Fashion may not be a word normally associated with work and safety boots, but in 2026 brands are cooking up new boot styles that not only meet on-the-job performance demands but also boast plenty of on-trend stylish ingredients, as well. The right aesthetic is without a doubt, crucial to success in the category. Retro vibes, athletic-influences, on-trend colors, all-day versatility—demands often driven by younger consumers—are all a part of the perfect recipe.

“We’re definitely seeing throwbacks trending,” says Sam Sproull, brand marketing manager, Warson Brands. “Similar to what’s happening in fashion overall, consumers are gravitating toward classic, heritage-inspired silhouettes, timeless designs that feel familiar, authentic, and are built to last. There is a nostalgia there, and a sense of trust. Retro is having a moment.”

“The sneaker/shoe hybrid is trending,” affirms Kelly Dumpson, head of sales – wholesale, SAS, noting that “everything people love about their sneakers” is what they want in work offerings, along with versatility.

“This new generation of tradespeople don’t want to leave their personalities at the door when they clock-in to work,” notes Kevin Oberle, senior director of global insights & engagement at KEEN Utility. “Our Millennial and Gen Z customers in particular, are seeking versatility in their footwear with a growing desire for safety styles that can be worn on and off the job… They don’t want to wear their parents’ or grandparents’ work boots.”

“With this in mind, safety footwear is trending towards faster and lighter designs,” Oberle continues. “Athletic-work safety footwear has been growing in popularity in recent years, in part, because it offers the comfort and style of something resembling a sneaker, while still providing the required safety features for the job.”

Materials and colors with an urban, stylish feel are trending in work offerings. “We are seeing rich suedes and nubuck in deep tones of chocolate, teal, navy,” says Jennifer Sokso, Propet.

Eye catching colors are also having a moment. “When it comes to 2026 trends, bright is the new white,” says Emily Soloby, founder and CEO, Juno Jones. “It’s not just about visibility (though that’s a huge part of it); it also reflects a shift in how people want to express themselves while they work. Color is no longer an afterthought or a ‘shrink it and pink it’ solution. Women in particular are embracing color as a form of confidence and personality in a space that’s historically been very utilitarian. This movement aligns with what we’ve always believed: safety footwear should be functional first, but it should also reflect identity and energy. In 2026, color isn’t just trending—it’s becoming a new standard in how safety footwear shows up and stands out.”

Roxy at Work Jeyna

This women’s work boot meets key safety requirements and also brings warmth, flexibility, and protection in a sleek black work bootie silhouette. Featuring an elastic knit collar for easy on-and-off comfort, Jeyna is made to keep women feeling secure and supported.

Q&A The Fit Factor

Offering a fit that feels “right” is critical for boot brands. And offering a variety of sizes, including extended sizes and wider widths, is one way to help set your brand apart.

We asked brands about the importance of fit. Here’s what they said.

Q: How critical is proper fit in the boot category, and how does your brand approach/achieve it for consumers?

“Fit is everything in PPE. If a shoe or boot doesn’t fit properly, it can compromise the effectiveness of its safety features and lead to fatigue, distraction, or even injury. At Warson Brands, we design with the jobsite in mind. Workers face long hours, hard surfaces, and constant movement, which means they need protection that feels comfortable and dependable all day long.

Our approach starts with understanding how people actually move and stand throughout the workday, then engineering footwear with supportive structures, ergonomic shaping, and multiple fit options to meet real-world demands. We’re also fortunate to work with athletic and heritage brands whose proven insights help inform our design process. The result is PPE that delivers protection without sacrificing comfort or performance.” - Sam Sproull, brand marketing manager, Warson Brands

“Hoss is all about big and wide, and offers the widest and largest sizes available in a safety shoe. We offer more than 20 styles above size 15.”- Don Colbert, CEO, Hoss Boot Company

“Boots are in demand for weather and protection but they are not typically known for all-day comfort. We make a unique last for every size and width and offer an expansive size range and three widths for men and women to achieve proper fit and all-day comfort for the majority of consumers.” - Kelly Dumpson, head of sales – wholesale, SAS

“Fit is our niche. We approach fit by offering a wide range of sizes and widths so there is no need to compromise on getting best fit from the last. We also offer extra depth footbed with spacer insoles to customize the fit and use adaptive closures to help tune and adjust feet.” - Jennifer Sokso, Propet

“Proper fit is critical in safety footwear, where people are on their feet for long hours and relying on their boots for protection, comfort, and stability. At Juno Jones, we stand firm that a proper, gender-based fit is foundational. Poor fit (due to unisex lasts among other things) leads to fatigue, discomfort, and ultimately reduced safety on the job site.

