Static Dissipative
Static Dissipative (also known as ESD or Electrostatic Dissipative) footwear absorbs and neutralizes static electricity by absorbing loose electrons and sending them into the floor. The Electrostatic Dissipative shoe regulates the accumulation of electrical charge within the wearer's body and also reduces the risk of static shock to the wearer (it helps control the amount of electrical discharge from the body). It is ideal for sensitive electrical environments. Footwear marked with Electrostatic Dissipative meet the ASTM standards.
Electrical Hazard
Electrical Hazard is used to describe shoes that withstand applications of 14,400 volts at 60 Hz for one minute without leakage. Electrical Hazard shoes protect employees from open circuits and electrocution (it provides extra protection from accidental contact with electrically energized objects). The soles of the Electrical Hazard shoes provide a safety barrier from open electrical currents up to 600 volts. Footwear marked Electrical Hazard meet the ASTM standards.
Slip Resisting
Since there is not a recognized standard for slip resisting footwear, footwear producers typically test their products using two methods. One method is the James Machine and the other, the NBS-Brungraber (Mark I). The James Machine is a device that tests slip resistance on dry surfaces. The machine applies vertical force to a test pad. A lateral force is then applied and is increased until a slip occurs. The NBS-Brungraber (also designed for dry testing only) is similar to the James Machine, but it is a portable device, which allows testing on actual floors and work surfaces. The Mark I is still used, but the Mark II is more recognized today. The Mark II allows testing on both dry and wet surfaces (it is also portable). Most slip resisting footwear has a marking on the sole of the shoe signifying that the sole is slip resisting.
Waterproof
The term waterproof is used by the shoe industry to describe footwear specifically designed and tested to repel water. The shoe material is made to be waterproof to ensure that water does not permeate the fabric of the shoe, thus keeping the feet dry and comfortable. As with anything, waterproof shoes are not 100% effective and their effectiveness will vary depending on the length of exposure in water and the water depth, if you choose to submerge your shoes.
Insulated
Some footwear includes Thinsulate™ or other forms of insulation to provide warmth in cooler conditions. The higher the grams of insulation, the warmer the footwear will be. Some insulated footwear provides a degree rating, for example: footwear rated to -40 degrees F, will provide warmth to temperatures as low as -40 degrees F.
Composite Toe
A composite toe is a safety toe made up of layers of fiberglass, which eliminates the bulk and weight versus a safety toe made of steel. Footwear that features a Composite Toe can often be lighter when compared to a steel toe, but it is important to keep in mind that the weight of footwear can be affected by the other materials that make up the product.
