kamu_safety

KAMU Safety and Safety Mate Unite to Transform Workplace Safety Solutions

Fri, 21 Feb 2025 16:03:35 GMT

KAMU Safety and Safety Mate Unite to Transform Workplace Safety Solutions

PERTH, AUSTRALIA — KAMU Safety, the innovative leader in anti-fatigue safety footwear, today announced a strategic partnership with Safety Mate, Australia and New Zealand's premier workplace safety solutions provider. The collaboration combines KAMU Safety's cutting-edge footwear technology with Safety Mate's comprehensive safety expertise, delivering enhanced protection and comfort to workers.

Through Safety Mate's established distribution network, KAMU Safety's award-winning anti-fatigue boots will become more accessible to businesses of all sizes. This partnership represents a significant step forward in meeting the growing demand for safety equipment that prioritizes both protection and worker comfort.

"Our partnership with Safety Mate perfectly aligns with our mission to revolutionize workplace safety through innovation," said Lusy Hartanu, Co-Founder of KAMU Safety. "By joining forces, we're not merely providing safety equipment—we're delivering comprehensive solutions that boost worker well-being and productivity."

Clint Tee, Director of Safety Mate, added, "KAMU Safety's innovative approach to safety footwear complements our commitment to providing the best safety solutions. Together, we're creating a new standard for workplace safety that prioritizes both protection and comfort."

For more information about the partnership and available products, visit here.

Supporting Mental Health on the Job: How Comfort and Safety Gear Can Make All the Difference

contact@kamusafety.com.au (Lusy Hartanu) — Mon, 04 Nov 2024 05:12:43 GMT

Supporting Mental Health on the Job: How Comfort and Safety Gear Can Make All the Difference

In high-hazard jobs, the risks go beyond physical injuries. Long hours, dangerous environments, and constant pressure to stay alert can take a toll on mental health. Workers in these roles often face elevated levels of stress, anxiety, and fatigue. While we often focus on helmets, gloves, and other protective gear to keep people safe, there’s another layer of protection that’s just as important: comfort.

When your body is comfortable, your mind can focus. That’s why psychological safety—the feeling of being supported and secure in your work environment—starts with the right gear. At KAMU®️, we understand that comfort isn’t a luxury; it’s a necessity for both physical and mental well-being on the job.

Take our KAMU®️ Safety Boots, for example. These aren’t just any boots—they’re designed with anti-fatigue technology and OrthoLite insoles to provide long-lasting cushioning and support. When you’re standing or walking for hours at a time, the strain on your feet can quickly lead to overall exhaustion. And when your body is tired, it becomes harder to stay focused and mentally sharp.

Imagine this: You’re working a 10-hour shift in a high-risk environment. You’ve got all the right safety gear on—your helmet, gloves, goggles—but your feet are aching after just a few hours. That discomfort starts creeping into your mind, making it harder to concentrate on the task at hand. Now imagine if your boots felt like they were supporting you every step of the way. Suddenly, you’re not thinking about the pain in your feet—you’re thinking about doing your job safely and effectively.

That’s what KAMU®️ Safety Boots with OrthoLite technology offer: comfort that helps reduce physical fatigue so you can stay mentally sharp. When workers feel physically supported, they are less likely to experience burnout or stress-related mental health challenges.

By focusing on both physical and psychological safety, we can create work environments where employees feel empowered to do their best work—without sacrificing their well-being.

Ready to experience the difference? Learn more about how KAMU®️ Safety Boots can help reduce fatigue and support mental well-being on the job.

The Science Behind Infinergy®: Energize Your Every Step

Wed, 16 Oct 2024 01:00:00 GMT

The Science Behind Infinergy®: Energize Your Every Step

In the world of safety footwear, comfort and performance are not just luxuries—they are necessities. At KAMU Safety, we understand that every step you take is crucial, especially when your job demands long hours on your feet. That’s why we’ve harnessed the power of Infinergy® technology, a revolutionary material designed to energize your every step.

What is Infinergy?

