The 4 Best USPS Approved Shoes for Mail Carriers

According to IBISWorld , there are 243,690 couriers & local delivery services businesses in the US in 2021. The postal business is growing, and so is the number of people employed in this industry.

Only United States Postal Service USPS employed 516,500 people in 2021. The total number of employees in the courier and local delivery service is staggering and is increasing day by day. It goes without saying that the postal mail service is one of the most important jobs in the country and is also one of the toughest.

One of the most important pieces of the attire of a mail courier is footwear. USPS employees must wear authorized shoes by the Postal Service. It requires employees to wear black leather shoes with a visible SR/USA label.

The right shoes are not only necessary to fulfill the requirements; they also keep your feet relaxed and comfortable. Being a mail carrier, you are on your feet all day. You will have to conquer rainwater, muddy walkways, rocks, snow, and God knows what! I want you to deliver mail in style and comfort and be the champ that you are!

Today I will review the best mail carrier shoes for you to buy in 2022. My selection is based on user reviews, USPS recommendations, weather conditions, brand worth, and reliability. This review has shoes for every mail carrier. Whether you are buying your first shoes or upgrading to a new one, I have got you covered.

Best USPS Approved Shoes for Mail Carriers

1. Reebok Work Men’s Postal Express CP8500 Work Boot

Features

Review: Reebok is one of the best shoes brands worldwide. Its shoes are known for durability, comfort, and style.

The USPS certified 100% leather work boot comes with Maxum-Lite polyurethane sole that is lightweight and delivers maximum traction on rough and slippery surfaces. The inside of the shoes is lined with MIL-33 moisture-wicking material that keeps your feet fresh for long times.

The feature I like most in these shoes is the removable PI-1000 cushion insert with shock eliminator heel cushion. It absorbs shocks and keeps your feet relaxed. You won’t even feel bumps in these shoes.

These shoes are metal-free, lightweight, and come with a soft toe. The outsole is a synthetic rubber and offers excellent protection against slip and oil and from abrasion and chemicals. It offers mediocre protection against heat and metal chips.

Besides mail carriers, factory workers who don’t need steel toe protection, clerks, field workers, and shop workers can also wear these shoes.

The laces style is also good. The shoelaces hold your feet snuggly against the standard-sized tongue.

User Feedback: The shoes get mixed reviews from the buyers. The biggest complaint about these shoes is the price. These shoes are costly compared to other USPS-approved work boots/shoes. USPS CCAs recommend these shoes for fall and winter periods. They walk more than 10 miles, and many of them prefer these shoes.

Some people mention that these shoes need breaking in. You may experience several raw spots on your feet before they break-in. However, once they break-in, these shoes are the best of the lot.

Pros

• Comfortable
• High-quality materials
• Flawless stitching

Cons

• Expensive
• Rough until they break-in

2. New Balance Women’s USPS Certified Walking Shoe

Features

Review: This shoe is best for women postal carriers who walk a lot. The 100% leather shoe offers comfort and protection for the sensitive feet of women. Women’s feet are different by nature, and this is why they need more comfort and protection when exposed to long walking times.

The shoes are built with ROLLBAR technology, a compression-resistant midsole cushion, a polyurethane outsole, and breathable leather upper to keep up with your daily grind.

The midsole provides maximum comfort that you will not get in any other shoes. It provides a kickback to your feet so that you keep going for long walking times. The polyurethane outsole protects against external elements and gives strong traction and slip resistance.

I suggest these shoes because they are durable and offer maximum stability due to a stable outsole design. These shoes are not too good for extreme weather, but they offer some protection from rainwater and snow.

The shoes have a simple design with standard laces. The shoe tongue is slightly big, but it won’t bother you much and keep the upper side of your feet warm and protected.

One of the best features of these shoes is a premium foam insert built with high-density open-cell foam. It conforms gently to your feet and helps disperse pressure, keeping your feet lightweight and relaxed.

User Feedback: User reviews reveal that the price tag is worth it. The materials used in the making and the level of comfort these shoes provide justify the high price tag. USPS workers rate the shoes as excellent. One buyer mentions that her foot aches disappeared miraculously after she started wearing the shoes to work.

