Top tips: choosing the best work boots for any job

A long day in the wrong boots can leave workers with a sore back and aching legs by knock-off time — if they make it that far.

Not all work boots are made the same; however, finding the best safety footwear for long days on the job is straightforward once wearers know what they are looking for.

What are the key things to look for?

Whether work boots are worn every day as required PPE, or only for the occasional site visit, high-quality footwear has a lot of benefits. Worker wellbeing tops the list, closely followed by peace of mind that they are adequately equipped for whatever comes their way. Here are a few things to keep in mind.

Safety

Safety footwear in Australia and New Zealand must pass the certification requirements outlined in AS 2210.3, the standard governing PPE on both sides of the ditch.

The basic requirements for standards-testing include:

• Toe protection including impact and compression
• Upper tests including tear and tensile properties
• Soling tests including slip resistance and bond testing
   

If the boots aren’t certified, they should be avoided. There is a heightened risk of impact and compression injuries — as well as the boots literally falling apart at the seams.

Toe protection (impact resistance) is non-negotiable in most trades. There are a few different protective materials to choose from, steel caps being the most common. However, composites are becoming more popular due to their lighter weight. In terms of additional safety requirements like anti-static or penetration resistance, it is not worth taking any risks.

Wearers should think about what hazards might appear in their line of work — for instance, it is not only rig workers who need oil-resistant footwear, or dock workers who benefit from waterproof safety boots.

Style and fit

Most safety boot manufacturers offer a range of boot styles. One isn’t necessarily better than the other, however, lace-up boots will generally provide better ankle support. On the other hand, pull-on and zip-sided boots are easier to get on and off.

Just like the fastening style, safety boots come in a range of fits. Mid-cut boots are ideal for carpenters and bricklayers who work on their feet, but don’t necessarily require the full support of ankle boots.

Meanwhile, ankle-high lace-up boots provide greater ankle support to prevent injury and strain, and have an internal tongue padding and collar, increasing comfort. In addition, the laces allow the wearer to adjust tightness.

Most workers find ankle boots provide better overall support for long shifts on job sites. Nowadays, they’re also more accepted in offices, with tradies and managers spending more time behind a desk.

High-leg boots are becoming more popular among men and women working in environments like docks, oil rigs, or underground mine sites. When uneven ground calls for infallible ankle support, higher leg boots are best.

Comfort

Safety boots absorb up to twice the wearer’s bodyweight in force with every step. Properly designed work boots are lightweight and cushioned, reducing fatigue and improving productivity. Leather should be durable, yet supple, to assist with less break-in time — making work boots comfortable from day one.

Look for boots that are endorsed by the Australian Physiotherapy Association (APA). The APA only supports products that offer clear benefits for physiotherapy patients and recognises the technological advancements of work boots that help protect the wearer from stress-related injuries to the ankles, knees, hips and spine.

Additionally, wearers should make sure they have the option to return their new work boots if they don’t pass muster. Boot companies with a ‘comfort guarantee’ allow wearers to determine whether the boot is still comfortable even after a hard day’s work.

Longevity

Inferior steel cap boots may be cheaper, but replacing busted boots every couple of months can be more expensive in the long run. Of course, it’s hard to know which pair of brand new boots will last the longest, but considering premium boots with a higher construction quality is advisable.

Poorly built boots are, at best, a nuisance. But if they start to slip, are ill-fitted or not suitable for the environment, they quickly become a serious safety risk. Choose work boots that are built to last. That means:

• High-quality materials used inside and out
• Upper and outsole bonding that meets AS 2210.3 standards
• Lengthy manufacturer’s warranty
• Specially designed for a trade, rather than generic safety footwear
• Laces, zips or pull-on tabs that are durable

Find the perfect fit at a workwear store

Wearers should try on boots tailor-made for their trade and get advice from a safety footwear specialist. This will help to ensure that they are stepping into the right pair of high-quality work boots with all the safety features they need to get the job done.

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Handy hints

• Lace-up boots generally provide better ankle support
• Look for boots that are endorsed by the Australian Physiotherapy Association
• The upper and outsole bonding should meet AS 2210.3 standards
• Check for a lengthy manufacturer’s warranty
• Avoid generic safety footwear — seek boots designed for a specific trade
   

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