FAQ

Choosing a Shoe

  • What are the Indian standards of safety shoe classification and what are their European counterparts?

    INDIAN STANDARDSEUROPEAN STANDARDS
    IS 15298: PART I 2015EN ISO 20344: 2011 (covers basic safety shoe parameters)
    IS 15298: PART II 2016EN ISO 20345: 2011 (basic + 200 Joules safety toe cap)
    IS 15298: PART III 2016EN ISO 20346: 2011 (basic + 100 Joules safety toe cap)
    IS 15298: PART IV 2017EN ISO 20347: 2012 (covers some extra safety features)
  • How is a safety shoe different than a regular shoe?

    Safety shoes provide foot protection on various parameters like sharp objects, falling heavy objects, electrical hazards, slipping etc.

  • How do l determine the proper shoe for my needs?

    It depends on the application for which you would need one, for which our safety expert / safety shoe mobile application can guide you.

  • How do l geta proper fit when purchasing shoes?

    We do have a size chart which can guide you to pick a size for yourself and others. Whereas for corporate purchase we recommend a size kit trial before placing final orders.

  • Does fitting differ with brands?

    Yes, different brands use last sizes (Last is like a mould that gives the shoe its 3-Dimensional figure). For a better fit it is recommended to try out shoes when switching from one brand to another.

  • What are the different technical standards of safety shoes?

    IS -Indian Standards, Safety shoe are according to IS 15298 Standard
    IS- Indian Standards, PVC safety shoe are according to 1S 14544 Standard
    EN - European Standards, Safety shoe are according to IS 20345 Standard

  • Which are the most sought after designing/certifying agencies in India & globally?

    INDIA:

    NABL (National Accreditation Board for Testing and Calibration Laboratories), is the parent organization for accrediting certifying agencies in India like,
    FDDI (Foot Design Development Institutes)
    CLI (Central Labour Institute)
    CLRI, Chennai (Central Leather Research Institute)
    NTH (National Test House)
    NPL (National physical laboratory)

    GLOBAL MAJORS:

    INTERTEK
    PFI
    COTECNA

  • What are the various certification determined for safety shoes?

    SymbolRequirementsSBS1S2S3S3LS3SS6S7S7LS7S
    -Basic RequirementsXXXXXXXXXX
    -Slip resistance on ceramic tile floors with SLSXXXXXXXXXX
    ØSlip resistance not tested (e.g. shoes with metal spikes)OXXXXXXXXX
    -Closed sear regionOXXXXXXXXX
    AAntistatic footwearOXXXXXXXXX
    EEnergy absorption of seat regionOXXXXXXXXX
    WPAWater penetration and absorptionOOXXXXXXXX
    WRWater resistanceOOOOOOXXXX
    PPerforation resistance: metal insertOOOX--OX--
    PLPerforation resistance: non-metal insert: 4.5 mm nailOOO-X-O-X-
    PSPerforation resistance: non-metal insert: 3.0 mm nailOOO--XO--X
    -Cleated outsideOOOXXXOXXX

    X = mandatory,0 = optional, - = not necessary/possible

  • Importance of ergonomics in safety shoes

    Ergonomics in safety shoes is important because it ensures proper support, reduces fatigue, and prevents injuries by aligning with the natural movement and structure of the feet.

  • Is being lightweight sufficient for safety shoes, or does ergonomics also play a crucial role?

    Being lightweight is important for comfort, but ergonomics is also crucial as it ensures proper support, reduces fatigue, and prevents injuries

Footwear Construction

  • What are the different composition of a shoe sole?

    Shoe sole composition comes in PVC, Rubber, Polyurethane & Thermoplastic-Polyurethane.

  • What is Poly-Urethane?

    Poly-Urethane is a mixture of Polyol and Iso-cyanite and is the most widely used soles in safety shoe.

  • From where does ACME procure Poly-Urethane?

    We are one of the largest consumers of Poly-Urethane in safety shoes segment in India, buying from the World-renowned German-based BASF.

  • What are the different types of shoe outsoles?

