We all are pretty much aware of the security procedures while traveling by air. Be it getting ourselves or our baggage checked; nothing goes unnoticed through the scanner. You might wonder if it would be a good option to wear those steel toe boots while traveling for a trip or work.
The answer is yes, you can. Steel toe boots can be worn while you travel on a plane. It is worn by travelers worldwide and is preferred footwear while on a work trip. However, be ready to be stopped or interrupted by the security personnel as the metal detectors go crazy with alarms!
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Why Steel Toe Boots?
Steel toe boots were mainly designed to protect a person’s feet from any harsh conditions or sharp objects. Many construction workers and laborers in the US prefer to wear this since it safeguards their feet from getting injured by any sharp instrument.
The neck of these boots used to be made of steel, though there are many alternatives available in the market at present. Both men and women prefer to wear these boots as they go with any outfit and provide maximum safety to your foot. It can be either worn or easily carried in your carry-on luggage bags.
Many footwear brands have tapped into this style to make it more appealing and fashionable. Many travelers prefer wearing this on their work trips or even while on a leisure trip. They are an ideal footwear option if you are planning for a hiking or trekking trip.
However, there are certain points you need to consider before slipping into one of these boots for your air travel.
What To Expect While Flying With Steel Toe Boots?
Airport security checks are dreaded by most of us travelers. We not only pray for smooth sailing through all the scanners but also wish to get done with the procedures quickly. It is a task, and we all agree to it. Keeping that in mind, will you be ready to take off your shoes during the security checks? The answer would be quite debatable.
Since it is made of steel and is a metallic object, the scanners will easily detect it. You will be expected to step aside from the queue and be asked to remove the shoes. Only when the security has thoroughly checked will you get approval to go ahead. The whole episode could be a hassle and a pain.
As it is made of steel and metal, the alarm will go on instantly. We are quite aware of the fact that we need to remove all the objects that may pose a danger for air travel. Ranging from knives to razors or scissors, nothing is permissible inside an airplane. This is a question of not just our safety but, more importantly, others.
Rules And Procedures To Be Followed
There are a few rules or tips which you should keep in mind while flying with steel toe boots. Let us check what those are:
- Avoid Panic: Be ready and mindful when asked to step aside by the security. You should not panic and always co-operate with the officials as it is their duty to be alert.
- Be cooperative: Follow the instructions provided by the security agents and hand them the shoes for a thorough check.
- Hassle free travel: If you want to travel hassle-free without being pulled out of the queue, carry the shoes in your hand luggage or carry-on bags that can easily pass through the security scanners.
- Time management: If you are in a rush and late for your flight, it is always recommended to carry these boots in your luggage. This way, you will save time and cause less trouble for the fellow travelers in the queue.
Why Are Steel Toe Boots Considered Hazardous?
More than being hazardous, they are considered to be a potential danger to others. There have been reported cases in many countries of these particular boots being used as a weapon. It can cause harm to someone who is unarmed and hence is considered unsafe in certain places.
If you are looking for comfy and flexible shoes for long flights, then these boots might not be a great option. They may cause sore toes, and your legs may experience cramps. Adding to this, these boots are also quite huge and weigh more than your regular shoes.
Also, if you wear an ill-fitting steel toe shoe and travel, then there is a high risk that you will experience blisters on your feet. You will feel the urge to remove the shoes and stretch your feet, but that would be a very bad idea. This would not only be a discomfort for you but also your fellow passenger.
Alternatives To Steel Toe Boots
Owing to their sturdiness, steel toe boots are considered to be the ‘safety shoe’ by many men and women. They are rugged and are highly durable in nature. Even though it has features that make it desirable to wear, you might have to think twice while wearing them on a plane.
Composite toe boots are a good substitute for steel toe boots. Compared to steel boots, they are lighter in weight and avoid the hassle of being detected under the security scanner. Similar to composite shoes are Alloy Toe boots which is also a great catch over steel toe boots.
Though they rank lower when it comes to safety, both can be great alternative footwear while traveling by airplane.
Summing Up
So, can you wear steel toe boots on a plane? Yes, you can. Although, it is evident now that steel toe boots, though they can be worn on a plane, come with their baggage. If you are wearing them, be all set to remove them in multiple scanners and checkpoints.
Traveling should always be smooth and free from inconvenience. So, it is a personal choice to wear them during travel or not. You can always go for the lighter alternatives, which are equally effective and safeguard your feet as steel toe boots do.