When it comes to a long day on the tools, nothing is more important than the right pair of workwear shoes. Whether you work in a factory environment, a workshop or in the great outdoors, keeping your feet comfortable and protected is a must. And while many people fall into the trap of sourcing cheap and cheerful work boots, those savings on quality are a false economy.

The best workwear shoes are those that are designed to last and built to be durable against the elements and daily wear. At Westpeak New Zealand, we know a thing or two about a hard day’s work, and every pair of work boots and shoes we stock has to meet our high-quality control standards. If we wouldn’t put them on our own feet, we won’t put them on yours. 

Here’s everything you need to know about picking the right footwear to see you through whatever the workplace throws at you.

The Importance of the Right Workwear Shoes

Each year, more than 222,000 work-related injury claims are made to ACC and the majority of those come from the manufacturing industry and trades workers. Working in dangerous environments or around heavy machinery, things can go wrong in a split second, which is why protecting yourself is so important. 

In our Westpeak Work Footwear range, we stock protective footwear for every industry. From slip-on waterproof boots to lace-up steel caps and everything in between, we’ve got it covered. But with so many options, how do you know where to start? 

While it can be tempting to find one pair of boots that does it all, we recommend focusing on exactly what features you require to stay safe and comfortable and then investing in a quality pair that does the job well. While steel cap boots may have a great reputation as a solid work boot, they also add significant weight to the shoe, so they might not be a great choice if you’re constantly on the move and don’t need toe protection. 

Consider carefully what you need from your workwear shoes and shop accordingly.

Steel Cap vs Composite Toe Workwear Shoes

If you’re looking for footwear that offers superior toe protection, you’ve got two fantastic options in the form of steep cap and composite toe shoes. Not sure which is right for you? Here’s an overview of how they stack up.

Steel Cap Work Boots

Traditionally, steel cap shoes have been the go-to for people working in hazardous environments where heavy objects and machinery pose a threat to foot safety. These shoes feature a protective cap made of steel strategically placed to cover toes. Steel cap shoes are excellent at resisting impact and compression, making them an ideal choice for construction sites, warehouses, and industrial settings.

The John Bull Cougar 2.0 Slip On Steel Cap Safety Boot is a classic example of the traditional steel cap boot. 

Available in sizes 5-14.

Composite Toe Work Boots

Composite toe workwear shoes have gained popularity thanks to being a lightweight alternative to heavier steel options. Designed using a range of materials such as Kevlar, carbon fibre, or plastic, they offer similar protection with additional advantages. They are non-metallic, making them suitable for wear near electrical hazards and are also thermally insulating, keeping feet comfortable in both hot and cold conditions.

The Westpeak Aoraki Lace-Up Safety Boot has a composite toe that allows for lightweight and comfortable wear while still providing good toe protection. 

Available in sizes 6-13.

Slip-On vs Lace-Up Workwear Shoes

Another choice to make when selecting from our great range of footwear is whether to opt for slip-on or lace-up work shoes. Like steel vs composite, both have their own distinct advantages and disadvantages; the best work boot is the one that suits your role and personal preference. Below, you’ll see two great examples of our best-selling slip-on and lace-up styles from trusted workwear brand Blundstone.

Slip-On Workwear Shoes

Slip-on footwear is the ultimate in convenience. With no laces to slow you down, you can simply slide and go. The ease of taking these shoes on and off makes them ideal for workers who need to remove their shoes regularly and also for those with mobility issues. Available in both safety and non-safety versions, there are slip-on workwear shoes for every environment.

From the Blundstone Rotoflex range, these unisex Slip-On Work Boots feature water-resistant black leather and GRIPTEK® XHD ultra-durable outsole. Resistant to fuel, oil, abrasion, cut and slips, they’re also heat resistant to 300°C, making them a firm favourite in the world of work boots. 

Available in sizes 5-16.

Lace-Up Workwear Shoes

When a secure fit matters, you can’t go past a solid pair of lace-up work boots. Ensuring a tight and supportive fit throughout the day, laces allow you to adjust the tightness to your liking, so you can be confident your boots aren’t going anywhere. Lace-up work boots also provide ankle support, giving you greater stability. For extended walking or standing, lace-up work boots are the ideal choice.

Offering all the same resistance as their Slip-On counterparts, the Blundstone Rotoflex range of lace-up boots combines comfort with convenience. Seven rows of laces ensure a perfect fit across the foot and ankle, while a robust side zip allows for easy on and off. 

Available in sizes 5-16 and in a range of colours including wheat, stone, saddle brown and black.

Waterproof Workwear Shoes

Getting an honourable mention on our essential guide to workwear shoes are waterproof boots. Bridging the gap between work boots and gumboots, this footwear offers the best of both worlds, keeping your feet protected, comfortable and dry all day long. If you’re looking for the resilience of a rubber boot but the flexibility and fit of a work boot, a good pair of waterproof workwear shoes is the answer.

One of our top picks is the Magnum Strikeforce 8.0, which features a waterproof, breathable bootie membrane that keeps feet dry. The durable leather upper and Armourgel ankle protection provide strong support that you can rely on. Ideal for working outdoors or in wet conditions.

Westpeak Workwear for Shoes and Boots

Whatever you need to get the job done, Westpeak Workwear has you covered. Browse our full range of safety footwear online, or get in touch for advice on finding the right workwear shoes for you and your team.