Do you wear the same outfit for all your functions, events, and gatherings? We hope that clothing needs to be according to the surrounding, comfort, and purpose.
In a similar fashion, there are different kinds of boots that are often used interchangeably One of them is lineman boots and logger boots.
Most people are unaware of their usage, construction, and intended purpose. So, they end up using the wrong kind of boots for their daily job.
If you wish to avoid making such a mistake, read along and learn the difference between lineman boots VS logger boots.
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What are Lineman Boots?
Linemen boots are a purpose-specific type of footwear that is used by people who have to work with power lines or phone cables. If we keep it in a broader spectrum, linemen boots are worn by those people who have to maintain balance while climbing poles.
Generally, they are made of cowhide leather, hence its heavy-duty construction. They are heavy in terms of weight as they are required to provide support as well as stability.
Lineman boots can either be lined or unlined. Moreover, it has extra steel shanks that makes the boot stiff under the instep. Such an innovative feature acts as resistance from flexing while standing on a ladder.
Coming to its construction, linemen boots have a lace-up structure from the toe to the top in a crossed pattern.
What are Lineman Boots Used for?
As the name suggests, lineman boots are used by linemen to climb poles and ladders in an effortless manner. Due to their construction, they are also used by the people associated with cable installation, arboriculture, or tree service work.
The main usage of linemen boots is to climb poles. As normal boots might not provide the required traction during such feats, they turn out to be highly advantageous.
Also Read: Best Electrician Work Boots
What are Logger Boots?
Similar to the linemen boots, logger boots have received the name from their intended profession- logging.
As logging is mostly done in the forest region, loggers have to walk on uneven terrains. More often than so, such grounds are filled with gravels, stones, broken branches, etc. In addition to that, they are also required to walk on steep slopes.
Normal work boots might not hold up well under such intense pressure and environment. This led to an increased demand for logger boots.
Coming to its construction, they are lace-up boots covering the feet and the ankles. They have a rubber or leather construction that makes them resistant to tearing or fraying.
The most distinctive feature of logger boots is its raised heel. It is a widely spread assumption that the elevated heel is for adding style to it. However, it has certain practical reasons for it.
The heel allows the wearer to have enough traction and friction with the ground. This further prevents any accidental slipping or casualties.
Logger boots have a waterproof construction, making them beneficial in water or muddy regions. Neither will the water penetrate the boot nor will it have any negative repercussions on its material.
What are Logger Boots used for?
Logger boots are a hit in the timber industry. As their day-to-day work requires them to carry the logs from rough surfaces. Such heavy-duty boots are a must!
Besides logging, such boots are also used by bikers, farmers, ranchers, etc.
Their outsoles are made with robust material that remains intact, regardless of the excessive friction.
When it comes to comfort, the heel provides the necessary arch support. Such qualities make logger boots valuable as well as pragmatic for physical work.
Difference Between Both
After having understood both the terms individually, you might think that both kinds of boots are more or less, the same. Be that as it may, there are certain substantial differences, like the following:
Side Plates
The main difference between lineman boots and logger boots is the steel side plates.
Lineman boots have such side plates that prevent the poles, trees, or motorcycle levers from messing up with the material of the boot.
Such kinds of boots also contain steel breastplates for extra protection. Arch support is guaranteed by the leather half-slips. These steel plates are added to lineman boots to reduce friction between the poles and the shoes. Furthermore, it also prevents any wear or tears to the material.
Lastly, these plates lead to a firm grip over the climbing irons. This helps in reducing accidents or slip-ups.
On the other hand, logger boots lack such a feature as they are not required to climb poles or trees.
Weight
As mentioned earlier, lineman boots are slightly heavier in weight due to the steel plates. As it is requisite for linemen to worn on electricity poles, trees, or electric towers, their boots are designed more intricately.
When such boots are made with rugged materials, the boots are bound to be heavier in weight. Moreover, the steel plates add to the weight.
Diversely, logger boots aren’t used for climbing any complicated poles. They are mostly used for walking on uneven terrains and it is impractical for them to be heavy. Hence, such boots are comparatively lighter. As they lack steel plates, their weight is pushed down even further.
