Have you ever thought about how to tell if a shoe is non-slip? Maybe you have. But not most people know how you can easily figure out if the shoe is non-slip or not before purchasing.
That’s what we will be discussing below. Actually, there are some exclusive ways to figure it out.
Firstly, you can check the shoes by walking on slippery surfaces. But being time-consuming, it’s not always possible. So, look for rubber soles to get a better grip and balance. Besides, rounded soles offer better protection against wet grounds. Also, chances are that soles with deeper grooves will provide better safety and protection against the greasy ground.
Want to learn more in this regard? Then welcome to the elaborated interpretation below!
Though there are no specific standards for non-slip footwear according to OSHA (The Occupational Safety and Health Administration), shoes that offer ultimate grip and traction against slippery trails are known as slip-resistant shoes.
These shoes must be made of exclusive materials to offer better balance on wet surfaces. Experts particularly recommend slip-free shoes for those who stand on their feet for a long time. Especially if you work in a restaurant, professional anti-slip working shoes are an absolute must due to the slithery floors.
However, the key distinctions between regular and non-slip shoes are the anti-skid soles that work amazingly well against oil, water, and other liquids. Moreover, slip-free shoes are carefully architectured with patterned tread for traction.
Well, there are not many details in this regard. But you can use some common specifications as a checklist for anti-slip footwear.
Non-slip shoes are treated with special care to hold better against slippy, greasy, oily, and watery surfaces. The rubber soles are always dependable in this regard. And if it consists of a water-resistant upper then that would be counted as a big plus.
Let’s look forward to what key specifications make shoes labeled as non-slip:
Rubber Soles
Although rubber soles aren’t clearly declared as non-slip, they surely keep you slip-free on the ground. Basically, they are far better options than hard soles as hard-soled shoes trap water underneath.
On the contrary, rubber soles provide firmer grips by sticking to the surfaces better. So, you are well-protected from probable foot injuries.
Grooved Bottom
Another thing that makes the shoe slip-free is the groove in the sole. Usually, grooved soles don’t retain water and that’s why you get a better grip while walking or standing. Moreover, deeper grooves always benefit your feet with more flexibility.
Tread Patterns
Tread patterns are important while you are looking for non-slip footwear. Usually, anti-slip shoes come with versatile tread patterns such as circular, hexagonal, interlock, etc. The more treads are there, the better grip you will get.
Actually, the different shapes and patterns of the tread keep you steadier when your shoes encounter any liquid substances.
Materials
Always look for premium shoe-making materials as they ensure better safety on any surfaces, be it slippery or not. Shoes with premium rubber soles, Vibram soles, etc. are better known to provide ultimate slip-resistance.
Rounded Soles
You don’t want to fall on the greasy trails and end up in the hospital, right? Then look for shoes with rounded outsoles rather than flat ones. Because a flat sole locks water and moisture under it.
On the other hand, round edges push away any liquid to ensure excellent control and grip.
How to Tell if Shoes Are Non-Slip?
Now that you know the prime specifications of anti-slip shoes, you can easily specify them based on some common features. Let’s learn how you can check out non-slip shoes at the first glance right away!
- Read the manufacturers’ instructions properly. In most cases, it’s indicated whether the shoe is non-slip or not.
- Check carefully if the shoes have round or flat outsoles. Round soles scatter liquid substances and offer adequate control on the ground.
- If the shoes have unique tread patterns, it must be slip-resistant. And look for smaller patterns for steadier steps on the trail. Usually, the versatile tread patterns create more friction for fighting slips and falls.
- You must check whether the sole is soft, smooth, durable, and lightweight or not. A lightweight sole will offer ultimate flexibility which is much needed to avoid sudden foot injuries.
- If you are still not satisfied, check them yourself. Pour some soapy water, oil, or any other liquid on the floor. Now, walk over it wearing the shoes. The grip it offers answers all your queries.
How Effective Are Non-Slip Shoes?
If the non-slip shoes are well-made, they can significantly contribute to reducing slip injuries for outside workers, particularly for food service-related workers. A study shows that high-rated slip-resistant shoes can minimize up to 67% of slip injuries.
People working in restaurants, hospitals, medical sectors, gas stations, drilling stations, etc. need to walk on the slippery floors most of the time. So, they must wear something that is effective to prevent slips, trips, and falls (STFs).
So, if they can get the right shoes, they can help themselves avoid foot injuries to a considerable extent.
Final Words
While wrapping up the guide on how to tell if a shoe is non-slip or not, we would like to add a few more tips.
First, you need to check whether it’s specified as non-slip or not. Even if yes, you should check for reviews from other clients as well, especially in online purchases. Moreover, the versatile tread patterns, slightly rounded edge of the outsole, thicker pads, ultra grip snipe soles, etc. testify to the shoes being slip-resistant.
Nevertheless, non-slip shoes are not only recommended for your workplace but also for your home. Nobody wants to experience unnecessary medical bills due to slipping and falling on slobbery floors after all.
So, be sure to invest in professional-grade slip-resistant footwear and stay away from visiting hospitals.
Related post: How to Make Shoe Non-Slip for Work
