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Wear | November 2022

The benefits of composite toe protection in work boots

black argyle zip work boots

Whether you’re in construction, manufacturing, mining or logistics, steel cap boots are likely the first thing that comes to mind when thinking of PPE.

Every tradesperson knows the importance of toe protection. 

But it’s increasingly common for “steel cap” boots to feature composite toe protection in place of hardened steel. 

So, what is composite toe protection? And how does it stack up against steel?

What are composite toe boots?

Composite work boots are a great PPE innovation that uses non-metallic materials, such as fibreglass.

Men’s and women’s steel toe boots have long been the industry standard. They’re not going anywhere.

Instead, we created Steel Blue composite toe boots to give hardworking men and women more flexibility and greater choice in safety footwear. We’ve got the work boots to help you excel no matter the conditions.

Steel cap vs composite toe boots: Side-by-side comparison

Steel Blue steel cap boots

Steel Blue composite toe boots

Drop force protection 200J 200J
Rolling force protection 15kN 15kN
Compression resistant Yes Yes
Puncture resistance Yes No
Cut resistance Yes No
Non-conductive No Yes
Weight Light Very light
Corrosion resistant Yes Yes
Insulation Medium High
Airport friendly No Yes
Standards compliance
  • Australian and New Zealand Safety Footwear Standard AS 2210.3
  • International and European Safety Footwear Certification EN ISO 20345
  • American Safety Footwear Certification ASTM F2413
  • Australian and New Zealand Safety Footwear Standard AS 2210.3
  • International and European Safety Footwear Certification EN ISO 20345
  • American Safety Footwear Certification ASTM F2413

There’s no clear winner when it comes to toe protection on the job. 

Both boot types are designed to handle whatever comes your way. Both are engineered to exceed international safety standards. Both provide protection against dropped objects, hidden hazards, and compression. 

It all comes down to your working conditions.

NZ composite work boots

Who can benefit from composite toe boots?

Steel Blue composite boots are built to work just about anywhere. 

In particular, you might prefer composite toe boots if you pass through security scanners or want a lighter work boot that moves with you.

Mobile workers

Our steel cap boots are lightweight – but composite toe protection is even lighter. For people who need protection on the move, every weight reduction helps.

  • Warehouse and logistics
  • Construction*
  • Truck drivers 
  • Mechanics
  • Plumbers
  • Emergency services
  • Police
  • SES

Steel Blue composite toe boots are designed for the ultimate comfort and protection. The toe box fits snugly, and our trademark Trisole® Comfort Technology supports whole-body health while you move.

In addition, Steel Blue men’s and women’s boots are available in half sizes, so you can always find the perfect fit. 

*We recommend steel cap boots and penetration-resistant outsoles for work involving nail guns, power saws and other puncture or cut risks. 

FIFO workers and frequent travellers

Composite toe protection is non-metallic and non-conductive. You’re free to pass through x-ray machines without worrying about setting off the sensors.

Together with the lightweight comfort and safety compliance, this makes composite toe boots great for:

  • Remote mine work
  • Oil and gas
  • Resources exploration
  • Engineering
  • Geology
  • High-security sites

From airports to inner-city offices, security scanners won’t slow you down when you leave the steel caps at home and choose composite toe protection.

black argyle zip composite work boot

General trades

Because composite toe protection is non-conductive and resistant to rust, it’s an excellent choice for wet weather work. Plus, composite material is a highly effective insulator in hot and cold conditions.

  • Earthmoving
  • Agriculture
  • Landscaping
  • Logging
  • Transport and logistics
  • Working in nature
  • Building and renovations+

Many tradies invest in a second pair of composite boots so they’re fully equipped for all conditions. 

+Electricians, Plumbers and tradespeople working around live electricity should choose Electrical Hazard outsoles for added protection against shocks.

Where to find composite boots

Steel Blue’s steel toe boots and composite boots are available exclusively at authorised stockists around the country.

Find your nearest store to experience the lightweight protection of composite toe boots for yourself.

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