What Are S1, S2, and S3 Safety Shoes? An EN ISO 20345 Guide for PPE Buyers

A warehouse buyer selects S1 safety shoes because the work takes place indoors. A construction distributor orders S3 boots for outdoor customers. Both choices sound reasonable—until the warehouse develops a puncture hazard from damaged pallets and the supposedly “waterproof” S3 boot allows moisture through during prolonged rain.

The problem is not necessarily poor footwear. It may be a misunderstanding of what S1, S2, and S3 actually mean.

These codes are safety classifications associated with EN ISO 20345. They help buyers identify groups of tested properties, but they do not describe every feature of a shoe. S1 does not simply mean “basic.” S2 does not automatically mean waterproof. S3 does not mean the footwear protects against every industrial hazard.

The classifications have also evolved. EN ISO 20345:2022 introduced clearer distinctions for metallic and non-metallic penetration-resistant inserts, revised slip-resistance marking, and added S6 and S7 classes for waterproof footwear. Buyers may now encounter codes such as S1P, S1PL, S1PS, S3, S3L, S3S, S6, S7, S7L, and S7S.

For importers, distributors, safety managers, and procurement specialists, understanding these markings is essential. Selecting the wrong class can lead to unsuitable PPE, inaccurate product claims, failed tenders, worker complaints, and avoidable commercial risk.

This guide explains:

• What EN ISO 20345 covers
• The difference between SB, S1, S2, and S3 safety footwear
• What P, PL, and PS mean
• The difference between water-resistant uppers and waterproof shoes
• How the 2022 standard differs from the 2011 version
• How to select safety shoes for different industries
• Which materials and technologies matter
• What B2B buyers should verify before purchasing

What Is EN ISO 20345?

EN ISO 20345 is a European standard for general-purpose safety footwear equipped with protective toe caps.

The current European edition is EN ISO 20345:2022, based on ISO 20345:2021. Amendment A1:2024 is also relevant to current product development and conformity documentation.

The European Commission has published EN ISO 20345:2022 as a harmonised standard supporting Regulation (EU) 2016/425 on personal protective equipment. Using the harmonised standard can provide a presumption of conformity with the essential health and safety requirements it covers. (EUR-Lex: Harmonised PPE standards)

EN ISO 20345 addresses basic and optional footwear requirements involving areas such as:

• Protective toe performance
• Mechanical risks
• Slip resistance
• Ergonomic behaviour
• Thermal risks
• Electrical properties
• Water performance
• Penetration resistance
• Outsole characteristics
• Material safety

The standard is not a workplace risk assessment. It gives manufacturers and buyers a common technical language, but the employer or PPE decision-maker must still determine which features are appropriate for the actual work.

The 200-Joule Toe-Cap Principle

Safety footwear under EN ISO 20345 uses protective toe caps designed to meet the standard’s impact and compression requirements. The category is commonly associated with a 200-joule impact test.

The toe cap may be manufactured from:

• Steel
• Aluminium
• Fiberglass
• Carbon composite
• Reinforced polymer

The standard tests performance rather than requiring one particular material. A certified composite toe can therefore provide the required protection even though it is not steel.

Understanding SB: The Starting Point

Before comparing S1, S2, and S3, it is useful to understand SB, meaning Safety Basic.

SB footwear meets the fundamental safety-footwear requirements, including the protective toe-cap requirements and other basic provisions of the standard.

SB is not necessarily poor-quality footwear. It is simply the starting classification. Additional properties can be added and marked separately.

However, most general industrial buyers require more than SB because workplace applications often call for closed heel areas, antistatic performance, heel energy absorption, upper water resistance, or penetration protection.

What Are S1 Safety Shoes?

S1 safety shoes combine the basic requirements with several additional features associated with enclosed industrial footwear.

Under EN ISO 20345:2022, S1 footwear generally includes:

• Basic safety-toe protection
• Closed heel area
• Antistatic properties
• Energy absorption in the heel area

Where Are S1 Safety Shoes Used?

S1 footwear is commonly considered for dry indoor workplaces such as:

• Warehouses
• Logistics centres
• Assembly facilities
• Light manufacturing
• Packaging operations
• Automotive workshops
• Indoor maintenance
• Distribution centres

An S1 safety sneaker can be an appropriate choice for employees who spend much of the shift walking on dry warehouse floors, provided no additional hazards require puncture protection, waterproofing, or other features.

