When it comes to protective footwear, slip-resistant and oil-resistant work boots are a topic that’s bound to come up.

These individual work boots may sound like the same thing, but this is often something that ends up catching people out.

On that note, the MyBestWorkBoots team has decided to put together a handy guide to help you navigate the differences between the 2 types of work boots, so keep reading…

What Are Slip-Resistant Work Boots?

Slip-resistant work boots are work boots that are made to give you more grip when walking on surfaces that are slippery, like snow or ice. 

They usually have a more durable design around the toe, heel, and instep so that you can move more comfortably and freely without worrying about potentially getting hurt or falling.

What Are Oil-Resistant Work Boots?

Oil-resistant work boots are work boots designed to keep your feet cool, dry, and protected from spills and other wet conditions. 

Materials used in building these work boots don’t absorb oil or emit toxic fumes that can cause health problems. 

Leather can be used to make oil-resistant work boots; it’s frequently treated with plastic, rubber, or neoprene¹. 

Similarities Between Slip-Resistant & Oil-Resistant Work Boots

The similarities between slip-resistant and oil-resistant work boots are that they both seek to protect the foot from hazards in the workplace.

Furthermore, both hazards associated with the work boots are related to oils and liquids and the risk posed to the foot if exposed².

Differences Between Slip-Resistant & Oil-Resistant Work Boots

The differences between slip-resistant and oil-resistant work boots begin with the fact that they’re both built for 2 completely different purposes; one provides additional grip while walking, and the other prevents oils and liquids from seeping into the boot.

Let’s take a closer look at the differences:

Material

Oil-resistant work boots can be made using leather, plastic, or neoprene, and these are types of materials that repel water and oil but are generally not as durable as leather work boots.

Slip-resistant work boots have a stronger design around the toe, heel, and instep, giving you more flexibility and keeping you from slipping on ice or other slippery surfaces. 

Traction

For obvious reasons, slip-resistant work boots offer more traction, as their sole purpose is to prevent slipping and losing grip.

While oil-resistant boots may offer a decent grip, it’s not nearly to the same standard as that of slip-resistant work boots.

Durability

Oil-resistant shoes offer a degree of durability but aren’t as durable as their slip-resistant counterparts.

This is due to the materials used in each shoe; the impervious materials in an oil-resistant shoe are strong but don’t offer the same level of durability as the hard plastics, metals, and leather materials of a slip-resistant boot.

Price

Because of the above factors, slip-resistant work boots tend to be the more expensive option. 

On the contrary, it can be more expensive to buy and maintain oil-resistant shoes over time, while slip-resistant work boots tend to last longer.

Flexibility

Slip-resistant work boots don’t have the waterproof, reinforced materials that are needed to keep water, oil, and other liquids out – instead, they’re made to be more flexible.

Oil-resistant work boots, especially those made using rubber, can be uncomfortable and rather rigid at first.

However, with time, these boots may become more comfortable.

Weight

When you consider the materials used in making each boot, it makes sense that oil-resistant boots are a lot heavier than slip-resistant work boots.

The weight of slip-resistant boots, however, will differ based on their intended purpose.

For example, slip-resistant boots with a reinforced steel-toe cap made for the construction industry will ultimately weigh more than a work boot designed for factory work.

Slip-Resistant vs. Oil-Resistant Work Boots: Which Is Best for You?

Although price and appearance contribute to your work boot choice, other factors will be more important in your decision-making process.

Good-quality shoes will provide flexibility and comfort, and they’ll be light and durable. 

If you run the risk of slipping and falling while you work, slip-resistant work boots are the better option.

However

For those working with oil and other chemicals, oil-resistant boots are the better option, as they don’t absorb the substances that they come into contact with.

Common Questions

In Conclusion

When you’re working in an environment where your feet are at risk, you’ll want to ensure that the work boots you choose are the right fit.

The MyBestWorkBoots team would suggest analyzing your work environment and assessing the risks before settling on the boot you’d like to purchase.

By following our guide to slip-resistant vs. oil-resistant boots, you’ll have the knowledge and expertise to do exactly that.