 6″ Boondock Comp Toe Industrial composite toe work boots
When it comes to setting the standard for hard-wearing, reliable work boots, Timberland Boondock Comp Toe Work Boot takes it to the next level. These waterproof insulated work boots have a contoured shock diffusion plate and forefoot flex grooves for ultimate comfort and flexibility, while the anti-fatigue technology provides all-day support.
It has a removable polyurethane insole, which provides maximum protection on the toughest worksites both indoors and out. Ample insulation helps keep feet warm in cold weather, making this boot a great choice for those who work outdoors or in refrigerated environments.
The Timberland Boondock Comp Toe Work Boot is designed to be a solid choice for outdoor jobs where you need to stay warm, dry, and well-protected while working.
A unique Comfort Suspension System includes polyurethane pads that absorb shock and return energy to the foot. With an energy bed footbed, sturdy construction, and composite toe technology, this boot is built to help get the job done.
All in all, Timberland Pro Boondock composite toe work boots are an excellent option to invest in when dealing with plantar fasciitis.
Pros
- Slip/Oil/Abrasion resistant.
- Supreme traction.
- Premium waterproof leather and membrane.
- Sublime shock absorption.
- All day comfort.
- Lightweight.
- Roomy toe box.
Cons
- Not for narrow feet.
- Durability issues.
3. WOLVERINE Men’s Overpass 6″ Composite Toe Work Boots
The Wolverine Overpass composite toe work boot is a great option for workers looking for a comfortable, durable boot to support their job. An ASTM-rated composite toe gives you safe protection while the flexible Contour Welt construction will keep you moving comfortably on your feet all day long, and the removable Ortholite cushioned footbed will provide additional comfort for those with plantar fasciitis.
With its high-quality leather, durable outsole, and shock absorption features, this boot is built to last, and with its composite toe and EH-rated protection, you can count on this protective boot to keep you safe at work.
They’re crafted using premium waterproof leather and abrasion-resistant toe, so they’ll stand up to whatever the day (or night) brings, while a lightweight rubber lug outsole offers both oil and slip resistance. Whether you’re doing some light landscaping or just heading to the office, this boot has you covered.
Pros
- Slip/Oil/Water/Abrasion & Chemical resistant.
- Removable Ortholite cushioned footbed provides all day comfort.
- Premium waterproof leather.
- Lightweight.
- Superior shock absorption.
- Wide toe box.
Cons
- Not CSA approved.
- Not for hot areas.
4. Carhartt Men’s 10″ Insulated composite toe work boots
If you’re working on your feet all day, in any number of conditions, the right work boot is crucial. Mechanical hazards, wet conditions, slippery surfaces, and cold weather: make sure you’re ready to face them all with the Carhartt Composite Toe Boot.
Made with top-quality leather and a durable TPU heel guard, this boot guarantees protection while offering comfort and flexibility. Its Storm Defender waterproof breathable technology is designed to keep you dry from the outside in, while Thinsulate Ultra Insulation keeps you warm from the inside out.
And of course, it features a composite safety toe for maximum protection against impact and compression on the job site while the electrical hazard rating provides secondary protection (under dry conditions) against incidental contact with electrical circuits of 18,000 volts or less.
Whether you’re at work or out in the wilds of your adventures, make sure your feet are safe and comfortable with the Carhartt Composite Toe Boot. Simply put, the Carhartt Men’s Waterproof Composite Toe Work Boots help you work hard in comfort, provide enough cushioning to deal with plantar fasciitis, and help you stand on your feet once again!
Pros
- Excellent for cold/snowy areas.
- Multilayer shock absorption.
- Exceptional durability.
- Good arch support.
- Waterproof.
- Rubber lug outsoles provide sublime traction.
- Oil & slip resistance.
Cons
- Not recommended for hot/warm areas.
- Some buyers say they are not waterproof as claimed.
5. KEEN Utility Men’s Dover 6″ Composite Toe Work Boots
Say goodbye to foot pain with the KEEN Utility Dover 6” Composite Toe Waterproof Work Boot. Not only are these boots lightweight and supportive, but they also have the added benefit of a composite toe, so you don’t have to worry about sore feet while getting that work done.
The upper features waterproof leather and KEEN.DRY waterproof breathable membrane, which makes them perfect for wet work environments. An oil- and slip-resistant, non-marking rubber outsole means that you’ll be safe and secure on all job site surfaces.
Inside, there is a KEEN Luftcell dual density PU midsole that is infused with air for extra comfort, and a removable metatomical PU footbed made of memory foam that molds to the shape of your foot. For added support, the TPU shank offers stability while climbing ladders.
