What Makes the Most Comfortable Work Boots in Australia?
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Need a new pair of boots for the job site? Well, there are many factors that go into choosing the right boot. You want the right balance of support, style, and protection as you will be spending extended periods of time in these shoes.
In today’s article, we outline a number of key features work boots, or safety boots, should have.
1. The bending point of the work boots
The way a work boot moves should match the way your foot moves. Ideally, since the foot only bends at one point (where the toes meet your foot), the boots should also bend in this area.
Finding the right boot that matches the biomechanics of your foot might require some trial and error, but it is well worth it since you will be putting them through a hard day’s work. A new pair of work boots might require a bit of break-in time.
2. How easily the boot twists
Work boots have the specialized function of protecting your feet on the job. Therefore, they will often be more rigid than, say, an athletic shoe. A supportive shoe will have a snug fit that wraps around and stabilizes your feet. This reduces fatigue as your feet will be working more efficiently.
3. The fit of the heel cup
The heel cup of a safety boot is the part that supports the heel area. It is one of the most important boot features to consider when purchasing new boots. The heel cup should be firm and envelope your heel, but should not be too tight as this can lead to blisters.
4. How the front of the boot aligns with the back
The alignment between the front of a shoe and its heel can indicate how supportive and functional it will be. With poorly made shoes, the front is not quite level with the back, and so, with each step that is taken, the muscles of your foot will be working to correct for the misalignment. Over long hours, this can quickly lead to leg fatigue.
5. The structure of the midsole
In work boots, the midsole is the layer of the boot sandwiched between the insole (layer in contact with your foot) and the outsole (layer touching the ground). This layer should provide a good amount of shock absorption against the many hard surfaces of a job site. It should also be sturdy enough so that it does not wear out too quickly.
An EVA midsole is designed to cushion the foot and reduce fatigue. It has the perfect amount of density that makes boots extremely comfortable and, at the same time, provides support to the feet, knees, and legs.
6. The arch support
You should pay particular attention to this if you suffer from conditions such as flat feet or plantar fasciitis. Most feet require some form of arch support to maintain good foot health.
We suggest opting for a work boot that has a full-length orthotic insole that is slip resistant and holds up under harsh conditions. How high the arch support is may depend on personal preferences, but a well-made insole can make a world of difference in how comfortable the boots feel, especially after wearing them for long hours.
If the work boot does not come with a built-in insole, here are some that come highly recommended by podiatrists and other healthcare professionals:
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7. How the boot is fastened to the foot
In general, we recommend selecting a work boot that has a zipper and laces. A side zip will make it much easier to both put on and take off the boots, and laces will allow you to tighten the boot as it stretches with age.
Wearing boots made with full-grain leather can loosen them up over time. Using a leather conditioner can help preserve the integrity of the exterior.
An elastic-sided boot offers an added degree of flexibility that also keeps the boot firmly secured around the foot and ankle.
8. The wideness of the boot
The best work boots offer a wide range of fits for the different kinds of feet out there. If you have broad feet, a wider set shoe will offer a higher degree of comfort.
9. Other safety boot features
Work boots come in a big range of different flavors. On a job where there will be heavy machinery and bulky items, it might be a good idea to select a shoe with a steel toe cap. Work boots with a scuff toe protector can also help to keep your boots looking good for longer.
There are boots that contain a high-quality polyurethane shank that adds a bit of stiffness to the boot. This helps to reduce strain on the midfoot and increase stability over slippery surfaces. Some boots offer a steel shank instead.
Other safety features include heat-resistant materials, anti-bacterial technology, and electrical hazard protection.
Hopefully, this article provided some assistance on what to look for in an excellent all-round boot. If you have any additional questions on the best boots and footwear available in Australia, please feel free to comment below or reach out to us at Docpods.