Work shoes are available in many shapes and have unique features and materials designed for specific occupations and uses. Thick leather boots with steel toe boxes can protect your feet. Boots with varying degrees of traction also are available.
The American Podiatric Medical Association offers the following guide that matches specific occupational hazards with work footwear:
| Hazard | Protection |
| Falling and rolling objects, cuts and punctures | steel-toe safety shoes; add-on devices: metatarsal guards, metal foot guards, puncture-proof inserts, shin guards |
| chemicals, solvents | footwear with synthetic stitching, and made of rubber, vinyl or plastic |
