To make the most informed choice when investing in hardworking, protective footwear you need to know what to consider when buying security boots. Security is a fast-paced, high-intensity sector with many hazards and potential threats. When it’s your job to be alert and ready at all times, you need safe, durable, reliable security boots that you can count on in any situation.
Choosing the correct security footwear is essential. The quality of the materials used, individual safety features, comfort, and durability are important factors to consider. Kaliber’s security boots have been specially designed from durable, quality materials to withstand the demands of the private security sector.
Top 5 things to consider when buying security boots.
Security boots are durable and usually have a form of protective reinforcement built into the toe area (the toe cap). They are specifically designed to provide maximum possible foot protection, in varying ‘heavy duty’ work environments.
The boot you need depends entirely on your industry and the work that you do.
When it comes to buying the right security boots, five basic requirements must be taken into account:
- Good fit
- Construction material
- Sole
- Safety features
- Comfort
The fit must be good
If your security boots do not fit properly, it will negatively affect your comfort and flexibility while carrying out your daily (or nightly) duties. This will affect your work and may cause painful blisters, skin abrasions and overly ‘tired’ feet.
When trying on a new pair of work boots it is important to ensure the correct fit. Ideally they should not be too tight or too loose and they should flex at the balls of your feet. Wear the same socks you will wear on the job while trying them on.
Just as you do when buying ordinary footwear, walk a few steps to test how comfortable the boots feel. It should also be remembered that your feet tend to swell during your workday so also take that into account when trying them on.
TOP TIP: Different brands of security boots have slight differences in sizing. Don’t assume that all brand sizes are the same – check the sizing guidelines.
Quality materials must be used
Work security boots are made from various types of materials, such as leather, rubber, ethylene-vinyl acetate (EVA), and thermoplastic polyurethane (TPU. The material that your boots are constructed from will affect their durability, comfort and flexibility. Each of these materials has its own advantages and disadvantages.
Leather is the most common and popular material for security boots. Leather gives the wearer a high level of flexibility, and protection and is an inherently durable material.
Rubber is ideal for jobs that carry the risk of electric shock, for example. Plastic boots are much cheaper than the aforementioned boots but, buyers beware, these may not be able to offer enough protection in harsh environments.
The sole of the matter
While fiercely competing in the security footwear market all manufacturers are at one when they recommend slip-resistant soles, usually made of rubber. Slip-resistant soles are beneficial for all applications, so it is always recommended that you go for security boots with slip resistance. You may also need to look for soles that are acid and fireproof or oil resistant.
The outsole affects the traction of the shoe, while the insole is the cushioning of the boot. The midsole is responsible for the quality and durability of the footwear. It provides both the support your feet need and is also the part that absorbs shock or impact.
Do they meet the required standards?
Certain industries require that work wear, which includes security boots, must meet the certain minimum and laid down safety features often in very specific working conditions. So check that the boots you are trying on meet those standards. Most work sites require safety boots with adequate toe protection, such as steel capped toes. Reinforced toe caps are great in protecting your feet from trauma caused by compression by heavy or falling objects or piercing by sharp objects.
Composite toe caps which are made from carbon fibre, plastic or Kevlar can also be viable options available to you.
Security boots must be comfortable
Comfort is paramount in security shoes, style comes second. At Kaliber, we believe that you needn’t have to choose between one and the other. Our range has something for everyone. Check the specs of the security boot you’re interested in.
In the high-intensity and high-risk private security sector, it is important to have security footwear that can be unquestionably depended on. Kaliber delivers on that reliability. The materials we use are high-quality, durable, breathable and comfortable enough to be worn for hours at a time.
Our standard reinforced steel toe caps and anti-penetration midsoles ensure the highest levels of safety and protection at all times. No matter the situation, we have you covered.
Choose a boot that works just as hard to keep you safe. View our full range on Kaliber’s Catalogue