S7 safety footwear – Maximum waterproofing and protection
S7 safety shoes are the top-of-the-range solution for anyone working in extremely wet outdoor environments who also requires the highest level of protection against injuries caused by sharp objects on the ground. Not only do they feature a toe cap and a treaded outsole, as is standard for the S3 class, but they are also completely waterproof (WR) thanks to an integrated membrane – a crucial advantage in civil engineering, agriculture and outdoor trades.
Whether in the rain, in mud or on rough terrain: wherever external moisture and mechanical hazards from below converge, safety class S7 is the first choice.
S7 safety shoes meet the following minimum requirements:
- Toe cap: Reliable protection against impact and compression (200 joules).
- Closed heel area & energy absorption (E): Provides cushioning to relieve strain on joints and the spine.
- Antistatic properties (A): Prevents electrostatic build-up. Profiled outsole: Ensures maximum grip on loose, muddy or uneven terrain.
- Differentiated puncture protection: Protection against sharp objects, now precisely categorised as S7 (steel), S7L (textile – large) and S7S (textile – small).
- Fully waterproof (WR): An integrated membrane makes the entire shoe completely waterproof (exceeding standard WPA requirements).
In short: S7 footwear offers the highest level of protection by combining all the benefits of S3 with complete, breathable waterproofing (WR) for extremely wet and hazardous outdoor conditions.
Puncture resistance: S7, S7L or S7S?
The latest standard, EN ISO 20345:2022, now provides a precise distinction between puncture resistance ratings for waterproof footwear. Depending on the material and test method, you can choose exactly the level of protection that suits your everyday working environment:
1. S7 – The tried-and-tested classic with steel
The designation S7 refers specifically to fully waterproof footwear with steel puncture protection.
- Protection: The steel midsole provides an unyielding physical barrier against sharp objects. It is tested using a standard test nail with a diameter of 4.5 mm.
- Suitability: Ideal for heavy civil engineering, construction or demolition work, where serious hazards such as large nails or metal struts lurk in wet ground
2. S7L – Metal-free flexibility (textile, 4.5 mm test)
The ‘L’ stands for **‘Large’**. This version features a metal-free textile midsole, which has also been tested with a 4.5 mm nail.
- Protection: Offers reliable protection at a significantly lower weight. As the sole is made from high-tech textiles, it is extremely flexible and prevents cold bridges – a major advantage when working on cold, wet ground.
- Suitability: Perfect for professionals in gardening and landscaping or road construction who are constantly on the move and require maximum flexibility alongside full protection against moisture.
3. S7S – High Precision (textile, 3.0 mm test)
The ‘S’ stands for ‘Small’. This is the highest textile safety level, in which the sole is tested using a significantly thinner test nail (just 3.0 mm in diameter).
- Protection: As a thinner nail concentrates the pressure much more intensely, the material is exceptionally dense. It offers superior resistance to very fine, sharp objects that could penetrate normal textile soles.
- Suitability: The first choice for technical outdoor operations, outdoor assembly work or forestry, where fine metal spikes or splinters pose a risk.
Who are S7 safety shoes ideal for?
These safety classes are ideal for demanding outdoor work involving high levels of moisture and mechanical hazards. These include:
- Civil engineering & road construction
- Gardening and landscaping
- Agriculture and forestry
- Utility and waste management companies
Note: S7 footwear is the all-weather workhorse. If you work exclusively in dry indoor environments, we recommend the lighter S1 or S1P classes.
Care & Lifespan of Your ATLAS Safety Footwear
How to get the most out of your S3 shoes:
- Air them out daily – to allow moisture to escape
- Clean with a brush and a damp cloth – do not use harsh cleaning products
- Use leather care cream to keep the material supple
- Check the soles regularly – replace them if they show significant wear
Tip: Combine your shoes with orthopaedic, customisable insoles from our shop for even greater comfort!
Why S7 safety footwear from ATLAS is the best choice
As a specialist in safety footwear, ATLAS is synonymous with high-quality materials, state-of-the-art membrane technologies and well-thought-out design. In our online shop, you can choose from a range of waterproof S7 models, featuring our 3D cushioning system and clima-stream® technology. Our models are available in a variety of widths and sizes, ensuring the perfect fit for every need – so you can stay safe and comfortable even in extreme weather conditions.