Regardless of the user’s gender, the best work boots boil down to the same essential features. The only gender-specific difference in choosing work boots is foot ergonomics concerning the distinctive contour of feminine feet. Here are some valuable points to consider in choosing the best women’s safety boots for you.
The Work Boots You Choose Should Possess the Necessary Protective Features
Naturally, your preferred work boots will depend on the line of work you are involved in. And considering your work environment, you might be looking for specific safety features appropriate to the nature of your job. Nonetheless, whatever your profession may be, protective features to look for in work boots should include durability, puncture resistance, heat resistance, water resistance, protection from molten metal, as well as protection from Regardless of the user’s gender, the best work boots boil down to the same essential features. The only electrical hazards.
Foot Ergonomics is Crucial in Safety and Comfort
The correct shoe fit is necessary for comfort. Among other notable differences, a woman’s foot usually has a smaller instep, a shorter ankle-length, and a higher arch than a man’s. Thus for your comfort and safety, choose to buy work boots specifically designed for the distinct contours of a woman’s foot instead of settling for modified men’s boots.
The width is another major ergonomic issue when shopping for women’s work boots. Shrinking men’s boots to the ideal length of a woman’s foot is not enough. Width should not be overlooked. Boots that are too short, narrow and tight are uncomfortable throughout the day and downright painful at the end of the day. On the other hand, boots that are too long, wide and loose are equally uncomfortable and unsafe in the workplace. Ill-fitting shoes can cause chafing, blistering, hot spots and slipping injuries.
To find the right fit and shoe size:
- Wear your usual work socks. Ideally, work boots require socks made of polyester, wool or synthetic blends that cushion your soles adequately.
- Sliding your foot forward so that your toes touch the boot’s front, insert your index finger behind your heel so that it fits snugly in front of your boot’s back. This is the ideal shoe length that provides the best comfort. Do this separately on both left and right boots since our feet are rarely symmetrical.
- Shoelaces should be tied just tightly enough so that your feet do not slide towards the front of the booth when walking.
- For adequate support, the boots should be flexible at the ball area of your feet and not along the arch.
- As a final note, shopping for the right shoe fit and size is best done after working hours when your feet have swollen and expanded to their maximum size.
Arch Support Insoles are a Must-have
While you can buy a nice pair of work boots complete with insoles, more often than not, the support they offer remains inadequate – thus causing foot problems like metatarsalgia, tendonitis and Plantar fasciitis. To help keep your hips, knees and back in proper alignment, invest in good quality, gender-specific arch support insoles to relieve pressure and keep heel pain at bay.
Two Pairs are Better than One
Women’s safety boots can be made serviceable for longer by investing in an extra pair and rotating the two pairs alternately. This arrangement allows more time for complete drying between uses. The use of leather conditioners can also extend your work shoes’ longevity.
