A flat foot or Plantar Fasciitis is a condition that occurs when arches of your feet become flat. There are many reasons. Some people are born like that. Others may have some injury due to standing.
Age is also a factor sometimes. You can choose regular work boots for wide feet, but they may cause discomfort. Flat feet inside regular work shoes are occasionally painful. The pain can increase and lead to other problems.
It is better to choose boots with arch support for your flat feet. But, depending on your brand, arch support can be different. For instance, some boots come with curved insoles at the arches. Others are extra wide work boots.
Still, others have cushioned insoles and can absorb shock on rough and hard surfaces. Similarly, some boots may have all these features. So, which type of boots will be ideal for you?
Let’s dive right into our top picks to help you find the answer without wasting any time.
Honest reviews: Best Work Boots For Plantar Fasciitis
Following are some of the best work boots for flat feet:
1. Timberland PRO Pitboss 6″ Steel-Toe Boot – Best for Breathability
Timberland is the king and our top pick for the best steel toe work shoes for flat feet. These shoes come with anti-fatigue insoles. They keep your feet in one of the most comfortable positions possible. You can use them for hours without feeling any pain or strain.
These boots are built with nubuck leather, making them soft and durable. They have breathable construction, which keeps your feet cool in hot weather conditions. They have cushioned collars with lacing eyelets.
These boots have rubber soles that give protection from the ground and provide ultimate comfort for flat feet. Besides, they also keep you safe from oil, chemical, and abrasion with ANSI safety standards.
Timberland includes steel toe caps in these boots. It ensures maximum safety at work. They will give you safety from falls, impact, and compression at hazardous work sites. Therefore they are highly safe, comfortable, and long-lasting.
Overall, these shoes are very comfortable and highly flexible – ideal for professionals.
Pros
- Breathable construction with Nubuck leather lining.
- Protective outsole for slip, abrasion, and shock on harsh surfaces.
- Anti-fatigue insole design which supports flat feet.
- Collar with soft cushion and moderate-high shaft.
- Steel toe protection against compression and impact at work.
Cons
- These boots are not waterproof.
2. Wolverine Buccaneer Work Boot – The Most Versatile Boots
Wolverine is one of the most sought-after work boot manufacturers in the USA, and these boots explain why. They are versatile and both waterproof and heat resistant.
As for design, these boots have a collar with a cushion and extended gusset. The boots are built with leather, and they have a double-stitched lining. They have metal lacing hooks and extra soft ankle support for flat feet.
These boots have a waterproof lining to work on wet and damp areas on the outside. These are good for plumbers, mining rigs, hot asphalt jobs, or welding sites.
They have a highly secure outsole that stands steel on hot surfaces. The outsole is highly resistant to chemicals, oil, and slip for complete safety. The outsole ensures a firm grip on the ground if you work on a rough surface with flat feet. The robust traction rubber outsole will keep you upright.
And the inner sole will keep you comfortable. These boots help you avoid foot fatigue due to thick footbeds with cushions. Besides, the footbeds are removable.
Overall, plantar fasciitis work boots are extremely flexible and comfortable due to contour welt construction.
Pros
- Highly resistant sole to abrasion, slip, oil and chemical.
- Waterproof leather construction with dual stitch lining.
- Cushioning on collars, gusset, and insole for flat feet.
- Resistance to heat for hot surfaces.
Cons
- They don’t have steel toe protection to ensure flexibility.
3. Justin Original Double Comfort 4760 Work Boots For Wide Feet
If you are looking for wide comfortable work shoes with the most stylish and attractive design, look no further. They’re one of the most fashionable boots we have seen in a while. You will surely love the Justin original work boots.
They have good quality leather that is responsible for maintaining a good look. These boots come with a rubber outsole. It has a top-rated ASTM electrical hazard rating. Hence they are perfect for those workers who spend their time near dangerous electrical currents.
The outsole of the boots is slip-resistant. It’s perfect for workers as they walk and sometimes run on slippery surfaces.
These boots have a double comfort system insole that cushions and supports wide feet. Overall, these boots are perfect for those wide feet workers who stay on their feet for almost 12 hours.
Pros
- Good quality leather for a good look
- Rubber outsole for electrical hazard resistance
- The rubber outsole is slip-resistant as well, hence good for slippery surfaces.
- Insole cushioning for comfort
- A well reputable company
Cons
- They are less adjustable fit because they are mostly pull-on boots.
4. Carhartt CMF6371 Model
Versatility, check; durability, check; comfort, check. The Carhart CMF6371 is good for any job site. They are built tough with oil-resistant leather uppers and a composite safety toe.
Carhartt Rugged Flex work boots are an excellent choice for hard-working folk, as they need extreme comfort, durability, and safety.
These boots have waterproof breathable protection. Therefore they are entirely waterproof in most types of wet conditions. This breathable protection has a unique name, “storm defender.”
These boots have a Fast Dry Technology Lining. It absorbs sweat to keep your feet comfortable. It also provides extra cushioning for better comfort. And not just that, the EVA midsole and padded outsole offer maximum shock absorption. It helps during activities like walking or standing all day.
The exterior of the boots is made of oil-trimmed leather. It gives the boots a rugged look and makes them a durable choice for professionals who work on difficult work sites.
The Carhartt PU with Foam cushion insole provides comfortable support. It also reduces foot fatigue. This makes the Carhartt CMF6371 ideal for workers with flat feet who need extra arch support.