Infinergy is an innovative expanded thermoplastic polyurethane (E-TPU) developed by BASF, originally designed for high-performance sports footwear. This cutting-edge material has transformed the way we think about cushioning in safety boots. Unlike traditional foams, Infinergy features a unique closed-cell structure that allows it to absorb impact and return energy, making each step feel lighter and more dynamic.

The Magic of Energy Return

Imagine this: with every step you take in KAMU Safety boots equipped with Infinergy, energy is stored as your foot strikes the ground. When you lift your foot to take the next step, that stored energy is released, propelling you forward. This remarkable energy return can be as high as 57%, significantly reducing fatigue and allowing you to maintain peak performance throughout your workday.

Workers in physically demanding jobs often face challenges like fatigue and discomfort, which can lead to decreased productivity and increased risk of injury. With Infinergy technology, KAMU boots help combat these issues by providing a responsive cushioning system that not only absorbs shock but also actively contributes to your movement.

Unmatched Comfort and Support

Comfort is paramount when it comes to safety footwear. Infinergy’s high elasticity and low density ensure that the boots remain lightweight without compromising on support. The material’s ability to spring back into shape after compression means that you can rely on consistent cushioning day in and day out.

Moreover, Infinergy is designed to withstand extreme temperatures—from -20°C to over 40°C—ensuring that your comfort doesn’t waver no matter the working conditions. Whether you're navigating a chilly construction site or working in a hot warehouse, KAMU Safety boots with Infinergy technology adapt to keep your feet comfortable.

Built for Durability

Durability is another hallmark of Infinergy technology. Unlike traditional foams that can break down over time, Infinergy maintains its elastic memory even under constant stress. This means that KAMU boots are not only built for comfort but also engineered to last, providing long-term performance without losing their supportive properties.

Additionally, the outer sole options—Thermoplastic Polyurethane (TPU) or rubber—are designed for SRC anti-slip performance while also resisting heat, fuel, oil, and abrasion. This combination ensures that your boots can handle the rigors of any job site while keeping you safe.

Real-World Impact

Consider the story of Mark, a construction worker who switched to KAMU Safety boots featuring Infinergy technology. “Before I made the switch,” he shares, “I dreaded long shifts because my feet would ache by midday. Now, I feel energized even after a full day on-site.” Mark’s experience is echoed by many who have found that KAMU boots allow them to focus on their tasks without being distracted by discomfort.

At KAMU Safety, we believe that when your feet feel good, you can achieve more. With Infinergy technology at the core of our safety boots, we are committed to providing footwear that not only meets safety standards but also enhances performance and comfort.

So why settle for ordinary when you can have extraordinary? Step into a pair of KAMU Safety boots and energize your every step—because every step counts!

International Award Win for KAMU Anti-Fatigue Safety Boots

Mon, 25 Mar 2024 02:34:53 GMT

International Award Win for KAMU Anti-Fatigue Safety Boots

Media Release. Melbourne, 21. March 2024

Australian safety footwear brand KAMU has been honoured with the iF DESIGN AWARD 2024 for its anti-fatigue safety boot range.

Selected from a competitive field of nearly 11,000 entries across 72 countries, KAMU's achievement in the Industry Products category highlights its commitment to innovation through biomechanical design. The award recognises KAMU's dedication to excellence in design and functionality, with boots tailored specifically for workers in Australia and New Zealand.

KAMU was founded in 2020 by three sisters from the Berkat Safety family business. Specialists in safety footwear and PPE for over 50 years, the family has built a legacy of craftsmanship and innovation.

"We are honoured to receive the iF DESIGN AWARD 2024, which emphasises our commitment to improving workplace health and well-being through excellence in safety footwear design. The work boot range has been designed reduce the risk of exhaustion, musculoskeletal issues, and heat stress,” said KAMU Co-Founder Lusy Hartanu.

“This boot design perfectly reflects our mission: we want to empower the workforce to remain energised and alert throughout the day, thereby reducing hazards and preventing injuries. We also aim to promote greater well-being and faster recovery after shifts, recognising that life beyond work matters."

Developed through collaboration among in-house and external footwear experts from Australia, Germany, and Indonesia, the work boot range is centred around a full-length anti-fatigue midsole made from Infinergy ^® by BASF, significantly enhancing energy return and stability for wearers.

