Unlike regular shoes, roofing shoes are specially designed footwear that provides the grip, support, and durability needed to navigate rooftops safely and efficiently.
Built to handle steep angles, rough surfaces, and capricious weather conditions, roofing shoes are not a luxury, but a necessity. Wearing the right type of roofing shoes is important because it can protect you from slips, fatigue, and even serious injury.
So, to choose the best roofing shoes for your needs, you should consider key factors such as traction, material, ankle support, and weather resistance. The type of roofing surface, like shingles, metals, or tile, can also influence which shoe is most suitable for the job.
Here’s a quick overview of our best roofing shoes:
1. Cougar Paws Performer
Cougar Paws Performer are roofing shoes specifically designed with an adjustable strap that provides increased comfort and stability. These popular, heavy-duty roofing boots prioritize traction and foot protection.
While less flexible and heavier than other roofing shoes, the Cougar Paws are ideal to use on roofs with a pitch of 4/12 or higher.
Key features include:
Breathable inside boot lining
Vented exterior
Durable full-grain leather
Protective finish
The pros:
Reliable traction means less risk of slips and falls
Comfortable enough for extended periods on the roof
High-quality materials ensure durability even with heavy use
The cons:
Lack waterproofing
Ideal for: Professional roofers who need long-lasting roofing shoes without waterproofing.
Price: $219
2. Thorogood Crosstrex Waterproof Boots
Thorogood Crosstrex Waterproof Boots are slip-resistant work boots that combine waterproof protection with athletic-style comfort. The anti-slip outsole gives you confidence to work through poor weather and on difficult terrain.
Thorogood creates industry-leading footwear for the safety and comfort of its customers.
The Thorogood Crosstrex model includes lightweight black leather and mesh with a safety toe and comfort insole.
Key features include:
Crosstrex 360 outsole
Composite safety toe
Composite shank
Removable single-density polyurethane footbed
The pros:
You’ll be comfortable wearing these shoes even for longer periods
You get BBP waterproofing for rainy conditions
These boots have a slip-resistant outsole for increased safety
The cons:
May feel bulky to some users
Ideal for: Roofers who need reliable waterproofing and comfort.
Price: $110.00 – $115.00
3. KEEN Utility Flint II Low Steel Toe
KEEN Utility Flint II Low Steel Toe are hiking-inspired work shoes with left and right asymmetrical steel toes that offer maximum comfort and protection on the job.
The Utility Flint II model comes with a highly slip-resistant and waterproof rubber sole.
This electric shock–resistant footwear offers extra protection if the outsole accidentally contacts live electrical circuits.
Key features include:
KEEN.DRY waterproof, breathable membrane
Non-mutilating upper to avoid marking or scratching surfaces
Shellback heel support
External stability shank for midfoot support
The pros:
If you accidentally touch live electrical circuits, you have additional protection
Waterproof, breathable membrane
Oil and slip-resistant outsoles
The cons:
May not provide as much ankle support as higher-cut boots
Ideal for: Roofers looking for comfortable and safe footwear without ankle support
Price: $150
4. Merrell Moab 2 Mid Tactical Waterproof Boots
The MOAB 2 Mid Tactical Waterproof Boot is made from waterproof leather and textile upper with M-Select DRY™ to support roofers working in rainy conditions.
Its Kinetic Fit™ Elite footbed with added zonal arch support and heel cushioning improves comfort for extended wear.
Key features include:
Vibram® TC5+ outsole delivers traction on any surface
Waterproof leather and ripstop uppers for the toughest jobs
KINETIC FIT™ footbed with added zonal arch support and heel cushioning
The pros:
These boots keep your feet dry in case of rain
The zonal arch support and heel cushioning mean higher comfort
You’re safe to walk on various surfaces without slipping or falling
The cons:
No additional protection in case of contact with electric circuits
Ideal for: Roofers who require robust waterproofing and strong ankle support.
Price: $140
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5. Red Wing Heritage 6-Inch Moc Toe Boots
Red Wing Heritage 6-inch Moc Toe Boots are rugged, Goodyear-welted leather work boots featuring a moc toe and Traction Tred outsole for durability.
Moreover, the Red Wing Heritage 6-inch Moc Toe boot has durable leather and a comfortable cushioned footbed.
Its moc toe design provides extra room and flexibility, while the Goodyear welt construction ensures long-lasting durability.
Key features include:
Full-grain leather
Moc toe design
Goodyear welt construction
Traction outsole
The pros:
These boots are made of high-quality leather, which makes them durable
Due to its Goodyear welt construction, you’ll likely use this pair for many years
The cons:
No additional protection in case of electrical contact
Ideal for: Roofers who seek classic and durable work boots.
