Knowing what kind of footwear will keep you safe at your job is important. Not only should they protect your feet from falling objects, but also from bruises, burns, sprains, and cuts. Being aware of the differences between alloy, composite, and steel toes is a good place to start in making your selection. 

Steel toe boots are the original standard for safety footwear, introduced more than 80 years ago. A favorite among construction, manufacturing, and material handling workers, this footwear option has its pros and cons.

-          Pros:

• Typically inexpensive
• Thinner than a composite toe
• Strongest toe protection available

-          Cons:

• Very heavy material
• Offers poor insulation in cold temperatures
• Can be dented

The demand for composite toe footwear has increased in the last decade due to its lightweight design and comfortability. Often created with a combination of non-metal materials like Kevlar, carbon fiber, plastic, or fiberglass, they are a better choice for outdoor wear, as they are less affected by ambient temperature.

-          Pros:

• 30% lighter than steel toes
• Won’t heat up or cool down like a metal would
• Best for workers who handle electrical components

-          Cons:

• Can’t take as much impact or compression as a steel or alloy toe boot
• Bulkier than its alternatives
• Can crack or shatter

Alloy toe boots are popular because they’re very similar to steel toes in performance, but weigh less. They’re made from titanium, aluminum, or a combination of other light materials.

-          Pros:

• 30-50% lighter than steel
• Thinner, lightweight material
• More toe room

-          Cons:

• Runs higher in price
• Sets off metal detectors
• Conducts electricity—not ideal for workers in the electric field

Alloy, composite, and steel toe boots are all good options for protection at work. It’s important to know the differences between these three toe materials when picking out footwear that’s right for your job.