S1, S1P, S3: Safety Shoe Ratings Explained
The codes stamped on every safety shoe tell you exactly what protection you're getting. Here's how to read EN ISO 20345.
EN ISO 20345 is the international standard for safety footwear. Every certified shoe carries a 200-joule toe cap (the 'S' family) plus a code describing its extra features.
What the codes mean
SB is the base: a toe cap only. S1 adds a closed heel, antistatic properties, energy-absorbing heel and oil-resistant sole. S1P adds a puncture-resistant midsole. S3 adds water resistance and a cleated outsole — the go-to for construction and outdoor work.
Match the rating to the risk
For dry indoor floors, S1 or S1P is usually enough. For wet, outdoor or heavy-duty environments, choose S3. Look for the marking moulded into the tongue or printed on the label — not just the seller's description.