McLEAN, VA — This might be the only time you'll be able to justify wearing work boots with a tuxedo.

The 2012 ATD Commercial Truck of the Year contenders have been announced by the American Truck Dealers (ATD).

"The nine trucks in the competition for 2012 are the most since the competition began four years ago," said Tom Berg, senior editor of Heavy Duty Trucking magazine and the contest's head judge.

The Class 8 truck entries are:

• Freightliner 114SD conventional dump truck

• International ProStar+ tractor with MaxxForce 15 engine

• Kenworth T660 Regional Hauler with Paccar MX engine

• Peterbilt 587 SmartWay conventional tractor

Class 3-7 are:

• Fuso Canter FE160 low cab forward

• Isuzu NPR-HD Gas

• Kenworth T440 Conventional

• Peterbilt Model 210 low cab forward

• UD 2600 low cab forward

Winners for both categories will be presented at the 2012 ATD Convention and Expo in Las Vegas February 3-6. nadaconventionandexpo.org

Back in October, four journalists test-drove the trucks in Dallas on an eight-mile course that included rural and highway driving.

"How the truck drives, such as steering and handling, has a big impact on the judging panel," Berg said.

The trucks were also judged on overall appearance, cab comfort, noise levels, roominess, ease of getting in and out of the truck, and convenience of maintenance.

You can check out pics of the trucks here.