We Tested the Best Work Boots For Delivery Drivers in 2022
In a hurry? Our best work boots for delivery drivers are Timberland PRO Direct Attach 6” Soft Toe.
Are you in the market for the best work boots for delivery drivers? This comprehensive guide is for you!
Choosing footwear based on the profession is never an easy task. This is especially the case if you’re a delivery driver who’s on the road for 40-48 hours a week.
Whether you work for UPS, FedEx, DHL, CH Robinson, or any other courier delivery service, it’s crucial that you invest in a pair of high-quality boots that will last longer and offer you the comfort and protection you need.
If you’re sick of wasting money on no-good footwear, I urge you to stick around as I’m about to shed light on the best footwear options for delivery drivers.
Product | Features | Award |
---|---|---|
Timberland PRO Direct Attach 6” Soft-Toe |
| Best Boots for Delivery Drivers |
Skechers Synergy Ekron Alloy-Toe |
| Best Shoes for Delivery Drivers |
KEEN Utility Men's Detroit Mid Steel Toe |
| Best Boots for UPS Drivers |
Caterpillar Revolver Pull-On Steel Toe |
| Best Boots for Truck Driver |
Skechers Afterburn Memory Foam Lace-Up |
| Best Work Sneakers for Delivery Riders |
Timberland PRO Men's Powertrain |
| Best Shoes for FedEx Drivers |
New Balance Men's 412 V1 Alloy Toe |
| Most Comfortable Shoes for UPS Drivers |
Maelstrom Waterproof Leather 6" Boots |
| Best Winter Boots for Delivery Drivers |
How to Choose the Best Boots for Delivery Drivers?
Now that you know my top picks for the best work boots for delivery drivers, how do you go about choosing the right pair for your needs?
Here are the factors you need to take into consideration:
Durability
When it comes to choosing a pair of work boots based on profession, the number-one factor you need to take into consideration is durability (build quality).
I often hear complaints from delivery drivers about how they can’t get more than six months out of any set of work boots they buy. This is absolutely nuts, considering they’re paying big bucks for their boots.
As a delivery driver, the durability and overall reliability of your boots or shoes dictate your success. Flimsy footwear can easily be rendered useless as soon as you get out of your vehicle and start running with the package to ensure that it’s delivered on time.
That being said, you need to opt for footwear that’s built from high-quality materials and that showcases good craftsmanship. The easiest way to do so is to opt for reputable brands that have been around for years.
Aesthetics
Just because they’re “work” boots doesn’t mean they can’t look stylish or appealing.
A lot of people think that the aesthetics of their footwear don’t hold much weight. This couldn’t be further from the truth. Your footwear is the first thing most people notice when they first lay eyes on you.
If your work boots/shoes don’t match your uniform, you won’t look professional. It’s also worth noting that certain companies like UPS have specific requirements that dictate footwear selection.
Speaking of which, if you work for UPS, be sure to check out my article on the best work boots for UPS package handler to learn about footwear requirements set by the company.
Bottom line: opt for work boots that make you look presentable and professional.
Comfort
There are a lot of factors that come into play when talking about footwear comfort. The most notable factor, however, is the size (fit) of your footwear.
Wearing boots that are too tight can restrict your movement and tire your feet. This is a big no-no considering most delivery drivers walk an average of 8-12 miles a day.
Wearing boots that are too loose can be equally frustrating. One sprint can send your work boots flying as you’re racing against the clock to deliver a package on time.
To ensure a proper fit, I recommend measuring your feet more than once before ordering a pair of boots. Be sure to check your measurements with respect to the sizing chart of the footwear brand you’re buying from.
Support
No matter your profession and no matter what type of footwear you intend to buy, proper support is absolutely crucial! Without proper support, you’ll experience fatigue, potential foot pain, and potential back pain.
You have to keep in mind that, as a delivery driver, you do a lot of lifting and bending to pick up and put down packages. You also get in and out of your truck frequently.
All of these movements put stress on your foot’s pressure points, and without optimal support, those pressure points will suffer and compromise your comfort.
There are two aspects of support that you need to focus on, namely arch support and ankle support. Let’s break each of them down.
Arch Support
Arch support is a factor that depends on the natural arch of your foot. With that in mind, you have to measure your foot’s arch to ensure optimal arch support.
