Between the elements, electricity, and the high risks of slips and falls, roofing is a dangerous job. In fact, it’s the third most dangerous job in the world. In this profession, you must do what you can to minimize risks while on the job site. You might think of OSHA safety precautions like hard hats and safety harnesses, but what about your roofing shoes?
The shoes you wear while roofing can play a huge role in your job safety and success. Wear the wrong shoes, and your feet can get tired, cramped, and overheated. Worse, you can get stabbed by a loose nail or even lose traction on a steep roof incline.
To protect yourself from all sorts of injuries, you’ve got to have good roofing shoes. We polled real roofers like you to find some of the best shoes for roofing, as well as boots, to help you pick out a pair that will keep you safe and comfortable.
Let’s get started!
What Are the Key Features of Good Roofing Shoes?
While there are many roofing shoes on the market, not all of them are good roofing shoes. As you pick out the best shoes for your roofing jobs, consider the following factors to help you find a good pair.
- Toe Impact Resistance: With so many tools and supplies on a roof during a job, things can easily drop on your toes. The best roofing shoes help offset some of the impact to prevent broken bones.
- Electric Hazard Protection: At the job site, you and your crew are exposed to overhead power lines, extension cords, and electrical equipment all the time. You need good roofing shoes that can help protect your feet from electrical shocks.
- Puncture Resistance: Roofs are full of sharp objects that can harm you while roofing: nails, hammers, etc. You need good roofing shoes to prevent those objects from hurting your feet.
- Grip: As a roofer, you need shoes with unparalleled traction to keep you from slipping and falling off the roof, especially on steep and slippery rooftops.
- Comfort: An uncomfortable roofing shoe is a lousy roofing shoe. The best shoes for roofing are comfortable to wear for long periods.
- Weight: Heavy roofer’s shoes will slow you down and make you tired faster, so you need to find the right weight.
- Flexibility: The best roofing shoes can withstand steep roof inclines and move with your foot around tight spaces.
8 Best Shoes for Roofing
Many types of shoes can work for roofing, including running, CrossFit, hiking, and climbing shoes. Here are some of the best roofing shoes.
Note: Our editorial team has independently selected and reviewed all products we feature. If you make a purchase using the included links, we may earn commission.
Nike Free Run Shoes
The Nike Free shoe series has centered around giving you comfort without weighing you down. That mentality explains the lightweight and breathable material that keeps your feet from heating up on a roof in the summertime.
Nike Free Run shoes have deep grooves in the sole that provide unmatched flexibility, so you can make quick turns. The sole also has a cushion for better stability on rough roofs.
Get Nike Free Run Shoes on Amazon.
No Bull CrossFit® Trainer+
CrossFit and roofing aren’t the same, but they follow some of the same principles: carrying heavy weights, squatting, and more.
The No Bull CrossFit® Trainer+ has a lower base, so you can keep your balance better and improve your stability, which is essential on a high rooftop. These roofing shoes also have a generous toe box, so your toes don’t feel cramped.
Reebok Nano
Good roofing shoes for men and women
The Reebok Nano collection provides just the right balance of stability and cushion to keep your feet from feeling fatigued after a long day of roofing.
Reebok Nanos make for great roofing shoes because of their strong rubber outsoles. The soles have a lot of treads to give you traction, even on metal roofs. Additionally, some Nanos have a TPU shell on the heel to provide heel support while keeping the shoe light.
Get Reebok Nano Shoes on Amazon.
Nike MetCon 8
Roofers love the Nike MetCon shoe series. Designed for heavy lifting, this CrossFit-friendly shoe has a heel insert that adds stability. That stability comes in handy when you’re balancing on a roof.
The Nike MetCon 8 has more breathability and comfort than the previous MetCon iterations, but they all provide excellent traction. You can even design your own Nike MetCon to be the exact roofing shoe you want.
Get Nike MetCon 8 Shoes on Amazon.
Under Armour Charged Bandit Trail Running Shoes
Good roofing shoes for men and women
These trail running shoes are perfect for climbing on shingles and navigating around obstacles on the roof. Under Armour Charged Bandit shoes absorb shock and have a molded collar to keep your heel comfortably in place without hindering your mobility.
The Charged Bandit has a rubber high-abrasion outsole that provides traction and prevents objects from puncturing your shoe. Next time you step on a nail at the job site, you’ll be glad you had these roofing shoes to protect your feet.
Get Under Armour Charged Bandit Trail Running Shoes from Amazon.
Under Armour Charged Assert Trail Running Shoes
The Charged Assert shoes have a lightweight mesh upper that keeps feet cool and reduces sweat build-up, reducing the risk of slipping inside the shoe.
