Safety trainers offer a higher degree of flexibility than traditional safety shoes whilst being lightweight, breathable and comfortable. In recent times, if you wanted to wear a safety trainer then your options were not only limited, but the trainers were bulky and uncomfortable to wear all day long. You will be pleased to hear that those days are now gone as there have been many advances in both the materials used and designs of this style of workwear.
Common features
Typical safety shoes are re-inforced with steel toe caps, the safety trainers are available in either steel, composite or aluminium toe caps. Aluminium and composite toe caps are typically lighter in weight than steel toe caps.
Other safety trainer features to consider:
- Fitment - Poorly fitted safety shoes can result in bunions, corns and other foot issues. Furthermore, if the footwear fails to fit correctly, it may fail to provide the protection against an injury.
- Upper - Ideally made from natural resources to allow the foot to breathe. Some safety trainers come with a coating to repel water.
- Insole - removable so the end user can customise.
- Midsole - some trainers can come with a steel or composite midsole to prevent penetration.
- Sole - Strong and durable. Typically made out of materials such as rubber, polyurethane or PVCM for anti-slip properties.
- Heel - Ideally no higher than 4cm. If the trainers are worn for longer than 4 hours this should be no higher then 2cm.
- Heel fit - Should fit snugly to stop the shoe slipping off when worn.
- Toe fitting - Toes should be able to wiggle freely. If the safety trainer also comes with either a composite aluminium or steel toe cap, toes shouldn't be able to touch the toe cap.
- Weight - A lightweight trainer will provide better comfort throughout the day.
How is safety footwear graded?
Standard European Ratings are SB (Basic level), S1, S2. S3. S4, S5. For more information please view our Footwear Protection Guide.
