Steel Toe Boots: What Are The Best Kind?

by Jonathan Steele⁽¹⁾
D-Mac Industries

There are a lot of companiess that make a version of the steeled-toed work boot. A lot of time and effort should be put into the decision to buy any shoe. But one you are going to rely on to protect your feet needs extra special attention. They have to be comfortable as well as strong. Any industry that requires these types of boots mean that the wearer will be on his/her feet at least the majority of their workday.

Fabric, durability, flexibility and type of sole are the prime considerations when choosing a steel toe work shoe/boot. Then you have to determine which if any other features are appropriate for the type of work you will be engaging in. read on to see how all these factors come into play.

1. What the shoe is made of is the difference between spending a lot on a shoe that tears up in a few months and getting one that last a few years. If the fabric is wrong it can be very uncomfortable for you as well. Leather is one of the best fabrics but they are also made with gortex, canvas and suede in the uppers. Leather is the only one of these that is fire resistant and can be easily kept cleaned and polished.

2. The way the shoe is constructed will tell you a great deal about its longevity. Most are made to last only 6months, they construct them to pass the OSHA standards and that is about all. You will want a show with reinforced stitching, and enough padding that it takes a couple of years before the metal wears through the top. A heel shank is also an important part of the construct of a great boot. Make sure the sole is thick and will last as long as the upper.

3. The sole is one of the most important aspects of the shoe. There are shoes out there that develop holes after two or three weeks. Then there is the fact that if you are working construction, you need a thick sole. Thin soles let you feel everything you step on. And if you have some cushion you may pick up a nail or tack without harm to yourself. Worn shoes can give you a variety of back issues. Thick may not be as comfortable but they sure are safer.

4. Finally you want a shoe that is flexible. It needs to bend when you bend. Thick and bendable is hard to find but it is not impossible. It is important to try on the shoe walk around in it and see if the level of comfort when you bend your foot is one that will get better with time or if they are likely to stay very stiff. The lack of flexibility is not conducive to long days on your feet.

Three of the best manufacturers of steeled toed work boots and shoes are "Doc Martens", "Timberland" and Justins Originals. These are your best bets for great construction and durability. Just remember that you can find quality at great prices but it will take a bit of shopping around. Wear clean socks because you will most certainly want to try them on first.

Jonathan Steele is a writer and a blogger who writes about metal deck properties. Mr. Steele is currently working on receiving his Master's degree in chemistry to compliment his love of structural steel decking capabilities.

Article submitted Sunday, March 27, 2011 & read 34 times.

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