subject: Insulated Steel Toe [print this page] Steel toe shoes are protective footwear with a built-in safety cap over the toe case. Such insulated steel toe shoes are weighty; however lightweight versions of these shoes have been introduced in the market.
Insulated steel toe shoes are occupation and activity shoes; for people who are constantly exposed to extreme temperatures, the risk of shock, water and uneven, hard or slippery surfaces.
Standards of protection prescribed by the Occupational Safety and Health Administration and bodies like the American National Standards Institute, International Organisation for Standardisation (Europe), etc. must be complied with. When you make your purchase, look for marks indicative of meeting these standards.
Steel toe shoes are ideally designed for protection against compression and impact injuries, but additional features like protection from puncture injuries and shock are also available.
Durable and effective, insulated steel toe shoes have conductive or non-conductive insulation. Suitable for volatile workplace environments, electrically conductive insulation prevents the build-up of static. Non-conductive insulation prevents electrical hazards.
Insulated steel toe shoes are generally worn in cold weather. Thinsulate, a synthetic insulating material was introduced to footwear in the 1980s. As you may have guessed, it is thin. This lining is compact, light and occupies less space. Moisture resistant and breathable, it is popular for heat retention.
Available in varying units from 200 Grams to over 1000 Grams; when you buy your insulated steel toe shoes, consider the temperatures you are exposed to (Higher the thinsulate specification, lower the temperature.)
Insulated steel toe shoes with a rating of 200 G, have a temperature rating of 55 to 65 degrees Fahrenheit. 400 G thinsulate has a temperature rating of 35 to 50 degrees Fahrenheit, while 600 G insulation is suitable for an estimated 15 to 40 degrees Fahrenheit.
Often embedded in waterproof boots, thinsulate keeps your feet dry and functions effectively even when its wet. Most steel-toe shoes are water-resistant intended to handle rain and snow with rubber outsoles; only some are designed to handle submersion.
Steel becomes cold in low temperatures owing to its metallic properties but insulated steel toe shoes will keep you warm. Alternately, steel toe shoes made up of composite materials are suitable for the cold.
A composite toe is essentially the same as a steel toe, but it has a non-metallic and non-magnetic cap. These shoes are advisable for people who pass through metal detectors at work.
Comfort is an essential element. Your insulated steel toe shoes will fit better without thick socks. Protective footwear shouldnt just avoid injuries they should also prevent foot problems like bunions.
When you make your purchase look for adequate ankle support, like that of boots. Companies like Chippewa, Thorogood, Bates and Nautilus are among the most sought after brands for insulated steel toe shoes.
