In the construction industry and a handful of other professions, it's essential to wear protective shoes or safety toe work boots that help guard against painful and debilitating foot injuries. The U.S. Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) has identified three types of potential foot injuries that can be prevented or reduced by the wearing of protective safety shoes or work boots: foot injuries due to falling or rolling objects, injuries resulting from sharp objects piercing the sole, and safety risks from a worker's exposure to electrical hazards.
In addition to work boots that are equipped with steel toe protection or the lighter weight composite toe reinforcement, there are also safety shoes and boots that have what's called a "metatarsal guard". When you stop and think that there are 26 fragile bones in the foot, 19 of which comprise toe bones and adjoining metatarsal bones, the need for protective footwear is undeniable. Fractures of the metatarsal bones are not uncommon among industrial workers and people in the construction industry; and those injuries need to be medically treated to prevent permanent pain, arthritis, and other problems.
A number of manufacturers have recognized the need to provide additional metatarsal protection in some of their boot styles, including companies such as Georgia Boot and Carolina. One Georgia Boot style (#9310) features a metatarsal guard as well as a steel toe, puncture-resistant midsole, and waterproof leather.
In addition to advantages like metatarsal guards and puncture resistant soles, work boots and safety shoes can also offer other types of protection, including electrical hazard protection, shock absorption, static dissipation, and slip resistant materials and treading.
If you're looking for comfort as well as toe protection, Timberland Pro boots may be the solution. Timberland Pro work boots and hiking shoes are available in lightweight styles that not only offer steel toe protection but are lightweight and roomy. Wolverine is another brand that finds ways to include both comfort and protection features into their work boots and safety shoes. The company's DuraShocks line of work boots features compression pads in the heel and forefoot for added comfort.
The type of foot protection you need depends on the specific work you do and the potential hazards that your occupation presents. The good news is that you don't necessarily have to sacrifice comfort for protection when choosing work boots. In addition to cushioning and extra roominess, another tip for buying comfortable work boots is to select boots with a breathable lining that draws sweat away from your foot and helps perspiration evaporate.
When you shop online for safety footwear, you'll notice that there's a wide selection of styles and colors, as well as safety and comfort features. Whether you need work boots that are insulated, waterproof, slip-resistant, or electrical hazard-rated, you can usually find exactly what you're looking for at reputable, well-stocked Internet shoe stores.
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