Best For My Feet: September 2021

Wednesday 29 September 2021

Do Work Boots Help Plantar Fasciitis? (Or Make It Worse?)

Work boots by themselves are not going to help you improve your plantar fascia. If you already suffer from plantar fasciitis and you’re wondering if buying a pair of work boots will help you in any way, the answer is: it depends!

Not all work boots will help you reduce plantar fasciitis discomfort. But they can definitely make it worse if you don’t use the right work boots or accessories that WILL help with plantar fasciitis.

a worker with an inflamed heel due to plantar fasciitis and a text over the image saying:" work boots help plantar fasciitis?"

Keep reading if you want to find out what to look for in a work boot for plantar fasciitis and which type of work boots are popular for people with plantar fasciitis.

Not only that, but we’ll share some easy exercises you can do to help that plantar fascia muscle relax a little bit and give you less pain.

But first…

Can work boots cause plantar fasciitis?

Quick answer, yes work boots can cause plantar fasciitis.

It all comes down to the fact that while work boots are by design made to keep someone safe in their line of work. Unfortunately, not all work boots provide the needed foot support to avoid the long-term side effects of working in demanding jobs.

Sometimes you can blame the manufacturer. you can say their safety boots are cheap or bad quality. But many times, for example, we buy a pair of wedge sole work boots simply because they look stylish and casual.

But they might not be the right ones for you. Yes, we all are biased. We all like to buy footwear that makes us look good, even though as I said that might come at the expense of not being good for our feet’ health!

This is one of the many reasons it is essential to choose good quality comfortable work boots and not just pick up any random work boot that seems reasonable enough.

Can work boots help relieve plantar fasciitis pain?

Yes, work boots can help alleviate pain caused by plantar fasciitis. All you have to do is get a pair of work boots that provides good arch support in order to alleviate the pressure and the stress that’s put on your plantar fascia.

A good work boot for plantar fasciitis will reduce the pain when you walk and with time the plantar fascia will become less and less inflamed and irritated.

This will work as long as you keep helping your feet to recover from the pain caused by the inflamed plantar fascia.

How do you do that?

Buy good footwear, massage your plantar fascia and do the simple exercises we’re sharing with you below and that’s a good plan to tackle plantar fasciitis.

Should you take time off work to recover from plantar fasciitis?

If you have plantar fasciitis, going to work as if everything is fine and dandy will only make things worse. Especially since you’re stepping on the problem and putting more stress on the ligaments of your feet.

Sooner or later, the pain will get bad to the point where the agony will make it impossible to walk.

When it comes to your health, finding courage isn’t an option.

The moment your heels start aching constantly and swell up, you need to consult with a physician or doctor to see just how bad the damage is to take the appropriate amount of sick days off to heal.

Depending on the severity, you’ll take anywhere between a few weeks to a couple of months off to heal.

The good news is that unless there’s extreme ligament damage that requires surgery, you’ll need lots of rest and time off work to let your body fix itself up!

Six easy exercises you can do to alleviate pain from plantar fasciitis

According to the American Orthopedic Foot & Ankle Society, with six months of consistent, non-operative treatment, plantar fasciitis will be resolved up to 97% of the time.

What does this mean for you? First, with a few simple exercises (don’t worry, we’re not talking anything intensive here), the pain in your foot can be rapidly relieved and reduced over time.

Here are a few simple exercises that we’re sure you’ll be delighted at just how simple and effective they are to help you get back on your feet:

6. Stretching the calf

The muscles in your feet and calves can get tight. This makes plantar fasciitis all the more unbearable, but getting those muscles to loosen up is pretty simple. All you have to do is follow these steps:

Lean on a wall with your hands

Straighten the knee of your affected leg and bend the other knee in front

Keep both feet flat on the ground.

At this point, you should feel a stretching sensation in the heel and calf of the extended leg.

Hold your position for 10 seconds.

Repeat 2 to 3 times

5. Rolling stretch

A relatively simple exercise you can do to loosen up your foot muscles is to roll a rounded object back and forth on your feet. Although this sounds too simple to be accurate, it’ll do wonders to heal those sore muscles, and it’s pretty satisfying at that too!

Follow these steps:

Sit upright on a chair

Roll a circular object under the arch of the foot (anything from a golf ball, rolling pin, or specialized foam rollers can work)

Roll for 2 minutes

4. Plantar fascia stretches

Muscle tightness around the affected area can be directly relieved with a few simple stretches:

Sit on a chair and cross the injured heel over your other leg

Hold the foot in your opposite hand.

Pull the toes toward the shin to create tension in the arch of the foot.

Place your other hand on the bottom of your foot to feel for tension in the plantar fascia.

Hold your position for 10 seconds.

Repeat 2 to 3 times

Note: If it’s too painful to hold your foot this way, use a towel to grasp and stretch your foot.

