Work Shoes

[capper]

I go destroy sneakers in a matter of months.  I went to by new work shoes today instead of sneakers.  But I didn't by them because I thought they might have a metal shank in the soals (no steal toes).  

I was wondering if there is some way to tell if shoes have a metal shank in them.  I don't want shoes with a metal shank because I don't want to take them off every time I enter the protected area.

Does anybody recommend a good work shoe.

 

[Rennhack]

Wolverines, that cost >$120.  Add one gel-pad or other cushon liner, and you will have a shoe more comphy than a nike, and it will last for 4 years.

[HydroDave63]

or Red Wings, fine US craftsmanship !

[Pet_Cow]

I got my redwings.

[idrum4food]

Take a magnet while shopping.

[Walt Harris]

I luv my Redwings. And, at least at our small store, you get a lot of personal attention and service to get the right shoe and size for a perfect fit. One of the most miserable things to endure is 8, 10, or 12+ hours in the wrong shoes, especially if you are required to have steel toes, as we are. Good Luck!

[Nuclear NASCAR]

Capper,
You might see if you can get your money back if they have a steel shank.  Buy the boots & pass them through the metal detectors in the Main Access.  If they show a shank take 'em back.  We've been able to do that whenever we get a shoe truck at the plant.

I've got to agree with everyone elses comments, get the Wolverines or Red Wings.  They've held up the best & been the most comfortable I've ever worn.  Best of luck with the search.  

[girlnuke]

What is this?  Men talking about shoes? Be still my heart!

[Rennhack]

I just checked my choes, they are Wolverine DuraShock.  No metal, but a composit toe, so everyone is happy, it protects your toes, and does not alarm the monitors.  Plus they re comphy.  As I said, I add an additional insert for additional comphort.

I have also heard good things about redwings, but have never owned a pair.

[radgal]

Redwings Rule!!!

[Rain Man]

Magnum Hi-Techs and Rockies (both high tops).  They are like wearing sneakers, no break in with the hybrid ballistic nylon/leather ones.  Can be found for discount by catalog (Brigade Quatremaster, Cheaper Than Dirt, US Cavalry)

[Piston]

Redwings Rule!!!

It's good to hear a woman who knows a good hockey team =D  =D

[Phurst]

My Redwings were very hard in the soles. Double gel and pad didn't help. I now have Lehigh. They seem to be good. Redwings won't be able to buy another cup this year. Sorry!

[alphadude]

remember what ever u buy must have a substantial heel, a must for ladder rungs etc. also, determine which rating the box toe must have and if there is no specification, pick the lowest poundage, this will reduce calf fatigue by reducing the weight of the shoe, then gel sole the heck out of them to ruduce shock to the souls of the foot-shock meaning impact-and fatigue even further

[capper]

Thanks for all the advice!!!!  Now I just need to go get some new shoes.

 

[workinman]

I bought a pair of steel toed Redwing shoes that were the worst shoes I've ever owned, but my redwing work boots are the best I've ever owned!  It's a crap shoot, there's alot of good shoes out there reasonably priced, don't be suckered in by the big brand names.


 (afro)

[TK]

I'll tell you what I have problems with finding shoes, very difficult to find any small enough for women's feet! They just don't sell 'em that small, and boy's sizes don't work because they really don't make boy's work boots. I do own a pair of slightly too large Magnums, very comfy. Has a metal shank, but don't pick your feet high up in the monitor and you can get through.

[SloGlo]

i throw in with the wolverine durashocks.... best work boot for lightness and comfort that still meets criteria fer them ansi nazis.  the composite toe means they're warmer in the winter too, great fer doing yer shipments!  'n iffen yinze lived in the 'burgh i'd tell ya where yinze kin git 'em fer forty bucks.

[Already Gone]

The Wolverine Durashocks are the most popular among people I know.  My last pair of work boots were Red Wings with steel toes.  They took a little wearing in before they got comfortable, but they were okay.  I'm currently wearing the Timberland Pit Boss shoes with steel toes.  The jury is still out on these.  They fit well, and offer good support, but they are heavy (which doesn't bother me) and have padded insoles (which does bother my feet a little).
I don't feel like having a bunch of different work boots, so mine are always ANSI approved safety shoes with steel toes and oil resistant soles.  I would never wear a work shoe without a steel shank.  You never know when you're going to step on a nail, and shoes without steel shanks break down too quickly.
Not all of my jobs have metal detectors, but when there is one I just carry the work boots in and wear sneakers which are more comfortable for driving anyway.

I love to hear all the bulls#!t about how steel toed shoes can cut off your toes.  Any force great enough to mash the toe cap of your boot all the way through your foot would of course be great enough to destroy your toes anyway.  But idiots love to believe the stupid urban myths that they hear.  That's an entirely different topic that I'd like to share with you in a different thread.

