A Guide to Women’s Work Boots

Unlike ordinary footwear, work boots provide essential support for the feet. They mitigate impacts, particularly at the heel, preventing injuries and reducing wear and tear on other parts of the body, especially on the hips, knees, and even the lower back. That’s why wearing work boots specifically designed for women working in the mining and construction industries is important.

 

Are There Differences between Women’s and Men’s Work Boots?

Not too long ago, women had no option when it came to footwear. They had to settle with men’s boots. Thankfully, times have changed. The “one size fits all” model is no longer a thing, and manufacturers now offer plenty of stylish choices for women who’s feet have a different structure from men’s feet.

What’s the difference, though? If you guess “size,” you’re somewhat correct because there are more anatomical disparities that boot manufacturers had to consider creating suitable work footwear for women. According to a New York University School of Medicine research, men’s feet are wider and longer than that of women. Meanwhile, the female feet often have a higher arch whilst the heel region is significantly smaller than a man’s foot.

The research authors emphasise that these geometric differences between women’s and men’s feet should always be taken into consideration when picking footwear. That way, the wearer ends up with a well-fitting, comfortable, and functional pair of work boots.

 

Types of Women’s Work Boots

Work boots for women come in various types and styles. You can pick a black, brown/neutral pair or have colourful footwear if that’s your preference. But more important than the size is the suitability of your boots to your work environment. You have three standard options available:

 

1. Safety Toe Work Boots

Safety toes can be made of composite, steel, and aluminium. Usually, steel toes are considered a separate category, although they are a type of safety toe work boots. Wearing safety toes is traditionally required in the construction industry. However, these boots are also commonplace in airports, transport, and logistics industries.

With safety toes, workers can be protected against falling objects, which can occur in busy and fast-moving workplaces. For example, if you work in an airport and lift or move heavy objects, there’s always a risk of dropping those items on your feet. Safety shoes with reinforced aluminium or composite toes can keep your feet safe from injuries.

Safety toe work boots also help prevent trips, slips, and falls, which can happen no matter where you work. If they fit well, these shoes can ensure that you maintain balance and stay comfortable even when you dash from one corner of the room to another. If your job entails a lot of walking or running, be sure that the work boots have traction and appropriate tread. These attributes are also beneficial for women working in the construction industry and workplaces with uneven surfaces.

 

2. Steel Toe Work Boots

All steel-toe work boots are safety boots. These work boots are also known as steel-capped and steel toecaps. Whichever name you prefer to call them, these boots are essential, primarily if you deal with the daily risk of falling objects and compression that could injure your feet.

Steel toes are designed with an internal toe box protected by heavy-duty steel or compound materials. That means you get maximum protection from compression, impact, and puncture. A good pair also helps eliminate the pressure from your toes if you stand all day long.

If you work at airports or where electricity is a considerable risk factor, you may want to choose composite toes. It’s true that steel is well-hidden and protected by rubber or leather that shields the wearer from electric shock. However, many organisations veer from steel toes if workers are exposed to static electricity and other related hazards. This blog talks about composite toes, which are excellent for female electricians.

 

3. Safety Slip-Resistant Work Boots

Not all safety shoes can protect you against slips. We recommend slip-resistant work boots to healthcare workers, kitchen and waitstaff, factory workers, and industrial workers. As the name suggests, the footwear helps prevent slips, thanks to the specialised sole that decreases surface slickness.

If slip resistance is crucial for you, make sure that you read the boots’ sole description. It can vary from improved grip performance to multidirectional slip resistance.

 

The Best Work Boots for Women

When selecting footwear for work, many factors should be considered:

 

Steel Toes

Do you need basic protection for your toes? Then, safety toe work boots are great for you. Your toes are incredibly vulnerable in the workplace and therefore require adequate protection. Hard Yakka is one of the top brands that offer steel cap toes that hardworking ladies prefer. Check out these Hard Yakka safety shoes in a unique bright pink colour known as shiraz (yes, just like the wine). They have a comfortable memory foam footbed for extra heel support whilst ensuring your toes get maximum protection with its wide profile steel toe caps.

The Oliver Safety Boots for ladies is a good option if you want a more subtle colour. The side zip makes it easy to wear and remove the boots. They also have a patented NATUREform steel toe cap that’s specially designed for the female feet.

 

Composite Toes

Sometimes, steel toes are not suitable for the workplace. If you work outdoors, we recommend composite toes since steel toes can quickly react to ambient temperatures, resulting in toe discomfort. If you require good to moderate protection, consider KingGee’s zip-side safety boots. Designed exclusively for hardworking ladies, these composite toe boots are lightweight (only 2kg) and have a flattering style and easy zip feature.

 

Industry

Blundstone work boots are an excellent option if you work at the airport. These airport-friendly work boots do not contain any metal, so you can be sure you’re safe from electrical hazards. In contrast, the Steel Blue Ladies Argyle Safety Work Boots are made of hardened steel but have antistatic protection. These boots come in three colours, namely black, wheat, and purple, so choose what fits your style.

For women dealing with oils and slip risks in their workplace, choose work boots that meet the AS 2210.3 and EN ISO 20345 standards. The black Steel Blue Parkes Zip Safety Boots are not only stylish but also offer premium protection from workplace hazards.

 

Comfort

Do you often complain about your feet hurting? Try slip-ons that you can slide in and out for all-day comfort. Steel Blue offers Hobart Safety Work Boots made from leather and developed especially for female feet. The outsole is durable and can resist high temperatures up to 130C.

 

Other Specifications

Your trade may have its requirements. For example, working in agriculture may require work boots made of rubber or polyurethane for full waterproofing capabilities. Anti-slips and anti-perforation soles can be beneficial for most industry trades. If you often navigate slippery floors or deal with sharp objects at work, it’s best to choose boots with a reliable grip, like the Steel Blue Ladies Southern Cross Zip.

Make sure that you care for your work boots properly to ensure maximum protection when wearing them. Never wear old and worn work boots. This blog helps you in determining when to replace and shop for a new pair.

 

Where to Buy Women’s Work Boots

Shop for women’s work boots here at The Workers Shop. We have everything you need, including toe protective qualities, midsole penetration protection, and antistatic properties. Find the work boots that match your preferences here.