Good quality safety shoes: how to choose?

In today’s manufacturing, logistics, catering and maintenance environments, footwear is no longer just part of the work uniform. They have become a full-fledged element of the safety system. This is especially true in countries with high labour protection standards, such as the United Arab Emirates. Here, the level of requirements for protective equipment at industrial, construction and warehouse sites is much higher than in most parts of the world. That is why the question of selecting the optimum protective footwear becomes a priority. Quality work shoes are a decisive factor for health, efficiency and professional image.

At TALAN, a factory specialising in safety footwear, we create solutions for your business. Solutions that work in real conditions. Solutions that protect people. In this article, we detail how to choose truly reliable footwear that takes into account all the risks and features of your UAE business.

Why the degree of protection of work shoes is so important

Many people mistakenly believe that reinforced shoes are only needed on construction sites. In reality, however, protection is required in many areas:

In warehouses and logistics centres where there is a high risk of falling loads.
In industrial facilities with chemically active substances.
In the food industry where there is high humidity and slippery surfaces.
In the maintenance industry, where stability, anti-static and thermal protection are important.

A good degree of protection is not just about a metal sole. From the quality of the sole to the durability of the upper, from moisture resistance to the anti-puncture insole. This comprehensive protection is the basis of TALAN products.

Key elements of safety footwear: what to look out for?

Each element of safety footwear plays an important role in ensuring safety and comfort during work. Let’s take a look at the main components that you should pay attention to when choosing a really reliable pair.

Footbed: metal or composite. The sole is the first shield for your toes. It protects against impact and pressure. At TALAN, we offer both classic metal underpads that can withstand loads of up to 200 Joules and lightweight composite versions that do not conduct heat and are lighter in weight. They are particularly comfortable in the hot climate of the UAE.

Anti-puncture insole. If you work on sites where nails, splinters, sharp tools are possible, you cannot do without anti-puncture protection. Our shoes use insoles made of Kevlar or steel. They can easily cope with vertical loads and do not reduce the flexibility of the sole.
Outsole: anti-slip and resistant to aggressive environments. The SRC sole is a must. It provides grip on wet, greasy and smooth surfaces. This is especially important in warehouses, restaurants and service stations.
Depending on the model, we also add to the sole such qualities as resistance to oils, acids, thermal effects (up to 300°C briefly).
Upper made of durable and breathable materials. Natural leather, synthetic composites, textiles with waterproof impregnation – all of these are used in our protective footwear models. We know that it’s critical for footwear to keep its shape, stay dry and breathe. In the hot climate of the UAE, this is a necessity.
Cushioning and support for the foot. Working on your feet for long periods of time is a challenge for your spine, joints and muscles. That’s why we introduce anatomical insoles, anti-shock inserts and supinators. The load on the feet is distributed evenly, fatigue is reduced, and the risk of injury is minimised.

How do I choose footwear depending on the type of work?

For footwear to really protect, it must be adapted to the type of activity. We recommend taking this factor into account at the selection stage. Our recommendations are:

For construction and manufacturing. We recommend models with a metal underfoot, anti-puncture insole, heat-resistant sole and leather upper. The Talan elite and Talan premium ranges are ideal.
For logistics and warehouses. Lightweight models with composite underfoot, flexible soles and cushioning are ideal. Mobility and comfort are important here.
For kitchens and food processing plants. These should be shoes with a water-repellent upper, SRC sole and closed mould. Talan’s AIRFlex series are suitable.
For service technicians and engineers. Lightweight, versatile footwear with anti-static and resistance to aggressive liquids.

Why is Talan a guarantee of reliability?

Because we have been manufacturing protective work shoes for 100 years. We are experts in safety. Our TALAN factory develops shoes that comply with European standards (EN ISO 20345, EN ISO 20347) but adapted to the climate and peculiarities of the Middle East. All our products undergo:

Laboratory tests for strength, bending, wear and tear.
Field tests in real conditions.
Evaluation of comfort and hygiene.

Our customers in Dubai, Abu Dhabi and Sharjah include construction companies, hotel chains, logistics operators and manufacturing companies. And they all choose TALAN safety shoes. That’s because we know how to combine protection, comfort and reliability in every pair.

How do you know if a shoe is truly protective?

Sometimes shoes may appear to be reliable on the outside but may not be up to standard. There are several features that you should pay attention to when selecting safety footwear:

Markings S1, S2, S3, SRC, HRO – these are official protection classes.
Availability of technical data sheet and operating instructions.
Proven manufacturers with a history and reputation like Talan.
Testimonials from other companies and the opportunity to test models live.

Don’t skimp on your protection

Footwear is an important element of your safety, part of your health and safety system, your health and confidence in every step you take. A poorly fitting pair can lead to injury, sick leave, fines from inspections and reputational problems. A well-fitting pair, on the other hand, can prevent all of that.

At Talan, we know that shoes with a good degree of protection should work like armour – discreetly but reliably. Choose shoes that will protect you. Choose TALAN. If you find it difficult to choose the right model of safety footwear yourself, we will find the best solution for your UAE business. Contact us and we will ensure that all your work footwear selection and supply needs are met!