3. Foot flexes

Flexing your feet helps increase the amount of blood flowing into them and relieves tension in the calves.

For this exercise, you’ll need an elastic stretch band and then go through these steps:

Sit on the floor and straighten your legs

Wrap the elastic around your feet while holding the ends in your hands

Gently point your toes away from your body.

Return to the starting position slowly.

Repeat ten times

2. Towel curls

Curling a towel, or any other fabric for that matter is another suitable method to stretch the foot and calf muscles.

You can do it after you wake up or even while doing other tasks. Follow these steps:

Sit on a chair with both your feet flat on the ground and keep a small towel or different fabric in front of your feet

Grab the center of the towel or fabric with your toes

Bring the towel or fabric towards you.

Relax your foot

Repeat five times

1. Marble pickups

Like towel curls, this exercise involves picking up marbles to flex your toes and stretch the foot muscles.

Follow these steps:

Sit on a chair with your knees bent and keep your feet flat on the floor

Place 20 marbles and a bowl next to your feet.

Pick up one marble at a time by curling your toes.

Place the marble into the bowl.

Repeat 20 times

What features should work boots have to help people with plantar fasciitis?

A proper pair of work boots can be both a way to prevent plantar fasciitis and reduce the extent of the pain after or while recovering from plantar fasciitis.

Next time you’re on the hunt for a pair of work boots, make sure to get a pair with the following comfort features:

Supportive Insoles

Pretty much every work boot has an insole. Yet, proper work boots include durable cushioned insoles that provide arch support to reduce stress. They also match the shape of each foot to give maximum stability and support.

Specialized medical orthopedic insoles can be purchased separately and worn in work boots. Some work boot manufacturers even include anatomically correct insoles. These insoles combine both firm and soft cushioning to support the different areas of the foot.

Here are a few insoles I’ve used to fight back the plantar fasciitis discomfort:

Shock Absorption

How often do you walk at work? Even if it’s not much, each step on hard surfaces like concrete creates an impact that, over time, can cause damage. For that reason, it’s important to choose work boots that are shock absorbent to spread the force of each step and prevent your feet from absorbing the shock.

Cushioning

Comfort is not a luxury. It is a necessity to be able to work. To provide full support and lasting comfort many manufacturers cushion the footbeds and interiors of their work boots to prevent pain and discomfort. Along with protecting the feet from blisters and chafing, and other common issues found in boots without cushioning.

Heels

The majority of the body’s weight is placed on the ball of the foot, making it one of the most important places where your feet require support. Medium-sized heels are recommended to provide the best balance and stability for your feet.

If your work boots’ heels are too high, it can cause tension to the ligaments, whereas low heels don’t provide enough support, and flat boots have no support whatsoever.

Correct sizing

Wearing the proper size is essential to keep your feet in a healthy position and reduce overall pain, which is why you should opt for a pair of work boots with a snug fit that doesn’t let your feet slip from inside.

What work are boots good for plantar fasciitis?

Hunting for work boots that have foot support and highlight comfort front and center can sometimes be like looking for a needle in a haystack, especially since there are so many options to choose from.

To save you the hassle, we’ve picked three of the best work boots that can help reduce the pain and let you work more comfortably. But there are a ton more options out there so please free to do more research. Check some of our work boots reviews and round-ups.

Ariat Workhog

The 90-degree heel provides added support

400g Thinsulate Ultra insulation

Mesh lining for added airflow and comfort

Extra comfort insole with 4LR technology has maximum cushioning with a higher rebound for added support.

Shock-absorbing EVA midsole

On these pages you can find more similar work boots:

Timberland PRO Bundoock

Rigid external heel cup for lateral stability

Padded top collar

Fiberglass shank for structural support
Composite toe boot wich makes it lighter than other boots.

Dual-density dynamic anti-fatigue technology absorbs shock and returns energy at key zones of the foot.

Relevant pages where you can find similar boots:

Caterpillar Second Shift

Climasphere breathable insole keeps your foot comfortable

Engineered nylon mesh lining optimizes breathability and comfort.

Steel Shank for added support and stability

Removable PU Sock Liner provides all-day comfort.

Similar pages if you want to do more digging:

Check out our review of the Caterpillar Outline steel toe boots

Conclusion: can work boots help with plantar fasciitis?

Plantar fasciitis can be an absolute nightmare to deal with. If you notice sharp pains in your heels early on and switch to comfortable work boots you will not have to deal with the dreadful pain that only gets worse with time.

We get it. Sometimes all those added comfort features work boots incorporate might seem like extra bells and whistles. You might think they don’t add any value to real-life work scenarios. But trust us, in the long run, your feet will thank you for it.

So work boots CAN help alleviate the plantar fasciitis pain but also can make it worse. They can help in the sense that some work boots can provide you with better support helping you relax the plantar fascia and getting back to normal.

