Timberland is one of the most iconic brands and manufacturers of rugged outdoors and work boots. The default silhouette for modern work boots can be traced back to the 1973 “Yellow Boot” that would become Timberland’s flagship shoe.

But is a Timberland boot actually suitable for real work?

The short answer: yes.

The longer answer will break down into three key components:

• Differences between Timberland’s regular line and their premium “PRO” line of boots
• Key Features of the Timberland PRO work boot line and four PRO models that are ideal for work
• A brief look at how non-PRO Timberland boots can be used for work, with one example

Timberland vs Timberland PRO: A Brief History

Timberland boots aren’t just for work. The company’s story began in 1952, when its founder Nathan Shwartz purchased interest in a general shoe manufacturing company. Then, 16 years later, the family would introduce its waterproofing technology. So, if you’re wondering “are Timberlands waterproof,” the short answer is yes. This set the stage for 1973’s Yellow Boot with waterproof leather that would dominate professional and outdoor footwear for years to come.

In 1999, Timberland launched its PRO line of shoes, which was dedicated to maximizing performance and longevity while minimizing weight. When shopping around for work boots, Timberland PRO models are among the absolute best when it comes to a waterproof work boot. Let’s take a look at how and why.

Timberland PRO: Professional Grade Work Boots

Timberland PRO work boots are designed to be exactly what their name implies: work boots for professionals who need the highest standard of performance day in and day out. They’re made from the best materials of any Timberland boots and sport many safety shoe features, such as:

• Waterproofing for work outdoors and in wet environments, such as plumbing or sewers
• Rubber outsole with non-slip technology and padded collar for ankle support
• Insulation, heat protection, and static dissipation for protection from all other elements
• Electrical hazard protection to safeguard against shocks for electricians and allied trades
• Anti-fatigue technology to facilitate standing, climbing, walking, and all daily motions
• Safety toe, puncture resistance, and metatarsal plates to protect against impacts

With these and other features, Timberland PRO boots are designed to meet the standards of a wide range of professional trades and crafts. For example, workers in construction and related fields, hospitality, and manufacturing can all benefit from wearing a pair of Timberland PROs.

Timberland Non-PRO: Rugged Work and Lifestyle Boots

Even regular (non-PRO) Timberland boots often feature many of the same safety measures. However, Timberland carefully acknowledges that while these boots may be suitable for a given personal or professional labor task, they are better designed for everyday casual wear.

This does mean a downgrade in terms of boot performance.

For example, consider the waterproofing feature on PRO vs non-PRO Timberland boots. Most Timberland models carry some degree of water resistance, but Timberland PRO models almost all guarantee specific levels of waterproofing, moving beyond mere resistance into repellency.

For these reasons, you can use non-PRO models for work but should ideally opt for PRO Timbs.

Regardless of the model you pick, knowing how to clean Timberland boots is key to maintaining the longevity of your shoes.

Features and Models of Timberland PRO Boots

One of the biggest and most important advantages of Timberland PRO boots for work is their form factor. Timberland PRO models all deliver top-of-the-line protective features based on your specific needs. And they do so without compromising comfort.

PRO models are a comfortable work boot designed to be as light as possible, using materials like thermoplastic urethane (TPU) and moisture-channeling mesh.

Whether you need the protection of a steel toe or composite toe boot, electrical hazard protection, or are searching for insulated boots that have waterproof leather, Timberland PRO models cover the entire spectrum of safety boots.

Let’s take a look at four distinct models of PRO work boots that can be used across a wide range of trades and professions.

Work Model #1: Timberland PRO Direct Attach

An updated classic, the Timberland PRO Direct Attach line of workboots is a modern version of the classic “Yellow Boot” silhouette, complete with a customizable suite of safety features. The boot comes in leather and nubuck finishes in a variety of colors and finishes, with steel safety toe options as well as soft toe boot options to further optimize flexibility.

All Direct Attach models offer:

• Waterproofing and antimicrobial dry linings that can both repel water and resist sweat
• Over 200 grams of Thermolite insulation for climate control without additional weight
• Heat, oil, and slip-resistant soles, standard on all PRO models unless marked otherwise
• Electrical Hazard Protection

These features make the Direct Attach a standard, default work boot for nearly all professionals.

Note: The Direct Attach boots can fit a little small in the toes. Sometimes people need to go up a ½ size.

Work Model #2: Timberland PRO Pit Boss

Consistently ranked as one of the best construction boots, the pit boss is a water resistant boot that offers traditional features for work boots like a non-slip rubber sole or and leather upper, but with other distinguishing factors.

For workers seeking a more protective model with the same basic silhouette, the Timberland PRO Pit Boss line of boots offers a more compact form factor with reinforced seams throughout and the same basic suite of protective features, plus others not available on the Direct Attaches.

For example, the Pit Boss sports a patented 24/7 Comfort Suspension technology that cushions every step you take throughout the course of the workday. All models feature Goodyear welt construction to guarantee the longevity of the sole. The Good Year Welt also helps to maintain the fit, support, torsion rigidity and construction integrity of the shoe. They are also available as a soft or steel toe boot.

