Working on a roof requires extreme vigilance. Surfaces are often slippery, sloping and exposed to the elements. The slightest misstep can result in a fall with serious consequences.
That's why choosing anti-slip roofing shoes is not just a matter of comfort: it's a safety requirement.
In this article, we'll look at why these shoes are essential, what standards they must meet, and how to choose the right model for your use - whether you're a professional roofer, a building craftsman, or a DIY enthusiast.
Why a "non-slip roofing shoe"?
Roofs have very specific characteristics:
sloping or inclined surfaces, a variety of coatings (tiles, slates, zinc, steel), moisture, moss, dust and debris making the support unstable.
A conventional shoe, even a sports shoe, does not offer the grip required for this type of terrain.
A non-slip roofing shoe has a specific sole which maximizes contact with the surface and reduces the risk of slipping.
👉 As we mentioned in our other article, the difference between a standard sole and a non-slip sole is just a few millimeters of rubber, but that changes everything in terms of safety.
Standards and markings to know
All safety safety footwear and some are specially designed for working at height.
Here are the main standards to check before buying :
- EN ISO 20345 European basic standard for safety footwear.
- S3 SRC combination best suited to roofing applications (puncture resistance, non-slip sole, shock absorption, waterproofing).
- SRB / SRA / SRC Classification of anti-slip properties on different floors (ceramic, steel, wet).
- UNI 11583:2015 Italian standard for on pitched roofs.
These markings guarantee that the shoe has been tested to withstand extreme conditions of grip and stability.
Technical features of a good anti-slip roofing shoe
A roofing/zincing safety shoe combines several key technical elements:
🔹 The non-slip sole
- In nitrile rubber or TPU for maximum grip on tiles, zinc or slate.
- Flat, micro-serrated profile: greater stability on slopes, no pronounced crampons.
- High skid resistance (SRC), reducing the risk of slipping on wet surfaces.
🔹 Ankle support
- Upright model highly recommended for steep roofs.
- Limits twisting and ensures greater foot stability.
- Side reinforcements often integrated for added safety.
🔹 Comfort and lightness
- Breathable materials to limit perspiration.
- Sweatproof inner lining.
- Reduced weight to avoid fatigue on long operations.
🔹 Waterproofing and durability
- Water-repellent uppers or treated leather.
- Abrasion and hydrocarbon-resistant sole.
- Puncture resistance (steel or composite midsole).
🔹 Other assets to consider
- Property antistatic for electrical work.
- Compatibility with other roofing PPE harnesses, lanyards, helmets, etc.
- Easy maintenance: the sole must be kept clean to maintain its effectiveness.
How to choose according to use and roof type
Every roof has its own constraints. To choose the right anti-slip roofing shoehere are the criteria to consider:
- Roof type
- Tiles / slates: flat, highly adherent base.
- Steel/zinc pan: flexible, heat-resistant rubber.
- Tiles / slates: flat, highly adherent base.
- Slope
- Low-slope roof: low S3 SRC model sufficient.
- Steeply sloping roof: UNI 11583-compliant boots recommended.
- Low-slope roof: low S3 SRC model sufficient.
- Weather conditions
- In case of rain or damp: SRC sole essential.
- In summer: choose a breathable but slip-resistant material.
- In case of rain or damp: SRC sole essential.
- Frequency of use
- Occasional: lighter, more economical model.
- Everyday: reinforced sole, superior cushioning and interior comfort.
- Occasional: lighter, more economical model.
✅ Tip: always try the pair on a slightly inclined surface before purchasing. The feeling of grip is the best indicator.
Why choose our Magnetech shoe?
The Magnetech shoe has been specially designed to meet the needs of building fitters and roofers working on metal or pitched roofs.
Its key advantage? A magnetic, non-slip sole that combines mechanical grip with active stability, even on the slipperiest surfaces such as steel.
Highlights :
- High-performance rubber sole, molded directly onto the upper, with grooved pattern to maximize grip.
- 200 J steel toe cap and 1100 N sharps-resistant para-aramid midsole for true worksite protection.
- Durable nubuck leather upper, abrasion-, cut- and heat-resistant up to approx. 100°C.
- Optimized comfort: Cambrella insole + 5 mm EVA for cushioning and breathability, "Walk&Lock" system for fluid walking with magnetic support.
- PPE compatible: designed to be worn on roofs with harnesses, lanyards, etc. Magnetic grip does not replace a fall arrest device, but it does significantly improve safety on metal surfaces.
Today, it's the French benchmark for non-slip roofing footwear, combining safety, comfort and innovation.
Care and proper use to maintain grip
Even the best anti-slip shoes lose their effectiveness if they are poorly maintained.
Here are a few simple rules:
- Clean the soles after each use (dirt, moss, gravel).
- Regularly check the sole profile as soon as it becomes smooth, grip is compromised.
- Leave to dry naturally, away from heat sources.
- Store in a dry place to prevent the rubber from hardening.
- Replace your shoes as soon as you notice a loss of grip.
⚠️ Never rely on footwear alone: combine it with a safety harnessa lanyard and a reliable anchor.
Common mistakes to avoid
Many workers still make basic mistakes:
- Wear classic sneakers or dress shoes on the roof.
- Believe that "more studs" = better grip (it's often the opposite on roofs).
- Forget about ankle support.
- Choosing a pair without checking the SRC or S3.
- Keeping worn or dirty soles.
- Neglect other safety equipment.
A anti-slip roofing shoe is not enough on its own: it must be part of an overall protection system (complete PPE).