Whereas if you don’t pay attention to what boots you’re buying, what insoles you have, etc then your work boots can make your plantar fasciitis worse.

Remember, if you don’t tackle the main reason causing you pain, you’re essentially going in circles and increasing the overall damage being done to your foot.

Eternal resources if you want to do some extra reading:

Team Members Working On This Page

Jessica Flynn – Writer And Researcher

Love technology, going to the beach, take care of my body, and writing (amongst other things). You’ll see my face around here a little bit since I’m responsible for part of the research and writing of some of the articles you’re reading on BestForMyFeet.com. I hope you’ll find our content helpful and enjoyable! See you around, thanks for reading!

Writen & Edited By Adrian – Editor / Webmaster

Construction Professional, driver, crane operator, cleaner, head chef … these are just some of the jobs I did in the past. Working in all these different environments taught me that having good footwear to protect your feet from different dangers at work IS PARAMOUNT for any worker! On this website, I aim to share all my knowledge and personal experience in dealing with different footwear and foot care issues, and hopefully, you can get something out of it. Enjoy!

source https://bestformyfeet.com/are-work-boots-good-or-bad-for-plantar-fasciitis/

How Steel Toe Boots Work? (Explained For New Users)

New to work boots and wondering what’s the point of steel toe boots and how they protect you? Welcome then, you’re in the right place.

a construction worker wearing a pair of steel toe work boots explaining what's the point of the steel toe work boots and how they work.

I didn’t have a clue about it a few years back either so I’m happy to share with you my knowledge and my own experience related to steel toe work boots after being in the construction industry for over a decade!

Let’s get into it and learn things like what type of steel boots you can find on the market, how to know which one should you buy, and things you must know before you get a pair of these bad boys!

But first …

How do steel toe work boots protect your feet?

Steel toe work boots are also called safety work boots. Not only because in these boots you might find features such as puncture-resistant, waterproof, slip-resistant, etc … but also because they have the steel toe cap that will protect your feet and more specifically your toes from items that can fall or rollover your toes.

This is a simple feature but makes ALL the difference in the world. How many times have you banged your little toe against the couch? Do you remember that pain?

Well, imagine at work. It’s much more dangerous. You can hit sharp exposed objects such as steel structures or maybe timbers with exposed nails or screws. And so much more!

There are countless situations in which a good pair of steel-toe work boots can save you from either silly injuries or prevent accidents that can put you in bed for weeks.

So basically work boots with a steel toe cap will protect you from:

Falling objects
Rollover items
Puncture your toes against sharp objects

9 types of steel toe work boots

There are a ton of steel-toe work boots brands and models on the market. This is great because you can find and choose work boots that fit not only your taste but also your industry.

Depending on the industry you’re working in you might need some features but you might not need others.

For example, if you’re a groundworker you might want to go for a pair of pull-on work boots instead of an ankle-high boot.

That’s because the 6inch boot will not prevent soil, dirt, water, etc to come into your boots as effectively as a good pair of pull-on work boots will.

So here’s a table with types of steel toe work boots you can find online or at some retail store.

Brand	Type	More Details
Irish Setter	Wester Style boot	See in-store
Caterpillar	6 Inch Lace-up boot	See in-store
Nortiv 8	Tactical boot	See in-store
Doc Martens	Fashionable boot	See in-store
Keen	Hiker style boot	See in-store
Carhartt	Wellington boot	See in-store
Servus	Rubber boots	See in-store
Rockrooster	Side zipper boots	See in-store
Chippewa	Logger style boots	See in-store

How to know which steel toe work boot you should buy?

This is simple really. Don’t overthink it. Think about the work you’re going to do and think about the possible dangers and hazards that are awaiting you!

Here are a few examples to give you an idea:

Do you work in a warehouse?

Go for the most comfortable pair of work boots you can buy. It’s important because you’re going to do a lot of walking up and down. I recommend a 6inch lace-up or a slip-on work boot.

Do you work in a garage?

Same thing here. Go for a 6inch type of work boot. Make sure to choose a work boot with a slip-resistant sole (rubber is best) since the work floor in a garage is greasy and oily.

Do you work in a place that’s too hot or too cold?

If you work in cold temperatures is best to use insulated work boots and these usually are higher than 6inch. It can prevent snow and water from going into the boot. Also, the boot manufacturers can add more insulation to the boot to help keep you warm during your shift.

If you work in hot summer weather, the lower the boot, the cooler your feet will remain during your shift. So don’t go for 11,10,8 inch high boots, instead, choose 5,6-inch high work boots that are made with breathable material.

Can you buy just ANY steel-toe boots?

No! You should not buy any steel toe work boot advertised out there.ESPECIALLY if you work in industries where it’s a must to wear safety toe work boots.

Do you know why?

Because not all work boots comply with the ASTM standards.ASTM is an international organization that tests all sorts of things and they set the standards for safety footwear in our case.