What S1 Does Not Automatically Include

S1 does not automatically mean that the shoe is:

• Penetration resistant
• Waterproof
• Suitable for standing water
• Heat-resistant
• ESD certified
• Electrically insulating
• Chemically resistant
• Suitable for every slippery floor

Under the 2022 standard, fuel and oil resistance of the outsole—marked FO—is an optional requirement. Buyers should not assume that every new S1 product includes FO unless it is marked and documented.

S1, S1P, S1PL, and S1PS

The additional letters identify penetration protection.

S1P

S1P footwear includes S1 properties plus penetration resistance using a metallic insert tested under the applicable P requirement.

S1PL

S1PL uses a non-metallic penetration-resistant insert tested with the larger 4.5 mm test nail.

S1PS

S1PS uses a non-metallic insert subjected to the more demanding test involving a smaller 3.0 mm nail.

These distinctions are important for metal-free product specifications. A buyer should not describe every flexible textile midsole simply as “Kevlar protection” and assume equal performance. The certificate and test report should state whether the product meets PL or PS.

What Are S2 Safety Shoes?

S2 safety shoes build on S1 by adding resistance to water penetration and absorption in the upper.

In simplified terms, S2 generally provides:

• Basic safety-toe protection
• Closed heel area
• Antistatic properties
• Heel energy absorption
• Water penetration and absorption resistance of the upper

Under the newer marking system, upper resistance to water penetration and absorption may be identified by WPA.

Where Are S2 Safety Shoes Used?

S2 may be suitable for:

• Food distribution
• Light outdoor duties
• Warehouses with occasional wet exposure
• Cleaning operations
• Transport
• Commercial kitchens
• Healthcare
• General manufacturing
• Delivery work

A full-grain leather S2 shoe can resist occasional splashes better than a breathable S1 mesh model. However, S2 does not automatically mean the complete shoe is waterproof.

Is S2 Waterproof?

No.

This is one of the most common safety footwear misunderstandings.

S2 addresses the water penetration and absorption performance of the upper material. Moisture may still enter through areas such as:

• Tongue opening
• Stitching
• Collar
• Seams
• Closure
• Upper-to-sole construction

If workers face sustained rain, standing water, or prolonged wet conditions, look for footwear with whole-shoe water resistance marked WR and an appropriate waterproof construction.

Under EN ISO 20345:2022, S6 was introduced to identify footwear that combines S2-type properties with waterproof whole-footwear performance.

What Are S3 Safety Shoes?

S3 is one of the most widely specified categories for construction, engineering, outdoor work, and general heavy industry.

In simplified terms, S3 safety footwear combines:

• S2 properties
• Penetration resistance
• A cleated outsole

That means S3 generally includes:

• Protective toe cap
• Closed heel area
• Antistatic properties
• Heel energy absorption
• Water-resistant upper performance
• Penetration-resistant insert
• Cleated outsole

Where Are S3 Safety Shoes Used?

S3 industrial safety shoes and boots are commonly selected for:

• Construction
• Civil engineering
• Manufacturing
• Agriculture
• Utilities
• Road maintenance
• Landscaping
• Outdoor logistics
• Workshops
• Mining support services
• General industrial maintenance

The combination of toe protection, underfoot protection, upper water resistance, and a cleated outsole makes S3 a practical category for workplaces with mixed hazards.

S3, S3L, and S3S

Under EN ISO 20345:2022, S3 classifications distinguish among penetration-resistant insert types.

S3

S3 indicates metallic penetration resistance under the P requirement.

S3L

S3L indicates a non-metallic insert tested under PL with a 4.5 mm nail.

S3S

S3S indicates a non-metallic insert tested under PS with a smaller 3.0 mm nail.

This distinction gives professional buyers more information about the underfoot protection.

A flexible non-metallic insert can reduce weight and improve flexibility, but not all textile inserts provide identical performance. The smaller nail can create a more demanding test because it concentrates force over a smaller area.

Is S3 Waterproof?

Not necessarily.

S3 includes upper water penetration and absorption resistance, but it does not automatically establish whole-footwear waterproof performance.