They also have durable leather overlays that provide additional stability, particularly around the midfoot. This added support benefits roofers who need reliable footwear to prevent foot fatigue and maintain balance on inclined surfaces.
Get Under Armour Charged Assert shoes on Amazon.
Choosing Between the Under Armour Charged Bandit and Charged Assert Shoes
While both shoes offer excellent features, the choice between the Charged Bandit and Charged Assert for roofing work may come down to specific needs:
- Charged Bandit: Best for those who want a versatile, high-performance shoe with superior flexibility and traction for various roofing conditions.
- Charged Assert: Ideal for roofers seeking a more supportive, stable shoe at a lower price point, with sufficient breathability and cushioning for daily roofing tasks.
Ultimately, both the Charged Bandit and Charged Assert can be effective for roofing. The Bandit’s enhanced traction and flexibility may provide an edge in more challenging roofing environments, while the Assert’s stability and affordability make it a practical choice for consistent daily use.
Danner Trail 2650 Hiking Shoes
Hiking shoes are designed to secure your footing on uneven surfaces, and roofs certainly fall into that category.
The Danner Trail 2650 hiking shoe is lightweight, breathable, and comfortable. The midsole has cushioning for better weight distribution and overall feel. The Megagrip technology outsole also grips well in dry and wet conditions, so you can roof even if the rooftop isn’t dry.
Get Danner Trail 2650 Hiking Shoes from Amazon.
Timberland PRO® Setra Comp-Toe Athletic Work Sneakers
Want roofing shoes, not boots, that will protect your toes? Timberland has athletic work sneakers that combine the best of both worlds.
These roof shoes have composite safety toes, TPU heel clips for better stability, and electrical protection. For those long days on the roof, these Timberland PRO® work sneakers are imbued with “Anti-Fatigue Technology” that absorbs shock and returns energy to keep you going all day.
Get Timberland PRO Setra Comp-Toe Athletic Work Sneakers from Amazon.
Do you like the Setra but wish it had more ankle protection? You’re in luck! Timberland also has the PRO Setra Mid that covers more of your heel and ankle than the original Setra.
12 Best Boots for Roofing
Boots are typically less flexible and heavier than roof shoes, but they offer more coverage and protection. If you’re after durability, quality, and superior foot safety, roofing boots are for you.
Cougar Paws Performer Boot
When you ask someone about the best roofing shoes, you’ll undoubtedly hear Cougar Paws. Cougar Paws are made by a roofer with the roof in mind. These heavy-duty boots emphasize traction and foot protection while you’re up on the rooftop. Many roofers like to use Cougar Paws on roofs with a pitch of 4/12 or higher.
While Cougar Paws does have three different boot styles, the Performer is the original, patented for its unique grip. The Performer roofing boot keeps your feet cool and comfortable.
Get Cougar Paws Performer Boots from Amazon.
Wolverine Overpass Carbonmax® 6” Work Boot
The Wolverine Overpass CarbonMAX® work boot offers stellar toe protection and shock prevention. This roofing shoe notably has a dual outsole, giving you double the grip you need to work on a roof.
This Wolverine boot for roofers also sticks out from the crowd with its waterproof capabilities. Some purchasers have even noted that they can wear the boot in standing water without their feet getting wet.
Get Wolverine Overpass CarbonMAX Work Boots from Amazon.
Wolverine Rev UltraSpring™ Durashocks® Vent CarbonMAX™ Work Boot
The Wolverine Rev UltraSpring Durashocks Vent CarbonMax work boot offers advanced comfort and support technology. Its UltraSpring cushioning system delivers superior energy return and shock absorption, reducing fatigue during long days on the roof.
The DuraShocks technology further enhances comfort with gel pads in the heel and forefoot.
The CarbonMax safety toe is light and comfortable while still providing protection.
The Rev UltraSpring boot also has a breathable mesh upper with a moisture-wicking lining, making it ideal for hot, sunny roofing days. The slip-resistant rubber outsole ensures stability and safety on various surfaces.
Get the Wolverine Rev UltraSpring boots on Amazon.
Choosing Between the Wolverine Overpass and Rev UltraSpring Boots
While both boots offer excellent features for roofing, one might be better for you than the other.
- The Wolverine Overpass emphasizes flexibility and waterproof protection, making it a great choice for diverse weather conditions.
- The Wolverine Rev Ultraspring, with its advanced cushioning and lightweight design, is ideal for those who prioritize comfort and reduced fatigue during long hours of roofing work.