So if you want to buy a cool pair of wedge sole work boots online for example but the seller can not provide you with the details of whether the boot meets or exceed the ASTM standards set for your industry … DO NOT BUY THEM!!!

Also, the features of the boots must be visible on the work boots. For example, if your boots are EH (electrical rated) there must be a label on the tongue or somewhere on the sides of the boots showing that the boots are electrical hazard rated.

Same thing if the boots have a steel toe cap, antistatic, etc

So make sure you look for these things when you’re out there looking for your first pair of work boots.

Who needs to wear steel-toe work boots and why?

Anybody who appreciates their feet basically must wear steel toe work boots. That’s answering both questions in one sentence.

Is it mandatory to wear steel-toe work boots?

It use to be mandatory to have a steel toe cap. For the last few years, allow toe caps and composite toe cap work boots have gained a lot of traction since they are lighter than the steel toe and provides the same or almost the same protection.

With all these options available and approved by the OSHA (Occupational Safety & Health Administration) and the CSA (Canadian Safety Association) all you need to know is that as long as your work boots have a safety toe you’re good to go to work.

Most jobs will give you the PPE (personal protective equipment) required for the job, but there might be times where that’s not the case or you simply want something better.

If this is your first time wearing work boots just ask your manager or safety officer what safety features your boots need to have to make sure you buy the right ones.

Can you work in construction without steel toe work boots?

The safety boots I’ve used for construction work have always been steel-toed. Not long ago you could not step into a serious construction site without steel toe work boots.

Things have changed as I said above and now you have a few different options you can choose from:

Steel toe
Allow toe
Composite toe
You CAN NOT wear soft toe work boots on a construction site though.

How does steel toe work boots should fit?

The right pair of work boots should not be too loose nor too tight. First and foremost they should not be uncomfortable around the toe area. If it’s the first time working in safety work boots you might find them a bit strange at the beginning but not uncomfortable!

So basically your steel toe work boot should fit snuggly without squeezing or pressing your toes inside the toe box.

I personally like to buy 1 size up to allow some space in there for an extra pair of thick socks in winter.

There’s no cookie-cutter solution though. Hence the best way to buy footwear is by going to the local store and see how the boots fit you right there and then.

How long do steel toe work boots last?

As with everything related to work footwear, how long a pair of work boots lasts will hugely depend on what type of work you do, how active you are, and what brand of boot you’re buying.

I’ve never had a steel toe boot lasting me more than 2 years working in construction.

Where to buy steel toe works boots?

Personally, I do not have much time to go to the local store and buy safety boots. Plus, I’ve been buying my work boots online for a decade now and I like how convenient it is.

I like to buy on Amazon because there are a lot of options available, it’s safe to buy, and also if you can take advantage of Amazon’s Prime Wardrobe.

The good thing about buying work boots on Amazon is that they have the Amazon Prime Wardrobe where you can try on the work boots at home for a week without paying for them. If you’re not happy you can send them back, no questions asked!

It’s worth checking it out before buying your boots. It’s quite handy and it’s free if you have an Amazon Prime membership.

Other stores

Zappos
The Boot Barn
Walmart
Sears

What are some good examples of good steel toe boots?

I’ll mention a few work boots in here that I know many professionals are happy with. That should give you some inspiration but feel free to keep doing your own research.

We have a work boots category page here where we have categorized all sorts of work boots based on the industry you might be in, the different environments, and features you might need.

That makes it easier for you to find a pair of work boots that suits you but for a quick view, here are a few brands you should look at.

Brand	Type	More Details
Irish Setter	*Wester Style boot*	See in-store
Caterpillar	*6 Inch Lace-up boot*	See in-store
Nortiv 8	*Tactical boot*	See in-store
Doc Martens	*Fashionable boot*	See in-store
Keen	*Hiker style boot*	See in-store
Carhartt	*Wellington boot*	See in-store
Servus	*Rubber boots*	See in-store
Rockrooster	*Side zipper boots*	See in-store
Chippewa	*Logger style boots*	See in-store

There are many more of course but these are to give you a few ideas.

My last two pairs of steel toe work boots were:

I’ve made a video review of the Caterpillar if you want to check it out:

Are there any alternatives to steel toe work boots?

Yes, there are a couple of alternatives to steel toe work boots as we’ve mentioned above.

If you do a quick search you’ll see that most of the boots with an alloy toe are made by Keen and Timberland PRO.

On the other hand, work boots with a composite toe cap are more widely manufactured by other brands as well.

Allow toe cap	Composite toe cap
Keen Utility San Jose	Wolverine Overpass
Timberland PRO Helix	Carhartt Energy
Twisted X	Timberland PRO Boondock
	Reebok Beamer
	Ariat Workhog
	Merrell
	Keen Cincinnati
	Rocky Rams Horn
	Rockrooster
	Cebu
	Thorogood

As you can see you’ll find many more options if you go for composite toe work boots instead of alloy.

