Are you (un)fortunate enough to be living or working in extremely cold areas? If yes, then your feet probably tend to walk over snowy paths and are acquainted with the cold. They’re also most likely desperate for some high-quality 1000 gram insulated work boots.
Winters in some areas can be very cruel. It’s one thing to sit in a big and comfy armchair, drinking hot chocolate and looking at the snow falling through your window while the fire is soothingly crinkling in the background.
But it’s a whole other thing to be outside, doing some heavy-duty work and being knee-deep in the snow. Yikes!
My mind goes straight to the feeling of hands red from freezing cold, and toes that are almost frozen in the boots (and they feel as if they would break if you accidentally hit your foot into something). As well as that annoying itchiness of the entire body because of the cold.
To ensure at least your toes are safe and feeling warm, this article brings you the 11 best 1000 gram insulated work boots which will be perfect even for the coldest winters. With these ones, you’ll be able to say, “Winter is coming.” and be ready for it.
In fact, you won’t have to wait for it to come to you. Armed with any pair of 1000 gram insulated work boots from this article, you’ll be able to go beyond the Wall and fight the Night King yourself (and that would still be a better ending than what we’ve actually GoT).
The science behind the insulation in boots
Since you’re searching for the best 1000 gram insulated work boots, you probably already know what insulation in boots means. But for those who accidentally stumbled upon this article, here’s some basic info that will explain everything you need to know.
Insulation in boots is a term used to describe the level of warmth your feet get while you walk, play, or work in low temperatures. Boot insulation is measured in grams and there are today many weights of insulation available on the market, which can significantly complicate the process of buying boots.
Depending on the different insulation weights, the boots can be good for mild temperatures to freezing cold. The insulation weights you’re most likely to stumble upon while buying winter boots are as follows:
- 200 grams – suited for cold temperatures and little to no activity, or for high activity levels in cold
- 400 grams – suited for cold temperatures and moderate activity
- 600 grams – suited for colder weather conditions and low activity levels
- 800 grams – suited for very cold weather and low activity levels
- 1000+ grams – suited for extreme cold and little activity
There are also different types of insulation, but the most popular ones are Thinsulate and Shearling.
Thinsulate is the most commonly used type of insulation for boots. It is extremely durable and doesn’t break down easily. Boots with Thinsulate insulation are not bulky or heavy, and they retain warmth even when the boots get wet.
Thinsulate is a type of synthetic insulation, and its principle of work is trapping air molecules within microfiber. By doing so, the insulation blocks the cold outside air from entering. And it also prevents the created heat from escaping.
Other synthetic types of insulation include HeatSeeker, Zylet, OptiWarm, and Primaloft.
Shearling insulation is that soft and fine fleece one some people simply adore. It makes the boots even more comfortable than they already are, and it keeps the feet warm even in extremely cold conditions.
However, the boots with Shearling insulation are meant for everyday wear and not for rough, outdoor work. Therefore, winter work boots usually have Thinsulate insulation.
What are the 11 best 1000 gram insulated work boots?
Now that we’ve established what insulation in boots is, how it is measured and what types of insulation there are, we can move on and see what are the 11 best 1000 gram insulated work boots.
Hopefully, you’ll find the pair that you like and that works best for you and your lifestyle. If not, then after you go through the selected pairs, you’ll be able to read about some of the most desirable qualities of 1000 gram insulated work boots. So, you’ll know precisely what to look for while purchasing.
Without further ado, let’s jump on the list!
1. Carhartt Waterproof 1000 LiteFire Insulated PAC Work Boots
At number one, we have this Carhartt model of work boots designed for some of the meanest and coldest winters. This brown/black great model features 1000 gram LiteFire insulation and Storm Defender breathable and waterproof membrane technology.
These boots are made of extremely rugged, oil-tanned leather which is abrasion resistant. Their PU-coated leather uppers ensure supreme protection. The shaft is approximately 10″ high and the average weight per pair is 5 lbs.
