Work boots are an essential safety measure while working on any site. Your work boots can either make your work enjoyable or unbearable. You want to buy a pair of boots that fit, look great, and protect your feet from any potential hazards.
With so many makes and models in the market, purchasing the best work boots for your job can be a tricky affair. While there are many factors to consider while shopping for the most suitable work boots, choosing a pair to address your needs is easy.
This article explains a few factors to consider when choosing a pair of steel toe waterproof work boots.
Risks
There are various safety risks at any construction site. Therefore, you must run a risk assessment before you choose your steel toe waterproof work boots. A risk assessment will help reduce the risk of possible foot injuries and meticulously specify the characteristics you need in an effective pair of boots.
A proper risk assessment includes foot hazards such as:
- Electric shock.
- Slippery floors.
- Sharp objects, such as nails that could penetrate the boots.
- Contact or walking on hot surfaces.
- Ankle support for uneven ground.
- Heavy or sharp objects falling on your feet.
- Exposure to acids, corrosive fluids or molten metal.
This risk assessment will work as the foundation of the characteristics you need. It’s crucial to find a pair of boots that will protect you from as many risks as possible.
Material
Once you have identified the hazards, you must ensure the material of your work boots will adequately protect you against these risks. For example, if your workplace exposes you to acid, you need boots with a rubber compound and polymer toe caps. If the site is constantly flooded or exposes you to water, shop only for the best waterproof construction boots.
Comfort
Comfort is a vital factor that you should consider. Because if you spend around 12 hours a day in your work boots, you should go for an option that doesn’t make you feel uncomfortable during the day. Comfort is also essential in enhancing your performance at your workplace.
This is primarily the reason why lightweight work boots are preferred over traditional, steel cap toe safety boots. Lighter work boots prevent fatigue throughout the day.
Also, make sure the boots don’t pinch your feet. They should neither be too narrow nor too wide. If you feel the toe caps against your feet, the boots are not right for you.
Your insoles play a huge role in the comfort of your work boots. Most come with generic insoles that only serve you for a few days. Go for a pair of boots with well-structured insoles that provide maximum support for your feet all day long. You can also use socks that increase your comfort.
The rule of thumb is to prioritize safety first, comfort second, and style last. Don’t compromise your safety under any circumstances.
Best Fit
This seems rather obvious, but some people get it all wrong. Your boots are going to feel uneasy if they are the wrong size or fit. You should get the size and fit right because you’re going to be in your shoes the whole day.
If you’re buying online, it’s important to check the size charts and guides. Select a size that is perfect for your needs. Don’t forget to factor in the type of socks you will wear with your work boots. If you fail to consider this, it may fail to fit correctly. For example, thin socks will make your boots fit more loosely than thick socks.
Traction
The grip of your feet to the ground is important in any construction site. You ought to have a remarkable pair with rigid traction (rather than those without). Work boots without good grip puts you at risk of tripping, slipping and falling, which could lead to serious injury.
You will come across various outsole variations with various traction levels. For instance, you will find high-performance rubber soles that offer a good grip for rugged sites to make it easier to latch on to ladders.
In Conclusion
Finding the most suitable boots for use on a construction site needn’t be a complicated process.
Take your time to do a thorough risk assessment to identify every possible hazard your workplace presents. With that done, consider the materials that will best meet your needs. Don’t let uncomfortable work boots hinder your performance and finally, make sure it fits perfectly.
With those factors in place, you will enjoy every day you spend at the construction site.