In the updated safety footwear standard, the previous WRU marking has been replaced by two more specific and rigorous classifications. These are Wpa (water penetration and absorption) and WR (complete water resistance), which now form the basis for the entirely new waterproof safety categories of S6 and S7.
The most critical change is the shift from testing only the upper material for water repellency to testing the entire shoe as a complete system. This provides a far more realistic and reliable measure of how footwear will actually perform in wet working conditions.
From Component Testing to Whole-Shoe Integrity
The fundamental update in the standard reflects a move towards more practical, real-world performance metrics. It acknowledges that a shoe's ability to keep water out depends on its overall construction, not just the material on top.
The Old Standard: WRU
The former WRU (Water Repellent Upper) marking only certified that the upper material of the footwear had been tested and met a standard for water resistance. This did not guarantee the seams or sole construction would prevent water ingress.
The New Standard: A Two-Tiered System
The new standard replaces this single, often misleading, marking with a more precise two-level system. This allows for a clearer distinction between water-resistant and fully waterproof footwear.
Decoding the New Water Resistance Markings
Understanding the two new markings is essential for selecting the correct footwear. They represent distinct levels of protection for different environments.
Wpa: Water Penetration and Absorption
The Wpa marking is the direct successor to WRU. It indicates that the footwear provides a good level of resistance to water getting through the upper.
It's designed for conditions where workers face occasional splashes or light rain, but not prolonged exposure or immersion.
WR: Complete Water Resistance
The WR marking signifies a much higher level of protection. Footwear with this rating has been tested as a whole unit to ensure it is completely waterproof.
This is the standard to look for when the user's feet must remain dry in consistently wet environments or during submersion.
Introducing the New Waterproof Categories: S6 and S7
The introduction of the WR marking created the need for new top-tier safety categories that have complete water resistance as a baseline requirement.
What Defines S6 and S7?
Both S6 and S7 categories begin with the core requirements of the S2 and S3 standards, respectively, but add the WR (waterproof) marking as a mandatory feature.
The Key Difference: Puncture Resistance
The distinction between them is simple and aligns with the previous standards.
- S6 footwear is built on an S2 base, meaning it has a safety toe cap but no puncture-resistant midsole.
- S7 footwear is built on an S3 base, meaning it includes both a safety toe cap and a puncture-resistant midsole.
Understanding the Trade-offs and Implications
This new system provides clarity but requires careful selection. A misunderstanding between Wpa and WR can lead to inadequate protection.
Wpa is Not Fully Waterproof
It is critical to remember that Wpa signifies water resistance, not a waterproof guarantee. It is suitable for damp conditions, but not for standing water or heavy, persistent rain.
WR Guarantees a Dry Foot
For roles where keeping feet dry is a non-negotiable safety or comfort requirement, only footwear marked with WR, S6, or S7 will suffice.
A Broader Shift to Realistic Testing
This change is part of a larger update to the standard. For example, the old slip-resistance tests (SRA, SRB) have also been updated to a single SR marking that uses a more realistic test method, simulating a natural walking motion. This shows the standard's overall move toward more practical and reliable safety ratings.
Making the Right Choice for Your Environment
Use this guide to select footwear that provides the precise level of protection required for your specific operational needs.
- If your primary focus is protection from occasional splashes or light rain: Look for footwear marked with
Wpa. - If your primary focus is keeping feet completely dry in prolonged wet conditions: You must select footwear marked
WR, which will fall into the newS6orS7categories. - If you need full water resistance and protection from sole puncture: Your definitive choice is footwear rated
S7.
By understanding these new, more practical ratings, you can confidently select the exact level of water protection your team requires.
Summary Table:
| Marking | Definition | Protection Level | Replaces |
|---|---|---|---|
| Wpa | Water Penetration and Absorption | Resists splashes and light rain | WRU |
| WR | Complete Water Resistance | Keeps feet dry in prolonged wet conditions or submersion | N/A (New) |
| S6 | Safety Toe Cap + WR (No Puncture Protection) | Waterproof, basic safety | N/A (New Category) |
| S7 | Safety Toe Cap + Puncture-Resistant Midsole + WR | Waterproof, full protection | N/A (New Category) |
Ensure your team has the right waterproof protection. As a large-scale manufacturer, 3515 produces a comprehensive range of certified S6 and S7 safety footwear for distributors, brand owners, and bulk clients. Our production capabilities ensure you get durable, compliant footwear tested for real-world conditions. Contact us today for a quote and expert guidance.
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