Salomon X Ultra 4 Mid Gore-Tex Hiking Boot
Good roofing boots for men and women
Roofers will love how waterproof the Salomon X Ultra 4 Gore-Tex hiking boot is. This roofing shoe has a cord that you can use to tighten the boot for a tight fit, making it perfect for working on steep roofs. It also has anti-debris mesh to keep small pieces of asphalt shingle out of your shoe.
If you’d rather have a shorter shoe than a boot, Salomon can deliver on that too. You can get the X Ultra 4 Gore-Tex style in hiking shoes. And if you’re roofing in the snow, you can pick up a pair of Salomon X Ultra 4 Gore-Tex winter boots.
Get Salomon X Ultra 4 Mid Gore-Tex Hiking Boots from Amazon.
Merrell® Moab 3 Mid Hiking Boot
Good roofing boots for men and women
Built for rugged terrain, the Merrell® Moab 3 Mid hiking boot is durable and grippy. The soles are strong enough to keep you comfortable but don’t compress shingles when you stand on them. These roofing boots have a cushioned midsole for a more comfortable fit.
Additionally, you can find the right Merrell® Moab to fit your tastes with their choice of GORE-TEX®, waterproof, and wide-width styles.
Get Merrell Moab 3 Mid Hiking Boots from Amazon.
Red Wing Classic Moc Boot
The Red Wing Classic Moc boot looks impressive on or off the roof with a moccasin toe and a trendy leather exterior. The leather is incredibly durable but very comfortable, even when breaking them in.
Red Wing’s proprietary Traction Tred outsole provides superior grip for any roofing job. Its six-inch coverage also protects your ankles from workplace injuries.
Get Red Wing Classic Moc Boots from Amazon.
White’s Perry 6” Select Boot 
Another classy work boot, the Perry 6” Select boot looks nice while getting the job done. The crepe sole protects your feet from stray nails and keeps you comfortable for hours.
Although this sole can wear down quickly on steep slopes, this roofing boot is resoleable, so you can get back to it without buying a whole new pair.
Carhartt Waterproof 6” Moc Toe Wedge Boot
Good roofing shoes for men and women
The Carhartt Waterproof 6″ Moc Toe Wedge Boot is an excellent choice for roofing professionals seeking comfort, durability, and protection on the job site.
Constructed with premium waterproof leather, these boots ensure your feet stay dry even in wet conditions. The moc toe design offers a roomy fit, and the wedge sole provides excellent traction and stability on various roofing surfaces.
These boots feature a cushioned insole and a shock-absorbing midsole, helping reduce fatigue throughout the day. They also include a breathable, moisture-wicking lining to keep your feet comfortable and dry.
Get the Carhartt Moc Toe Wedge boots on Amazon.
Sureway 6” Steel-Toe Work Boots
The Sureway 6″ Steel-Toe Work Boots feature a premium full-grain leather upper that provides a perfect blend of strength and softness, ensuring long-lasting wear and resistance to cracking. The dual-density outsole offers excellent slip, oil, and abrasion resistance, crucial for maintaining stability and safety on slick roofs.
The steel toe cap provides protection against impacts and compression, meeting ASTM F2413-18 EH safety standards. These boots are also equipped with a shock-absorbing midsole, padded tongue, moisture-wicking lining, and Goodyear welt construction.
Get Sureway 6” Steel-Toe Boots on Amazon.
Irish Setter Ashby Work Boot
The Irish Setter Ashby work boot is ideal for roofing due to its durability and safety features. Made from premium full-grain leather, it offers long-lasting performance and water resistance. The heat-resistant rubber-EVA outsole withstands temperatures up to 475°F and provides excellent slip, oil, and abrasion resistance, essential for rooftop work.
Additionally, the boot includes a removable polyurethane insole and non-woven nylon lining for comfort. Its Goodyear welt construction ensures durability and allows for later resoling.
Get the Irish Setter Ashby boots on Amazon.
Vostey Hiking Boots
The Vostey hiking chukka boots are a versatile and stylish option for various outdoor activities, including roofing. These boots feature a water-resistant synthetic leather upper, providing durability and protection from the elements.
The padded collar ensures comfort and ankle support, which is crucial for working on sloped surfaces. The lightweight, non-slip rubber outsole offers excellent traction and stability for rooftop safety. Additionally, the wide fit and cushioned footbed enhance comfort for extended wear, making them a practical choice for roofers.
Get Vostey hiking boots on Amazon.
