The testing machine is equipped with a pressure plate fitted with a test nail; the nail features a truncated tip with a hardness exceeding 60 HRC. The sole specimen is placed on the machine's base plate, positioned so that the test nail can pierce through the outsole. The nail penetrates the sole at a speed of 10 mm/min ± 3 mm/min until breakthrough occurs, and the maximum force required is recorded. Four points are selected on each sole for testing (with at least one point located in the heel area); these points must be spaced at least 30 mm apart and situated more than 10 mm from the edge of the insole. For soles featuring cleats or lugs, the puncture test must be performed in the spaces between them. Two of the four test points must be located within 10–15 mm of the edge line defined by the lasting margin.
If humidity is likely to affect the results, the sole must be immersed in deionized water at 20°C ± 2°C for 16 ± 1 hours prior to testing. Puncture resistance-a core protective feature of safety footwear-is governed by national standards that specify the relevant technical requirements and test methods.