That’s why Juno Jones women’s safety boots and sneakers are always designed on a women’s last from the ground up. The outdated idea of ‘unisex’ fit is no longer acceptable in today’s market– ‘unisex’ doesn’t reflect the anatomical differences in women’s feet. Ignoring those differences results in footwear that never quite fits the way it should, leading to lower productivity and injury. Juno Jones’ approach prioritizes precision fit by building every women’s style specifically for women, not by downsizing men’s patterns. The result is footwear that fits and supports women properly, performs as intended, and allows them to focus on their work—not their feet.” - Emily Soloby, founder and CEO, Juno Jones

“Proper fit is absolutely fundamental — especially in Western footwear, where consumers rely on comfort, stability, and performance from the first step to the last. A boot can look exceptional, but if it doesn’t feel right, it won’t deliver. At Ariat, innovation and technology are at the core of everything we do, and that commitment extends directly to fit. Fit is never an afterthought — it’s engineered into the product from the very beginning.” - Shane Holman, VP, western footwear merchandizing & licensing, Ariat

“In the work boot category, fit is more than just ensuring comfort–it’s a safety imperative. That’s because fit is the first line of defense against jobsite accidents. Boots too large may lead to tripping hazards and instability, while too tight boots and shoes can lead to a variety of foot ailments, faster fatigue, and a greater risk for injury.

Fit has been part of the foundation of KEEN Utility from the start. When launching the brand, our goal was to bring our hiking boot fit with out-of-the-box comfort and no break-in period to safety footwear and we’ve been working to perfect the design ever since. We believe the key to this fit is a wide toe box paired with a snug heel.

We also offer wide, asymmetrical toe boxes that allow your toes and forefoot to flex and spread out when you move. This gives you greater stability and greater comfort when standing and walking on the job. We also make 5 different sizes of safety toes to allow a greater range of fit. The result is a fit that keeps you safe and comfortable on the job, each step of the day.” - Kevin Oberle, senior director of global insights & engagement, KEEN Utility

KEEN Utility Targhee Blur

New for Spring ’26, the Targhee Blur is a light, fast athletic work hiker, with out-of-the-box comfort that lasts. It features a mid-height upper with KEEN.DRY technology for reliable water protection, KEEN.ReGEN+ cushioning that returns over 60% energy with each step for all-shift comfort, a lightweight carbon toe that protects without weighing you down, and a mid-height upper for agile movement with more protection. The Targhee Blur is available for men in mid and low collar heights and several colorways.

Reebok Shaqnosis Work

Inspired by Shaquille O’Neal’s on-court power, the Shaqnosis Work Men’s Black High Top Work Sneaker brings the retro athletic design into the workplace with enhanced durability and safety. Featuring composite toe protection and Hexalite cushioning, the Shaqnosis also boasts XTR Extra Wide Toe Caps and a MemoryTech Memory Foam Footbed. MSRP $149.95.

Juno Jones Solstice

Bright, energetic, and impossible to ignore, the women’s Solstice Composite Toe Sneaker in Hazard Girl Orange delivers high visibility on the jobsite. Designed specifically for women’s feet, the Spring ’26 style is a lightweight, metal-free safety sneaker that is ASTM F2413-18 certified for impact, compression, static dissipation (SD-10), and slip resistance. Built for all-day wear, the Solstice is also aa comfortable, non-slip walking shoe, featuring water-resistant Cordura uppers and full-grain leather reinforcements at the toe and heel for durability. MSRP $109.

Propet Spero

Offered in wide widths and designed for those who like an athletic vibe, this lightweight athletic inspired work boot boasts performance traits such as a safety toe and is puncture resistant and slip/oil resistant. Offered in three widths up to 5E. Available August 2026. MSRP $154.99.

Ariat Styker Neo 6” Waterproof Work Boot

Ready for whatever the job throws your way, the Styker Neo delivers dependable comfort and traction across a range of environments. It’s built for construction and outdoor work, but fully equipped to handle indoor tasks, too. Featuring a lightweight stabilizing shank, oil-and-slip-resisting Duratread outsole for maximum wear resistance, and DRYShield waterproof breathable construction. Available in a soft toe and safety toe. Release date is Sept. 1, 2026. MSRP $164.95.