“It’s unique four-layer sole construction combines materials of varying densities to optimise energy rebound, shock absorption, and deliver excellent ankle and arch support. The outsole surpasses the highest SRC slip-resistance standards. We optimise climate regulation by combining premium leathers with performance materials like Coolmax and Ortholite, that keep feet dry and workers cooler in demanding industrial environments and Australian climates," added Hartanu.

Design studio Factor Product played a pivotal role in shaping the unique design of the award-winning KAMU safety boot range.

"We are proud that our collaboration with the KAMU team and BASF performance material experts resulted in a work boot range that represents a new breed of PPE and that might set a new benchmark in safety and wellbeing at the workplace. With a focus on a design and materials that help prevent fatigue, we have achieved the seamless integration of biomechanical function, advanced robustness, lightweight construction and an iconic look," said Boris Simon, Managing Partner at Factor Product.

For further details about KAMU safety footwear and the iF DESIGN AWARD 2024, please visit ifdesign.com .

About KAMU:
Established in 2020, KAMU is an Australian safety footwear brand with a vision to enhance workplace safety and workers’ well-being from the ground up. The roots of KAMU extend back three generations to the Berkat Safety family business specialising in safety footwear and PPE. Operating for more than 50 years, the company has been a pioneer in introducing PPE to workplaces across the Asia-Pacific region.

About Factor Product:
Factor Product is a multidisciplinary award-winning design studio renowned for its user-centric approach to product design. Founded in 1994 in Munich, the studio has successfully designed footwear, sports equipment, lifestyle, and industrial products for global clients such as Adidas, Salewa, Gore-Tex, and Fischer Sports.

About the iF DESIGN AWARD:
Since its inception in 1954, the iF DESIGN AWARD has been a symbol of design excellence, recognizing outstanding achievements across various design disciplines. Organized by the esteemed iF International Forum Design GmbH, the award celebrates innovation and creativity, setting a global standard for design excellence in product, communication, and service design.

Download this Media Release here:

For media inquiries, please contact:

Media Relations KAMU safety

contact@kamusafety.com.au

1300 30 76 78

Fight fatigue from the bottom up

Mon, 24 Apr 2023 06:29:01 GMT

Get an extra boost of energy from your workboots

Work boots with anti-fatigue technology are a must-have for anyone who spends long hours on their feet. Let's be real, standing and walking all day can be a real pain in the feet (literally). But, with the KAMU® anti-fatigue sole made with Infinergy® by BASF, you can say goodbye to tired feet and hello to increased productivity.

Infinergy® is a super cool material that's used in the soles of safety boots. It's an expanded thermoplastic polyurethane (eTPU) midsole that gives your feet a boost of energy with every step. The material combines the best properties of rubber, which is elastic and durable, with the benefits of foam, which is lightweight. Infinergy® compresses and then returns to its original shape, resulting in the "energy rebound" we love in our sneakers. With that it also provides a cushioning effect that helps to reduce the impact of each step. These midsoles also provide additional support and stability.

All in all: less strain on your feet, which equals less fatigue. Which can also mean less slips, trips, and falls. So, not only do they make your feet feel good, they keep you safe on the job.

Infinergy® is known to have a rebound of 57% to 75%. The higher the rebound, the less energy gets "lost" with every step. The values Infinergy® achieves are outstanding, compared to other midsole materials like EVA. This rebound also performs well in a wide range of temperatures, which means it does not go stiff or brittle or loses it's bounce. It also has good abrasion and chemical resistance, which is of course important at worksites where concrete, acids, cleaning agents and other chemicals are used. These properties make Infinergy durable and long-lasting, so you can enjoy the benefits of the anti-fatigue technology for a long time.

The other benefit of Infinergy® is that it combines lower weight with durability - the best of both worlds!

But, the benefits of safety boots with anti-fatigue technology don't stop at just your feet. When your feet feel good, your whole body feels good. And when your body feels good, your mind can focus better. This means you can get more done in less time and with less effort.

In short, work shoes with anti-fatigue technology are a no-brainer. They'll keep your feet happy, your body less strained, and your mind focused. And with all that, you'll be able to work more efficiently. Isn't it great to have something left in the tank at the end of your shift?

