When you’re working in a warehouse, you’ll find yourself on your feet for part—or all—of your shift. It depends on your job. Most likely, you’ll be spending a lot of time walking on concrete. And this means your feet will take a beating if you don’t have the right footwear, plus you could even be putting yourself in danger of injuries. Simply strapping on a pair of running sneakers isn’t going to cut it. You need specialized shoes for warehouse work.
Types of shoes to consider
The type of warehouse shoe you need depends on your job. If you’re in a more industrial setting or you’re only doing a fair amount of walking, a steel-toed work boot is your best choice. If you’ll be doing mostly walking, a work sneaker is better—since a boot will be too heavy and put too much strain on your leg muscles.
Qualities of a good work shoe or sneaker
No matter what work shoe you choose, the best options have the following in common:
- A supportive arch
- Shock absorption across the sole of the foot
- A slightly rounded, cushioned midsole
- A hefty, rigid front
- Wiggle room for your toes—but not too much (the shoe shouldn’t be too large or too small)
These qualities will help your foot endure hours walking and standing on a concrete surface, plus protect your toes from the danger of falling objects.
What to avoid
The following features will hurt your feet and are best avoided when choosing a work shoe:
- High heels
- Flats with a thin sole and no support
- Anything that doesn’t fit right
How to shop
Pay careful attention to the description and read the reviews (if you’re ordering online). If you’re trying on in a store, simply ask the clerk what you need and what they recommend. Brands that carry decent work shoes are: Caterpillar, Timberland, Adtec, KEEN, Skecher’s, Reebok and Puma. Many offer styles designed specifically for men or women.
Check with your boss or recruiter
If you’re looking for more suggestions of which type of shoe to buy, simply ask your boss or recruiter. They’ll be able to provide information to help guide you to the right decision.
Looking for a new job?
Wood Personnel specializes in light industrial and warehouse work. To learn more, contact us today!