The common complaints are about the appearance of the shoe. These shoes are not fashionable and stylish, but I can’t help you here; all USPS-approved shoes have a manly appearance.

Pros

• Best value of money
• Comfortable
• Well-built

Cons

• Sizing issues

3. Rocky Tmc Postal-Approved Plain Toe Oxford Shoe for Men

Features

Review: If you are looking for lightweight SR/USA postal-approved shoes with maximum comfort and durability, then you don’t need to look any further. Rocky TMC plain toe oxford style shoes are one of the most stylish and yet comfortable postal shoes you will ever find.

The shoes are made from 100% pure leather and feature a rubber sole. Please note that these shoes are not made in the USA. They are imported but meet all the standards specified by US Postal Service.

The heel measures approximately 1.5 inches, and the platform measures 1 inch. The shoes don’t have any metallic stabilizer. The outsole has been designed keeping in view the needs of mail carriers as they have to walk for long times and frequently encounter slippery terrains and rough patches.

I like these shoes because of their lightweight design and full-grain weather-resistant leather. I recommend these shoes to all mail carriers for summer and moderate climates. These shoes are not very good for winter and cold areas.

The TPU/PU outsole is slip and oil-resistant. You have nothing to fear for your long and tough postal job with these shoes.

User Feedback: Most buyers are buying these shoes for the second or third time. I don’t need to say anything else about these shoes. The oxford style of these shoes makes them best for outdoor use, casual gatherings, hangouts, light hiking trails, and many more occasions.

The most common issue raised by many buyers is the lace quality. They mention that the shoelaces are not the same quality as the rest of the shoes.

Pros

• Oxford style
• Best for hot weathers
• Lightweight
• Good price point

Cons

• Poor quality laces
• Not best for winters

4. Rocky TMC Postal-Approved Women’s Chukka Duty Boot

Features

Review: This one is best for all the women who want footwear in-between a shoe and a boot. I would recommend Rocky USPS-approved Chukka duty boots to all the women who like the grip and protection of work boots but want lightweight work shoes.

The 100% leather shoes come with a rubber sole for maximum grip and protection. The best thing I like about these shoes is the additional ankle protection. The extended rubber circle around the ankle keeps your feet gripped snuggly and provides maximum comfort to ankle bone and legs.

The leather used in the making is full-grain, 100% breathable, and weather resistant. Please note that these shoes are not waterproof but can resist a certain amount of water.

The cushioned foot bed is made with an Aegis microbe shield for maximum comfort and energy dissipation. These shoes are high-heeled. They measure 6 inches in height and have a thick outsole. If you like a big outsole, I recommend you don’t buy them.

User Feedback: The reviews and ratings are good for these shoes. Buyers find this shoe to provide a good value of money. They rate it alongside New Balance and Reebok, but it is way more affordable than both brands.

One reviewer states that she quit the USPS job due to some personal reasons, but she is glad that she bought these shoes as they have made her life easy and made her walk comfortably. Some buyers mention that the shoes need time to break in, but once you get them molded to your feet, the shoes get very comfortable.

Pros

• Good price point
• Comfortable
• Ankle support

Cons

• Too wide for some feet

5. Bates Men’s Bates Lites 6 Inch Uniform Leather Chukka

 

Features

Review: This lightweight chukka boot is yet another high-quality postal service entry in my list of best shoes for mail carriers. The shoes are made with 100% pure leather, which is breathable and durable. It can withstand the test of weather and harsh conditions and will go a long way with you.

The rubber sole is best for conquering different terrains, and the heel provides ample support for your feet. Please note that the sole of these work boots is like formal shoes. Don’t buy these shoes if you don’t like a flat sole with a heel.

The shoes provide good support to your ankles and keep your feet relaxed and safe from water and snow. The 6-inch long lace-up shaft is one of its best features. I like these shoes because they are lightweight and still offer maximum protection and support like a typical work boot.

The breathable moisture-wicking internal lining keeps your feet relaxed and sweat-free for long working hours. The removable cushioned insert amps up the comfort and help you cover the extra mile your job demands.