Pros
- Genuine waterproof leather.
- Luftcell dual density PU midsoles make them extra comfortable and light.
- Heel-capture system keeps the foot locked and provides exceptional stability.
- Oil and slip resistant.
- Comfortable and cozy.
- No break-in period is required.
- Lightweight & breathable.
Cons
- Delicate material requires extra care
- Can be rigid for some.
6. Timberland PRO Ridgework composite toe work boots
If you’re tired of the pain and discomfort caused by plantar fasciitis, then you need these Ridgework Composite Toe Waterproof Insulated Boots from Timberland PRO. The upper is crafted with Ever-Guard leather that is durable and abrasion-resistant, while the proprietary PRO footbed features Anti-Fatigue Technology, with conical geometry in the midsole to absorb shock and return energy.
The composite safety toe delivers lightweight protection and the waterproof leather keeps your feet dry in cold weather conditions. Everything about these boots is designed to give you superior comfort on the job so that you can work long hours without suffering foot pain.
What else? You’ll also find a cement construction for excellent durability and flexibility along with breathable mesh linings with treatment for odor control while the stable stride stability platform provides exceptional torsional rigidity and lateral support; a lightweight composite shank for added structural support.
Pros
- Waterproof leather & membrane.
- Slip, Oil, Corrosion, Abrasion & Heat resistant.
- Composite safety toe with CarbonShield™ technology.
- Padded collar and tongue for extra comfort.
- Excellent durability and flexibility thanks to its cement construction.
- Breathable membrane and mesh lining.
Cons
- Not recommended for the hot climate.
- Some buyers found them stiff/hard.
7. Bates Men’s Ultra-Lites 8″ Tactical Sport composite toe work boots
Looking for a boot to power you through the workday? The Bates Ultra-Lites 8″ Tactical Sport Side Zip boot blends super lightweight construction with athletic styling and performance.
The nylon and leather uppers are tough enough to withstand an on-the-job beating and flexible enough to move with your feet, even with the non-metallic composite safety toe caps.
This rugged boot is built to perform in the toughest conditions, with a durable outsole that can handle any terrain, and our unique slipping resistant design to help keep you steady on your feet. These men’s work boots also feature side zippers for easy on and off and removable insoles with added cushioning that fights fatigue build-up.
This style features an ASTM F2413-11 rated composite safety toe that is lighter weight than a traditional steel toe, offers more room in the toe box, but still protects against impact and compression. The padded collar keeps out debris while the rubber outsole features slip-resistant technology.
Pros
- Side zipper for quick on/off.
- Bates DRYGuard membrane delivers full waterproof technology.
- Sublime all day comfort.
- Lightweight & breathable.
- Oil/slip resistant.
- Good traction.
Cons
- Minimal arch support.
- Not waterproof.
8. Ariat Intrepid VentTEK Composite Toe Work Boots
Who wants to spend a 40-hour workweek wrestling with discomfort? You won’t have to in these Intrepid VentTEK composite toe work boots from Ariat. They feature a synthetic air mesh lining that offers moisture management and breathability while the oil and slip-resistant Duratread outsole provide enough traction and grip to walk confidently on all surfaces.
These work boots have VenTEK cooling mesh panels on the shaft to enable airflow and keep your feet comfortable. The robust oil and slip-resistant Duratread™ outsole provide enough traction and grip to walk confidently on all surfaces, while the EVA midsole offers shock-absorption.
These mid-calf work boots feature the SpiderTEK™ Pro technology that dissipates pressure and provides rebound for active support and flexibility all day long to keep your feet comfortable and ensure optimum performance. The boots also feature a roomier toe box and provide unbeatable cushioning and flexibility for long hours of work making them one of the best composite toe work boots for plantar fasciitis.
Pros
- Unbeatable cushioning and flexibility.
- Roomy toe box.
- VenTEK cooling mesh panels make them super breathable.
- Oil/slip resistant.
- Top-notch shock absorption.
- SpiderTEK Pro technology provides excellent support.
- Ultimate comfort and durability.
Cons
- Not waterproof.
- Fitting issues.
9. Rockrooster Woodland Men’s Composite Toe Work Boots
Work boots have to be tough and these meet the challenge. Rockrooster Woodland Men’s Composite Toe Waterproof Work Boots are made with full-grain leather so they can take a beating on any kind of outdoor terrain.
Yet they are light enough to keep your feet feeling fresh. The waterproof lining keeps any moisture out so your feet can stay dry, while the Poron insole delivers cushioning to help relieve foot fatigue.
