Best UK Rigger Boots Reviews 2021

If you are looking for Best Rigger Boots to protect your feet, then you landed at the right article. After spending hours of time on research, we have listed the good pairs of safety rigger boots for manual workers that meet your differing needs for comfortable, value, functionality, and fashionable look.

What are Rigger boots?

A rigger boot is a specific form of pull-on safety boot, in the United Kingdom. The term “Rigger” has an interesting history; back in the day, uniform boots were provided for workers on offshore rigs in the North Sea; today, most manual workers wear rigger safety boots as a general safety boot in the workplace, and their popularity is growing due to their functional pull-on system and other convenience factors.

Riggers, as they’re known, are normally tan in colour and extend about a third of the way up the leg, with a steel toe cap for added protection. Pull-on loops along the top of the boot’s shaft and an internal fur lining are also distinguishing features.

Because of the advantages of pull-on boots over lace-up boots, they rapidly gained popularity among employees outside of the oil and gas industry, such as construction and manufacturing workers. There are some of them:

1. They provide greater convenience. You can actually slip your foot into and out of the boot.
2. Water resistance is improved by fewer stitches and no lace holes.
3. Provide better foot ventilation and reduce the risk of boot odours.
4. There are no lace-related trip and fall hazards.

Rigger boots are available in a variety of styles and sizes. While most models are simple to put on and provide complete protection against work hazards, there are a few things to keep in mind before selecting the right rigger boots for your needs.

We’ll go through a lot of the lesser-known facts about riggers in this post. We’ll also go into the top five models on the market in terms of their features. That way, you’ll know exactly what to look for in a good pair of rigger boots and how to get the most bang for your buck.

Top 5 Best Rigger Boots Review

1. Dr Martens – Men’s Icon 2295: Best Lightweight Rigger Boots

These Dr Martens boots are some of the best rigger boots. They’re also non-slip, stylish, and chocolate brown. They do, however, only weigh about 880 grams. These Dr Martens are the best lightweight rigger boots on the market thanks to their low weight and other user-friendly features.

Their leather uppers, for example, aren’t fully waterproof, but they’re water-resistant and flexible for all-day wear. Furthermore, the air-cushioned soles of the Men’s Icon 2295 rigger boots make them extremely comfortable for long shifts. These soles help you maintain an anatomically correct posture during the day by reducing impacts and contouring your feet. Their insoles are anti-bacterial, reducing odours and sweat on the feet.

Dr Martens boots, like DeWALT boots, have anti-slip Goodyear welted rubber soles that are easy to replace. Oil, fat, petrol, and alkali are all resistant to these outsoles. As a result, people who work in manufacturing factories, the maritime industry, or gas stations should consider these pants.

Unfortunately, there is no strengthened toe cap or midsole on the Dr Martens Men’s Icon, 2295 Rigger Boots. Also, some customers have reported that their soles have come apart after just a few months of use.

The majority of rigger boot reports from the last decade confirm that these boots don’t last longer than a year. However, since most consumers complain about the lack of sole longevity, resoling your Goodyear shoes is a simple solution.

2. V12 Tomahawk Riggers: Best Waterproof Rigger Boots

Since their leather uppers are water-resistant and their Thinsulate linings are waterproof, these V12 Tomahawk are some of the best waterproof rigger boots for cold weather. Furthermore, since Thinsulate is one of the warmest materials available, these boots can keep your feet warm for longer.

However, despite being moisture-wicking, Thinsulate isn’t a great material because it’s not really breathable. As a result, if you wear the V12 Tomahawk boots in the summer, your feet can sweat inside. V12 states that their Thinsulate lining can withstand temperatures as low as -20°C. But, because we’re in the United Kingdom, the temperature shouldn’t be a problem. Otherwise, due to their prominent sole lugs, these boots are warm and slip-resistant in medium-cold weather.

