Understanding Safety Shoes

What types are available? What are their differences?

• By Ben Julian
• Sep 10, 2024

Safety shoes that meet ASTM F2413 requirements are an essential part of personal protective equipment (PPE) in various industries. They are designed to protect the feet from a wide range of hazards, including falling objects, sharp items, electrical risks and slippery surfaces. Let’s explore the different types of safety shoes available and highlight their unique features and uses, along with standards they should meet.

Steel Toe Shoes

Steel toe shoes are among the most common types of safety footwear. They have a reinforced steel toe cap that protects the toes from impact and compression injuries. Key Features:

• Toe protection. The steel toe cap can withstand significant impact and compression forces.

• Durability. Steel is durable with long-lasting protection.

• Weight. Steel toe shoes are generally heavier than other types of safety shoes.

• Applications. Steel toe shoes are ideal for construction sites, manufacturing plants and any environment where there is a risk of heavy objects falling on the feet. Many assume that steel toe shoes cannot be used around electrical hazards. However, as long as the steel toe cap is insulated, the steel toe will not conduct electricity.

Composite Toe Shoes

Composite toe shoes provide similar protection to steel toe shoes but use non-metal materials like Kevlar, carbon fiber or plastic. Key Features:

• Lightweight. Composite materials are lighter than steel, making the shoes more comfortable for all-day wear on the job.

• Non-conductive. They do not conduct electricity, making them suitable for electrical environments.

• Temperature resistance. Composite toe shoes do not get as cold or hot as steel toe shoes in extreme temperatures, making for a better option for applications such as foundry work or cold storage.

• Applications. These shoes are suitable for environments where metal detectors are used, and for electrical work where non-conductive footwear is required.

Alloy Toe Shoes

Alloy toe shoes use lighter metals such as aluminum or titanium to provide toe protection. Key Features:

• Lightweight. Alloys are lighter than steel but still offer strong protection.

• Slim profile. Alloy toe caps are often thinner, allowing for a more comfortable fit.

• Durability. They offer high strength and durability.

• Applications. Alloy toe shoes are preferred in industries requiring lightweight footwear with robust protection, such as logistics and warehousing.

Metatarsal Guard Shoes

These shoes offer additional protection to the upper part (top) of the foot, not just the toes. Key Features:

• Extended protection. They protect the metatarsal bones from impact and compression.

• Variety of materials. Guards can be made from materials like aluminum, steel, or composites.

• Comfort. Modern designs ensure the metatarsal guards do not hinder movement or comfort.

• Applications. Metatarsal guard shoes are used in industries with a high risk of foot injuries, such as mining, heavy manufacturing, and foundries.

Electrical Hazard (EH) Shoes

EH shoes are designed to protect wearers from electrical hazards. Key Features:

• Non-conductive soles. They are made with insulating materials to prevent electric shocks.

• ASTM standards. They meet or exceed ASTM standards for electrical hazard protection.

• Versatility. Available in various styles, including boots and low-cut shoes.

• Applications. These shoes are essential for electricians, maintenance workers, and others who work in environments with electrical hazards.

Puncture-Resistant Shoes

These shoes are designed to prevent sharp objects from penetrating the sole. Key Features:

• Steel or composite plates. They have puncture-resistant plates embedded in the soles.

• Flexibility. Despite the protective plates, they are designed to be flexible and comfortable.

• Variety of styles. Available in both boots and low-cut shoe designs.

• Applications. Puncture-resistant shoes are crucial for construction workers, landscapers, and anyone working in environments with sharp objects on the ground.

Slip-Resistant Shoes

Slip-resistant shoes are designed to provide superior traction on slippery surfaces. Key Features:

• Specialized soles. They have outsoles made from rubber or other materials that provide excellent grip.

• Tread patterns. Unique tread patterns enhance traction on wet and oily surfaces.

• Comfort and support. They often come with additional cushioning and arch support for long shifts.

• Applications. These shoes are ideal for the food service industry, hospitals, and any workplace with slippery floors.

Waterproof and Insulated Shoes

Waterproof and insulated shoes are designed to protect the feet from wet and cold conditions. Key Features:

• Waterproof materials. Made from materials that prevent water from entering the shoe.

• Insulation. They include insulating materials to keep feet warm in cold environments.

• Breathability. Modern designs ensure that they are also breathable to prevent sweating.

• Applications. These shoes are suitable for outdoor work, such as construction, farming and jobs in cold, wet environments.

ESD (Electro-Static Dissipative) Shoes

ESD shoes are designed to protect sensitive electronic equipment from static electricity. Key Features:

• Conductive soles. Made from materials that dissipate static electricity.

• Comfort. They are designed for all-day wear, providing cushioning and support.

• Certification. They meet industry standards for electrostatic discharge protection.

• Applications. These shoes are essential in electronics manufacturing, assembly lines and laboratories handling sensitive electronic components.

Finding Comfort in Occupational Foot Protection

Polyurethane-based insoles in safety shoes offer several advantages that enhance both comfort and functionality, making them a popular choice for various work environments. One of the primary benefits of polyurethane (PU) insoles is their exceptional cushioning, which provides superior shock absorption. This is particularly important in high-impact work environments, as it helps reduce foot fatigue and discomfort during long shifts. PU insoles are also known for their durability and resilience, maintaining their shape and supportive properties even after prolonged use, unlike memory foam. Additionally, they are lightweight, which contributes to the overall comfort of the safety shoes without adding unnecessary weight. 

The material’s flexibility allows it to conform to the natural contours of the foot, providing a customized fit that enhances comfort and support. Polyurethane insoles have excellent moisture-wicking properties, helping to keep feet dry and reducing the risk of blisters and other foot issues. These insoles are also resistant to microbial growth, which helps prevent odor and maintains a hygienic environment inside the shoe. Overall, the combination of cushioning, durability, lightweight, flexibility, moisture management and hygiene benefits makes polyurethane-based insoles a highly effective and comfortable choice for safety footwear.

Understanding the different types of safety shoes and their specific features workers and employers to make informed decisions, ensuring maximum protection and comfort in the workplace.

This article originally appeared in the September 2024 issue of Occupational Health & Safety.