Check out this quick video tutorial on how to measure your foot’s arch.
Why is arch support important? Because it ensures maximum comfort, especially if you’re on your feet for hours. It also helps you achieve ideal body posture and prevents back problems.
Ankle Support
Ankle problems are some of the most common injuries that active professionals face. This is especially the case with heavy packagers and delivery workers since they typically carry heavy loads while they’re on their feet.
Proper ankle support comes in the form of work boots that naturally wrap around your ankles. It also comes in the form of comfortable padding that helps keep your ankles upright, preventing sprains and twists.
Breathability
Footwear breathability or ventilation is another critical factor that can affect a delivery driver’s performance.
Breathability relates directly to comfort. The more breathable your boots are, the more comfortable they’ll be. If your boots lack breathability, they’ll overheat and start to smell due to excessive sweating.
Breathability is especially important for people who work in hot climate regions.
Insulation
If you’re a delivery driver who’s based in a cold climate region, like Alaska or North Dakota, you’ll want to pay good attention to insulation.
Insulation in work boots is basically the ability to trap air molecules within the boot’s microfiber. This prevents the cold air outside from entering the boot, which helps keep your foot nice and warm in cold weather conditions.
Some of the most popular insulation solutions in the work boot industry include Thinsulate, OptiWarm, HeatSeeker, Primaloft, and Zylet. All of these solutions come in different forms to accommodate different needs.
Stability
Delivery drivers walk several miles every single workday. They often do so while carrying heavy loads. In fact, according to stats, UPS drivers walk an average of 4 miles each day, depending on the route.
The same stats also indicate that UPS delivery drivers deliver around 17 million packages on an average day.
That being said, wearing boots that provide optimal stability is a must for a delivery driver. Keep in mind that a delivery driver can walk through muddy puddles, spring in the pouring rain, or walk over slippery surfaces.
An accidental slip can injure the driver, render the package useless, or both!
To ensure optimal footwear grip or traction, you need to opt for all-terrain boots. As the name suggests, these boots enable you to walk on any surface without compromising your stability.
Make sure you opt for boots that have anti-ski lug soles that are both oil and water-resistant.
Protection
As a delivery driver, you have to account for accidents that can put your feet at risk. Such accidents include dropping a heavy object on your feet or hitting solid objects with your feet.
Severe foot injuries can prevent you from carrying out your job, so it’s important that you think about safety and protection when in the market for a new pair of work boots.
I highly recommend steel toe work boots for delivery workers because they offer the most protection. If steel toe boots are too hot and heavy for you, consider opting for composite toe boots.
Instead of steel, composite toe boots utilize materials like carbon steel, plastic, and Kevlar. These materials are all considerably lighter than steel, yet they offer excellent protection.
The 8 Best Work Shoes for Delivery Drivers
I’ve made sure my list covers not only the best work boots for delivery drivers but also the best work shoes. So, without any further ado, here are the best footwear choices for delivery drivers:
1. Timberland PRO Direct Attach 6” Soft Toe
Features:
- Rubber outsole
- MaxTRAX slip resistance
- 24/7 comfort system
- Waterproof leather upper
- Soft toe
Who Is It Best For?
The Timberland PRO Direct Attach 6” Soft-Toe is best for delivery drivers who spend a lot of time on the road and are looking for well-rounded boots that are perfect for all-weather and terrain conditions.
Just bear in mind that this work boot doesn’t have a safety toe cap. With that in mind, you need to be careful not to drop a heavy package on your feet while wearing it.
Detailed Review
No matter which delivery company you work for, the Timberland PRO Direct-Attach 6” Soft-Toe is one work boot that you don’t want to miss out on.
With its leather upper and direct-attach construction, this Timberland boot is one of the most durable and sleek-looking options on the market. It’s also pretty comfortable, seeing as it features Timberland’s 24/7 comfort system, which helps in reducing foot fatigue.
This boot’s leather upper is completely waterproof, thanks to its seam-sealed construction. Combine this with 200g Thermolite, and you get an insulated boot that’s perfectly capable of combating cold weather conditions.
The Direct-Attach 6” Soft-Toe is also highly breathable and features moisture-wicking linings. This means that it’s perfect for use in hot weather conditions under the blazing sun as well.