Thinsulate has the drawback of not being the most cushiony or contouring material. If you have chronic foot pain or bunions, a gel or foam insert might be necessary. The V12 Tomahawks, on the other hand, are tough, secure boots with triple-stitched seams and reinforced pull-on hooks.

The padded heel and ankle supports not only help to keep your feet stable on rough terrain, but they also make long shifts more comfortable. The V12 Tomahawk boots are recommended because of their heat-resistant Powerflex soles, which are uncommon among rigger work boots.

However, wearing them has the advantage of allowing you to walk for longer periods of time. Steel toe caps and anti-nail plates are also included in the V12 Tomahawks for optimum safety in hazardous environments. And, unlike most steel-toe boots, which are cramped and heavy right out of the case, these rigger boots are comfortable right away.

3. Grafters Men’s S3 Leather Rigger Boots: Best Rigger Boots UK

These Grafters Men’s S3 SRC WR safety boots are among the most reasonably priced rigger boots available. Furthermore, they are both relaxed and defensive. Steel toe caps and midsoles protect your feet from crushes, impacts, and punctures.

The leather uppers are both durable and water-resistant, and the Jontex waterproof lining adds to the boots’ water-repellent properties. Furthermore, this combination improves the boots’ insulation capabilities, allowing your feet to remain warm all day.  If you’re working around water, however, you’ll also need a pair of wellies. These rigger boots, on the other hand, are perfect for walking your dog through dewy grass or crossing a stream or two.

At around 1.67 kg, the Grafters Men’s S3 SRC WR safety boots aren’t the heaviest on the market. As a result, they will not pull the feet down excessively during long shifts.  Since these boots are comfortable, supportive, and versatile, you can wear them all day.

Cushioned ankles and dual-density PU outsoles, for example, keep the feet snug within the boots. Furthermore, dual-density PU is a versatile, light material with excellent impact absorption for long shifts. Bonus: these Grafters Men’s S3 SRC WR boots are oil and fuel resistant, with minimal slip resistance thanks to PU.

We like the breathability of the textile covering, but don’t expect it to be really contouring, cushiony, or anti-bacterial. Consider the following options if you have pre-existing foot pain or other medical problems.

4. Jallatte Jalpole S3: Best Quality Rigger Boots

The Jallatte Jalpole S3 WR SRC riggers are some of the most relaxed boots you’ll find. Their AP23 leather uppers are oil and water resistant, and the Gore-Tex lining ensures that they are fully waterproof. The boots aren’t fully waterproof, so keep that in mind. They can, however, provide good water resistance if you use a waterproof spray. Furthermore, Gore-Tex is a soft and insulating material.

As a result, the S3 WR SRC boots will keep your feet warm. The following is a common issue with most rigger boots: Since rigger boots are pull-on, their inner soles get damaged or loose easily. However, Jallatte Jalpole solved this problem by combining a Scholl Gel foot bed with a steel midsole. Both materials are tough, particularly the steel midsole, which is puncture resistant.

Scholl Gel, on the other hand, is long-lasting and provides extra cushioning to relieve pressure points on the soles. As a result, you will wear these S3 WR SRC rigger boots for several hours without experiencing any discomfort.

 Another benefit is the composite toe cap. Composite toe caps are EH-rated, but they are not as impact and crush resistant as steel toe caps. They’re much lighter and more spacious, allowing for all-day convenience.

The Soften dual-density PU sole, on the other hand, is a source of regret. Since PU is a good shock absorber, shoes with PU soles minimise walking fatigue during long shifts. That’s why most customers say the S3 WR SRC boots make them feel like they’re walking barefoot on a fluffy carpet.

That’s why they can work 12-hour shifts with no discomfort. However, PU is not a slip-resistant material. Most rigger boots aren’t slip-resistant when operating on icy or oily surfaces.

