Best metatarsal guard work boots: internal and external met guards

What the listing offers

• The listing states the full rating set: ASTM F2413 I/75, C/75, Mt/75 and EH, so the met protection is clearly spelled out.
• Heat resistant rubber outsole rated up to 572 F per the listing, useful near hot floors and slag.
• Asymmetrical steel toe gives a roomier toe box, and KEEN.Dry membrane keeps the boot waterproof.

Limits to know

• Steel toe and 6 in. shaft only; there is no taller or composite option in this listing.
• The listing does not describe the shank, so check it if you stand on ladder rungs all day.

What the listing offers

• The listing states ASTM F2413 M/I/C, Mt, PR and EH, one of the most complete rating sets in this guide.
• Also certified to CSA Z195-14 with Grade 1 toe, sole, metatarsal and ESR protection.
• Non-metallic composite toe keeps weight down compared with steel.

Limits to know

• The listing does not say whether the met guard is internal or external.
• Shaft height is not stated, and it is one of the pricier picks here.

What the listing offers

• Heat resisting Vibram outsole is listed specifically for hot surfaces, which suits foundry and mill floors.
• Internal metatarsal guard plus a steel toe tested to ASTM F2413-18 impact and compression standards.
• Electrical hazard rated with a steel shank for support, and a memory foam cushion insole.

Limits to know

• The listing does not state an Mt rating number for the met guard, so confirm it meets your site rule.
• Waterproofing is not mentioned, so plan on a leather treatment in wet plants.

What the listing offers

• Internal met guard is described as ASTM/CSA certified, flexible, and hardening on impact.
• Carbon fiber toe is listed as 15% lighter than steel and meets ASTM F2413 I/75, C/75 EH.
• 360 degree Goodyear welt and a KEEN.ToughSole outsole point to a long service life.

Limits to know

• At $240 it costs more than the Louisville, which states a numbered Mt/75 rating.
• The listing does not mention heat resistance for the outsole, which matters near furnaces.

What the listing offers

• Met guard meets ASTM F2413-18 and CAN/CSA-Z195-14 metatarsal impact standards, per the listing.
• Alloy toe is lighter than steel and meets ASTM I and C plus CSA Grade 1.
• Anti-Fatigue Technology footbed and a waterproof membrane for long, wet shifts.

Limits to know

• EH protection is not listed, so look elsewhere if your site requires it.
• The polyurethane outsole is not described as heat resistant.

What the listing offers

• Wide toe construction is called out in the listing, useful for feet that find most met boots tight.
• Heat resistant outsole and a steel shank support stable footing on hot, rough floors.
• EH rated for secondary protection around live circuits.

Limits to know

• No Mt rating number is stated, so confirm it meets your employer's requirement.
• The listing says nothing about waterproofing or lining.

What the listing offers

• Hinged external ABS guard is described as comfortable even when squatting.
• Electrical hazard protection and an asymmetrical steel safety toe are listed.
• Waterproof MetGuard flap covers the lace front.

Limits to know

• The listing gives no ASTM numbers for the toe or met guard, so verify the Mt marking.
• Only four short bullets, so details like footbed and outsole compound are not stated.

What the listing offers

• ASTM F2413-11 Mt 75 metatarsal protection is stated in the listing.
• Oil and slip resistant Duratread outsole for floors with oil or residue.
• 4LR footbed technology is listed for cushioning and stability.

Limits to know

• EH protection and waterproofing are not stated in this listing.
• The western build and mesh lining may not suit hot metal or wet process areas.