How to choose safety shoes that suit your needs
How to choose safety shoes that suit your needs
Safety shoes are an essential part of workwear for anyone working in construction, industry, and trades. They protect against heavy objects, sharp materials, and slippery surfaces – but comfort and fit are just as important as the level of protection. However, given the wide range available on the market, finding the right model for your needs can be a challenge.
This article provides an overview of what to look for when choosing safety shoes, the types available, and which brands are worth knowing.
The article presents a wide selection of safety shoes representing different types, materials, and price ranges. The aim is to provide an overview of the most important features and differences so that you can more easily assess which type of shoe best suits your work. The information about the products is based on publicly available descriptions from manufacturers and retailers and has been summarised to provide an informative and easy-to-understand overview.
Factors to consider when buying a safety shoe
When choosing safety shoes, it’s not just about protection – comfort, weight, and functionality also play a major role. Here are some of the most important factors to consider.
1. Protection class
Safety shoes are divided into classes (e.g. S1, S2, S3) that indicate the level of protection. S1 covers basic protection such as a toe cap and antistatic sole, while S3 additionally offers water-repellent properties and penetration resistance. Choose the class according to the requirements of your work environment.
2. Material and weight
The material has a major impact on comfort and durability. Leather is hard-wearing and water-repellent, while textile and microfibre offer lighter and more breathable shoes. Lightweight materials such as composite instead of steel can reduce fatigue during long working days.
3. Fit and comfort
A good fit prevents foot pain and injuries. It’s best to try on the shoes at the end of the day when your feet are at their largest, and make sure there is enough room to move without your foot slipping. Insoles with shock absorption can significantly increase comfort.
4. Slip resistance
The tread and material of the sole are crucial for grip. If you work on smooth or wet surfaces, you should choose shoes with SRC-certified slip resistance, which have been tested on both steel and ceramic floors.
5. Breathability and climate
If you work in warm environments, breathable materials and ventilation zones are important to avoid moisture and discomfort. In cold environments, linings and insulated models can be beneficial.
6. Design and features
Many modern safety shoes combine sporty design with functional details such as BOA fastenings, reflective elements, and additional reinforcements. Consider which features make sense for your daily work.
Products in focus
The COFRA Burst S3 SRC is a safety shoe designed to protect the feet in work environments where high demands are placed on 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 a penetration-resistant sole, as well as a slip-resistant outsole.
The SRC-certified sole provides additional grip on wet and smooth surfaces, reducing the risk of accidents. The combination of a shock-absorbing midsole and ergonomic insole ensures a comfortable fit, even during prolonged use.
The shoe is suitable for use in industry, construction, and crafts, where solid protection against impacts, pressure, and the penetration of sharp objects is required. The black colour and simple design make it suitable for many work situations.
- S3 safety classification: Water-repellent upper material, penetration protection, and toe cap for maximum protection.
- SRC slip resistance: Outsole tested to ensure secure grip on smooth and wet surfaces.
- Comfortable fit: Shock-absorbing midsole and ergonomic insole for long-lasting comfort.
- 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 be heavier than lighter safety shoes in lower safety classes
- Less breathable on warm days due to dense 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 be heavier than lighter safety shoes in lower safety classes
- Less breathable on warm days due to dense 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 be heavier than lighter safety shoes in lower safety classes
- Less breathable on warm days due to dense construction
Specifications
- Brand: COFRA
- Model: Burst
- Colour: Black
- Size: 39
- Safety class: S3
- Slip resistance: SRC
- Toe cap: Yes
- Penetration protection: Yes
- Water-repellent: Yes
- Application area: Industry, construction, and crafts
The Milwaukee FXT S3S B1L110133 is a safety shoe designed 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 foot strain and provides comfortable walking throughout the workday. It also features ROLLCAGE™ stabilisation in the heel, which increases stability on uneven surfaces.
The BOA® Fit System ensures precise and quick adjustment, allowing the shoe to be easily tightened and loosened – even with gloves. 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, meaning it provides high protection against impacts, slipping, and electrical discharge.
- Comfortable cushioning: ENERGY FOAM reduces strain and increases comfort.
- Easy adjustment: The BOA® Fit System allows for quick and precise adjustment.
- Stable heel construction: ROLLCAGE™ technology improves stability on uneven surfaces.
- Water-repellent upper: Leather protects against water and dirt.
- Safety certification: Complies with 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 material
- 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 material
- 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 material
- 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 material: 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 made of black leather is designed to provide both protection and comfort in daily use. The wide, foot-shaped fit and padded instep ensure a comfortable wearing experience, even during extended use.
The clog is equipped with a Pronose and a Texon insole that 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 is washable at 30 °C, which makes maintenance easier.
The product is certified according to EN ISO 20345:2011 S2+SRC, confirming that it meets the applicable safety standards for protective toe cap shoes.
- 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 fit and EuroDan shock absorber for better support.
