For a plumber, finding the right work boot is very important. They will have specific footwear requirements and face various kinds of hazards, so in this blog, we’ll recommend a series of boots that provide long-lasting safety and comfort for plumbers, as well as offer some tips to make sure wearers aren't over-speccing, which could save money and a lot of hassle. 

Water-resistant boots 

Where there’s plumbing, water is not usually far away. However, if you’re working mostly indoors and only encounter occasional and light amounts of water, we recommend a water-resistant boot, rather than opting for a waterproof style. 

If a boot is waterproof, it will have a specialised membrane so water won’t be able to penetrate. While good waterproof membranes will allow air to pass through, they won’t be as breathable as a water-resistant boot. A good feature for those in the right environment; however, it can be hindering in the wrong environment. 

Spotlight on: V1920 Octane

V1920 Octane keeps feet dry and protected during short-term moisture exposure.

• Water-repellent upper
• Moisture-wicking lining to reduce moisture from sweat
• Chemical splash proof
• Available in a  specific female-fit

Abrasion-resistant boots

Because plumbers spend a lot of time kneeling, the toe area of their boots are in frequent contact with the ground or floor. This can wear away the material at the toe end of their boots quickly, so we strongly recommend a boot that has a durable scuff cap, which will extend the life of the boot.   

SPOTLIGHT ON: V1940 Torque

V1940 Torque's durability makes it perfect for plumbers kneeling for prolonged periods.

• Toe material is protected with a tough scuff cap
• Cool and comfortable feet for longer with a durable breathable lining
  
  
• Available in a specific female-fit
  

Flexible BOOTS

Because so much of a plumber’s time will be spent working whilst kneeling, it’s also important their footwear is flexible. Due to this, some prefer a safety trainer rather than a boot, as there is less over the ankle material which wearers can find more comfortable.  

SPOTLIGHT ON: V1910 Boost

V1910 Boost is a flexible style allowing the wearer to work in comfort in any position.  

• Safety trainer means no above-ankle material
• Easy flexing as non-leather upper is more supple
• Available in a specific female-fit

Slip-resistant boots

Plumbers will often have to walk across wet floors, particularly if they’re fixing a leak, so that’s why a sole – or more-specifically an outsole – that provides excellent grip is crucial. 

But if you’re working indoors for most of the time, there’s not much value in having a chunky, wide sole with deep tread on your boot made for outdoor terrain. Instead, we recommend a sole designed to keep the wearer firm-footed and slip-free on smooth, slippery man-made surfaces. 

Within the V12 range, the right sole unit would be the IGS. Inspired by tyre technology and developed by working with experts in safety testing and tyre technology, this sole unit features: 

• Hexagonal tread which quickly channels water away  
• Angled splines to reduce falls  
• Ladder grips to increase steadiness at height 

Find out more about the IGS here. 

PERFECT FOR PLUMBERS - The MukGuard overshoes 

Created by V12 for tradespeople who want to protect customers’ floors from dirt or mud being brought in from outside, the reusable MukGuard overshoe has become a hit with plumbers, installers and engineers. Because it’s not just floors that stay clean and looking great with MukGuard – it’s their reputation and business too.  

More benefits of MukGuard: 

• No time wasted getting boots on and off at the door
• Easy to slip on and off
• Covers the toe area fully which protects the boot when kneeling 
• Superb grip 
• Reusable, so eliminates the use of plastic overshoes

Ready to go 

So, hopefully it’s clear from reading this that the right boot for a plumber is about what you need – and what you don’t. As always, the right safety style will depend on the required specification, but to conclude, we recommend safety footwear that provide: 

• a degree of water-repellence 
• upper toe area protection  
• grip for slippery indoor surfaces 
• flexibility when kneeling
• toe and underfoot protection (toecap and midsole)

Finally, to ensure that over-specification does not occur, ask yourself if it’s necessary to have waterproof boots with wider or chunkier outdoor grip. In this line of work, they could be nice-to-haves, but possibly not necessary.

Seen any safety boots you like? Head to the V12 range to discover our strong, durable and comfortable safety boots and trainers.