The heel guards of these boots are made from TPU and have Achilles flex joints. Along with composite (non-metallic) safety toe, these features boost protection at the front and rear and increase heel stability.
These boots also have OrthoLite cushioned insoles which, along with the previously mentioned boots’ TPU arch support and removable, custom-fit EVA inserts, provide extra comfort and all-day-long support.
You won’t be making any mistakes if you decide to get these boots. With these ones, your feet will be both safe and warm. What more can you wish for?
2. Georgia Boot Arctic Waterproof 1000 Gram Insulated Work Boots
Georgia Boots are actually owned by Rocky Brands, a brand that produces its own shoes and whose boots we’ll also include in this article.
What makes these Georgia boots a great option is the fact that they were specifically designed to be winter work boots. A perfect pair for a hard worker like yourself!
These boots feature 1000 gram Thinsulate insulation and Georgia Boot’s Arctic Toe Technology which ensure your feet and toes are extra warm during long winters. They have removable cushioned PU inserts, so the cleaning process is more than easy.
Made out of waterproof materials, these boots will make sure no moisture breaks in. No room for floods with these ones!
This model here is a plain-toe one, but if you wish to have a steel-toe boot in your closet, these Georgia boots have that design too.
3. Irish Setter Elk Tracker 1000 Gram Insulated Work Boots
The Irish Setter is a brand that has been designing premium outdoor boots and work boots for more than 70 years. Their Elk Tracker model is a heavy-duty work boot made for hunting, and I’m sure you’ll fall in love with them.
With a full-grain, waterproof leather upper and a kiltie overlay at the toe box along with logo plaques at the shaft, these lace-up hunting boots are the perfect addition to any wardrobe.
Thanks to the Gore-Tex linings and 1000 gram Thinsulate, these boots are completely waterproof and well-insulated. They feature the memory foam EVA insole and ScentBan odor inhibitor which ensure your feet stay comfy and odorless. No stinky feet allowed with these babies!
These boots have Bulls-Eye Air Bob Aggressive rubber outsoles with multi-directional lugs which provide premium footing, traction, and balance.
No wonder these Irish Setter Elk Trackers are considered to be one of the best 1000 gram insulated work boots on the market!
4. Kenetrek Men’s Mountain Extreme 1000 Gram Insulated Work Boots
This brand is known for producing great mountain, gaming, and outdoor work boots and for prioritizing quality and durability. And this model is the epitome of their policy!
Made out of 100% full-grain leather, these hunting boots have 10″ tall uppers and are double and triple-stitched throughout for added durability. Their custom K-Talon outsoles provide amazing grip and traction and their midsoles ensure great foundation and added support and stability.
These boots feature a durable Windtex waterproof membrane and 1000 gram Thinsulate insulation, ensuring the feet stay warm and dry even in the coldest conditions. Their hardware is specifically designed to prevent corrosion and swivel to avoid breaking.
They also feature protective, rubber toe caps which ensure additional abrasion resistance.
5. Kenetrek Women’s Mountain Extreme 1000 Gram Insulated Work Boots
This remarkable model of work boots also comes in a female version for all those fearless ladies!
For the most part, Kenetrek Women’s Mountain Extreme Boots share the same features as the male version. They are also made out of 100% full grain leather and have a durable Windtex waterproof membrane and 1000 gram Thinsulate insulation.
The only difference really is that the uppers of this female model are 8″ tall and that generally, this version features a slightly trimmed design and narrow heels. These features are crucial, so the boot can properly fit women’s feet.
Many people wanted to have their perfect pair of work boots in the female version. Who knows, maybe they were tired of their significant others stealing their favorite booties. Or maybe women wanted to prove that men aren’t the only ones who can go hunting and hiking.
With these ones, women are truly invincible! All that’s left to do now is to ask the crucial, Beyonce-esque question: “Who run the world?!”
6. LaCrosse Men’s Windrose 1000 Gram Thinsulate Boots
Another great hunting boot on the menu. I’m all here for it!