- Care: 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
- Washable at 30 °C
- Leather requires regular care to maintain flexibility and appearance
- The open design of the clog 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
- Washable at 30 °C
Cons
- Leather requires regular care to maintain flexibility and appearance
- The open design of the clog 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
- Washable at 30 °C
Cons
- Leather requires regular care to maintain flexibility and appearance
- The open design of the clog provides less ankle protection than closed safety shoes
Specifications
- Brand: EuroDan
- Model: Flex safety clog 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 designed for craftsmen who need both freedom of movement and protection. It is constructed with a textile upper that provides ventilation and breathability throughout the working day.
The shoe is equipped with the BOA® Fit System, a precise and user-friendly lacing system that allows quick adjustment of the fit – even with 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® buckle) 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 proven protection against electrostatic discharge, puncture and slipping.
- BOA® Fit System: Quick and precise fit adjustment.
- ENERGY FOAM midsole: Provides shock absorption and comfort during prolonged use.
- ROLLCAGE™ heel support: Increases stability on uneven surfaces.
- Ventilated textile upper: Ensures breathability and all-day comfort.
- 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 non-slip sole
- The BOA® system requires adjustment for users who prefer traditional laces
- Mainly suitable for dry working conditions as the upper is made of textile
Pros and cons
Pros
- Lightweight and flexible construction
- Quick closure with BOA® system
- Good ventilation and breathability
- Shock-absorbing midsole
- Stable heel and non-slip sole
Cons
- The BOA® system requires adjustment for users who prefer traditional laces
- Mainly suitable for dry working conditions as the upper is made of textile
Pros
- Lightweight and flexible construction
- Quick closure with BOA® system
- Good ventilation and breathability
- Shock-absorbing midsole
- Stable heel and non-slip sole
Cons
- The BOA® system requires adjustment for users who prefer traditional laces
- Mainly suitable for dry working conditions as the upper is made of textile
Specifications
- Brand: Milwaukee
- Model: FLEXTRED™ S1PS B1L110133
- Size: 36
- Colour: Black
- Certification: EN ISO 20345:2022 S1PS ESD FO SR
- Upper material: Textile
- Lacing system: BOA® Fit System
- Midsole: ENERGY FOAM
- Heel construction: ROLLCAGE™
- Construction: Metal-free (except BOA® buckle)
- Item number (SKU): 4932498080-92
Product descriptions
The COFRA Burst S3 SRC is a safety shoe designed to protect the feet in work environments where high demands are placed on 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 a penetration-resistant sole, as well as a slip-resistant outsole.
The SRC-certified sole provides additional grip on wet and smooth surfaces, reducing the risk of accidents. The combination of a shock-absorbing midsole and ergonomic insole ensures a comfortable fit, even during prolonged use.
The shoe is suitable for use in industry, construction, and crafts, where solid protection against impacts, pressure, and the penetration of sharp objects is required. The black colour and simple design make it suitable for many work situations.
- S3 safety classification: Water-repellent upper material, penetration protection, and toe cap for maximum protection.
- SRC slip resistance: Outsole tested to ensure secure grip on smooth and wet surfaces.
- Comfortable fit: Shock-absorbing midsole and ergonomic insole for long-lasting comfort.
- 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 be heavier than lighter safety shoes in lower safety classes
- Less breathable on warm days due to dense 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 be heavier than lighter safety shoes in lower safety classes
- Less breathable on warm days due to dense 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 be heavier than lighter safety shoes in lower safety classes
- Less breathable on warm days due to dense construction
Specifications
- Brand: COFRA
- Model: Burst
- Colour: Black
- Size: 39
- Safety class: S3
- Slip resistance: SRC
- Toe cap: Yes
- Penetration protection: Yes
- Water-repellent: Yes
- Application area: Industry, construction, and crafts
The Milwaukee FXT S3S B1L110133 is a safety shoe designed 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 foot strain and provides comfortable walking throughout the workday. It also features ROLLCAGE™ stabilisation in the heel, which increases stability on uneven surfaces.
The BOA® Fit System ensures precise and quick adjustment, allowing the shoe to be easily tightened and loosened – even with gloves. 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, meaning it provides high protection against impacts, slipping, and electrical discharge.
- Comfortable cushioning: ENERGY FOAM reduces strain and increases comfort.
- Easy adjustment: The BOA® Fit System allows for quick and precise adjustment.
- Stable heel construction: ROLLCAGE™ technology improves stability on uneven surfaces.
- Water-repellent upper: Leather protects against water and dirt.
- Safety certification: Complies with 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 material
- 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 material
- 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 material
- 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 material: 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 made of black leather is designed to provide both protection and comfort in daily use. The wide, foot-shaped fit and padded instep ensure a comfortable wearing experience, even during extended use.
The clog is equipped with a Pronose and a Texon insole that 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 is washable at 30 °C, which makes maintenance easier.
The product is certified according to EN ISO 20345:2011 S2+SRC, confirming that it meets the applicable safety standards for protective toe cap shoes.
- 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 fit and EuroDan shock absorber for better support.