User Feedback: A majority of the buyers give full marks to these shoes when it comes to comfort, fitting, and durability. People express their satisfaction with words like “the best uniform shoes you can ever buy.” Apart from mail carriers, people working in restaurants, factories, hospitals, and retail stores also use these shoes and are very happy about their purchases.

Some buyers have reported a dip in the quality in recent years.

Pros

• Long lace-up shaft
• Lightweight
• Good ankle protection

Cons

• Decreasing quality over years

6. Reebok Women’s Chukka Boots

Features

Review: This shoe is the women’s variant of Reebok’s CP8500 USPS-approved work boot. I have already reviewed the men’s variant above. Now I will highlight the major features of this shoe.

These shoes are made from 100% pure leather to withstand harsh weather conditions and keep your feet protected and relaxed during long working hours. The ankle area is soft and cushioned to give maximum support to your ankle and lower legs and reduce lower leg pains.

The inside of the shoes is lined with a MIL-33 moisture-wicking lining that keeps the feet sweat-free. The insole is a PI-1000 cushion footbed with a shock eliminator heel cushion. The insole is removable, giving you the freedom to replace it with your favorite insole or doctor-recommended insole for extended comfort.

The outsole is Maxum-Lite™ polyurethane which provides traction and excellent gripping strength against slippery surfaces and oil. The outsole is rated good against metal chips, heat and excellent against abrasion and chemicals.

User Feedback: Reebok shoes are very well received by the buyers. They are costly than the lot, but their features are also above the rest of the shoes you will find in the market. These shoes last for a good amount of time and the best thing about them, according to user reviews, is that they never hurt your feet.

7. Rocky Men’s Postal TMC 8″-M

Features

Review: USPS carriers are working hard to deliver packages and letters. They have to conquer snow, rainwater, and muddy streaks. I respect them for their dedication and commitment to their work. If you are one of the mail carriers who have to navigate snow and water and work in a cold area, these shoes are best for you.

Rocky’s USPS-approved shoes have an 8-inch laced shaft that guarantees maximum protection for your feet, ankles, and lower legs. Anything below 8-inches will not be able to harm you during your work.

The 100% leather shoes with rubber outsole promise maximum protection and comfort for your feet.

These shoes are USPS approved; they are Berry compliant as well. Rocky’s 8-inch leather shoes don’t have any metal parts in them. They come with an Aegis microbe shield cushion foot bed for maximum cushioning and comfort to your feet.

The TPU/PU outsole delivers stability and flexibility and provides slip and oil resistance. A good sole with maximum traction is the need for big boots. If they don’t provide a good grip, there is no reason to buy such costly work boots. Don’t worry; I have included these shoes in my list because they are among the best anti-slip work boots.

User Feedback: USPS employees love these boots. The buyers mention that these shoes provide them the energy to keep going for long working hours and walk miles. One buyer states that he works in North Dakota and has to encounter ice almost all the year. These shoes keep his feet warm, relaxed, and frost-free.

Apart from USPS employees, many people working in factories, restaurants, and outdoor jobs use these shoes. The most common reservation is the high price. However, the price hike is justified, considering the structure and built quality of the shoes.

Pros

• Long shaft
• Best for winters and colder climates
• Super comfortable
• Excellent traction

Cons

• Expensive

Best Non-USPS Approved Mail Carrier Shoes

1. Nike Men’s Air Monarch IV Cross Trainer

Features

Review: Many local courier businesses don’t require you to wear a specific kind of footwear. It is up to you to take care of your feet during long working hours. The best thing about these shoes is that you can wear them casually, for running and outdoor gatherings.

Nike needs no introduction. It has been rated as the best sports and casual shoe brand for decades. Its men’s Air Monarch IV Cross Trainer is ample testimony to the brand being number 1 in walking and running shoes.

I like these shoes for many reasons; first, they are extremely comfortable. Second, you can wear them to any place you like, third, they are easy to clean and last a long time.

The leather upper features overlays for support and perforations for improved airflow. The shoes have a phylon midsole and full-length encapsulated air-sole for maximum cushion and comfort. The midsole provide the support you need for walking for prolonged times.

