Safety shoes: What do S1, S2, S1P and S3 mean?

March 31, 2026

Sicherheitsschuhe: Was bedeuten S1, S2, S1P und S3?

Safety Shoes: What do S1, S2, S1P, and S3 Mean?

Introduction
Safety shoes are essential in many professions. Whether on a construction site, in a warehouse, or in a workshop – high-quality work shoes not only protect against injuries but also increase comfort and performance during work. But what do the markings S1, S1P, S2, and S3 actually mean? In this article, we explain what these abbreviations stand for and which shoe is right for your area of application.

What does the EN ISO 20345 standard mean?

Before we delve into the individual protection classes, it's worth looking at the underlying standard: EN ISO 20345. It specifies the basic requirements for safety shoes:

Toe cap (at least 200 joules)
Slip resistance
Energy absorption in the heel area
Antistatic properties (depending on the class)

Depending on the protection class (S1 to S5), further properties are added.

Protection class S1 – Basic protection for dry indoor areas

Features:

Toe cap (200 joules)
Antistatic
Energy absorption in the heel area
Fuel-resistant sole

Area of application:
Ideal for dry indoor areas such as workshops, warehouses, or industrial settings.

Advantages:

Light and comfortable
Sufficient protection for low hazards

Not suitable for: Wet or uneven outdoor areas

Protection class S1P – S1 with additional penetration protection

Features:

All S1 properties
- Penetration protection (e.g., steel or composite midsole)

Area of application:
If you primarily work indoors but also deal with sharp objects like nails or metal parts.

Typical industries:

Warehouse logistics
Light craftsmanship
Workshop with metal or wood waste

Advantages:

Higher protection without much additional weight

Note: No moisture protection available – not suitable for outdoor use

Protection class S2 – Protection against moisture

Features:

Like S1, but additionally:
- Water-resistant upper material

Area of application:
Suitable for workplaces with increased humidity, e.g., in the food industry or in outdoor storage.

Advantages:

Water-repellent
Suitable for damp environments

Not included: Penetration protection

Protection class S3 – All-round protection for outdoor use

Features:

All S2 properties
- Penetration protection
- Profiled, slip-resistant outsole

Area of application:
For all professions where you work outdoors, e.g., on construction sites, in horticulture, or on uneven ground.

Advantages:

Maximum safety
Suitable for almost all conditions

Special feature: Many models with additional certification (WR, CI, HRO)

Overview table: Differences at a glance

Class	Toe protection	Penetration protection	Water protection	Profiled sole	Area of application
S1	✅	❌	❌	❌	Indoor areas
S1P	✅	✅	❌	❌	Workshop, warehouse with hazardous materials
S2	✅	❌	✅	❌	Damp working environment
S3	✅	✅	✅	✅	Construction site, outdoor use

Conclusion: Which protection class suits you?

The choice of the right protection class heavily depends on the area of application. Here are a few recommendations:

In the warehouse or workshop: S1 or S1P
In food processing or outdoor storage: S2
On the construction site or in horticulture: S3

If you are unsure, it is better to choose a higher protection standard – e.g., S3 with a lightweight composite toe cap.

Montan Safety – Your partner for safe work shoes
Our models are certified according to EN ISO 20345 and combine modern style with maximum safety. Whether S1P, S2, or S3 – with us, you'll find the right shoe for your workday.

Montan Safety – Ready for every step.