Buying Guide 2024: 5 Best Safety Shoes to Buy in Singapore

Written by The Best Singapore Editors | January 08, 2024

Safety is a must in certain jobs like construction, manufacturing, and electrical. Accidents can happen, but the right protective gear can help prevent injuries. Safety shoes prevent workplace injury for feet and provide benefits like better traction and support for those long shifts.

Buying safety shoes for work requires research and deliberation because you want to get reliable shoes and not waste your money. After all, these shoes can be expensive. If you’re looking for the best safety shoes in Singapore, we’ve made your decision easier by finding the top five choices [2024 review].

But before we get to the list, it’s important to talk about safety shoes, their benefits, and what you should consider when buying them.

Safety Shoe Types

Safety shoes are typically of two types: boots and trainers. Safety boots are more common as they have a high-top or mid-cut top that adds protection for ankles.

Safety trainers have a more casual look and lean more towards comfort, making them ideal for tradesmen or delivery drivers, who travel for work often and spend less time in dangerous conditions. However, as casual as they may look, these are not like average trainers and are equipped with safety features.

On the other hand, safety boots are sturdier and often have more safety features meeting international standards set for safety shoes. These are suitable for construction, metalwork, electrical work, operating heavy machinery, and working with hydrocarbons or chemicals.

Safety Shoe Features to Look For

This is the most important consideration because the features of the shoes will tell you how safe, reliable, and comfortable the shoes are. There are various safety features in these shoes. Not every model may have all of them. However, the more safety features there are, the safer the shoe will be.

Here are the main features to look out for:

Slip-Resistant Outsole: Safety shoes feature slip-resistant outsole, typically made of rubber, that can provide traction on different surfaces, including wet or oily, and prevent falls. It should ideally be tested for slip resistance.
Steel toe cap: This is a common feature in safety shoes but is still worth paying attention to. The steel toe cap can withstand impact, for example, a heavy object falling on the foot.
Shock absorption: The outsole, midsole, or insole should offer a high level of shock absorption. This depends on the material the sole is made from and the amount of cushioning.
Comfortable insole: The insole on most safety shoes is removable. It should provide arch support, especially if you’re on your feet for most of the day.
Durable, breathable upper: The upper may be made from leather or synthetic materials. Both materials can provide adequate protection if they are high quality. Overall, the upper should be durable and offer some breathability for air circulation.
Waterproofing: Not all shoes are waterproof, so if you work outdoors and need them, make sure they are labeled as waterproof. Waterproof shoes have water-resistant uppers and sealed seams and joints.
Anti-static: If you work with electricity outdoors or indoors, the shoes should be anti-static (prevent electric shock).

Safety Shoe Standards

There are standards for safety shoes that ensure that the shoes comply with the requirements and have been tested for them. This is an easy way to ensure you’re buying reliable safety boots.

The standard for work safety shoes followed globally, including in Singapore, is ISO 20345. According to this standard, all safety shoes must have impact protection of at least 200 joules force (20 kg weight dropped from 1.02 meters) and compression resistance of at least 15 KN (1.5 tonnes).

Under the ISO 20345 standard, there are different categories, depending on the features and protection they provide. These include S1, S1P, S2, S3, S4, and S5.

1. Sketchers Work 77013 Composite Toe Safety Shoes

Image: HardwareCity

Best for
Slippery surfaces
Brand
Sketchers
Model
Work 77013
Price
S$109.90
Shop now
HardwareCity

Sketchers Work 77012 Composite Toe Safety Shoes are technical safety shoes for men, with a thick shock-absorbing midsole, sturdy upper, and composite toe, meeting several international safety standards. The brand is known for its comfy trainers, so you can expect the same comfort level in these work shoes. The memory foam cushioned insole and soft fabric lining provide comfort all day while the strong upper protects the feet from impact.

Unlike most safety boots, these Sketchers Work boots have a great design with paneled upper and design details. The upper is made of oiled suede, synthetic fabric, and ripstop mesh panels for breathability. Its fit is relaxed, so your toes have room for movement without compromising safety. The outsole is crafted from nitrile rubber, which offers great traction over slippery surfaces.

These are suitable for various work environments, including electrical, construction, cleaning, and manufacturing. And their look can easily go from work to casual use.

HIGHLIGHT FEATURES:

Meets SS513 Singapore Standards
Removable soft Air-Cool insole
Composite safety toe (rated for ASTM F2412/2413-2011 I/75 C/75 protection)
Slip-resistant outsole (ASTM F1677-96 Mark II tested)
Stabilised, shock-absorbing midsole
Suede and synthetic upper with reinforced stitching accents
Side stripe overlays
Relaxed, wide fit
Black color

2. uvex 8545 Lace-Up Safety Boots

Image: Durasafe

Best for
Comfort
Brand
uvex
Model
8545
Price
S$250
Shop now
Durasafe

The uvex 8545 Lace-Up Safety Boots are German-made class S1 and S2 safety shoes made with high-quality synthetic materials. It features the uvex xenova metal-free toe cap with an anatomical shape and reliable stability. The sole is thick and sturdy without adding too much weight to the shoe. So these safety boots are lightweight and suitable for long work shifts.

