Footwear Care & Fit Guide
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Maintenance tips for your safety shoes (Shoe Care)
- Wear DRY SHOES only
- Always wear safety shoes with socks.
- Keep the laces tied for a snug and comfortable fit. Do not wear or take off shoes with tied up laces.
- To ensure the best service and wear from footwear, it is important that the footwear is regularly cleaned. Do not use any caustic cleaning agents.
- Suede, Nubuck, Crazy Horse Leather: As with grain leathers, clean with a damp cloth but ensure that the footwear does not become saturated. When dry, gently rub with a suede / nubuck cleaning block or a suede brush to restore the finish.
- If the footwear becomes damaged, it will NOT provide the optimum level of protection and therefore should be immediately replaced. NEVER USE DAMAGED FOOTWEAR.
- Wet footwear should be allowed to dry naturally in a cool, dry area and not be force dried as this can causes deterioration of the upper material.
- Change your socks daily.
- Wear the shoe properly by putting the full foot inside the shoe and resting the heel on the sole.
- Barton, CG, CS, Oil Pull Up Leather: Remove dirt and stains with a damp cloth before applying a good wax polish to keep the leather supple and improve water resistance.
- Sole: A blunt knife or a stiff bristled brush can be used to clean the sole.
- If the footwear is taken care of and worn in the correct working environment and stored in dry ventilated conditions, it should give a good life, without premature failure.
Foot Care
Aching Feet
Common foot problems can occur from long periods of standing on the job, repetitive motions, improper foot alignment, or improper footwear. This can lead to muscle and ligament fatigue which increases risk of injury and damage to bones, joints, muscles, ligaments and other tissues of the feet. The resulting inflammation and abnormal wear and tear can lead to more serious conditions such as Plantar Fasciitis (heel pain), Metatarsalgia (pain at the forefoot) and Repetitive Strain Injury.
- When purchasing shoes, select a stable shoe with a sturdy heel counter (the back of a shoe that controls motion) and stable midsoles that provide shock absorption.
- Purchase lower heels and broad soles to provide a more stable base of support.
- Fully lace your shoes/boots every time you put them on to maximize support. When selecting shoes, look for lace-up shoes as they offer more support than Velcro or slip-on shoes.
- Replace workplace shoes and boots at least every 6 – 12 months or when your body first starts showing signs of fatigue.
Blisters on Feet
Blisters on the feet can be prevented by wearing comfortable, well-fitting shoes and clean socks. Inherently ill-fitting or stiffer shoes present a larger risk of blistering. Blisters are more likely to develop on skin that is moist, so socks that manage moisture or frequent sock changes will aid those with particularly sweaty feet.
These fitting tips will help facilitate you in finding the perfect pair.
- Have both feet measured (Most people don’t have the same exact size feet).
- Fit to the largest foot.
- Fit when feet are most swollen.
- Obtain a good heel-to-ball fit.
- Stand during the fitting process.
- Avoid footwear that is too tight.
- Walk to ensure a good fit.
Sweaty Feet
As stated by Mayo Clinic, Sweating and body odour is natural and healthy. Although perspiration is practically odourless, perspiration can sometimes cause an unpleasant smell when it comes into contact with bacteria on your skin.
- Dry your feet thoroughly after you bathe. Dry thoroughly with a clean towel, particularly between your toes. Microorganisms thrive in the damp spaces between your toes. Use over-the-counter foot powders to help absorb sweat.
- Choose shoes and socks made of natural materials. Shoes made of natural materials, such as leather, can help prevent sweaty feet by allowing your feet to breathe.
- Wear the right socks. Some cotton blends and wool socks help keep your feet dry because they absorb moisture. When you're active, moisture-wicking athletic socks are a good choice, as well.
- Change your socks often. Change socks or hose once or twice a day, drying your feet thoroughly each time. Women may prefer pantyhose with cotton soles.
- Rotate your shoes. Shoes won't completely dry overnight, so try not to wear the same pair two days in a row if you have trouble with sweaty feet.
- Air your feet. Go barefoot when you can, or at least slip out of your shoes now and then. Sandals may be an option for casual wear.
Fungal Infections
Fungus thrives in dark, warm, moist places. It can grow on the feet, between the toes, and on the toenails. Causes are not keeping the feet clean and dry, walking barefoot by pool areas or in locker rooms, wearing shoes that do not provide ventilation, and a weakened immunity system. The fungus is usually picked up from a moist area.
To prevent fungal problems:
- Alternate shoes so they have a day to dry out.
- Dry your feet thoroughly if they become wet before wearing shoes.
- Use a foot powder to absorb perspiration.
- Change socks often.
Severe Leg and Back Fatigue
Size Guide
Size Chart Version 1
Size Chart Version 2 (Selective Range)
| US | 6 | 7 | 7.5 | 8 | 9 | 10 | 11 | 11.5 | 12 |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| UK/India | 5 | 6 | 6.5 | 7 | 8 | 9 | 10 | 10.5 | 11 |
| Europe | 38 | 39 | 40 | 41 | 42 | 43 | 44 | 45 | 46 |