Photo credit: KEEN Utility

Material innovations meet trends and demands of a new generation of workers

By Kevin Oberle

Material Innovations Keep Pace with Trends
    Safety footwear often conjures images of heavy and bulky work boots, but this is not reflective of the current market. With a younger workforce more familiar with sneakers and athletic wear, there has been an increased demand for non-traditional safety footwear. And, thanks to the advancement of materials and protective elements, many work shoes are now designed with an athletic aesthetic that can still meet the safety and performance demands and requirements on the warehouse floor.
    Warehouse, manufacturing and distribution jobs are often movement-intensive with long hours standing, and the comfort (and design) of a sneaker is often preferred. Thanks to better-performing, more durable textiles, work sneakers can provide more durability in high-abrasion areas as well as breathability for comfort while still delivering a more secure and supportive fit. Many of these materials are also non-marring, an essential component if the manufacturing environment requires PPE that won’t scratch or damage the materials produced on site. TPU webbings for further support and structure and waterproof linings also add structure and increased protection, two attributes traditional sneakers lack.

What to Consider before Selecting Safety Footwear
    With the advancement of materials and the availability of more youthful, sportier safety options, there are still a number of comfort or performance features to consider when selecting a safety style. There is no one-size-fits-all solution for work safety. Each environment has its own safety requirements which are traditionally communicated through safety management or leaders. Assuming the safety style being considered meets the OSHA, company or regulatory requirements on the job site, there are a number of other footwear features to consider when choosing the best boot or shoe for the job. Materials and product innovation have helped PPE come a long way and there have never been more options for workers than today. We often advise our customers to consider the following:
    Cushioning and Energy Return: Another benefit of materials innovation in footwear is the introduction of a new class of insole, midsole and outsole materials that provide better cushioning through support and energy return. More and more companies, mine included, are putting in the research time to develop compression-resistant foams that can often provide increased energy return with each step, helping to cushion the foot and reduce foot fatigue. Ours, for example, provides 60% more energy return than standard EVA foam to reduce foot fatigue. These midsole innovations help work footwear achieve that more athletic feel that many people associate with sneakers.
    Safety Toes: Job sites often require workers to wear footwear with a protective toe cap to help protect toes from impact and crush injuries. While steel and aluminum toes are well-known (and excellent options), there is also an array of lightweight and non-metallic alternatives. One option that has grown in popularity are carbon toes, which are 15% lighter than steel. Additionally, carbon toes are non-metallic which provides added convenience for workers who pass through metal detectors regularly. The design of the toe cap can also make a difference, and workers may want to seek out boots and shoes that feature a shape more in line with the natural couture of the foot. At my company, our safety toes are created to have a wider size assortment and are asymmetrical for a less obtrusive fit, enabling the toes and feet to flex more naturally while providing all-day comfort. If a boot fits well, the wearer should not feel the toe cap.
    Slip-Resistance: In workplaces where grease, water, or other liquids may be present, it is essential for safety footwear to have oil- and slip- resistant enhanced outsoles to reduce the risk of slips, trips, and falls. A shallow tread design can assist with maximizing surface contact with the ground and sipped channels along the tread can quickly drain liquids away to improve surface traction. To ensure personal safety, select safety footwear that is specifically labeled as slip resistant.
    Fit is Key: Well-fitting safety shoes are crucial for foot health and performance. In addition to helping prevent injuries, properly fitting footwear can ensure better comfort which can boost productivity. Because feet expand over the day, try on potential new safety footwear after a shift when feet are naturally at their largest. Also be sure to wear the socks you would wear at work. Even if you think you know your shoe size, it is beneficial to ask a store associate for a fit test. Shoes that are loose can lead to tripping, while shoes that are too tight can lead to issues related to foot-health such as in-grown toenails and blisters.
    Especially for women, safety footwear goes beyond finding the right size. Historically, women in professional trades have been underserved when it comes to access to well-fitting PPE including safety footwear. This has often meant having to choose between the smallest men’s sizes or poorly fitting alternatives. Today, many footwear manufacturers are striving for more inclusivity when it comes to offering safety footwear for all. My company, for instance, launched a program specifically for women in the trades where feedback from women workers with on-the-job experience helps shape the entire product development process from product conception to production and even how we market.

Safety Starts from the Ground-Up
    Whether workers are new or returning to growing industries like manufacturing and warehousing, prioritizing health and safety on the job is key. Luckily, to those new to safety footwear, innovations have helped our industry keep up with trends and buying habits. Personal protective gear is an important tool for workers and can lay a foundation for a healthier and happier work environment. No two feet or two jobs are the same, but selecting appropriate safety footwear will provide workers with the mobility, support, and protection to feel comfortable each step throughout the workday.