Shoes Analysis

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Chefs and wait staff work in a high stress environments. They are constantly moving about doing a variety of jobs in areas that not only require exceptional hygiene but can also have safety hazards. The clothes that they wear and most importantly, the shoes that they wear need to protect and provide comfort during the long workdays spent moving around the kitchen and serving areas. The idea of safety shoes in the kitchen is one that a lot of people don't take the time to think about especially for restaurant staff who are required to do all the heavy lifting whilst still managing to look good. If you are a restaurant manager the shoe choice of your staff should be a great concern to you if you do not want to spend time filling out accident …show more content…

These criteria are functionality, practicality and style.

#1. Functionality

This criteria covers aspects like the material used to make the shoes, breathability, grip, water-resistance, and cleanability.

Material:

The ideal shoe should have a durable upper section but still be flexible enough. Durability is important because these shoes are often worn for long periods of time in an area where things constantly fall and may land on feet. Add to that the hot environment created by stoves, ovens and boiling point. These put extreme pressure on the shoe and if they are not made with durable materials, these shoes may deteriorate in just a matter of weeks. The material used should be able to take a beating without falling apart.

Breathability:

For chefs, the heat in the kitchen can cause excessive sweating. You want shoes that will let the sweat evaporate to prevent bacteria from breeding and to keep a level of comfort. High-quality breathable material allows the extra moisture in shoes to evaporate, allowing feet to breathe and remain comfortable.

Water …show more content…

If you work in a high stress environment like a restaurant kitchen for up to 14 hours a day on foot, you may get distracted and make costly mistakes if you are wearing uncomfortable shoes. Choose shoes that are the right size, made with the right material that accommodates how your foot moves inside the shoe.

#3. Style

There really are only two styles that are available for chefs but these days there are more different styles out there for both kitchen staff and servers. The two common types of non-slip shoe styles for chefs are slip-ons and lace-ups.

Slip-ons:

A lot of chefs prefer Slip-ons because they are easy to put on. There are no laces to cause anyone to trip and fall. Unlike lace-up, they don't come undone and require the wearer to stop and retie and then remember to wash his or her hands before handling food. Choose a pair with a good heel grip.

Laces:

Shoes with laces work well too. They do need to cover aspects like durability, water resistance, good grip and comfort. The lace design should enhance

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