Lineman workers need boots that are lightweight but sturdy at the same time. That is a tough combination to find, don’t you agree? Well, our team’s job is to help you. Here we have some lineman climbing boots reviews for you to check out.
What is more, finding the right climbing boots will help you do your job and protect you from accidents. Get the best lineman climbing boots after reading our article and learning the most important things about them. After you’re done reading our reviews and guide, you will have the knowledge to make an informed decision and get the ideal shoes for your work.
Best Lineman Climbing Boots Comparison Chart
PRODUCT | DETAILS | ||
---|---|---|---|
La Sportiva Men’s Karakorum Hiking Shoes |
| View On Amazon | |
Kenetrek Lineman Boots |
| View On Amazon | |
ARIAT Men’s Linesman Work Boot |
| View On Amazon | |
Georgia Boot Men’s Loggers G7313 Work Boot |
| View On Amazon | |
Carolina Linesman Composite -Cork Harness |
| View On Amazon |
Best Lineman Climbing Boots (Newest Models)
Just a quick FYI, these reviews are not in any particular order. So, let’s begin now.
1. La Sportiva Men’s Karakorum Hiking Shoes
Here we have a pair of sturdy hiking boots from La Sportiva. They have a ¾-inch nylon shank. Even though they do not have special insulation, they keep your feet pretty warm. These boots also have additional lace clamps and ankle eyelets.
Furthermore, wearing these boots in wet conditions doesn’t affect them at all. You can use these shoes in a variety of terrains, including rocky steeps or glaciers. These offer great load and ankle support.
If you need reliable, comfortable boots at a fair price, these are the ones for you and will last you for years. You need to calculate your size correctly, and your feet will be living the dream when you’re on a hike. What you should keep in mind is that your feet may sweat more if you don’t wear proper socks with these boots.
Pros
- The 3D Flex allows for faster break-in.
- Solid construction and the hardware is top end.
- These boots have sticky soles to help grip boulder scrambles.
- Their polyurethane SBR Aircushion is perfect for absorbing shock and adds more comfort for long hikes.
Cons
- These aren’t the best fit for people with wide feet.
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2. Kenetrek Lineman Boots
These Kenetrek boots are made from leather and have rubber soles. Also, they have almost an inch thick and premium full-grain uppers. The boots are taller than most on our list, at 10 inches. They may not be insulated but are double reinforced. The tongue has abrasion resistance. With a 0.276 inches nylon midsole for additional support, these boots also have triple stitching for maximum durability and strength.
With good shoes, you will have excellent arch support, and your legs and back even are thankful for the help. You will undoubtedly find doing everyday lineman things more comfortable and less tiring with these boots. Furthermore, you can have peace of mind that you’re getting a good value for your money for the price they come at and their quality.
Pros
- These have reinforced steel safety toe with a rubber cap for additional protection.
- There are narrow and wide options to choose from based on your foot type.
Cons
- We couldn’t find any crucial disadvantages.
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3. ARIAT Men’s Linesman Work Boot
These full-grain leather linesman boots from ARIAT are suitable for any weather. The sole is 10 inches tall. It is almost mid-calf, which may not be ideal for some people. However, that is what makes them great to use in low temperatures and on rainy days because they keep your feet dry and warm.
On the other hand, that also makes them a bit stiffer than other products. Also, we noticed that these units are a bit heavier than others. It feels almost as if they will slip from your feet if you don’t tighten them well.
What is more, this model also has a breathable Premium GORE-TEX membrane, which is also waterproof. If you decide to get these boots, you will also benefit from their mesh lining and leather collar. But the tongue isn’t the most fashionable as it crumples a little bit when you overtighten the laces.
Pros
- This pair of boots has rebound foam insole.
- For extra stability, this model has oil and slip resisting outsole.
- They also have a heavy-duty tempered steel shank.
- There is special insulation 400g Thinsulate. It keeps you warm without them being too bulky.
Cons
- It may take more time to break them in.
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4. Georgia Boot Men’s Loggers G7313 Work Boot
These Georgia men’s logger boots are a stylish addition to collecting any forest and outdoor-loving man. Made of 100% leather, they are waterproof, and the high lace-up closure will protect you in heavier snow on the trail. They are 8 inches in height and weigh 6.1 lbs. These boots are ideal for working in the woods or on a farm, as they will provide firmness and stability to your soles and ankles. The steel toe and abrasion-resistant rubber outsole will protect you from a falling log or any other obstacles in your path.
