Different safety shoes explained briefly and precisely
Different safety shoes explained briefly and precisely
Safety shoes are indispensable when you work on a construction site, in a workshop or in other environments where there is a risk of impact, falling objects or slippery surfaces. The right shoes can make a significant difference to both comfort and safety in everyday life. In this article, you will get an overview of what to look for when choosing safety shoes, as well as a review of different types and well-known brands.
The article presents a wide range of safety shoes, ranging from lightweight models to heavier and more robust variants. The aim is to provide an overview of features, materials and areas of use, so you can more easily find the type that suits your work and your needs. The information about the products is based on publicly available descriptions from manufacturers and retailers and is summarised to provide a clear and practical overview.
Factors to consider when buying a safety shoe
When choosing safety shoes, it is important to take into account both the level of protection, comfort and work environment. Here are some of the most important factors you should consider.
1. Safety class
Safety shoes are divided into classes (S1, S2, S3, etc.), which indicate the level of protection. S1 covers basic safety with toe cap and antistatic properties, while S3 also protects against water penetration and has a slip-resistant sole. Choose the class according to your work environment.
2. Material and weight
Lightweight materials such as microfibre and mesh provide good breathability and comfort, while leather and composite materials offer higher durability. If you move a lot during the day, a lighter shoe can reduce fatigue.
3. Toe cap and midsole
The toe cap can be made of steel, aluminium or composite. Steel provides maximum protection, while composite is lighter and does not conduct cold. The midsole protects against penetration from sharp objects and can also be made of steel or flexible textile.
4. Slip resistance and sole type
A slip-resistant sole is crucial on smooth or uneven surfaces. Look for shoes with SRC certification, which means they are tested on both ceramic and steel surfaces. Some models also have oil- and chemical-resistant soles.
5. Comfort and fit
Comfort is crucial, especially if you wear the shoes all day. Choose a model with good cushioning, breathable insole and appropriate width. A correct fit reduces the risk of fatigue and injury.
6. Design and functionality
Modern safety shoes come in many designs – from classic work boots to sporty sneaker-like models. Consider whether you prefer laces, BOA closure or slip-on, depending on how often you take the shoes on and off.
Products in focus
The COFRA Burst S3 SRC is a safety shoe designed to protect the feet in work environments with high demands for both safety and comfort. The shoe is made of black material and meets the S3 classification, meaning it is water-repellent, has a toe cap and puncture protection, as well as a slip-resistant outsole.
The SRC-certified sole provides extra good grip on both wet and slippery surfaces, reducing the risk of accidents. The combination of a shock-absorbing midsole and ergonomic insole contributes to a comfortable fit, even during prolonged use.
The shoe is suitable for use in industry, construction, and crafts, where solid protection against impact, pressure, and penetration from sharp objects is required. The black colour and simple design also make it suitable for many work situations.
- S3 safety classification: Water-repellent upper, puncture protection, and toe cap for maximum protection.
- SRC slip resistance: Outsole tested to provide secure grip on both slippery and wet surfaces.
- Comfortable fit: Shock-absorbing midsole and ergonomic insole for long-term use.
- Durable design: Made from hard-wearing materials that withstand demanding working conditions.
- Neutral black colour: Matches most work uniforms and environments.
Pros and cons
- Meets S3 and SRC safety standards
- Good slip resistance on various surfaces
- Comfortable for long working days
- Robust construction with water-repellent properties
- May feel heavier than lighter safety shoes in lower safety classes
- Less breathability on hot days due to the tight construction
Pros and cons
Pros
- Meets S3 and SRC safety standards
- Good slip resistance on various surfaces
- Comfortable for long working days
- Robust construction with water-repellent properties
Cons
- May feel heavier than lighter safety shoes in lower safety classes
- Less breathability on hot days due to the tight construction
Pros
- Meets S3 and SRC safety standards
- Good slip resistance on various surfaces
- Comfortable for long working days
- Robust construction with water-repellent properties
Cons
- May feel heavier than lighter safety shoes in lower safety classes
- Less breathability on hot days due to the tight construction
Specifications
- Brand: COFRA
- Model: Burst
- Colour: Black
- Size: 39
- Safety class: S3
- Slip resistance: SRC
- Toe cap: Yes
- Puncture protection: Yes
- Water-repellent: Yes
- Application area: Industry, construction, and crafts
The Milwaukee FXT S3S B1L110133 is a safety shoe developed to provide both protection and comfort in demanding work environments. It is made with a flexible and lightweight construction, making it suitable for daily use by craftsmen and technicians.
