Originally born as a tractor company, Caterpillar was founded in 1925 by two competitors C.L. and Benjamin Holt. Years later, they launched their first pair of work boots, promoting honest work, integrity, and strength - values CAT still honors today. That said, Caterpillar boots are some of the best work boots due to the high-quality materials and excellent craftsmanship infused into their designs.
CAT has something for every hard worker out there - from steel toe to waterproof to lightweight to insulated boots. Check some of their protective and comfort features below to help you decide which pair is right for you.
CAT Boots Safety Features
A pair of reliable work boots are essential for any heavy-duty job in any industry, and their safety features are arguably the most important factor you need to consider when shopping for new ones.
Reinforced Toe Box
The reinforced toe box of Caterpillar work boots comes in three designs: steel toe, composite toe, and alloy toe.
Steel toe: The oldest and toughest reinforced toe box design offers the ultimate level of protection for your toes. While adding a fair amount of weight to the boot, steel is the hardest material used in the production of reinforced toe boxes and will protect your feet from all types of crushing and cutting hazards. However, it may not be the perfect option for working in an environment where freezing temperatures are an issue, or at a workplace where employees are scanned for metal objects.
Composite toe: The non-metal materials used in the production of composite toe boots, such as kevlar, fiberglass, and carbon fiber, are both light and sturdy enough to meet all safety standards without adding significant weight to the boot. Since it does not transmit heat or cold, the composite toe is ideal for environments where your feet are exposed to extreme temperatures.
Alloy toe: The alloy toe, as the name suggests, is made of metal alloys, primarily aluminum and titanium, which are lighter than steel, while offering similar protection. While the issue of heat and cold transmission is still present, this reinforced toe box type aims to provide the wearer with both mobility and all the protection they need.
The Metguard
The metatarsal guard is an additional protective layer that covers the top of the foot and protects the metatarsal bones from injury. It is made of light materials resistant to both impact and chemicals. If you need a boot that will provide your feet with all-around protection against impact and crushing injuries, a met-guard is worth considering.
Insulation
Insulated boots will keep your feet warm, and CAT makes some of the best insulated boots to keep you performing at your best even when temperatures drop. Insulation comes in different degrees to suit different levels of cold.
Note that the thicker the insulation, the warmer and heavier the boots, meaning you’ll have to sacrifice some mobility when wearing extra-warm boots. That said, thinner insulation offers a lot of mobility, but you shouldn’t wear them in freezing weather conditions.
Waterproofness
Besides insulation and safety toe caps, CAT boots often offer waterproofness or at least weather resistance. The difference between the two is that waterproof boots will completely repel water for prolonged periods, while water-resistant ones will protect you from occasional splash and rain.
That said, choose your degree of water resistance according to your daily activities, work conditions, and weather.
Comfort
Although comfort isn’t exactly a safety feature, it does keep you comfortable, preventing fatigue and pain, so we might as well list it under safety features. Caterpillar boots are famous for delivering outstanding comfort, and that’s why so many workers worldwide swear by them.
How Are Caterpillar Boots Made?
CAT used different technologies when making their boots. Their Ease technology offers you extra comfort by using a foam midsole lighter and more shock-absorbing than EVA. Another technology, FlexFwd, offers a custom footbed with a cork blend and foam for lightness, cushion, and more abrasion resistance than rubber.
Ergo technology provides outstanding grip, utmost comfort, and lasting durability, whereas Flexion adjusts to your body with added flexibility.
Where Are Caterpillar Boots Made?
Wolverine Worldwide makes Caterpillar boots, and many of their models are made in the USA, such as the Liberty work boots. That said, there are more than 60 manufacturing plants in the US alone. Currently, Caterpillar footwear is distributed in roughly 140 countries, introducing around 800 new products each year.
In addition, Caterpillar does business in Asian countries, including India, Malaysia, and Indonesia, whether for production, research and innovation, or services.
Are Caterpillar Boots any Good?
Not just good, but some of the best work footwear you can buy. Caterpillar boots and shoes are tough and comfortable and come in different designs and with a variety of safety features, to meet the requirements of any industry and environment. If you're looking for good work boots, CAT boots will not disappoint.
Are Caterpillar Boots Fashionable?
Yes. Caterpillar boots are made with a dedication to functionality without neglecting style. Our CAT collection includes both men’s and women’s boots and shoes you are going to love wearing both for their performance and their look.
Are Caterpillar Boots Expensive?
Caterpillar boots are fairly priced, with prices ranging from $70 to $200. With such a wide range of prices, designs, and safety features, you can always find something that will suit you.
And Caterpillar boots are more than worth their price as they last, are versatile, and comfortable, all while looking incredibly stylish.
Get Your Pair of CAT Boots
Renowned for their rugged style, CAT boots are an excellent choice for various professions. That said, all the latest materials, technologies, and features have been incorporated where needed to make some of the best work boots in the industry.
If you want to own a pair of these incredible boots, browse our collection and find what suits you. Again, your safety should be your top priority when it comes to choosing work boots, so make sure to pick ones with all the safety and comfort features you need.