Initially, this pair may feel a little rough on the inside and cause blisters from regular use with many loggers’ boots. We recommend you put on thick comfortable woolen socks. Hence, you may want to opt for a slightly bigger size than you are used to wearing. In hotter weather, your feet may also sweat considerably. The boots come with a 1-year warranty.
Pros
- Waterproof
- Long durability
- Steel-toe protection
- 100% leather
Cons
- Stiff and could cause blisters with thinner socks
- Not suitable for warmer weather – will cause sweating
- Take time to break-in.
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5. Carolina Linesman Composite -Cork Harness
These Caroline boots are suitable for everyday usage but not heavy wear. Their construction is solid, and they have a one-piece rubber outsole. You can safely use them near open currents or near water because they are water-resistant as well.
If you need boots that will keep your feet snug and dry, you should consider investing in these. They are comfortable and have excellent ankle support. You can wear them every day for hiking or work. However, we recommend that you do not go to work with these before you break them in. You must do it slowly. Wear them a couple of hours a day until they loosen. After that, you won’t have a problem with them. We also recommend that you oil the uppers from time to time, so they don’t crack.
So, if you seek affordable and versatile boots for light to medium usage, these can do the job.
Pros
- You can choose the width of the boot.
- These have SCUBALINER waterproof.
- Their composite safety toe cap protects you from falling heavy objects.
- EH rated boots.
Cons
- The same manufacturer no longer produces these. These new boots are not the same as the older ones.
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What Are Lineman Climbing Boots?
These are a particular type of footwear for people in specific positions. A lineman works in different environments and do a range of tasks. They are constantly near cables and electricity. Their job also requires climbing on high poles and performing complicated tasks.
The boots have to be designed with climbing comfort in mind. Not all work boots are suitable for climbing. Lineman boots must be stable, durable, but also lightweight and maneuverable. They need to stand being abused on rough surfaces and used in all weather conditions. Plus, most importantly, the shoes must be slip-resistant and have an EH rating. Furthermore, the lacing should be protected from getting caught on protruding items. Overall, the different parts of lineman boots help in a certain way.
Things You Should Look For in Lineman Work Boots Before You Buy
Many factors and features make a pair of shoe ideal for you. However, you should also bear in mind what the nature of your work is. How much wear and tear the boots will get, and if there are any special requirements from your employer that you should meet. Once you know these things, here are the key features to look for in lineman boots:
- Electrical protection: Because of the nature of lineman’s job, this is the most essential feature. Lineman usually works around high voltage lines, and they need the right protection. If you’re new and haven’t given it much thought, you should know that shoes are crucial protection in this field of work.
The best defenses against electrical shock are rubber shoes. They act as insulators and block the signal. As you see from our reviews, all shoes have a thick rubber sole for this purpose mainly. Also, you should avoid boots that have exposed metal. Lineman boots may contain some metal here and there, but not much, and it shouldn’t be exposed. Many work boots have steel toe for added protection, but for the lineman, composite toe shoes may be better.
- Waterproof boots: As a lineman, most of your work is outdoors, and you cannot pick and choose what weather to work. Having waterproof boots keeps your feet dry so you won’t get a cold. Furthermore, such boots are also useful in protecting you from electrical shock since water is a conductor of electricity. So, having shoes that protect you from the water helps you in many ways. Read our post on waterproof work boots, to know what the critical factors are.
- Heels: This part of the shoes can be the difference between standing on the pole and falling. A higher heel may be uncomfortable when you’re on the ground, but when you’re on a tall pole, it helps more than you can imagine. It aids the anti-slip treads on the boots. Also, the higher the heels are, the better arches for your feet there are.
- Outsole protection: For your safety, choosing the best outsole is crucial. More importantly, the threads on the bottom of the soles are essential. Look for anti-slip soles and boots with a more pronounced grip. Sole thickness is also a factor. The thicker the sole, the stable you will feel, but they may be more slippery. But the thinner it is, your feet will get tired faster, and you may feel uncomfortable. On the other hand, with thin soles, you will feel more flexible.
- Traction and treading: Both are important when climbing high poles and walking on all kinds of terrains and conditions. These two features are connected to the type of outsole. You need to find a pair of boots that can keep you stable regardless of the kind of terrain you’re working. Finding a pair of good shoes doesn’t have to be a hassle, see our home page for more guides on various types of work boots.
