Cat Footwear Men's Second Shift Steel Toe Work Boot (Style IM9M)

In this review of the Cat Footwear Men's Second Shift Steel Toe work boot the bottom line is simple: these are practical, everyday industrial boots made for workers who need reliable protection and steady comfort. The biggest reason to consider them is the combination of a cushioned, breathable insole and a rugged, Goodyear welt build that stands up to repeated use. The review examines how the boots perform on job sites, how they feel across a long day, and where their construction and materials shine or show limitations.

Key Features

• Climasphere cushioned breathable insole: Keeps feet ventilated and comfortable through long shifts to reduce fatigue and hot spots.
• Goodyear Welt Construction: Adds durable, flexible support and makes the sole more serviceable over time for jobs that demand longevity.
• Quality oiled full grain leather or nubuck: Provides a tough outer layer that resists abrasion and conforms to the foot for improved fit with wear.
• Slip Resistant outsole: Delivers traction on low traction and wet surfaces to help prevent slips on work floors.
• Electrical Hazard (EH) protection: Guards against open circuits up to 600 volts in dry conditions for added on-site safety (ASTM F2413-18).

Who It's For

The Second Shift Steel Toe is aimed at tradespeople, construction workers, and maintenance staff who need a dependable, protective boot for daily wear. It performs well for those who alternate between walking, standing and light climbing on job sites and who value a traditional, rugged boot that also breathes.

Those who should look elsewhere include workers needing a waterproof specialty boot or those who require ultra-lightweight footwear for long site treks; while durable, the Second Shift is a classic leather boot and not a minimalist or waterproof hiking shoe alternative.

Pros & Cons

Pros

• Solid, comfortable fit from the Climasphere cushioned breathable insole that eases fatigue.
• Hardwearing Goodyear welt construction that provides flexibility and potential for longer service life.
• Slip resistant outsole and EH protection add practical safety for many industrial environments.
• Attractive rugged styling and quality leather that improve with use.

Cons

• Some customers report mixed durability experiences, so individual pairs may vary in long-term life.
• The boot is not marketed as waterproof, so wet-weather performance may be limited compared with sealed waterproof models.

Specifications

Our Verdict

The Cat Footwear Second Shift Steel Toe is a dependable work boot for those who need protection, practical safety features and steady comfort without fuss. It represents good value for workers who favor classic leather construction and traceable build quality, though those requiring waterproofing or guaranteed extreme longevity should consider specialized alternatives.

Frequently Asked Questions

Are these boots waterproof?
No, the Second Shift is offered in oiled full grain leather or nubuck and is not specified as waterproof; treated use in wet conditions may require additional care or a waterproofing product.

Do they provide electrical protection?
Yes, they include Electrical Hazard (EH) protection rated to guard against open circuits up to 600 volts in dry conditions (ASTM F2413-18).

Can the soles be repaired?
The Goodyear welt construction allows for better repairability and potential resoling compared with cemented soles, extending usable life with professional service.