Finding the right pair of utility shoes can definitely present quite the challenge. After all, they can't just be something to put on your feet. They have to be tough enough to protect them under a wide range of conditions. They need to be durable enough to stand up to years of heavy wear and use. Of course, it would be nice if they were stylish and distinguished to some extent as well.
Although finding a shoe that meets all those standards may seem like a tall order, it's anything but, thanks to today's selection of utility shoes. The following are some of the styles that are currently rocking our world. Which ones will you be adding to your own wardrobe?
Work Boots
When you're in the market for a work boot, you need something that's tough as can be. It needs to be able to keep out moisture and stand up to lots of heavy use. It needs to be able to protect your feet from electrical hazards and chemical exposure. It has to be able to safeguard your feet from potentially dangerous impact, prevent slipping, and be supportive enough to work in all day as well.
Try an option like the Pit Boss from Timberland on for size. It's capable of protecting your feet in all of the ways detailed above, and then some. It's also built to last and is more than capable of handling anything the tasks of the day might throw at you. What's more, they look fantastic, so you won't have to choose between form and function, here.
Utility Clogs
Clogs are more than just comfy, fashionable footwear options for lounging around in on your day off. The right pair can be an absolute godsend when it comes to many activities and professions. For instance, features like heavy-duty non-slip soles make them ideal for kitchen work. Shock absorbent padding makes working, standing, or walking all day on concrete or hardwood floors much more comfortable. Plus, they're super easy to take on and off at will.
Try an option like the Oswald from Skechers. Not only are they affordable, but they're built for wear in a wide variety of different environments. Wear them as work shoes to take the agony out of doing your job. Slip them on around the house for a shoe that's just right for cooking, gardening, or house cleaning. You'll never want to take them off.
Duck Boots
Not all of us are lucky enough to live somewhere that sees mild weather all year round. Some of us need to be able to protect our feet from truly harsh weather conditions like bitter cold, torrential rain, or even the occasional blizzard. However, not every boot is up to the task. When it comes to serious winter weather, we need no-nonsense boots that can handle just about anything the elements might bring our way.
That said, duck boots are so much more than just a fashion trend that's hot, hot, hot right now. They're one of the best things you could possibly put on your feet when harsh winter weather hits. Try a style like the Ankeny from Sorel. Sorel pretty much wrote the book on reliable utility shoes, and their duck boots are no exception. Enjoy tough features you can count on, like vulcanized rubber shells, ultra-tough full grain leather uppers, and truly supportive footbed technology.
Boat Shoes
If you love to sail, you don't need to be told how important it is to have a few pairs of reliable boat shoes in your closet. Boat shoes feature the type of skid-proof sole technology that will keep you steady even on a slick deck that's rocking to and fro. Good boat shoes also have plenty of support and padding, the better to keep you comfortable during even the longest day out on the ocean.
Try an option that's equal parts form and function, like the Castaway from Dockers. It features the tough slip-proof soles and smooth leather finish you'd expect in a good quality boat shoe. However, it also looks fantastic, so don't be surprised if it also becomes your new favorite footwear to pair with everything from jeans, to shorts, to cargo pants.
As you can see, utility shoes don't have to stop at usefulness when it comes to their value. They can be attractive and affordable as well. Add a few to your collection today!