Price: $349.99
6. Salomon X Ultra 4 Mid GTX
Salomon X Ultra 4 Mid GTX are versatile, mid-height hiking boots with a waterproof Gore-Tex membrane and Contagrip MA rubber outsoles for superior traction on wet terrain.
They also have an advanced chassis, which provides added stability on slopes and reduces foot twisting, especially on angled surfaces or during prolonged wear.
Any roofer who works in rainy conditions will appreciate how waterproof the Salomon X Ultra 4 Mid GTX design is.
Key features include:
ADV-C Chassis for extra ankle support
Contagrip® MA outsole for more control
Soft, breathable lining
GORE-TEX waterproofing to keep feet dry
The pros:
With waterproof features, these boots protect your feet in case of rain
The Advanced Chassis™ feature means more support
You get more comfort and less fatigue with these lightweight boots
The cons:
These boots don’t have advanced insulation for extremely cold weather
Ideal for: If you’re looking for a lightweight, waterproof boot with advanced support, the Salomon X Ultra 4 Mid GTX is for you.
Price: $149 – $209.99
7. Danner Mountain 600 4.5” Hiking Boots
Danner Mountain 600 4.5” Hiking Boots are rugged, mid-cut hiking boots with full-grain leather tested for its strength and durability. They also incorporate breathable Gore-Tex that keeps water out and a triple-density OrthoLite ECO removable footbed for maximum cushioning and support.
These boots blend classic style with modern performance.
Key features include:
Full-grain leather upper
Danner Dry™ waterproofing
Vibram® Fuga outsole
Ortholite® footbed
Lightweight construction
The pros:
Made of full-grain leather, these boots will last and give you comfort
Danner Dry™ waterproofing
The cons:
You may need some time to get used to the feel of these boots
Ideal for: Roofers needing durable and waterproof boots.
Price: $229.95
8. Timberland PRO Boondock 6” Waterproof Comp-Toe Work Boots
Timberland PRO Boondock 6” Waterproof Comp-Toe Work Boots are heavy-duty, waterproof work boots engineered for extreme conditions. The composite toe adds additional abrasion resistance and impact protection, and the waterproof construction keeps users dry in moderate conditions.
These high-top boots combine advanced protection with comfort and warmth to meet a wide range of roofers' needs.
Key features include:
Premium waterproof leather with waterproof membrane
Asymmetrical composite safety toe
Goodyear welt plus cement construction
Electrical hazard protection
The pros:
The composite toe cap is lighter and non-metallic for greater comfort and safety
With anti-fatigue technology, these boots are ideal for all-day support and comfort
The cons:
Might feel heavier than other roofing boots
Ideal for: Roofers working in cold, wet conditions who prioritize warmth and waterproofing.
Price: $220
9. Irish Setter Wingshooter Waterproof Upland Boots
The Irish Setter Wingshooter Waterproof Upland Boot is designed for all-day performance. It features a removable polyurethane footbed and moisture-wicking nylon lining for long-lasting comfort.
These boots combine rugged durability with advanced waterproof features.
Key features include:
UltraDry Waterproofing technology
Moisture-wicking nylon lining
Steel support shank and heel molded counter
Leather upper features a speed-lacing system and contrast moc-toe stitching
The pros:
With high-quality waterproofing features, these boots are great to use in rainy conditions
The outsole is heat-, slip-, impact-, compression-, and electrical hazard–resistant
The cons:
You might feel too warm wearing these boots in mild weather
Ideal for: Roofers prioritizing waterproofing and insulation.
Price: $119.95 – $299.99
10. Ever Boots Tank S Work Boots
Ever Boots Tank S Work Boots are a mix of timeless design and reliable construction that offers comfort, durability, and extra protection.
They also feature a Goodyear welt construction and allow for re-soling, helpful in extending the boots’ lifespan. The soft nubuck leather also provides water resistance and eliminates the need for a break-in period.
Roofers who wear the Ever Boots Tank S Work Boots get durability and comfort at a budget-friendly price.
Key features include:
All-day comfort
Supple nubuck with reinforced stitches
Solid foundation
Steel-toe protection
The pros:
These steel-toe shoes offer reliable safety and protection
The cons:
You won’t get advanced cushioning with these boots
Ideal for: Roofers seeking a reliable, safe, and budget-friendly boot.
Price: $79.99
Why Is Wearing the Right Roofing Shoes Important?
With the right roofing shoes on your feet, you are more protected against accidents.
The nature of roofing work exposes you to slippery surfaces and steep roofs, and without specialized footwear, you are at risk of injury.
You can also work more efficiently if you have the comfort of high-quality roofing shoes.