[Atomic_Punk]

Another vote for comp toe Wolverine Durashocks.  Almost as cush as a good pair of sneaks.

[UncaBuffalo]

I don't want shoes with a metal shank because I don't want to take them off every time I enter the protected area.

Danner makes a safety-toe boot (the 'Striker') specifically for passing metal detectors...no metal anywhere, plus a plastic zipper on the side for easy removal if security (ie...airport) still makes you take them off.  I use them for all commercial nuclear work.  (They cost around $200 at the Danner outlet in Portland.)

For work areas where I don't have to pass a search train, I have steel-toed Danners (the 'Tinner') that are the most comfortable boots I've ever worn...felt like a pair of mocs from the moment I first tried them on.  I can stand on concrete all day and no leg, foot, or lower back pain.  (They were $175 from a retail outlet.)

[cairnit]

A lot of the women that I work with in the business have started wearing Ariat brand shoes for their work boots, thay are pretty comfortable and have not got a steel shank. They have steel toes also, but I haven't seen any with composite toes.

My husband loves his Chippewa's, says they are the most comfortable boot he has ever had. I bought him Wolverine Durashocks before, but his foot is too wide for the Wolverines. Only thing is Chippawa soesn't make a composite toe.

[cbramsey]

I must admit I am partial to Red Wings.

The last pair of Red Wings I bought have composite toes that do not set off metal detectors.

They have women's as well as mens.

The women's can be found at http://www.redwingshoes.com/productdetails.aspx?prodid=1191 and the men's can be found at http://www.redwingshoes.com/productdetails.aspx?prodid=1467.

Hope this helps.   

[SloGlo]

a year ago i found a deal on catepillar (same brand as the track vehicles) at sears.  they are a low cut semi sneaker model.  i have no complaints on this shoe after more than a year of 40 hours/week.  i recommend them.

[JessJen]

or Red Wings, fine US craftsmanship !

I love mine but only a few models come with a composite toe.....worth the money thats for sure!

[Already Gone]

Red Wing shoes with composite toes are all made in outside the U.S.

[SloGlo]

Red Wing shoes with composite toes are all made in outside the U.S.

sew ya telling me dat eye gotta go steel to git u.s.of a. quality?

[Already Gone]

Actually, Red Wing will probably be shutting down all of its USA manufacturing before long.  But, for now you have to go to steel toe if you want RW's made in this country.

[UncaBuffalo]

I'm currently wearing a pair of Irish Setters (made by Red Wing)...they seem well-made, but aren't particularly comfortable.

Rotating them with a pair of LaCrosse 'Wildfires' and a pair of LaCrosse steel-toed Sno-Pacs...both of these are in the 'barely-acceptable' category, even with gel insoles added.

I need to quit getting boots off the clearance rack and go back to Danners...  :/

[Valkrider]

Red Wing shoes with composite toes are all made in outside the U.S.

This isn't really accurate.  I just bought a pair of composite toe RW safety shoes (Model 06680-0) and the box says "Made in the USA with Imported Materials".

http://www.redwingshoe.com/productdetails.aspx?prodid=1467

Hope this clarification helps someone but I doubt it.

[nukewood]

My Doc Martin's were the most comfortable work boot ever but can't find them here in Oregon.

[Mike McFarlin]

Converse composites, made by the tennis shoe company. More comfortable than Doc Martins.

[Pochron]

Follow this link, or copy paste into address bar. Should be a good selection with some specials.
http://www.lapolicegear.com
Ron

[Mike McFarlin]

Just give me some Adidas Superstars...

[UncaBuffalo]

Danner makes a safety-toe boot (the 'Striker') specifically for passing metal detectors...no metal anywhere, plus a plastic zipper on the side for easy removal if security (ie...airport) still makes you take them off.  I use them for all commercial nuclear work.  (They cost around $200 at the Danner outlet in Portland.)

The soles of these boots have started to crack...and I've only got about 3 months of actual wear-time out of them, so...not as huge of a Danner fan as I used to be...

[JessJen]

I'm currently wearing a pair of Irish Setters (made by Red Wing)...they seem well-made, but aren't particularly comfortable.

You may just want to get refit.  My boots didnt make it in the move to IF so I picked up a pair of clearance boots here from the local RW store.  They didnt have my usual width but the size they had fit well enough so I gave it a shot and was miserable.  RWs have to be fitted right or else not worth the money, definitely go to an experienced shop who will measure your feet and go accordingly. 

[xobxdoc]

The Wolverine Durashock with composite toe is very comfortable with very little break in time. It will not set off metal detectors. Costs about $125 on line.

