The Shift Is Real: Zip Sides Are Winning
In 2025, more Australian tradies are ditching traditional lace-up boots and switching to zip side safety boots. Why? Because speed, safety, and all-day comfort matter more than ever on the job. Whether you're on-site at 6AM or scrambling to get out of PPE in the arvo, zip side boots are making life easier—and safer.
Top Reasons Tradies Are Choosing Zip Side Work Boots
1. Quicker to Put On and Take Off
Forget wasting time fiddling with laces. With zip boots, you’re in and out in seconds. That’s a game-changer for shift workers and FIFO crews.
2. Built-In Emergency Escape
If your foot gets trapped or injured, lace-ups can be slow to remove. Zip sides allow for a faster exit, which could be critical in hazardous situations.
3. Better Fit, Less Fuss
Zip side boots often come with a lace-up front + zip side combo. You can set your perfect tension once, then use the zip every day—no constant retying.
4. Site Compliance & Safety
Many job sites across Australia now favour or require zip side styles for quick emergency removal and ankle stability. That means better compliance without compromising safety.
5. Easier for Injured, Older or Tired Tradies
For those with mobility challenges or injuries, zip boots are far more accessible. Less bending. Less strain. More comfort.
Top-Selling Zip Side Work Boots at Work Boots Direct
- Steel Blue Southern Cross Zip Boot – A crowd favourite with premium safety and all-day support
- Mongrel K91030 Zip Boot – Lightweight and made tough for tradies on the move
- King Gee K27100 Tradies Zip Boot – Great value and site-ready protection
- Oliver 55345Z Zip Sided Boot – Designed for serious industrial conditions
- FXD WB-1 Zip Boot – Stylish, lightweight and loaded with grip
Lace-Ups Still Have Their Place… But
Yes, lace-ups provide snug control and may suit narrow feet better. But unless your site demands them, the benefits of zip sides are hard to ignore. In fact, many boots now offer a hybrid lace-up + zip side for the best of both worlds.
Final Word
Zip side safety boots are outselling lace-ups for a reason. Tradies want faster, safer, smarter options—and zip boots deliver. Don’t get left tying knots while others get to work. Make the switch and feel the difference.
Shop all zip side safety boots today at Work Boots Direct. Australia’s most trusted site for work-ready footwear.