These LaCrosse Men’s Windrose Boots are made out of nubuck leather and abrasion-resistant material which, when combined, ensure longevity and durability. They are super lightweight and have a comfortable platform underfoot which provides an athletic feel.
Thanks to their Dry-Core lining and Thinsulate Ultra Insulation, these boots are completely waterproof and extremely warm, which makes them perfect for late-season hunts. These boots also feature a DuraFit heel cup which wraps the heel in a rubber shell, ensuring support and stability on uneven terrain.
These Lacrosse Windorse Boots are said to be best for turkey hunting. With these boots, you can brag on your Thanksgiving dinner about how that delicious roasted turkey on the table was hunted by non-other than you.
7. Danner Men’s Alsea 8″ Gore-Tex 600 Gram Insulated Work Boots
These Danner Boots are named after the Alsea hunting unit located in Oregon. This unit covers various wild territories, from mountains and valleys to rivers and oceans. Therefore, we can only conclude that these boots were designed for success across all terrain!
Made out of strong leather and durable textiles, these boots can survive any conditions. They are lined with GORE-TEX materials which makes these boots extremely waterproof – no mud, water, or ice can get in and cause damage with these ones.
Unlike many boots we’ve mentioned, these ones are insulated with Primaloft insulation, which as mentioned at the beginning, is another type of synthetic insulation.
These boots feature a speed hook lacing system for a customizable and secure fit. They also feature Danner Plyolite EVA midsoles which ensure lasting support and Danner Alsea outsoles for exceptional grip and traction in uneven terrain.
These Danner Alseas will undoubtedly make a great addition to your hunting gear.
8. RefrigiWear Men’s Platinum Leather 1000 Gram Insulated Work Boots
From day one, this brand’s aim was to produce high-quality gear suitable for rough terrain and cold weather. And these boots make no exception to the rule!
This traditional style bootie features 1000 grams of Thinsulate Ultra insulation, a CSA/ASTM composite safety toe, and a puncture plate. These features make this model of boots perfect for heavy-duty jobs in extremely cold conditions.
They are made out of leather, with Goodyear welt construction, and have a rubber toe guard. They also have Vibram Montana outsoles with Ice Trek which offer slip protection and amazing traction. These boots are, of course, waterproof.
To ensure maximum comfort and shock absorption, these boots also have a VitaComfort pad system which provides needed relief from foot fatigue and pain. With these boots on, you’ll be able to work all day and feel comfy, warm, and safe.
9. ROCKY BearClaw 3D GORE-TEX 1000 Gram Insulated Hunting Boots
These Rocky BearClaw boots are good for both outdoor recreation and work. Made out of 100% full-grain leather and Cordura nylon, they feature waterproof and breathable Gore-Tex Construction and 1000 grams of Thinsulate Insulation. Perfect booties for winter, am I right?!
They come in a lace-to-toe design which provides maximum adjustability – depending on your preferences, you can make them either thigh or loose. They are approximately calf-high from the arch (so 9 inches tall) and their platform measures around 0.7 inches.
They have a removable brush guard kiltie, Rocky Air-Port cushion footbed, and rubber soles. No matter where you wear them, for work or for a walk, these extremely comfortable and slip-resistant boots can become your new go-to winter boots.
10. Thorogood Crosstrex Series 1000 Gram Insulated Waterproof Hiker Boots
Thorogood shoes are made by Weinbrenner Shoe Co., an American company that manufactures high-quality shoes for more than 200 years.
This model of winter boots is made out of durable full-grain leather and mesh and features a Mossy Oak Break-Up Country camo. This makes these boots extremely lightweight and comfortable to wear, but tough and durable enough to handle rough terrain and challenging jobs.
They have slip-resistant Corsstrex 360 outsoles which ensure flexibility and traction. With 1000 gram Thinsulate insulation, these boots retain heat and are therefore suitable for extremely cold weather.
Under the heel and ball strike zones, these boots feature removable single-density comfort insoles woven with polyurethane to absorb impacts and wick away moisture.
