There can be uneven terrain when responding to calls in residential and city areas. There are alleys with old pavement, rocky driveways, yards with holes and even maneuvering steps can require extra ankle support at times. EMTs in both rural and urban areas are frequently at risk for ankle sprains and strains. If you can do that in 6 inch duty boots and those are what you like, than buy a shorter boot.
Another benefit of the taller EMS boot style is that rain water usually has a harder time dripping in through the top of the boot. Do you want waterproof duty boots? It seems obvious that everyone will want their EMS boots to be waterproof. So why is this even a question? Because keeping water out will also tend to keep heat and moisture in. You want work boots that stop moisture from coming in but allow moisture to escape out.
Technology has come a long way and waterproof tactical boots have pretty good breathability now, but there are limits. If you are working hard and creating a lot of heat and sweat, some waterproof boots will make your feet hot, trapping the heat and sweat more than other EMS boots. For this reason, EMTs working in hot and dry climates may not want to wear waterproof boots all year-long. The ability to let out heat and sweat is often referred to as moisture wicking, freshness or breathability when discussing duty boots.
EMTs and paramedics in cold weather, rain and wet snow conditions should be willing to trade some breathability to have truly waterproof EMS boots. After all, finishing out a 24 hour shift with wet socks not only sucks, it puts you at risk for trench foot.
Having EMT boots with a zipper or other quick release device is great. The side or front zipper allows first responders to tie the boot ahead of time and then zip to get the boots on and off quickly.
This feature is great at night because it allows you to wake up, throw on your boots, and go when responding to calls. The only downside to the side zipper is that it can be the first thing to fail on a pair of EMT boots. This is not always the case, but it does make some people hesitant to purchase side zip boots. For me, the convenience and usefulness of the side zipper is worth the risk.
However, if you are concerned about the zipper failing there are a couple of options available. A good option is to buy the regular style of the EMS boots and then purchase a zip kit which allows you to tie a front zipper into your boots. This option allows you to have a zip up work boot without fear of the zipper failing.
The second option is to plan on repairing the zipper if it breaks and the shoe is still in good shape. Overall, front and side zippers are great for EMTs because they allow you to get your EMS boots on and off in a matter of seconds. I highly recommend trying them out if you have never had a pair. Traction is an important safety issue for many EMS workers and should be considered when buying a pair of boots.
Anyone working in icy conditions, on slippery surfaces or in wet wilderness will need to seriously consider traction. A pair of EMS boots with bad traction will slow you down and take your concentration away from providing quality patient care. EMTs and paramedics need to feel confident transporting patients down sloping terrain and on wet surfaces, without falling.
The answer is not to get EMT boots with a deeper tread. High quality EMS boots are slip resistant and often will have passed slip resistance safety testing. The truth is most boots will have a problem in truly icy conditions , but good duty boots can handle bad weather conditions, wet leaves and many are even oil resistant.
Traction is one of those areas where you often feel the difference between high quality and cheap EMT boots. Comfort matters! With the long shifts and so much time spent on your feet, having comfortable duty boots feels great. In fact, when buying EMT boots you are frequently paying for comfort. Most people will usually feel the difference between a lower cost boot from Walmart and a name brand pair of duty boots.
Some brands have begun adding gel insoles to their EMS boots for additional comfort. Adding a great pair of comfort insoles can improve how duty boots feel on your feet. I would like all my socks and uniforms to have this standard too please.
BBP resistance means the boots have a lining which resists blood borne pathogens. Blood borne pathogen resistance is useful for EMTs and paramedics because they are frequently dealing with patient body fluids. Now if only they could make EMT boots that deflect vomit. Does your job or school have any policies that you need to consider when purchasing duty boots?
Some examples of requirements are: steel toe boots, black EMT boots, and EMS boots that can be polished to a high shine. Make sure you know if there are any agency policies about duty boots before making a purchase. Personally, I always purchase black boots to cover any stains caused by splashed body fluids.
