With more women entering the skilled labor workforce, women’s work boots are starting to catch up with style and safety needs. Is now the time to switch to boots made exclusively for women? It could be. There are still times you may choose to wear the same boots as your male counterparts, though.
Women’s Boots Don’t Fit Your Feet
Some ladies don’t like to wear men’s boots because they are too broad. If you find that women’s shoes pinch your wide feet, however, try on a pair of men’s boots. Shoemakers make boot sizes based on a boot last, which is a mold a shoemaker uses to build the boot.
Men’s lasts are traditionally wider than lasts made for women’s work boots. Women’s boot lasts also have higher arches. If you have low arches, you may be more comfortable wearing men’s work boots.
You Prefer Extra Support
When you’re on your feet all day, extra support can help protect your feet. Chippewa work boots come up higher on the ankle and offer more support than work footwear made for women. Strong mid-calf boots offer ankle support and may protect you from sprains.
Higher boots also protect your lower leg from bug bites when you’re working in tall grass or wet areas. Boots made for men also provide extra support for the back half of your foot, since the heels are wider than women’s boot heels.
Brown or Black Boots Are Just Fine
Since more manufacturers are designing women’s boots, you can find an array of styles and colors. These options can come with higher price tags, though. If traditional boot colors like tan and black work for you, save some money and find a pair of sturdy men’s boots.
The Brand You Love Doesn’t Make Women’s Boots
Sometimes you don’t have a choice between men’s and women’s styles. If you fall in love with a pair of men’s boots, and the company does not manufacture a female version, try on the men’s style. Start with one or two sizes smaller than your women’s shoe size. If you find a comfortable men’s size, there’s no reason not to buy the boots you want.
Just for the Fun of It
Work isn’t the only reason to add men’s boots to your wardrobe. Back in the 1850s, women who were tired of corsets and skirts wore menswear for the comfort factor alone. If you find men’s boots comfortable, go for it.
You can also try a pair of men’s boots to add a bit of adventure to your next stylish outfit. Pair men’s work boots with your favorite jeans, khakis, or shorts. Your men’s boots may go with dresses and skirts as well.
Manufacturers offer different styles of women’s work boots. If your boots squeeze your feet and make you feel uncomfortable at work, try on a few pairs of men’s boots during your next shopping trip. You can also wear men’s boots when you want to mix up your wardrobe or just to be comfortable.