Workwear that works for us!

Tue, 14 Mar 2023 04:31:25 GMT

From Frumpy to Fashionable

Back when we got thrown into our first industrial jobs, workwear wasn’t very comfortable, let alone stylish. We're glad the offer is different now. Gone are the days when workwear was all about function and not much else. Today, workwear is integral to a company's branding, employer marketing and employee retention.

Women's Workwear Options

Here's the best news: there are now more choices for women's industrial workwear than ever before. In the past, women had to make do with whatever men's coveralls were availabel in smaller sizes. What women had to wear was often uncomfortable and ill-fitting. Today, there are many companies that create fantastic workwear specifically for women. The styles, the fit, the sizes, even the maternity lines - all made for the growing number of females in trades and industrial jobs. Women can now choose workwear that protects and suits them, regardless of their body type.

Innovative Materials

New materials that combine comfort, durability, functionality, and stylea re a hot trend in workwear. Taking inspration from sprotswear and outdoor clothing, breathable fabrics and moisture-wicking technology have become increasingly popular to allow workers to remain cool and comfortable while on the job.

Customisation

Companies recognise that employees want workwear that is unique to them, so they offer a variety of customisation options such as color, design and fit. Workers are more willing to pay more for workwear that suits their personal style and comfort preferences.

Eco-friendly Choices

More and more employers are choosing workwear that is made from sustainable and eco-friendly materials and is sourced from a transparent and fair supply chain. And, it's not only about reducing the carbon footprint of the business. Most of us are wearing protective clothing and work uniforms for longer hours than our regular clothes. So, what kind of materials we clad ourselves in for the bigger part of a week is important. That's why the workforce is becoming more aware and more interested in workwear that gives them peace of mind with recycled fabrics that help save marine life, organic cotton, plant-based fibers that don't harm ancient forests or responsible leathers that are processed with natural dyes and metal-free tanning agents.

New Breeds of Safety Footwear

Work boots as a key part of workwear, and the trend towards fashionable and functional workwear has certainly impacted the design of safety shoes. For too long we had to live with work boots that were bulky and uncomfortable. They often were a source of frustration for employees. Today, safety boots are available in a wide range of styles and materials, and entirely new types of work boots have been added to the range. We see safety toes with a nod to skater shoes, hybrid styles between a hiking and a safety boot, streetwear style zipsider safety boots that are extra low-cut, or safety joggers like our KAMU® boots with Infinergy® that up the ante with performance materials from well-known sneaker brands. There are more and more safety boots that are designed to look and feel like everyday footwear, making them more appealing to employees who want workwear that is both comfy and looks great.

Employee Satisfaction and Engagement

Employers are not the only ones who are pushing for fashionable, functional workwear. Workers are taking an active interest in their workwear choices. The shift to fashionable, functional workwear has had a positive effect on workplace culture. Employees who feel confident and comfortable in their workwear are more likely to be engaged and motivated at work. This can result in higher productivity, less absenteeism, and better job satisfaction - all of which is so important in light of the current skills shortage.

Workwear has evolved a lot since the days of unattractive and uncomfortable uniforms. Employers are now investing in fashionable, functional, high-quality workwear that reflects the company's commitment to safety, well-being, ecological consciousness and employee engagement. The future of workwear looks brighter than ever thanks to the latest trends.

Move like an athlete: Infinergy® anti-fatigue technology

Thu, 23 Feb 2023 01:23:11 GMT

What if your boots could do some of the work for you?

The worksite hums, smoko has come and gone, the day’s heat seems relentless, and your feet ache with the weight of two besser blocks strapped to your feet. Sorry, two boots strapped to your feet. Heavy boots. Boots that seemed fine before the heat, sweat, and friction made them feel as comfortable as a barefoot stroll across hot coals.

Let those coals smoulder for a while as we journey to a place where a new type of safety footwear does something rather unconventional.

Gives you energy

KAMU® is the new kid on the (besser) block, an 18-strong range of purpose-built safety boots that are harnessing the benefits of Infinergy® – the world’s leading high-performance response material. The premise is simple, let the boot do some of the work for you.

