The different types of safety shoes

Whether for work or for sporting activities, safety shoes are essential equipment to protect your feet from shocks and injuries. They are available in a wide variety of models, all equally suitable for professionals and individuals. Depending on the brand and the conditions of use, the particularities of each pair can vary considerably. In this article, you will discover the different versions of this PPE.

What are the indications to check to find the best safety shoes?

To be sure you are choosing the best safety shoes for your work activity, there are a few things you need to check criteria:

• Protection provided: depending on the brand and model, safety shoes offer various features to guarantee the safety of the user. There are, for example, energy-absorbing heels, anti-static properties, protective toes, non-slip soles, etc.
• The level of protection: it also depends on the brand, model and type of shoes. The safety standards S1, S1P, S2, S3 have been put in place to determine this precisely.
• The design: it plays a crucial role in aesthetics, but also in the comfort and support of the feet while the shoes are worn. It is possible to find high, low, chic or even casual models.
• The material used for its manufacture: it guarantees the durability and ease of maintenance of the safety shoes. The material also greatly contributes to the comfort of use and the breathability of the product.

Which pair of safety shoes to choose?

You will find on the market a large collection of quality safety shoes suitable for large and small sizes:

Construction shoes for men and women

As their name suggests, construction shoes for men and women are mainly reserved for construction and public works professionals. They protect users from recurring accidents in this sector of activity such as crushing, falling objects and tripping.

Safety sneakers for sport

safety trainers are suitable for both sports and professional activities. They are generally low and light safety shoes, comfortable to wear even for long hours.

Lightweight safety shoes

These are often low profile safety shoes for men or women, made from light and resistant materials. They are ideal for workers who stand for a long time.

High or high protective shoes

High safety shoes come in several models, whose main role remains the same: to support and protect the feet and ankles. Among the most popular variations are work shoes for winter and work boots. security.

Work shoes for kitchens and hospitals

For kitchen and health professionals, lightweight safety shoes without laces are the most suitable. They are easy to put on and take off, comfortable, but also equipped with non-slip soles to prevent the risks associated with slippery floors.

Where can I find the regulations on the use of safety shoes?

The regulations and standards relating to safety footwear are specified in Regulation (EU) 2016/425 of the European Parliament and of the Council of 9 March 2016. The essential and optional requirements are further specified by EN ISO 20345 of 2011. The claims mentioned include in particular S markings (SB, S1, S1P, S2, S3, S4, S5), additional markings (A, E, HRO, etc.) and resistance to sliding (SRA, SRB, SRC).

What are the roles of safety shoes?

In accordance with standards, the main role of safety shoes is to protect and support the user's feet. They keep them safe from the risks associated with their working environment such as crushing, slipping, shocks, chemicals, etc. It is also possible to find some waterproof models, able to resist humidity.

Who should provide the safety shoes?

In the professional field, the obligation to purchase a pair of safety shoes for workers falls to the employer if the use of this equipment is required during the performance of their tasks. However, it is possible for professionals to obtain their own PPE to improve their working conditions, but also for their personal use. such as sports and hobbies.