Last words on how steel toe work boots work

The takeaway from this article is that you will need steel-toe work boots if you work any job where the potential of something fall or rollover your feet is high. Think heavy industries, automotive, constructions, rail, etc.

Also, remember that you don’t have to wear steel-toe boots if your job is more light-duty. If you must wear safety boots, you can always go for a lighter version boot choosing either an alloy toe or a composite toe boot.

Stay safe and go home to your loved ones in one piece. Take care of yourself!

Team Members Working On This Page

Adrian – Editor / Webmaster

Jessica Flynn – Writer And Researcher

source https://bestformyfeet.com/explaining-how-steel-toe-boots-work/

Saturday 25 September 2021

What Are Soft-Toe Work Boots? (Explained + Examples)

In a world of rough jobs, it’s easy to assume that steel or composite toe caps are ideal for every worker, but that’s not exactly the case.

Soft toe work boots protect workers from microbes, bloodborne pathogens, slippery surfaces, wet environments, and other hazards.

A worker putting on a pair of soft toe work boots.

At first, it might sound weird not to have a reinforced toe cap, but with every field comes different types of risks.

Keep reading to find out what exactly is a soft toe work boot if it’s right for you.

What is the meaning of soft toe work boots, and what are they for?

Soft toe work boots are work boots that do not have a reinforced toe cap. Although steel toe (and alloy and composite) work, boots are considered the golden standard for safety.

They are not suitable for every type of job due to their weight. In addition, for various kinds of workers, there are much more significant risks than sharp or falling objects.

Flexibility and staying light on your feet is essential in jobs that pose such risks, where soft-toe work boots come in.

What are soft-toe work boots made of?

Generally speaking, soft toe work boots are reinforced with lighter materials such as rubber or thick leather around the toe area.

In most cases, the material around the toe cap is the same material used in the rest of the work boot’s upper.

Despite lacking steel or other solid materials, soft toe work boots share many similarities with safety toe work boots in boot construction, materials, insoles, and outsoles.

The only real difference is the lack of a protective cap. Otherwise, a soft toe work boot can, and often is, from the same materials that other work boots are made from.

Are soft-toe work boots OSHA approved?

Yes, soft-toe work boots are OSHA approved. Yet, this generally depends on your type of job and workplace requirements.

While OSHA compliance differs from model to model, soft toe work boots provide minimum toe protection that meets various ASTM standards revolving around electrical hazards, static discharge, and slip resistance.

Soft toe work boots vs. safety toe work boots (steel toe, composite toe, etc.)

Still not sure if soft toe work boots are for you? Choosing the right work boot is one of the hardest things to do if all three types seem to meet the requirements of your job.

Not to worry though, we’re here to help you make the right choice to get what’s best for your feet!

To break it down, here are a few quick methods to know which type of work boot should you go for:

Are you dealing with heavy and sharp equipment?

If so, a soft toe boot is not something you should consider; instead, opt for steel toe work boots.

Does your job need you to be flexible and have the most agility?

If so, a soft toe work boot’s lightness and lack of any material constraining your toe’s movement will fit your needs.

Do you work in subzero temperatures?

If so, avoid steel toe work boots and go for soft toe footwear. A work boot with padding might reduce the impact of the weather.

Note: as much traction as a pair of soft toe work boots may offer, if they’re not designed to double as snow boots, then you need to upgrade your work boots either way.

Does your job have metal detectors?

If so, a steel toe work boot is not an option. Instead, a soft toe or even a composite work boot would be a better choice.

Note: some soft toe and composite work boots have supportive steel parts such as steel shanks.

Pros of soft toe work boots

Spacious toe boxes

Lightweight

Slightly more comfortable

Usually more affordable

They can be used in magnetic work fields.

Cons of soft toe work boots

No protection against impacts or heavy objects

Not suitable for industrial jobs

When to choose soft toe over safety toe work boots?

Aside from job requirements, price and comfort are some of the main reasons workers opt for soft-toe work boots.

Since soft toe work boots do not have additional material in the toe area, they tend to be lighter, affordable, roomier, and more comfortable. This is true for workers struggling to find the right balance between foot size and comfort.

As with any other work boot, a critical aspect to look out for is their features.

If you’re opting for a pair of soft toe work boots and don’t specifically need steel, alloy, or composite toe protection, make sure your work boots have these must-have features:

Leather or nylon uppers for better stability

High-quality insoles

Rubber outsoles

Oil and slip-resistance

Waterproof construction

Waterproof lining to prevent chemicals and other elements from entering your foot

ASTM ratings depending on your job’s requirements and hazards

What industries are soft-toe work boots good for?

If you work in construction, logging, or other industries where there are risks of falling, piecing, or rolling objects, you don’t want to be caught in a pair of soft-toe work boots.

