A BUYER'S GUIDE TO INSULATED PAC BOOTS

What is a pac boot? It’s the warmest, most heavy-duty waterproof work boot you’ll ever wear.

Pac boots, or pacs, originally referred to a waterproof moccasin. By the 1920s, the term had morphed to describe boots with a waterproof bottom and a canvas or leather upper and, sometimes, a removeable insulated sock or liner.

These days, pac boots are usually made with a durable rubber or synthetic sole that wraps over the top of the foot and stops below the ankle. The upper part of the boot is constructed with treated leather or waterproof nylon and includes extra insulation for warmth. The insulation may be built directly into the boot, or it may come in the form of a removeable liner.

Features to Look for in a Pac Boot

Pac boots are built thick for protection from the elements and lined with industrial-strenght insulation, so make sure you really need this kind of a heavy-duty boot. If you're sitting still in subzero temperatures, facing a strong wind chill, or walking on frozen surfaces or equipment in freezing conditions, pac boots are the right choice to save your toes from frostbite.

Temperature Ratings

When you're working in the cold, comfort is key. We recommend choosing a pac boot that is comfort rated for the temperatures you'll face on the job. RefrigiWear pac boots are all assigned a comfort range to guide you in the right direction. Keep in mind things such as health, activity levels and other clothing can effect overall warmth, so check out this article on how to use RefrigiWear Comfort Ratings to find the right gear for your work.

Water Resistance

All pac boots are waterproof or water-repellent around the sole, but if your work has you stomping through wet snow or constantly standing in water, you'll also want a fully waterproof upper in your pac boot.

Cold water seeping in through your boot will make it impossible to keep your feet warm, and you'll be at risk for cold-related injuries like trench foot.

Boot Height

Pac boots generally range in height from 9” to 13”. The taller the boot, the warmer and more protected your feet will be.

However, a taller height also adds weight. If you're going on short walks or not participating in strenuous activities, a taller boot will work for you. However, if you'll be hiking, walking or constantly moving, you will probably want to try a 9” – 10” boot for less fatigue.

Boot Liners

Some pac boots have insulation built directly into the boot, so there's no need for a removeable liner. Just wear your preferred insulated sock, lace up your boots and go. Other pac boots are built with less insulation in the boot, but you can add more by inserting a removeable boot liner.

As you might guess, the boot liner serves to add warmth in extreme cold, like with our Extreme Pac Boot. The thicker the liner and more layers it has, the warmer the pac boot will feel.

If you prefer a pac boot with a liner, make sure the liner has thick, high-quality foam to cushion your feet and a thermal membrane that traps your body heat and reflects it back to keep your feet warmer. But, you don't want your feet to sweat, so make sure your liner has built-in hollow fiber layer that funnels moisture and water vapor away from the foot for maximum warmth and comfort.

Safety Features

Many pac boots come with a safety toes and puncture-resistant plates built into the sole. If you're going to be in dangerous environments or areas where you might come into contact with sharp objects, look for composite or steel toes and puncture-resistant plates.

Find the Right Footwear

If you have any questions about choosing the best pac boot or other non-slip work shoes for your employees, contact RefrigiWear Customer Service and let us help you find a solution for your environment.