The shoe is equipped with ENERGY FOAM cushioning, which reduces strain on the feet and provides comfortable walking comfort throughout the working day. It also has ROLLCAGE™ stabilisation in the heel, which increases stability on uneven surfaces.
The BOA® Fit System ensures precise and quick adjustment, so the shoe can be tightened and loosened easily – even with gloves on. The upper is made of water-repellent leather that protects against moisture, dust and dirt, while the reinforced front protects the toe cap from wear.
The construction is largely metal-free, making the shoe suitable for workplaces with metal detectors. It is ESD-certified and meets the requirements of the EN ISO 20345:2022 S3S ESD SC FO SR standard, which means it provides high protection against impact, slipping and electrical discharge.
- Comfortable cushioning: ENERGY FOAM reduces strain and increases comfort.
- Easy adjustment: BOA® Fit System provides quick and precise adjustment.
- Stable heel construction: ROLLCAGE™ technology improves stability on uneven surfaces.
- Water-repellent upper: Leather material protects against water and dirt.
- Safety certification: Meets the EN ISO 20345:2022 S3S ESD SC FO SR standard.
Pros and cons
- Lightweight and flexible construction
- High comfort with ENERGY FOAM cushioning
- BOA® closure for quick adjustment
- Water-repellent and durable upper
- ESD-certified and metal-free design
- The BOA® system requires some getting used to for users who prefer traditional laces
- The advanced construction may make the price higher than standard models
Pros and cons
Pros
- Lightweight and flexible construction
- High comfort with ENERGY FOAM cushioning
- BOA® closure for quick adjustment
- Water-repellent and durable upper
- ESD-certified and metal-free design
Cons
- The BOA® system requires some getting used to for users who prefer traditional laces
- The advanced construction may make the price higher than standard models
Pros
- Lightweight and flexible construction
- High comfort with ENERGY FOAM cushioning
- BOA® closure for quick adjustment
- Water-repellent and durable upper
- ESD-certified and metal-free design
Cons
- The BOA® system requires some getting used to for users who prefer traditional laces
- The advanced construction may make the price higher than standard models
Specifications
- Brand: Milwaukee
- Model: FXT S3S B1L110133
- Size: 36
- Item number (SKU): 4932498106-18
- Upper: Water-repellent leather
- Closure: BOA® Fit System
- Cushioning: ENERGY FOAM
- Stability: ROLLCAGE™ heel construction
- Certification: EN ISO 20345:2022 S3S ESD SC FO SR
- Construction: Metal-free (except BOA® buckle)
- Colour: Black
The EuroDan Flex safety clog with cap in black leather is designed to provide both protection and comfort for daily use. The wide, foot-shaped fit and padded instep contribute to a comfortable experience, even during extended use.
The clog is equipped with a pronose and a Texon insole, which support the foot and contribute to stability. The antistatic PU sole is both slip-resistant and shock-absorbing, reducing strain on the back and joints during work.
The sole is heat-resistant up to 140 °C and resistant to oil and petrol, making the model suitable for many types of workplaces. It can be washed at 30 °C, which makes maintenance easier.
The product is certified according to EN ISO 20345:2011 S2+SRC, which documents that it meets current safety standards for footwear with protective toe caps.
- Material: Black leather with padded instep and Texon insole.
- Sole: Antistatic PU sole, slip-resistant, shock-absorbing and heat-resistant up to 140 °C.
- Safety: Approved according to EN ISO 20345:2011 S2+SRC.
- Comfort: Wide foot shape and EuroDan shock absorber for better support.
- Maintenance: Washable at 30 °C.
