How to Make Your Safety Shoes Last Longer

Safety shoes take a beating, but most wear out early from neglect rather than use. A little care keeps the protection intact and delays replacement.

Clean and dry properly

Wipe off mud and chemicals at the end of each shift, and let wet shoes air-dry away from direct heat — radiators and heaters crack leather and warp soles. Rotate between two pairs so each fully dries.

Inspect and know when to retire

Check the toe cap area for dents, the sole for worn tread, and the upper for splits. A cap that has taken a serious impact should be retired even if it looks fine — it's designed to absorb one major hit, not many.