The most important distinguishing feature of the Pit Boss, aside from its highly visible exterior reinforcement, is an internal nylon diffusion plate that dissipates force to optimize stability.

Work Model #3: Timberland PRO Boondock

Taking the external and internal reinforcement to a new level, the Timberland PRO Boondock line of boots offers optimal safety and security with a slightly bulkier form factor. However, the boots are not much heavier than the Pit Boss or Direct Attach Models, due to an innovative composite protective toe construction. The exaggerated soles offer greater protection than either model above, with large lugs designed for optimal traction regardless of your terrain.

These work safety boots feature innovative materials all throughout, from the aforementioned toe to the fiberglass shank and combination Goodyear welt and cement construction in the heel box.

They are ideal for professionals working in the most rugged terrains for the longest durations.

Note: The Boondock can fit at least a 1/2 size big and one width wider than the "average" fit.

Finally, a work boot that moves in a different direction style-wise without sacrificing anything in the way of protection is the Timberland PRO Barstow Wedge line. This boot sports a pared-down silhouette with clean lines leading down to a dual density sole. Its wedge style is designed to minimize tracks in mud while increasing shock absorption-perfect for the in or outdoors.

These work boots are unlined, increasing breathability and comfort, while sporting anti-fatigue technology that further maximizes all-day wearability. The wedge sole boasts the same oil, heat, and abrasion protection as the other models detailed above, and the work shoe is available with steel toes and shanks to maximize blunt force protection.

These are the perfect double-duty work boots for a full day of construction straight into a happy hour or barbecue right afterward.

Non-PRO Timberland Work Boot Use Cases

Not all work situations require boots designed for professional use, day in and day out. Many professionals also need boots to wear on their off days, and even those who aren’t craftsmen by trade can use a pair of boots to wear for the occasional project around the house.

Non-PRO Timbs are best used for amateur or non-professional work, including but not limited to the following:

• Home improvement projects or building of custom furniture in a basement or workshop
• Minor auto repairs or related mechanical work conducted in your own garage or driveway
• Moving, garbage removal, deliveries, and other short-term but labor-intensive projects

For these and other scenarios, non-PRO Timberland work boots provide a perfectly suitable and often more affordable option.

They’re also ideal for lifestyle activities or as a fashion statement.

Work Model #5: Timberland Mid Mt. Maddsen Mid

Often, boots optimized for outdoor lifestyle activities can work double duty as work boots. This is the case with the Mt. Maddsen line, such as the Mt. Maddsen Mid Waterproof Hiker. The boots sport complete waterproofing via Timberland’s “Timber Dry” Waterproof membrane, and a gusseted tongue works to keep out all other debris-dirt, pebbles, and sawdust.

This model also features anti-fatigue technology similar to what you’ll find in the PRO models detailed above, along with padding in the tongue and collar to keep the 6” boots comfortable throughout the hike or workday. As an added bonus, these boots also support environmental causes, with the membrane and other select portions made of up to 50% recycled materials.

Get Your Timberland Work Boots at Boot World

To return to the question above: Are Timberlands good work boots? Yes, absolutely! And this is especially the case with Timberland PRO boots.

Boot World carries all the Timberland and PRO models detailed above. You can even try on your boots before buying them at one of Boot World’s many locations if you are wondering, “how do Timberland Boots fit”? Boot World also carries a variety of other work and lifestyle boots from all your favorite brands. We’ve revolutionized the online footwear market with a wide range of boots, shoes, and accessories for men, women, and children.

Whether you need them for work, as a hiking boot, or anything else, pick up your next favorite pair of women’s Timberland boots or men’s Timberland PRO boots at Boot World.

Sources:

• MyWorkWear. Tips for Choosing Premium Work Boots.
  https://www.myworkwear.org/tips-for-choosing-work-boots/
• MyWorkWear. Top 15 Best Timberland Work Boots in 2021.
  https://www.myworkwear.org/best-timberland-work-boots/
• Timberland. Are Timberlands Work Boots?
  https://www.timberland.com/faq/are-timberlands-work-boots.html
• Timberland. How Our Timberland PRO Work Boots Are So Light.
  https://www.timberland.com/faq/how-timberland-pro-work-boots-are-so-light.html
• Timberland. Our Story.
  https://www.timberland.com/about-us/our-story.html
• Timberland. Secrets Of An Icon: The Original Yellow Boot.
  https://www.timberland.com/blog/archive/original-yellow-boot.html
• Timberland. What’s the Difference Between Timberland and Timberland PRO?
  https://www.timberland.com/faq/difference-between-timberland-and-pro.html

Reviewed By:

Ed Stone brings over 45 years of footwear knowledge and passion to his role as President of Boot World, a family-owned company and an industry leader in safety and occupational footwear. A second generation "shoe dog” Ed's footwear knowledge is unparalleled, serving as an informal advisor for some of the worlds largest footwear brands including Wolverine, Timberland PRO, and Reebok Works.

A lifelong Southern California resident, and ardent conservationist, Ed enjoys hiking and open water swimming.