Pros and cons
- Robust leather construction with good durability
- Slip-resistant and shock-absorbing sole
- Heat, oil and petrol resistant
- Wide fit and padded instep for increased comfort
- Can be washed at 30 °C
- Leather requires regular care to maintain flexibility and appearance
- The clog’s open design provides less ankle protection than closed safety shoes
Pros and cons
Pros
- Robust leather construction with good durability
- Slip-resistant and shock-absorbing sole
- Heat, oil and petrol resistant
- Wide fit and padded instep for increased comfort
- Can be washed at 30 °C
Cons
- Leather requires regular care to maintain flexibility and appearance
- The clog’s open design provides less ankle protection than closed safety shoes
Pros
- Robust leather construction with good durability
- Slip-resistant and shock-absorbing sole
- Heat, oil and petrol resistant
- Wide fit and padded instep for increased comfort
- Can be washed at 30 °C
Cons
- Leather requires regular care to maintain flexibility and appearance
- The clog’s open design provides less ankle protection than closed safety shoes
Specifications
- Brand: EuroDan
- Model: Flex safety clogs with cap
- Colour: Black
- Size: 38
- Material: Leather
- Sole: Antistatic PU, slip-resistant, shock-absorbing, heat-resistant up to 140 °C
- Approval: EN ISO 20345:2011 S2+SRC
- Washability: 30 °C
- SKU: 61931003038
The Milwaukee FLEXTRED™ S1PS B1L110133 is a safety shoe developed for tradespeople who need both freedom of movement and protection. It is constructed with a textile upper that provides ventilation and breathability throughout the workday.
The shoe is equipped with the BOA® Fit System, a precise and user-friendly lacing system that allows for quick adjustment of the fit – even while wearing gloves. The flexible ENERGY FOAM midsole contributes to shock absorption and comfort, while the ROLLCAGE™ heel construction provides stability on uneven surfaces.
The front of the shoe is reinforced to protect the toe cap from wear, and the metal-free construction (except for the BOA® dial) makes it suitable for environments with metal detectors. The outsole is designed to provide a secure grip and reduce the risk of slipping.
The model is ESD-certified and meets the requirements of the EN ISO 20345:2022 S1PS ESD FO SR standard, ensuring documented protection against electrostatic discharge, perforation, and slipping.
- BOA® Fit System: Quick and precise adjustment of the fit.
- ENERGY FOAM midsole: Provides shock absorption and comfort during long-term use.
- ROLLCAGE™ heel support: Increases stability on uneven surfaces.
- Ventilated textile upper: Ensures breathability and comfort all day.
- Metal-free construction: Suitable for use in environments with metal detectors.
- Certified protection: EN ISO 20345:2022 S1PS ESD FO SR.
Pros and cons
- Lightweight and flexible construction
- Quick closure with BOA® system
- Good ventilation and breathability
- Shock-absorbing midsole
- Stable heel and slip-resistant sole
- The BOA® system requires adjustment for users who prefer traditional laces
- Primarily suitable for dry working conditions, as the upper is textile-based
Pros and cons
Pros
- Lightweight and flexible construction
- Quick closure with BOA® system
- Good ventilation and breathability
- Shock-absorbing midsole
- Stable heel and slip-resistant sole
Cons
- The BOA® system requires adjustment for users who prefer traditional laces
- Primarily suitable for dry working conditions, as the upper is textile-based
Pros
- Lightweight and flexible construction
- Quick closure with BOA® system
- Good ventilation and breathability
- Shock-absorbing midsole
- Stable heel and slip-resistant sole
Cons
- The BOA® system requires adjustment for users who prefer traditional laces
- Primarily suitable for dry working conditions, as the upper is textile-based
Specifications
- Brand: Milwaukee
- Model: FLEXTRED™ S1PS B1L110133
- Size: 36
- Colour: Black
- Certification: EN ISO 20345:2022 S1PS ESD FO SR
- Upper: Textile
- Lacing system: BOA® Fit System
- Midsole: ENERGY FOAM
- Heel construction: ROLLCAGE™
- Construction: Metal-free (except BOA® dial)
- Item number (SKU): 4932498080-92
Product descriptions
The COFRA Burst S3 SRC is a safety shoe designed to protect the feet in work environments with high demands for both safety and comfort. The shoe is made of black material and meets the S3 classification, meaning it is water-repellent, has a toe cap and puncture protection, as well as a slip-resistant outsole.
