While blue steel work boots are essential for protection, there’s no denying that your feet may still endure their fair share of aches and pains at the end of the workday. After all, no pair of shoes is perfect; every design has its pros and cons. Work boots are designed to be hardy and resilient, necessary qualities that may compromise comfort. Here’s all you need to know to enjoy the benefits and mitigate the disadvantages of wearing this rugged footwear.
Finding the Right Shoe Size Secures Comfort
When choosing work boots, you may want to take your time in trying on a few pairs and comparing comfort levels. Never settle for a size too short or too narrow. On the other hand, boots that are way too big are a sure source of hot spots and blisters owing to too much unnecessary movement and chafing. Here are a few more tips to consider during the shoe fitting process:
- Make sure to wear the type of socks you usually wear on site. Preferably, the most comfortable and appropriate socks for work boots are usually made of wool, polyester and synthetic blends. Unlike cotton, these fabric choices provide better cushioning for your soles.
- When testing for shoe length, slide your socked foot forward so that your toes are touching the boot’s front. Make sure that your index finger fits comfortably between your heel and the boot’s back. Better to check both feet; after all, a person’s left and right feet are often different sizes.
- Tie your shoelaces not too tightly but comfortable enough to keep your foot in place without sliding towards the boot’s front.
- Choose boots that flex at the balls of your feet. Please do not choose a pair that bends along your arch area as they fail to provide adequate support.
- Don’t forget that a person’s feet swell and are largest at the end of the day, most especially on a particularly hot one. Thus it would be ideal to schedule a shoe fitting after work hours.
Accessorizing with Arch Support Insoles Balances Durability with Comfort
Although work boots come with complete stock insoles, even the more expensive ones lack adequate support. It would be wise to buy arch support insoles. Especially if you suffer from arthritis or flat feet, your arches demand firm support in the form of insoles, the absence of which can cause foot ailments such as tendinitis, metatarsalgia and plantar fasciitis.
Arch support insoles help diffuse pressure from the ligament connecting your heel and toes, effectively spreading the impact of walking through the entire foot surface and consequently preventing heel pain and discomfort. They also address alignment issues that wreak havoc on your back, hips and knees.
When shopping for arch support insoles, make sure to consider durability, strong support and a flawless fit for maximum comfort.
Investing in Two Pairs of Work Boots is Your Best Bet on Comfort and Convenience
The longevity and serviceability of your work boots can be maximized by using leather conditioners, keeping them clean and dry, and alternating with a second pair.
By rotating your blue steel work boots, you give each pair the chance to dry out completely in between uses. This arrangement hits two birds with one stone – your feet are more comfortable and your boots last longer.