Footwear that lasts
Tough times are ahead for many businesses, but Lastrite Footwear is match fit, having already survived the flood of cheap imports unleashed when import tariffs were dropped.
Safety footwear was always a source of dread to this reviewer — a child of the 1960s, apprentice of the 70s and grafter of the 80s.
Thirty years later, although boot technology has come a long way, I was still a little reluctant to ‘test drive’ a modern pair of safety boots. I relented and gave it a go.
Supplied by Oliver Boots (founded 1887) of Victoria, Australia, these boots were AT 55s (all-terrain) — and an eye-opener, so much so that the excuse “safety boots pinch my feet” is a goner.
The boots are substantial but the overwhelming impression is one of comfort: it’s easy to forget these really are safety boots.
The boots came through with flying colours while your reviewer lived in them during the Christmas/new year holiday, working at removing a 120m, ten-year-old hedge and a couple of big trees.
The design of the AT 55 combines zippered sides and a front-lacing system, making them easy to get into and quick to tighten for work.
Comfort is provided by the Coolstep interior lining that uses a close-knit, moisture-wicking lining to keep feet dry and free from odour.
A padded heel guard offers stability and protection, and a Softstride comfort system absorbs the impact of each step, using a low-density urethane foam layer that moulds to the foot’s shape for comfort and support.
As the All-Terrain moniker suggests, the boots have a deep tread profile for good grip on difficult ground. They resist mineral oils, acids, alkalis and animal fats and are heat resistant to 300 degrees Celcius.
The front of the boot is protected by a Type-1 Natureform toe-cap with a wide profile for comfort, and the comfort is further improved by a latex toe cap liner over the key areas, giving the impression that these are just standard work boots.
These are among the lightest boots offered by the company, and the quality is up there with the best in all respects. All seams are double-stitched, with a triple Kevlar thread where stresses are high.