The Thermoplastic Urethane (TPU) outsole, coupled with MaxTRAX tread technology, does a good job of improving the boot’s slip resistance.
You can walk around on slippery surfaces all day with this work boot and not worry about slipping or falling. It’s also worth noting that the outsole is non-marking, abrasion-resistant, and oil-resistant.
The boot is compliant with the ASTM EH standards, which basically means that it’s resistant to electrical hazards. Click here to learn more about ASTM codes and their designated meanings.
One thing that can make or break your purchase with regard to this work boot is its soft toe.
On the one hand, some delivery drivers will appreciate the lack of a soft toe cap since it reduces the boot’s weight. On the other hand, the lack of a safety toe cap puts your feet at risk in the event of a heavy package falling on them.
Pros:
- Lightweight yet very durable construction
- Superior traction and stability on all terrains
- Breathable and moisture-wicking design
- Perfect for both hot and cold weather
- Comfortable and helps reduce foot fatigue
Cons:
- No safety toe cap, putting your toes at risk
- You might need to buy your own insoles
2. Skechers Synergy Ekron Alloy Toe
Features:
- Rubber outsole
- Trubuck leather upper
- Alloy toe cap
- Memory foam insoles
- Anti-slip outsole
Who Is It Best For?
If you’re not fond of work boots and you’re looking for the most well-rounded pair of shoes for your vocation, the Synergy Ekrons from Skechers is your best bet.
These shoes are lightweight, comfortable, highly protective, and look pretty stylish. They’re definitely the best shoes for delivery drivers, regardless of which company you work for.
Detailed Review
I’m a huge fan of the Synergy Ekrons for the simple fact that they’re some of the most versatile work shoes on the market. You can wear them to work, or you can wear them casually. You can even use them as running or walking shoes.
The Synergy Ekrons flaunt quite a few safety features that are guaranteed to keep your feet out of harm’s way, including an alloy safety toe, slip-resistant outsole, and electrical hazard protection.
These shoes are also extremely comfortable, thanks to their memory foam insoles, which aid in providing a great deal of support and cushioning.
The shoes feature Trubuck leather uppers that are both durable and easy to clean. They also feature FlexSole technology, which is a sole technology that aids in shock absorption and keeps your foot’s arch in optimal condition.
The Synergy Ekrons provide remarkable traction on any terrain, so you don’t have to worry about wet and slippery surfaces. The shoes are also perfect for all-day use, thanks to their relaxed fit and lightweight construction.
Pros:
- Suitable for different occasions
- Good cushioning and arch support
- Durable Trubuck leather uppers
- Outstanding traction and stability
- Lightweight and very comfortable
Cons:
- Not suitable for wet/snowy weather
- The insoles are sewn into the shoes
3. KEEN Utility Men’s Detroit Mid Steel Toe
Features:
- Nubuck leather upper
- KEEN.DRY membrane
- CleanSport NXT technology
- Non-marking outsoles
- Asymmetrical steel toe
- Available in brown
Who Is It Best For?
The KEEN Utility Men’s Detroit Mid Steel Toe is perfect for UPS drivers who are looking for heavy-duty boots that can provide the ultimate protection for their feet.
Detailed Review
The KEEN Utility Men’s Detroit Mid Steel Toe is a tank of a work boot. It’s one of the most protective work boots on the market, featuring safety features like slip-resistant outsoles, steel toes, a torsional stability shank, and more.
The boot’s upper is made from Nubuck leather. The upper is completely waterproof, thanks to KEEN.DRY waterproof membrane. The membrane not only keeps water from seeping into the boot but also keeps the boot breathable.
One of the strongest selling points of this boot is the incorporation of CleanSport NXT technology, which serves as a means of providing natural odor protection so that your boots don’t smell.
The boots feature a dual-density EVA footbed that you can easily remove if you wish to switch insoles. The boots also feature reflective webbing to boost your visibility.
Another neat feature that these boots incorporate is the dry-lex lining with the hydrophilic/hydrophobic two-zone comfort technology. This fancy terminology basically indicates that these boots help keep your feet dry at all times.
