S1, S1P, S2, or S3 – Which safety shoe class do you really need?
Safety shoes are not just safety shoes. Whether on the construction site, in the workshop, or in the warehouse – the choice of the right protection class determines comfort, safety, and even compliance with legal regulations. In this article, you will learn clearly and simply what the classes S1, S1P, S2, and S3 mean and which is the right one for your area of application.
What do the safety classes mean for shoes?
The EN ISO 20345 regulates how safety shoes are classified. The most important protection classes at a glance:
| Class | Protective features | Application area |
|---|---|---|
| S1 | Toe protection cap, antistatic, energy absorption in the heel area | Indoor areas, dry environments |
| S1P | like S1 + puncture protection | Warehouse, workshop, production (dry) |
| S2 | like S1 + water-repellent | Construction, food industry (slightly damp) |
| S3 | like S2 + puncture protection + profile sole | Construction sites, outdoor use, damp ground |
When do you need S1, S1P, S2 or S3?
✅ S1 – The basic protection
Ideal for dry indoor areas – e.g. electricians, warehouse workers, mechanics in workshops.
No puncture protection – not suitable for nails or sharp objects!
✅ S1P – Like S1, but with puncture protection
If you additionally need protection against nails, screws, or metal shavings – e.g. in metal processing or shipping.
✅ S2 – Water-repellent
Perfect for slightly damp working environments – such as in large kitchens, in cleaning areas, or for temporary outdoor use.
✅ S3 – The all-rounder for outdoors
The standard on construction sites, in civil engineering, or in constant outdoor use.
With steel toe cap, puncture protection, and slip-resistant, profiled sole.
Our recommendation (short & clear)
| Industry | Recommended protection class |
|---|---|
| Office / Technical Room | S1 |
| Warehouse / Assembly | S1P |
| Cleaning / Gastro | S2 |
| Construction / Field Service | S3 |
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
What is better: S1P or S3?
S3 offers more protection through water resistance and profile sole – better for outdoors. S1P is cheaper and sufficient for dry indoor areas.
Is there also S5?
Yes, S4 and S5 apply to rubber boots and plastic boots – e.g., in agriculture or sewer technology.
Are all S3 shoes the same?
No – depending on the manufacturer, there are differences in comfort, material, sole technology, and weight. With us, you will find tested models for heavy-duty use.
Conclusion
Safety shoes are not all the same – each class offers different protection.
Choose S1 or S1P for dry indoor areas, S2 for moisture, and S3 for heavy-duty outdoor use.
Do you need support in choosing? We are happy to advise you directly and uncomplicated.