Our feet are vulnerable to injuries from rough terrain, extreme temperatures, and thorns or sharp objects. As humans migrated to new areas with harsher climates or more rugged landscapes, the need for foot protection increased.  Imagine walking across hot sand, cold snow, or sharp rocks without any covering – not quite comfortable, right? However, with utility comes the need for its maintenance to preserve its utility for years of usage. In India and the world over, safety shoe manufacturers understood this need and started investing in technology and materials that could withstand such challenges. Here are some tips to protect and maintain those who protect us, or our feet in this case - safety shoes! 

Treat them right away!

New doesn't always mean ready. Before you first wear, give your Mallcom shoes some attention and care. Brush off any debris and apply a leather conditioner or waterproofing spray following the manufacturer's instructions. This creates a barrier and keeps the leather supple.

Cleaning and Maintenance

Routine cleaning is key. Wipe down your Mallcom shoes with a damp cloth after each wear to remove dirt and grime. Pay attention to seams and around the steel toe where debris can gather. Let them air dry completely, away from direct heat sources.

Deep clean occasionally

For tougher dirt or stains, use a leather cleaner designed for safety shoes. Be sure the cleaner is safe for the material of your shoes, especially if they're Mallcom’s Civet shoes, which are a combination of leather and synthetics.

Conditioning is essential: Ontilla High ankle safety shoes, in particular, need regular conditioning to prevent drying and cracking. Use a leather conditioner recommended for safety footwear to maintain suppleness and water resistance.

Maintain Freshness and Performance

Ventilation: After use, unpack your shoes and leave them in a well-ventilated area away from heat sources. This allows moisture to escape and prevents the growth of odour-causing bacteria.

Brushing: Use a soft, non-metallic brush to remove dirt and dust from the surface. This is especially important after use in muddy or dusty conditions.

Cleaning: For a more thorough cleaning, use a shoe cleaning product appropriate for the material of your footwear. Follow the instructions on the product label.

Drying: Always allow your shoes to dry completely after cleaning or getting wet. Leaving them damp can lead to odour and material breakdown.

Specifics for Steel Toes

Impact protection comes first. Avoid kicking or dropping heavy objects on your steel toes. The force of impact can damage the protective components, reducing their effectiveness.

Drying is crucial. Steel toe safety shoes like Lorex, Guina and  Margay, can trap moisture, leading to rust and odour although Lorex’s Tiger sole is quite resilient. Stuff your shoes with newspaper after wearing them to absorb sweat and moisture. Let them air dry completely before storing.

General care

Alternate pairs can help. If possible, rotate between two pairs of Mallcom safety shoes. This gives each pair time to dry out completely and extends their lifespan.

Replace worn-out parts. Insoles wear out over time, losing their shock absorption and support. Replace them with new ones designed for safety shoes when needed.

Store them properly. Don't just shove your Mallcom shoes in a locker. Keep them in a cool, dry, and well-ventilated place. Stuffing them with newspapers can help them maintain their shape.

By following these tips, you can extend the life of your Mallcom safety shoes, especially those with steel toes, ensuring continued protection and comfort on the job. Remember, safety shoes are an investment, so proper care goes a long way.

FAQs

Can I wash my safety shoes?

Yes, you can wash them if they are made of canvas. Such safety shoes usually include sneakers and safety sneakers. They are known to be durable enough to handle machine washing. However, shoes made of imitation leather, leather, or suede are more delicate and should not be washed in the machine. 

How long can you wear Mallcom’s safety shoes?

Anywhere between 6 months to 2 years, the lifespan of safety footwear can vary depending on factors such as the quality of material, frequency of use, and level of maintenance. However, generally, safety footwear can last between 6 months to 2 years. Mallcom safety shoes are EN & BIS Certified