The Detroit Mid Steel Toe provides good traction on different terrains, thanks to its slip-resistant, oil-resistant, and non-marking outsole.
Pros:
- Numerous safety features
- Keeps your feet dry at all times
- Lightweight despite its rugged build
- Waterproof and breathable
- Natural odor protection
Cons:
- These boots run a bit narrow
- The laces are a bit too long
4. Caterpillar Revolver Pull-On Steel Toe
Features:
- Man-made sole
- Leather upper
- Slip resistant outsole
- Steel toe
- Rated for electrical hazards
Who Is It Best For?
This tall leather boot is best for truck drivers looking for highly protective footwear that doesn’t have any laces. It’s also good for delivery workers who walk long miles. It’s certainly one of the best work boots for truck drivers in general.
Detailed Review
Looking for the best boots for truck driver? Look no further! The Caterpillar Revolver is exactly what you need.
As a truck driver, you don’t want to invest in boots that have laces. The laces could get caught in hanging objects while you’re driving, which could compromise your driving experience.
This is where pull-on boots like the Caterpillar Revolver come in handy. They don’t have laces, they’re oil and water-resistant, they provide protection against electrical hazards, and they’re well-rounded in just about any safety aspect.
The Caterpillar Revolver features a sturdy steel toe that’s guaranteed to keep your toes safe in the event of any heavy object falling on them. The upper is entirely leather, and the sole is made from synthetic material.
Despite its imposing look, the Revolver is a super comfortable boot. In my opinion, this tall leather boot is one of the best walking boots for truck drivers. It’s also wallet-friendly compared to most other pull-on work boots.
Pros:
- Highly protective steel toe
- No laces for a smooth driving/walking experience
- Extremely sturdy construction
- Excellent traction on harsh terrain
- Ideal for heavy packagers
Cons:
- The heel is a bit on the narrow side
- Not suitable for heavy-duty work
5. Skechers Afterburn Memory Foam Lace-Up
Features:
- Leather/mesh upper
- Rubber sole
- Lace-up design
- Memory foam insoles
- Cushioned tongue
Who Is It Best For?
The Skechers Afterburn Memory Foam Lace-Up sneakers are perfect for delivery workers who are looking for lightweight footwear that’s suitable for light-duty work.
Detailed Review
Skechers is a brand that’s known for providing super-comfortable footwear at a wallet-friendly price, and the Afterburn sneakers are an excellent example of what the brand stands for.
These stylish sneakers sport a lace-up design with a leather/mesh upper, padded collar, and supportive overlays. There’s also a cushioned mesh tongue to ensure comfort and visually appealing metal eyelets for the laces.
These sneakers are perfect for delivery riders, thanks to their lightweight and comfortable build. The insoles are memory foam, so you can expect the sneakers to adapt based on the contours of your feet.
The rubber sole provides pretty good traction on dry and wet surfaces alike. Best of all, the sneakers are featured in a wide range of color options and are priced very reasonably.
Pros:
- Lightweight and super comfortable
- Doubles as a casual pair of sneakers
- Perfect for fast-paced work
- Good traction on most surfaces
- One of the most affordable options
Cons:
- Not suitable for cold weather
- They don’t feature safety toe caps
6. Timberland PRO Men’s Powertrain
Features:
- Rubber outsole
- Synthetic sole
- Sturdy textile upper
- Anti-fatigue technology
- Performance design
- Alloy safety toe
Who Is It Best For?
Whether you work for FedEx, UPS, or any other courier company, the Timberland PRO Powertrains are some of the best work shoes for delivery drivers. They’re lightweight, highly protective, and very comfortable.
Detailed Review
If you’ve been following this website for a while, you probably know that I’m a big fan of the Powertrains. They’re everything you’d want from a safety shoe.
For starters, these shoes look unique. The textile upper with mesh linings delivers a very distinctive look. You’ll be hard-pressed to find someone else wearing a similar shoe.
Aesthetics aside, the Powertrains are some of the most comfortable shoes I’ve come across, thanks to Timberland PRO’s anti-fatigue insoles. They’re perfect for all-day-long use.
What’s more, these shoes are as protective as they come. It features a lightweight yet sturdy alloy toe that will keep your toes out of harm’s way. It also features static dissipative protection and a high-traction sole.