    Single density PU, Double density PU-PU, Double density PU-TPU, Double density PU-Rubber, Triple density nitrile, Nitrile Rubber, PVC

  • What is TPU?

    Thermoplastic polyurethane (TPU) is any of a class of polyurethane plastics.

  • Benefits of TPU?

    Increased elasticity, resistance to oil, grease and abrasion, better performance in changing weather conditions.

  • Benefits of Rubber? How much temperature resistant can Rubber Sole give?

    Increased temperature resistance and traction. Up to 300°C

  • What is a PVC Sole?

    Molecules of vinyl chloride monomers combine to make long chain molecules of polyvinyl chloride. This synthetic polymer is relatively cheap and easy to mold.

  • What is Nitrile Rubber Sole?

    Is a synthetic rubber copolymer of acrylonitrile (ACN) and butadiene, provides increased puncture and temperature resistance.

  • Is a double-density shoes superior to a single-density shoe?

    Please refer to ACME’s comparison charts

  • Which outsole is most superior?

    We have charts comparing different sole types on various parameters.

  • What are different types of insoles?

    There are regular non-woven antistatic insoles, non-woven non-anti-static insoles and carbon insoles basis of the application of shoes.

  • What is Ortho-Comfort?

    The dynamic arch design adapts to all foot shapes redistributing heel, ball and toe pressure for maximum support and comfort.

  • What is Anti-Perforation Insole?

    Anti Perforation Insole protects the foot from injury from sharp objects by means of inserting a level of protection in-between the insole. There are two options: Kevlar that is much lighter and capable of protecting 100% of the foot surface as compared to 85% by the classic steel mid-plate, which is metallic and thus heavier.

  • Which leather provides smooth finish?

    CS PRINT & OIL PULL UP Leather

  • What is split leather? What is grain leather?

  • What is synthetic leather?

    Leather types which are made from PVC or PU with bonded lamination backing.

  • What is micro-fiber? Is it eco-friendly?

    The full name of the Micro-fibre leather is "microfiber-reinforced PU leather", which is an artificial leather made of PU leather (polyurethane leather) added with microfiber, and its toughness, abrasion resistance and air permeability are improved. It is completely biodegradable and chrome free.

  • Which leather can be water repellent?

    All leather prints are available with us in water-repellant variants. It is called DIN leather and protects the shoe against exposure to water up to 60 minutes. All shoes marked from S2 upwards have water-repellent uppers.

  • What is Triple density?

    Sole technology with three distinct layers: Midsole1, Midsole2, and Outsole, each offering varying densities. This design enhances stability, comfort, and safety by providing targeted cushioning, support, and durability.

  • What is Surge-Sense Technology?

    High-performance responsive E-TPU material, predominantly composed of closed-cell bead foam in expanded thermoplastic polyurethane (E-TPU), ensures exceptional durability and cushioning. Another advantage is the material's exceptional long-term durability, significantly outperforming conventional midsole materials.

  • Why is Surge-Sense more comfortable?

    Provides a high-strength and high-elasticity alternative. Its superior energy return and lightweight nature deliver next-level comfort and flexibility.

  • Why memory foam insocks is recommended for extra comfort?

    It is recommended for extra comfort because they conform to the shape of your feet, providing personalized support and cushioning that reduces pressure and enhances overall comfort.

  • What are Fasteners?

    Fasteners are clipped holes or D-Rings through which laces are passed for fastening.

  • Types of man-made/synthetic Lining used and how is it different?

    HONEYCOMB, CAMBRELLE & SPACER. Spacer is superior to the former two as it has foam padding in between the two linings.

  • What is thermoplastic counter?

    Thermoplastic is a plastic material used in counter. The shoe retains its shape and function and is more durable and resistant to wear and tear.

  • What is toe-spring?

    Toe spring is the elevation of your shoe's toe box above the ground or supporting surface.

  • What is ball-girth?

    Wrap the measuring tape around your foot, so that you would basically stand on the tape with your inner ball (the one behind your big toe). The tape should move straight across your foot. It may wrap around your small toe.

