Metal free

Metal free is a standardisation for work shoes that stipulates that the shoes do not contain metals. Metal free safety shoes are in fact composed with composite materials. For example, they do not have a steel toecap, but a safety toecap made of composite. Composite is a material composed from different materials and a collective name for fibre-reinforced plastics. The fibres provide strength and transmit tensile forces. Composite also holds the fibres together and with it ensures that compressive and shear forces are withstood. A fibre can consist of carbon, aramid, glass or biological material. The avoidance of a metal nose is particularly ideal for environments where metal detectors are used, such as airports. Metal free can be used in all conditions, but they are particularly suitable for work environments where metal in shoes is not desired.