A traditional S3 leather boot may perform well in occasional rain or wet grass, but water can still enter through the tongue, seams, or collar during prolonged exposure.

For certified waterproof protection under the 2022 structure, buyers should examine S7, S7L, or S7S classifications and the WR marking.

S1 vs S2 vs S3 Safety Shoes: Quick Comparison

This table is a practical summary. Buyers should always read the certificate and applicable standard rather than using it as a substitute for technical documentation.

The Difference Between EN ISO 20345:2011 and 2022

The transition from the 2011 edition to EN ISO 20345:2022 created several changes that affect distributors, importers, and product managers.

New Penetration-Resistance Codes

The 2011 system commonly used P without clearly communicating different test-nail sizes for non-metallic inserts.

The 2022 system uses:

• P for metallic inserts
• PL for non-metallic inserts tested with a 4.5 mm nail
• PS for non-metallic inserts tested with a 3.0 mm nail

This resulted in categories such as S1PL, S1PS, S3L, and S3S.

Slip-Resistance Marking Changed

Under the older system, buyers commonly saw:

• SRA
• SRB
• SRC

Under EN ISO 20345:2022, basic slip resistance is incorporated into the fundamental requirements. An additional slip test is marked SR.

A new certificate should not be rejected simply because SRC is absent. SRC belongs to the previous marking system.

WRU Became WPA

The older WRU marking referred to water penetration and absorption resistance of the upper.

The newer term is WPA.

WPA still should not be confused with WR. WPA relates to the upper, while WR relates to the complete footwear.

FO Became Optional

Fuel and oil resistance of the outsole, marked FO, is no longer automatically assumed from classifications in the same way many buyers interpreted the older system.

If fuel and oil resistance matters, check for the FO marking and supporting test result.

New Waterproof Categories

S6 and S7 were added to provide clearer whole-footwear water-resistance classifications.

• S6 broadly combines S2-type properties with WR.
• S7 combines S3-type properties with WR.
• S7L and S7S distinguish non-metallic penetration-insert performance.

Why Old and New Markings Still Appear

Products certified under EN ISO 20345:2011 may remain in distribution while valid certification and legal arrangements continue to support them. At the same time, new development increasingly follows EN ISO 20345:2022 and A1:2024.

Buyers should avoid mixing terminology from the two editions in the same product description.

What Are Safety Shoes and Why Are They Important?

Safety shoes are PPE designed to reduce injuries caused by workplace hazards that ordinary footwear cannot adequately control.

Protection may address:

• Falling objects
• Rolling loads
• Compression
• Sharp objects underfoot
• Slippery surfaces
• Static electricity
• Specified electrical hazards
• Water
• Heat and cold
• Fuel and oil
• Selected chemicals

Safety footwear is used in construction, logistics, manufacturing, warehousing, mining, engineering, oil and gas, agriculture, utilities, transportation, and food production.

Even when a workplace requires S3 footwear, the employer should not treat PPE as the only control. Hazards should also be managed through safe equipment, traffic separation, housekeeping, spill control, guarding, training, and work procedures.

Different Safety Shoe Technologies Within S1, S2, and S3

The S classification describes grouped performance properties. It does not require a particular material or appearance.

Steel Toe Safety Shoes

Steel toe caps offer:

• Proven impact performance
• Thin protective structure
• High durability
• Competitive cost

They are common in S1, S2, and S3 industrial footwear for manufacturing, construction, and heavy engineering.

Composite Toe Safety Shoes

Composite or fiberglass toe caps offer:

• Lower weight in many designs
• Metal-free construction
• Reduced thermal conductivity
• Compatibility with security-sensitive workplaces

They are popular in lightweight S1PS warehouse shoes and S3S metal-free work boots.

Slip Resistant Safety Shoes

Slip resistance depends on:

• Outsole compound
• Tread design
• Contact area
• Surface
• Contaminant
• Worker movement

S1, S2, and S3 classifications should not be treated as guarantees against every slip. Look for appropriate slip-test results and conduct workplace trials where possible.

Waterproof Safety Shoes

Waterproof footwear usually uses:

• Water-resistant leather or synthetic upper
• Waterproof bootie or membrane
• Sealed seams
• Seam-sealing tape
• Gusseted tongue
• Controlled upper-to-sole construction

S6 or S7 footwear is more relevant when whole-footwear waterproof certification is required.

