Portwest FC19 Apex Composite Safety Shoes
Combine a low shoe profile with a broad set of workplace protection features in the Portwest FC19 Apex. Its action leather upper, composite toe cap and puncture resistant midsole make it an option when choosing footwear for tasks that need protection both above and below the foot.
A PU/rubber sole pairs cushioning with a tread designed for working surfaces, while the comfort footbed supports everyday wear. The protective scuff cap covers an area that often meets abrasion during practical tasks, helping protect the front of the upper from routine wear.
The FC19 is fully metal free and has ESD properties for suitable controlled environments. These features can help narrow the choice for specialist workplaces, but the shoe must still match the site's footwear requirements. Select protection for the actual task rather than relying on appearance alone.
Water resistance in the upper, reflective trim and a heat resistant outsole add to the shoe's specification. Choose the available size and colour combination that suits your team, then compare our work and safety shoes if another protection level or style is required.
Key Features & Benefits
- Composite protection: toe cap and puncture resistant midsole within a metal-free construction.
- Action leather upper: water resistant material for tasks requiring this feature.
- ESD suitability: designed for appropriate electrostatic discharge controlled environments.
- PU/rubber sole: dual density construction with heel energy absorption and SR slip resistance.
- HRO outsole: heat resistance tested at 300°C under the applicable test conditions.
- Scuff protection and comfort: front scuff cap, cushioned footbed and reflective trim.
Directions for Use
Match the footwear to workplace hazards
Check the supplied S3S ESD HRO SR SC FO markings against your workplace assessment. Consider impact, sharp objects, floor conditions, water and heat exposure. HRO describes tested outsole performance; it is not permission to stand on hot surfaces or a guarantee of whole-foot protection from heat.
Choose and secure the fit
Try both shoes with your normal work socks and fasten the laces evenly. Check for a secure heel, enough toe space and comfortable pressure across the instep. Walk a short distance before putting the shoes into service, and choose a different size if tightening cannot give a comfortable fit.
Use within the ESD control system
Follow your workplace procedure for checking footwear in the intended ESD area. Floor conditions, socks, insoles and contamination can affect the footwear system's performance. ESD footwear controls electrostatic discharge; it does not provide electrical insulation for work involving live electrical hazards.
Inspect, clean and store
Check the leather, laces, scuff cap and sole before use, following the supplied inspection and replacement guidance. Clean with methods suitable for the upper and remove tread debris. Dry naturally away from direct heat, store in a dry place and replace footwear that is damaged or no longer serviceable.
Product Specifications
| Specification |
Details |
| Brand and model |
Portwest FC19 Apex |
| Style and upper |
Low safety shoe; water resistant action leather |
| Toe and underfoot protection |
Composite toe cap and puncture resistant composite midsole |
| Construction |
100% metal free |
| Sole |
PU/rubber, dual density |
| Footwear standard |
EN ISO 20345:2022 +A1:2024 S3S |
| Additional markings |
ESD, HRO, SR, SC and FO |
| ESD standard |
IEC 61340-5-1:2016 |
| Outsole heat resistance |
300°C test rating |
| Comfort and wear features |
Cushioned footbed, heel energy absorption, scuff cap and reflective trim |
| Sizes and colours |
EU 35–47; Black/Blue and Black/Yellow, subject to the available options |
FAQs
Is FC19 a steel toe safety shoe?
No. Its toe cap and protective midsole use composite materials, and Portwest specifies a fully metal-free construction. This provides an alternative where non-metallic footwear is required. Always confirm any additional site requirements rather than assuming that metal-free construction meets every workplace rule.
Are these shoes waterproof?
The action leather upper is water resistant. That is different from a guarantee that the complete shoe will remain dry during immersion or prolonged wet exposure. For jobs with demanding water exposure, select footwear with the whole-shoe protection required by the workplace assessment.
What does the 300°C outsole rating mean?
It refers to the outsole's HRO heat resistance under the standard's test conditions. It does not describe a safe working temperature for the foot or the entire shoe. Use suitable task-specific protection and working methods wherever hot surfaces, molten material or other heat hazards are present.
Can ESD footwear protect me from electric shock?
No. ESD footwear is intended to help manage electrostatic discharge in a suitable control system, not to electrically insulate the wearer. If the job presents a risk from live electrical equipment, follow the electrical risk assessment and use protection specified for that work.
How do the scuff cap and slip-resistant sole help?
The scuff cap protects the toe area of the upper against abrasion, while the SR-rated sole provides tested slip resistance. Neither feature removes the need for inspection or safe working conditions. Keep the tread clear and replace the shoes when wear or damage affects their suitability.
How do I choose between the available options?
Select your size and colour on this page, then assess the fit with your usual work socks. The fastening should hold the foot securely without creating pressure points. Contact Astral Hygiene if you need help confirming the specification or choosing an alternative safety shoe.
