PHAM NEWS | MAY 2026 32 Tools& Workwear


Put a spring in your step


Peter Lawson explains why the latest innovation in safety footwear represents a true step change in comfort for plumbing and heating engineers.


P


icture a standard pair of safety shoes or boots, the chances are they would be clunky, heavy and


almost certainly lacking in style. For far too long, unless paying above the odds for a designer name, most safety footwear has compromised comfort and design in the name of protection. Hardly ideal, of course, especially as today’s plumbing and heating engineers continue to work longer hours than ever before, much of which is spent on their feet. This is where a breakthrough in comfort technology comes in. Bobcat Safety Footwear has been launched to challenge the conventions in the safety footwear game with sharp styling, lightweight composite safety features, ergonomic design and unmatched, all-day wearability. At its core is smart


engineering built to maximise comfort with every step. Utilising the Redbacks cushioning system, every pair features energy-returning


Leaf-Spring Technology insoles. Developed by experts in podiatry and biomechanics, this unique technology has been purpose-built to help reduce fatigue, distribute pressure evenly and deliver long-lasting comfort through the toughest shifts. Independent testing proved that this technology improves absorption of impact shock by up to 46%, delivering industry-leading protection and outperforming rival insoles by as much as 30%.


Peter Lawson Brand manager for Overland Shoes


... the result is, quite possibly, the most wearable safety footwear on the market


Additional benefi ts The upshot is not just all- day wearability, even for the toughest shifts, but better posture, alignment and reduced injury risk with every step. The technology has also been proven to reduce strain on joints, tendons and the plantar fascia for improved lower-body wellbeing. Meanwhile, features such as lightweight materials, composite safety toe caps, metal-free construction and puncture-resistant midsoles ensure maximum protection without sacrifi cing fl exibility or comfort. Combined with an adaptive fi t, the result is, quite possibly, the most wearable safety footwear on the market. Comfort, however, is only part of the story. We know that today’s installers are not just working long hours but across diverse environments and industries. That’s why we’ve taken careful measures to ensure there’s a suitable option for every requirement.


Functional and not just for work


Let there be light


The TAC Series by Ledlenser is a line of tactical fl ashlights that have been designed for use by law enforcement, military users and emergency services, but also very useful for any installers working in environments where reliable lighting is needed in confi ned, low-visibility spaces or dark outdoor conditions. The series uses a dual-lens system that allows


switching between fl ood and focused beam output, with some models also off ering combined beam modes. Select versions include RGB light functions for tasks such as low-visibility navigation or night-adapted use. Controls are designed for quick operation, using either a tail switch or a mode selection ring. The TAC7R is the highest-output model at up to 3,200 lumens, while the TAC6R is a more compact option and the TT3R is off ered as a general-purpose multi-use torch. ◼ phamnews.co.uk/526/44


The 2026 collection from Scruff s Workwear combines apparel and protective footwear designed for practical use in work environments. The collection includes items


such as the Fintry Sweatshirt, a cotton-rich layer for general use on or off site, and the Switchback 3 Safety Boot in a stone colourway, which is rated S3 for industrial safety use and includes slip resistance and protective features. Other clothing in the range includes the Women’s Harbour Fleece and the Women’s Tamworth Hoodie, both designed for layering and general worksite wear. Footwear and utility items


include the Telford Safety Trainer, which features a composite midplate and toe protection with an SBP EN20345 rating, and the Alverton 8 inch Short, which incorporates multiple pockets and a stretch waistband for carrying


tools. The collection refl ects continued demand for functional work clothing that can also be worn outside of traditional work settings, with further product releases planned later in 2026. ◼ phamnews.co.uk/526/45


The Fargo by Bobcat Safety Footware


That’s not to mention women- specifi c ranges and more, all found across 27 SKUs and safety ratings from S3 to S7.


Virginia Dealer boot


At height For those working from a height, the Forge series delivers precision performance with ladder grip technology, while the Rapid and Toledo ensure indoor/outdoor versatility. Then there’s the Keystone series that off ers heat-resistant protection for more arduous environments, while the Bastion series provides maximum protection with heavy-duty boots for the most demanding applications.


In style Another big appeal is the range’s distinctive design. With Bobcat Safety Footwear, bland, boring, clunky safety boots become a thing of the past, with each pair combining bold, sharp styling that looks as good as it feels. Added to that too is a competitive price point, with the range priced between £85 and £125, enabling installers to access the latest footwear innovation without the premium price tag. As we see it, comfort isn’t a luxury but an essential, especially for today’s busy installers. With safety, wellbeing and performance more important than ever, it’s surely time to take an innovative leap by taking advantage of the latest generation of safety footwear. ◼ phamnews.co.uk/526/43


Online tool simplifi es drill adaptor selection


Clipacore has introduced a new online tool to help customers select compatible drill adaptors for their existing equipment. The Clipacore Adapter Finder is designed for users who already own core bits and need to identify the correct connecting components for diff erent drill types. The Adapter


Finder guides users through a short series of steps to determine which drill adaptor is required, whether an extension setup is needed, and how many QCCA Core Adaptors are necessary for their core bits. It also includes an option for users who are unsure about their drill’s output, directing them to additional support at the end of the process. The system reduces uncertainty caused by


diff erences in drill outputs, chuck types and thread confi gurations. Clipacore also provides an assisted support route where customers can submit details and images of their drill for further guidance on compatibility. ◼ phamnews.co.uk/526/46


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