CAT Men's Second Shift Soft Toe Work Boot - Full Grain Leather

In this review of the CAT Men's Second Shift Soft Toe Work Boot the bottom line is simple: these are built-for-work boots that prioritize durability and all-day comfort. Designed for tradespeople and anyone who spends long hours on their feet, the boot's standout feature is the Climasphere breathable insole that reduces fatigue across a shift. The review examines construction, comfort, and real-world grip to determine whether the Second Shift is worth picking up for a jobsite-ready daily wearer.

Key Features

• Climasphere insole: A cushioned, breathable insole keeps feet cooler and more comfortable during long days on hard surfaces.
• Goodyear welt construction: Built for durability and the ability to flex with the foot, this construction also supports resoling for extended life.
• Full grain leather or nubuck uppers: High-quality oiled leather delivers abrasion resistance and long-term protection in tough conditions.
• Slip-resistant T3 rubber outsole: The outsole provides reliable traction on low traction surfaces to reduce slips on the job.
• Electrical Hazard protection: Rated to protect against open circuits up to 600 volts in dry conditions per ASTM F2413-18, offering added safety in certain work environments.
• Steel shank: An internal shank adds midfoot stability for carrying tools and standing on ladders or uneven ground.

Who It's For

The Second Shift is best suited to construction workers, maintenance technicians, and others who need a dependable, comfortable boot for daily wear. The combination of full grain leather, Goodyear welt construction, and a slip-resistant T3 outsole makes it a good choice for environments where durability and traction matter.

Those who need composite toes, waterproof membranes, or a narrow fashion profile should look elsewhere; this model focuses on classic work-boot features and protective basics rather than specialized waterproofing or a lighter athletic fit.

Pros & Cons

Pros

• Solid build quality with well-stitched leather uppers that customers say last for years.
• Comfortable fit thanks to the Climasphere breathable insole, suited to full workdays.
• Durable Goodyear welt allows flexibility and potential for resoling, adding long-term value.
• Reliable slip-resistant outsole and EH protection enhance on-the-job safety.

Cons

• Sizing feedback is mixed; some buyers find the boots run slightly large, so trying the size or checking fit notes is recommended.
• Not explicitly waterproof, so it may not be ideal for consistently wet conditions without additional treatment.

Specifications

Brand	CAT
Model	Second Shift Soft Toe
Upper Material	Oiled full grain leather or nubuck
Construction	Goodyear welt construction
Insole	Climasphere cushioned breathable insole
Outsole	T3 rubber slip-resistant outsole
Safety	Electrical Hazard protection to 600 volts (ASTM F2413-18)
Support	Steel shank for added stability

Our Verdict

The CAT Second Shift is a dependable, no-nonsense work boot that balances comfort and durability at a fair price. It is a smart buy for hands-on workers who value a breathable insole, strong leather uppers, and the longevity that goes with Goodyear welt construction; those needing waterproofing or a narrower fit should consider other options.

Frequently Asked Questions

Are these boots good for long shifts?
The Climasphere cushioned breathable insole and supportive steel shank make them comfortable for extended wear on hard surfaces.

Do they run true to size?
Customer feedback is mixed; many report true-to-size fit while some find them slightly large, so check sizing guidance or try before committing.

Are they safe around electrical hazards?
Yes, they provide Electrical Hazard protection rated to protect against open circuits up to 600 volts in dry conditions per ASTM F2413-18.