Pull-on vs. Lace-up Work Boots and Shoes in Logistics: Pros and Cons

An independent study conducted by FedEx predicted that 1.29 billion parcels would be delivered during the peak season in 2024, an increase of 10.9% over the same period in 2023. This growth is largely the outcome of the boom in e-commerce in recent years. As a result, transport and logistics have become key players in meeting this demand. In order to maintain current figures and respond to new consumer expectations, it is particularly important to provide your workers with the necessary measures to ensure their comfort and safety on a daily basis. A delivery driver or courier’s working day typically lasts for many hours, and they are exposed to various risks to their physical and mental health.

Comfortable and safe footwear is essential for them to carry out their daily tasks in the best possible conditions, all of which affects their job satisfaction and productivity. Finding the right type of work boot or shoe is essential to your employees’ success. From pull-on to lace-up work boots and shoes, there is a wide range of footwear suitable for delivery and postal workers. However, which style is best? 

Read on to find out all the main advantages and disadvantages of pull-on vs. lace-up work boots for the logistics industry. 

The purpose of pull-on work boots vs. lace-up 

Pull-on boots or shoes are typically used by delivery drivers or couriers who work in mostly wet conditions. From narrow country lanes to busy city streets, drivers can encounter all kinds of terrain, whether in their vehicles or on foot. If their route involves making deliveries out to farms, rural homes or forests, a pull-on boot will help keep mud away from the goods.

Lace-up work boots are used by most workers, regardless of their industry. Logistics crews who work indoors and in dry conditions packing and loading boxes and parcels for delivery would benefit from lace-ups for the added support. 

It may be best to perform a logistics risk assessment at your workspace first to check for slip, trip and fall hazards among your employees before making a decision. 

Pull-on work boots 

1. Easy to slip on and off 

Pull-on boots and shoes are easy to slip on and take off, making transitions quick and painless. With no need to readjust or retie laces, your crews can focus on their task at hand and get the job done.

2. Protection 

This type of boot can protect the wearer from certain hazards that lace-up boots cannot. If your crew needs a boot that will safeguard them from water or harmful substances that could penetrate the shoe and cause injury, a pull-on boot is an excellent choice. They offer the best protection when working in dirty, muddy or wet conditions and many styles also come with steel or composite toe caps to guard against falling objects.

3. Construction and style 

This boot is usually designed in a mid-calf style. The absence of laces prevents unnecessary tightening and loosening, which can lead to deformities or changes in shape.  As a result, they retain their form better over time than lace ups and reduce stress on the structure. The lack of eyelets eliminates weak points that are usually prone to wear and tear or damage in lace-up boots.

4. Maintenance 

Pull-on boots and shoes offer some unique features that set them apart from lace-up boots, by far the easiest being clean up and maintenance. Since they are quick to slip on and off, many boots are made from easy-to-clean materials that make removing dirt, mud and other debris a breeze. 

Lace-up work boots

1. Comfort 

Lace-up boots or shoes are usually made with low-necks that hug the ankle and provide excellent support. Leather or leather-like lace-up boots are often the most comfortable. Many come with removable, cushioned insoles to give the wearer even more comfort during long, tiring shifts. With the ability to loosen or tighten the laces, this style can feel less heavy than pull-on boots. 

2. Protection 

Rain, snow, temperature extremes, uneven terrain and surfaces and possible obstructions on the road can increase the risk of accidents. At Shoes For Crews, we are known for our slip-resistant technology that provides optimum support and stability. In addition to comfort, lace-up boots offer better ankle protection and can be tightened for a secure fit. Some styles may have energy-absorbing heels to reduce back pain and fully support the foot. 

3. Construction and style 

Lace-up boots and shoes have an adjustable lacing system, which means they can accommodate a variety of foot sizes and shapes. They are generally made from leather, synthetic materials or a mixture of both. They offer a snugger fit than pull-on styles, conforming to the shape of the wearer’s foot. 

4. Maintenance 

Maintaining and cleaning a pair of lace-up boots can be a bit more time-consuming than slip-on boots and shoes. Depending on the type of material they are made from, we recommend wiping them down with a clean cloth and using either oil or lotion to condition the leather. Leave them to dry in a clean and arid spot, but not directly in the sun. Check the laces from time to time for wear and tear and unravelled threads and replace when necessary.

Whichever type you choose for your employees, pull-on and lace-up boots will support their feet and help prevent slips, trips and falls on the job. By implementing proper safety measures and equipment, risks can be reduced, creating a safer work environment. If you would like to find out more about the different features of pull-on and lace-up boots mentioned in this post, please contact one of our footwear specialists. Or browse our full range to see more of our styles.