Now, we’ve got a great range of footwear to choose from here at City Workwear, so you can count on us to have all the right advice on how best to choose the winter footwear for you and your team. Here are some of the top things we’d recommend keeping in mind!
Understanding your work environment
Before buying winter work boots, it’s always best to start by assessing the unique demands of your work environment. So for example, you’ll need to consider factors like as potential temperature fluctuations, exposure to moisture or chemicals, and the presence of hazards like slippery surfaces or sharp objects. Don’t forget to account for potential future hazards too, not just current ones, and how much your team will reasonably be expecting their boots to protect them.
Ensure safety features
Safety should always be a top priority when choosing winter work boots, especially in hazardous environments. Not only is it obviously desirable for your team, but arguably it’s even a legal obligation. You’ll need to check that your footwear meets relevant safety standards, such as EN certifications for impact resistance, electrical hazard protection, and slip resistance. And of course, don’t forget to look for features like reinforced toes, puncture-resistant outsoles, and high-visibility accents to enhance safety and reduce the risk of workplace accidents.
Prioritise comfort
Comfort might not sound as important as safety right off the bat, but believe it or not, it’s equally crucial. If something is safe but not comfortable or convenient to wear or use, there will always be people who refuse to use it on principle. At that point, it becomes more of a case of “should” wear it, rather than “will”.
So for that reason alone, comfort needs to be a key consideration when it comes to selecting winter work boots, especially since you and your team are likely be wearing them for extended periods. It’s a good idea to look for boots with cushioned insoles, padded collars, and ample arch support to reduce fatigue and provide all-day comfort. Additionally, you might want to consider features like breathable linings and moisture-wicking properties to keep your feet dry and comfortable, even during strenuous activity.
Proper fit and sizing
Technically, this probably comes under comfort, but it’s important enough to be worth mentioning individually. Proper fit is crucial for both comfort and safety when it comes to winter work boots. Look for boots with roomy toe boxes and ample ankle support to prevent discomfort and reduce the risk of blisters or injuries. If you’re buying them online, it’s always a good plan to check the manufacturer's sizing guide and consider ordering multiple sizes to find the perfect fit.
Insulation and waterproofing
This is useful for almost any type of workwear, but it’s especially important for winter footwear, given the lower temperatures and frequent rain that the darker UK seasons involve. Look for boots with high-performance insulation materials that provide warmth without adding excess bulk. By the same token, you’ll want to choose boots with waterproof membranes or treated leather uppers to keep moisture out and ensure your feet stay dry in snowy or wet conditions.
Consider durability and longevity
Investing in high-quality winter work boots is essential to ensure they withstand the rigours of your work environment and last for multiple seasons. You’ll want to keep an eye out for boots constructed from durable materials such as full-grain leather or synthetic fabrics, known for their resilience and longevity. And of course, make sure to pay attention to the quality of construction, including reinforced stitching, durable hardware, and robust outsoles designed to withstand heavy use and harsh conditions.
And of course, if you’re on the lookout for the perfect winter boots and workwear, you’re in exactly the right place. We’ve got an extensive range of winter footwear to choose from here at City Workwear, including boots, shoes and wellies.
Feel free to take a look around our website to see what you can find, or alternatively give our team a call on 0330 004 0440, and we’ll be happy to help however we can!