The SRC-certified sole provides extra good grip on both wet and slippery surfaces, reducing the risk of accidents. The combination of a shock-absorbing midsole and ergonomic insole contributes to a comfortable fit, even during prolonged use.
The shoe is suitable for use in industry, construction, and crafts, where solid protection against impact, pressure, and penetration from sharp objects is required. The black colour and simple design also make it suitable for many work situations.
- S3 safety classification: Water-repellent upper, puncture protection, and toe cap for maximum protection.
- SRC slip resistance: Outsole tested to provide secure grip on both slippery and wet surfaces.
- Comfortable fit: Shock-absorbing midsole and ergonomic insole for long-term use.
- Durable design: Made from hard-wearing materials that withstand demanding working conditions.
- Neutral black colour: Matches most work uniforms and environments.
Pros and cons
- Meets S3 and SRC safety standards
- Good slip resistance on various surfaces
- Comfortable for long working days
- Robust construction with water-repellent properties
- May feel heavier than lighter safety shoes in lower safety classes
- Less breathability on hot days due to the tight construction
Pros and cons
Pros
- Meets S3 and SRC safety standards
- Good slip resistance on various surfaces
- Comfortable for long working days
- Robust construction with water-repellent properties
Cons
- May feel heavier than lighter safety shoes in lower safety classes
- Less breathability on hot days due to the tight construction
Pros
- Meets S3 and SRC safety standards
- Good slip resistance on various surfaces
- Comfortable for long working days
- Robust construction with water-repellent properties
Cons
- May feel heavier than lighter safety shoes in lower safety classes
- Less breathability on hot days due to the tight construction
Specifications
- Brand: COFRA
- Model: Burst
- Colour: Black
- Size: 39
- Safety class: S3
- Slip resistance: SRC
- Toe cap: Yes
- Puncture protection: Yes
- Water-repellent: Yes
- Application area: Industry, construction, and crafts
The Milwaukee FXT S3S B1L110133 is a safety shoe developed to provide both protection and comfort in demanding work environments. It is made with a flexible and lightweight construction, making it suitable for daily use by craftsmen and technicians.
The shoe is equipped with ENERGY FOAM cushioning, which reduces strain on the feet and provides comfortable walking comfort throughout the working day. It also has ROLLCAGE™ stabilisation in the heel, which increases stability on uneven surfaces.
The BOA® Fit System ensures precise and quick adjustment, so the shoe can be tightened and loosened easily – even with gloves on. The upper is made of water-repellent leather that protects against moisture, dust and dirt, while the reinforced front protects the toe cap from wear.
The construction is largely metal-free, making the shoe suitable for workplaces with metal detectors. It is ESD-certified and meets the requirements of the EN ISO 20345:2022 S3S ESD SC FO SR standard, which means it provides high protection against impact, slipping and electrical discharge.
- Comfortable cushioning: ENERGY FOAM reduces strain and increases comfort.
- Easy adjustment: BOA® Fit System provides quick and precise adjustment.
- Stable heel construction: ROLLCAGE™ technology improves stability on uneven surfaces.
- Water-repellent upper: Leather material protects against water and dirt.
- Safety certification: Meets the EN ISO 20345:2022 S3S ESD SC FO SR standard.
Pros and cons
- Lightweight and flexible construction
- High comfort with ENERGY FOAM cushioning
- BOA® closure for quick adjustment
- Water-repellent and durable upper
- ESD-certified and metal-free design
- The BOA® system requires some getting used to for users who prefer traditional laces
- The advanced construction may make the price higher than standard models
Pros and cons
Pros
- Lightweight and flexible construction
- High comfort with ENERGY FOAM cushioning
- BOA® closure for quick adjustment
- Water-repellent and durable upper
- ESD-certified and metal-free design
Cons
- The BOA® system requires some getting used to for users who prefer traditional laces
- The advanced construction may make the price higher than standard models
Pros
- Lightweight and flexible construction
- High comfort with ENERGY FOAM cushioning
- BOA® closure for quick adjustment
- Water-repellent and durable upper
- ESD-certified and metal-free design
Cons
- The BOA® system requires some getting used to for users who prefer traditional laces
- The advanced construction may make the price higher than standard models
Specifications
- Brand: Milwaukee
- Model: FXT S3S B1L110133
- Size: 36
- Item number (SKU): 4932498106-18
- Upper: Water-repellent leather
- Closure: BOA® Fit System
- Cushioning: ENERGY FOAM
- Stability: ROLLCAGE™ heel construction
- Certification: EN ISO 20345:2022 S3S ESD SC FO SR
- Construction: Metal-free (except BOA® buckle)
- Colour: Black
The EuroDan Flex safety clog with cap in black leather is designed to provide both protection and comfort for daily use. The wide, foot-shaped fit and padded instep contribute to a comfortable experience, even during extended use.
