Summer Safety Shoes: How to Choose a Breathable Pair and Prevent Odour and Foot Fungus

Sweating, odour and feet that feel heavy by the end of the shift are the complaints we hear most in summer. This guide explains how to choose a cooler safety shoe without giving up protection, and how to prevent odour and fungal infections. For all class markings, see our

how to read a safety shoe label guide.

Which protection class should you choose for summer safety shoes?

How cool a shoe feels depends largely on whether the upper lets air through. In EN ISO 20345:2022, S2 and S3 require the upper to resist water penetration and water absorption. That is why a shoe with a perforated or open-mesh upper cannot be S2 or S3; textile uppers are used on S2 and S3 models only when they have a water-repellent treatment. The coolest models are in classes S1 and S1P.

To see the difference between S1P and S3 in detail, read our

S1P vs S3 safety shoes guide.

6 features to check in a breathable safety shoe

1. Upper: perforated leather, mesh or breathable microfibre uppers increase airflow. A closed, thick leather upper is warmer.
2. Lining: a moisture-wicking textile lining stops sweat building up around the foot. Thick, furry or fleece linings are not suitable for summer.
3. Toe cap: steel and composite toe caps pass the same impact test. A composite toe cap conducts less heat because it is not metal, and it is usually lighter. Steel toe models can be more economical; for details see our steel toe safety shoe guide.
4. Sole: lightweight sole materials such as PU or EVA reduce fatigue for people who stand all day. A rubber outsole can be more durable and slip-resistant, but it is heavier.
5. Removable insole: an insole you can take out and dry in the evening is the most practical help against odour and moisture.
6. Correct size and fit: a tight shoe makes you sweat more and causes friction blisters. Measure your foot length and compare it with the safety shoe size chart.

Which summer safety shoe for which workplace?

For jobs that do not require a protective toe cap,

non-safety work shoes can be a lighter alternative; work clogs and slippers are comfortable for kitchen and healthcare staff, but most of them carry no safety class. Where protection is required, check the product page for an S class and a protective toe cap.

Why do safety shoes smell?

The soles of the feet have one of the highest concentrations of sweat glands in the body. Sweat that builds up in a closed shoe is broken down by bacteria on the skin and inside the shoe, and this process produces the unpleasant smell. Three habits make it worse:

• Wearing the same shoes every day without letting them dry
• Wearing thick or 100% cotton socks that hold moisture in hot weather
• Never taking the insole out, so moisture stays trapped underneath it

How to get rid of safety shoe odour: 7 steps

1. Change your socks every day. Keep a spare pair with you on long shifts.
2. Take out the insole: remove it every evening and dry it separately from the shoe.
3. Alternate two pairs: a shoe usually needs a full day of rest to dry completely inside.
4. Dry at room temperature: radiators, heaters, hair dryers and direct sunlight can harden leather and damage the adhesive.
5. Use an odour absorber: leave baking soda or a shoe deodorising powder inside overnight and shake it out well the next day.
6. Clean the way the manufacturer allows: most safety shoes are not machine-washable; wipe the inside with a damp cloth and let it dry.
7. Replace the insole: a worn insole holds odour. On antistatic or ESD models use only the insole recommended by the manufacturer.

Can safety shoes cause foot fungus?

The shoe itself does not cause a fungal infection, but a foot that stays damp all day is an ideal environment for fungi. Drying carefully between the toes after washing, changing socks every day and letting shoes dry before wearing them again reduce the risk. Do not share shoes or socks. During antifungal treatment, dry your shoes thoroughly as well; fungal spores can remain in the shoe.

Which socks should you wear in summer?

Socks largely determine how comfortable a summer safety shoe feels. Choose thin socks with reinforced heel and toe areas, in blends that wick moisture away from the skin (bamboo or synthetic blends). Thick terry and wool socks are for winter. You can find our

bamboo no-show socks and bamboo crew socks in the work socks category.

Example summer models from our catalogue

The models below can be considered for summer use based on their protection class and upper. Always confirm the upper material, sole and additional markings on the product page and the label.

For all options, see the

composite toe safety shoes, steel toe safety shoes and all safety shoes categories. If you are buying for a team, you can request a quotation on our bulk and corporate orders page.

Frequently asked questions

Which safety shoes don’t make your feet sweat?

No closed safety shoe stops sweating completely. The coolest options are usually S1 or S1P models with a perforated or mesh upper and a lightweight composite toe cap. Moisture-wicking socks and alternating two pairs make as much difference as the choice of shoe.

Can summer safety shoes have a steel toe cap?

Yes. Steel and composite toe caps pass the same impact test (200 J). A composite toe cap conducts less heat because it is not metal and is usually lighter, so in hot weather most people find composite toe models more comfortable.

Do mesh safety shoes let water in?

Yes. A perforated or open-mesh upper does not protect against water penetration, which is why these models cannot be S2 or S3. They should not be used on wet floors, outdoor sites or where liquids splash.

Should you wear S3 safety shoes in summer?

Yes, if your job requires water resistance and puncture protection; summer is not a reason to drop the protection class. S3 models can be warmer because of their closed construction. Thin moisture-wicking socks, a removable insole and daily drying improve comfort.

Why do safety shoes smell?

Sweat that builds up in a closed shoe is broken down by bacteria on the skin and inside the shoe, and this process produces the smell. Wearing the same shoes every day, putting them on again before they are dry and socks that hold moisture all make the odour worse.

How do you get rid of safety shoe odour?

Take the insole out every evening and dry it with the shoe at room temperature, alternate two pairs and change your socks every day. Deodorising powder or baking soda can be left inside overnight and shaken out the next day. Radiators, heaters and direct sunlight can damage leather and adhesive.

Can safety shoes cause foot fungus?

The shoe alone does not cause a fungal infection, but a foot that stays damp for a long time increases the risk. Keeping feet dry, changing socks daily and drying shoes reduce it. During antifungal treatment, shoes should also be dried thoroughly. If you have itching, peeling or cracks, ask a pharmacist or doctor.

Can you replace the insole of a safety shoe?

Yes, on models with a removable insole. On antistatic, ESD or electrical-hazard footwear use only the insole recommended by the manufacturer; a different insole can affect these properties.