ATOM Blog

The Ultimate Safety Boots Guide

Written by ATOM | Aug 19, 2022 4:48:48 AM
Get the right boots for the job with ATOM Safety's guide to selecting safety boots. If you're still not sure what boots you require, reach out to the ATOM Safety team for assistance.
 

Fastening

 

 
 
Pull On
 
Pull on boots feature elastic sides that stretch to allow the boot to be easily pulled on off. The loose sides are convenient but provide very little ankle support.

 

 

Lace-Up

Lace-up boots enable you to get the best tension possible. If laced correctly they provide good ankle support.

 

 
 
Zip Side
 
Zip side boots also utilise laces to ensure the best fit and ankle support, but allow for quick on and off.

 

 
Boa®
 
The Boa® Closure system utilises stainless steel and nylon laces that are controlled by a spinning dial. To tighten laces, spin the dial. To release the laces, pull the dial. This system allows for a snug fit every time, with even tension minimising pressure points.

Toe Caps

Steel toe caps are mandatory on many work sites and are often the more popular choice over
composite toe caps but do you know the benefits of choosing a composite cap?
 
Steel Toe Cap
A steel toe cap provides good protection from falling objects, and are mandatory on most job sites, making them a popular choice. Although they provide the best toe protection, they are heavier than composite toe caps.
 
Composite Toe Cap
Composite toe caps provide a lightweight alternative to the steel cap but provides less protection from falling objects. Because they contain no metal, they are non‑conductive and airport friendly, making them a good choice for FIFO workers.
 

With Bump Cap

A non-safety polyurethane bump cap provides protection to the toe area of the boot. It protects the boot from damage to the toe area often increasing the lifetime of the boot.

Non-Safety

These boots do not contain a safety cap. They are lightweight and suitable if you are not required to wear safety boots, but still want good quality, supportive footwear.

Outer Sole

TPU
TPU (Thermo Plastic Urethane) is non-slip and provides resistance against most oils and chemicals. It is high strength, with tolerance against abrasion, splitting, cracking and cuts. A TPU sole will withstand up to 130ºC (266ºF).
 
Rubber
Rubber is a common out-sole as it typically has excellent oil and slip resistant properties. It is also waterproof, easy to clean and can be heat resistant up to 300ºC.
 
Nitrile
A nitrile out-sole provides great chemical and heat resistance, up to 300ºC (or 572ºF). It also has premium non-slip capabilities and resistance against abrasion, splitting, cracking and cuts.

Mid Sole 

The mid sole, typically made out of polyurethane, helps to cushion your feet for all day comfort. Some boots also include a puncture resistant plate that reduces the risks of sharp objects penetrating the sole. This is ideal if you work on a construction site.

Inner Sole

The inner sole is what your feet sit on all day. Ensuring you have a good quality insole will increase your foots comfort. They should cushion and support your feet, look for an option that is made out of soft polyurethane (PU). If you require extra cushioning, ATOM have a range of boot insoles to provide even more support.

Specialist Boots

Work in a niche industry with unique boot specifications? ATOM Safety have access to boots for mining and firefighting, electrical hazard boots, boots with metatarsal guards, boots with high ankles and much more!
 
Browse our range of Safety Footwear today or Contact an ATOM Safety team member to find out more.