by Vanessa Punches, MS, LAT, ATC, CSCS, CES

When we think about safety on the job, we often focus on helmets, gloves, or safety goggles. But one essential piece of equipment that often gets overlooked is your footwear. Whether we’re working on construction sites, in warehouses, or in any field that demands physical labor, our shoes or boots are our first line of defense for our feet. But just like any other piece of equipment, they need regular checks to ensure they’re still up to the task.

Check Your Step

Our shoes do more than protect our feet from sharp objects or rough terrain. They provide critical support, stability, and cushioning that help prevent long-term damage to our body. Proper footwear reduces fatigue, prevents slips, and shields against puncture wounds and electrical hazards.

Over time, however, shoes break down. Neglecting a regular check can result in discomfort and injury. This can lead to decreased performance and, worse yet, put us at risk for trips, falls, or long-term musculoskeletal injuries.

Treading Lightly

Wear and tear on shoes happens gradually, which makes it easy to miss the signs until it’s too late. Here’s what to watch for:

• Poor fit: Once shoes lose their shape, they can’t hold our foot properly, increasing the risk of blisters, bunions, and fatigue.
• Worn-out soles: Less tread means less traction and a higher risk of slipping, especially on wet or uneven surfaces.
• Loss of cushioning: Without it, your feet absorb more shock, leading to discomfort, fatigue, and joint pain.
• Weakening structure: As shoes lose arch support, increased strain can lead to potential foot, ankle, or knee problems.

Each of these can create safety hazards that lead to injury and downtime. That’s why our shoes deserve a regular spot on our equipment checklist.

Check out more considerations for happy feet here!

Bad Feet, Bad Vibes

Our feet are the foundation of our body’s movement. When they are unsupported, it can lead to issues up the chain, affecting the ankles, knees, hips, and lower back.

Poor footwear can cause discomfort and contribute to long-term issues like joint pain or fatigue. This is why keeping our feet happy and supported is essential for overall body health, particularly for industrial athletes on their feet for long hours.

Sole Searching

One way to extend the life of your shoes and enhance their performance is by using Superfeet insoles. These insoles provide added arch support and cushioning, helping to reduce the impact on your feet and maintain proper alignment. Superfeet Work insoles not only support your feet but also help keep your shoes in better condition for a longer time, keeping you comfortable and safe. Ask your onsite Injury Prevention Specialist for more information or look for the RIGHT insole here.

Prevention Favors The Prepared

As we continue a focus on [E] Evaluating Our Equipment, don’t forget what’s carrying us through the day. A quick footwear check can go a long way in keeping you safe, supported, and a step ahead.

Vanessa Punches, MS, LAT, ATC, CSCS, CES || Vanessa graduated with her Bachelor’s degree in Athletic Training from Washington State University and her Master’s degree in Post-Professional Athletic Training from Texas State University. She is currently working on her doctorate from Purdue Global University in the hopes of one day teaching others how to become athletic trainers. Outside of work, Vanessa enjoys paddle boarding, crocheting, and looking for her dog, Waldo.

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Be sure to check out our other blogs for further injury prevention education and tips for the industrial athlete from Work Right NW!