Footwear Standards

Safety Footwear Standard: EN ISO 20345:2011

Safety Footwear Standard: EN ISO 20345:2022

Additional Requirements

Safety Footwear Glossary

Collar: The top part of the boot’s quarter, often padded for comfort around the ankle.

Counter: A stiff piece of material at the back of the boot, around the heel area, that helps maintain the shape of the boot and provides support to the heel.

Eyelets: Small holes or loops through which the laces are threaded, allowing the boot to be tightened and secured.

Heel: The rear part of the outsole that elevates the back of the foot. It varies in height and shape depending on the boot style.

Insole: The internal part of the boot on which the foot rests, often cushioned for comfort and support.

Laces: The cords or strings used to secure the boot around the foot.

Midsole: The layer between the insole and outsole that provides cushioning, support, and shock absorption. It's often made from foam or a similar material.

Outsole: The bottom part of the boot that makes contact with the ground. It's made from rubber or other durable materials and often has a tread pattern for grip.

Pull Tab: A loop or tab on the back of the boot to help pull it on more easily.

Quarter: The rear and sides of the upper that wrap around the heel. The quarters meet the vamp in the front part of the boot.

Shank: A piece of metal or other rigid material embedded in the boot’s sole to provide support to the arch of the foot.

Toe Box: The front part of the boot that provides space and protection for the toes. It can be reinforced for added protection.

Toe Cap: An additional layer of material on the outside of the toe box, often for decorative purposes or to provide extra protection and durability.

Tongue: A strip of material under the laces, often padded for comfort, that prevents the laces from rubbing against the foot and keeps debris out of the boot.

Upper: The upper part of the boot that covers the foot and is usually made from leather, synthetic materials, or fabric. It includes several components such as the toe box, quarter, vamp, and eyelets.

Vamp: The section of the upper that covers the front part of the foot up to the toe.

Welt: A strip of material that joins the upper to the sole. In some boots, the welt can be a key feature in waterproofing and resoling.