Safety shoes S3

What does S3 mean?

S3 is a safety class from the EN ISO 20345 standard for safety footwear. An S3 shoe always has:

a protective toe cap that absorbs a 200-joule impact (steel or composite)
a penetration-resistant midsole, so a nail or shard can't come through the sole
a water-repellent upper (WRU), tested for water penetration of the leather or textile
an anti-static construction, an energy-absorbing heel and an oil- and petrol-resistant, profiled sole

In short: S3 is S1P plus water-repellency. If you work exclusively indoors and dry, S1P is often sufficient. If you stand in water or mud, look at S4 or S5 boots.

S3, S3S and S3L: what's changed?

Since the 2022 revision of EN ISO 20345, new designations have been added. The classic S3 has a metal penetration-resistant plate, tested with a 4.5 mm nail. S3S and S3L use a non-metal (textile) insert, tested with a thinner nail: 4.5 mm for S3L and 3.0 mm for S3S. An S3S shoe is therefore more finely protected against thin, sharp objects, is lighter and doesn't conduct cold. Both variants are fully certified; which you choose depends on your terrain and your weight preference.

Steel or composite toe cap?

A steel toe cap is cheaper and very robust, but heavier and conducts cold. A plastic composite toe cap is lighter, doesn't conduct heat or cold and is metal-free – handy for security scanners, in the food industry or for electrical work. Both offer the same protection value: 200 joules.

High or low?

Low shoes are lighter and more breathable and work nicely on flat, stable ground.
High shoes support the ankle, keep out dirt and water better and are the standard on construction sites and uneven terrain.
For extra support and quick on/off, there are boots and models with a BOA-style dial closure.

The right size and fit

Measure your foot at the end of the day, when it's at its largest, and leave about a centimetre of room for your toes. Try on the shoe with the socks you wear at work. If a model feels too narrow or too wide, look at a version with a wider last or a different insole – a well-fitting shoe prevents pressure points, and pressure points are the main reason people take off their safety shoes. Also check out our work socks and insoles and accessories.

Ordering S3 work shoes at Total Protex

All our S3 shoes are CE certified and come with the corresponding declaration of conformity. Ordering for a whole team? Request a business account: you'll then order on account and get sharper prices for larger quantities. If you're unsure about size, class or sole type, we're happy to help with tailored advice.

Veelgestelde vragen

What's the difference between S1P and S3?

S1P and S3 both have a protective toe cap and a penetration-resistant sole. The difference is in the upper: with S3 it's water-repellent, with S1P it isn't. S1P is therefore intended for dry indoor environments, S3 for outdoor work, construction and wet or dirty conditions.

Are S3 work shoes waterproof?

S3 means water-repellent, not fully waterproof. The upper barely lets water through during a test period, but standing in water or mud for a long time will still fill up the shoe. If you really need to walk through water, choose an S4 or S5 boot, or an S3 model with a waterproof membrane.

How often should I replace safety shoes?

There's no legal timeframe, but in practice a pair lasts about six to twelve months with daily use. Replace sooner if the tread is worn down, the toe cap is visibly damaged, the sole is coming loose, or the shoe's protection has taken a heavy impact or penetration – the toe cap and midsole may no longer be reliable after that.

Can my employer require me to wear S3 shoes?

Yes. Based on the risk assessment (RI&E), the employer determines which personal protective equipment is needed, provides it free of charge, and monitors its use. The employee is required to wear the prescribed PPE.

What does the SRC or ESD addition on a work shoe mean?

Under the old standard, SRC indicated that the sole was tested for slip resistance on both ceramic tiles with a soap solution and on steel with glycerol. In the revised 2022 standard, slip resistance is a standard part of the basic requirement and you'll see designations like SR. ESD means the shoe has a controlled, low electrical resistance and is suitable for ESD-safe workplaces, for example in electronics.

Can I use my own insole in an S3 shoe?

Only if that replacement is permitted by the manufacturer. A safety shoe is tested and certified including the insole it comes with; a different insole can affect the fit, the anti-static properties and the height of the toe protection. If you need orthotic insoles, choose a model approved for that or ask us for advice.

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