Steel Toed Skate Shoes

When looking for the safety and durability of a steel toed shoe, you don't necessarily have to suffer in terms of style. There are more options available in this type of footwear today, including skate shoes, making it possible to get cool styles along with safety features you need.

Steel Toed Skate Shoes for Men

Men can find low and high options in this type of shoe, all with dependable safety features and comfort, too.

Caterpillar Men's Brode

The Caterpillar Men's Brode steel toe skate shoe comes in a cool leather style with a rubber sole, nylon mesh lining and molded EVA sock liner. In addition to the steel toe, the outsole is also slip resistant for extra safety. This shoe comes in either black with red laces or a deep grey with yellow laces. In either color combination, the laces add a great contrasting touch, and the ankle-high design offers extra ankle support.

You can get these in men's sizes 7 through 14, including wide versions. Prices vary depending on the size and width, but you can find most for $100 or less. Caterpillar is known as a top brand, but you may want to consider what reviewers have to say. Although these get solid ratings at Walmart, there are some pros and cons to consider.

Pros:

• Reviewers appreciate the lightweight feel, flexible style, and good-looking design.

• People from a variety of industries agree that these are tough and durable.

• Many customers felt these were very comfortable, with some comparing them to their favorite athletic shoes.

Cons:

• Some people felt the slip resistance could be better.

• These tend to run narrow, and some people felt they ran small, so it may be worthwhile to consider ordering a size up.

• Poor breathability could be a concern compared to similar shoes made from non-leather material.

Reebok Sublite

Another option is the men's Sublite from Reebok available from Walmart. A lower ankle design offers a different style for those who don't prefer higher shoes, and the black suede and sleek profile give them a great look. In addition to meeting ASTM F2413-05 safety standards, they are also oil- and slip-resistant, have a cushioned insert and sponge heel for comfort, and are designed with materials to keep moisture at bay.

Find these in men's sizes 7.5 through 14 (also available in wide for many sizes) for about $100. According to reviews at Walmart, these are well-built and protective overall.

Pros:

• These shoes get top marks for comfort, style, and being lightweight.

• These are good for all day wear and multiple work (and play) conditions.

• This style offers a good value for the price.

Cons:

• These may wear out quickly, especially under heavy use.

• According to some reviewers, this style may run a bit wide.

Iron Age Board Rage

Another cool style, the Iron Age Board Rage steel toed shoe is done in a skate style and is designed for safety. With a steel toe and features designed to resist slick surfaces, these Iron Age skate oxfords are made tough against electrical hazards and abrasion. These come in men's sizes 6.5 though 13 (with just a few wide widths available) for about $65.

Done in either brown or black leather with matching laces, the Board Rage is a great low style that's casual with strong safety features underneath the oxford skate exterior.

Pros:

• These are on the more affordable end of the price spectrum.

• They're available in brown, a bonus for the man who prefers something besides black.

• Comfort and style don't make it immediately obvious it's a steel toe shoe.

Cons:

• These are labeled tough, but not toughest, against heat.

• Like other leather styles, these may not be the best in terms of breathability.

• The white contrast sole offers a traditional skate look, but it could get dirty quickly in some work environments.

Options for Women

Women looking for an extra dose of style when it comes to safety footwear can find a few choices in skate shoes with steel toes as well.

Caterpillar Brode for Women

Unlike the men's version, the Women's Caterpillar Brode comes in a low style and is designed in an attractive dark and light grey with turquoise accents for a bright touch. Industry rated against impact and compression as well as safe against electrical hazards and made with a slip-resistant grip, this shoe style offers total safety as well as style.

Added shock absorption and cushioning make for a comfortable fit. You can find it in women's sizes 5 through 11 in medium and wide widths for about $70.

Pros:

• Caterpillar is a very trusted brand in the industry.

• According to most reviewers, these held up well and were good in terms of comfort.

• The neutral look can go with almost any outfit.

Cons:

• Some reviewers felt these ran on the narrow side.

• The dye from the shoe's coloring may leach off onto socks or clothing.

Reebok Women's Reval

Done in black with dark gray contrasting panels and a dark sole, the Reebok Women's Reval is a simple and understated skate style in leather and suede that can go with just about anything. Along with an industry standard steel toe and slip-resistant construction, it is safe from electrical hazards and has a moisture-wicking nylon mesh interior.

Additionally, it's created with an exclusive MemoryTech Massage footbed for extra all-day comfort. It's also abrasion resistant. You can find this one in women's sizes 6 through 12, with wide-widths included for most. Retail price is just over $100.

Pros:

• The dark color isn't likely to show dirt or debris as quickly.

• The neutral and simple design means virtually anyone can wear it.

• The removable footbed can be replaced with a different one if you prefer.

Cons:

• The heat resistance could be better.

• Pricing is not as affordable as some other styles.

Mellow Walk Jessica Slip-On

Ideal for women who prefer a slip-on shoe, the Mellow Walk Jessica is designed in a stylish black leather with a white skate sole and contrasting cement-locked stitching. In addition to the steel toe for safety, you also get a removable DreamFit comfort liner and moisture-wicking lining. It has a non-marking outsole with a rubber grip. You can find these in sizes 5E through 9E for about $115.

Pros:

• These are good for the woman who likes the comfort and ease of a slip-on shoe.

• They offer a sleek skater style.

• The steel toe is well hidden.

Cons:

• They are only available in E sizes, so they won't work for narrow feet.

• Pricing is on the higher end of the spectrum.

• The lack of laces mean they can't be adjusted.

Cool Choices in Safety Footwear

For guys as well as ladies, it can feel good to wear a pair of great-looking shoes when you need the extra protection of a steel toe. Though skate styles aren't as abundant as standard work boots or even athletic steel toed shoes, you do have some options from trusted brands to help you find the right footwear for the job.