However, for jobs that involve chemical, microbial, airborne pathogen, and slippery hazards, a soft toe work boot will provide you with the protection you need to stay safe on the job.

For example, if you’re pouring concrete the biggest danger is to have that wet concrete going into your boot provoking serious burns.

Remember, a work boot isn’t solely defined by its toe cap but rather by its ability to protect your foot while you’re on the clock.

Here are some jobs where soft toe work boots are ideal:

Electricians

Drivers

Cattle ranchers

Farmers

Kitchen crews

Cleaners

Office workers

Researchers

Lab workers

Warehouse workers

Chemical factory workers

Where can you buy soft-toe work boots?

High-quality soft-toe work boots are easy to find if you look in the right places; in fact, you can find them in your local safety gear outlet.

Suppose you prefer the convenience of shopping online. In that case, you’ll be pleased to know that Amazon, Walmart, and other reputable online stores offer great prices and choices.

Some people prefer shopping from the manufacturer’s websites, so if you’re a fan of a specific brand, the good news is that most brands such as Ariat, Caterpillar, and Wolverine offer direct purchases from their online stores.

Example of 7 popular soft toe work boots

While the lack of toe protection might not put them in the same league as steel toe work boots, soft-toe work boots hold their ground in reliability mainly since they are produced by the same manufacturers of safety toe footwear.

If you’re on the lookout for a reliable pair of work boots, we’ve taken the liberty to simplify your journey. We rounded up what we think are some of the best examples of this category of footwear. They’re listed in no particular order. So the 7th is as good as the 1st. They’re just different styles!

7. KEEN Utility Pittsburgh 6″

Nature is an unpredictable force. For a worker, there’s no time to guess or predict what they’re about to face. Instead, they need to plan and be prepared for anything, and that’s just what the KEEN Pittsburgh work boots aim to do.

It is designed to fend off fatigue and preserve a worker’s energy instead of wasting it while trying to move their feet. These work boots offer a fusion of versatility, durability, and cushioning with a contoured heel-lock. The heel-lock is for a secure fit and full-on foot support.

Featuring a stylish Nubuck exterior that’s also waterproof, the membrane of the leather used is breathable.

To the bottom, you get a 90-degree heel and rubber lug sole pattern. The rubber lug sole provides a stable grip even on the slickest surfaces.

You also get electrical hazard protection compliant with ASTM F2892-11 EH standards, oil resistance, abrasion resistance, shock absorbance. On the inside, your foot gets greeted by a dual-density EVA footbed that provides cushioning with every step.

Check Out Our KEEN Work Boots Reviews Round-up Here

6. Timberland 6″ Direct Attach

They are designed to provide enhanced job performance day in and day out. Timberland’s Direct Attach work boots are for on-site survival to meet the needs of the most rigorous work sites.

Featuring waterproof leather, seam-sealed construction, and Thermolite insulation, you get to focus on the job at hand without having to worry about your foot when you wear these work boots.

We mentioned that these are seam-sealed. However, they’re breathable at the same time and get rid of moisture. In this way, you don’t have to suffer from a case of humid work boots at the end of the day.

The midsoles of these work boots are also lightweight. They’re made out of blown-thermal plastic that adds to their overall flexibility. The inclusion of a contoured nylon shock-diffusion plate provides extra support.

You also get an open-cell polyurethane footbed with antimicrobial treatment for breathable comfort and odor control on the inside.

Check Out Our Timberland PRO Work Boots Reviews Round-Up Here

5. Wolverine Floorhand

The Wolverine Floorhand work boots are ideal for workers on the lookout for a soft toe work boot with a premium look thanks to its waterproof full-grain leather upper that extends to the shaft to keep your feet dry and a rubber outsole that allows you to step with confidence.

If you’re looking for a lightweight option, you’ll like the lightweight cement construction and slip-resistant lug to keep your feet stable in slippery conditions.

You also get sturdy metal eyelets to secure your foot. At the same time, to the inside, you’ll find a padded tongue and collar for added comfort, along with a fully removable cushioned footbed.

A couple of related pages to Wolverine if you want to do more digging!

Wolverine Vs Red Wing Comparison
Are Wolverine Work Boots Any Good?

4. Ariat Groundbreaker

If you’re a worker, you can bet Ariat has a model that’s right for you, and their Groundbreaker line of work boots live up to their reputation.

These work boots feature a Duratread rubber outsole that is both oil and slip-resistant and a 90-degree heel. The heel gives the added foot support, not to mention maximum traction on any terrain without sacrificing comfort.

With its distinctive western styling, four-row stitch pattern, and sturdy build, the Groundbreakers are ASTM 2892-11 EH rated while incorporating Ariat’s Four Layer Rebound technology for added comfort along with mesh lining for better airflow and breathability.

While perfect for various terrains, some reviews pointed out that they aren’t the best choice for frozen surfaces. With that said, this is common with all other work boots not explicitly designed to tread on snow.

