Why do Logger Boots Have High Heels?

If you work in a certain profession that requires logger boots, you may wonder why they have high heels. The extra-high heels on the heels of logger boots give them a distinct look compared to other types of work boots used in other industries.

Why is that, though? In this article, we’ll discuss why logger boots have high heels and what industries typically require the use of this work boot.

Reasons Logger Boots Have High Heels

Logger boots have raised heels for several reasons, and we promise none of them have to do with making a fashion statement! They include:

Increased Durability

Linemen, loggers, and farmers typically require the use of logging boots. Because they’re often working in rough, muddy, or steep terrain, their boots tend to deteriorate much quicker.

A logger’s weight is usually centered in the heel area, and the high heel – manufactured with sturdy rubber – reduces much of the pressure in this area, causing them to last longer while protecting the feet and ankles more.

If you work in a demanding industry such as logging and want to keep your work boots as long as possible, consider buying a pair of logging boots.

Better Traction for Climbing

Loggers spend much of their time climbing trees, and, therefore, they require the safest clothing and equipment to prevent dangerous slips and falls. Loggers can climb trees more safely and quickly when they wear high-heel logging boots. They also prevent slipping when workers are perched in the air.

Logger boots are manufactured with a deep lug pattern to provide superior traction on uneven terrain. They also are equipped with gaps that allow spurs to be fastened to the bottom of the boot when climbing trees.

Improved traction isn’t just ideal for the logging industry, though; anyone who works or walks on inclined terrain can benefit from the extra traction provided by the thicker heel. You’ll be able to dig into the ground more securely when working on a steep slope, a feature not found in normal work boots.

More Stability on Uneven Surfaces

Outdoor workers, including loggers, lineman, and ranchers, often face other obstacles aside from just steep slopes or tall trees. They often come across uneven surfaces that may contain rocks, boulders, logs, debris, and other potential risks. These obstacles can become even more dangerous after rain makes them slippery.

The high heels in logger boots, though, can keep these workers safer by providing better traction and keeping their feet above the ground so the boots do not become dirty or wet, which can cause comfort and safety issues.

Better Foot and Ankle Support

You’ve probably heard women talk about how uncomfortable and painful high heels are. Fortunately, the heels used for logging boots are very different. The extended heel of a logging boot provides additional support for the ankle and the entire foot, which is needed when performing rigorous outdoor work.

The increased arch support is great for workers who are on their feet all day and prevents feet and ankles from aching after a long day of work. This is because there is less weight on the ball of the foot.

The higher heel also allows workers to walk with more of a straight posture, which can help decrease nagging injuries such as back and joint pain that are often associated with jobs such as farmers, loggers, ranchers, and linemen.

Helps When Riding Horses

Riding horses is still the best way for ranchers to gather and work with cattle on larger plots of land. Logger boots are a rancher’s best friend.

The raised heels in logger boots prevent the feet from sliding forward while they’re in the stirrup, which can prevent ranchers or farmers from falling off horses, leading to serious injuries or even fatalities.

The extended heels in logger boots also provide horse riders with better stability and balance.

Who Needs Logger Boots?

Any outdoor worker who frequently works on uneven terrain, slick surfaces, or climbs trees and utility poles can benefit from wearing logger boots with high heels.

Some of the most common professions that utilize logging boots include:

Logging - There’s a reason they’re called “logger” boots; they’re tailor-made for the logging industry. The elevated heel makes them great for walking on uneven terrain and climbing trees. Loggers can easily walk over rocks, logs, or other debris while enjoying excellent traction.
Linemen - Linemen do a difficult and dangerous job. Not only do they walk on uneven and rocky terrain most of the day, but they also go up and down high utility poles. The gap created by the outsole and surface makes it much easier for linemen to grip the ladder rung. This prevents serious falls from occurring, which can lead to bad injuries and even death.
Ranchers and Farmers - We mentioned ranchers can benefit from logger boots because the high heel prevents feet from slipping forward in the stirrup. But what about farmers? Farmers, too, are ideal candidates for logger boots because they are exposed to several types of surfaces daily, including uneven ground, rocks, mud, and water. Aside from keeping the boot more protected, high-heel logger boots provide better traction, which can lead to improved posture and fewer injuries to backs, joints, and feet.

Are Logger Boots Comfortable?

All work boots take some time to get used to, especially logger boots because of their high heels. Humans, in general, are most used to walking flat-footed, so having their feet inclined inside the boot will come with an adjustment period. This is why logger boots seem more uncomfortable at first than normal work boots worn by construction or factory workers.

Because some of the muscles in your foot that have never had to work before will suddenly be utilized, it could result in sore feet. However, this will likely only last a week or two.

But it’s not all bad news. Logger boots protect ankles and feet better to prevent soreness and injury. That’s because the boots’ high heels act as shock absorbers which will reduce the amount of pressure put on the feet.

The foam insoles also provide cushioning for your feet. Most logger boots are manufactured with breathable, high-quality leather to keep feet cool even during extremely hot temperatures.

How to Care for Logger Boots

According to the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA), employers are not required to pay for non-specialty, safety-toe protective footwear, including logger boots and steel-toe shoes. And since most quality logger boots cost about $100 to $250 or more, it only makes sense to maintain them so they’ll last as long as possible.

Follow these steps when caring for logger boots:

Breaking in the Boots

Before using oil or conditioner on the boots, ensure that they’re properly broken in first. You want the leather to mold around your foot without the use of oil and grease, which can lead to an ill-fitting pair of work boots. The breaking-in period could take as long as 80 to 100 hours.

Condition the Boots

After the break-in period, use a conditioner specifically designed for leather logger boots. Before you use the conditioner, though, use a rag to remove dirt or dust that accumulated while you were on the job. This can be a daily chore when you return home from work each day.

Use a rag or nylon brush and apply the conditioner in circular motions to the leather. Stitching and areas where the leather meets leather should receive extra attention. After 12 hours, use a dry rag and rub the boots before using them again. Consider conditioning your work boots once per month.

Conclusion

If you work as a farmer, rancher, linesman, or logger, it’s a good idea to purchase a pair of high-quality logger boots. The boots’ high heels will keep you safe as you navigate through difficult terrain or up and down utility poles and trees. Read reviews about each type of logger boot to find one that other people in your industry recommend. It’s also a smart idea not to buy a pair of logger boots online. You should go to a store and try them on to see if they’re compatible with your feet first.