Fresh feet in safety shoes: 5 tips for hot days at work
Hot days at work? Discover 5 practical tips to keep your feet cool, dry and comfortable in safety footwear
Fresh feet in safety footwear:
5 tips for hot days at work
Lots of walking, long days and rising temperatures. You’ll soon realise just how important it is to keep your feet fresh and comfortable. Fortunately, there’s a lot you can do about it yourself. By making the right choices, you can keep your feet fresh and dry for longer, even on hot working days. Think breathable safety shoes, good work socks and regular maintenance. We’ve put together five practical tips for you.
1. Choose safety footwear that breathes well
If heat and moisture cannot escape properly, safety shoes can quickly feel hot. That’s why it’s worth choosing models that offer good ventilation. The materials used make a big difference here. A breathable upper and a moisture-wicking lining help to keep your feet dry for longer. The style of the shoe also makes a difference. If the risks of your job allow it, a low-cut safety shoe often feels more breathable than a high-top model. Your ankles have greater freedom of movement and heat can escape more easily.
It’s no surprise that more and more people are opting for sporty safety shoes that offer the comfort and look of a trainer. These styles are often lightweight, offer plenty of freedom of movement and are comfortable to wear during long working days. Naturally, this is without compromising on safety, provided they meet the relevant standards for your working environment.
2. Don’t underestimate the importance of good work socks
Fresh feet aren’t just about your safety shoes. The right socks make all the difference too. Cotton socks absorb moisture, but they also become saturated more quickly. Work socks specially designed for active use actually wick moisture away. This keeps your feet dry for longer and makes them feel more comfortable throughout the day.
Good work socks also help to reduce friction. You’ll really notice the difference, especially if you do a lot of walking or standing. For example, the Hydro-Dry® Sneaker Sock from EMMA has been designed to wick away moisture quickly and keep feet feeling fresh for longer. Thanks to Coolmax® fibres and breathable materials, they remain comfortable to wear even on hot working days.
3. A good fit lasts all day long
A safety shoe should not be too tight, but nor should it be too loose. Shoes that are too tight quickly feel hot. Shoes that are too loose, on the other hand, can cause extra friction whilst walking. In both cases, this comes at the expense of comfort.
A well-fitting shoe provides better support for your feet and prevents unnecessary pressure points. That is why it is important to consider not only the length of a shoe, but also its width and shape. A well-fitting insole can provide extra support. On hot days in particular, you’ll notice how comfortable it is when a safety shoe fits your foot properly.
4. Allow your safety shoes to air properly
After a long day’s work, safety shoes need time to dry out and air. So make it a habit to leave your shoes open in a well-ventilated place after use.
Also, regularly remove the insoles from your shoes. This allows any residual moisture to evaporate more easily, and your shoes will feel fresher again the next working day. A small effort that makes a big difference.
5. Proper care keeps shoes fresh for longer
Safety shoes have to endure a lot every day. Dust, dirt and moisture gradually build up in the material. Regular maintenance helps to keep your shoes clean and fresh. Remove dirt promptly and use care products suitable for the material of your shoes. This ensures materials remain in good condition for longer and that safety shoes retain their comfort and supportive properties. What’s more, you’ll extend the lifespan of your safety shoes.