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» What to Keep in Mind When Choosing Outdoor Work Boots?

What to Keep in Mind When Choosing Outdoor Work Boots?

Police officer walking towards squad car wearing black, slip-resistant outdoor work boots

Winter is well and truly upon us and that means shorter days and colder nights. Crews that spend the majority of their shifts outside are aware that they will be spending a considerable amount of time in colder and darker weather performing their duties.

A reliable pair of outdoor work boots is a must-have for anyone in the military, ambulance, police or security (M.A.P.S.) industries. Tactical boots are a type of boot that is fit for all kinds of weather: sub-zero temperatures, sizzling summers, hot desert sands, extreme rainy conditions and snowy weather. This type of safety footwear will prepare officers, medical staff and military units to perform their tasks and keep them safe at the same time. Tactical boots are also able to withstand extreme conditions without compromising the wearer’s comfort, performance and agility.

5 must-haves for outdoor work boots in M.A.P.S. industries

A complete tactical uniform is an essential piece to help protect and safeguard law enforcement, military personnel and ambulance crews. While combat and protective gear are a key part of the uniform, combat and safety boots are also important pieces of the whole ensemble. 

At Shoes For Crews, we strive to offer the best variety of insulated and protective safety boots specifically suited for industries that spend long shifts outdoors. This type of operational footwear is built to handle winter’s harshest elements and the heaviest rains.

Keep reading to learn what features we recommend for outdoor work boots. 

Paramedic kneeling down on ground next to ambulance preparing emergency kits

Optimal comfort

The most important point when looking for outdoor work boots is comfort. It is equally important for the wearer to try out a pair of boots before making a purchasing decision. Wearing tactical boots that are the right fit will ensure they will be more comfortable. Not too tight, not too loose will be the perfect balance to encounter. 

The right height

Height is another important factor to consider when looking for tactical boots. On one hand, the ideal height for boots is 6 inches (15.5 cm) which will aid in supporting the ankles while running or hiking on uneven surfaces. On the other hand, some law enforcement and security personnel prefer 8-inch (20.3 cm) boots. This height is best suited for a variety of military and law enforcement drills, including hiking (especially with heavy packs). If your client is looking for boots that are best for action-driven or operational activities, then 8-inch boots may be a better fit.

Shock absorbing midsoles

Another vital feature outdoor work boots must have is supportive midsoles. The two materials that are most commonly used are Polyurethane (PU) and ethylene-vinyl acetate (EVA). Both are ideal for reducing the impact and potential strain on the feet during running exercises or long treks. Having higher heels on tactical boots would invalidate their purpose. Walking even a short distance in a pair of unsupportive tactical boots would quickly result in pain and discomfort. 

High-quality materials

The materials used to manufacture outdoor boots have a major impact on the lifespan, waterproofing, and breathability of the footwear, to name a few. Tactical boots are usually manufactured from full-grain leather or faux leather. Footwear that is made from synthetic materials are often cheaper and lighter but they tend to wear out faster. However, boots with more lacing are generally more supportive and comfortable for long hours of use. Shoes For Crews safety boots are made of waterproof materials with a combination of leather and mesh. 

Lightweight

At Shoes For Crews, our boots are lightweight meaning they can help wearers manoeuvre and move with flexibility in all situations. The weight of a tactical boot is a key factor because the heavier the boots, the harder it will be to move in them. Boots that are lighter (between 550g to 775g is the optimal weight) can be worn for longer periods of time and can reduce the risk of foot fatigue. What is more, they can increase stamina, speed and agility thus enhancing an employee’s performance on the job.

Two paramedics loading a stretcher into ambulance wearing supportive black Shoes For Crews work boots

At Shoes For Crews, we have been producing one of the best slip-resistant outsoles on the market for decades. While we have implemented recent innovations to our entire product range in the last two years, one thing has stayed the same: our remarkable slip-resistant technology. We focus on comfort, durability and support to offer work boots of impeccable quality from every aspect. 

The key components of a great pair of safety boots are durability, comfort and a superior level of protection. Our footwear for military, ambulance, police and security (M.A.P.S.) provides excellent levels of support and comfort with a highly slip-resistant outsole. When every second counts, comfortable and well-fitting footwear is the be-all and end-all. Reducing slips and trips at work by supplying organisations with high-quality outdoor work boots is our mission at Shoes For Crews. If you would like to learn more about what features our line of safety work boots have, please do not hesitate to contact us. We’d be delighted to provide you with more information and send a free pair of sample boots!

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