ask Dr.cold weather

You can't wear your safety shoes because they are too heavy and too hot. And all safety shoes are the same, right?

WRONG

There are many safety shoes available that are both lightweight and cooler. You just need to keep a few things in mind:

1. LEATHER.
Make sure that your shoes have leather uppers. The upper is the part of the shoe above the outsole. Cheaper shoes that have vinyl uppers do not allow your feet to "breathe."

2. NON-INSULATED.
You cannot wear that same pair of insulated waterproof boots that felt so good when it was below 40 degrees. Invest in a pair of safety shoes that are not insulated and have a lining like "Cambrelle" or "DriLex." These linings help "wick" moisture away from your feet, leaving them drier, cooler, and more comfortable.

3. SOX.
Make sure you have a sock designed for the summer. Many new styles are available that help to wick moisture away from your foot (just like the Cambrelle or DriLex linings mentioned in # 2). Plain old cotton socks absorb moisture. They may be comfortable for a while but once the cotton socks have absorbed all the moisture they can handle you are stuck with a damp sock and a damp foot.

4. BOOTS.
There are new "LIGHTWEIGHT" safety shoes that feature a lightweight alloy safety toe cap. Timberland Pro's "TITAN" line of shoes feature some of the lightest safety work boots. The picture at the top is Timberland Pro # 40006. You can see the entire Timberland Pro line here:http://rasenicks.com/home/default.asp

5. FIT
Fit is critical. The best shoe in the world is no good if it doesn't fit. Take some time and try on your work boots and make sure you have enough room for you feet to swell slightly as you work day progesses.

If you have any helpful information or experience with anything work shoe or work clothing related, post a comment. We would love to hear from you.