But let us not get ahead of ourselves. This story begins with three sisters and an innovative collaboration with BASF Performance Materials.

The KAMU® story begins

Founders of the KAMU® brand in Australia are third generation sisters to the Berkat Safety family business. Operating for more than 50 years, Berkat Safety has pioneered quality safety footwear and PPE to keep workers safe across the Asia-Pacific. The company is a trusted supplier of safety boots for BASF plants in Asia, while BASF serves as a long-time supplier of sole materials for Berkat’s boot production. Born from that strong mutual relationship was a unique opportunity to develop a safety footwear range that blended advanced performance with long-term comfort.

What if your boots could do some of the work for you?

Enter, BASF Infinergy® – the world’s leading expanded thermoplastic polyurethane compound in a closed-cell, elastic particle foam. The technology has found fame in high-performance running shoes with its elastic property empowering movement with up to 57% energy return with every step.

Now, that same technology is packed into a safety boot. Imagine that, safety footwear that lets you move like an athlete.

In partnership with the BASF Performance Materials team in Asia, the design and development team set about optimising the benefits of Infinergy® to create a safety boot that really put a pep in your step. KAMU® uses the Infinergy® midsole technology across its entire range, where the material springs back to its original shape immediately following impact, generating energy and rebound to move you forward. It has durability in spades while maintaining the same elasticity, resilience, and cushioning even under continuous loads. And that performance doesn’t waver in temperatures as low as -20⁰C and as extreme as 40⁰C and more.

The first safety boot range in the Asia-Pacific with the Infinergy® technology says it all.

The next step in comfort and design

Therein lies the performance, but how comfortable can a safety boot really be? The next two years served as research and development from the ground up to redesign the safety boot for maximum comfort and fit. Standard safety footwear, as functional as it remains, is a product primed for improvement. An award-winning footwear design team was onboarded alongside an Australian consultancy specialising in branding performance material to drive the ship forward. Scrutinising the minutiae of safety footwear detail, from the seam stitching to the zipper angle, helped perfect all 18 models of the KAMU® safety boot range.

One of the more refined outcomes was the distinction between men’s and women’s boots, with few current models catering to the female workforce. Accounting for the differences in women’s feet such as a naturally higher arch, shorter outside foot length, and shallower big toe, to name a few, KAMU® developed three female-specific models in an effort to bridge that gap.

A safety boot that delivers all-round wellbeing in any condition requires a feature list that not only looks good, but functions beyond expectation.

Save our soles

The KAMU® four-layer, triple-density sole stands out for its next-level comfort, safety, durability, and energy rebound.

The anti-slip outsole is heat, fuel, and oil resistant, and features advanced abrasion resistance and greater bonding strength for an improved lifespan. The first layer midsole is made from a low-density, soft, and flexible polyurethane for enhanced comfort and support, followed by the Infinergy® midsole for the boot’s energy return. The ultra-lightweight ergonomic OrthoLite® insoles are washable and shock absorbent with thermal and dynamic comfort, particularly at the heel and metatarsus.

The lining

With style comes substance, and with KAMU® comes a choice of COOLMAX® or Sympatex® waterproof linings.

The COOLMAX® lining with wicking properties, is designed to keep feet dryer for longer by drawing away heat and moisture. Its antimicrobial quality is a worker’s best friend, inhibiting unpleasant odours for a healthy foot and a fresh step.

Sympatex®, the world’s thinnest membrane, is an optional lining made of non-porous material that keeps water on the right side of your boots. Constructed of billions of hydrophilic molecules, the breathable membrane retains optimal functionality regardless of the soaking it receives.

The lace-less look

A choice of KAMU® boots come with a quick fasten option with the Freelock® wire closure system, eliminating the need for shoelaces and ensuring a secure and safe fit. A simple twist of the Freelock® dial to tighten and loosen the boot is a fast and convenient way to get on with your day. Freelock® becomes a safer alternative to your standard laces, sometimes conducive to coming undone and creating a trip hazard or getting caught in machinery.

Next steps?

Discomfort drains your energy, so it was time to reinvent safety footwear for ultimate comfort and performance. The KAMU® safety footwear range comes with a host of functionalities to support your wellbeing and safety throughout your workday - it's about time to Reclaim Your Energy®.

