The Timberland PRO Pit Boss 6" Steel Toe is one of the most popular steel toe boots on Amazon. It has more than 27,000 ratings and a 4.3-star average (checked 2026-09-30). It's a plain leather lace-up with a steel toe, EH protection and a welted sole, built for general trade work.
We haven't worn the Pit Boss ourselves. This review is based on Timberland PRO's published specs, the Amazon listing and patterns in thousands of buyer reviews. You'll get what the boot does well, where buyers run into trouble, and who should pick something else.
Quick Verdict
Buy it if your job needs a steel toe and EH rating, you work mostly in dry conditions, and you want a proven boot from a big brand at a mid-range price.
Skip it if you need a waterproof boot, you have wide feet, or you walk long distances every shift. The steel toe and stiff build feel heavy over a long day.
Check the current price of the Timberland PRO Pit Boss on Amazon
Timberland PRO Pit Boss Specs
| Spec | Timberland PRO Pit Boss 6" Steel Toe |
|---|---|
| Height | 6 inches |
| Upper | Leather (nubuck on some colors) |
| Safety toe | Steel, ASTM F2413 rated for impact and compression (I/75, C/75) |
| Electrical hazard | ASTM F2413 EH rated (leather must be dry) |
| Construction | Goodyear welt |
| Outsole | Rubber over a PU midsole, oil, slip and abrasion resistant |
| Footbed | Removable cushioned insole |
| Lining | Mesh with antimicrobial treatment |
| Shank | Nylon |
| Waterproof | No |
| Amazon rating | 4.3 stars, 27,000+ ratings (checked 2026-09-30) |
Specs from Timberland PRO's product details and authorized retailer listings. Check the Amazon listing for current sizes, widths and colors.
What the Pit Boss Does Well
A safety rating most sites accept
The steel toe meets ASTM F2413 for impact and compression, and the boot carries an EH rating. That covers the safety toe and electrical hazard rules on most construction, warehouse and maintenance jobs. Always check your employer's exact requirements. Curious how much a steel toe can take? See how much weight a steel toe can hold.
Welted construction
The Pit Boss uses a Goodyear welt. A welted sole is stitched to the upper, so it tends to hold up better than a glued sole. Many cobblers can also resole a welted boot, which is rare at this price.
Grip on oily and wet floors
The rubber outsole is rated oil and slip resistant. Buyers often mention good grip on shop floors and wet concrete. The flip side: the deep tread picks up mud and gravel, so it needs a scrape after outdoor work.
Comfortable once broken in
Many buyers say the boot becomes comfortable after a short break-in, and some say it felt good from day one. The padded collar and removable insole help. If you want more arch support, swap the insole. Our best insoles for work boots guide covers good options.
A long track record
The Pit Boss has been in Timberland PRO's lineup for about two decades. With over 27,000 Amazon ratings, it has one of the biggest feedback bases of any steel toe boot. Many buyers report a year or two of daily use.
Where It Falls Short
Not waterproof
The Pit Boss has a mesh lining, not a waterproof membrane. Leather sheds a light shower, but puddles, wet grass and slush will soak through. For wet work, look at the waterproof Timberland PRO Boondock.
Heel rubbing during break-in
The most common complaint is heel and cuff rubbing in the first days. Thin socks and a full first shift make it worse. Wear the boots for a few hours at a time at first, and use thicker work socks.
Runs narrow for wide feet
Most buyers say the boot fits true to size and width. But people with wide feet often find it tight, and a steel toe cap won't stretch. If you usually need wide shoes, order the wide version or look at our best work boots for wide feet.
Heavier than composite toe boots
Steel toe plus a welted sole adds weight. Some buyers report tired feet after long walking days. If you cover a lot of ground, a composite toe boot will feel lighter. Our steel toe vs composite toe guide explains the trade-offs.
Durability is mixed for some
Most feedback on durability is good, but a minority of buyers report soles separating or leaking within months. Keep your receipt and check the return terms on the listing.
Sizing Tips
Order your normal boot size. Choose Wide if your feet are wide or you've had trouble with other Timberland PRO boots. When you try them on, stand up and make sure your toes don't touch the steel cap. Try boots later in the day with the socks you'll wear at work. Confused by widths? See boot width letters explained.
Pit Boss vs Similar Boots
| Timberland PRO Pit Boss | Timberland PRO Boondock | CAT Second Shift | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Toe | Steel | Composite | Steel |
| Waterproof | No | Yes | No |
| Best for | Dry trade work, shops, warehouses | Wet sites, long days | Steel toe on a tighter budget |
If budget matters most, the CAT Second Shift Steel Toe covers the same basics for less, and our author Ethan has worn a pair. For more options, see our best steel toe boots and the best work boots roundup.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is the Timberland PRO Pit Boss waterproof?
No. It has a mesh lining, not a waterproof membrane. Timberland PRO sells waterproof models like the Boondock if you need dry feet.
Is the Pit Boss steel toe ASTM rated?
Yes. It meets ASTM F2413 for impact and compression, and it carries an EH rating.
Does the Timberland PRO Pit Boss run true to size?
Most buyers say yes. People with wide feet often find it narrow, so order Wide if you usually need it.
How long does it take to break in the Pit Boss?
Many buyers say a few days of short wear is enough. Rushing into a full shift is the most common cause of heel blisters.
Can you resole the Pit Boss?
It has Goodyear welt construction, so many cobblers can resole it. Ask a local shoe repair shop before the outsole wears through.
Is the Pit Boss good for standing on concrete?
It works, but a heeled lug sole isn't the most comfortable choice for 12 hours on flat concrete. See our best work boots for standing on concrete.
The Bottom Line
The Timberland PRO Pit Boss is a proven, no-frills steel toe boot with the safety ratings most jobs ask for, a welted sole and grippy outsole. It isn't waterproof, it can rub during break-in, and it runs narrow for wide feet.
If you work mostly in dry conditions and want a trusted steel toe, check the Timberland PRO Pit Boss on Amazon. If you work in the wet, get a waterproof boot instead.
