Work boots are an important part of your work wear wardrobe. If you’re in the market for work boots, you probably have a range of considerations, the least of which are the safety compliance requirements for your workplace. The range of work boots available on the market might be overwhelming so here are some of the essential considerations you should be taking into account.
1. Boot Fit
Getting boots that fit properly is critical for both comfort and safety. Picking the correct size will make sure that you stay comfortable and flexible while you are working. Different brands might have slight variations in sizing, so you have to check with their individual sizing charts. Remember, you won’t get a good fit if you rush the fitting process.
Work boots can be expensive and you don’t want to fork out hundreds of dollars for boots that hurt your feet. Make sure they are not too tight or too loose - wearing footwear that is too big or too small can cause blisters in the short term but can have more serious implications for foot health in the long term.
Make sure you follow these tips when trying on boots:
- Wear socks that you are going to wear on the job.
- Check the length.
- Tie the laces and see if they keep your foot in place.
- Make sure the boot flexes at the ball of your foot.
- Keep in mind that your feet are going to swell during the day.
2. Construction Material For The Uppers
The material that the uppers of your boots are constructed from will have a big impact on their durability. Various types of materials are used in the construction of work boots, and each of them has its own sets of benefits. When your choosing work boots, determine which material best suits your work environment. In some cases, the work site may mandate the materials to be used.
Leather is the most popular material for work boots. It is expensive, however it is preferred by many due to its level of protection and durability. Other materials can include nylon, rubber, and plastic.
3. Sole Type
Another factor to consider is the type of sole. Choosing the right sole for your kind of work is paramount. For example, if you work in construction, your boot sole should be slip-resistant and if you work in the chemical industry, the soles will need to be acid and fire proof.
Work boots come with three different types of soles.
Rubber sole: Rubber is the most common material for the sole. They provide for both comfort and slip resistance. Rubber soles are extremely useful if you work in a damp or wet environment.
Thermoplastic polyurethane (TPU): These soles are more elastic, last longer and are often lighter than typical rubber soles. TPU soles are best for you if you work in rugged terrain.
Ethylene-vinyl acetate (EVA): Soles made with EVA provides more cushioning than any other soles. If you suffer from back or knee pain, work boots with these soles are an excellent choice.
4. Toe Protection
Many work places require boots with toe protection, most commonly steel capped toes.
Steel toes are an excellent addition to your work boots if you deal with heavy objects and do a marvellous job of protecting your feet from harm.
There are also other materials used for toe protection which may an appropriate alternative for your requirements.
Safety toes are usually made from one of three materials:
Steel: Steel caps are common and reliable but if you work with metal detectors or magnet they might not be appropriate. Also, steel is a temperature conductor so your feet could be quite cold in winter.
Aluminium: These are similar to steel caps, although aluminium is softer and doesn’t offer the same level of protection. Aluminium caps are generally thicker than steel caps.
Composite: Made from plastic, carbon fibre or Kevlar, these caps won’t get cold in the winter and hot in the summer and may offer similar levels of protection as a steel caps.
5. Cost
Price is likely to be an influential factor when you buy work boots. High quality work boots are expensive so you might want to look at a cheaper option but there is a risk that the boots will not last long and will not offer the protection that you need.
That said, the most expensive boots are not always the best. The cost of work boots varies with the design and the type of work boot. Make sure you read the reviews and compare prices so that you get good value for money.
It’s essential to buy a work boot that can keep you comfortable and safe. Work boots are a requirement for any job where you have to work with large equipment or chemicals. Do your homework and you will end up buying the best pair of work boots to suit your work requirements and keep your feet comfortable.
