Worn-out Soles
You wouldn't drive around with bald tyres on your car, would you? Well, the same applies to boots, particularly when you rely on them to keep you stable and slip-free.
The soles of your work boots are the first line of defence against slips, trips, and falls, but over time and repeated use, soles wear down, lose traction, and become smooth. When this happens, you're at a higher risk of slipping on wet or uneven surfaces.
Additionally, worn-out soles can cause foot fatigue and discomfort, because a good sole unit should have comfort built into it. Take our IGS sole unit – we not only developed it with industry-leading grip, but also designed it with a shock-absorbing heel pod to give top-level comfort.
Damaged Boot Or Worn-out Upper
Over time, the upper of your boot can become worn out or damaged, which can compromise your boots' protective capabilities.
For example, if the upper is torn or has holes, your feet are going to be more than scruffy-looking and chilly when the wind gets in – they're going to be at risk of being injured. Remember, it's not just the toes that heavy or sharp items land on or impact: from sharp crop stubble in farming to side impact from equipment on building sites, your feet are vulnerable from hazards in all direction, and a strong durable upper can go a long way to protect you. In addition, if your feet have withstood a large impact, did you know that the safety performance of your boots may have been impacted as well? If this has happened or the upper is worn-out, your safety is compromised.
Reduced Support And Cushioning In Your Boot
Your work boots should provide support and cushioning to reduce the risk of foot and leg fatigue. Over time, the cushioning can break down, and this can lead to reduced comfort and protection.
Also, padding isn't just for comfort – there's a safety element too. If you're walking on uneven or unstable surfaces, padding higher up in the boot provides not only protection from impact, it also supports the ankle which reduces the chance of injury from twisting if you go over on your ankle in a trip or slip.
Reduced Support And Cushioning In Your Insole
The same thing goes for insoles. Overtime, particularly if you're using closed cell insoles, the cushioning will flatten and eventually be ineffective in adding comfort and supporting your arches. If you look at your insoles and they seem flat or lacking in padding, it's time for a change.
It's important to note that you can change insoles rather than needing to buy a whole new pair of boots, if this is the issue! Also, if you want to reduce the number of times you're changing your insoles, V12's Dynamic Arch insoles are the solution. We developed this range using durable open cell rebound foam, so they keep their shape and continue to absorb impact over time, giving you unrivalled comfort for much longer. To find out more, take a look here.