ROCKROOSTER Lumen Pull-on Work Boot
You want a roofing shoe that can do it all? The ROCKROOSTER Lumen Pull-on Work Boot is resistant to chemicals, oil, heat, acid, slips, and electrical shocks. This workhorse boot is also moisture-wicking to help regulate your temperature and keep you comfortable in all working conditions.
The ROCKROOSTER pull-on boot makes our list of best roofing shoes specifically for its Kevlar midsole that protects your feet from nails and other sharp objects.
Get ROCKROOSTER Lumen Pull-on work boots from Amazon.
Love the look of the Lumen but want even more protection for your feet? Check out the ROCKROOSTER Chelsea, which has the same style but features a 6” steel toe.
Women’s Roofing Shoes & Boots
As more women take to the rooftops, the demand for specialized gear, including roofing shoes and boots tailored specifically for women, has grown. These footwear options provide the perfect blend of safety, comfort, and style, ensuring that female roofers can perform their tasks with confidence and ease.
Women’s roofing shoes and boots are not just smaller versions of men’s gear; they’re engineered to meet female contractors’ unique anatomical and ergonomic needs.
In this section, we’ll explore the top women’s roofing shoes and boots.
Best Women's Roofing Shoes
Timberland PRO Women’s Powertrain Sport
The Timberland PRO Women’s Powertrain Sport Shoe is a top choice for lightweight performance and robust protection. It features an asymmetrical alloy safety toe and is designed to minimize static electricity hazards.
The proprietary polyurethane outsole, with Anti-Fatigue Technology, provides exceptional shock absorption, energy return, and resistance to heat, oil, slips, and abrasion.
Additional features include a fiberglass shank for structural support, a protective TPU toe overlay for enhanced durability, and antimicrobial treatment for odor control.
Get Timberland PRO Women’s Powertrain Sport Shoes on Amazon.
PUMA Safety Celerity
The PUMA Safety Celerity work shoe features a steel toe cap and TPU protection in the toe and heel areas, ensuring superior safety on the job. The fabric upper offers long-lasting comfort and breathability, while the functional lining keeps your feet dry and comfortable throughout the day.
The PUMA Safety Celerity shoe excels in durability and performance with its 572°F heat-resistant, oil and slip-resistant rubber outsole, and lightweight midsole for enhanced cushioning. The footbed and heel provide exceptional shock absorption and moisture-wicking properties.
With easy mobility and midsole protection, these women’s roofing shoes can handle the toughest work environments while keeping your feet comfortable and secure.
Get PUMA Safety Celerity steel-toe shoes on Amazon.
Best Women’s Work Boots
Caterpillar Footwear Echo Waterproof Steel-Toe Work Boot
The Cat Footwear Echo boot has a Goodyear welted forefoot and cemented heel that offers robust durability and athletic comfort.
These boots are waterproof and ensure electrical safety up to 600 volts in dry conditions. The steel toe meets ASTM F2413-18 standards, protecting against impact and compression.
For enhanced comfort, the Echo boot includes a Nylex sock liner to wick away moisture, a PU foam footbed, and a PVC midsole for cushioning and shock absorption. The slip-resistant rubber outsole offers excellent grip, ensuring a secure grip on low-traction roof surfaces.
Get Cat Footwear Echo boots from Amazon.
Steel Blue Southern Cross Boot
The Steel Blue Southern Cross boot is a top choice for female roofers. The low-cut scalloped collar and padded tongue ensure ease of movement, allowing for greater flexibility and comfort while working on rooftops.
The 200J ErgoDefender steel toe cap provides superior toe protection, while the durable TPU outsole resists heat up to 266ºF, ensuring safety on hot surfaces.
Additionally, the boot has a Trisole system, which cushions the feet, knees, hips, and lower back, reducing fatigue from long hours on the job.
Get Steel Blue Southern Cross boots from Amazon.
Wolverine Luton Waterproof Hiker
The Wolverine Luton Waterproof Hiker Boots feature a waterproof leather upper and a mesh lining that enhances breathability, even during long hours on the roof.
Thanks to their cushioned EVA midsole and removable footbed, Luton boots offer significant shock absorption and support. The high-traction rubber outsole provides excellent grip for sloped and slick roofs.
Lightweight yet robust, these boots can withstand the rigors of roofing work while staying comfy.
Get a pair of Wolverine Luton boots on Amazon.
Find the Best Roofing Shoes for You
When it comes to roofing shoes, you have options. Whether you like boots or a more athletic-looking shoe, you can find something comfortable and functional for your roofing work.
Our list isn’t all-inclusive—there are many other good roofing shoe brands out there. But we hope this list can help jumpstart your search for your next pair of roofing shoes.
What are your favorite roof shoes? Let us know in the comments below!
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