  • What is a steel toe?

    It is a metal cap that is strategically integrated in the shoe to protect your toes from falling objects.

  • What level of protection does a steel toe provide to the wearer?

    Depending on toe-cap specification, it can provide impact resistance of 200J, 140J or 100Joules
    *200 Joules= An object weighing 20 kg falling on ground from a height of 1 meter / an object of 2 kg falling from a height of 10 meters

    TESTS:
    On Impact- there should be min. 14 mm distance between the foot and the cap for size 8
    On compression- there should be min. 14 mm distance between the foot and the cap for size 8

  • What is a composite toe?

    It is a non-metal toe-cap, which could be made of Kevlar, carbon fiber or plastic.

  • Which is better, a steel toe or a composite toe?

    Both may provide the same level of protection, though non-steel toe-caps are much lighter.

  • What type of work is a composite toe shoe best suited for?

    Where metal free shoe is required like airport security etc., or where probability of shock is more, since metal is good conductor of electricity the wearer is more prone to shock if he is wearing a metal toe-cap.

  • What solution to give for concentrated acid falling from Top?

    Gumboot

  • What is 100% Metal Free Design?

    Shoe not containing any metal fixtures- be it fasteners, mid-plate or toe-cap.

  • Is there a lace free safety shoe?

    Yes, Slip-Ons are available.

  • Why flat laces are preferred over round laces?

    Because they tend to stay tied better, distribute pressure more evenly, and are less likely to come undone.

  • What are the different electrical parameters on which safety shoes are made?

    Shoes can be either Antistatic, ESD or Shockproof

  • What is ESD?

    Shoes allowing Electro Static Discharge between ranges: 105 - 35*106 Ohms

  • What is Antistatic?

    Shoes allowing Electro Static Discharge between ranges: 105 -109 Ohms

  • What is Slip Resistance?

    Slip resistance (SR): This additional requirement tests the slip resistance of the safety shoes on ceramic tiles with glycerine. When the heel slides forward, a coefficient of friction of >= 0.19 mm is allowed. When the front part of the shoe slides backwards, a coefficient of friction of >= 0.22 mm is allowed.

  • What is co-efficient of friction?

    A coefficient of friction is a value that shows the relationship between the force of friction between two objects and the normal reaction between the objects that are involved.

  • What is shelf life?

    It is the time when the shoes are not in use, packed & placed on shelf.

  • What is average weight of safety shoes?

    Dependent on factors like density, composition and size.

  • What is covered under the manufacturing warranty of the shoes?

    • a. Detachment of sole from upper
    • b. Development of Cracks the sole
    • c. Abrasion of sole
  • What is flaking of sole?

    Development of Cracks the sole

  • What is abrasion of sole?

    Scraping or wearing of sole

  • What is sustainable footwear?

    Sustainable footwear is designed and produced with minimal environmental impact, using eco-friendly materials and processes to reduce waste and promote recyclability.

  • Why are ACME shoes costly?

    Due to the use of imported raw materials, collaboration with international designers, and valid EN certifications, our products ensure superior quality and compliance with global standards.

  • CARE:

    Proper leather shoe treatment not only makes your shoes look good, but it also preserves the natural material, adding to their life. Without proper conditioning and care, leather dries out, eventually cracking and falling apart, leaving your shoes and boots an unsightly mess. Throwing a coat of shoe polish on them now again does help. But in order to maintain the supple appearance of your leather goods, you must keep them clean, conditioned, polished, and weatherproofed

Process Driven

  • What is DIP?

    Direct Injection Process, is a process of soling shoes under highly controlled parameters. We at ACME use the most advanced German-make DESMA machines to carry out the process of injection. To know more about this you may refer to the datasheet on DIP shoes.

  • What is Pouring?

    Pouring again is a method for soling, which on the contrary is carried out in a more open and less controlled environment. Shoes produced are a level inferior than those done on DIP process.

  • Difference between DIP & Pouring?

    Refer to our catalogue