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S1PS vs S3S: What's the difference between these two types of safety footwear?
Choosing the right safety footwear is essential to protect workers and comply with current regulations. The EN ISO 20345:2022 standard introduces classifications such as S1PS and S3S, which allow for more precise identification of footwear characteristics. Although both offer a high level of safety, there are important differences worth knowing before buying a pair.
What does the S1PS classification mean?
S1PS safety footwear is designed for work indoors or in dry environments, where there is no exposure to water or moisture and a more breathable work shoe is required.
S1PS footwear includes the following features:
- Safety toecap resistant to impacts of up to 200 joules.
- Antistatic properties.
- Energy absorption at the heel.
- Resistance to hydrocarbons in the sole, with the additional FO marking.
- Non-metallic penetration-resistant insole (PS).
The PS marking identifies footwear fitted with a non-metallic penetration-resistant insole, tested with a 3 mm nail in accordance with the most demanding requirements of the applicable standard.
What does the S3S classification mean?
S3S footwear includes all the features of S1PS, but adds extra protection against moisture, making it the ideal choice for outdoor work or more demanding environments.
In addition to all S1PS features, S3S includes:
- Water-resistant and water-repellent upper.
This makes it a suitable option for construction, agriculture, maintenance, outdoor logistics and other outdoor work. Even so, S3S does not mean the entire shoe is waterproof.
Main differences between S1PS and S3S
Which should I choose?
The choice mainly depends on the work environment and the specific risks of the job.
Choose S1PS footwear if:
- You work in warehouses or perform indoor logistics tasks.
- You work in dry workshops or facilities.
- You need protection against sharp objects, but not against regular moisture.
- You want a lightweight, breathable shoe, provided its features suit the job.
Choose S3S footwear if:
- You work in construction, maintenance or other outdoor activities.
- You're exposed to rain, splashes or wet surfaces.
- You need a water-resistant upper and a lugged sole.
- The job requires greater protection against environmental conditions.
The importance of the new EN ISO 20345:2022 standard
The updated standard distinguishes three types of penetration resistance, based on the sole material and the diameter of the nail used in testing.
- P: metallic insole, tested with a 4.5 mm nail.
- PL: non-metallic insole, tested with a 4.5 mm nail.
- PS: protection against small-diameter sharp objects.
As a result, the new S1PS and S3S designations are gradually replacing the old S1P and S3 categories, offering a more precise rating suited to current risks.
Although the two types of footwear may look similar at first glance, the key difference between S1PS and S3S lies in water resistance. S1PS is designed for dry, indoor environments, while S3S adds protection against moisture, making it the better option for outdoor work or more demanding conditions.
Before choosing a model...
Check the full marking on the footwear. In addition to S1PS or S3S, other requirements may be needed, such as FO for hydrocarbon resistance or SR for the additional slip-resistance test. This ensures adequate protection without sacrificing comfort or durability throughout the working day.