Ariat VS Justin Work Boots Comparison

3. Irish Setter Style 83605 Ashby

It is made using full-grain leather tanned by hard-working folks. At Red Wing (the parent company of Irish Setter), the material of these work boots scores high on the durability scale. It also meets the needs of workers in need of footwear to keep up with the pace of their job.

The EVA outsoles on these bad boys are tested to withstand hot surfaces and heat-resistant to melt at a minimum of 475°F/246°C, along with ASTM F2413-11 electrical hazard compliant protection.

To the inside, you get a nylon vamp and a removable Polyurethane footbed

2. Carhartt Wedge 6″ Work Boot

Combining wedge style with durability and comfort, these Goodyear welt work boots from Carhartt are entirely waterproof.

So keep your feet dry in the wettest conditions where a protective safety toe is not needed or required.

Water isn’t the only thing these work boots protect you from. They protect against accidental contact with electrical circuits up to 18,000 volts (in dry conditions, of course). In addition, they are ASTM f2892-18 EH compliant.

Comfort is also where these boots shine. Their PU and foam-cushioned insoles provide foot support and reduce fatigue. If you liked these great wedge sole work boots just keep in mind that their sole is not that great on wet surfaces. So if you tend to work a lot in presence of wet surfaces, go for something with a rubber sole.

1. Caterpillar Revolver Pull-On Work Boot

Caterpillar’s pull-on style work boots go back to basics. They take orders and let workers march through the day without breaking a sweat.

The Revolver’s Goodyear welt construction adds to the boot’s durability. They feature a full-grain leather exterior to keep you protected.

In addition, it offers flexibility to the forefoot, while a nylon mesh lines the interior for added breathability and comfort.

Please don’t mistake these boots for being light on features. They pack in a shock-absorbing PVC midsole. The midsole adds to their strength while adding support for use in demanding job environments.

You also get a Taibrelle and PU Sock liner in the comfort department. This adds to the work boot’s durability and cushioning.

The takeaway about soft toe work boots

As you’ve seen from reading the article and our previous articles, we stress knowing your job requirements and the level of safety you need.

This rule doesn’t apply to the material used in the safety cap; it applies to every other type of safety footwear out there.

Before we sign off, we’ll leave you with one last important aspect to consider:

The quality and type of soft toe work boot you get.

Sure, a pair of off-brand work boots might seem to be more than enough for your job. But at the end of the day, we’re talking about your feet’ safety and integrity, which let you do your job and earn your bread and butter.

That’s why no matter what, avoid going for low-quality soft-toe work boots. Instead, stick to trusted brands that prioritize safety and comfort.

So, if you’re looking for a pair of soft-toe work boots and they suit the conditions of your job, go for it!

Team Members Working On This Page

Adrian – Editor / Webmaster

Jessica Flynn – Writer And Researcher

source https://bestformyfeet.com/what-does-soft-toe-work-boots-mean/

Friday 24 September 2021

When Should Work Boots Be Replaced? (And How Often?)

A pair of work boots must last you at least a year before breaking down or it needs replacement. When should you change your work boots and how often it largely depends on your work, how active you are, the quality of the boots, etc, etc, etc.

a lady and two men looking at new work boots so they can replace their old work boots.

But nowadays, a good pair of work boots that you can buy on Amazon or any other retail store should last you a minimum of 8 months all the way up to 24 months depending on your industry and how much you abuse them.

I’m still yet to meet someone that wear their boots for more than 3 years! (Maximum I got from a pair of safety boots is 1 year and 8 months working in construction.)

Here’s when you should replace your work boots

There are a few instances where I had to replace my work boot. They were not safe anymore since one or more of the features that were supposed to protect my feet have been compromised.

1. When there are cuts on the upper of the boot

Depending on what type of industry this might matter or not for you. But keep an eye on how the upper of your boot looks like.

If there are any holes, cuts, or deep scratches present … that might mean you need to replace your work boots.

As I said, this will depend on what kind of work you’re doing. Imagine a dude or dudette working in a warehouse and another dude or dudette working in a garage, oil industry, or working with wet concrete.

The warehouse worker is still safe with a cut in the upper of the boot since will work in a nice and dry area. Whereas the others will be exposed to dangerous chemicals coming into their boots and causing serious injuries.

2. When the toe cap has been damaged in any way

Some people won’t understand that if something heavy dropped on your safety toe cap (steel toe, composite toe, alloy toe cap) … it saved your toe ONE TIME.

If there are any visible damages to the toe cap, even a little dent, next time you might not be so lucky.

Health and safety officers say to change the boots immediately since the toe cap integrity has been or might have been compromised after one significant impact.

3. When the outsole show cuts, cracks, or punctures

Not everyone works in a dangerous environment. But most jobs I go to, I step on screws, nails, broken glass, and other sharp items that can penetrate the sole of the boot. Especially if the boots don’t have a puncture-resistant outsole.