All of the boots on my list are black for this reason, but some of them are available in other colors. Do you want to polish your EMS boots? For many first responders this is not an important factor when choosing a boot. Nobody wants to buy EMS boots and have to return them due to a polishing issue.
Another significant decision to make when purchasing EMS boots is what kind of toe do you want? Some agencies will mandate first responders to wear a steel toe boot for the extra toe protection. Know whether your employer has policy requirements before purchasing duty boots. If you want extra toe protection you can get a steel toe boot or a composite toe instead of a regular boot toe. Many EMS personnel would never buy a boot without having proper toe protection.
If you are at risk for heavy objects falling on your feet or are worried about the stretcher running over your toes, than you should consider a reinforced toe box. Over a 12 or 24 hour shift this weight can contribute to foot fatigue and overall tiredness. Here is a quick run down on the pros and cons of steel toe and composite toe boots. High quality boots have a number of safety features available that help keep first responders safe while working in the field. Here are some common tests that first responders will be interested in while shopping for EMS boots.
Electrical Hazard EH footwear is made to reduce electrical injuries from accidental contact live electricity. EMS boots with an EH rating have non-conductive, electrical shock-resistant heels and soles that can withstand the application of 18,V at 60 Hz for one minute without any current flow or leakage current exceeding one millampere mA. This is done under dry conditions.
Steel plate boots will not pass EH standards. Having EMT boots that are EH rated is beneficial to EMS because electricity can travel through the ground making many situations dangerous for first responders.
Puncture-resistant PR footwear is made to protect your feet from items you step on that can puncture the bottom of the shoe and injure your feet. Get a pair that are blood born pathogen resistant.
No sense standing if fluids and having your feet get all nasty. Waterproof resistant is not the same as BBP resistant. Several manufacturers specify that they are BBP resistant.
Non slip is great to have. As Dwayne said no need for super deep treads that will just track crud everywhere. Get a pair that will give you the confidence to walk on wet surfaces backwards with a patient.
Notice I didnt say would let you slip. Its the confidence that is necessary here. I had a pair that said anti slip and everytime I was on stairs in the rain I was a nervous wreck, had no confidence in the boot because it "felt" like they would slip. You need the confience in the footware that will allow you to concintrate on patient care on moving.
Personel preference here. I like composite toes, not steel toes. The composite toe is less likely to amputate a phlange if soemthing of weight drops on them. The composite is more likely to dispurse the weight and shatter then deform and slice.
The reason I mention the reenforced toe is because I have had a D-tank drop onto mine one time with and one time without protection. After walking around in a walking cast for awhile I realized the reenforced toe is worth iots weight in gold.
But like I said, its a personal preference, others may not agree and thats fine too. Polish or not polished again is up to the employer or in this case school. Most boots that I have come across can be polished to a degree. Yes I know there are kinds that can not be so take that into concideration as well. Find out ahead of time what you will be required to have. No need to purchase boots and have to return or buy another pair because of a polishing issue. When it comes to height I feel its better to have a taller boot because of the ankle support.
But it is a personal preference here again. Some like 6" boots others the 9". Its what feels comfortable on you that matters. I use the taller boot due to my rural setting and quite often working in the woods or uneven terrain so the added ankle support helps me.
I have less of a chance of rolling my ankle I feel. As far as brands go, there are several that are at the forefront of what most EMS wears. I can't speak for everyone but some are better then others in my opinion.
Not in any specific order though. These companies seem to listen to feedback from personel in the field and incorporate the design changes into their brands.
Hopefully these few tips, and the tips from others will help steer you in the direction of a great boot that will work for you, be comfortable, and of course last.
I've been wearing Converse 8" Tac side zip boots for years and love them. The most comfortable boots I've worn from day one and great for long shifts on my feet I worked as a floor tech for almost a year and wore them everyday.
They usually last around Large and sharp objects create a hazardous situation and lead to unnecessary injuries. Therefore, if you work where these hazards are commonplace, pick boots with adequate toe and metatarsal protection.
