What Means S3 or S1 for Safety Footwear? 

How to Chose the Correct One? 

In this guide, you will easily find out how to choose the right EN ISO 20345-certified safety shoes that best suit your needs. In the sections below, you will find all the information to help you determine the right safety shoes:

1. Safety Shoes Standards (EN ISO 20345)
2. Safety Shoes Soles: Safety and Comfort
3. Safety Shoes Ankle Height: Comfort and Protection
4. Safety Shoes Upper Material: Durability and Comfort
5. Special Features: ESD and SRC-Certified Safety Shoes

Each work environment is unique, and your safety shoes should be selected according to your specific work area.
Now, let’s dive into the details and find out how to choose the right work shoes!

1. Safety Shoes Standards (EN ISO 20345)

Key Safety Features

✔ Protective Toe Cap → Resistant to 200J impact & 15kN compression

✔ Slip Resistance (SRC, SRA, SRB) → Prevents falls on wet and slippery surfaces

✔ Puncture-Resistant Sole → Protects against nails and sharp objects

✔ Water & Chemical Resistance → Keeps feet dry and safe

✔ Electrical Protection (ESD & Antistatic) → Shields against static electricity

✔ Heat & Fire Resistance (HRO Standard) → Ensures protection in extreme heat conditions

2. Safety Shoe Soles: Impact on Safety and Comfort

The sole material is crucial for slip resistance, flexibility, and durability.

Types of Soles & Their Advantages

• PU (Polyurethane) → Lightweight, flexible, suitable for long-term use (S1, S2, S3)
• TPU (Thermoplastic Polyurethane) → Harder and more durable, high abrasion resistance, excellent slip resistance (S3, S5)
• E-TPU (Advanced TPU Foam) → Provides energy return, extra comfort, shock absorption (S1P, S3, ESD)
• Rubber (Nitrile) → Durable, heat-resistant up to 300°C (HRO), slip-resistant (S3, S4, S5)
• EVA (Ethylene Vinyl Acetate) → Lightweight, comfortable, shock-absorbing (S1, S1P)
• PVC (Polyvinyl Chloride) → Waterproof & chemical-resistant (S4, S5, S7S)

For dry environments → PU or E-TPU soles
For slippery and oily surfaces → TPU or rubber soles (SRC-certified)
For high-temperature environments → HRO heat-resistant rubber soles
For waterproof & chemical-protected areas → PVC or rubber soles

3. Safety Shoe Ankle Height: Comfort & Protection

Ankle height plays a role in mobility, support, and protection.

Types of Ankle Heights

✔ Low-Ankle Safety Shoes → More flexible, breathable (Ideal for indoor work)

✔ Mid-Ankle Safety Shoes → Balanced protection & mobility (Ideal for logistics & warehouses)

✔ High-Ankle Safety Boots → Maximum ankle support (Ideal for construction, roadwork, heavy industry)

For comfort & movement → Low or mid ankle shoes
For ankle support & injury prevention → High ankle boots

4. Safety Shoe Upper Material: Durability & Comfort

The upper material determines waterproofing, breathability, and durability.

Best Upper Materials

• Full-Grain Leather → Durable, waterproof, impact-resistant (S2, S3, S5)
• Nubuck Leather → Soft, flexible, lightly water-resistant (S1, S2, S3)
• Microfiber → Lightweight, chemical-resistant, easy to clean (S1P, S2, ESD)
• Mesh & Textile → Maximum breathability, lightweight (S1, S1P)
• Rubber & PVC → Fully waterproof & chemical-resistant (S4, S5, S7S)

For breathability → Mesh & microfiber uppers
For durability & protection → Leather uppers
For extreme waterproofing → Rubber & PVC uppers

5. Special Features: ESD and SRC-Certified Safety Shoes

⚡ ESD (Electrostatic Discharge) Protection
✔ Prevents electrostatic buildup in electronics & explosive environments
✔ ESD-certified shoes (EN 61340-5-1)

🦶 SRC (Slip Resistance Certification)
✔ Highest slip resistance level (SRA + SRB = SRC-certified shoes)
✔ Ideal for food industry, cleaning, warehouses, and construction

For electronics & sensitive work → ESD-certified shoes
For maximum slip prevention → SRC-certified soles

Conclusion: Choose the Right Safety Shoes for Your Job!

Selecting the right safety shoes ensures safety, comfort, and efficiency at work!

To find the best-fit one, visit our footwear collection to check out EN ISO 20345-certified work shoes!

👉 Want personalized shoe recommendations for your industry? Let us know in the comments! 🚧

Disclaimer

This article is for general informational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice. While the provided information aligns with current legal directives, in case of any discrepancies, the accuracy of legal directives should be prioritized. It is the reader's responsibility to ensure compliance with current legal requirements. Readers are encouraged to review applicable workplace safety regulations and seek expert guidance if necessary.