Here are some key benefits of choosing the right shoes for you and your roofing company:
The most crucial function of roofing shoes is to prevent slips and falls. These shoes usually have specialized outsoles with aggressive treads that grip even the slickest surfaces.
Spending hours on a roof can be physically demanding. That’s why roofing shoe providers prioritize comfort with features like cushioned insoles and breathable materials.
The proper footwear can help you work more efficiently. Good traction and support allow you to move confidently and quickly.
How to Choose the Right Roofing Shoes
A well-designed roofing shoe combines several key elements. To find the perfect pair, focus on these factors:
Grip: Keeping your balance when working on a steep pitch roof is key to preventing you from falling. Roofing shoes are usually made of ethylene vinyl acetate rubber, neoprene, or other materials that increase traction.
Impact: What you don’t want to do when walking on a roof is damage it. Roofing shoes have a relatively soft outsole that reduces the chances of damaging roof shingles or other roofing materials.
Comfort and Support: Spending long hours on a roof is physically demanding; your shoes should help. Ensure the shoes fit well and with secure lacing to support your foot.
Breathability: Look for materials like mesh or perforated leather to help keep your feet cool and dry.
Waterproofing: Depending on the climate and weather conditions, you might also need waterproof shoes to protect your feet from rain and snow.
Cost: Depending on how often you want to replace your roofing shoes, you’ll either buy more expensive shoes to last longer or cheaper ones that you know will need regular replacement.
Ultimately, you should identify the non-negotiable elements and those you can compromise on to choose the right shoes.
What Are the Best Roofing Shoes for Shingles?
The best roofing shoes for shingles should offer a strong balance of grip, flexibility, and comfort, mostly because shingles can become slick in dusty or damp weather conditions. So, good traction is essential and the shoes should also be lightweight, to allow nimble movement and reduce fatigue during long hours on steep inclines.
Some of the best roofing shoes for shingles are listed below:
Cougar Paws Performer: These shoes feature a flexible leather upper and adjustable strap for increased comfort and stability, as well as an inside boot lining that helps keep the foot dry and comfortable for the duration of any roofing job.
Merrell Moab 2 Mid Tactical Waterproof Boots: Known for their strong grip and lightweight build, these boots provide solid traction and flexibility on shingles. Plus, the waterproof membrane keeps feet dry during damp-weather work.
Thorogood Crosstrex Waterproof Boots: Combining athletic shoe comfort with rugged boot durability, these shoes offer great ankle support, waterproofing, and a slip-resistant outsole—ideal for staying secure on angled surfaces.
Before you buy, here are some quick tips:
Avoid overly heavy boots unless you need that extra protection, as too much weight reduces agility.
Look for a balance between ankle support and flexibility for safe movements on sloped surfaces.
Prioritize shoes with high-friction rubber soles for optimal grip on shingles.
What Are the Best Roofing Shoes for Metal Roofing?
The best roofing shoes for working with metal roofs need to offer excellent slip resistance, especially in wet or dusty conditions, as metal roofs can be extremely slick. It’s a good idea to look for shoes with grippy rubber soles, lightweight builds for better balance, and waterproofing to increase surface contact.
Some of the best roofing shoes suited for metal roofs are:
Salomon X Ultra 4 Mid GTX: Due to the grippy Contagrip outsole that performs well on slick surfaces like metal roofing, the Salomon shoes are a great option for navigating metal panels safely.
Danner Mountain 600 4.5” Hiking Boots: Featuring a Vibram SPE midsole, Megagrip outsoles, and breathable Gore-Tex, these boots are ideal for maintaining traction on slippery surfaces while keeping water out.
KEEN Utility Flint II Low Steel Toe: These hiking-inspired boots offer a slip-resistant outsole and improved traction on metal roofing. They’re also waterproof, letting vapor out without letting water in.
When choosing roofing shoes for metal roofing, keep these in mind:
Go for shoes with flat, grippy rubber outsoles.
Waterproofing helps when working on dew-covered or rainy metal surfaces.
Lightweight construction improves balance and minimizes fatigue.
What Are the Best Roofing Shoes for Steep Roofs?
The best roofing shoes for steep roofs are all about superior traction, ankle support, and secure footing. When working on steep surfaces, every step counts, so you need boots that prevent slipping with features like reinforced uppers, solid lacing systems, and rubber outsoles.
Here are the top options:
Cougar Paws Performer: Built for roofing professionals, these shoes have patented traction pads that provide unmatched grip on steep roofs.
Red Wing Heritage 6-Inch Moc Toe Boots: Offer great ankle support and a flat outsole that grips well on angled surfaces.
Irish Setter Wingshooter Upland Boots: Combine stability and grip with a comfortable, supportive fit, ideal for navigating steep inclines.
