Which was the last time you travelled on an air plane?
Mine was four months back while I was travelling from Atlanta to Chicago for a business deal! And fortunately or unfortunately I was wearing a steel toe boot and was worried whether I could get through the security checking point or not as steel toe boots cannot easily get through the metal detectors as we all know!
Now comes the question to your mind whether I could get through the check point or not?
As far as the Transport Security Administration (TSA) is concerned during travelling in air with steel toe boots, they will give you a big YES at the checking point, if only your boots are clearly visible to them, be it on your foot, or in Carry-On Bags or Checked Bags.
YES, one can wear steel toe boots on a plane after clearing it through the checkpoint where the instructions given by the TSA Officer, are needed to be followed if the scanner goes bonkers on you. Otherwise, it can be taken in Carry-On Bags or Checked Bags.
What Invites the Question of Wearing Steel Toe Boots on a Plane?
Since steel toed boots are reinforced with metal and are comparably harder and tougher than other shoes.
The Security Administration ensures the security of public corresponding to which, they prefer not to allow objects inside a plane which can or may be used as a weapon.
A teenager of Florida named Josie Lou Ratley has a history of being assaulted with such boots used as a weapon against her.
Many entertainment venues mention “NO STEEL TOE CAPS” in their dress code as the wearer may become violent to alleviate the probability of getting seriously hurt.
→ Usage in Abundance
Most of the workers including linemen, services, labourers, construction workers, industrial workers etc. are surround ed by heavy materials, electricity, water, rolling and other outdoor activities during their working period.
Since the men and women contribute to a high percentage of the US population, travelling on planes also has to be a part of their work routine adding up to the abundant usage of steel toed boots.
TSA Guidelines on Steel Toe Boots
TSA is an agency of the US Department of Homeland security which is responsible for the safety and security of the public travelling there.
This body also allows goods to be carried on a plane.
However, the administration has given a green tick for steel toed boots to be carried either in Carry-On Bags or Checked Bags but it also notifies that the final decision rests with the TSA Officer-in-charge on whether that particular item is allowed through the checkpoint.
Although it is advised to put the boots in a plastic transparent bag or a tray, walking through the scanner in the checking point, if directed by the officer or you can carry it inside your baggage.
Will Steel Toe Boots Set OFF the Metal Detectors?
Definitely YES, the metal detectors will easily detect the steel present in your boots but there is nothing to worry about.
You might be asked to step aside, take your boots off and put it inside your bags or a plastic bag/tray before going through the detectors.
In case you are in a hurry and want to save your time, you are advised to carry them in your bags instead of wearing them.
Alternate to Steel Toe Boots
The safety, which is the priority for the workers provided by the so called steel toe boots are nowadays also available in composite or alloy toe boots.
These composite or alloy boots are also comfortable, durable and resistant to water, oil and chemicals.
Workers of construction and different manufacturing companies can wear these boots instead of steel toed ones, without any hesitation.
Henceforth, why not take the option of using this alternative footwear when one is travelling in an airplane?
Wrapping up!
To sum up, the consideration of wearing steel toed boots while travelling is quite ironic as they were manufactured to ensure the safety of the ones wearing them but when you are in a flight, these boots also questions the safety of other passengers on board, in case the situation turns out to be violent and out of control.
One needs not to worry about wearing or carrying such pair of boots on a flight.
Assuming that, this article has provided readers a handful of information regarding the queries about the usage of steel-toed boots in an airplane.
I hope it was well informed and useful to you.
Remember, we at workgearz.com prefers your convenience first over any material gain.
Have a great day ahead.
Stay healthy and safe.
