Some people think weird things about steel-toed boots. Like any myth, some are based on half-truths and others are completely false.
What is certainly true is that you need to think carefully when you need steel-toed boots. It's one thing if your employer needs them but think carefully about whether you think you just need them or whether you really need them. Most people know if they really do.
So if you're in the market for steel-toed boots, or if you've built a pair and don't know what to expect, let's dispel some myths about steel-toed boots.
Steel-toed boots cut off your toes
This myth has faded somewhat over time; Far fewer people have repeated the "steel toe amputation" part, but it does come up every now and then.
For starters, that's not really possible. The MythBusters found just one instance of a person having his toe cut off while wearing steel-toed boots, and they tested steel-toed boots to see if they could live up to it, which they couldn't.
If something really heavy were to fall on your feet while wearing steel-toed boots, the worst that could happen would be your foot being crushed. Small consolation no doubt! However, amputation is simply not possible.
You are not allowed to wear steel-toed boots on airplanes.
Airline rules can be a little strange at times, but the common person may be under the impression that airport security doesn't allow you to wear steel-toed boots.
Can you wear steel-toed boots on airplanes?
Steel-toed boots are fine, according to the Transportation Security Administration. All he has to do is explain to security that he wears steel-toed boots.
If you want to avoid the hassle, you can put your boots in your carry-on or checked bag and not worry about it. That said, you shouldn't have any problems.
Does OSHA need steel-toed boots?
While the Occupational Safety and Health Administration has many rules and regulations, steel-toed boots are not necessarily a specific requirement.
According to OSHA, there is no OSHA regulation that specifically states that steel-toed boots are required for a specific profession.
However, OSHA requires that protective footwear be worn when people "work in areas where there is a risk of foot injury from falling or rolling objects or objects that pierce the soles" and in the event of an electrical hazard.
In other words, OSHA does not require anyone to wear steel-toed boots but does require that protective footwear be worn if there is a risk of injury. In a way, that means they are, but again, it also specifically means steel-toed boots.
You can stretch steel toe boots
Here we have a half-truth. It can stretch the leather of steel-toed boots, but it can't stretch the toe itself...or at least, not without a lot of effort!
It is of course possible to stretch boots and shoes and many shoemakers/shoe repairers offer it as a service. However, it's also true that if you need to stretch a pair of boots or work boots or whatever… you probably didn't get a pair that fits you, to begin with.
Stretching steel-toed boots might give you a little more room behind the toe box, but that'll be it.
Steel toe boots are not comfortable
Comfort is the Achilles heel of steel toe boots. The extra material takes up some space in the toe box. That means slightly less room for your toes to roam and less comfort.
That alone has led many people to ditch their boots before they are even nearly worn out.
That's why we recommend that you consider whether you really want steel insoles. It's one thing if you're forced to, and there are certain jobs where it's a really good idea to have them. But chances are you already know whether you need a safety stone or not. If you need a toe cap, we recommend getting custom boots for a good fit and comfort.
Then you already have a comfortable boot on to start with. Cheap work boots are also offered with steel toecaps, so adding a steel toecap to a boot that