Boots are ready to meet the moment in the new year. Amidst a challenging 2020, the work and outdoor categories kept their heads above water due to consumer demand. And for 2021, new boot styles across the board are hitting on all cylinders.

Durability, comfort and protection never go out of style in the work and safety footwear category. And even as the footwear business has been challenged in 2020, work footwear has continued to deliver with performance, style and more.

Three trends to watch in “on the job” footwear options: Made in USA; Comfort on the Job; and Lightweight Style.

There’s a new breed of work boots in town. High-tech, high style, high comfort and high energy, they are designed to work 24/7, and when the job is done, they know how to walk away and play hard, too.

Lawn and garden workers, delivery drivers, restaurant workers, nurses and doctors are on their feet day in and day out on the job. But these hard-working consumers aren’t looking for a traditional work boot.

For a large — and growing — group of professionals, what they put on their feet is part of the critical equipment for the day. Whether it’s nurses, chefs, waiters, urban farmers, lawn and garden pros, fishermen or warehouse and delivery drivers, these work shoe and boot wearers are looking for...