Selecting the Right Sole for Safety Shoe

Many workplace hazards can prove to be harmful to workers. An array of workplace hazards, especially in the industrial or construction sector, make the Safety shoe a necessity. Be it a danger of heavy tools falling on the feet, an open electric wire or wet floor, Safety shoes with the appropriate Sole prevent any injury a worker is prone to. 

Choosing the best sole for your activity can be challenging. But better performance and experience of a perfectly made safety boot is well worth your effort to select a comfortable safety shoe that meets your safety needs. Read on to know how to choose the perfect sole for safety shoes.

Sole selection guide 

Application	Material	Advantages	Shortcomings	Picture
General Industries	PU (Polyurethane)	Light-weight, flexible, shock-absorbing and slip-resistant Resistant to oil, low concentration of acids/ alkalis and most solvents Low abrasion property for extra life Can withstand heat upto 120*C for 1 minute	Moderate heat resistance   Hydrolysis if not worn for long times
Chemical conditions	Rubber	High temperature resistance upto 300* C for 1 minute Highest resistance to hydrocarbons, acids/ alkalis and solvents Low abrasion	Heavier compared to PU Less flexible at cold temperatures
High Temperature	Vulcanised Nitrile Rubber	High temperature resistance upto 300* C for 1 minute Resistance to oils and acids Greater puncture resistance than natural rubber	Expensive compared to PU Not quite as flexible and strong as TPU
General Purpose	PU + Rubber	Very sturdy soles without excessive weight Combination of light and shock-absorbing PU midsole + super robust Rubber outsole	Slightly expensive compared to PU
General Purpose & Cold working conditions	PU/TPU	Lightweight Resistance up to 130°C Premium slip resistance Cold resistant down to -20°C	Slightly expensive compared to PU Moderate heat resistance

In choosing and buying safety shoes, always have it in mind that level of protection, comfort, stability, and durability should be your main priority.

If you are planning to buy safety shoes for your workplace, browse through www.karamonline.com.

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