Work boots are essential for people who perform manual tasks in harsh environments. However, buying work boots can be daunting, especially if you’re not familiar with their many different styles and features. In this blog post, we’ll take a look at some of the essential things you should look for when buying work boots. Keep reading to learn more.
Things To Keep In Mind Before Buying Work Boots
Here we have written some basic qualities of work boots. if you are purchasing new pair of work boots these few factors must be in.
Good Fit
The most important aspect of buying work boots is ensuring they’re a good fit for you. For maximum comfort, make sure your work boots fit well when you first try them on. They shouldn’t be too tight or too loose.
Work boots that are too tight can cause discomfort in your legs, and work boots that are too loose may fall off your feet. If your work boots have laces, ensure that they’re easy to tighten and loosen. Buying work boots that are too tight or too loose can lead to blisters and other foot problems.
Construction
How a boot is constructed directly impacts its performance. Manufacturers constantly innovate new methods to construct the perfect work boots. Two of the most popular construction methods are:
Cement Attachment: this means that the outsole is directly attached to the boot using an adhesive. Though they are inexpensive, they fall apart easily, and sadly, once broken they cannot be mended/replaced by a cobbler.
Goodyear Welt Attachment: this classic construction is still the most reliable. It involves stitching together the inner and upper soles through a welt (leather strip). Not only is it durable, but can be easily repaired/ replaced on wear and tear.
Some manufacturers like KEEN Utility have been able to combine these two methods, taking things to the next level. It uses the Goodyear welt with a cemented toe cap, making the boot more flexible and long-lasting.
Metatarsal Guards
Metatarsal Guards are an additional protective feature that protects the delicate metatarsal bones of your toe and the upper foot. It stands against the impact of heavy falling objects and at the same time offers protection against falling embers or hazardous substances. These metatarsal guards can be added to any regular footwear as well.
Soles
Most manufacturers aim at making soles that are long-lasting, strong as well as slip resistant. Three basic varieties available are Rubber, TPU, and EVA.
Rubber outsoles are the most common and popular ones, given their slip-resistant quality. They work efficiently in difficult terrains as well. Most manufacturers have started using their own propriety rubbers to offer the best services to their customers.
TPU: Thermo Poly Urethane outsoles are lightweight, chemical resistant, and durable as compared to their rubber counterparts.
EVA, ethylene vinyl acetate, is a soft and flexible foam-like material used to make midsoles. It cushions the foot and adds stability and comfort.
Safety Toes
Safety Toes are a basic requirement for most jobs in order to keep your toes protected. There are mainly three kinds of safety toes: Steel, Aluminum, and Composite.
Steel Toes: have been the erstwhile option to protect toes. They are stronger though heavier than the composite ones and can stand greater forces. Today, most manufacturers use asymmetrical steel toes to increase fit and comfort while reducing the bulk.
Aluminum Toes
They are comparatively lightweight, though quite thicker than the steel ones, and therefore do not make any compromise on the safety standard set by the steel toes.
Composite Toes
These are generally made of carbon fiber, plastic, or Kevlar and are the thickest and bulkiest of all. However, they are quite lightweight and are a great option for those whose worksite is metal-free. Kevlar fibers offer wonderful protection against fire as it doesn’t melt when heat is applied.
Puncture Plate
For those working at construction sites, a puncture plate is a must so that you don’t end up stepping on nails or glass. Puncture plates are a general safety feature that would be welcome in any work boot. It is usually located between the insole and midsole, providing support.
Insulated
Insulated Work Boots are a must if you are working in harsh weather conditions, particularly cold weather. They keep your feet warm, allowing you to fully focus on the work at hand. Insulation against severe colds is necessary irrespective of the fact that you are working outdoors or not.
Comfort
Buying shoes that fit right is absolutely important. You will be spending 8-10 hours in your work boots and if they are not comfortable, you will end up with a range of problems like blisters, corn, etc.
Make sure that the footwear is comfortable even when you are trying it for the first time. Do not expect it to stretch over time. While leather boots may get comfortable with time, the steel-toe safety cap would never!
Comfort and Durability Check out the interior of the boot. If your work boots have an interior lining, select one that is breathable and comfortable. A removable interior liner can allow you to clean the boot and prevent it from smelling bad. Light-weight synthetic leather is also a good option for interior lining work boots.
Waterproofing
There’s no point in buying an expensive pair of work boots if they’re not waterproof. Buy work boots that keep your feet dry even if you do work in the rain. A waterproof boot should be able to be completely submerged without water getting inside. Waterproof work boots also provide high-level protection from different types of liquid.
Slip Resistance
Finally, make sure your work boots are slip-resistant. If your work boots have steel toes, they will most likely have non-slip rubber soles. You can buy work boots with non-slip soles separately, so you can attach them where you think you need the most protection.
Regardless of your work boot needs, the right pair of work boots can last you for many years. Before buying work boots, check online reviews and user ratings. Happy shopping!
Weight
The lighter the boot, the more convenient it will be for you to walk around wearing them. Unless and until your work really requires some heavy-duty boots to protect against dangerous hazards, always try to look for boots that are not too bulky.
ANSI Approved
ANSI was established in 1918 to develop and improve national consensus standards and to provide a common focus for U.S. voluntary standardization efforts. In 1994, ANSI approved a new standard for athletic footwear called American National Standard for Athletic Footwear (ANSI Z41). When shopping for safety footwear, look for products bearing the ANSI Z41 stamp. This standard
Conclusion
So, now that you know what to look for when buying a pair of work boots, you’re ready to go shopping! We have explained some features that will help you find the best work boots that suit you. We hope this article has helped you find the perfect pair of work boots! Let us know in the comments – we’d love to hear about which pair you chose.
FAQ’s
The leather material is preferred by most people because it is the most durable and lasts longer. These boots are wholly manufactured from leather. There are people who are allergic to leather and prefer man-made materials. Man-made material is not as durable as leather material and therefore requires more maintenance.
Whether you prefer tight or loose boots depends on what you are going to use them for. Tight boots have a strong grip on the feet, so they are useful in some jobs that require climbing or walking on slippery surfaces. Loose boots, on the other hand, are not as slippery, so they are better in flat, stable areas. They are also more comfortable to wear, so they are ideal when you are working indoors.