The Powertrains come in a range of color options, so you’re guaranteed to find a color that suits your company’s footwear requirements.
In addition to being the best shoes for FedEx drivers, I’d say that these are the best shoes for FedEx courier as well.
And since we’re on the topic of Timbs, you may also want to check out the Timberland White Ledge if you’re a FedEx courier and you’re more into boots than shoes.
Pros:
- Very distinctive design
- Comfortable and lightweight
- Suitable for casual occasions
- They provide great stability
- Durable and breathable
Cons:
- Not suitable for cold weather
7. New Balance Men’s 412 V1 Alloy Toe
Features:
- Ripstop nylon
- Rubber sole
- EVA insoles
- Alloy toe cap
- Available in black
Who Is It Best For?
If you’re a UPS driver who’s looking for a lightweight shoe that provides good foot protection without weighing the user down, the New Balance 412V1 is right up your alley.
Detailed Review
New Balance is a brand that’s known for creating some of the best safety shoes and sneakers out there, and the New Balance 412V1is a testament to the brand’s remarkable build quality.
This shoe is the epitome of comfort. Its ripstop nylon construction makes it one of the lightest options on the list, weighing only about 15 ounces.
What’s more, the shoe houses an alloy toe cap that’s as protective as steel toe caps, but much lighter. This makes these shoes perfect for driving, hiking and even running.
The rubber outsole is slip-resistant, so you don’t have to worry about wet, slippery surfaces. The shoes also feature EVA inserts to ensure maximum comfort (more on EVA insoles in the buyer’s guide section).
It’s worth noting that these shoes meet the ASTM F2413-17 C/75 and I/75 standards for compression and impact safety. They’re also tested in accordance with the ASTM F2913-17 standard for reliable traction.
Pros:
- Perfect for people with wide feet
- Reliable traction on all surfaces
- Comfortable EVA insoles
- Super lightweight construction
- Cost-effective
Cons:
- The insoles aren’t long-lasting
- Not a good work boot for cold weather
8. Maelstrom Waterproof Leather 6″ Boots
Features:
- Leather upper
- Rubber sole
- Waterproof liner
- EVA midsoles
- Anti-fatigue technology
Who Is It Best For?
The Maelstrom Waterproof Leather Boots are the best boots for delivery drivers who are based in areas of cold climate and who are looking for boots that can handle rain, sleet, and now.
Detailed Review
Maelstrom boots may not be as popular as the likes of Timberland, Red Wing, Carhartt Men, KEEN Utility, and Justin Original work boots, but the brand certainly has a range of products that are absolutely mind-boggling as far as value for the money.
Based on my expertise and experience, the Maelstrom Waterproof Boots are the best winter boots for delivery drivers. Why? Because they’re just as reliable as some of the top-tier winter boots on the market, but they cost a lot less!
These boots feature a three-sole support system that’s engineered to reduce foot fatigue, absorb shocks and impact, and maintain stability. They also feature a non-marking, non-slip rubber outsole to ensure optimal traction.
Despite their rugged look, these boots are comparatively lightweight and flexible. They also feature cushioned insoles and EVA midsoles to ensure maximum comfort and custom orthopedics.
The boots can hold their own against the harshest weather conditions. The proprietary waterproof liner performs very well in rain, snow, and sleet. It’s also quite breathable, so you don’t have to worry about your feet getting too hot.
I feel the need to point out that Maelstrom is a brand that’s dedicated to improving the lives of veterans. A portion of every sale is processed to charity in support of veterans worldwide. A pretty noble cause if you ask me.
Pros:
- Performs very well in harsh conditions
- Excellent traction on all types of terrain
- Comfortable and surprisingly lightweight
- Listed at a wallet-friendly price tag
- Every sale supports veterans worldwide
Cons:
- Not the most durable laces
- They run slightly narrow
What Safety Hazards Do Delivery Drivers Face?
Just because delivery drivers spend most of their job workdays on the road doesn’t mean they don’t face their fair share of difficulties.
