Cold weather boots

Extreme cold-weather safety boots help limit risks when working in winter conditions, preserving foot protection and comfort at the workstation. This category covers in particular boots and safety shoes with cold insulation, as well as soles suited to travel on difficult ground. They are particularly useful for logistics and warehousing, construction, public services, agriculture, transport and industry. To complete your thermal protection, also discover our cold-resistant work gloves.

What standards apply to extreme cold-weather safety boots?

To select safety boots suited to extreme cold, it is essential to rely on references that frame performance and markings. The reference standard is evolving: certifications may fall under EN ISO 20345:2011 or EN ISO 20345:2022, then EN ISO 20345:2022+A1:2024, with 2011 certifications remaining valid during the coexistence period.

  • EN ISO 20345:2022+A1:2024: fundamental requirements (200 J/15 kN toecap, materials, ergonomics, slip resistance) and SB to S7S levels according to use.
  • EN ISO 20344: test methods, particularly sole slip resistance.
  • CI marking: insulation against cold, to check for environments exposed to low temperatures.
  • SR marking: slip resistance on ceramic flooring with glycerine.

What types of extreme cold-weather safety boots are there, and for which sectors?

Extreme cold-weather safety boots come in different versions according to trade constraints and the levels of the EN ISO 20345 standard. The choice is made according to moisture, terrain, puncture and slipping hazards, as well as the need for insulation.

  • Models with CI marking: intended for activities exposed to low temperatures, particularly in logistics, transport and public services.
  • S3 levels (and S3L/S3S variants): suited to building sites and demanding environments with puncture requirements and a cleated sole.
  • S4/S5 levels: for very wet environments, with a rubber or polymer design depending on classification.
  • FO and HRO markings: useful in industry when exposure to hydrocarbons or sole contact heat is among the constraints.

How should extreme cold-weather safety boots be maintained?

Regular maintenance extends the period of use and helps preserve performance, particularly grip and water resistance. Clean after use to limit the build-up of dirt, paying particular attention to the sole, whose slip resistance can be affected by dirt, moisture and wear.

  • Drying: leave to air dry, away from a direct heat source, to preserve the materials.
  • Storage: store in a dry place, away from moisture and pollutants likely to affect properties.
  • Monitoring: check the condition of the cleats, cracks, delamination, wear of the toe-cap guard and deterioration of the upper.
  • Replacement: replace in the event of loss of grip, water ingress (WR/WPA) or visible deterioration.

What specific points should be considered for extreme cold-weather safety boots?

In extreme conditions, selection is not limited to insulation: the consistency of markings with the actual environment must also be checked. On cold and sometimes greasy floors, slip resistance (SR) and the condition of the sole are decisive, especially as moisture, contamination and wear can affect performance.

  • Insulation against cold (CI): to be favoured to limit heat loss at the sole.
  • Moisture management: depending on needs, check WR (waterproof footwear) and WPA (upper resistant to water penetration and absorption).
  • Trade compatibility: for electronics, ESD requirements may apply, while bearing in mind that ESD footwear is not suitable for electricians working on live parts.
  • Reading the marking: check the standard, the level (SB to S7S) and additional properties (FO, HRO, AN, SC, LG) according to the hazards.