Steel-toed work boots are the ultimate safety measure for your feet while you're working in construction zones or other potentially hazardous situations. Locating a pair of these work boots isn't difficult these days, with the wide variety available in department stores and online retailers. Yet finding and purchasing the right work footwear for your feet and occupation can be a bit more challenging. The steps below can help you make an informed decision.
1. Consider the work environment in which you'll be wearing your steel-toed boots, and tailor your search to match that environment. For example, if you work in a place with wet, slippery surfaces, you may opt for a pair that has thicker soles with lots of traction. If you work in a place where you'll be frequently required to walk through metal detectors, you may consider an alternative to steel-toed boots.

2. Check to make sure that the steel-toed boots you buy comply with the American Society for Testing and Materials (ASTM), which ensures a high standard of performance in safety boots. Shoes that are ASTM certified should have a clear marking mentioning this qualification, whether the label is stitched in or stamped on.

3. Try out different pairs of steel-toed boots that meet the above requirements, checking for proper fit. There should be some wiggle room in the toe of the boot, yet a snug fit overall. Walk around in each pair you try on and leave them on for a few minutes if possible. Consider yourself ready to purchase when you've found the pair that is the most comfortable after a few moments of wear. Remember, you'll be wearing the boots for a long period of time.