- Comfort is essential: To feel comfortable and safe with your boots, they need to be breathable, so your feet don’t sweat and become slippery. Furthermore, good cushioning is crucial to comfort. It protects your feet from hard and uneven surfaces but also keeps them from external low temperatures. However, every person has a specific idea of comfort, so it is up to you and your feet what type of boots are right for you. For good and comfortable insoles, check the post we have on work boots insoles.
- Warranty: Some manufacturers offer a specific type of warranty for their products. It can range from no-hassle returns if you dislike the shoes, repairs, or replacing defective boots. If you can find a good pair with a warranty, that’s a big plus.
- Support: Ankle support is crucial for climbing. Your ankles need to have proper support, so you don’t hurt yourself. Bearing that in mind, that the said support shouldn’t make your movements difficult. The other main factor is the shank. That is the support structure between the outsole and the insole. Most lineman climbing boots have steel shanks, which is the best option because it provides the most stability and support.
How to Take Care of Your Boots, so They Last Longer
Exposure to different weather and work conditions has a significant impact on the boots. If you subject your shoes to a range of harsh environments and do not clean and treat them, they will soon be unfit to wear. Here we have prepared a list of care treatments for your boots, so they last you many years.
- Wash them after work. That, of course, applies for times when you were working in a wet, snowy, or muddy environment. Remove the dirt from the shoes and let them air dry. If that isn’t possible, use a hairdryer to speed up the process. Keep in mind that you shouldn’t hold it too close to the boots.
- Use wax, polish, or oil. This depends on the material your shoes are made of. Most models are made of leather. However, different leather materials require specific treatment and products. So, whichever your boots need, be sure to get the right product and treat the shoes regularly.
- You should use a soft brush when treating your work boots, regardless of whether they are made from leather, nubuck, or suede.
- Do not leave your shoes in direct sunlight for long. Sun rays can cause a number of problems to most materials used for shoes. Such can be faded colors, breaking the material due to high temperatures.
How to Break Your Lineman Boots Quicker?
As you already know, lineman boots are a bit different than other work boots. Breaking them in, however, isn’t that particular. The average break-in period for most work boots is between two to four weeks. But with our helpful tips, you may bring it down to the minimum or at least spare our feet the pain and blister while you do so.
- Use a leather conditioner. All new leather is stiff. Other materials are also more rigid in the beginning before you break them in. When you apply a conditioner, it will soften the material, and wearing the shoes won’t be as painful. Most importantly, this helps the boots to take the form of your feet. Overall the process is sped up, and your feet won’t hurt during the first week or two.
- Bend them with care. After a couple of days of wearing the new boots, you can start twisting and bending them little by little. This way, you will loosen the rigid material faster.
- A shoe stretcher can also help. In case you find it extremely difficult or painful to break in the shoes or do not have the time to wait, you can try this method. Good boot stretchers mimic your feet and expand the shoes instead of you.
- Wear them as much as you can but in a smart way. Dedicate a week or two to wear new shoes as much as you can. You probably know that this is a painful process, but you can protect your feet in advance. Use Band-Aids in the key places where you know you’ll get blisters. This way, you can spend more time wearing shoes and speed up the break-in process.
Commonly Asked Questions about Lineman Climbing Boots
Are these Boots Repairable?
Some manufacturers provide a warranty, which may include shoe repair. Also, keep in mind that the more expensive the pair, the easier it will be to repair by an independent cobbler.
What is the Life Expectancy of Lineman Boots?
There isn’t one answer for all lineman boots. Their durability depends on the quality of their materials, how much usage and stress they are under, how you take care of them. The brand and cost are also contributing factors, but that’s not to say that the most famous brand or most expensive boots will last the longest. There are simply too many factors that play a role in the life of lineman boots.
What Size to Order?
It depends on the manufacturer or the model. Most are available in full and half sizes, and you can choose the width. Often times, getting half a size bigger is the preferred option because you can quickly wear boots with thick socks and be comfortable. However, some shoes have additional insulation, which may neutralize the need for thick socks.
Wrap Up
Welcome to the end of our post, and Congratulations! You’ve made it all the way through the guide. Now you’re more aware of what type of boots your feet need so you can safely do your job. When you find and invest in the best lineman climbing boots, you will be thankful that you read this entire article.
We had a great time trying on the shoes and writing our lineman climbing boots reviews and hope that you had a good time reading them. We made sure to answer the common questions for this type of boots. Hopefully, we answered yours as well. However, if you have anything else to ask or add to our post, please do so. We appreciate all feedback.
Thank you for taking the time to read this guide. Come back soon!