Even the best pair of work shoes will need replacing eventually. However well you look after them, they’ll experience general wear and tear - especially if you’re on your feet all day. There are some signs to look out for that can indicate when to replace safety shoes and we can help you to find the perfect replacement pair.
Knowing When Your Shoes Need Replacing
With safety shoes, it can be sometimes difficult to know when to retire them and invest in a new pair, but here are some of the key things you should look out for:
Comfort
Are your safety shoes still comfortable? Despite having a robust purpose, safety shoes are designed to offer comfort as well as protection. If they’re starting to hurt your feet or ankles (and they aren’t brand-new), then this is a good indicator that it’s time for an upgrade.
General Wear and Tear
It’s important to regularly inspect your shoes to spot signs of general wear and tear. This can be things like the steel toe shining through or the tread on the bottom of the shoe being worn away. This can stop them from protecting you from hazards at work.
Leaks
Most safety shoes are waterproof which is perfect if you work in an outdoor environment or a workplace that has to deal with regular spillages. However, after time you might notice your shoes aren’t as waterproof as they used to be, leaving you with wet socks and damp feet. This is uncomfortable and can lead to skin and feet conditions so you’ll need to replace your shoes as soon as possible.
Impact Damage
Safety shoes are designed to protect your feet from various hazards. If you work in construction for example, a heavy object might have fallen on your foot. The shoe will have protected your foot but is now damaged and needs replacing.
Finding the Perfect Replacements
You’ve spotted some damage with your current pair of safety shoes or they just aren’t comfortable anymore. Now it’s time to think about finding replacements. When looking for new work shoes, there are some features that are absolute must-haves.
TripGuard
No matter your job role, one of the most common accidents in the workplace is a member of staff slipping or tripping. Look for shoes that offer a TripGuard which can prevent you from tripping as you move between different floor types.
Clyde is perfect for keeping you safe as you move about the workplace.
Waterproof
Keeping your feet warm and dry is crucial. Cold and wet feet can lead to bacterial and fungal infections, besides major discomfort. As said, most safety shoes have waterproof protection, but look for features such as SpillGuard to protect you from hot liquid spills if that's relevant to your job role.
Steel Toe
Some workplaces, like kitchens and butchers, are more likely to have falling objects like knives to worry about. Make sure your next pair of work shoes have a steel toe and a puncture-resistant footbed.
If you’re a butcher looking for replacement shoes, then Gusto81 are perfect for you.
Slip Resistant
When you’re working a busy shift, the last thing you need to be worrying about is slipping on wet surfaces. Choose a pair of safety shoes that are slip-resistant, ensuring you stay on your feet at all times.
Other Tips and Ideas
Consider your job role and the specific dangers you face at work when choosing your next pair of shoes. For example, safety shoes that are perfect for warehouse staff aren’t necessarily going to be suitable for people that work behind a bar.
Managers and supervisors work in the same environment and face the same hazards as other members of staff, but their shoes need to be especially professional and smart. Manager’s shoes should offer the same protection and slip-resistance but be professional as they’ll be dealing with clients.
For women, we’d recommend Roma81 thanks to its excellent safety features and professional appearance.
For men, Exec Wing Tip (S2) is durable, dependable and stylish.
Manufacturing plants, factory lines and construction sites are all demanding workplaces and require shoes that meet high standards. Look out for CE and S Certifications which are awarded to shoes that conform with EU safety directives.
X111081 safety shoes have been awarded both the CE and S3 Certificates, making them perfect for even the most demanding and arduous tasks.
There are different hazards to think about if you work outdoors. We’ve already mentioned the importance of waterproof materials when it comes to safety shoes but you should also think about insulation.
Working in the cold outdoors in the wrong pair of shoes can lead to your feet and toes becoming very cold, leading to blisters, chilblains and even frostbite. When searching for outdoor safety shoes, see if they offer insulation to keep your feet warm as well as dry.
PU Sentinel boots offer protection at temperatures as low as -20°C, allowing you to get on with your job without worrying about cold feet.
Need Help Finding Safety Shoes?
If you’re still don’t know when to replace safety shoes or you’re not sure which pair are right for you, then download our catalogue today. It’s packed with helpful tips and recommendations that can help you find the perfect pair of safety shoes, whatever your job role. Download our free catalogue now using the link below.