Whether you’re a construction worker, a firefighter, a policeman, or a janitor, foot protection is important to perform your job deftly. Work boots that are cramped or do not fit well can affect your performance or pose a risk for workplace injuries. It is therefore important to buy work boots that are appropriate to ensure your safety.
There are plenty of options, and choosing the right one can be exhausting. Fortunately, brands like oliver work boots offer a wide range of safety shoes for different industries that ensure total comfort, superior performance and are built to last. But before you buy a new pair of work boots, here are a few things to consider to help you find the ideal pair for comfort and safety.
Know Your Job’s Essentials
Different industries present different work hazards. The more dangerous a job is, the higher the chance for serious foot injuries. That is why there are guidelines on gear and safety equipment to keep you protected. Knowing your job requirements and the safety guidelines will help you decide what kind of work boots you would need.
For example, if your work demands you to be exposed to chemicals, you might need an anti-slip and anti-perforation sole. On the other hand, if you work in the agriculture industry, you might need rubber work boots that are waterproof and can protect you from toxic fertilisers, solvents, and other disinfectants. Vessi offers economical deals on this kind of shoe.
Boot Fit
Getting a pair of boots that fit accurately will ensure that you stay comfortable working all day. Being at ease will result in higher efficiency and flexibility while you are working. Make sure that your work boots are not too tight or loose.
If they are not the right size, wearing them could cause irritation and pain, lead to blister formation, and have more severe implications in the long term. Different brands have slight variations in sizing. Fortunately, well-established brands like oliver work boots have individual sizing charts you can refer to when buying.
To check for the fit, follow these tips when trying on work boots:
- Wear the same work socks you usually wear on the job.
- Check the length. Your toes should contact the front of the foot, while there should be an index finger width connecting your heel and the back of the shoe.
- Tie the laces. They should prevent your foot from sliding to the front.
Toe Protection
It is important to make certain that you have the right type of protection for the job. Therefore the type of safety toes should match your work requirements and environment. There are three varieties of safety toes available – steel, aluminium, and composite.
Steel toe boots are the most common type of safety boots and prevent a wide range of injuries. It is most commonly used by workers at construction sites giving them protection from falling objects of up to 75 pounds.
Aluminium safety toe boots are lighter but offer more space to breathe than steel because the metal strip is thinner than steel, making it more comfortable if you move around a lot during work.
Composite toe boots contain no metal and are made from plastic, carbon fibre, and rubber, making them 33% lighter than steel toe boots. They are suited for people who go through metal detectors, such as security personnel.
Sole Type
Another important factor to consider when buying work boots is the type of sole it has because choosing the right sole for your kind of work ensures your safety. If you are working in construction, your boot should have an anti-slip and anti-perforation sole. If your work exposes you to chemicals, your boot should be acid and fire-proof.
There are three different types of soles: rubber, thermoplastic polyurethane (TPU), and ethylene-vinyl acetate (EVA). Rubber is the most common material and offers slip resistance. TPU soles are more elastic and best suited for those who work in rugged terrain. EVA provides more cushioning and is an excellent choice for those who suffer from knee and back pain.
Construction
The way your boots were constructed, especially how your sole is attached, is also an important factor and will have a huge impact on your safety. There are two main types of construction, cement and welting.
Cement construction involves fastening the upper part of the boot to the sole using molten rubber. It produces lightweight work boots and is best suited for people with lick work duties. Welting construction is more durable because it involves stitching the upper part of the boot to the sole making them perfect for people who do a lot of climbing and walking.
With all the choices out there, buying a new pair of work boots can seem like a daunting task. But in reality, choosing the perfect one is simple. First, you have to know how to use your work boots and find a pair with features that meet your work’s requirements while keeping your feet comfortable.
