WHAT DO S1P, S3, S3S, AND ESD MEAN IN SAFETY FOOTWEAR? A COMPLETE GUIDE TO CHOOSING THE RIGHT FOOTWEAR

Safety footwear is regulated by European standards that define the minimum levels of protection that each model must offer.

These certifications guarantee that the footwear has passed specific tests related to:

• Impacts
• Compression
• Slips
• Punctures
• Static electricity
• Water resistance
• Extreme temperatures

For this reason, before buying any safety shoe or boot, it is important to check that it has the appropriate certification for the work to be performed.

The S1P classification is one of the most widely used in indoor industrial environments.

S1P footwear includes:

✅ 200J impact-resistant safety toecap

✅ Antistatic properties

✅ Heel energy absorption

✅ Hydrocarbon resistance

✅ Puncture-resistant insole

✅ Slip-resistant outsole

S1P models are suitable for:

• Workshops
• Warehouses
• Logistics centers
• Light industry
• Automotive

However, they are not designed for work with frequent exposure to water or moisture.

The S3 standard is currently one of the most in-demand in the professional sector.

S3 footwear incorporates all the features of S1P and adds:

✅ Water penetration resistance

✅ Water-repellent materials

✅ Greater outdoor protection

For this reason, it is often recommended for:

• Construction
• Heavy industry
• Maintenance
• Outdoor logistics
• Work in wet environments

For many professionals, S3 represents the ideal balance between protection, comfort, and versatility.

This is currently one of the most common questions.

The S3S certification was introduced with the update of the EN ISO 20345:2022 standard.

The main difference is related to puncture protection.

Traditional S3 models used different protection systems, while the S3S classification specifies more demanding requirements for new-generation puncture-resistant insoles.

In practical terms:

✅ S3 = High protection

✅ S3S = Updated protection according to the new standard

For this reason, more and more manufacturers are launching S3S models as replacements for the old S3 models.

The acronym ESD stands for:

Electro Static Discharge

Controlled Electrostatic Discharge

ESD shoes are designed to dissipate static electricity that accumulates in the body.

They are mainly used in:

• Electronics
• Technology Industry
• Modern Automotive
• Laboratories
• ATEX Zones
• Assembly Centers

Their aim is to prevent damage to sensitive electronic components and reduce certain risks associated with the accumulation of static charges.

More and more companies are requiring ESD footwear due to the increase in electronic devices in industrial processes.

In addition to S1P, S3, S3S, and ESD, other additional codes are commonly found.

FO

Sole resistance to hydrocarbons.

HRO

Contact heat resistance.

Ideal for:

• Welding
• Metalworking industry
• High-temperature environments

CI

Cold insulation.

Perfect for:

• Cold storage rooms
• Outdoor use during winter

HI

Heat insulation.

SR

Maximum slip resistance according to current regulations.

For workshops and the automotive industry

What is usually recommended is:

• S1P or S3S
• ESD
• Non-slip soles

For logistics and warehouses

What is usually recommended is:

• S1P
• S3S
• ESD

Prioritizing lightness and comfort.

For outdoor industry

What is usually recommended is:

• S3 or S3S
• FO
• SR

For electronic environments

What is usually recommended is:

• ESD
• S1P or S3S

The Sparco Teamwork line has revolutionized the safety footwear sector by combining certified protection with motorsport-inspired designs.

Its advantages include:

• Sporty design
• Reduced weight
• Up-to-date certifications
• Excellent comfort for long workdays
• Wide variety of S1P, S3, and S3S models
• ESD versions for modern industrial environments

This has made Sparco one of the most recognized brands in the premium workwear sector.