It’s easy to be put off buying Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) shoes and choosing a cheaper high street alternative. But is this the right choice? The answer is, no, cheaper footwear is a poor substitute that will only lead to you harming your feet and having to spend more money in the long run. PPE shoes for warehouse work, however, are specially designed to protect your feet.
Here are other reasons why they're worth it.
Safety
Safety is a vital factor of the perfect shoe when working in a warehouse. You want to be reassured in the knowledge that you'll be protected from the potential hazards of a warehouse workplace.
Heavy falling objects, spilt hazardous liquids and slippery floors are examples of the hazards that could be present. PPE shoes have been industry tested and come with various safety features to ensure that these hazards don't harm you, your team or your productivity.
For example, warehouse floors might be slippery due to spillages that don’t get cleaned up properly or the excess water from cleaning it up. PPE shoes with slip-resistant outsoles can combat this hazard, leaving you confident that you aren't going to end up on the floor and can still work at an optimum level.
Whereas, if you were wearing a normal shoe, it’d be similar to trying to navigate an ice rink. Not ideal.
We recommend Roma81 to keep you safe at all times. These shoes offer maximum support and protect your feet against any falling objects. The tapered and clog-resistant sole will eliminate any chances of slips, trips and falls too.
Price
People often think that PPE shoes are too expensive and this price tag can be off-putting. So, they’ll then opt for a cheaper high street alternative. But will the alternative last as long as a specialist shoe? In most cases, probably not. Instead you'll have to spend a lot more replacing these cheaper shoes.
Not only this but PPE shoes also justify their price tag. They’re industry-specific and specially created with your job and its unique hazards in mind, unlike high street shoes which are predominantly made for fashion purposes.
Durability
PPE shoes are made to last. Warehouse operatives’ days are long and you’re often constantly on your feet throughout your shift. So, you need a shoe that's durable. A cheaper high street shoe will no doubt wear down a lot quicker than an industry-specific shoe would.
Industry-specific shoes, however, are built to last as they're made from premium materials and come with sophisticated safety features.
Having to buy new shoes all the time can start to wear thin after the second time around. You need to trust that your work shoes are going to see you through your shifts for the foreseeable future. Plus, you’ve got to be confident that you’re going to get your money’s worth, rather than the shoes wearing down after a month or two at best.
X1100N81 are built to last and support you through the most gruelling of shifts. Waterproof, puncture proof and clog-resistant safety features mean this shoe is ready for anything the workplace may throw at it.
Comfort
Arguably, the most vital factor is that your shoes are super comfortable and kind to your feet, right? Well, industry-specific work shoes are designed with the fact that you’re on your feet all day.
Warehouse workers are usually on their feet all day, lifting and manoeuvring heavy objects. This can be very stressful on your entire body, not just your feet - especially if you're wearing the wrong shoes.
Inappropriate shoes can put a lot of pressure on your shins, ankles, joints and your back. The last thing you want is to get home from a tiring, demanding shift only to be uncomfortable and in pain, unable to relax.
Comfortable shoes will help you to work at your best at all times throughout your shift. If your feet aren’t hurting and are comfortable, you can be more productive and efficient.
Stay comfortable all day, every day with Dolce81. The shoes are a natural fit and are lightweight too, perfect for those fast-paced shifts.
Style
Many people prefer high street shoes because they appear to be more fashionable. But, as we mentioned earlier, these shoes are designed for fashion purposes and not safety so they won't protect you from hazards in the workplace.
Ask yourself this: Would you rather look good and unfortunately get injured? Or still look good and be completely protected?
Contrary to popular belief, PPE shoes don’t have to be big, ugly and chunky. They come in different styles and can fit in with the majority of wardrobes, whether it's work or casual. There are many smart, fashionable styles that allow you to look good at work and command a professional impression of the business and its workforce.
Rocket81 are a prime example of PPE shoes that are stylish. Not only do they provide the right support, but they're also designed with a composite toe to protect the foot from hazards too.
Find Out More About Warehouse Safety
Warehouse safety is incredibly important. Nobody wants to run the risk of becoming injured and having to have time off work.
If you’re not sure of the many hazards and risks that can come with working in a warehouse, download our free guide below. It covers everything you’ll need to know.