- Care: 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
- Washable at 30 °C
- Leather requires regular care to maintain flexibility and appearance
- The open design of the clog 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
- Washable at 30 °C
Cons
- Leather requires regular care to maintain flexibility and appearance
- The open design of the clog 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
- Washable at 30 °C
Cons
- Leather requires regular care to maintain flexibility and appearance
- The open design of the clog provides less ankle protection than closed safety shoes
Specifications
- Brand: EuroDan
- Model: Flex safety clog 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 designed for craftsmen who need both freedom of movement and protection. It is constructed with a textile upper that provides ventilation and breathability throughout the working day.
The shoe is equipped with the BOA® Fit System, a precise and user-friendly lacing system that allows quick adjustment of the fit – even with 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® buckle) 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 proven protection against electrostatic discharge, puncture and slipping.
- BOA® Fit System: Quick and precise fit adjustment.
- ENERGY FOAM midsole: Provides shock absorption and comfort during prolonged use.
- ROLLCAGE™ heel support: Increases stability on uneven surfaces.
- Ventilated textile upper: Ensures breathability and all-day comfort.
- 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 non-slip sole
- The BOA® system requires adjustment for users who prefer traditional laces
- Mainly suitable for dry working conditions as the upper is made of textile
Pros and cons
Pros
- Lightweight and flexible construction
- Quick closure with BOA® system
- Good ventilation and breathability
- Shock-absorbing midsole
- Stable heel and non-slip sole
Cons
- The BOA® system requires adjustment for users who prefer traditional laces
- Mainly suitable for dry working conditions as the upper is made of textile
Pros
- Lightweight and flexible construction
- Quick closure with BOA® system
- Good ventilation and breathability
- Shock-absorbing midsole
- Stable heel and non-slip sole
Cons
- The BOA® system requires adjustment for users who prefer traditional laces
- Mainly suitable for dry working conditions as the upper is made of textile
Specifications
- Brand: Milwaukee
- Model: FLEXTRED™ S1PS B1L110133
- Size: 36
- Colour: Black
- Certification: EN ISO 20345:2022 S1PS ESD FO SR
- Upper material: Textile
- Lacing system: BOA® Fit System
- Midsole: ENERGY FOAM
- Heel construction: ROLLCAGE™
- Construction: Metal-free (except BOA® buckle)
- Item number (SKU): 4932498080-92
Different types of safety shoes
There are many types of safety shoes, each designed for different work situations and requirements.
1. Low shoes
Low shoes are lightweight and flexible, making them ideal for indoor work or environments where you move around a lot. They offer good freedom of movement and ventilation but do not protect the ankle from impacts.
2. Boots
Safety boots provide additional support around the ankle and protect against water, cold, and dirt. They are suitable for outdoor work and construction sites where conditions can be rough and uneven.
3. Sandals
Safety sandals combine protection with high breathability and are popular in warm environments. They usually have a toe cap and a slip-resistant sole but are not suitable for work in wet or dusty environments.
4. Lightweight models
Lightweight models with composite toe caps and flexible soles are designed for people who walk or stand a lot during the day. They reduce fatigue without compromising safety.
5. Waterproof models
For outdoor work or in damp environments, there are waterproof safety shoes with membranes such as Gore-Tex or similar materials. They keep feet dry while allowing moisture to escape.
Different brands of safety shoes
The market for safety shoes is broad, and several manufacturers specialise in combining safety, comfort, and design.
Puma Safety
Puma Safety combines sporty design with advanced safety features. The shoes are known for their low weight, good fit, and modern appearance, making them popular among tradespeople who want both style and function.
Jalas
Jalas focuses on ergonomics and comfort. The brand offers a wide range of models with high material and fit quality, and many of the shoes feature advanced shock-absorbing soles.
Sievi
Sievi is a Finnish manufacturer known for robustness and Nordic quality. The company offers both classic and modern models, often focusing on waterproofing and insulation for demanding environments.
Elten
Elten combines German quality with innovative solutions such as BOA fastenings and breathable materials. Their shoes are designed with a focus on ergonomics and safety for various work situations.
Cofra
Cofra offers a wide range of safety shoes in different price ranges. The brand is known for solid and functional shoes that cover both light and heavy work tasks.
Frequently asked questions
Which protection class should I choose?
That depends on your work. If you mainly work indoors, S1 or S1P are often sufficient. For outdoor work or where there is a risk of moisture and nails, S3 is recommended as it provides additional protection.
How can I tell if my safety shoes fit properly?
The shoes should fit snugly without pinching. There should be some space in front of the toes, and the heel should not slip. It’s best to try on the shoes with the socks you normally wear at work.
How long does a pair of safety shoes last?
The lifespan depends on use and environment but is usually 6–12 months with daily use. Replace the shoes when the sole is worn or the protection is damaged.
Are there lightweight safety shoes without metal?
Yes, many modern models use composite materials instead of steel. They are lighter, non-conductive, and temperature-insensitive, yet still provide high protection.
How do I care for my safety shoes?
Clean the shoes regularly with a damp cloth and let them dry at room temperature. Use waterproofing for leather or textile to extend their lifespan and maintain water resistance.
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