Skechers Work After Burn M.Fit 2.0 – Zibiax

Steel safety toe meets ASTM F2413 impact and compression standards in this outdoor-influenced workboot with a Skechers Air-Cooled Memory Foam cushioned comfort insole. The boot is also Electrical Hazard (EH) safe design tested ASTM-F2413 and boasts an anti-slip Goodyear Rubber Outsole under wet or dry conditions. Its metallic puncture-resistant midsole provides protection against sharp objects such as glass, nails or metal shards.

Red Wing IronFlex #2620

This medium-duty performance boot with a trades-worker-sourced fit is informed by more than three million foot scans from Red Wing’s Ultimate Fit Experience and validated through advanced wear testing with real tradespeople. IronFlex aims to deliver a level of fit precision unlike anything before. It features American-made leather crafted in Red Wing, Minnesota, and the BOA Fit System. MSRP $274.99.

PUMA SAFETY Trail Protect

Built to conquer the workday no matter the terrain, Puma Safety’s Trail Protect footwear  boasts XTS TRAIL outsoles for cross terrain grip, lightweight and flexible IMPULSE.BLAST midsoles for responsive energy return, and an EVERCUSHION RELIEF Footbed that absorbs shock and cushions every stride. The Puma Safety boots are also lightweight and waterproof — because “Work is your Trail.”

Timberland PRO BOA Morphix 6” Composite Toe Waterproof Boot

You won’t find traditional laces on the Morphix Composite-Toe BOA Waterproof Boot. Instead, the boot features the BOA Fit System, which delivers micro-adjustable, precision fit, engineered and guaranteed to perform in the toughest conditions. The PerformFit Wrap configuration allows for a quick turn of the dial to adjust the fit for improved stability, control, and energy efficiency. Inside, Anti-Fatigue Technology delivers all-day shock absorption while HoverSpring technology returns energy with every step. MSRP $200.

Rocky Grindstone XTR Moc Toe BOA

Built with durability, comfort, and superior protection in mind, the Grindstone XTR is a go-to for demanding environments. The premium waterproof full grain leather upper and Guaranteed Rocky Recycled Waterproof Construction keep feet dry in wet and muddy conditions, while flex welt construction ensures long-lasting performance. A perfect fit can be dialed in for custom comfort with the micro-adjustable BOA Fit System. Plus, the boot features an Oil, Slip, Barnyard Acid, and Chemical Resisting PU Outsole and Rocky Air-Port Lite Sponge PU Footbed with Memory Foam. This Spring ’26 work boot meets ASTM F2413 protective toe classification and electrical hazard standard. MSRP $199.99.

DC Work Crew Navigator Work

The Navigator Work Shoe takes bold 90s style a step further with extra armor to make it DC’s toughest work boot yet. The traditional lacing system is replaced with BOA Fit System which delivers a micro- adjustable, precision fit, engineered and guaranteed to perform in the toughest conditions. It also has a rubber bumper and molded heel counter, XTR Extra Wide Toe Caps for toes to move freely and fully, and Comfort Cruise removable footbed.

Danner Ground Control

This work boot packs the must-have safety and durability features—full grain leather, steel toe (optional), DuraGrip oil-and-slip-resistant TPU outsole—at an approachable price point for any job, any place. Made with a full-grain leather upper, it also features Danner Dry waterproof protection. MSRP $140-150.

Lems Tactical Pro Mid‍

Boulder-based Lems, known for its zero-drop, natural-shape design, is partnering with Vibram on a new boot collection that includes this mid-cut tactical boot delivering natural movement and ground feel without sacrificing protection. With a full-grain leather upper and a breathable polyester mesh lining, this ultralight boot is ready for multi-terrain versatility. MSRP $215.

Baffin Ice Crew (STP)

This slip-on men’s boot offers comfort, durability and protection for technical and emergency services. Designed for quick entry in urgent situations, compatible with uniform standards, and built to perform in unpredictable climates, Ice Crew (Safety Toe & Plate) features a mid-height, waterproof leather upper with a breathable membrane and boasts an outsole featuring IceBite for greater slip resistance on ice. A multi-layer inner boot system ensures warmth. MSRP $200.

