Construction

Construction work applies to anyone in the general contracting, construction, installation, surveying, and other related fields who spend the majority of their work day on construction or job sites.

Many construction environments involve standing for long periods of time, frequent moving and walking, and working on rough or uneven terrain and unfinished surfaces, all of which contribute to sore feet at best or outright pain at worst.

Proper foot support, foot stability, and cushioning are all key when it comes to alleviating and preventing pain and discomfort from construction work. It’s essential that the arches of your feet are well-supported all day long to ensure that your feet don’t suffer from excess strain as you perform your work. When walking and standing, especially on even or unfinished surfaces, proper heel and ankle support are important for ensuring that your ankles and heels don’t overcompensate for poor stability. And lastly, a good amount of cushioning helps alleviate pressure on the feet, absorb impact shock on hard surfaces like concrete or gravel, and ensure that roomier work boots fit snugly to prevent foot movement that cause blisters.

An insole for construction work is designed to work best in work boots and will feature a flexible or semi-rigid arch support, plenty of overall cushioning, and a deep heel cup for better heel and ankle support. Depending on the type of work boot you wear, you may want to opt for slightly more or less cushioning on your insole; the more cushioning you have, the more volume the insole will take up in your boots. Your feet should feel snug but never tight inside your boots.

• Depending on climate and weather, many work sites may be damp. Where possible, ensure that your work boots are able to keep your feet dry at all times.
• Additionally, work sites may be very hot or very cold. Adding foot warmers to your boots in the winter can help to keep your feet warm, and breathable boots in the summer (if permitted) can help keep your feet cool.
• A good pair of socks goes a long way in providing additional comfort to your work boots, and can help provide insulation in the winter especially.
• Foot sleeves that can be worn under socks can help to add additional foot support beyond what insoles will be able to provide on their own.
• Foot massaging rollers or foot stretchers can help to alleviate strain and soreness that you might feel after a long day of work.