Why should you care about Caulk Boots?

Caulk boots have metal spikes on the bottom that provide traction when walking on logs and other slippery surfaces. Section 8.23(2) of the BC Occupational Health and Safety Regulation requires caulk boots when walking on logs, poles, pilings or other round timbers. This applies to some tree planting worksites, particularly on the coast and in more recently logged worksites.

Caulk boots provide superior traction on logs and other slippery surfaces but can result in decreased traction on smooth stone or flat rocky areas. Ultimately, most tree planters end up with at least two pairs of good work boots, with sturdy hiking boots with ankle support for easier terrain, and caulk boots for sites where they are best suited.

Which boots are best for tree planting?

There are several options for buying caulk boots. These include readily available caulked rubber boots that can be found in workwear retailers, some health and safety retailers, and in logging supply stores. Looser fitting rubber caulk boots sometimes require the use of additional insoles or a “bama sock” to provide a better fit.

More expensive options made from leather can be purchased from boot-makers such as Viberg, Hoffman, and Canada West. Leather caulk boots require more maintenance and waterproofing treatments, but can last much longer than rubber boots and provide a more customized fit as the leather shapes to your feet.

A third option is to take a high-quality hiking or mountaineering boot to a cobbler or custom boot maker and have a caulked sole installed. This option tends to be among the most expensive, as one should only invest the modification costs in a high-quality boot. However, it can provide the highest level of comfort and fit, and is a viable option for people with very large or very small feet who cannot find caulked boots in their size.

Pro Tips

• Wearing caulk boots can sometimes be uncomfortable if swelling or blistering occurs. Wearing an athletic compression sock over a thin merino wool sock can help avoid blistering by allowing the foot to slide easily against the interior of the boot. The compression sock also can assist in venal return, preventing blood from being trapped in your feet and painful from occurring throughout the day. In the old days of logging, some lumberjacks would use multiple layers of panty-hose socks to achieve the same benefit.

• The spikes on caulk boots should be changed regularly and whenever they become dull to ensure they remain sharp and capable of penetrating tree bark and grip other surfaces.

• A special but inexpensive wrench is required for changing caulks, and most workers add a small dab of grease to the threads of the caulks to prevent them from rusting into place.

• While workers are required to provide their own footwear, many employers provide replacement caulks to help them keep their boots in good condition.