Choosing the best work safety shoes

Written by Michelle Champlin BSc Pod., M.Ch.S., S.R., Ch., (UK)
What to look for:
• Upper – made from natural, breathable materials such as leather or a man made breathable fabric. This helps to minimize moisture build up from sweat and in turn fungal skin and nail infection
• Shoe liner – the inside of the shoe should be breathable and seam free with cushioning from any steel toecap
• Toe box – plenty of wiggle room (1cm from end of longest toe). Especially important to have adequate room when shoes are steel toe capped to prevent bruising to nails
• Insole – removable to allow replacement with custom orthotics if advised by your Podiatrist to correct supination, over-pronation, plantar fasciitis and others
• Heel – the shoe should fit snugly without friction, rubbing or slipping to prevent blisters. Try heel grips if there is a little slippage.
• Heel – heel should be broad, stable and no more than 2cm high
• Sole – strong enough to resist puncture, yet flexible enough to allow your foot to pronate properly. Cushioned to minimize the risk of plantar fasciitis from walking / standing on hard surfaces. It should be slip resistant such as PVC or rubber.
• Fastening – the shoe should be firmly secured to your feet using laces, Velcro or buckles
• If your employer supplies your uniform shoes – speak to your Podiatrist about adding a discrete orthotic, internal padding or other measures to make them more comfortable and able to work with your feet to maintain great foot posture and fitness for work.
If you are suffering from work related foot pain or injury, contact the UAE’s foot and leg exports at the Dubai Podiatry Centre on +971 4 3435390. We combine the latest in NHS and private practice experience and skills with innovative foot products and treatments not available elsewhere in the region