Proper Fit Matters: Breaking Down Barriers in Women's Safety Equipment

In a world where "one size fits all" has long dominated the safety equipment industry, women have been forced to make dangerous compromises, squeezing into ill-fitting gear or going without proper protection altogether. Our June Mentorship Circle brought this critical issue into sharp focus with Courtney Bedoya from Steel Blue, who shared insights into their groundbreaking approach to women's safety footwear and the broader implications for

workplace safety.

The Problem with "One Size Fits All"

For too long, the safety equipment industry has operated under the assumption that smaller

versions of men's gear would suffice for women. This approach ignores fundamental differences in anatomy, biomechanics, and workplace needs. As Courtney explained during our session, Steel Blue recognized this gap and made a substantial investment—millions of dollars—to develop women-specific lasts (a mechanical form shaped like a human foot) and manufacturing processes.

"The 'one size fits all' approach was simply inadequate for women," Courtney emphasized,

highlighting how this seemingly simple oversight has had far-reaching consequences for

women's safety and comfort in the workplace.

Innovation in Women's Safety Footwear

Steel Blue's commitment to proper fitting PPE goes beyond simply offering smaller sizes. Their women's safety boot line has evolved from four styles to nine different options; each designed with women's specific needs in mind. The company's direct-inject manufacturing process and industry-first 60-day comfort guarantee demonstrate their confidence in their approach—with less than a 2% return rate speaking to the effectiveness of proper fit.

The boots feature thoughtful design elements that address real workplace challenges:

• Extended sizing from women's size 4 to 12

• Cutout designs on heels for improved driving comfort

• Enhanced ankle protection for climbing and ladder use

• Metatarsal guards that harden upon impact for maximum protection

• Slip-resistant features and ladder lock design for enhanced safety

Perhaps most importantly, these boots focus on proper alignment from foot to back. As

Courtney noted, improper footwear contributes to 82% of back pain—a statistic that

underscores the broader health implications of ill-fitting safety equipment.

Beyond Footwear: A Broader Movement

The conversation expanded beyond boots to address the growing recognition of anthropometric differences in PPE design. One of the participants, representing her organization's enterprise-wide women's safety vest initiative, highlighted how companies are beginning to understand that proper fit isn't just about comfort—it's about safety, productivity, and retention.

"We're seeing more organizations recognize that investing in properly fitting PPE for women

isn't just the right thing to do—it's good business," she shared, noting how her company is

working to educate production leadership about PPE options and fit.

The Business Case for Change

Steel Blue's boots meet European safety standards, which exceed US requirements, and their durability makes them cost-effective over time. This combination of superior safety and

economic value creates a compelling business case for organizations looking to improve their safety protocols.

The boots also participate in the American Diabetes Association's "Better Choices for Life"

program, recognizing their health benefits beyond basic safety protection. Features like $40

insoles and Poron cushioning in key strike zones demonstrate how proper design can address multiple health considerations simultaneously.

A Growing Global Market

The discussion touched on the expanding global market for women's PPE, reflecting a broader shift in how industries approach workplace safety. This growth represents both an opportunity and a challenge—an opportunity to create better, safer working environments for women, and a challenge to overcome decades of "make do" mentality.

Creating Change Through Education and Advocacy

One of the most powerful aspects of our conversation was the emphasis on education and

advocacy. Whether it's sharing information about properly fitting boots with a welder friend

who needs extended sizing, or speaking to women's resource groups about PPE options,

individual actions can create ripple effects of change.

The availability of Steel Blue boots in colors like sand, pink, teal, and purple also challenges

traditional notions of what safety equipment should look like, making safety gear that women actually want to wear—a small but significant step toward inclusivity.

The Path Forward

As our conversation demonstrated, proper fitting PPE for women isn't just about equipment — it's about recognition, respect, and safety. When companies invest in women-specific safety gear, they're acknowledging that women belong in these workspaces and deserve protection that actually protects.

The growing market for women's PPE, combined with success stories like Steel Blue's innovative approach, suggests that change is possible. But it requires continued advocacy, education, and a willingness to challenge the status quo.

As we continue to break barriers in traditionally male-dominated industries, ensuring that

women have access to properly fitting safety equipment isn't just important—it's essential.

Because when safety equipment actually fits, women can focus on what they do best: their jobs.

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This blog post is based on our June 2025 Women's Mentorship Circle session with Courtney

Bedoya from Steel Blue. For more information about our mentorship circles, check out our upcoming events: https://www.empoweringwomeninindustry.com/virtual-events

You can watch this Virtual Meetup on our Members' Portal, Mighty Networks!