In the past, women in construction sites and similar workforce categories were rare. Some even stereotype blue-collar jobs as appropriate only for men. Nevertheless, strong, empowered women are proving these stereotypes daily and breaking barriers in labour work.
Researchers saw a 34% increase in women’s construction roles in 2020 alone. This statistic shows that women can do skilled handiwork as long as they are given equal opportunities to explore this career option. Ahead are some tips to help you choose the perfect women’s work boots to protect you in your day-to-day job:
Protection
Women’s boots come in various styles, colours, and lengths. They are trendy and they are also individually made for a particular job. Depending on your work environment, you can purchase shoes that protect you against electrical shock, heat, puncture, cuts, slips, and hazardous environmental conditions.
In addition, Australia has a safety footwear standard of AS 2210.3:2019. It states that a work boot must have a toe cap to protect you against 200 joules of impact and 15 kilonewtons of compression. Your pair of shoes must pass this regulation and earn a conformance mark together with its other protection capabilities.
Fit
Your pair of boots should, first and foremost, correctly fit your feet. It is wise to wear the socks you intend to wear with your work boots as you shop for them, and try walking on a pair for a few minutes to get the feel of the shoes. Doing so will allow you to check for slippage or loose shoe fit that may cause foot injury and damage.
Men’s vs. Women’s Boots
Manufacturers traditionally made women’s PPE or personal protective equipment a size-down from men’s options. While minor variations of products such as clothing and rain jackets or coats may work for some females, this doesn’t apply to footwear. Furthermore, workwear made and dedicated to women must increase as their work population also multiplies.
Women have anatomically narrower and smaller feet than the average man. Females also have higher arches on their feet, so the fit and design of the women’s work boots should drastically accommodate the difference. Thus, you should choose a shoe brand that knows the anatomic difference and has dedicated its products to adapt with the females’ foot form.
Ergonomics
Often overlooked, a woman’s foot breadth or width should be one of the most critical factors you should consider when shopping for footwear. In addition, you should ensure proper arch support for women’s higher foot arches than men for comfortability. Purchasing a pair of work boots that resolves these concerns is vital in ensuring safety and efficient work performance.
Style
Work boots come in different lengths, with low-ankle cut jeans best suitable for electricians and plumbers as they allow optimal ankle mobility. Alternatively, you can reduce the risk of chemical spills and sprain when the shoes cover your ankles. Ultimately, steel-toed boots are ideal for outdoor agriculture and construction work.
Furthermore, wearing boots for work doesn’t have to take away your design preference. Unless mandated, you can choose from various colours such as pink to add a pop to your work attire. In addition, many stores now offer a wide array of stylish boot options to keep you comfortable and protected while brandishing women empowerment.