The rubber outsole is solid and provides ample protection from shocks and jerks. It gives nice traction over various surfaces and works great in rainwater and muddy places. However, please note that these shoes are not good for winter. They have a low arch, and they will not protect your ankle from cold.

The shoes come with a wearing assist and easy-to-tie laces.

User Feedback: Many buyers praise these shoes with words like the best sneakers they have ever worn. People involved in jobs like mail carriers, home inspectors, factory workers, restaurants are very satisfied with their purchases.

The only issue with these shoes is that they get noisy on wooden surfaces. So, if you work a lot on wooden surfaces, you may better stay away from these shoes.

Pros

• Lightweight
• Comfortable
• Highly breathable

Cons

• Porous: wind and water penetrate easily

2. Timberland PRO 6IN Direct Attach Men’s, Soft Toe, MaxTrax Slip Resistant, WP Boot

Features

Review: This work boot is best for people who work in colder climates. The 6-inch long and rubber sole shoes have a waterproof leather upper that is best for keeping rainwater and snow away from your feet.

I like these shoes for their comfort and warmth. Even if the temperature falls below the freezing point, your feet will be warm inside. The shoes come with anti-fatigue technology. It is a Timberland copyright feature designed with shock-absorbing, geometrical technology that returns energy to your feet to deliver all-day support and comfort.

The leather has been seam-sealed for durable waterproofing. Moreover, special tanning repels moisture for waterproof protection. Another good thing I like about these shoes is electrical hazard protection. It protects your feet from live electrical circuits, electrically energized conductors, parts, or apparatus. The shoes meet ASTM F2412-18a, ASTM F2413-18, ASTM F2892-18 and CAN/CSA-Z195-14 standards.

The shoes feature an insulated lining built for comfort and retaining heat. These shoes are best for colder climates.

The design and appearance of the shoes are great. The sole provides excellent grip and tractions against slippery surfaces, and you can conquer all types of terrains with these shoes.

User Feedback: These shoes have some issues. First of all, they last for around 8-10 months if you wear them daily and walk for 8-10 miles in them. Second, some buyers experienced sizing issues, but the manufacturer immediately solved these.

The good thing about these shoes is their comfort and warmth.

Pros

• Excellent cushioning
• Maximum protection for your feet
• Good lacing system

Cons

• Not very long-lasting
• Heavyweight

3. New Balance Women’s 577 V1 Lace-up Walking Shoe

Features

Review: These non-USPS-approved shoes are best for women working in private courier companies. The shoes are best for hotter climate regions as they are highly breathable and lightweight.

The shoes feature a rubber sole that gives mediocre traction and grip against slippery surfaces. The best thing I like about these shoes is the adzorb cushioning in the heel for exceptional shock absorption. You won’t feel any bumps or jerks while wearing these shoes.

The leather upper features perforations for better breathability and keeping your feet sweat-free. It has a polyurethane midsole for stable cushioning and reflective accents to catch the light.

User Feedback: These are one of the best everyday shoes for women. The shoes are lightweight, comfortable, and easy to wear and take off. Above all, they are best for mail carriers working in hotter climate regions. These shoes will not sweat your feet and keep you energized throughout a long working day.

Some buyers have experienced sizing problems with these shoes. Make sure you check the narrow/wide fit before ordering one for yourself.

Pros

• Good quality leather
• Impressive feet support

Cons

• Fitting problems
• A little bulky

4. Skechers for Work Women’s Gozard Slip Resistant Walking Shoe

Features

Review: If your mail carrier job is limited only to urban areas and you don’t encounter muddy streaks and rough terrains, these shoes are a great option. The Skechers for work is a perfect fit for all the women who want style and comfort in one shoe.

The shoes are made from mesh and rubber. They are best for working in hotter climate regions as they have many perforations that keep your feet relaxed and sweat-free during long working hours.

The sole of the shoes is made from rubber and provides good traction and grip. These shoes feature memory foam for a more relaxing fit. The memory foam contours to the shape of your feet, and you get the same comfort every time your wear the shoes.