[B.PRESGROVE]

Alright Ive got to interject here.  When I worked for Searl Pharmacutical they got us a 2 pair of Nautilus safety shoes.  I got the sneaker style and I have got to admit my feet felt like they were walking on air.  I still have them and this is coming up on 10 years now since I got them.  They last and still to this day they are the most comfortable safety shoe I have ever owned.  My next favorite are Iron Age.

[volfireman07]

I love my Doc Martins.  I'm on my second pair.  I also have some Chippewas that are nice.

Try www.bootbay.com for a good selection.

By the way, OSHA passed a final rule requiring employers to pay for PPE (effective 02-13-08).  Unfortunately it excludes safety shoes unless the employer prohibits the employee from wearing them off-site.

[alphadude]

converse desert with composite toe are da bomb.. best work shoe i ever had. zipper side with lace ups -
may be hard to get in someplaces about $120. zappos has them I think.

ive used them all and for support I like these the best.

[Evilpixie]

I love my Doc Martens!  My first pair is about 15 years old and they still are going strong... I wear Docs as part of normal apparel, so I kinda have alot of them.  (not wanting to push a stereotype, I'm female... and I got the shoe gene- 'Nuff said)  None of them have reinforced toes, we're not required to have that here unless we are wearing something that someone could look at and think is a sneaker.  To that end, I have some Skecher sneaks with steel toes and they are so comfortable!  And being a metallic leather, they make a statement, too (very important to shoe girls)(And rather George Jetson does the nuke plant, too!). 

Additionally, Unca Buff- I got them on sale!  Normally $100, I paid only $20 for them.  I guess it depends on where you go to find the sale shoes.  Cheap shoe stores have cheap shoes, pretty much.  You're coming to SLO, it's a shoe mecca, verifitably!  Maybe you'll find something once you're out here?

[Evilpixie]

Oh, oh, getting Doc's around here is the best!  There is a shoe outlet down in Pismo and they have Doc's there... I got my pointy toed ones for something like $3!  (serious!) and my doc marten hooker boots for about $20 (they have an almost platform heel and lace up to my knees.  I wore them one year as my halloween costume- I dressed up like Joe Lykes!)

Another good place to find safety shoes for a good price... if you know the size you wear, look up the brand you like on e-Bay.  Serious shoe mecca there! 

[Mike McFarlin]

converse desert with composite toe are da bomb.. best work shoe i ever had. zipper side with lace ups -
may be hard to get in someplaces about $120. zappos has them I think.

ive used them all and for support I like these the best.

Go to converse.com and order, they are about 85 dollars I think.

[B.PRESGROVE]

Ok,  Im starting to feel a little wierd on this blog.  All this talk about shoes and shopping for them and clearance racks, and.....well you know.........those genes are suppose to be suppresed in me.  I am 38 years old, 285 pounds of nuclear powered beastage, and am all man, but.......theres that feeling again......must resist urge to........shop........shoes...........turning into wife...........NNNNNNNNOOOOOOOOOO!!!!!!!!!!!

[JessJen]

Ok,  Im starting to feel a little wierd on this blog.  All this talk about shoes and shopping for them and clearance racks, and.....well you know.........those genes are suppose to be suppresed in me.  I am 38 years old, 285 pounds of nuclear powered beastage, and am all man, but.......theres that feeling again......must resist urge to........shop........shoes...........turning into wife...........NNNNNNNNOOOOOOOOOO!!!!!!!!!!!

Give into the urge....YOU MUST SHOP!......no shame in it LOL

[slattmandu]

I also have to vote for the Converse composite toes. I've had high top boots and low top almost tennis shoe model. Little to no break in and comfortable!

[UncaBuffalo]

Got a pair of Wolverine CarbonMax for current job...lightest pair of safety toes I've ever worn...and top-3 on most comfortable...

[TENN-1]

I'm using Wolverine Durashock with a composite toe. The price was right (company supplied) and they are very warm and dry but the comfort can be a bit off on a twelve hour day. A good insole helped tremendously. 

[retired nuke]

Converse composite toe boots - light, don't bother the metal detectors, and I can wear them riding my M/C in to work.
Stock # C4444
About 30+ of us wear them at VY...they were new item on the shoe truck last time through. All have good things to say about them.

[SloGlo]

a year ago i found a deal on catepillar (same brand as the track vehicles) at sears.  they are a low cut semi sneaker model.  i have no complaints on this shoe after more than a year of 40 hours/week.  i recommend them.

aye yam still waring this pear of shoes.  still comfourtible after alla des years.  eye did give them a brake last winter.  i hadda work outside frum fall thru spring, so i went wit some new durashock for da dry cold days, 'n got out da yellow cement workers overboots on da catepillars when it wuz wet.  butt these hard toe sneaks kick butt. 

