Steel toe or not; another boot thread

[erosado]

I owned a pair of Hi-Tec boots for many years, but had to retire them. I am looking to buy a new pair of boots, and one of my concerns is about steel or no steel toe.

I may use the boots once a month, maybe more, but I would not be using them everyday, for 12 hours a shift. Aside from the known safety issues related to steel toe boots, how can they affect comfort, or even durability?

[FedRich]

We were required to wear steel toe onboard cutters/boats in the Coast Guard. My biggest complaint about them is that they transmit the weather conditions to your feet, i.e. hot in the summertime and freezing in the winter (though you probably don't have to worry about the cold in the Caribbean).

There are options out there if you are concerned about dropping stuff on your feet. Some manufacturers use kevlar or fiberglass material in the toe. They won't cut your toes off if something exceeds its rating (which is somewhat of an urban legend with steel toes).

[erosado]

Do you remember what boots they used to sell at the USCG Exchange? I think that Danners, but I am not sure. I may have the option to buy them at the CGX but not sure yet.

As for feeling the temperature, is it that obvious? When it gets hot here, they mean HOT and STEAMY. Can that be defeated with good quality socks?

[FedRich]

CGES stores usually carried Bates, Danners, and Rockys, though it varied by store. Prices will be good though.

I've worn steel toes as far south as Colombia (usually on a hot steel deck), and yes, they do cause your feet to sweat something fierce. Some of the newer socks out there might help, just remember that steel toes don't breath as well.

[erosado]

Thanks for the info.

I will be comparing a couple of brands tomorrow, and I guess I may decide with a broader knowledge base, and your input will be there when I make the choice.

Thanks