KAMU® safety boots are comparably lighter than other models, and designed with an aesthetic that appeals to the modern-day worker regardless of industry. Every boot is certified to Australian standards while exceeding SRC slip resistance standards, the highest safety rating for safety boot outsoles.

Top tips for finding the right women's safety boot

Wed, 22 Feb 2023 07:54:39 GMT

Good question: is this a men's or women's safety boot?

The rise and rise of women in the construction and industrial workforce lends itself to an ever-increasing demand for safety gear designed specifically for women. Gone are the days of “one size fits all” when it comes to personal protective equipment, and boots are no different.

Manufacturers are aware of the fundamental differences between men’s and women’s feet, and an increasing range of women’s safety boots is hitting the market. And it’s not just the size that counts, but more profound anatomical variations that make designing women’s safety footwear all the more important.

The industry is slowly evolving beyond simply shrinking men’s boots for the female workforce, but what makes a comfortable, functional and well-fitting safety boot for women at work?

The best fit

An ill-fitting work shoe can be a painful nuisance and a big distraction on the job. What’s worse is that distraction can become a potential safety risk.

For a long day on the worksite, ergonomic safety footwear makes all the difference. Boots made from a specific female last should provide a better fit for women’s feet.

Not all feet are created equal; on average, women’s feet are shorter and narrower with a lower instep than men’s feet. Look for a boot with a naturally narrow design to eliminate that loose fit that frequently results in blistering, slippage and accelerated wear.

Naturally, women’s work boots with a smaller instep and shorter length will keep female workers on their feet for longer.

Arch support

Women generally have a higher arch, which means a safety boot or shoe designed with built-in arch support tends to provide greater all-round comfort and fit. Short of built-in support, a soft arch-supportive insole will help relieve foot stress.

For better arch support, orthopaedics recommend lace-up safety boots rather than pull-on or slip-in safety shoes. Work boots with a convenient and lace-less quick closure, like a Boa or Freelock wire systems, also ensure a safe and snug fit. This will reduce foot fatigue and limit abnormal movements, which goes a long way towards preventing over-pronation and painful injuries like joint pains in the knee and hip.

Ankle support

Women’s feet are shorter in the heel and ankle, which means an ill-designed safety boot won’t align correctly. Safety footwear specifically designed for women should provide ankle support at a height marginally lower than a work boot that’s designed for men.

Women’s safety boots should feature shorter ankle lengths to encourage mobility without conceding on safety. Is an ankle or high-top boot preferred? Either way, it is important to consider the work environment and choose a boot design that best suits.

Feet first

Finding the right fit is the best thing workers can do for their feet. With a differing foot anatomy, don’t just settle for a smaller men’s work boot. Not only will a female-specific safety boot feel better, it will provide greater protection and functionality to make any workday far more productive.

While considering the nature of the work and the safety standards required of the protective footwear, consider these handy tips for the next pair of safety boots.

Handy hints

Boots made from a specific female last provide a better fit.
Look for a boot with a naturally narrow design to avoid blistering, slippage and accelerated wear.
For better arch support, orthopaedics recommend lace-up safety boots rather than pull-on or slip-in safety shoes.

��We'd love to hear your thoughts on colours for women's boots - do you really all prefer pink?

Let us know below.

Where can you recycle safety boots and shoes?

Mon, 20 Feb 2023 09:04:31 GMT

tread lightly on the earth with your safety boots!

The week after Christmas and New Year's Day is always an interesting one. It’s the week when we are in a frenzy returning the gifts that don’t fit or work, only to buy more new stuff at boxing day sales, end-of-year sales, new-year-sales.

It’s also a week to set us up for a new start: a year where we can resolve to consume less. By buying less. By buying better: items with longer-lasting quality, products with a high ratio of recycled content and products that are circular. These can be designed to be recyclable, so they can either be downcycled, or even better be regenerated to a raw material or eq ual quality than virgin material. Biodegradable options are also super easy on the environment.

I love the newly introduced footwear recycling program by TreadLightly . You can now take your worn-out safety boots to workwear and safety supply outlets such as H ippocket Australia , A ccess Workwear and Safety , W orklocker outlets in Australia and many other safety footwear retailers.