Even with a puncture-resistant boot, if your work boots show any potential cuts and cracks on the outsole you should definitely think about replacing them.

They won’t protect you if you end up stepping on any sharp objects leaving you exposed to serious injuries that could potentially keep you on the bed for days and weeks.

4. After a foot infection

Again, this might not be your case due to the nature of my job (construction contractor) I’m at high risk of developing athlete’s foot and other foot conditions. That’s because my boots are always wet or humid (even though I wear waterproof work boots most of the time).

A little while back I got infected with athlete’s foot and it was horrible. One of the things I had to do was to replace all my socks with new ones as I was starting the treatment.

In order to make sure that I’m going to get rid of the athlete’s foot fungus, I decided to throw away my stinky work boots as well. That was before I knew you could disinfect and sanitize your work boots by using a solution of alcohol isopropyl mixed with water.

So you don’t really have to throw them away, but I was desperate to get rid of that fungus because it was ruining my life. You can try and disinfect them first though.

Here’s how often you should replace your old work boots

If your work doesn’t present any of the above issues, you don’t have to change your work boots unless you get bored of wearing them (which happens to me all the time).

Most of the time I replace my work boots because I want something new and more comfortable.

Again, in terms of the safety of the work boots, you should change them every time one of the above signs appears.

Otherwise, you can change your work boots as often as you want.

Can’t you just repair the work boots instead of replacing them?

Yes, that’s actually a great idea. You can repair your work boots. Any good cobbler will resole your work boots or do any repair on a good pair of old work boots and leave them as new. You just have to make sure it makes sense for you from a financial point of view. As some repairs might be very expensive.

But you can repair

The outsole of your work boots
The upper
Even the inside
Zippers
Etc

How long usually a pair of work boots last?

How long a pair of work boots will last you hugely depend on the type of work you’re doing and many other factors really. But that’s the most important one.

If you work as a delivery driver, for example, your work boots can last for at least 2 years before you even considering repairing them.

Of course, I’m assuming you’re mostly driving during your shift and that means the soles and other parts of the boots won’t get worn as fast as if you work as a carpenter or maybe a correction officer, police officer, etc.

Basically, the more active you are in your day-to-day job and activities the faster your work boots will need a repair or a replacement.

Personally, I never had a pair of safety work that lasted more than 2 years working in construction as a handyman, machinist, and other positions I had.

Do work boots have an expiry date?

No, work boots don’t have an expiring date on them. Maybe the leather and other materials the boot’s upper it’s made off might have a shelf life in the sense that if they just stay in a box for years, some parts of the boot might start to fell apart like is in the case of some type of outsoles.

Is there anything you can do to make them last longer and avoid replacing them?

As a matter of fact yes. Here are a few things you can do to make your work boots last longer and avoid replacing them too fast.

7. Have more than one pair

This will not only avoid getting bored of one pair of boots (assuming you’re not going to buy the same model) but it will also avoid the potential of fungus and bacteria building up in the boot.

Also, by doing this the boot will keep your foot more comfortable for longer.

6. Clean them

Clean the boots on the outside it’s also helpful for a longer lifespan of the work boots. Especially if it’s made of leather as leather and dirt are not best friends. Dirt and dust will dry the boot over time and that could damage the leather.

5. Wash them

Also, wash your boots. Here’s how I wash my work boots. There are a few ways to do it. You can pick and choose from just throwing them in the washing machine to dry wash them.

Whatever you choose, washing your work boots will also increase the life cycle of your boots avoiding replacement.

4. Oil them

Oiling your work boots will not only make them more comfortable but will also moisturize the leather and even make it waterproof.

3. Disinfect them

One of the best things about having two pairs of boots available at any time is that you can take turns washing them and even disinfect them. I disinfect my work boots when they get stinky and that’s every two months or so.

Will prevent you from suffering from athlete’s foot and other related conditions.

2. Buy orthotics insoles

I rarely find a pair of work boots that have an amazing insole from the get-go. So I usually have a pair of insoles around to put in my new work boots as soon as I buy them.

But with time, the insoles and the footbed get stinky and also they become uncomfortable. The solution to that is not to replace my work boots but to buy new inserts. (cheaper than repair the boots or buying new ones)

1. Repair them

You can definitely repair your work boots. Unfortunately, it’s not something many people choose to do nowadays simply because on some occasions it’s not cost-effective. It’s better to just throw them away and get a new pair.

But if you buy good boots, especially good and expensive leather work boots, it might be better to ask a cobbler how much will cost a repair before throwing them away.

Team Members Working On This Page

Writen & Edited By Adrian – Editor / Webmaster

Researched by Jessica Flynn – Writer And Researcher

source https://bestformyfeet.com/when-to-replace-work-boots/