Whether you’re a package delivery driver or a long-haul, over-the-road (OTR) trucker putting on mile after mile, keeping the wheels turning is critical to keeping the money flowing. If you’re thinking about how miserable your feet are, it can be an awfully long day. Worse yet, you might be distracted, putting yourself, your load and others at risk.
When selecting a boot for truck driving, the work boot experts at Irish Setter recommend considering the following factors.
- Safety features of your boots
- Amount of time in and out of the truck
- Fit and comfort
- Warmth, waterproofing, breathability
- Style and boot materials
SAFETY
When it comes to professional truck driving, safety is the number one priority. When you’re moving 80,000 pounds at 60 mph, ensuring that you’re safe, your load is safe and other drivers are safe, is all that matters.
But as any driver knows, safety extends to truck stops, the loading yard, the warehouse, and the terminal. When you’re moving in and around trucks and docks, or driving a refrigerated truck where you handle the unloading, there are all sorts of hazards for your feet.
That’s why you should consider boots with a safety toe and grippy rubber sole that meet ATSM safety standards, such as Irish Setter Rockford work boots. Even if your company doesn’t require safety features like a safety toe, it’s still a safe bet for your feet you shouldn’t ignore.
TIME IN AND OUT OF THE TRUCK
Another factor to consider is how much time you spend getting in and out of your truck each day. If you’re making local deliveries, and you’re getting out of a delivery van multiple times every hour, you may want to consider a lighter weight boot such as the Afton from Irish Setter. Afton boots offer the perfect combination of a durable work boot that feels like a flexible hiking boot on your feet.
On the other hand, if you spend the majority of your day behind the wheel, boots that allow your feet to breathe and fit comfortably from the moment you put them on may be the best choice. That’s where a lighter boot can make the difference – offering out-of-the-box comfort like running shoes, but with the durability and safety features required for loading and unloading trucks.
DETERMINE THE RIGHT FIT
Some boots offer comfort right out of the box. Other boots, such as those made with high quality leather, can require a short break-in period to feel really comfortable.
The key is to choose work boots that help you keep your energy up and reduce the chances of experiencing foot discomfort or blisters as you drive long miles.
You’ll want to consider that, as you wear your boots throughout the day, your feet actually swell — sometimes up to a full size larger than when you got out of bed in your sleeper. That’s because as you’re walking, your feet flatten and lengthen. So, for example, if you normally wear a size 9 in casual shoes, you may want to consider a size 9-1/2 in work boots, depending on how much walking you do.
When you shop for boots at your local retailer, try them on late in the afternoon, when your feet are their largest. Look for a snug fit around the ankle, heel (no slipping) and instep. You should also be able to easily wiggle your toes.
The other part of the equation is socks. When trying on boots, consider wearing moisture-wicking socks of the appropriate length for the boot height you’re considering. This type of sock will help your feet stay dry throughout the day and keep your feet energized while avoiding blisters. Avoid wearing cotton athletic socks with work boots, as cotton retains moisture instead of wicking it away.
WARMTH, WATERPROOFING, BREATHABILITY
If you’re moving loads across the country, it’s not uncommon to find yourself in pleasant 60 degree weather in Missouri in the morning and stepping into Minnesota snow a few hours later. And then there are those brave souls who know the treachery of driving across the Rockies between September and May.
If that’s you, you should consider an insulated, waterproof leather boot with all of the features of a Swiss Army knife — a boot that keeps your feet dry while providing the warmth you need if you find yourself out in the elements and the breathability to keep your feet dry.
STABILITY
What is one of the leading causes of injury for a truck driver? It’s actually not injuries caused by being in an accident. Instead, most truck driver injuries result from getting in and out of their cab, slipping or falling on ice, or stepping awkwardly into potholes or onto rocks in the loading yard.
In other words, as you’re selecting a pair of work boots, don’t overlook the soles, which provide traction, shock absorption, lateral stability and underfoot comfort. Balance your need for flexibility on uneven terrain with durability and sure footing over the long haul. Sole tread pattern and lug shape are critical considerations. A shallow tread limits mud and debris accumulation. A deeper, more aggressive tread pattern may be needed for more rugged terrain or for traction in snow and ice.
FIT, STYLE, AND COMFORT
Let’s face it, for some drivers, looking the part of a classic long-haul driver is just as important as doing the job. For them, the only boot that they’ll consider is a Western-style pull-on boot. To look good and be safe, Western-style work boots such as the Marshall from Irish Setter fit the bill. They come in safety and soft toe styles and feature a rubber sole and rugged full-grain leather. And they meet ATSM safety standards for protection you can count on. Marshall boots not only look great with classic Western styling, they fit well and offer the all-day-comfort that Irish Setter boots are known for.
BUY FOR THE LONG-TERM
Today’s professional truck drivers have many boot options to choose from — as many options as there are types of drivers. Whether it’s local delivery, dry van, flat bed, hotshot, LTL freight, hazmat, refrigerator or OTR, there’s a boot to meet the specific needs of your job. As you look into your options, don’t skimp. Your feet are critical to your success. From working the pedals to conducting vehicle inspections, you need boots that help you go all day. Make an investment in yourself and buy quality boots that will protect your feet mile after mile.
LEARN MORE
To learn more about Irish Setter boots for truck driving, visit irishsetterboots.com or stop by your nearest Irish Setter retailer.