Foot pain from work boots: causes and how to choose comfortable shoes

June 17, 2025

Foot pain after a day at work is the body’s signal that something is wrong. Especially if you work on your feet for 8-12 hours a day: in logistics, construction, manufacturing. At some point, even the strongest stamina gives up. But do you know what most often causes this discomfort? Improperly fitting work shoes.

Why do my feet hurt in work boots?

Unsuitable shoe shape. If the shoe is narrow, the heel slips or the toe rests on the foot, the foot is constantly under strain. Calluses, abrasions and pressure quickly develop into chronic pain.
Lack of cushioning. With each step, the foot receives an impact load. Without cushioning, this energy goes to the joints and spine. This is particularly noticeable when working on concrete or metal surfaces.
Stiff or low-quality materials. Plastic inserts, rough interior finishes, lack of ventilation – all of which make the work shift an ordeal.
Wrong size. Even high-end shoes will not save you if they are too small or too big. Your toes will be pinched, your heel chafed and your foot tired after an hour.
Lack of certification. Shoes that have not been tested often have defects in the design of the sole or toe. They are not designed to be worn for long periods and do not provide the necessary support.

Why is it important to choose shoes that are not only protective but also comfortable?

Many buyers focus on protection: the sole, the anti-tip insole, the waterproofness. However, they forget that comfort is also part of safety. Tired workers with sore feet are more likely to make mistakes, move slower, trip or stumble. Comfortable footwear reduces the risk of injury and increases productivity.

High-quality footwear should not only protect, but also support. That is why the TALAN factory develops models that comply not only with safety standards, but also with ergonomic principles. More information on certified products can be found in the Talan Health and Safety Catalogue, which brings together the best solutions for logistics, production and construction sites.

What to look for in comfortable work boots?

Heel cushioning. Reduces pressure on the spine and knee joints when walking.
Breathable materials. Mesh or fabric lining wicks away moisture and allows the foot to breathe.
Flexible sole. Especially in the toe area – provides freedom of movement and reduces fatigue.
Anatomical insole. Ideally, it should be removable. It can be replaced with an orthopaedic one at any time.
Secure fit. Laces or Velcro should hold the foot without pressure, but at the same time not allow the foot to sag.
Soft piping and tongue. Protects ankle and shin from abrasions.
Certifications and labelling. Look for EN ISO 20345 – a guarantee of proven quality.

How to choose and not regret it?

Try on your shoes in the afternoon. When your foot gets a little bigger, you will know if the shoe is too tight.
Don’t just go by size. The fit can vary from brand to brand.
Check labels and standards. Shoes must comply with EN ISO 20345 or Polish equivalents.
Read real reviews. Especially from those who work in similar conditions.
Consider the type of load. For warehouses — ventilation, for construction sites — moisture resistance and puncture protection.
Choose proven brands. TALAN is not just a shoe, it is 100 years of engineering experience and laboratory testing.

What should I do if my feet already hurt?

If you are already experiencing pain in your feet after a change, don’t ignore it. It could be the first symptom that the shoe is not fitting properly or needs to be modified. If the problem has already occurred:

Replace the insole with an anatomical or orthopaedic insole. Such an insole supports the arch of the foot and reduces muscle tension during prolonged walking.
Use socks with a reinforced heel area. These help to avoid chafing and absorb shock with every step.
Use creams or gel pads to prevent chafing. This reduces friction in contact areas and protects your skin from blistering.
Let the shoes wear out, but if the pain persists, look for another model. Even a quality pair may not fit anatomically, and you don’t want to endure constant discomfort after all.

Check out the lightweight and ergonomic options inTALAN workwear, where every element has been thought through to the smallest detail.

Mistakes when choosing: what can spoil everything?

Mistake #1: Buying without trying them on. Even the perfect work boots may not fit your foot.
Mistake #2: Choosing a size “by eye”. Better to try on several models and manufacturers.
Mistake No. 3: Ignoring labelling. Without EN ISO 20345, safety footwear can act as decorative rather than protective.
Mistake No. 4: Shoes that are too heavy. They tire quickly and cause knee pain.
Mistake No. 5: Insufficient ventilation. Particularly relevant in summer or in warm rooms.

Why TALAN is the footwear that takes care of you

TALAN is one of the market leaders in work footwear in Poland and Europe. We understand that a work shift is a marathon, not a sprint. Our shoes are designed not only with protection in mind, but also with an emphasis on comfort, flexibility, support and lightness.

This is why in every pair we produce:

Cushioning materials. Reduce heel and joint shock, especially when walking on concrete or metal.
Anatomical insoles. They adapt to the shape of the foot, reduce chafing and prevent flat feet.
Breathable materials. Provide ventilation and wick away moisture to prevent overheating and sweating.
Non-slip soles. Guarantee stability even on wet, greasy or dusty surfaces.
Compliance with international standards. Confirms that the footwear has been tested and truly protects in working conditions.

TALAN work boots help you work without pain or fatigue, day after day. If you’re tired of being tired, start with the right boots. Choose ones that work with you.

Comfort, protection and reliability are the cornerstones of productivity. With TALAN, every step will be sure and every shift will be easier. Don’t save money on something that directly affects your health! Good work boots are an investment in your well-being, safety, quality and comfort.