ISO 20344 and TS EN ISO 20344 Footwear Tests

Footwear, especially in the field of safety and protective equipment, plays a vital role in ensuring user safety and comfort. Therefore, testing its performance using standardized scientific methods is essential. ISO 20344 is the core international standard that defines the general testing methods for safety, protective, and occupational footwear. While it does not specify product requirements itself, it provides the fundamental test procedures referenced by other standards such as ISO 20345, ISO 20346, and ISO 20347.

ISO 20344 tests evaluate key properties like impact resistance, slip resistance, penetration resistance, abrasion resistance, and water permeability — all critical for user protection and overall product quality.

Main Purpose of the Device

The main purpose of the testing devices used under ISO 20344 is to measure the durability and performance of footwear under various working and environmental conditions. These tests determine whether a shoe meets international safety and quality standards.

What Is the ISO 20344 Test?

The ISO 20344 test refers to a comprehensive set of procedures that evaluate the physical and mechanical performance of footwear. It includes multiple assessments such as toe impact resistance, puncture resistance, slip resistance, water resistance, and abrasion testing.

Importance and Objective of the Test

  • Ensures workplace safety

  • Provides a scientific basis for certification and compliance

  • Guarantees consistent product quality

  • Delivers safe, comfortable, and durable footwear to users

Scientific Basis of the Test

The test methods are based on measurable physical parameters such as force, friction coefficient, water permeability, and material resistance. This ensures the tests are reproducible and yield internationally comparable results.

Device Usage

Testing devices apply specific forces or conditions — such as impact loads, puncture probes, or sliding surfaces — to simulate real-world stresses on different shoe parts. The results provide a detailed performance profile for each footwear model.

Technical Details (Interpretative Explanation)

  • Toe Impact Test: Measures resistance of the toe cap to a specified impact energy.

  • Penetration Resistance: Evaluates the sole’s resistance to sharp objects.

  • Slip Resistance Test: Assesses grip on various surfaces and conditions.

  • Abrasion Test: Determines material durability under friction.

  • Water Resistance Test: Measures the material’s ability to prevent water penetration.

Advantages

  • Provides internationally recognized, objective test methods

  • Ensures quality assurance for manufacturers

  • Guarantees safety and comfort for end users

Technical Advantages

  • High precision and repeatable testing methods

  • Reliable and consistent results

  • Full compliance with global footwear testing standards

Contribution to Quality Control

ISO 20344 tests are the cornerstone of footwear quality control. They allow manufacturers to verify product compliance before releasing items to the market, minimizing safety risks and ensuring consistency.

Export and Certification Support

Compliance with ISO 20344 is essential for CE marking and global product certification. It enhances export potential by meeting European and international market requirements.

Application Areas

  • Safety footwear

  • Protective boots

  • Industrial work shoes

  • Military and tactical footwear

Standards

  • ISO 20344 / TS EN ISO 20344: Defines the general test methods for safety, protective, and occupational footwear, including impact, puncture, slip, abrasion, and water resistance evaluations.