5 tips for keeping work boots in the best shape
How to keep work boots comfortable, clean and safe
When you’re on your feet most of the day, safety and comfort are the most important requirements. Work boots should be comfortable day in, day out, no matter the weather or working conditions.
Uncomfortable safety boots are more than just a nuisance. The wrong boots can cause injuries to your feet, ankles, knees, hips and cause back problems. There’s also the risk of slips and falls from ill-fitting boots.
From finding the right fit to routine boot care, here are our tried-and-true tips to keep you safe, protected and productive in the most comfortable work boots.
1. Initial fitting
Comfortable safety boots should be:
- Snug but not too tight
- Sized to allow for socks but not slipping (see our Lacing Guide)
- Firm but not too rigid
- Shock absorbing but not spongy
- Fit for purpose
Visit a Steel Blue stockist to find your perfect fit. Make sure the safety boots flex at the ball of your foot while offering cushioning and support from heel to toe.
All Steel Blue boots include an Ortho Rebound® Footbed that has been designed to mould to the foot. This insole supports your arch and reduces foot fatigue. With a different design custom made for men and women, the Ortho Rebound® provides long-lasting comfort as it won’t flatten or compress with prolonged wear.
High-quality fastenings
Work boot fastenings play a crucial role in comfort and provide safety. They keep your foot in the right place, preventing slipping and offering better ankle support.
Inferior fastenings can come loose with daily pressure and tension. Whether you prefer Lace Up, Zip Sided work boots or Pull On quality matters.
2. Rotate your boots
Invest in a second (or third) pair of work boots. You might opt for a pair with a different fastening style or enhanced safety features for more demanding jobs or a non-safety work boot when you don’t require a safety toe cap.
You might just buy a second pair of your favourite work boots in another colour. Whatever makes you comfortable!
3. Drying work boots
Thoroughly drying work boots prevents fungus and bacteria from building up and prevents the leather from deteriorating.
Leave wet boots to air-dry, avoiding excessive heat (this is where a backup pair comes in handy). See our FAQs for further details on the best way to dry your safety boots.
If you regularly work in wet environments, check out our lightweight water resistant work boots.
4. Cleaning and care
Mud, dirt, clay and sand should be cleaned off at the end of every day. Leaving dirt and gunk on your work boots will dry out the leather and reduce the life of the premium natural material.
Salt and corrosive chemicals are especially bad for leather boots. Use a clean, slightly damp cloth to clean off dirt and grime, taking care to follow strict safety guidelines when cleaning off any potentially harmful chemicals.
We suggest polishing and applying protective dubbin to your boots when they need it. That might be every few months or once a year, depending on your use.
5. Watch for wear and tear
Check your work boots regularly for signs of wear:
- Fraying laces
- Wrinkles in the leather
- Worn-down outsole tread
- Reduced shock absorption
And the big one: new pain or discomfort. If your comfortable work boots suddenly become uncomfortable, it might be time to update your pair.
The most comfortable work boots for any trade
We take comfort seriously and offer a 100% Comfort Guarantee across our range of work boots. If your new work boots don’t live up to expectations, return them within 30 days for a full refund. We recommend that you are correctly fitted instore to find the most suitable style for your trade and environment. Visit one of over 250 Steel Blue stockists here.
Steel Blue ladies’ work boots are also unique in that they use a true female last for a tailored fit.
Discover work boots built for comfort and made for work at your local Steel Blue stockist or online.
