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Frequently Asked Questions

Everything you need to know about orders, returns, and finding the right boots.

Orders

How fast will my order ship?
Most orders are processed and shipped within 5–7 business days. Expedited orders ship within one business day. Our business days are Monday through Friday, excluding holidays. If we anticipate a delay, there will be a disclaimer on the product page of affected items. For full rates and delivery windows, see our shipping policy.
Do you offer free shipping?
Yes. We offer free shipping within 4–6 business days on all orders over $150, shipping within the contiguous United States. These shipments are insured and traceable. Faster 3–4 day shipping is $5.99 on orders over $150, or $8.99 on orders under $150. Expedited options are available at checkout for an additional fee.
What happens if I purchase an item on backorder?
If you order an item that is temporarily unavailable, you will receive an email with an estimated shipping date. Your card will not be charged until the item is back in stock and ready to ship. If you'd prefer not to wait, contact us and we'll recommend an alternative or refund your purchase.
Do you ship internationally?
We currently do not ship internationally. We apologize for any inconvenience.
Do you ship to APO/FPO/DPO addresses?
Yes! We charge a flat rate of $9.99 for all orders shipping to APO/FPO/DPO addresses. All packages are sent USPS Priority Mail only. Please allow up to 6 weeks for delivery. For the best rate, select the United States as your country when entering an APO/FPO/DPO address. For more details, see our shipping policy.
How do I claim a manufacturer's warranty?
Many products sold by Workboots.com are covered by manufacturer's warranties. For issues covered by a manufacturer's warranty, please visit the manufacturing brand's website and/or call their customer service line directly.

If your product arrived defective or damaged, please contact our customer relations department and we'll help get your return squared away.
Do you offer discounts on volume orders?
Yes. We offer competitive pricing and quotes for large quantity orders. Contact our Strategic Accounts Team at Strategicaccounts@workboots.com (M–F 8:30AM–4:30PM CT). Please allow up to 24 hours to receive your quote. If you are outfitting a crew or setting up a company footwear program, see Work Boots for Business.
Do you accept purchase orders or government procurement cards?
Yes. We accept procurement cards through the SmartPay program, as well as purchase orders and lines of credit for qualified applicants. During checkout, use your SmartPay card just like any standard credit card. To apply for a line of credit before purchasing, see our payment policy.
Do you match competitors' prices?
Yes. If you find a lower price on the same item at an authorized reseller, we're happy to match it. The competitor's item must be active, in stock, and match exactly on size and color. Clearance and closeout items, and items with promotional pricing, don't qualify. See our Low Price Guarantee for full terms.

Returns

The boots I ordered didn't work out. How do I return an item?
You have 90 days to return items in new, unworn condition with tags attached. Just visit our returns portal, enter your information, and follow the on-screen steps.

Within the contiguous U.S. we'll provide a traceable, insured shipping label for $7.99, and refund to your original payment method. If you'd prefer store credit instead, we waive the $7.99 fee and your return ships free. Once we receive it, processing typically takes 5–7 business days. Full details are in our return policy.
How do I exchange an item?
Visit our returns portal and select the exchange option, then follow the on-screen steps. The same 90-day window and new, unworn condition requirements apply. See our return policy for full details.
Can I return boots I've already worn on the job?
No. Returns must be in new, unworn condition with tags still attached. We recommend trying boots on indoors, on a clean surface, to check the fit before wearing them on site. If something isn't right, contact us and we'll help you find a better fit.
Can I return a clearance or open box item?
No — all clearance and open box sales are final. We cannot accept returns or exchanges on clearance or open box items.
Can I return a customized or embroidered item?
Items that have been customized are not eligible for return. All embroidery is sewn exactly as requested when the order is placed. Did we make an error on your order? We're sorry! Please contact us and we'll send you a corrected version as soon as possible.
My order arrived, but the product is defective. What can I do?
We're sorry to hear that! Please contact our customer relations team right away. We'll assess whether the item is covered under the manufacturer's warranty and work quickly to get it resolved.
If I return an item, will I be charged a restocking fee?
No. We never charge a restocking fee on retail orders.
Will I be refunded my original shipping cost?
No. We do not refund original shipping costs on returned orders. Please also use the insured shipping label we provide — fees for packages sent without it are not eligible for reimbursement.
How long does my store credit last?
All store credit issued by Workboots.com expires one year from the date of issuance. Any unused store credit remaining after one year will expire and become void.

