Clair Weston on how to make safety footwear more comfortable for those working in construction during hot weather.

As temperatures rise across the UK, construction workers will feel the heat in their feet as they put on protective safety boots. However, there are several actions workers can take to make wearing this essential PPE more comfortable.

Materials

Look for footwear designed with breathable textiles, perforated materials or properly treated leather that allows warm air and moisture vapour to move out of the shoe more effectively. This helps regulate the internal shoe climate, keeping feet cooler, drier and more comfortable during long periods of wear. 

Breathability

Safety footwear designed with breathable uppers and linings allows warm air and water vapour to escape more effectively, helping feet stay cooler and drier throughout the day. 

Socks

Breathable, moisture-wicking socks help draw sweat away from the skin, while seamless or low-friction designs can also help reduce rubbing and improve comfort. 

However, try to avoid socks that are too thick or tight, as they can restrict airflow. Changing into a fresh pair during a shift can also help reduce moisture build-up.

Drying

One of the most effective ways to manage safety shoes in hot weather is to ensure footwear dries completely between uses. To do so, open the footwear as much as possible by loosening the laces and pulling the tongue forward. This allows air to circulate inside the footwear and helps moisture evaporate more effectively from the lining and footbed.  

Insoles

Insoles absorb a large amount of moisture during wear and can gradually retain bacteria. Washing removable insoles by hand and replacing them periodically can help improve both hygiene and comfort. 

Better comfort

Improving moisture management and reducing heat build‑up inside the shoe, and taking time to procure well‑designed safety footwear, can also help limit the conditions that bacteria thrive in, supporting better comfort, hygiene and wearability throughout the working day.