The dual-density PU outsole is anti-slip, perfect for wet conditions. The anti-static insole is comfy and removable for easy cleaning or replacement. It’s gentle on the foot from the inside as the upper is made from a soft yet sturdy micro velour fabric. There are no seams in the upper as it’s constructed from a single large panel, with padding on the collar and tongue for added comfort.

The boots come with two types of laces: normal woven and elastic laces for quick adjustment. These boots are a result of innovative design and research on the physiology of the feet. If you’re looking for work safety shoes that don’t take a toll on your feet, the ergonomic design of these Uvex boots is the answer.

HIGHLIGHT FEATURES:

S1/S2 safety class shoes
Meet ESD specifications
No plasticizers or silicones in construction materials
PU outsole with slip resistance
Compact toe cap
Breathable upper material
Removable in-sole with shock absorption
Made in Germany

3. Timberland PRO Pit Boss 6-Inch Steel Toe Work Boot

Image: Timberland

Best for
Construction and electrical work
Brand
Timberland
Model
Direct Attach 6-Inch Steel Toe
Price
S$120 to S$161
Shop now
Amazon

Timberland is known for its rugged boots, and this Timberland PRO Pit Boss Work Boot proves why the brand is the go-to for safety shoes in many industries. Their line of PRO work shoes is built to last a long time, provide reliable safety, and be comfortable even for long durations. This model has an anti-fatigue footbed that absorbs shocks and fits the heel ergonomically. The outsole is anti-slip with a strong grip, even on wet or oily floors. These can be used on various terrains, so they are best for outdoor workers.

These boots feature a steel toe, which can readily withstand abrasion and impact. So it’s suitable for work in heavy industry and warehouses. The craftsmanship is unparalleled as these are made from premium-quality materials. You can expect these to last a lifetime, even with regular use.

With ample padding around the collars, these boots offer extra protection around the ankles. And the 24/7 Comfort Suspension technology ensures that every step is comfortable. There’s adequate cushioning to absorb impact and provide arch support. Available in multiple colours, these are waterproof, thanks to the leather upper and sealed seams. Furthermore, the lining is breathable and antimicrobial to prevent odour.

HIGHLIGHT FEATURES:

Anti-fatigue technology footbed
Seam-sealed waterproof
Electrical hazard protection
Timberland PRO rubber outsole
Insulation
Contoured shock-diffusion plate
Steel safety toe
Slip-resistant, abrasion-resistant
Soft lining and padded collars
Thick, durable laces

4. Caterpillar Navigator Mid-Cut Steel Toe Safety Boots

Image: HardwareCity

Best for
Full foot and ankle protection
Brand
Caterpillar
Model
Navigator Mid-Cut Steel Toe P90614
Price
S$219
Shop now
HardwareCity

The Caterpillar Navigator Mid-Cut Steel Toe Safety Boots (P90614) are made of leather, which is water-resistant. The steel toe cap protects from sharp objects and impact, preventing foot injury in risky work environments like steelwork facilities, construction sites, or warehouses. The mid-cut extends protection from the heels to the ankles.

The full-grain leather upper is waterproof, so come rain or shine, the work doesn’t stop. On the inside of the shoe, you’ll find nylon mesh lining, which is lightweight, soft, and breathable. It also wicks moisture, preventing bad odour. The insole is made of dual-density EVA, designed to provide maximum comfort for those who have to stand or walk at work for hours, for example, drivers, delivery staff, or construction workers.

The slip-resistant outsole prevents provides traction on low-traction surfaces. Furthermore, the steel toe cap is rated for electrical hazard protection. Caterpillar footwear is a trustable name in personal protective equipment (PPE), so you can be sure about the quality and standard. These may also work for recreational activities like hikes.

HIGHLIGHT FEATURES:

Rated for ASTM F2413-11 1/75 C/75 (Impact and compression protection)
Rated for ASTM F2413-05 1/75 EH (Electrical hazard protection)
Waterproof leather upper
EVA insole
Rubber outsole with anti-slip grooves
Molded EVA midsole
Padded shoulder
High-top lace-up design
Nylon mesh lining
Nylon shank for stability
SRX slip-resistant outsole
Nubuck colour

5. Safety Jogger Dakar S3 Safety Shoes

Image: Safety Jogger

Best for
Construction/oil field
Brand
Safety Jogger
Model
Dakar S3
Price
S$62 to S$65
Shop now
Shopee

Safety Jogger Dakar S3 Safety Shoes come from the Belgian brand Safety Jogger that has sold over 32 million shoes worldwide. These safety boots from the brand offer an affordable alternative to other pricier brands without compromising on quality or safety. These feature a steel toe cap, puncture-proof and slip-resistant sole.

The paneled construction of the upper also features mesh panels that increase breathability. The best thing about these shoes is the natural arch support. They support the natural contours of the foot seamlessly. On the collars, there’s plenty of padding for comfort and support. These can be used on construction sites, oil/gas fields, or manufacturing plants, meeting the safety requirements set in Singapore and many other countries.

The look of these safety boots is simple but stylish. For instance, the grommets for the lacing elevate the shoes and give them a more casual look while also increasing lace support. These can also be worn off-site, as they can pair well with casual clothing.

HIGHLIGHT FEATURES: