Product Technical Information
UKCA/CE Certification – ISO EN 20345:2022 + A1:2024
EN ISO 20345:2022 + A1:2024 is the latest international safety footwear standard, harmonised for both CE (EU) and UKCA (UK) certification. It updates the 2011 version, introducing clearer requirements, new test methods, and revised markings to ensure safety footwear offers realistic and reliable protection.
All Buckbootz Safety Footwear is tested and certified to ISO EN 20345 safety standards and you will find both CE and UKCA marking on the inner labels of all our products.
S3 vs. S5 vs. S7 Safety Footwear Comparison
| Feature | S3 | S5 | S7 |
|---|---|---|---|
| Material Class | Class I (Leather/Textile) | Class II (All-rubber/Polymeric) | Class I (Leather/Textile) |
| Toe Protection | Yes (200J) | Yes (200J) | Yes (200J) |
| Antistatic Properties | Yes | Yes | Yes |
| Energy Absorption (Heel) | Yes | Yes | Yes |
| Puncture-Resistant Midsole | Yes | Yes | Yes |
| Cleated Outsole | Yes | Yes | Yes |
| Water Resistance (Upper) | Water-repellent upper (WPA) | Fully waterproof (material) | Fully waterproof (WR) |
Waterproof v Water Resistant
The majority of Buckbootz leather upper safety footwear is certified to a waterproof specification (S7 / WR). These styles feature a premium internal waterproof membrane that keeps feet dry while allowing breathability and moisture dissipation. All waterproof models undergo flex testing in a water tank, with the vamp area submerged past the toe cap, to ensure a minimum of 15,000 continuous flexes without leakage.
A smaller number of Buckbootz styles are certified to a water-resistant specification (S3 / WPA). While not fully waterproof, the uppers are treated to withstand light drizzle and splashes without leaking.
Rubber Neoprene v PU/PVC Wellingtons
Since their introduction in 2008, Buckbootz BBZ rubber neoprene designs have pioneered the concept of a full safety S5 wellington boot. Unlike injected polyurethane or PVC wellingtons, which often suffer from a loose, "floppy" fit that can place pressure on the ankles and feet—leading to trips and sprains—BBZ neoprene boots provide a snug, supportive fit. Neoprene lining also offers breathability and insulation, keeping feet comfortable in both cold and hot conditions.
Non-Metallic Specification
Over the past decade, rising demand for lighter PPE has driven Buckbootz to develop non-metallic safety components. Composite toe caps and anti-penetration midsoles deliver maximum protection while significantly reducing weight. These components also provide greater flexibility compared to steel, which, while strong, conducts electricity, heat, and cold.
Rubber Outsoles
Buckbootz has always believed that rubber outsoles must be durable and built to last. That's why every Buckbootz design incorporates a premium rubber outsole. Rubber is the material of choice for vehicle tyres for good reason: alternatives such as polyurethane (PU) and other thermoplastics have a short shelf life, degrade quickly, suffer from moisture breakdown (hydrolysis), and ultimately fail to deliver the grip and traction required.
Slip Resistance and Ladder Grips
Is slip resistance a mandatory feature in safety footwear?
Yes, under the updated EN ISO 20345:2022 + A1:2024 standard, a basic level of slip resistance is now a mandatory requirement for all safety footwear.
How is slip resistance tested?
Testing is conducted on a ceramic tile surface using a soap solution (sodium lauryl sulphate). Unlike older standards, the test now involves heel and forepart movements, better simulating natural walking.
What happened to the old SRA, SRB, and SRC ratings?
These ratings have been removed to avoid confusion and are replaced by the mandatory basic test.
What are ladder grips on safety footwear?
Ladder grips are specific design features on the outsole, typically in the ankle area, which have a transverse profile with a height of at least 1.5 mm. They are designed to provide enhanced grip on ladder rungs. Footwear that has been tested for grip on ladder rungs and meets the standard will carry the 'LG' marking.
We See You
The Buckbootz We See You campaign spearheaded by a great video illuminates how Buckbootz can shine a light in areas which other brands don't see. Buckbootz We See You collections are covered by our groundbreaking Buckzviz and BBZ6000NM/8000/9000 safety ranges. By providing 360 degrees hi visibility and safety reflective features, your footwear can be seen in all variable lighting conditions up to an impressive distance of 150 metres.
FITGO Lacing System
The Fitgo® wheel and cable lacing system brings quick and convenient fasten and loosen to footwear lacing. A boon to trades safety footwear users who require to quickly remove and re-fit their footwear. The Fitgo® system is tested to over 40kg weight pressure. This innovative lace fitting system is incorporated on the TRADEZ Wheelz designs and the groundbreaking Buckzviz BVIZ7 style.