5 Common questions about gumboots

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Five of the most common questions around gumboots and selecting the perfect pair for the job.

5 Common questions about gumboots
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  1. Which industries are gumboots used for?

Wayne gumboots are divided into four key ranges:

  • Mining, quarries & construction: Heavy-duty gumboots, most of which have a steel toe cap and midsole for added protection.
  • Food processing & hygiene: Suited to numerous applications within the food processing, hygiene, cleaning and medical industries.
  • Agriculture & forestry: Engineered to tolerate the specific dangers associated with the agriculture and forestry industries.
  • Every-day use: Gumboots that provide every-day protection for domestic, gardening, hiking, manufacturing and light industry uses.
  1. What’s the difference between PU and PVC gumboots?

PVC gumboots are economical, provide reliable protection against a wide range of substances and even greater resistance than PU to the harsher acids, oils and chemicals present in some industrial environments.

Polyurethane (PU) gumboots are growing in popularity, because they last three times longer than PVC gumboots, they’re lighter and more flexible and have better breathability and hygiene.

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  1. How long should a pair of PVC gumboots last?

This will vary depending on their application. Based on deep-level mining where boots are subjected to the worst possible conditions for up to 12 hours/day, the boots last 90 shifts (about three months). Generally, gumboots can last longer, especially if properly cared for and not subjected to physical damage or high concentrations of chemicals, solvents or oils.

4How do you select the right boot for the job?

It’s important to consider that specifications are theoretical by nature in that they relate to controlled laboratory conditions. They should therefore only be used as a guideline. Working conditions vary and tests should therefore be conducted in the specific areas where the boots are to be used to ensure the correct specs are aligned to the application.

Steel toe caps and penetration resistant midsoles are the exceptions, as these are designed to provide adequate protection anywhere.

5. What’s the correct way to care for gumboots?

Taking the correct care of gumboots can greatly affect their lifespan and the wearer’s foot hygiene:

  • Gumboots should be cleaned as often as possible to avoid the build of bacteria or germs.
  • Clean the exterior of the boot with mild soap and water. Never use chemicals or solvents, as these will make the boot brittle, causing it to crack.
  • Use mild soap, water and a scrubbing brush to remove soil build-up in the sole tread pattern.
  • Wash the boot interior with mild detergent and rinse thoroughly.
  • To dry, place the boot where there is good air circulation, like outside. Never use heat to speed up the drying process.
  • A clean pair of absorbent cotton socks should be worn every day.

Fast fact: All Wayne gumboots come with a knitted nylon sock liner instead of a brushed nylon liner to prevent the absorption of moisture and make them easy to clean the inside.

For more information visit www.wayne-safety.com.

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