With unique oiled crazy horse leather, this work boot has superior durability. The large toe box will not be pressing on your feet, reducing the pressure from your toes and helping relieve the pain from plantar fasciitis and bunions
They are also designed to resist blood-borne viruses or bacteria, making them great for when you’re on your feet all day in wet conditions. And if you suffer from plantar fasciitis, this boot has an anti-fatigue technology that will help alleviate the sharp pains caused by this condition by reducing pressure on your arches while still keeping your feet supported.
Pros
- Rugged & durable full grain leather.
- Excellent arch support.
- Sublime comfort for all day wear.
- Anti-Fatigue Technology.
- 30 days worry-free money back warranty.
- Waterproof.
- Slip/Oil resistant.
Cons
- Can be huge/heavy.
- Issues with laces.
10. WOLVERINE Men’s I-90 Composite-Toe Slip-on Construction Boots
Whether your job requires you to be on your feet all day or you just need an extremely comfortable pair of boots that offer support, then these Wolverine I-90 Waterproof Composite-Toe Slip-on Boots are for you.
These WOLVERINE boots feature a removable, full-cushion footbed that ensures comfort from your first step. A waterproof membrane keeps water out while still allowing your feet to breathe so they don’t feel stuffy. Also, a breathable mesh lining moves perspiration away from the skin for dry and healthy feet.
These men’s boots keep you safe and protected with their composite toe ASTM F2413-11 M I/75 C/75 EH protection, which is lightweight yet effective against impacts and falling objects. Plus, a high abrasion TPU lug outsole makes sure these slip-resistant boots can endure rough surfaces while keeping your footing secure on wet surfaces.
For added comfort and a helpful solution for those who may suffer from plantar fasciitis or lower-leg pain, the EPX technology in these I-90 Work Boots brings stability closer to the foot to fight fatigue without losing flexibility or adding weight. Get ready to work hard in these WOLVERINE!
Pros
- Easy to slip on/off.
- Ultra comfort for all day.
- Snug fit.
- Waterproof.
- Lightweight & breathable.
- Oil & slip-resistant.
- Stylish design.
Cons
- Not recommended for high arches.
- Not for wide feet.
Buying Guide
There are many types of best composite toe work boots for plantar fasciitis that you can find on the market. Some of them are made for general work, while other work boots are made for specialized jobs. If you need to buy composite toe work boots for your job, then there are a few factors that you should take into consideration before purchasing a pair of work boots.
Comfort and support
When it comes to treating plantar fasciitis, comfort is the key. Since you are suffering from plantar fasciitis, it’s important that you choose a pair of the best composite toe work boots for plantar fasciitis that will provide you with the utmost comfort and support.
Wearing shoes with less support can cause strain on your heels, which may make your condition even worse. If you are at work for most of your day, wearing protective & comfortable footwear with extra padding can help ease your symptoms.
A comfortable pair of composite toe work boots will also protect your feet from abrasions and blisters. This is especially true when you are working in an environment where there are many objects lying around that can injure your feet.
Moreover, comfort is a prerequisite for any shoe that will be worn regularly and for long periods of time. Your feet will hurt with any other type of boot, even if it offers good arch support and all the other features you might be looking for in work boots.
Arch Support
If your feet hurt, it’s not a good day. And if you’re wearing work boots that don’t have proper arch support, you’ll be in for a lot of bad days.
Arch support is important regardless of whether you suffer from plantar fasciitis or not. But if you do have this condition, then it is even more important that your footwear provides adequate arch support.
Arch support is one of the most essential factors when it comes to shopping for the best composite toe work boots for plantar fasciitis. This is because plantar fasciitis affects your feet’s arch, which causes pain and discomfort. Arch support ensures that the arch of your feet is well-supported, which in turn alleviates the pressure on your feet’s tendons and ligaments.
The arch of the foot plays a very important role in supporting the foot and preventing pain and inflammation from forming. Good arch support should be able to evenly distribute the pressure applied on your feet. Additionally, it should be able to cushion your feet from any shock experienced from walking or running on hard surfaces.
Cushioning
Cushioning refers to a layer of material in a shoe that absorbs shock and provides comfort when you walk or run. If you have plantar fasciitis, it is also important to find a composite toe work boot with a good cushion.
This will help to protect your foot while you are working on various tasks throughout the day. If you do not have great support around your foot and ankle or if you do not have a good sole in place, this can spell disaster for your feet and cause more problems than solutions.
Also, proper cushioning will lessen the impact your feet take as you walk, which reduces stress on the plantar fascia. In fact, walking and standing for long periods puts pressure on the heels and balls of the feet. In such a case, cushioning in your shoes can help relieve pain and may improve your mobility.