The clog is equipped with a pronose and a Texon insole, which support the foot and contribute to stability. The antistatic PU sole is both slip-resistant and shock-absorbing, reducing strain on the back and joints during work.
The sole is heat-resistant up to 140 °C and resistant to oil and petrol, making the model suitable for many types of workplaces. It can be washed at 30 °C, which makes maintenance easier.
The product is certified according to EN ISO 20345:2011 S2+SRC, which documents that it meets current safety standards for footwear with protective toe caps.
- Material: Black leather with padded instep and Texon insole.
- Sole: Antistatic PU sole, slip-resistant, shock-absorbing and heat-resistant up to 140 °C.
- Safety: Approved according to EN ISO 20345:2011 S2+SRC.
- Comfort: Wide foot shape and EuroDan shock absorber for better support.
- Maintenance: Washable at 30 °C.
Pros and cons
- Robust leather construction with good durability
- Slip-resistant and shock-absorbing sole
- Heat, oil and petrol resistant
- Wide fit and padded instep for increased comfort
- Can be washed at 30 °C
- Leather requires regular care to maintain flexibility and appearance
- The clog’s open design provides less ankle protection than closed safety shoes
Pros and cons
Pros
- Robust leather construction with good durability
- Slip-resistant and shock-absorbing sole
- Heat, oil and petrol resistant
- Wide fit and padded instep for increased comfort
- Can be washed at 30 °C
Cons
- Leather requires regular care to maintain flexibility and appearance
- The clog’s open design provides less ankle protection than closed safety shoes
Pros
- Robust leather construction with good durability
- Slip-resistant and shock-absorbing sole
- Heat, oil and petrol resistant
- Wide fit and padded instep for increased comfort
- Can be washed at 30 °C
Cons
- Leather requires regular care to maintain flexibility and appearance
- The clog’s open design provides less ankle protection than closed safety shoes
Specifications
- Brand: EuroDan
- Model: Flex safety clogs with cap
- Colour: Black
- Size: 38
- Material: Leather
- Sole: Antistatic PU, slip-resistant, shock-absorbing, heat-resistant up to 140 °C
- Approval: EN ISO 20345:2011 S2+SRC
- Washability: 30 °C
- SKU: 61931003038
The Milwaukee FLEXTRED™ S1PS B1L110133 is a safety shoe developed for tradespeople who need both freedom of movement and protection. It is constructed with a textile upper that provides ventilation and breathability throughout the workday.
The shoe is equipped with the BOA® Fit System, a precise and user-friendly lacing system that allows for quick adjustment of the fit – even while wearing gloves. The flexible ENERGY FOAM midsole contributes to shock absorption and comfort, while the ROLLCAGE™ heel construction provides stability on uneven surfaces.
The front of the shoe is reinforced to protect the toe cap from wear, and the metal-free construction (except for the BOA® dial) makes it suitable for environments with metal detectors. The outsole is designed to provide a secure grip and reduce the risk of slipping.
The model is ESD-certified and meets the requirements of the EN ISO 20345:2022 S1PS ESD FO SR standard, ensuring documented protection against electrostatic discharge, perforation, and slipping.
- BOA® Fit System: Quick and precise adjustment of the fit.
- ENERGY FOAM midsole: Provides shock absorption and comfort during long-term use.
- ROLLCAGE™ heel support: Increases stability on uneven surfaces.
- Ventilated textile upper: Ensures breathability and comfort all day.
- Metal-free construction: Suitable for use in environments with metal detectors.