Trust me, you won’t be making a mistake if you decide to opt for these boots. They truly are an incredible pair of winter work boots!
11. Danner Men’s Powderhorn Insulated 1000 Gram Hunting Boots
Another Danner boots model worth mentioning. This says a lot about the quality of the brand, right?
These boots are made out of 100% full-grain leather and feature GORE-TEX waterproof breathable lining and Thinsulate Ultra Insulation. This is another pair of winter boots that will ensure your feet are dry and warm throughout the entire wear.
To keep your feet comfortable even after long days in the field, these boots are lined with foam panels in precise areas. They feature an open-cell, OrthoLite footbed and multi-density foam patterning which eliminate hotspots and pinch points.
These boots also have a Bi-Fit stability board for underfoot comfort and their outsoles provide great traction in various terrains and different kinds of weather conditions.
What’s amazing about these boots is that they have a handcrafted and stitch-down construction which ensures strength and stability. And makes them a tad bit more special.
What are the qualities of the best 1000 gram insulated work boots?
There’s no need for you to worry if, for whatever reason, you did not like any of the 1000 gram insulated work boots abovementioned.
This list above probably helped you in some ways, maybe by narrowing down the many options you have to only 11 pairs of boots, but it’s still valid to dislike them and desire something else.
As I said, you don’t have to worry. It’s not like you’re going to end up without your winter work boots. I guarantee, with this article you’ll find the pair you like, and your feet will be thankful.
“How am I going to find the perfect winter boots on my own?!” might be your question now. And the answer is by learning what are the most important features a proper pair of 1000 gram insulated work boots needs to have.
Below, I’ve listed some important features you should look for in your next winter boots shopping spree. With these in mind, you’ll surely buy the boots you need so you could live your best polar bear life.
1. Breathability and lightweight
A well-insulated winter work boots will keep your feet warm, but a feature that’s also important to look for is breathability. I’m sure you don’t wish to have your feet sweating while you’re in the middle of work, right?
You’ll need a pair of good work boots, with plenty of airflow, so a balanced temperature inside can be maintained.
Also, boots that are well-insulated are usually too big and too bulky. So, it’s also important to look for boots that feel lightweight, so you could do your job without any hindrance. Boots that feel light on your feet will ensure you are comfortable throughout the day.
2. Cushioning and shock absorption
Working in cold conditions often means walking or standing on hard surfaces. This leaves your feet sore and your whole body in pain.
A good pair of work boots has to be well cushioned and shock absorbent. With these kinds of boots, you’ll surely avoid unnecessary foot pains and lower the risk of any potential ankle spraining or twisting.
3. Good waterproofing
Yup, that’s right! Not all work boots are waterproof. But a nice pair of winter work boots should be, really.
With waterproof winter work boots, you’ll ensure your feet stay dry with no liquid breaking in. Nobody has time to worry about wet feet while working in hard and cold conditions. Good waterproofing is a must!
4. Enough height
It’s important that your boots are well-insulated and waterproof, so your feet remain warm and dry. But what if you’re walking in deep snow, for example? Those situations, apart from demanding good pair of waterproof work pants, also require work boots that are tall enough.
Boots that are not tall enough can let the rain or the snow inside. So, no matter how insulated or waterproof they are, if there’s room at the top of the shaft, you can bet the water will seep in.
Therefore, work boots with enough height are your top priority!
5. Slip-resistant outsoles
A good pair of winter work boots has to have slip-resistant outsoles. When you’re working in cold conditions, you’re often met with slippery surfaces caused by rain, snow, mud, and ice. It’s important to have good slip and oil-resistant boots to prevent falling and any possible injuries.
Work boots with slip-resistant outsoles will give you enough grip and traction, so you’ll be safe and stable on the ground.
Final thoughts
I hope you managed to find the perfect 1000 gram insulated work boots for you. The options that this article offered are very versatile, and there’s surely something for everyone.
However, if none of the pairs of boots suited your fancy, I hope you checked out some of the important features well-insulated boots have to have, so you can know what to look for when buying.
