Work boots are an essential part of your workwear, and so you should choose one that can offer you the protection and support you need while carrying out your tasks. It is likely that you will be wearing this footwear for several hours a day and you would want to ensure they are comfortable and safe to use. The last thing you’d want is hurting feet, back pain or injuries resulting from wearing unsuitable work boots.
If you need a pair of work boots but didn’t know how to choose the right one for you, don’t worry. Here are the five essential features you should look for while shopping for work boots.
Good Fit
It is crucial that you choose a pair of boots that fit you properly. An ill-fitting boot will adversely affect your flexibility and comfort at work and might lead to painful blisters too. So, make sure you choose the correct size and fit. Here are some tips to remember while trying on your new work boots:
- Make sure they are not too tight or loose
- While trying a new work boot, wear the same type of socks that you will wear while on the job
- Test if the boot flexes at the ball of your feet
- Walk a few steps to see if it is comfortable
- Remember that your feet might swell during the day, and so your boots should accommodate that
- For the above-stated reason, trying on your work boots during the evening is recommended
If you plan to buy your work boots online, double-check the fitting or size guide, as different brands may offer slightly different sizes. You should also check the website’s return and exchange policies, so that if you end up with a pair of boots that do not quite fit you can return or exchange them.
If you plan to buy your work boots online, double-check the fitting or size guide, as different brands may offer slightly different sizes. You should also check the website’s return and exchange policies, so that if you end up with a pair of boots that do not quite fit you can return or exchange them.
Material
The material used to make your boots affect their durability, comfort, and flexibility. Work boots come in a wide range of materials such as leather, rubber, nylon, and plastic, to name a few. Each of these materials has its own pros and cons. You must choose a material that suits your work environment and application the best.
The most common and popular choice is because it is aesthetically pleasing, and offers better durability, flexibility, and protection. However, rubber boots are much preferred for jobs that need protection from the risk of electric shock. If you are on a tight budget, plastic boots might be a preferred option. However, they might not be able to withstand harsh environments and might prove to be less effective and safe. If you work in wet or dusty conditions, opt for water-resistant work boots. Most of the waterproof models are stain-resistant as well.
Sole
While buying your newest pair of work boots, always take a closer look at the sole of the boot. It is better to opt for slip-resistant soles as they offer enhanced safety against slipping. Furthermore, depending on the nature of your work, you may also need to go for acid and fireproof soles or slip oil-resistant soles. Also, ensure that the insole is well cushioned to offer you good comfort and fits well on your feet. The midsole offers support for your foot and ensures better durability and quality. It also acts as a shock absorber and reduces impact.
Safety features
While shopping for work boots, you should always check the safety features offered. Most worksites need you to wear boots that offer toe protection. So, choose boots with steel capped toes to protect your feet from potential harm, especially if you work with heavy or sharp items. However, if you work with magnets or metal detectors, steel caps can be the wrong choice for you. Also, steel-toed boots can feel very cold in the winter and too warm in the summer.
You can go for composite toe caps made from carbon fibre, plastic, or Kevlar as they offer the same protection as steel caps and will not be too cold or warm.
Comfort
It is important to go for a pair of work shoes you are comfortable wearing. Otherwise, your productivity and health will be adversely affected. To ensure maximum comfort, check if the shoes are well ventilated to allow your feet to remain dry the entire time you wear them.
If you are looking for good-quality work boots, RS Components has some amazing options at affordable prices.