Electrical Hazard and ESD Safety Shoes

Antistatic performance included in S1, S2, and S3 is not the same as:

• ESD certification
• Conductive footwear
• Electrical-hazard footwear
• Electrically insulating footwear

Electrical requirements must be specified separately and verified against the applicable test method.

How to Choose Between S1, S2, and S3 Safety Shoes

1. Consider the Work Environment

Dry Warehouses

S1 may be suitable when workers face toe hazards but no significant water or penetration risk.

If damaged pallets or sharp debris are common, consider S1P, S1PL, or S1PS.

Factories

S1 or S1P-type footwear may suit dry manufacturing. S2 may be more appropriate where splashes occur. S3 may be necessary where sharp metal debris or more demanding surfaces are present.

Construction Sites

S3, S3L, or S3S is commonly considered because construction sites may involve:

• Nails
• Sharp debris
• Uneven ground
• Wet conditions
• Falling materials

If prolonged water exposure is expected, consider S7 rather than assuming S3 is waterproof.

Outdoor Jobs

S2 can address occasional moisture where puncture hazards are absent. S3 adds penetration resistance and a cleated outsole. S6 and S7 provide clearer whole-footwear water resistance.

2. Identify the Actual Hazards

Ask:

• Is toe protection required?
• Is there a puncture hazard?
• Will the upper be exposed to water?
• Is the complete shoe expected to remain waterproof?
• Are floors contaminated by oil?
• Is additional slip performance required?
• Is heat-resistant outsole performance necessary?
• Is ESD control required?
• Is metal-free construction required?

The answers determine the classification and optional markings.

3. Consider Comfort and Fit

Workers may wear safety footwear for eight to twelve hours.

Evaluate:

• Correct length
• Adequate width
• Toe clearance
• Heel retention
• Breathability
• Cushioning
• Flexibility
• Shoe weight
• Compatibility with socks
• Orthotic requirements

An S3S boot that fits poorly is not a good purchasing decision simply because it has a higher classification than an S1 shoe.

4. Evaluate Durability

Inspect:

• Upper material
• Leather thickness
• Reinforcements
• Stitching
• Sole bonding
• Outsole abrasion performance
• Closure quality
• Waterproof construction
• Scuff protection

Durability is not guaranteed by the classification alone. S3 describes safety properties, not the complete expected service life.

5. Check the Standard Edition

The label and certificate should clearly state whether the footwear is certified to:

• EN ISO 20345:2011
• EN ISO 20345:2022
• EN ISO 20345:2022+A1:2024

Do not interpret the markings without knowing the applicable edition.

Safety Shoe Materials and Their Applications

Full-Grain Leather

Full-grain leather offers:

• Durability
• Structure
• Abrasion resistance
• Good water resistance when treated
• Premium appearance

It is widely used for S2, S3, S6, and S7 work boots.

Nubuck Leather

Nubuck leather provides durability with a softer surface. It is popular in premium construction and Australian-style safety boots.

Split Leather

Split leather can provide economical durability for general industrial S1 and S3 footwear.

Microfiber

Microfiber offers:

• Consistent thickness
• Easy cleaning
• Low weight
• Flexible colour options
• Reliable production consistency

It is often used in S1 and S2 safety shoes for logistics, food distribution, and light industry.

Mesh and Knitted Textiles

Mesh and flyknit uppers improve breathability and reduce weight. They are suitable for S1 and S1PS sport safety shoes used in dry indoor environments.

PU/PU Outsoles

Dual-density PU/PU soles provide:

• Low weight
• Shock absorption
• Flexibility
• Efficient injected production

They are common across S1, S2, and S3 industrial shoes.

PU/TPU Outsoles

PU/TPU constructions combine cushioning with a hard-wearing TPU contact surface.

EVA/Rubber Outsoles

EVA offers lightweight cushioning, while rubber contributes traction, heat resistance, and abrasion performance.

PU/Rubber Outsoles

PU/rubber combines a shock-absorbing midsole with a durable rubber outsole, making it useful for demanding industrial and outdoor footwear.