It should be noted that being lighter does not mean that logger boots are not made of sturdy materials. As loggers spend most of the time on the ground, they need their boots to be light in weight so that they could conduct their work effortlessly.
Soles
As both types of boots serve varying purposes, the construction of the soles differs as well.
Lineman boots have rigid soles as it prevents their boots from getting twisted or flexing while climbing a pole.
Contrarily, logger boots have flexible soles that allow the wearer to walk on the mucky grounds without any hassle.
Width
If you would look at the dimensions of logger boots and lineman boots, you would notice that lineman boots have a wider construction. Such a structure is added for even weight distribution across the soles of the shoes. This further allows the wearer to have enhanced stability which is a priority while climbing poles.
But when it comes to logger boots, such an element is not featured as they are mainly used on the ground, and not to climb poles.
Size of Heel
Lineman cannot climb poles with high heeled shoes. It is not only inconvenient but also unsafe.
However, logger boots have elevated heels that allow them to walk on uneven terrain with maximum comfort. Moreover, the heels prevent the boots from coming in direct contact with the mud or water lying in the forest regions.
Pros and Cons of Lineman Boots and Logger Boots
After understanding the basic differences between lineman boots and logger boots, it is time to understand their merits and demerits.
Pros of Lineman Boots
- They are supportive and comfortable.
- They provide arch and ankle support.
- They have high durability.
- They have wider soles that help in an equal distribution of the overall weight.
- They have waterproof construction.
- They provide the required traction and stability while climbing poles.
Cons of Lineman Boots
- They can be an expensive purchase.
- Due to the steel plates, they are relatively heavier.
- Because of their width, they might run large.
Pros of Logger Boots
- They provide the appropriate amount of traction on the surfaces.
- They have waterproof construction.
- The raised heel gives added protection.
- They are abrasions free.
- The heavy-duty material makes them highly durable.
- They have anti-slip properties,
- They are easy to clean and maintain.
- They are affordable.
- The insoles provide the necessary cushion to the heel
Cons of Logger Boots
- They might require some break-in time.
- They are not insulated.
FAQs
Why do logger boots have high heels?
Logger boots have high heels as it provides the necessary traction. When loggers have to climb slopes, they need a proper grip on the ground to prevent any accidents. Such heels can allow them to have a firm grip, even to uneven ground. Moreover, such an elevated heel alleviates heel pain and provides the necessary arch support. Lastly, such a heel also helps in improving the posture of the wearer.
Why do linemen wear long boots?
Linemen need to wear tall or lineman boots for better productivity and safety at their job. As they need to climb high poles and trees, they need to have properly fitted boots. As lineman boots have a lace-up construction that goes up to the calves, they provide a snug fit. This prevents them from getting injured.
Why do lineman boots have steel shanks?
Lineman boots feature steel shanks to provide utmost protection. It helps in preventing serious foot injuries. Moreover, it acts as a source of friction that is vital between the boot and the poles.
The bottom line
We hope that the aforementioned points have cleared up the difference between lineman boots and logger boots. If you need a quick recap, lineman boots are mostly used for the task that requires you to climb high-end places like poles. On the other hand, logger boots are used for tasks where there is a need to walk or climb on uneven or rugged surfaces.
In short, both boots are highly beneficial, but only if they are used for their respective purposes. So next time you make a purchase, keep your work intention in mind and make an informed decision.
Also Read:
Are Logger Boots Good For Your Feet
Why Do Logger Boots Have High Heels
How to Tell if a Shoe is Non-Slip
William has hands-on experiences with construction sites, and the hazards employees face while working. He has been a dedicated worker since 1995 and is currently looked up to by many of his subordinates for the work he has done throughout his tenure. He has passed several certifications regarding safety at the workplace, including OSHA (Occupational Safety and Health Administration, Silica in Construction Certificate, and the National Association of Safety Professionals Certification.
He has ample experience in woodwork and welding and understands the importance of a tough work boot in dangerous occupational environments. His achievements, experience, and knowledge allow him to be an expert in the field of work boots. He selects and tries all the products that he reviews and presents to his readers. As per him, the safety of the boot is beyond the beauty of it. He carefully scrutinizes each aspect of work boots, including flex, laces, length, breathability, strength, and more.