[bsdnuke]

Group,

In case your employer did not advise, OSHA requires the employer to provide PPE for the job.  So if you need a new pair, ask for reimbursement.  Don't be surprised if they tell you that you have to pay.

http://www.osha.gov/pls/oshaweb/owadisp.show_document?p_table=FEDERAL_REGISTER&p_id=20094

bsdnuke

[retired nuke]

Group,

In case your employer did not advise, OSHA requires the employer to provide PPE for the job.  So if you need a new pair, ask for reimbursement.  Don't be surprised if they tell you that you have to pay.

http://www.osha.gov/pls/oshaweb/owadisp.show_document?p_table=FEDERAL_REGISTER&p_id=20094

bsdnuke

from the above link:

(See 29 CFR
1910.132(h)(2); 1915.152(f)(2); 1917.96(a); 1918.106(a); 1926.95(d)(2))
The regulatory text makes clear that employers are not required to pay
for ordinary safety-toe footwear and ordinary prescription safety
eyewear, so long as the employer allows the employee to wear these
items off the job-site.

Since you can wear your safety shoes home, and to your next job, your employer isn't required to pay for them...

[bsdnuke]

The shoes usually qualify if they look like safety shoes with other guard functions and not like tennis shoes.  the glasses with side shields will also count since they will also protect you from sexually transmitted disease because no one will want to know you with those things on your face.

[McBride]

I have a problem with wide feet; dang near qualify as FLIPPERS!  I found that Hytest Footrests were great.  I got a boot with composite shank and toe.  I have had no trouble spending time on my feet.

Also, Hytest is made in the USA if I am not mistaken.

[UncaBuffalo]

Got a pair of Wolverine CarbonMax for current job...lightest pair of safety toes I've ever worn...and top-3 on most comfortable...

I've had these boots for 5 months now & don't like them as well as I used to...my ankles start screaming if I'm on concrete more than 6 or 8 hours...

Found some Converse safety-toe sneakers cheap on eBay.  Sub-average for comfort, but they work for dress-out shoes...

[UncaBuffalo]

converse desert with composite toe are da bomb.. best work shoe i ever had. zipper side with lace ups -
may be hard to get in someplaces about $120. zappos has them I think.

ive used them all and for support I like these the best.

Just scored a pair of these...like them real well so far...

[Mike McFarlin]

Just scored a pair of these...like them real well so far...

I had one pair to split across the ball of the foot (water kept leaking in, imagine that), but Converse replaced them. Perfect shoes for any "comfort creature".

[UncaBuffalo]

Got a pair of Wolverine CarbonMax for current job...lightest pair of safety toes I've ever worn...and top-3 on most comfortable...

Converse composites, made by the tennis shoe company. More comfortable than Doc Martins.

Okay, so I'm rotating a pair of CarbonMax with a pair of Converse composites...each was extremely comfortable for first month or so...now each gives me tired ankles/hips after 8-12 hours on my feet.

Has anyone found a good solution to how quickly shoes lose their bounce?  Insoles?  Supports?  ...?

...or do I just have to buy new boots every couple of months?  I know that's what all the running gurus recommend for running shoes, but...

[mohavejoe]

Okay, so I'm rotating a pair of CarbonMax with a pair of Converse composites...each was extremely comfortable for first month or so...now each gives me tired ankles/hips after 8-12 hours on my feet.

Has anyone found a good solution to how quickly shoes lose their bounce?  Insoles?  Supports?  ...?

...or do I just have to buy new boots every couple of months?  I know that's what all the running gurus recommend for running shoes, but...

Try MTB shoes they are a bit higher than other shoes but well worth it. google search MTB Shoes. Your feet or hips will not hurt know more.

[UncaBuffalo]

Try MTB shoes they are a bit higher than other shoes but well worth it. google search MTB Shoes. Your feet or hips will not hurt know more.

I looked at the MBT site...interesting idea...but a couple of questions...

1.  Do they make a safety shoe?  I saw a blurb about putting their sole on an existing safety-toed boot, but couldn't find any pre-made safety shoes on their site.
2.  Am I going to be able to use them at work?  I'm pretty sure our shoe policy calls for a distinct heel...for safe ladder climbing...

I may pick up a pair for outside work & give them a try.  Thanks.

[Brayantobbe]

I have the most amazing shoes I bought through Naturalizer and I can't say enough about them. I've gone through two pairs already within the past few years and have another spare remaining once my second wears out. Not only are they stylish, but they're black and professional.

[mostlyharmless]

I have a pair of very ugly but very comfortable Rockports. They are not stylish and only come in black. They are composite toe so they do not set off the metal detectors