GET A GRIP




GET A GRIP



SLIP RESISTANT SHOES & BOOTS: A COMPREHENSIVE GUIDE

While it may not be top of mind, every step you take is dependent on friction between the soles of your footwear and the ground. If the ground is too slick for the soles, you slip. If the sole’s outsole compound is too sticky, you trip. There are many factors that go into optimizing traction, that’s why our designers and engineers are constantly working on new ways to maximize your outsole experience.  

TRACTION VS. DURABILITY

Generally, the softer an outsole compound is, the faster it will wear down. Imagine a shoe sole made of pencil eraser rubber—sure it will be soft and squishy, and resist slipping on dry pavement, but it certainly won’t last long. When we formulate our outsole compounds, we’re looking to strike the right balance, creating footwear that both grips and provides long lasting durability.  

TREAD PATTERN & SOLE DESIGN

Different activities and climates require different tread patterns and lug designs. If you’re climbing ladders, you need a heel that locks into the rungs. If you’re walking through dirt, you need a sole that releases the mud and won’t get clogged. If your job requires working on wet ice, you need a sole that bites into it. Kodiak’s product team tailor's outsole designs to specific workplace needs —so you always have the right tool for the job.  

PUTTING SLIP RESISTANT SHOES TO THE TEST

To measure and verify slip-performance, Kodiak’s work boots are sent to a third-party laboratory that uses sophisticated test equipment with consistent surfaces (dry quarry tile, wet quarry tile, and wet stainless steel.)


Slip resistance testing is measured in Coefficient of Friction—we test our footwear to the CSA Z195-14 Test Method.


You can find test results for styles with slip resistant properties under the product’s description on our website. The higher the slip score, the more slip resistant the outsole on that surface. 

KODIAK'S SLIP RESISTANT WORK SHOES & BOOTS

Whether you are looking for 6” boots, 8” boots, wellington boots, Chelsea boots, hikers, soft-toe boots, or athletic shoes, Kodiak is home to some of the best slip resistant work boots and shoes.