Zamberlan Logger Pro GTX

The Italian brand’s most advanced work boot, the ISO certified Logger Pro GTX RR S3 is now available in a high visibility Acid Green colorway for mountain logging and utility linemen working in rugged terrain. The “chainsaw proof” Logger Pro features an advanced, cut-resistant three-layer aramid fiber lining and is also ISO certified for anti-perforation, anti- static, and safety toe performance. MSRP $575.

Hoss Boot Company Crossover Hiker

An outdoor/athletic-inspired work boot, the lightweight Crossover features a composite safety toe and shank, while also boasting waterproof and moisture-wicking properties, as well as a !WOW! Comfort system. The boot also boasts an EVA midsole and rubber outsole. The style is offered up to size 14 2E(W).

SAS Premiere WK

Available in men’s and women’s versions, the Premiere WK is a Chelsea boot with athletic comfort and safety/work boot features. It is certified slip resistant, has a water-resistant leather upper, Tripad comfort technology and an ultralight midsole. The men’s style first shipped in a small test run in Fall ’25, while the women’s style is new for Fall ’26. MSRP $149.

Lifestyle Boots

Living the Life!

Authenticity, quiet details and easy-to-style silhouettes are just a few of the big picture trends impacting lifestyle boot offerings in 2026. “Material quality, thoughtful details, and a strong balance of fashion and function remain key, with performance features such as lightweight construction, waterproofing, and arch support continuing to play a crucial role,” notes Emily Hagen, designer, Alegria.

ECCO Sculpted LX 55 Mid Buckle Boot

New for the AW’26 season, this stylish, premium leather boot will launch in three colorways – a warm camel, mocha, and black. The boot’s sleek silhouette is accented by a 55 mm platform heel for a confident lift. A side zip and adjustable buckle ensure a secure, effortless fit, while the design delivers all-day comfort and support. MSRP $220.

Alegria Whitley

Whitley gives a subtle nod to the enduring western trend through an almond toe and Cuban-inspired heel, while its clean leather foot and softly slouchy microfiber shaft create a city-chic, versatile silhouette designed to live well beyond the trend. Also boasts the brand’s Signature arch support and an internal zipper for easy on and off. Available Fall ’26. MSRP $170.

Taos Marvel

These fashionable yet supportive leather ankle boots are crafted from buttery-soft full-grain leather and feature a flexible elastic gore at the ankle for easy movement, plus a delicate ankle strap and buckle for a polished, feminine finishing touch. Plus, they deliver superior arch support, cushioning, and long-lasting comfort. Available Fall ’26. MSRP $250.

Revitalign Aspen Fireside

This slip-on style, featuring water-resistant suede and a soft sherpa lining, incorporates the brand’s Full Contact Comfort footbed, delivering orthotic support. The boot also features COMFORTPRO lightweight outsole-grade EVA technology, which provides orthotic support along with articulated flex zones. Available now in multiple colors. MSRP $109.99.

Rieker Berta 68

A stylish performer, Rieker’s Berta 68 boot sports a leather upper as well as a side zipper. In addition to the zipper, it has a flexible shaft edge, which makes it easy to put it on. The grippy sole provides good traction. Additionally, the boot has a padded and removable soft insole. MSRP $150.

Propet Delaney

This women’s lifestyle boot features mixed materials on the upper and an eye-catching colorway, along with the brand’s comfort traits. Seen here in dark teal, Delaney is available in August 2026. Offered in four widths up to 4E. MSRP $114.99.

Xtratuf Out of the Ordinary

Xtratuf steps beyond the docks this season with the new Out of the Ordinary collection — boots with style, blending the brand’s signature performance DNA with a street-ready, trendy look. Designed for everyday adventures, the collection pairs the practical function Xtratuf is known for with modern silhouettes that carry the brand’s coastal roots into city environments. Each pair features soft pull tabs and a cushioned footbed. MSRP $125.

Remonte Ashley 73

Blending sleek style with comfort features, Remonte’s Ashley 73 boots boast a suede leather upper and also feature a light velour lining and removable soft insoles. MSRP $155.

Ariat Casanova X Toe Western Boot

The Champagne Pearl Croc print seen here is one of several new, on-trend prints that Ariat is releasing in its best-selling Casanova western boot next fall. Gorgeous stitching, premium leather, and the knee height make this women’s boot a showstopper. Available in Oct. ’26. MSRP $299.95.