Also, keep in mind that not all boots offer the same protective features mentioned in this article. Depending on the EMS boot you choose, the protection offered by the midsole varies. Consequently, midsole stability ranges from basic protection against rocks, broken glass, and similar objects to more significant protection against nail punctures and similar items.
Essentially, anywhere metals and other materials can be found lying on the floor or around the feet. Chemical hazards include any chemical that creates a corrosive, flammable, reactive, toxic, or irritant hazard. Primarily, chemical hazards lead to physical injuries and numerous health risks. Boots that offer electrical protection comprise non-conductive, electrical shock-resistant materials.
Wear these EMS boots in environments where electric exposure is commonplace. These boots utilize specialized weather-resistant materials, insulation, and protective soles to reduce injuries in these environments. Weather resistance is self-explanatory. Boots comprised of weather-resistant materials prevent water from entering the boot to maintain internal dryness.
As a result, those working in wet environments with rain, flooding, or shallow waters benefit from boots with exceptional weather resistance.
Slip resistance provides stability and grip across various slick, oily, and slippery surfaces. Not all boots offer the same protection. Giving up unnecessary features can improve mobility, reduce weight, enhance support and minimize fatigue. Ultimately, check with your department to decide what protective characteristics are most important. This will help you determine the most suitable EMS boots for your circumstances. Besides protection, several other important factors determine how your boots perform and protect you.
Over the course of the day, your EMS boots play a huge role in overall comfort and support. Therefore, the most suitable EMS boots provide adequate padding designed to cushion the bottom, sides, and top of the feet.
Moreover, the boot bottom should offer a thick, supportive midsole designed to provide ample shock absorption and energy return. When picking EMS boots, look for a sturdy, thick, and flexible midsole with adequate shock protection. Also, make sure the footbed covers the entire foot. Combined, these features improve long-term comfort and enhance your daily work experience. The most suitable work boot insoles allow you to swap your footbed for a supportive aftermarket footbed.
This can greatly enhance your comfort, improve support and make your work boots more fitting. Also, consider wearing suitable compression socks to improve blood flow circulation and enhance recovery. Regarding materials, selecting odor-fighting anti-microbial fabrics and moisture-wicking materials keeps feet dry in damp environments and hot climates. The moisture-wicking fabric is a must-have if you frequently sweat because it reduces discomfort and provides odor control.
Finally, boots should be easily adjustable, whether using shoelaces, a zipper-up design, or velcro straps. Combined, these factors impact the mobility you can expect from EMS boots. Picking a properly-sized boot with a versatile midsole and protective features ensures you maintain adequate mobility without sacrificing support or protection. The most beneficial EMS boots offer adequate support and comfort, allowing for great mobility and stable traction across various terrain.
The support level your EMS boots offers is important for comfort and long-term health. Factors such as stability, weight distribution, and foot positioning allow you to effectively and efficiently perform your work duties. Together, these features affect forward momentum, stability, and proper posture.
Other boot features to consider are the TPU shank, support straps, and reinforced heel cup. If you can find boots that offer these features, you have a solid basis for a supportive boot. However, always seek a foot specialist to have your feet properly measured and to have potential medical concerns addressed. This ensures you choose a boot that is best suited for your needs and health.
Your EMS boots outsole should be designed with deep traction grooves that handle various terrain effectively and efficiently. This includes outdoor environments such as gravel, sand, rocks, hills, snow, and wet ground.
Furthermore, the boots should function optimally on indoor flooring and provide excellent slip resistance on slick surfaces. These materials ensure that your feet stay grounded with a minimum amount of slipping or sliding. Depending on the boots, outsole designs range from tire traction patterns to lugs and section-specific designs.
If you generally walk across the same terrain, pick boots with a tread pattern that accommodates your environment. Hopefully, this article was beneficial and provided the information needed to determine the most reliable EMS boots.
If you enjoyed this article, read the most dependable trauma shears and top-rated EMS pants for more reviews. With that said, here are some frequently asked questions regarding EMS boots and clothing guidelines. These boots usually feature a lace-up design and, in some cases, a side YKK zipper.
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