NORTIV 8 WorkNano Boots and Wide Toe Box Hiking Shoes Review: Waterproof Comfort and Surprising Quality Without the High Price

I have seen NORTIV 8 shoes on sale for a while and wanted to try them, but I thought they couldn’t possibly last long since they were so cheap. That is the misconception they are trying to fix, though. The “8” in their name stands for the eight essential traits that define their gear: traction, comfort, weather resistance, fit, durability, support, adaptability, and value. They want to make more affordable rugged footwear, and I think they are doing that very well after testing these out.

NORTIV 8 Men’s WorkNano Boots

NORTIV 8 Men’s WorkNano Composite Toe Waterproof Work Boots

I received the NORTIV 8 Men’s WorkNano Boots in black, but they are also available in dark brown and black/orange. They combine ASTM-certified slip resistance, arch support, and responsive Expanded Thermoplastic Polyurethane (ETPU) cushioning for steady, cushioned comfort on hard concrete floors. At 19.61 oz per shoe (size 9) they offer lightweight toe protection and max cushion helps reduce fatigue.

• Material: Polyurethane & Oxford Upper
• Weight: Size 9, 19.21 oz per shoe
• Weight: Size 11, 22.2 oz per shoe
• Weight: Size 12, 22.7 oz per shoe
• Waterproofness: Waterproof Membrane
• Protection Certification: ASTM F2413-24 I/C Nano ToeSlip Certification: ASTM F2413-24 SR Slip Resistant
• Electrical Certification: ASTM F2413-24 EH Electric Hazard

Performance

Fellow Gear Diary reviewer Garry just reviewed a pair of ALLSWIFIT ActiveSolid athletic shoes in size 11.5W and couldn’t stop praising them, so I decided to try the NORTIV 8 WorkNanos. I wear a size 11.5, so when NORTIV 8 told me the WorkNanos don’t come in half sizes above 11, I was a little disappointed, but I figured I would try the 12s rather than risk them being too small.

I put an extra set of insoles in to take up a little of the extra room and got walking. Overall, I love the WorkNano’s. They are super comfortable, and between work and disc golf I can walk up to 25,000 steps in a busy day.

These were comfortable all day and didn’t need breaking in, and they kept my feet dry even when I walked through the woods, wet grass, and brush. The soles are very grippy on multiple surfaces, and I always felt sure-footed.

I found the NORTIV 8 Men’s WorkNano Composite Toe Waterproof Work Boots comfortable all day right out of the box and with great wet traction. Since they are waterproof, I can go straight from work to the disc golf course without worrying about sore or wet feet.

Unfortunately, the 12s were a little bigger than I would like, and I mentioned that to NORTIV 8. After I measured my feet, they were kind enough to send me another pair in size 11, along with their Men’s Wide Toe Box Waterproof Hiking Shoes in 11 to try and compare sizing.

After measuring my left and right foot, I got 284mm long and 105mm wide for my left foot, and my right was a little smaller at 282mm long and 101mm wide, which isn’t uncommon. The sizing guide shows size 11 heel-to-toe at 279mm, plus or minus 3mm. The size 11 width is 102mm plus or minus 3mm.

Not surprisingly, the 11 Wide sizing guide shows heel-to-toe at the same length of 279mm plus/minus 3mm, but the width is a tad more at 105mm plus/minus 3mm. If you are between sizes like me, I would recommend measuring your feet and even if are slightly over like I was by 2mm I would go smaller and give it a try first or try the wide variation. I found the WorkNano 11s fit perfectly.

On the hiking shoes, my left big toe was close to the front but didn’t rub. They were comfortable, and I had no issues walking and biking around the city all day. I do wish half sizes above 11 were available, but if you measure carefully, I’m sure you’ll find a size that works for you.

When I don’t need toe protection, I will definitely be wearing the Wide Toe Hiking Shoes. They are very similar to some Altra’s that I have but are waterproof and actually have a slightly wider toe box, which I like.

I have heard that since Altra was bought by VF Corporation in 2018, the designs have changed and may not be as wide as they once were. My latest pair does seem narrower than previous shoes I’ve had, so if you are a wide toe box fan, then you should check out what NORTIV 8 has to offer.

NORTIV 8 Men’s Wide Toe Box Waterproof Hiking Shoes

The NORTIV 8 Men’s Work Nano Composite Toe Waterproof Work Boots retail for $72.99, while the Wide Toe Box Waterproof Hiking Shoes retail for $63.99 and come in three colors (black, light brown, and olive).  You can get both in whole and half sizes from 7-11, then whole sizes only up to 14.

I have been very surprised by the quality of these shoes, and I am now a fan. NORTIV 8 has many other styles to choose from, so they are definitely worth checking out if you are looking for quality footwear under $100.

The Bottom Line

I really like the NORTIV8 WorkNano work boots and the Wide Toe Box Hiking Shoes. If you need work boots, sandals, hiking shoes, or even running shoes, check out NORTIV 8, especially since all their women’s shoes are under $75 and men’s options are under $90, proving you can still get quality footwear without breaking the bank.

The NORTIV 8 WorkNano Work Boots retail for $72.99 and are available directly from the manufacturer or other retailers, including Amazon. The Men’s Waterproof Wide Toe Hiking Boots are also available directly from the manufacturer and from Amazon.

Source: Manufacturer-supplied review sample.

What I like: Super comfy; Accurate sizing guide; Waterproof; Great traction; Great quality; Light for composite toe boots

What Needs Improvement: More color options and ½ sizes above 11 would be nice