Those who are involved in rough and tough jobs prefer steel-toe boots for their foot’s safety.
Though this footwear acts as a safeguard, users often feel discomfort because of its steel-made toe cap and additional plate near the sole. So it’s necessary to make these boots comfortable.
Barring any delay, let’s dive in and see the methods of making steel-toe boots comfier.
How to Make Steel Toe Boots More Comfortable?
Rightly fitted pairs, soft socks, custom orthotics, cushioned insole, and bandage or moleskin tapes are some useful products to set your steel-toe boots comfortably. Besides, spending enough time and following proper procedures during the break-in period can aid you in the process.
As you’re struggling with the discomfort caused by steel-toe boots, the descriptive process of making them comfortable must be convenient for you. So, I thought of sharing the entire strategy with you.
Here are some techniques to make steel-toe boots more comfortable:
1. Get the Proper Fit
No matter which type of shoes you choose, always be serious about getting the appropriate fit. And ensure that your toes do not touch the end of the shoes. Otherwise, ingrown nails, toe bruises, many severe foot issues, and deformities can occur.
Researchers state that 3 in 5 people wear incorrectly fitting shoes which do not match the length and width of the foot.
Consequently, they can’t enjoy a smooth walking experience, but discomfort.
This similar case happens in wrong-fitting toe protective boots. So, properly measure your shoe size and make sure to get the accurate fit.
Steel toe work boots are worn for long hours and foot swells during this time due to heavy activities. Moreover, their sturdy toe room is somewhat narrow.
So, I’ll recommend going a half or full size up, depending on your foot shape and brand. To avoid unexpected trouble, try the shoes from the outlet prior to making a purchase.
2. Wear Socks
Wearing shoes without socks is not a good choice as it leads to blisters and rubbing the back of your ankle.
On the other hand, pairing up shoes with cushioned socks is relaxing, especially for stiff-toe box boots.
Wondering which sock is good for a steel-toed boot?
Well, you can choose Darn Tough’s expensive socks. Though it comes with a hefty price tag, this odor-resistant piece will coat your feet with premium cushion, warmth, and breathability.
But assure to get the right size to enjoy all these advantages and avoid socks from slipping into shoes.
3. Use Toe Inserts or Shoe Filler
Do your toes often touch the edge of the steel toe working boot?
If so, a toe insert is a great deal for you. This foamy material protects the toe from touching the end of the shoes.
As a result, toes remain safe from wounds, pinching, and compression. Inserting this component inside the shoe is kid stuff and is mentioned in the packaging. First, select the size of the insert according to your shoe structure and buy it. Then put it inward of the boot.
After adding this inside the boot, can you realize the difference?
For now, toes do not bash with the hardy steel case. And you can confidently stride on without any finger pain.
4. Add Custom Orthotics
It’s a clinically proven material (also known as orthotic insole) that provides flourished arch support. Being customizable, it fits well with almost all shoes. Even you can put orthotics in Crocs!
Whether you’re a construction worker, food service worker, or athlete who demands steel-toe safety boots but is dissatisfied with their built-in support should use custom orthotics.
This layer also delivers the user’s expected comfort level by adding additional cushions to the orthotics.
In a word, it’s a smart choice for plantar fasciitis, aching feet, and individuals who are associated with back-breaking activities for late hours.
5. Repair the Boot
Sometimes, the toe box gets dented and squeezed due to the pressure of weighty objects. In this case, toes come in contact with the steel layer and get hurt.
To get rid of this problem, repair the toe case or replace the ruined one with a new box. Then cheerfully work along with comfortable footwear.
I’ll recommend altering the shoeing cycle. That is, do not depend on only one set, rather buy two or more steel-toed pairs. This will protect one pair from tolerating all workplace stress. Additionally, help you to arrive at the workstation with a different outlook!
6. Wrap Toes with Moleskin Tape
Taping your toes with moleskin tape prevents them from rubbing against the hard toe box. Cover each of the toes with this material and put on the boots. When you return home from hours of working, you won’t see any scratches on your fingers.
Though some users suggest covering the entire foot with bandages, I think it’s a lame idea. Because steel-toe boots are already weighty and bulky. Wearing it with a bandage-packed foot seems weird!
Furthermore, bandage wrapping on a daily basis is time-consuming. And you really don’t wanna be involved in this task while you’re in a rush.
7. Stretching Spray
You must be wondering stretching spray is for shoe interior expansion. Then how can it make shoes comfortable?
Well, during stretching the spray also softens the shoe material including leather, suede, canvas, nubuck, and synthetics.
So apart from the toe box, if any other part of the boot is causing the discomfort, spritz stretching spray there and dry out the shoes properly. Hence, you will get a flexible interior and upper.
If you feel any disturbance in the ankle area, use tongue pads for steel-toe work boots.
So, you have got to know all about making steel-toe boots cozier.
But your curious mind must wanna know why manufacturers do not fix this discomforting issue. And even so, why do huge numbers of people purchase this footwear?
To discover the fact, jump to the next segment!
Are Steel Toe Boots Uncomfortable?
Actually, the structure of these shoes and the amount of cushion satisfies normal feet. But suffering arises when people buy improper sizes and regularly depend on the protective toe boots for a long duration (8-10 hours per day). And that’s what most working people do.
Moreover, individuals with flat feet and other foot issues like hammertoes, bunions, and calluses are also in agony with these shoes.
Because this type of footwear is less arch supportive and the narrow-shaped toe cap is made with rigid material, i.e., Steel. Therefore, blisters with this boot are common and people complain about why steel-toe boots hurt my toes.
So, it’s a must to wrap your boots with extra comfort. Then you can nicely enjoy its other benefits like protection against falling objects and squeezing.
Closing Thoughts
Protective toe boots are designed to withstand injuries, especially job site hazards. But when the discomfort issue rises, you won’t seize the advantages included in this footwear.
However, you really don’t need to bother about this matter anymore. As you’re now acknowledged with the ways of making the steel toe boots more comfortable.
So, it’s time to enjoy your work with a secure and cozy pair!
If you have further queries, just abandon them in the comment section.
