Many men and women work in physically demanding occupations and understand that sore muscles and other discomforts are all part of the job. And while there may not be much that they can do to eliminate the physical stresses, there is no need to add sore feet to them.

That’s why it’s essential to find a pair of work boots that will hold up under the demands of an active workday while protecting their feet and keeping them comfortable. That sounds like a tall order, but doing your research and following certain criteria makes it possible to find work boots meant for you.

Ask Yourself a Few Important Questions

• Does your type of work require steel-toe work boots?
• If you work around liquid spills, should your boots be slip-proof?
• Do the boots have to meet Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) standards?
• Do they also need to keep your feet warm during cold weather?
• Should they be a certain color to meet your company’s dress code?
• Are you required to climb ladders on the job?

The Proper Fit Should be a Top Priority

Boots that are too short or narrow will end up causing you misery from pinched feet, while those that are large and loose will cause rubbing and painful blisters. Here are a few suggestions for getting the right fit:

• To get the most accurate fit, wear your work socks while trying on a variety of boots.
• Do your boot shopping later in the day when your feet are slightly swollen.
• Test for the proper length by sliding your foot forward until it touches the front of the boot. Then, bend your knee forward, and make sure you have the width of your index finger between the heel of your foot and the back of the boot.
• Your boots should bend at the ball of your foot, not at your arch.
• Your new boots should provide a firm foundation for your foot’s arch.
• Lace-up your boots in the store to ensure that they are fitting properly and feel comfortable.

Consider the Weight of the Boot

While works boots are typically heavier than other types of footwear, if they are excessively heavy, they could be a drain on your energy. It might pay to choose a lighter weight boot that still gives you the protection and support you need.

Your Work Might Require You to Wear Steel-Toed Boots

If there is a danger of heavy objects falling on your feet, you’ll need to choose a pair with steel tips to protect your feet from being crushed. These boots will be heavy because of the steel toes, and the only other option might be to buy a boot with the toe area made of a lighter-weight composite material.

Leather Material is Usually Your Best Option

Full-grain leather has all the features you would want in a work boot: it’s pliable, lightweight, strong, and durable. It’s not surprising that most high-quality boots are made from it.

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