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Last updated: 6 February 2025
What are the best waterproof shoes for working as a trade?
Having the best waterproof shoes could make all the difference when it comes to your working day. Whatever your trade, you certainly don’t want soggy feet at a job. Read on as we look at some of the best options out there.
Getting the right waterproof shoes for work is so important as a tradesperson.
Having dry feet is key if you work outside, such as gardening, laying fences, building or roofing. No one wants cold and wet feet, so why not think about updating your scuffed old work shoes with something newer and more practical?
Unless you plan to go scuba diving, however, there’s no such thing as fully waterproof.
Most work shoes and trainers are certified as water resistant, offering great protection from the elements, without being fully waterproof.
So while you may not be able to keep all the water out, you’ll still want to have dry and comfy feet. Preferably for the whole of the working day.
What waterproof shoes are best for tradespeople?
Arguably, if you want the best shoes, it comes down to a personal choice. Now, we don’t know what you like, but when it comes to feet, most people look for the following:
Comfort and best fit
Style
Protection (toes and sole)
Cost
Grip
Durability
Practicality
On top of those considerations, you should probably also have a think about whether they keep the damp out or not.
The best waterproof shoes are much like the best work boots, or your favourite pair of shoes outside of work. When you’re on your feet all day, you want them to be as comfy as possible.
As they count as workwear, you may also be able to claim them as a business expense. That sounds like a win!
But what are the best options on the market at the moment?
What are the best construction shoes?
Working in a varied industry like construction means your workwear needs to be flexible for the different conditions. When you're trying to finish a job, you’re likely to find yourself working in all weather.
So arguably, the traditional work boot is still the king of footwear for people working in construction.
Many construction sites also require you to wear boots, although regulations are now flexible to incorporate other footwear with protective elements.
We think these options are pretty good when it comes to shoes for construction:
The best waterproof shoes for working on a construction site are ones that can withstand anything, last for years, and most importantly, protect your feet.
Have a look around at different specifications and features. There is a broad range out there, giving even the pickiest of tradespeople a variety of footwear options.
What are the best roofing shoes?
Being a roofer requires a good level of protection. But that shouldn't be at the expense of comfort or weight. Clambering around on a roof in all weather conditions means you’ll want shoes that will keep your feet safe. In every way!
The best roofing shoes means you’ll want something lightweight but practical. It is why many roofers are now switching to shoes and trainers, rather than the classic work boot.
Also, crucially for roofers, you don’t want to fall or slip. So having slip resistant soles is worth looking out for as well.
Here are some of the roofing shoes we’re loving at the moment:
Blackrock Carson Safety Trainer
Caterpillar Charge S3 Safety Trainer
Of course, it depends on your work circumstances. Some employers prefer you to wear work boots instead of other protective footwear like trainers.
But given the option, wouldn’t you prefer a lighter option that is also as comfy and waterproof too?
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What are the best waterproof steel toe work shoes?
The best waterproof shoes are ones that do the job and do it well. If you find your feet aren’t suited to boots, then having protective shoes is your best bet.
As a tradesperson, it’s important to keep your toes safe, in case of falling objects. Even a tool like a hammer can really hurt if you drop it on your foot!
However, you'll probably also want a shoe for all weathers. That makes waterproof steel toe work shoes a natural fit for most tradespeople.
Here are some of our favourites that come with metal toe caps:
Result Work-Guard All Black SRA SB Safety Trainers
We say metal, as the Apache Vault’s toe protection is actually reinforced aluminium instead of steel. So, when’s a steel toe cap not a steel toe cap? When they use other protective materials.
With so much choice out there, it’s hardly surprising that there is a big choice of waterproof shoes for work, regardless of requirements.
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How to save money on the best waterproof shoes
Everyone always loves a bargain. Especially when it comes to something you’ll use every day!
If we’ve inspired you to find the best waterproof shoes for working, then by becoming a Checkatrade member, you could be in luck even further.
When you join Checkatrade and pass our checks, you’ll get access to a wide selection of member benefits, including:
Offers and savings from places like Clothes2order, Selco, Quickbooks and TradePoint
Fantastic savings on key cover, like public liability insurance
Reduced breakdown assistance cover with RAC
Plus, extra job leads coming your way regularly!
We'll guarantee your work (naturally T&Cs apply)
Along with more work coming your way and the trusted tick, our checked and vetted members can end up making great savings on business essentials. Every year!
An expert guide to waterproof workwear for tradespeople
There are few things more miserable than being soaked through to the skin with hours still left on the clock. The good news is, there's a range of quality waterproof workwear out there to keep you dry and comfortable while working outside with the elements. Waterproof workwear jackets When looking
Key takeaways
It is so important to wear the right clothing when working. That includes looking after your feet as well.
The best waterproof shoes are the ones that fit you the best and provide the best level of protection. Both from water and splashes, but also from falling objects. Its why waterproof steel toe work shoes are such a great option.
Using shoes rather than boots is a choice more and more popular among tradespeople. Do it well, and your feet will thank you.
Plus, with a Checkatrade membership, you could enjoy money off too. Great savings and great footwear in one go. What more could you want?
Enjoy a range of benefits and find more work
Win more job opportunities as a Checkatrade member