Common Mistakes When Buying S1, S2, or S3 Safety Shoes

Assuming S3 Is Always Better

S3 provides more grouped protection, but it can add weight, stiffness, warmth, and cost.

Solution: Select the class that matches the hazard assessment.

Calling S2 or S3 Waterproof

Upper water resistance is not the same as whole-footwear waterproofing.

Solution: Look for WR and appropriate S6 or S7 classification when complete waterproof performance is required.

Ignoring P, PL, and PS

Different penetration inserts and tests should not be described as identical.

Solution: Read the complete classification and test report.

Mixing 2011 and 2022 Markings

A product description may incorrectly combine SRC, S3S, WRU, and newer terminology.

Solution: Use markings belonging to the same edition of the standard.

Assuming Antistatic Means Electrical Protection

Antistatic footwear is not electrically insulating footwear.

Solution: Conduct a specific electrical risk assessment and choose the correct category.

Choosing Price Over Quality

Two S3 shoes can use very different leather, cushioning, closures, and production quality.

Solution: Compare materials, construction, fit, inspection, and total service value.

Ignoring Comfort

A technically compliant shoe may still be uncomfortable.

Solution: Conduct fitting and wear trials before bulk purchasing.

Failing to Verify Certification

A certificate may apply to a different upper, outsole, factory, or model.

Solution: Match the certificate and test report to the exact product.

Benefits of Investing in Quality S1, S2, and S3 Safety Shoes

Better Hazard Matching

Clear classifications help procurement teams select footwear for dry, wet, indoor, outdoor, and puncture-risk environments.

Reduced Injury Risk

Correct toe, penetration, slip, and environmental protection can reduce the likelihood or severity of foot injuries.

Improved Worker Comfort

Well-designed safety footwear balances protection with cushioning, fit, breathability, and weight.

Better PPE Acceptance

Workers are more likely to wear comfortable footwear correctly throughout the shift.

Lower Replacement Costs

Quality materials and controlled construction may improve service life and reduce warranty claims.

Stronger Procurement Decisions

Accurate specifications allow buyers to compare products on measurable requirements rather than marketing language.

Improved Safety Culture

Selecting footwear through hazard assessment and worker consultation demonstrates a practical commitment to workplace safety.

How to Maintain S1, S2, and S3 Safety Shoes

Clean Them Regularly

Remove dirt, dust, mud, and metal debris. Use products suitable for leather, mesh, or synthetic uppers.

Keep Outsole Tread Clear

Debris trapped in the cleats or channels can reduce floor contact and traction.

Dry Footwear Naturally

Remove the footbeds and loosen the closures. Avoid direct heaters, which can damage leather, waterproof membranes, adhesives, and sole materials.

Maintain Leather

Use compatible conditioners and water-resistant treatments where recommended. Avoid products that alter electrical or slip properties.

Inspect Protection Areas

Check for:

• Exposed toe caps
• Penetration damage
• Cracked outsoles
• Sole separation
• Worn tread
• Broken stitching
• Failed closures
• Damaged waterproof lining
• Loss of cushioning
• Permanent chemical contamination

Replace When Necessary

There is no universal replacement interval. Replace footwear when wear or damage could reduce protection, fit, support, or traction.

Footwear subjected to a significant impact should be removed from service even if the damage is not immediately visible.

Safety Shoes Buying Guide for Businesses

Create a Technical Specification

Include:

• Standard edition
• Safety classification
• Optional markings
• Toe-cap material
• Penetration-insert type
• Upper material
• Outsole construction
• Fit
• Size range
• Colour
• Branding
• Packaging
• Inspection criteria

Verify the Supplier

Evaluate:

• Factory ownership
• Production experience
• Quality systems
• Certificates
• Test reports
• Sample development
• Material controls
• Production capacity
• Complaint handling
• Corrective-action procedures

Approve a Reference Sample

The approved sample should confirm:

• Materials
• Fit
• Colour
• Components
• Markings
• Workmanship
• Packaging

Mass production should be inspected against this reference.

Conduct Wear Trials

Include representative workers and evaluate:

• Toe room
• Heel movement
• Weight
• Flexibility
• Breathability
• Cushioning
• Traction
• End-of-shift comfort

Control Product Changes

Changing an outsole compound, toe cap, penetration insert, upper material, or waterproof membrane may affect certification.