Here are some of the most common safety hazards that delivery drivers face:
- Accidental trips, slips, and falls, especially on wet, slippery, and uneven terrain of the job site
- Delivery drivers can get into vehicle accidents
- The risk of overexertion and back pain due to excessive manual labor (lifting heavy loads and such)
- Delivery workers run the risk of dropping heavy packages on their feet
- Harsh weather and terrain conditions
- Foot fatigue associated with walking long distances and wearing low-quality footwear
- Entire body fatigue associated with working long shifts.
- The different nature of job sites that could be a mix of city/rural.
Tips for Getting the Most Comfortable Boots for Delivery Drivers
There are many tips that delivery drivers can implement to ensure maximum footwear comfort. Below are some of the best tips for getting the most comfort out of your work boots.
1. Replace the Insoles
Seeing as delivery workers walk several miles a day, you need to consider replacing your footwear’s insoles every 3-4 months to ensure maximum comfort.
High-quality, full-length insoles cost $40-$80. Such insoles offer reliable support and they last very long. On the other hand, low-quality insoles cost $15-$40 and they break down fast, so they need to be replaced often.
EVA footbeds (insoles) are considered the standard nowadays. They flaunt special cushioning characteristics that ensure every single footstep is absorbed gently and comfortably.
EVA (ethylene vinyl acetate) insoles are also highly resistant to extreme weather conditions and are remarkably long-lasting.
So, how do you know when it’s time to replace your insoles? Here are some telltale signs:
- Visual damage in the insoles, such as cracks and tears
- Foul odor, which indicates the presence of fungal or bacterial growth
- Lack of cushioning and support due to compression
- The insole’s colors and logo are starting to fade away
If you don’t want to spend money on insoles every 3-4 months, I strongly recommend opting for TreadLabs insoles. These insoles feature a unique two-part system that’s designed for lifetime use.
The two-part system is composed of molded arch supports (unconditionally guaranteed) and interchangeable top covers that can easily be replaced.
TreadLabs offer a “million mile guarantee” on their insoles. If you’re unhappy with any of their products, all you have to do is drop them a line and they’ll be happy to help you.
2. Wear Quality Socks
One of the easiest ways to make your work boots more comfortable is to wear high-quality socks. Ideally, you want to wear two pairs of socks to ensure better cushioning and support.
As far as socks selection, you want to steer clear of cotton socks. They do offer a lot of warmth and support, but they’re not the softest option on the market. The same applies to nylon socks.
You want to invest in lightweight socks that are made with airy fabrics. In the hotter months of the year, consider options like Smartwool and Lululemon Athletica socks.
In the colder months of the year, I recommend brands like Darn Tough, which happens to be my favorite brand of socks. Darn Tough socks are made entirely in the USA, feature fast-action wicking, and offer an excellent performance fit.
3. Consider High-Top Footwear
If you’re concerned about rolling your ankle or getting your ankle sprained, you should consider investing in high-top work shoes. High-top shoes are the ones that extend slightly over the ankle.
The high-top design is mostly associated with athletic shoes, especially the ones that are intended for basketball. However, you can find plenty of work shoes that have a high-top design.
It’s worth noting that ankle spraining and rolling are prevalent among delivery workers. Whether you’re using your Delivery Information Acquisition Device (DIAD), talking to customers while walking, or rushing to deliver a package, your ankle is at risk of getting sprained or rolled.
4. Consider Waterproof Footwear
Delivering packages in rainy and wet regions like the Pacific Northwest can be quite challenging for delivery drivers if they’re not wearing waterproof work boots.
Waterproof work boots help prevent water from seeping in, and so they keep your feet dry and warm. Waterproof boots also help prevent blisters, which are more likely to happen when your feet are wet.
5. Consider Boots With Vibram Soles
Vibram’s rubber soles are some of the best sole options when it comes to water resistance. They prevent your feet from getting wet, and they prevent water damage significantly.
It’s also worth noting that rubber soles are a lot more flexible than leather soles. This means that it would take you less time to break in a pair of boots that feature Vibram soles than it would take you with leather soles.
6. Avoid Running Shoes
As a delivery worker, you should steer clear of running shoes as they can’t be retreaded. Having boots/shoes that can be retreaded ensures durability and will help save you money in the long run.
7. Be Mindful of Weather Changes
Delivery drivers face all sorts of weather conditions, which is why I recommend investing in two pairs of boots instead of just one.
One pair should be waterproof and insulated for winter use, and the other should be highly breathable for summer use.
