Safety shoes – inspiration for finding the right type
Safety shoes – inspiration for finding the right type
Safety shoes are an indispensable part of workwear for craftsmen, construction workers and others who work in environments with a risk of impact, falling objects or slippery surfaces. Modern models combine high safety with comfort, breathability and a design that makes them comfortable to wear all day.
In this article, you’ll get an overview of what to consider when choosing safety shoes, the types available, and which brands are worth knowing, so you can more easily find the model that best suits your work.
The article presents a wide range of safety shoes that cover different needs, work environments and price ranges. The aim is to provide an overview of features, materials and safety levels so you can assess which type of shoe best suits your working day. The product information is based on publicly available descriptions from manufacturers and retailers and is summarised to provide a clear and informative overview.
Factors to consider when buying a safety shoe
When choosing safety shoes, it’s not just about meeting safety requirements – comfort, fit and function also play a major role. Here are some of the most important factors to consider.
1. Safety class and protection
Safety shoes are divided into classes (e.g. S1, S2, S3), which indicate the level of protection. S1 protects against impact and has antistatic properties, while S3 also protects against water penetration and has slip-resistant soles. Choose the class according to your work environment – for example, construction sites often require S3.
2. Toe cap and puncture protection
The toe cap protects against falling objects and can be made of steel, aluminium or composite. Composite is lighter and doesn’t conduct cold, which increases comfort. Puncture protection in the sole protects against sharp objects on the ground – important when working on construction sites or in workshops.
3. Comfort and fit
A good fit reduces the risk of fatigue and injury. Look for shoes with shock-absorbing soles, good arch support and breathable materials. If you walk and stand a lot, a lightweight model with a flexible sole can be an advantage.
4. Weight and materials
Lightweight materials such as microfibre and mesh make the shoes more comfortable to wear for longer periods. At the same time, the material must be durable and resistant to oil, water and chemicals, depending on the work environment.
5. Slip resistance
Slip-resistant soles are crucial to avoid accidents. Look for shoes with SRC certification, which means they have been tested on both smooth and greasy surfaces.
6. Design and functionality
Modern safety shoes come in many designs – from classic work boots to sporty sneakers. Consider whether you need extra features such as a BOA lacing system, waterproof membrane or reflective details for increased visibility.
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
There are many types of safety shoes, each designed for different working conditions and needs.
1. Low-cut work shoes
These shoes resemble regular sneakers and are ideal for indoor work or tasks where mobility and lightness are prioritised. They provide good ventilation and comfort but less support around the ankle.
2. Safety boots
High-cut safety boots provide extra support and protection against water, cold and impact. They are suitable for outdoor work, construction sites and winter use, where robustness is more important than low weight.
3. Safety sandals
Safety sandals combine protection with ventilation and are popular in warm work environments. They typically have a toe cap and slip-resistant sole but are not suitable for wet or cold conditions.
4. Waterproof models
For work in damp environments, there are waterproof safety shoes with a membrane that keeps water out but still allows the foot to breathe. They are ideal for outdoor use in rain or on wet surfaces.
5. ESD and antistatic shoes
In environments with electronics or explosive materials, ESD shoes are necessary to dissipate static electricity. They protect both the user and sensitive equipment from electrical discharges.
Different brands of safety shoes
The market for safety shoes is broad, and several manufacturers specialise in combining safety with comfort and modern design.
Puma Safety
Puma Safety combines sporty design with technical safety features. The shoes are known for their low weight, good shock absorption and flexibility, making them popular among craftsmen who want comfort all day long.
Sika Footwear
Sika produces its own models and distributes well-known brands such as Brynje and Elten. The focus is on ergonomics, durability and functional details that suit different industries.
Jalas
Jalas is known for high quality and advanced foot protection. Their shoes often have extra shock absorption and an anatomical fit, making them suitable for long working days.
Bata Industrials
Bata Industrials offers a wide range of safety shoes that combine robustness with modern design. They focus on ergonomics and durability and offer models for both light and heavy industry.
Cofra
Cofra is an Italian brand focused on innovation and safety. They offer many different models, from lightweight sandals to heavy boots, all with certified protection and good comfort.
Frequently asked questions
Which safety class should I choose?
It depends on your work environment. If you work on a construction site, S3 is recommended, as it protects against nails, water and impact. For lighter indoor work, S1 or S1P may be sufficient.
How do I know if the shoes fit properly?
The shoes should fit snugly without pinching. There should be a little space in front of the toes, and the heel should not slip. Try the shoes at the end of the day when your feet are typically slightly swollen.
How long do 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 out or the protection (e.g. the toe cap) is damaged.
Can I get safety shoes that are also comfortable?
Yes, many modern models are designed with a focus on ergonomics, shock absorption and breathability. Lightweight materials and flexible soles make them comfortable even during long working days.
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 if necessary to extend their lifespan.
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