Require written technical approval before any substitution.

Review Labels and Marketing Claims

Make sure that:

• Classification matches the certificate
• Standard edition is correct
• S2 and S3 are not incorrectly called waterproof
• FO, SR, HRO, ESD, and WR claims are documented
• User instructions are accurate
• Product and packaging markings are consistent

Frequently Asked Questions About S1, S2, and S3 Safety Shoes

1. What is the main difference between S1, S2, and S3?

S1 includes a closed heel, antistatic properties, and heel energy absorption. S2 adds upper water penetration and absorption resistance. S3 adds specified penetration resistance and a cleated outsole to S2-type properties.

2. Are S1 safety shoes suitable for warehouses?

Yes, S1 can suit dry warehouses. If sharp pallet debris creates a puncture risk, S1P, S1PL, or S1PS may be more appropriate.

3. Are S2 safety shoes waterproof?

No. S2 provides water penetration and absorption resistance in the upper, but not necessarily whole-footwear waterproofing.

4. Are S3 safety shoes waterproof?

Not automatically. For whole-footwear water resistance, check for WR and consider S7, S7L, or S7S footwear.

5. What is the difference between S3, S3L, and S3S?

S3 uses metallic penetration protection under P. S3L uses a non-metallic PL insert tested with a 4.5 mm nail. S3S uses a non-metallic PS insert tested with a 3.0 mm nail.

6. Is an S3 shoe safer than an S1 shoe?

It provides additional classified properties, but it is not automatically better for every worker. The correct footwear is the one matched to the actual hazards and work environment.

7. Can composite toe safety shoes be S1, S2, or S3?

Yes. EN ISO 20345 tests toe-cap performance rather than requiring steel. Certified composite or fiberglass toe caps can be used across these classes.

8. What does SR mean on safety shoes?

Under EN ISO 20345:2022, SR indicates that the footwear has passed an additional slip-resistance test beyond the basic slip requirement.

Conclusion

S1, S2, and S3 are not simply quality levels. They are safety-footwear classifications that group specific performance requirements under EN ISO 20345.

S1 safety shoes are commonly used in dry indoor environments and include a closed heel, antistatic properties, and heel energy absorption. S2 adds water penetration and absorption resistance of the upper. S3 adds penetration resistance and a cleated outsole, making it a common choice for construction, outdoor work, and demanding industrial environments.

The 2022 standard provides additional detail through markings such as S1PL, S1PS, S3L, S3S, S6, S7L, and S7S. These codes help buyers distinguish between metallic and non-metallic penetration protection and between water-resistant uppers and waterproof complete footwear.

Choosing suitable safety footwear still requires a workplace hazard assessment. Classification, fit, comfort, weight, outsole performance, materials, climate, and job tasks must all be considered.

For businesses, high-quality industrial safety shoes are a long-term investment in worker protection, comfort, productivity, and PPE compliance. The correct code matters—but so do the materials, manufacturing consistency, certification, and people wearing the shoes.

Certified Safety Footwear Solutions from Ocean Safety Shoes

Ocean Safety Shoes manufactures safety footwear for PPE brands, importers, distributors, wholesalers, retailers, and industrial suppliers.

Our product-development and manufacturing capabilities cover S1, S1P, S1PL, S1PS, S2, S3, S3L, S3S, S6, and S7-type projects, subject to the final construction, testing, and certification requirements. Available options include:

• Steel, fiberglass, or composite toe caps
• Steel and non-metallic penetration-resistant inserts
• Full-grain and nubuck leather
• Breathable mesh and sport-style uppers
• PU/PU and PU/TPU injection
• EVA/rubber and PU/rubber cemented construction
• Waterproof bootie systems
• SR, FO, HRO, ESD, and other optional performance features
• Custom colours, lasts, branding, and packaging
• OEM, ODM, and private-label development

With four PU injection lines, two cemented production lines, and production capacity of up to approximately 5,000 pairs per day, our factories can support both industrial footwear programmes and customised brand development.

Looking for correctly classified S1, S2, or S3 safety shoes? Contact Ocean Safety Shoes to discuss your target market, workplace hazards, required EN ISO 20345 classification, samples, testing, certification, and wholesale production requirements.