5. DeWALT Men’s DWF-50071-121-9: Rigger Boots With Ankle Support

The DeWALT Men’s Rigger Safety Boots are not only one of the best on the market, but they’re also fashionable thanks to their full-grain leather uppers that look chocolatey in colour. However, when it comes to defence, steel toe caps and steel midsoles are needed.

If you work in a hazardous environment, such as building or industrial space, these reinforcements protect your feet from crushes, punctures, and impacts.

On the downside, these materials make the DeWALT boots very heavy and cramped at 2.48 kg. The DeWALT Men’s Rigger Safety Boots are also water-resistant and slip-resistant thanks to their full-grain leather construction.

We already mentioned that rigger boots aren’t always slip-resistant, but DeWALT is an exception that proves the law. That’s because the Goodyear welted-rubber outsoles on these boots provide excellent traction on most surfaces, including ice –after all, Goodyear still makes winter tyres.

However, there is another benefit to this design. After a few months, the soles of most rigger boots begin to squeak. So, although they’re usually fine, you may want to stop wearing them for fear of embarrassment.

Goodyear welted shoes, on the other hand, are more sturdy and simple to resole. The cushioned comfort insoles, flexible leather uppers, and ample padding make these DeWALT Men’s Safety boots ideal for long shifts. Walking fatigue is reduced by their cushioning and outstanding protection (TPU heel support and padded ankle support). As a result, they can be worn for long hours.

Are Rigger boots banned?

Rigger boots are a type of slip-on safety boot that was created for oil rig workers so that if they fall into the water, the boots would be easy to remove due to the vacuum effect. However, several building firms have forbidden them because it has been discovered that wearing them increases the risk of twisting an ankle.

The construction industry has been a leader in opposing the use of Rigger Boots on construction sites, but there is no known government law prohibiting their use. What we do know is that certain companies and employers have made it illegal for their employees to use them.

In fairness to them, ankle support is a vital part of what the right Work boot can provide. Uneven ground exacerbates the problem, and lace-up boots are thought to be safer. Finally, you would have no choice but to comply if these are the site’s rules.

How to stop Rigger boots from rubbing?

Some areas of your rigger boot can rub against your feet, causing blisters, as is the case with most new boots. Rigger boots and other pull-on boots are typically loose around your knee, allowing your leg to shift around within the boots.

This will cause your feet and leg areas to rub against the rough leather of your boots on a regular basis. If you find yourself in this situation, consider putting on a pair of long, thick socks that stretch past the tops of your boots.

Since blisters are caused by friction from your feet/leg rubbing against your shoe, you may minimise friction by applying lubricant to the hurting region. Vaseline is a safer option in most cases.

If you’ve just bought a new pair of boots with a return policy, we suggest putting them on in the evening while your feet are at their widest. It is common knowledge that the feet swell slightly during the day.

Trying on a new pair at this time will give you the best idea of how you’ll feel in your boots as the day draws to a close. Remember that your work boots would need to be broken in over time.

It’s a slow process, and you’ll need to allow your boots time to mould to your feet’s form. Lubrication and a thicker pair of long socks will solve your rubbing Rigger Boots right away.

How to choose Rigger Boots for you? – Buyer’s guide

Choose the right size:

 When it comes to rigger boots, this is perhaps the most significant factor.  After all, why would you buy a pair of shoes if they don’t fit properly?  Even if it appears to be in good condition or is inexpensive, if the size is incorrect, it should not be purchased. 

It is important to choose the correct shoe size. It is important that shoes have a solid heel space that properly houses the heel and does not slip when walking. It’s best to wear shoes with heels that aren’t higher than 2.5 centimetres.

If you’re buying something online, make sure the vendor has a good return and exchange policy so you can get it delivered back to them if the size isn’t right. It’s also worth noting that different brands can come in a variety of sizes. If the shoe size is incorrect, it can make you less productive at work and contribute to injuries and discomfort.

Choose the right material:

When it comes to safety boots, leather is still a popular option. Leather is chosen not only for its aesthetic value, but also because it allows for greater mobility and can endure the test of time. Rubber, on the other hand, is a common material when electric shock is a concern.

