Australian work boot

The shoe lacks a tongue, and laces, and often contains a steel toe cap for occupational health and safety reasons.

The sole is generally polyurethane and the leather uppers are treated to be resistant to hot water, fats and mild alkaline and acid solutions.

The elasticated side design, originally invented in England by Joseph Sparkes Hall in 1837,[1] allows the wearer to put on or remove their boots without the hassle of laces, while enjoying the firm fit of lace-up boots.

In addition due to the boot not using laces, the fit is less tight, allowing the foot to breathe, which is beneficial in warm weather.

Additionally, the lack of a shoe tongue makes waterproofing the boot easier.