These shoes are easy to get in and out of as they don’t feature laces. You can also wear these shoes to casual gatherings and parties.

User Feedback: One buyer recommends these shoes to people suffering from foot pains as these shoes are very comfortable and will keep your feet relaxed for a long time. People praise the outsole as well. They say that these shoes fit perfectly all right so you must order your usual size.

The only problem users mention is that these shoes usually last for 8-10 months. The comfort level starts to drop after wearing these shoes for 8-10 months.

Pros

• Lightweight
• Highly breathable

Cons

• Last only for 8-10 months

Best Shoes for Mail Carriers Buying Guide

A mail carrier walks around 10-12 miles in one day. Have you ever wondered why the majority of the mail carriers are smart and fit? They walk a lot and are on their feet all day long. To successfully conquer this challenging task, you need quality footwear.

To ensure that you have the best shoes for your job, you must know what factors to consider before making the purchase. Let’s check them out.

Safety and Comfort

Before buying mail carrier shoes, the most important feature to consider is safety and comfort. Your shoes must be able to keep your feet safe from external elements like sunlight, heat, water, snow, and cold.

To confirm all these features are present in the shoe or not, go through the product description or review section. Apart from providing safety features, the shoes must be comfortable.

If you don’t know how to check the boots, simply go with a USPS-approved shoe. I have reviewed the best USPS-approved work shoes for mail carriers currently available in the market. You can check the USPS-approved uniform combinations here.

Type of Weather

I recommend buying mail carrier shoes as per the weather conditions you are working in. If you work in colder regions, I suggest choosing heavy-duty work boots.

For tropical and hotter regions, lightweight shoes are best. They will keep your feet sweat and moisture-free.

Fitting

When buying shoes online, you have to be extra careful while selecting the size. The best way to confirm that shoes will fit correctly is to measure your foot and then order as per the width of your foot.

Traction

Traction and grip are very important when you walk for longer times. As a mail carrier, you will encounter rainwater, snow, rough terrains, and slippery garages, so you must buy shoes that have good traction and offer excellent protection against water and oil.

Cushioning

Cushioning relates to the features inside your shoe. I always check what cushioning shoes offer before making the purchase. Apart from cushioning, midsole and liner also play a critical role in making your shoes comfortable.

Durability

You will be wearing your shoes daily, and there is a high chance that these shoes will wear out sooner than expected. So make sure that you get a durable pair of shoes even if you have to spend more on them. However, you must take care of your shoes to extend your life. Regular cleaning, drying and keeping them odor-free help increase the life of shoes.

Weight

I suggest you check the weight of the shoes as well. I don’t want you to carry heavy-weight shoes all day and then experience foot pain after work. However, you will have to wear heavyweight shoes if you work in colder regions.

FAQs

How can I check if the shoes are USPS approved?

All USPS-approved shoes have a tag mentioning “SR/USA.” If you find this tag, the shoes are USPS-approved.

What qualities does a USPS-approved shoe have?

They are made from water-resistant black leather uppers and have polyurethane soles. The leather upper is water-resistant, and the sole is oil and slip-resistant.

USPS evaluates these shoes from time to time to ensure that these brands are maintaining good quality.

How can I maintain my mail carrier shoes?

Shoe care begins immediately after purchase. First of all, you must wear right-sized shoes to limit the force exerted by your feet. Second, always wear high-quality moisture-wicking socks with your shoes to keep the inside of the shoes dry.

You should never leave your socks inside the shoes and dry your shoes after work. Moreover, try to wipe your shoes if you step in water or your shoes get covered in debris and dust.

Is it a good idea to buy two pairs of mail carrier shoes?

Yes. It is a great idea to buy two work boots if you can afford them. I would recommend going with identical shoes as different shoes will not adjust to your feet in the same way.

If you have two pairs of shoes, you can wear them alternatively. It will keep your shoes dry and odor-free and also enhance the life of your shoes.

Final Words

Shoe comfort and safety are most important as a mail carrier. Your job and earnings depend on the well-being of your feet. I have reviewed the best USPS-approved and non-USPS approved shoes above. You can select one based on your liking.