- Certified protection: EN ISO 20345:2022 S1PS ESD FO SR.
Pros and cons
- Lightweight and flexible construction
- Quick closure with BOA® system
- Good ventilation and breathability
- Shock-absorbing midsole
- Stable heel and slip-resistant sole
- The BOA® system requires adjustment for users who prefer traditional laces
- Primarily suitable for dry working conditions, as the upper is textile-based
Pros and cons
Pros
- Lightweight and flexible construction
- Quick closure with BOA® system
- Good ventilation and breathability
- Shock-absorbing midsole
- Stable heel and slip-resistant sole
Cons
- The BOA® system requires adjustment for users who prefer traditional laces
- Primarily suitable for dry working conditions, as the upper is textile-based
Pros
- Lightweight and flexible construction
- Quick closure with BOA® system
- Good ventilation and breathability
- Shock-absorbing midsole
- Stable heel and slip-resistant sole
Cons
- The BOA® system requires adjustment for users who prefer traditional laces
- Primarily suitable for dry working conditions, as the upper is textile-based
Specifications
- Brand: Milwaukee
- Model: FLEXTRED™ S1PS B1L110133
- Size: 36
- Colour: Black
- Certification: EN ISO 20345:2022 S1PS ESD FO SR
- Upper: Textile
- Lacing system: BOA® Fit System
- Midsole: ENERGY FOAM
- Heel construction: ROLLCAGE™
- Construction: Metal-free (except BOA® dial)
- Item number (SKU): 4932498080-92
Different types of safety shoes
Safety shoes come in many variants, adapted to different work environments and needs. Here are some of the most common types.
1. Work shoes with toe cap
These shoes protect the toes from impact and pressure and are a minimum requirement in many industries. They are available in both low and high models and are suitable for general craftsmanship and industrial work.
2. Water-repellent safety boots
For outdoor work or wet environments, water-repellent boots are ideal. They keep your feet dry and warm and often have extra reinforcement around the ankle for better support.
3. Lightweight safety shoes
Lightweight models are popular among tradespeople who move a lot. They combine low weight with high comfort and are often made with a composite toe cap and flexible sole.
4. ESD and antistatic shoes
These shoes are designed for environments where static electricity can be a problem – e.g. electronics production. They safely conduct electricity away from the body and protect both the user and the equipment.
5. Safety sandals
For warm working days or indoor use, safety sandals can be a good choice. They offer the same protection as regular safety shoes but with better ventilation.
Different brands of safety shoes
The market for safety shoes includes many well-known manufacturers, each with their own focus areas and strengths.
Puma Safety
Puma Safety combines sporty design with high functionality. Their models are known for low weight, good comfort and modern appearance, making them popular among tradespeople and technicians.
Jalas
Jalas is a Scandinavian brand that focuses on ergonomics and safety. The shoes are developed with advanced sole systems that reduce strain on the feet and back.
Bata Industrials
Bata Industrials offers a wide range of safety shoes for different industries. They are known for durability and comfort, and many models have extra focus on ventilation and moisture management.
Solid Gear
Solid Gear combines robustness with modern technology. Their shoes often use BOA closure and advanced materials that provide both flexibility and protection.
Cofra
Cofra is an Italian brand focusing on quality and innovation. They offer everything from classic work boots to lightweight sneaker models that meet high safety standards.
Frequently asked questions
Which safety class should I choose?
It depends on your work. If you work indoors without risk of water, S1 or S1P is often sufficient. For outdoor or humid environments, you should choose S3 for extra protection against water and penetration.
How do I know if the shoes fit correctly?
The shoes should fit snugly around the heel without pinching the toes. Try them on at the end of the day when your feet are slightly swollen to ensure the right fit.
How long does a pair of safety shoes last?
The lifespan depends on use and environment, but typically 6–12 months with daily use. Replace the shoes if the sole wears down or the protection is compromised.
Can I use insoles in safety shoes?
Yes, many models allow replacement of insoles. However, make sure that the shoe’s safety certification still applies if you replace the insole.
How do I maintain my safety shoes?
Clean the shoes regularly with a damp cloth and let them dry at room temperature. Avoid direct heat, which can damage the material. Use impregnation to extend the lifespan of leather or textile models.
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