Plastic boots are also common, but they may not provide sufficient protection. When money is a factor, plastic is often selected. New technologies have been implemented in recent years to provide synthetic materials that provide a higher degree of safety, but they can be more costly.

Select the perfect toe type:

Steel Toe: Steel toe shoes have a steel toe cap incorporated into the work boot that protects the wearer’s toes and feet. The steel cap provides impact and compression resistance.

Composite Toe: Composite toe shoes are similar in appearance to steel toe shoes. Non-metallic and non-magnetic materials make up the composite toe cover. As compared to steel toe shoes, it is much lighter. Composite toe shoes are appropriate for workers at airports, nuclear power plants, and security installations.

Alloy Foot: Alloy toe shoes are lighter than steel toe shoes but also have adequate protection against accidents. Light shoes do not cause exhaustion and are ideal for workers in factories, building sites, and other environments.

Non-metallic Toe: Electrically non-conductive, non-metallic toes are lightweight and easy to wear. Non-metallic toe shoes are preferred by workers in the electrical industry and power plants.

Consider it’s lacing style and sole type:

 The type of lacing used in safety footwear may have an impact on how well it fits. To provide quick lacing, safety  footwear manufacturers typically use regular eyelets, D-rung eyelets, or a combination of both. When selecting a lacing design for safety footwear, consider the essence of the job, safety criteria, and the wearer’s preferences.

If you know the heat exposure levels at work, you can narrow down the right heat resistant glove. The method of selecting a chemical resistant glove is influenced by the design of the job, the period of chemical exposure, the chemical’s danger level, and the chemical’s temperature.

For example, a normal disposable glove may be used to wipe away acetone, but if the job requires dipping the hand into an acetone solution, a disposable glove is strictly prohibited.

PVC Soles: PVC soled safety shoes are recognised for their longevity and tolerance to temperatures as high as 70°C. Even in hot industrial environments, they provide protection.

PU Soles: PU Soles are light, water-resistant, and abrasion-resistant.

TPU Soles: Thermoplastic urethane (TPU) soles on safety shoes are lightweight, light, and long-lasting.

Consider it’s safety features:

When looking for work Rigger boots, don’t overlook the numerous safety features available. Steel cap boots are common due to the added protection they offer. Steel toe shoes have an inbuilt steel toe cap inside the  boot that protects the wearer’s toes and feet.

The steel cap provides impact and compression resistance. You should also look for the shoes’ ability to reduce any hazards that might exist in the workplace. It’s important that they’re made from materials that can withstand electrical shock.

It should also protect your feet from contamination, especially from chemicals you can come into contact with. It would also be important to have an anti-slip sole in the workplace to reduce the risk of slipping. Water resistance is also critical because it will keep your feet dry and comfortable at all times.

Do your research:

Before making a final decision about which one to purchase, it is important to conduct comprehensive study, which should include reading consumer feedback on the internet.

You may also seek personal recommendations from people you meet. Their advice will assist you in making a decision that you will not regret. You can also do some study into the government’s specifications.

If you’re a construction company, the study would include looking at many vendors, comparing their prices, and attempting to negotiate a better offer because you’ll most likely be buying in bulk.

Conclusion

This article looked at a variety of high-quality rigger boots from well-known brands, all of which received rave reviews. Others are best for tough jobs on building sites, while others are best for endless dog walks and light garden chores.

You will also see how the features of different boots work together to minimise walking fatigue. Therefore, you should always make your choice based on your work environment, pre-existing foot conditions, and personal style. Choose a good pair of riggrer boots with ankle support.

This post includes a thorough overview to aid your decision-making, ranging from general knowledge on Rigger Boots to a one-by-one review of top-performing and best rigger boots in UK. This article should hopefully assist you in determining what you need, but remember not to jeopardise your comfort and protection.