Lace-up boots are ideal for winter use, whereas pull-on boots are suitable for summer use, especially if you take a lot of naps and make a lot of stops during your shift.
8. Don’t Get Hung Up on One Pair
If you want your work boots to last long, you can’t be wearing the same pair every single day. You have to rotate between different pairs so that they don’t get worn out quickly.
If you have a favorite pair of boots that you love to wear to work and you don’t want to switch to another pair, I’d suggest buying another pair of the same boots.
You should note that rotating your shoes helps keep your feet comfortable by allowing the foam in the soles to regenerate fully. This, in turn, ensures consistent support, cushioning, and shock absorption.
9. Don’t Cheap Out on Shoes
Cheaping out on footwear, especially as a delivery worker, can be detrimental to your workflow. Cheap shoes are uncomfortable and don’t offer enough support, cushioning, or protection.
Now, I know that shoes like the Brahma Steel Toes are popular among delivery workers, but they’re only popular because you can get them for about $30 at Walmart. They’re not high-quality enough for daily delivery tasks.
Granted, I’ve seen a few people talking about how their Brahmas lasted for a couple of years. However, the vast majority seem to agree that Brahma shoes wear out quickly—torn seams, ripped laces, and heels with mouths!
10. Stop Springing on the Balls of Your Feet
If you find yourself springing on the balls of your feet too often, you need to put an end to this habit because you’re putting a lot of pressure on the front of your feet (metatarsal arch). This can result in inflamed feet.
If you’re in the habit of springing on the balls of your feet, you need to train yourself to walk more flat-footed. Yes, it can be slow and awkward, but it’ll prevent your feet from developing tendinitis in the metatarsal arch.
11. Use a Boot Dryer Regularly
Did you know that the presence of bacteria and fungus in your boots can get you infected with Athlete’s foot? In addition, bacteria and fungus can cause your feet to smell.
How do you go about eliminating bacteria and fungus from your footwear? It’s simple. All you have to do is use a high-quality foot dryer, especially if you live in a wet or snowy environment.
You can also use Lysol to get rid of bacteria and fungus. Simply spray some Lysol onto a few paper towels, then stuff the towels in your boots and let the Lysol work its magic overnight.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I Wear Timberlands at UPS?
Yes, you can wear Timberlands to UPS. You can actually wear any brand of boots to UPS as long as the boots meet the company’s requirements.
What Are the Best Boots for a UPS Driver?
According to the UPS driver helper’s checklist, the best boots for UPS drivers are the ones that feature sturdy leather uppers, offer good support, and have non-slip soles.
An excellent example is the Timberland PRO Direct Attach 6” Soft-Toe Boot.
Please note that UPS doesn’t allow its drivers to wear the following:
- Sneakers
- Running shoes
- Loafers
- Sandals
- Tennis shoes
- Any other type of footwear that doesn’t provide ample support and protection
What Do the Best Shoes for Delivery Drivers Have?
Generally speaking, the best shoes for delivery drives have sturdy upper, supportive non-slip soles, good insulation, and a protective toe. Boots that lack these characteristics aren’t ideal for delivery drivers.
Do I Need to Wear Work Boots for UPS?
No, you don’t need to wear work boots for UPS. You can wear work/safety shoes if you want, as long as your shoes meet the company’s requirements.
What Are the Best Boots for Truck Driver?
The Caterpillar Revolver Pull-On Steel Toe is one of the best boots for truck driver. It’s a pull-on boot that doesn’t have any laces, which ensures a safer driving experience. It’s also durable, slip-resistant, and houses a steel toe cap.
What Are the Best Shoes for FedEx Drivers?
The best shoes for FedEx drivers are the Timberlands PRO Men’s Powertrain. In fact, I’d go as far as to say they’re the best shoes for delivery workers, period. They’re sturdy, comfortable, and highly protective.
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I’m Shaun Williams, editor-in-chief of Workwear Digest. My objective to help fellow blue-collar workers make informed buying decisions when choosing their workwear. I have over 15 years of combined experience with many industrial and manual labor jobs. I started out as a construction laborer and a part-time driver, then I worked as a heavy equipment operator. Currently, I work as an estimator for a local landscape company.