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Wondering what types of boots provide the best protection for the feet? In reality there are many different types of boots which can protect your feet from a number of various hazards and conditions. Choosing the ones which will protect you best depends on the type and level of protection you are looking for.
So, first of all define what you want to keep your feet safe from, and as you narrow down your choices, picking the best pair will become much simpler and easier.
Here are some of the most common types of protection for the feet and for your health which can be currently found on the market.
If you are looking for the most reliable and suitable work boots to keep your feet protected, make sure that you ask your employers, HR or safety personnel about the safety procedures and requirements for the types of work boots and the level of safety they provide which are obligatory for your job position. If there are specific company regulations for the types of work boots you should wear, then make sure you get a pair which complies to them fully. It is most likely that your management has spent sufficient resources to perform proper risk assessments and to develop the best safety program and procedures for your job, so make sure you comply with them, because it is certain that safety and risk assessment experts are much better at finding or forecasting more potential risks and hazards in any workplace than you can.
Wearing comfortable and safe work boots, as well as any other required PPE (personal protection equipment) will allow you to perform your job much more safely and much better. You will avoid feeling constantly worried and looking around for possible hazards. Instead, you will know that you are protected properly so that you can do your job without fear and distractions.
Always look for good quality work boots, made by reputable manufacturers which have been tested and certified for compliance with the national and local safety standards and regulations.
Remember that the better the quality of the materials and construction of your work boots – the longer you will be able to wear them! So, think about buying a new pair of safety boots as a long-term investment.
Also, ensure that you get the proper size and fit to match the length and width of your feet and your arch type. You will be spending long hours wearing these boots, so take the time to try out different styles and sizes until you find the ones which fit best.
You may want to consider getting breathable boots or ones with moisture wicking insoles, in order to reduce the dampness from foot perspiration and the bacteria and odor which usually result from it.
As for other non-work related boots which will protect your feet, once you have defined the type or types of protection you are looking for, narrow down your choice to a few brands or styles and try each one on to find the ones which fit you best and which provide you with the most reliable protection.
For keeping the feet dry, especially in very muddy, messy and wet conditions, you should probably opt for wellington boots. They are inexpensive, comfortable, easy to clean and maintain and will keep your feet perfectly dry and clean even in the muddiest of days.
Another type of boots which provide excellent protection of the entire foot up to the calf or knee are riding boots.
People who serve in the military or the police force know that the best types of boots to wear are tactical (combat) boots. Not only do they protect the feet, but also allow for quick and safe walking, running and moving in slippery and other potentially hazardous conditions.
For protection of the feet from harsh weather conditions, there is a wide variety of different types of winter boots, and boots suitable for hot weather too. Choose boots which will help keep your feet dry and comfortable at all times.
Hikers and people who enjoy outdoor adventures should get suitable and reliable hiking or other similar boots which will keep the feet cushioned and will absorb the shock and minimize the impact from walking on uphill or downhill uneven surface. Good hiking shoes will also provide reliable traction and should be breathable, comfortable and provide stability and protection from ankle rolling and other potential injuries when outdoors in the wilderness.
Whatever type of boots you pick, the most important factor always is – getting the best fit and the most comfortable boots!
Boots which fit properly are much safer that smaller ones or ones which are too big. Makes sure you wear a pair of socks just like the ones you will be wearing your boots when you first try them on.
Go to the store after work or after a long walk, so that your feet and ankles are as swollen and are as big as they can get.
Measure the length and the width of both feet, and be aware that your feet can differ in size and shape, and that the size and shapes of your feet can change over time. It is usually recommended to get half or a whole size bigger boots, but always look for the sizing instructions provided by the shoe manufacturers or by the shoe store staff.
When you try your boots on, try on both boots and lace them up completely. Stand up and do some walking around. Make sure that they are not too short or too tight in the toes area. You should have about half an inch of distance from the toes to the front of the boot. Your heel should feel snug but not too tight. If your heel slips out while you are walking, you should try on a smaller sized pair!
Always take your time and do your research before going on and buying a new pair of boots, especially if you will be relying on them to keep your feet and you safe, and if you will be spending hours wearing them for years ahead!