Some quick tips for choosing the right pair:
Opt for high or mid-cut boots for added ankle support and stability.
Avoid stiff boots that reduce flexibility.
Make sure the boots fit snuggly as loose footwear can be dangerous on angled surfaces.
What Are Some Key Roofing-Shoe Brands?
When it comes to working on roofs, you need to invest in specialized brands that make shoes with enhanced grip, durability, ankle support, and weather resistance.
Here are the top three brands you should pay attention to:
Cougar Paws: This brand is widely recognized in the roofing industry. It specializes in footwear designed specifically for roofers, using a unique Traction Grip technology that enables roofers to work safely on various surfaces.
KEEN Utility: Blending work-boot durability with sneaker-like comfort, KEEN has roofing-appropriate models that offer solid slip resistance, steel toe protection, and breathable materials. It’s ideal for long days on various roof types and angled slopes.
Merrell: Known for rugged hiking footwear, Merrell offers several roofing models with grippy outsoles and waterproof construction that works well on sloped or uneven terrain.
Where Can You Buy Roofing Shoes?
Finding the right roofing shoes is easier than ever, thanks to the Internet. Here are the places you can check out:
Manufacturer websites: Brands like Cougar Paws and KEEN Utility sell directly through their website. Buying from the source can give you access to exclusive models, discounts, or better warranty options.
Online marketplace: Think Amazon, Zappos, Zalando, and other shoe stores. Sites like these give you access to a wider selection of brands and models.
Big box retailers: While the variety in these stores may be smaller and carry a limited selection of roofing-appropriate boots, they’re convenient for in-person purchases. Alternatively, you can look for specialty workwear stores that often carry roofing-specific footwear, such as Red Wing or Boot Barn.
Beyond Just Shoes: Streamline your Roofing Business with ServiceTitan
Equipping yourself or your team with the right gear is essential for a successful roofing business.
But the right roofing shoes are just one piece of the puzzle.
When Guardian Roofing faced challenges typical of the roofing industry, like inefficient operations and difficulty managing growth, the family-owned roofing company turned to ServiceTitan.
ServiceTitan is an all-in-one software platform designed specifically for the trades, including roofing. By leveraging Service Titan’s Marketing Pro, Guardian Roofing took control of its marketing operations and online reputation.
“Marketing Pro] gives us a really good visual of a lot of our metrics as far as what their performance is and what our return on investment is,” says Lori Swanson, owner of Guardian Roofing. “It's really helpful to know where we're going to spend those marketing dollars.”
When asked about ServiceTitan features, Robert Maier, vice president of Laing Roofing, said these are his favorites:
Tech-friendly mobile app: ServiceTitan’s Field Service App enables technicians to create estimates and manage tasks on the go.
Agile dispatch: Another favorite feature of Guardian Roofing too, the platform’s efficient dispatch system helps companies quickly adapt to changing weather conditions.
Customer-centric insights: ServiceTitan provides techs with comprehensive customer histories. “Techs can access that customer history and see that we've tried to go out there two or three times, but the weather didn't cooperate,” says Maier. “They know the backstory with the customer and what they've been going through. They're not going in blind.”
Easy membership management: Laing Roofing leverages ServiceTitan to effectively manage its membership program. It manages all its service contracts in one place and automates agreement renewals.
“I can't even imagine going back to pre-ServiceTitan because of how archaic it was and not having real-time information,” says Guardian Roofing’s Lori Swanson. “Having to wait until the end of the month to know your metrics is just not scalable. It's really hard to grow that way. You find yourself really reactive.”
With nearly $30 million in revenue generated in 2023, Guardian ranks among the nation’s top residential roofing companies.
Back to You
With the information from this guide, you’re well-equipped to choose the right roofing shoes.
You now know that traction, durability, comfort, and waterproofing are some key elements to look for in your next pair of roofing shoes.
While using the right equipment is essential, efficient business operations are equally important for success.
Roofing apps like Service Titan can streamline your business management and position you at the top of the competitive roofing industry.
ServiceTitan is a comprehensive software solution built specifically to help service companies streamline their operations, boost revenue, and substantially elevate the trajectory of their business. Our comprehensive, cloud-based platform is used by thousands of electrical, HVAC, plumbing, garage door, roofing, and chimney sweep shops across the country—and they have increased their revenue by an average of 25 percent in just their first year with us.
ServiceTitan Software
ServiceTitan is a comprehensive software solution built specifically to help service companies streamline their operations, boost revenue, and substantially elevate the trajectory of their business. Our comprehensive, cloud-based platform is used by thousands of electrical, HVAC, plumbing, garage door, and chimney sweep shops across the country—and has increased their revenue by an average of 25% in just their first year with us.