Shock Absorption
A good shock-absorbent work boot is a must-have as it will reduce your fatigue by absorbing the pressure from your feet. It will also ensure that you do not suffer any injury even if you fall or slip.
Shock absorption is among the most important features that you need to consider when shopping for the best composite toe work boots for plantar fasciitis.
Shock absorption is a feature that helps to lessen the impact of your feet as they hit the ground. This feature can be especially useful if you work on hard surfaces or stand for long periods of time throughout the day.
Material
Is the material that the composite toe work boot is made from important? Yes, it is. It will play a big part in whether or not you will be comfortable wearing the composite toe work boot. You want to choose the best material possible.
You can find the best composite toe work boots for plantar fasciitis in different materials, including leather, canvas, suede, and rubber among others. The type of material used in the work boot will determine its durability and waterproofing capabilities. Each material has its own unique characteristics that can affect how comfortable you feel in your new boots.
Leather is typically used for casual boots because it does not provide as much support as rubber or synthetic materials. Although leather may be less expensive than other materials, it does not offer as much protection as rubber or synthetic materials.
Rubber and synthetic materials provide a more comfortable fit because they do not restrict movement as much as leather. These types of materials are usually more durable and can last longer than leather. However, they may not offer as much protection as leather. When shopping for work boots, make sure that you take into consideration the type of material that will fit your feet best.
Traction
If you work in an environment where there is slippery terrain or wet conditions, then it is important to make sure your boots have good traction. Look for composite toe work boots that have slip-resistant outsoles and heels. It will keep your feet stable and prevent you from slipping or tripping over on rough terrain and slippery floors.
Traction is also important for workers who need to climb ladders or scaffolding because the wrong footwear could lead to a fall. It is even more important when you have plantar fasciitis as you might slip and fall without proper grip. It also helps with your balance and stability, which is crucial for people with foot disorders such as plantar fasciitis.
Waterproofing
This is one of the most important features to look for in a pair of best composite toe work boots for plantar fasciitis. Most working conditions require waterproofing because when you get wet your feet will tend to swell which can make it harder to stand for long hours and can also cause fatigue and pain on your feet.
The reason why waterproofing is so important is that it protects your feet from rain, mud, and other water sources. It ensures that your feet stay dry and clean at all times. Wet feet can lead to blisters, and your wet socks may not dry out fast enough to prevent foot rot.
This also extends the life of your work boots significantly as water can damage the leather and make it hard and brittle. The waterproofing feature can also protect your feet from frostbite during cold weather conditions.
Lightweight and breathable
Weight is one of the most important factors to consider because heavy boots can cause many problems, especially for people with plantar fasciitis. If you need to walk or stand for long periods of time, your feet will become sore from carrying too much weight on them.
This can further exacerbate the problem you already have with plantar fasciitis and it can also lead to other foot problems in the future. That’s why you should always go for light boots if possible, even though this means purchasing more expensive ones.
Another common problem that workers face with their footwear is that they tend to get sweaty and smelly. This can make your job difficult as well as uncomfortable. In order to avoid such problems, you can opt for a pair of breathable work boots that let your feet breathe and stay cool even after working for long hours. You should also choose footwear that has good ventilation so that it prevents your feet from sweating too much.
Durability
If your work requires you to wear composite toe work boots, then you should probably invest in a good pair that will last for a long time. You can save money by buying affordable pairs of composite toe work boots, but a cheap pair won’t last long and will be uncomfortable.
You need to buy a composite toe work boot that is durable enough to withstand harsh environments and heavy use. This means durability should be one of your top priorities when looking for the best composite toe work boots for plantar fasciitis.
Summary
A composite toe work boot can be an excellent choice if you are looking to provide added protection and comfort to yourself whilst you’re working. Composite toe boots are not a magic wand that will solve your health problems, there is no such thing.
However, if you are suffering from plantar fasciitis, you should consider purchasing a pair of best composite toe work boots for plantar fasciitis because they offer much more support than regular work boots. Selecting the best composite toe work boots for plantar fasciitis is no easy feat, especially given that there are quite a lot of them on the market and new brands and models popping up all the time.
Luckily, our reviews above should make it easier to pick one that works well for you. Our pick would be WOLVERINE Men’s Overpass 6″ Composite Toe Work Boots while KEEN Utility Men’s Dover 6″ Composite Toe Work Boots is best overall and Rockrooster Woodland Men’s Composite Toe Work Boots is our recommendation for best budget