See the full list of collection points at www.treadlightly.casga.com.au

What's coming in safety footwear 2023?

Mon, 30 Jan 2023 04:47:35 GMT

the latest trends in safety footwear and workwear

Sustainable materials:

With the growing efforts to lower the environmental impact, expect to see more safety footwear made from recycled, recyclable and bio-based materials. Leather still fits the bill as it is a natural byproduct that reduces waste. And leather still trumps with unbeatable performance, comfort and durability. Sustainable and responsibly sourced leathers with certifications from bodies such as Sustainable Leather Foundation, Leather Standards by Oekotex, or CSCB and will also be more present in new ranges, as well as renewable bio-based materials that are circular and that help eliminate plastics.

Customisation:

What happens in outdoor and athletic footwear is usually a precursor for developments that are likely to emerge in the safety boots industry. End-users demand more personalised products that better meet their job profile and personal preferences. Hiking brand Merrell released the Moab 3 model, which is more "size-inclusive". This includes more options for fit (with more wide width options as well as hard-to-find sizes), in an effort to make outdoor exploration more accessible to all. We think, this approach will also become stronger in protective footwear. More individual component upgrades, e.g. with lace-less BOA® or Freelock® technologies, or with enhanced waterproofing with Sympatex® or Gore-Tex® might also become more important. And, we notice more personal style choices, such as "ungendered" colourways and unique colour signatures.

Technology integration:

Built-in smart technologies have been here and there on the horizon. AI is ripe to enter in more industries this year and new applications in footwear will pop up, too. We have already seen workwear and exoskeletons equipped with GPS and also with advanced sensory AI technology to give the wearer ergonomics insights and actively correct the posture. Similarly, new footwear that monitors movement, gait, loads, and fatigue, combined with connectivity to safety alert apps are on the horizon. Other applications are safety boots and shoes with temperature regulation that enhances comfort for longer periods of time.

Fashion forward:

Or, let's call it Performance X Aesthetics! For some time now we have noticed that safety footwear doesn't have to look utilitarian and frumpy at all. Expect to see more streetwear and business-casual options where style and function go hand-in-hand. We've seen the most surprising collaborations for sleek statement looks in the sneaker category. Functional outdoor footwear already followed suit with collabs like A-COLD-WALL X Roa Hiking Boots. Or look at the latest images that have leaked last week of the Tiffany & Co. x Nike Air Force 1 Low. Another interesting one is between K Swiss and McLaren Racing to marry cutting-edge design with performance. Cool collaborations in safety footwear are in the making too!

Which developments in workwear and safety footwear are you anticipating most in 2023?

��Let us know in the comments!

Care Tips: Make your work boots last longer!

Fri, 13 Jan 2023 07:01:54 GMT

Have a clean start into the new year!

Heads up! We all love a chilled-out holiday season, and we hope you had one! Time to get your work gear sorted, and give your boots some hard-earned TLC. Here are five quick and easy steps to extend the lifespan of your safety shoes and ensure they stay comfy.

1. Wipe them down straight after use.
Only use a damp cloth, don't ever drench, rinse or soak leather in water! Then store them in a dry and cool place where they can air out. Dirt and moisture, but also drying them in direct sunlight, can cause work boots to wear out faster.

2. Use a leather conditioner.
This keeps the leather supple and prevents it from cracking or getting mouldy.

3. Check and replace the insoles.
Over time, the cushioning in your safety boots can break down and lose its support. If you notice your feet feeling more tired or sore, it might be time to switch out the insoles.
You may even want to invest in boots with quality insoles like Ortholite® - like our KAMU® boots! These insoles do not deteriorate and maintain the same level of shock absorption for years.

4. Keep the zipper clean.
Clean and lubricate the zip to keep it running smoothly. KAMU® safety boots have waterproof YKK zips that are low-maintenance because water, dirt and dust can't penetrate.

5. Rotate between different pairs of boots.
This gives each pair a chance to dry out, and the leather can relax and recover. You will see your safety boot will maintain a better fit!

��What's your tip for making your boots last longer? Let us know in the comments.