The anatomy of a safety shoe

Safety shoes have become more complicated over the years, but still consist of some basic components:

The outsole: This is the outer layer of the shoe that makes contact when we walk on various surfaces. It is usually a treaded layer on the underside of the shoe, usually made from carbon rubber, PVC (Poly(vinyl chloride) or similar material. It resists wears and provides traction. It may also have a studded or waffle design to enhance traction on softer surfaces. This material may provide protection from various chemicals, including acids, oils and alkali.

The midsole: This is considered the most important part of the shoe as it is the cushioning and stability layer between the upper and the outsole. The most common materials for the midsole of safety shoes are ethylene vinyl acetate (EVA), polyurethane (PU) or a combination of the two. Often there is a dual-density midsole that has a firmer material on the inner side (medial side) to help limit pronation (the natural rolling motion of limbs) of the foot. A lot of proprietary technologies developed by different manufacturers go into the midsoles of safety shoes (e.g. air, gel and memory foam and other high-tech plastics materials).

The upper: This is the part of the shoe that wraps around and over the top of the foot. It may be made of leather or a synthetic material that is lighter and breathable (to reduce heat from inside the safety shoe) or from a combination of both. The tongue of the upper should be padded to cushion the top of the foot against the pressure from the laces as well as minimal metatarsal protection. Often, at the back of the safety shoe, the upper is padded to prevent rubbing and irritation against the Achilles tendon.

The heel counter: This is a firm and inflexible cup which is built into the upper and surrounds the heel. It is usually very firm so that it can control motion of the rearfoot.

Post or footbridge: This is the firm material in the midsole which increases stability along the inner side (arch side; medial side) of the safety shoe.

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