Pros
- Durable oil-trimmed leather exterior
- Foam cushion insole that provides you with extra support
- Lightweight composite toe that will protect you from electric shocks and drops
- Storm Defender waterproofing technology
Cons
- All worksites do not accept composite toe caps
5. Golden Fox Work Boots
As a rule of thumb, if you want a decent boot pair, stick to the big names. Occasionally, however, work boots from less-popular names like Golden Fox may surprise you because of their quality.
For the first days, expect these boots to be a little stiff. After that, the combo of oil-treated leather and mesh creates a soft, flexible feel that you have come to expect from top brands alone.
Although cushions provide comfort and shock absorption, the removable insole is a bit flimsy. They are lightweight and durable. They have a rubber outsole which makes them good for oil and chemical resistance.
The mesh lining also offers insulation. It keeps your feet warm during cold workdays. And absorbs moisture and sweat during hot workdays.
Pros
- Take the pressure off of flat feet
- A large sole absorbs pressure as you walk
Cons
- It has a lacing structure that can damage the outer surface.
- Distinct stitching is subject to tears.
6. Caterpillar Diagnostic
Another very popular work boot pair from Caterpillar is the Caterpillar Diagnostic. These boots are an affordable solution for troubled feet as they are built to perform in extreme working conditions. Be mindful of the electrical hazard, though, which comes with a steel toe version.
The upper body is made of waterproof leather, which keeps feet dry and protected. The rubber no-slip outsoles are also of excellent quality, known as SRX.
These work boots have a removable perforated EVA insert with Gel Technology. The arch support is excellent, and steel shanks provide better sturdiness.
Overall, these boots are ideal for workers who work in extremely cold countries or for those who work outside a lot in the winter months.
Pros
- 200 g of insulation which provides comfort against the cold.
- Steel toe, which protects against compression.
- Waterproof leather upper, which keeps feet dry in extreme conditions.
Cons
- Weight per boot is 2 pounds.
Buying Guide
People with wide and flat feet know the struggle to find good work boot that fits them. To avoid this struggle, most workers buy boots that don’t fit them properly. Others will choose a boot pair that is not designed for workers, as it lacks any protective features.
Following are some things you should look for before buying a pair for your flat wide feet:
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Arch Support
The most important thing to consider for flat feet is midsole construction. This part of the boots is responsible for keeping your arches comfortable.
The best midsole materials are Memory foam, dual Density EVA sole, and cushioned soft sole. These materials support low to no arches and flat feet.
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Durability
Designs and building materials of boots determine how durable these boots are. Work boots are normally expensive. Therefore, you should make sure they are durable and long-lasting.
Boots with pure leather as the primary building material is a good choice. Also, Mesh and synthetic lining can make boots solid and last longer.
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Safety and Resistance
Always consider safety and resistance before buying work boots. Choose safety material according to your work type. It can be steel, composite, rugged leather, etc.
You can choose steel for fall hazards. You need resistance from slippery floors, hot surfaces, bumpy terrain, and steep hill tracks. Always choose boots with material that supports resistance.
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Comfort in Wearing
Boots should feel very comfortable when you put them on. If you have issues with moisture or have smelly feet, always look for a breathable mesh lining. It will make your boots comfortable and less smelly.
Weight balance and shaft design also play a good role in making boots comfortable. Check the weight if it fits your body strength without straining your feet. It’s necessary if you walk a lot alongside the shaft.
It is major support for your feet. Go for a shaft that gives you good fitting with comfortable collar cushioning.
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Soft Cushioning
Good cushioning is a must feature we need in the work boots for flat feet. Feet with no arches are usually stiff and rigid. There is no suspension effect to absorb shocks when they hit the ground. Thus, the impact creates vibrations that run up the feet and entire body. As a result, your feet, legs, or lower back start aching quickly.
Good cushioning can absorb shocks and keep your feet comfortable. Always make sure the footbeds and sole have good cushioning.
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Wider Toe Box
Due to a lack of arch support, flat feet widen when they hit the ground. The entire foot collapses on itself and expands in width.
For such wide flat feet, always prefer wide toe box work boots or boots with a wide make. A narrow tip will squeeze the feet tightly, causing pain and discomfort.
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Medium Heel
Flat boots or high heels are not suitable for people with flat feet. A medium heel will support and is good for your flat feet.
One inch or half an inch heel is suitable for your flat feet. Lower than this will lack support, and any higher than this will cause discomfort.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
What is the purpose of work boots?
Workers wear work boots to protect themselves from slips, trips, burns, and electric shocks. You can find a pair according to your job role and safety requirements.
Can you wear regular work boots if you have flat feet?
Yes, you can. But regular work boots can be very uncomfortable. Standard boots sometimes make it impossible for you to work effectively in your job.
Where can you buy work boots for flat feet?
You can find them in normal shoe stores. Ask the shopkeeper, and he will guide you.
There are many online stores. You can order a pair online. Some of them are
- Amazon
- Zappos
- Payless
- Walmart
What size should workers with flat feet get?
Workers with flat feet require a wider size because they don’t have natural arch support.
Is there anything common in all work boots?
Yes, there are many things common in almost all work boots.
- They have removable insoles. It means you can change them according to conditions.
- All these boots have hard or semi-hard outer soles.
- All these work boots have safety features for comfort and durability.
