The winter season can pose many challenges and safety risks in the workplace. With cold temperatures, workers must be thorough in choosing the right protective gear to wear on the job. One of the most important pieces of safety equipment are your work boots. Without the right pair of winter work boots, you could be at risk for slips, trips and falls.
With all the work boot options that are out there today, it can be hard to choose the one that will best fit your needs. It is important for you to keep in mind the conditions that you may be working under. Will you be working outdoors? If so, how cold can it get? How much snow and rain can you expect? And, what kind of work will you be doing? By answering these questions, you can narrow down your options and choose the work boots that have the features you need.
Essential Features to Look for in Winter Work Boots
Insulation and Material
The first consideration when choosing winter work boots is insulation. Look for boots with proper insulation to provide warmth during cold temperatures. Additionally, opt for work boots made from waterproof materials like leather or rubber to keep your feet dry in wet and snowy conditions.
Temperature Rating
Temperature ratings are provided by many boot manufacturers, so where possible choose a rating suitable to your task and work environment. This rating indicates the lowest temperature at which the boots can effectively provide insulation. Select work boots with a temperature rating appropriate for the coldest conditions you expect to encounter during your work.
Comfort and Fit
Comfortable boots are critical for long hours of work in cold weather. Ensure that the work boots provide a snug fit without being too tight, as tight boots can restrict blood circulation and make your feet feel colder. Consider trying on boots at the end of the day when your feet are slightly swollen to ensure a comfortable fit throughout your workday.
Slip Resistance
Working in icy or snowy conditions demands excellent slip resistance to prevent slips and falls. Look for work boots with slip-resistant outsoles featuring deep treads or aggressive lug patterns. High-quality outsole materials provide a reliable grip on slippery surfaces, increasing your safety and stability.
Durability and Quality
Investing in high-quality winter work boots is crucial for long-term use and value for money. Look for boots that are well-constructed with durable stitching, reinforced toe caps, and quality materials. While quality boots may have a higher initial cost, they are likely to outlast cheaper options and provide better protection in extreme cold weather conditions.
Featured Work Boots for Winter
1. JB's 9H3 Thinsulate Freezer Boot, Zip Sider & Composite Cap, Wheat
The JB’s Thinsulate Thermal Zip Boot is insulated with 400g of Thinsulate Insulation for extra warmth. They can be worn in cold stores down to -25 degrees and are designed with a composite toe cap, so the wearer’s toes stay warmer for longer. Its features include:
• Dual density Nitrile Rubber/PU sole construction
• Removable extra thick PU insock
• Fuel and Oil resistant, Non-marking sole
• SRC slip resistant and anti-static sole
• Flex zone technology
• Composite toe cap and TPU toe cover
• Out sole heat resist to 300 degrees Celsius
• 3M Thinsulate 400g thermal insulation
• Meets AS 2210.3:2019 certified by BSI BMP 622279
2. GATOR Cool Room / Freezer Safety Boot, 600G Thinsulate Insulated
With 600g Thinsulate thermal insulation and a full waterproof membrane this outstanding boot can be worn in temperatures as low as -40°C (subject to time and conditions).600g Thinsulate thermal insulation. Features include:
• Composite toe cap with 200j impact protection - Does not conduct cold
• Water resistant full grain leather upper with FULL WATERPROOF MEMBRANE
• Can be worn in temperatures as low as -40°C (subject to time and conditions)
• Zip side with webbing
• Bump cap protection with ankle support
• 300°C heat resistant rubber outsole
• Composite pierce resistant insulating midsole
3. Steel Blue 312661 Southern Cross Lace Up Zip Bump Cap Safety Boots, Suede Leather, Wheat
The Southern Cross® Zip is a popular choice for construction, warehouse, fabricators and indoor trades. Already legendary, the safe and comfortable features. Features include:
• 150mm lace-up ankle boot with padded collar and tongue plus quick-release side zip
• Cowhide water-resistant Nubuck leather and stitched in Nylon thread. Non-Corrosive Lacing
• Heavy-duty, flexible anti-bacterial nonwoven insole
• Directly moulded Polyurethane midsole for greater shock absorption.
• Antistatic Thermoplastic Urethane(TPU) outsole for superior wear properties. Heat resistant to 130ºC.
• Steel Toe Cap - Made from hardened steel for premium toe protection.
• Slip & Oil Resistance - All Steel Blue footwear is designed to exceed the Slip resistance requirement in both the AS 2210.3 and EN ISO 20345
• Water Resistant - A special tanning process treatment means all Steel Blue boots are water resistant.
4. Steel Blue 512761 Ladies Southern Cross Zipsider Safety Boot
The Southern Cross® Zip Ladies is a 150mm high Ankle Boot with a scalloped, padded collar for ease of movement. These boots feature:
• Made from hardened steel for premium toe protection.
• Our standard durable outsole with heat resistance to 130°C.
• All Steel Blue footwear is designed to exceed the Slip resistance requirement in both the AS 2210.3 and EN ISO 20345.
• Prevents the build-up of static electricity within your body by dissipating it through the sole.
• A special tanning process treatment means all Steel Blue boots are water resistant.
• Lace Up for comfort, then use the side zips for quick access.
• A classic fastening for snug, well-fitting work boots.
• Steel Toe Cap - Made from hardened steel for premium toe protection.
• TPU Outsole - Our standard durable outsole with heat resistance to 130°C.
• Slip & Oil Resistance - All Steel Blue footwear is designed to exceed the Slip resistance requirement in both the AS 2210.3 and EN ISO 20345.
• Water Resistant - A special tanning process treatment means all Steel Blue boots are water resistant.
To stay comfortable, safe and productive in cold weather conditions, finding the best winter work boots for your needs is essential. By considering factors such as insulation, temperature rating, comfort, slip resistance, and durability, you can find the perfect pair of work boots to keep your feet warm, dry, and protected.
There are a variety of work boots offered on Southland.com.au with descriptions to assist you in making the right choices for your individual workplace.