Tips to Choose the Right Boot for Your Industry

1. Consider activity levels when deciding the proper insulation comfort rating.
If you’re driving a forklift, a higher level of insulation will be required to keep feet warm and safe. More active jobs require a lower insulation rating. Other employees, such as truck drivers, may need no insulation at all.
2. Thermoplastic and steel toes are capable of resisting a heavy falling object.
Safety toes protect you from injury and lost time.
3. Wet conditions require a boot that has more surface contact.
Consider your environment and weigh that against slip resistance ratings to choose the best boot.
4. Choose the height of the upper based on the amount of leg support needed.
Employees who frequently climb ladders need more flexibility in the ankle, and might need a lower boot height. Employees who require more leg support and less flexibility will need higher boot heights.

Tips to choose the right boot for the individual

1. Circulation problems require higher insulation.
Also, if you have circulation problems, consider a higher insulation rating for increased safety.
2. Boots should not fit too tight.
To provide proper insulation, some air space is needed beteen the foot and the lining of the boot. When sizing boots, try them on at the end of the day when your foot is a bit larger from swelling.

Tips to care for your leather boots

1. Prevent Outsole “Kick-off.”
Remove boots by unlacing them and pulling them off with your hands. “Kick-off” can cause the outsole to prematurely separate from the boot.
2. Keep your feet dry.
Be sure to wear socks that wick moisture away from your feet.
3. Dry your boots at the end of the day.
Wad up newspaper and place it inside the boot to absorb moisture. Fully open your boots and untie laces when drying.
4. Never put boots near direct heat.
Let boots dry at room temperature.
5. Wipe away dust.
Dust can settle into the creases of your boots, causing cracking.
6. Make your laces last longer.
Pull laces sideways when tightening, do not lace straight up.
7. Keep your boots clean.
A pencil eraser will remove scuff marks. When necessary, use a stiff brush, sponge, and saddle soap or a little water to clean your boots.

Back to Boot Expert page