Shopping

What is the difference between ripstop and twill fabrics?
Twill and ripstop refer to specific types of fabric weaves. Ripstop can be identified by its unique checkerboard pattern and has coarse fibers ribbed at intervals that reduce tears and abrasions. Its lightweight, sturdy characteristics offer both wind and water resistance — ideal if you're hard on your gear.

Twill has an uneven texture and diagonal lines, which helps minimize the appearance of stains and soils. This fabric is more pliable than others and often packs a higher thread count, making high-count twills wind, water, and wrinkle resistant.
Is water resistant the same as waterproof?
No. Water-resistant items can repel light moisture — such as brief rain or splashes — but will eventually absorb water in sustained exposure. Waterproof items use membranes or sealed seams to keep water out entirely, even under prolonged or heavy conditions. If you'll be in sustained wet environments, look for a waterproof rating.
What is the difference between poly-cotton and nylon-cotton fabrics?
Poly-cotton blends combine polyester and cotton for a fabric that is breathable, durable, and easy to care for — it holds its shape and resists shrinking. Nylon-cotton blends are generally more abrasion resistant and dry faster than poly-cotton, making them a popular choice for field use. Both are common in tactical apparel; the right choice depends on your specific environment and priorities.
How can I match uniform coats, shirts and pants?
Color matching across uniform pieces can be tricky since dye lots vary by manufacturer and item type. We recommend ordering all pieces from the same brand when possible. If you need help matching items or have questions about compatibility, contact us — our team is happy to assist.
What is Berry compliance?
The Berry Amendment is a U.S. law that requires the Department of Defense to give preference to domestically produced goods, including food, clothing, fabrics, and related items. A Berry-compliant product means it was grown, reprocessed, reused, or produced entirely in the United States.
What is GSA compliance?
GSA compliance means a product is listed on the U.S. General Services Administration (GSA) schedule — a government procurement vehicle that allows federal agencies to purchase goods and services at pre-negotiated prices. GSA-compliant products have been vetted and approved for government purchase.
Can a product be GSA compliant and not Berry compliant?
Yes. GSA compliance and Berry compliance are separate requirements. A product can be on the GSA schedule without meeting Berry Amendment sourcing requirements. When purchasing for DOD or military applications, always check for both designations if they are required.
What does the "new" designation mean?
The "New" designation on a product means it has recently been added to our catalog — it's a new item we've started carrying for the first time.
How is the "new" designation different from the "new color" designation?
"New" means the item itself is new to our catalog. "New Color" means the product is one we already carry, but a new colorway or finish has been added to the existing lineup.
How do pre-orders work?
Pre-orders allow you to reserve an item before it is officially released or back in stock. Your card will not be charged until the item ships. If you have questions about a specific pre-order's availability, contact us for the latest update.
What does the "preview" designation mean?
"Preview" items are upcoming products that are not yet available for purchase. They're listed on our site so you can see what's coming soon and plan ahead.
Do you offer uniform customization?
Yes! We offer embroidery services on many uniform items. Customization options are available on qualifying product pages. Note that customized items are not eligible for return. For large-volume customization needs, contact our Strategic Accounts team.
What does open box mean?
Open box items are products that have been returned, have damaged packaging, or are otherwise unable to be sold as new. They are inspected and confirmed functional, then sold at a discount. All open box sales are final — we cannot accept returns or exchanges on open box items.

Sizing

How do I measure my inseam?
Grab a pair of your best-fitting pants, lay them on a flat surface, and measure the inside from the crotch seam to the hem. Alternatively, have a friend measure you: stand in an upright, relaxed position and have them measure your right leg from the underside of the crotch to the bottom of your ankle, then repeat for the left leg.
Where can I find a size chart for specific products?
Size charts are available on individual product pages when provided by the manufacturer. Look for a "Size Chart" link near the size selector on the product page. If a size chart is not available, feel free to contact us and we'll do our best to help.
Do any products run larger/wider or smaller/narrower than usual?
Yes, some products have known fit variations. When this is the case, we'll note it in the product description — for example, "runs small, order one size up." If you're unsure about fit on a specific item, contact us and our team can advise based on experience with that product.