Foot protection

Frequently asked questions

• What is the difference between S1, S1P, S2 and S3?

  All include toe protection. S1 adds antistatic properties and an energy-absorbing heel, S1P adds a penetration-resistant midsole, S2 increases water resistance, and S3 combines penetration resistance, water resistance and a cleated sole. S3 is the common choice across construction sites.

• Composite or steel toe?

  Protection level is the same under the standard. Composite is lighter, does not conduct heat and passes metal detectors; steel is usually more economical. Composite stands out in airports, food production and electrical work.

• What is the difference between S1, S1P, S2 and S3?

  The letters describe the protection package. S1 covers antistatic properties and an energy-absorbing heel; S1P adds a penetration-resistant midsole; S2 adds water penetration resistance; S3 combines all of these with a cleated outsole. Wet sites with sharp debris call for S3.

• Steel toecap or composite?

  Both meet the same impact requirement. Composite is lighter and does not conduct cold, which helps in winter and in metal-detection areas; steel is thinner, so the shoe is more compact.

• When should safety footwear be replaced?

  There is no fixed period; condition decides. A smoothed tread, a cracked upper, a compressed midsole or a deformed toecap all end its service life however new it looks.

• Why must sizes be trialled on site?

  Feet swell by the end of a shift, so footwear fitted in the morning tightens by afternoon. Trialling a sample set for a week before the bulk order puts the size curve on real measurements.