What is the steel shank in a work boot?

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A boot built with a steel shank has a thin piece of steel built in between the insole--the part that touches the foot, and the outsole--the part of the boot that touches the ground. It is shaped as a peg or runs the entire width of the sole.

Improvements

Boots today have added protection and safety features that were not available in previous generations. More and more styles and types of boots are available with additional support and protection in the form of a steel shank.

Purpose

The steel shank serves two purposes: protecting the foot from sharp penetrating objects such as nails and pointed sticks; and, helping to support of the arch when standing for prolonged periods on railed objects, such as a ladder rung.

Additional Support

The support a shank provides alleviates the arch from weight-bearing loads and redistributes even pressure across the bottom of the foot.

Other boots

Since its popularity began, steel shanks have been introduced in the soles of military, mountain climbing, cowboy and motorcycle boots.

Fun Fact

In addition to steel, shanks are also made from aluminum, hard plastics, composites and fiberglass. Many commercial boot manufacturers provide a line of footwear that incorporates the use of a steel shank in their products.

Source:

APMA: Footwear

Podiatry Today: Inside Insights on Shoewear Modification

U.S. Department of Labor: OSHA Regulation 1910.136

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What is the steel shank in a work boot?

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