What is the difference between a steel toe boot and a composite toe boot?

Are you a safety decision maker at your organization? Does your employer require safety toe footwear at your job? If the answer is yes, then you may be faced with the decision to choose between a steel toe shoe and a composite toe shoe. How can you know which one is best for you and your occupation?

Steel-toe boots have been the standard in safety footwear for the last 80 years. Composite-toe boots became available relatively recently. Both options pass the ASTM (American Society for Testing and Materials) tests for impact and compression. If an accident were to occur and a heavy object is dropped onto your composite toe shoe, it is recommended that you replace it. Even if the damage is not immediately visible, it is likely it will not offer the same protection as a steel toe option if a secondary accident should occur.

Because composite toes are made of non-metal materials, such as carbon fiber, Kevlar, fiberglass or plastics, they allow for a lighter-weight option compared to Steel-toe. They also do not conduct heat or cold, which makes them more comfortable for working outdoors. If your workplace requires passing through a metal detector, Composite-toes will not set it off, unless your boot is manufactured with a steel shank.

If you have recently been hired it is always a best practice to speak with your supervisor or our Duradero safety team prior to purchasing your safety footwear. They will be able to recommend the best option for your specific position and working conditions. Our Duradero team is available at info@duradero.com. We look forward to hearing from you.