steel toe vs composite

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Prof

Minister of Fire
Oct 18, 2011
711
Western PA
I was having a conversation with my cousin about safety when cutting wood. He insisted that his composite toe boots would protect him if the saw slips. I wasn't sure. I suggested that we try an experiment and he let me take a wack at his boot (without his foot in it), but he wasn't open to it. I think once he is ready for another pair we might have a Myth-busters style experiment in the making. I'll probably use an old chain though--mostly because I'm cheap. What do you think, would a composite toed boot provide protection? I suspect it would be better than a soft-toed boot, but short of a steel toe by a measure.
 
Just one more reason I've worn steel-toed boots for over 25 years either when working for cash by myself or for regular employer.Long before OSHA rules made it mandatory on most jobs.Eventually gonna splurge for a pair of metatarsal chainsaw boots with the cut resistant sidewalls (about $300 & up).
 
Wow--not much need for discussion here!
 
Suggestions for reasonably priced, comfortable steel toe boots?
 
Suggestions for reasonably priced, comfortable steel toe boots?

I have a set of timberlands I really like and they were under 100 bucks.
 
The composites certainly have their practical uses. In lots of applications they're adequate protection. In the case of running a chainsaw, the steel caps are quite obviously superior.
 
As far as boots go, I started wearing Georgia Boot Renegade 6" weatherproof steel toes when they were ~$100 at TSC. They went up in price, so I would buy my next pair with the TSC 10% off coupon that came in the mail. Now my local TSC stores stopped carrying them. :( I ordered my latest pair online from the store that gave me the best price. I still put those insoles in them.
 
I have a pair of Wolvarines that are about $100. They are water proof and reasonably comfortable.BTW, my cousin is now in the market for a pair of steel toes :)
 
When I was on DOT's tree crew they would buy us Red Wing Gortex logging boots once a year! Some guys had 2-3 new pair still in the box.. I looked now they're like a 300 dollar boot!
 
I wear logger boots. However I always thought of the steel toe as protection from a falling piece of wood or a bad roll when bucking as opposed to armor against a moving chain. I never gave much consideration to the chances of catching the bar across the toes. (And of course protection from an ax or maul when splitting).
 
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My dad nearly cut off his toe with the chain saw. Forgot the steel toes, didn't realize it until he saw the blood bubbling up from under the log. Big toe was pretty much hanging by not a whole lot.
 
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