Nurses are often on their feet, which can cause tension and pain in their calves, heels, back, and hips. That’s why they prefer wearing shoes that help reduce their discomfort.
Podiatrist Dr. Howard Freidman recommends that people on their feet all day at work should alternate between wearing sneakers and clogs to keep their feet comfortable. He says that a shoe cushion becomes compressed within six hours, so workers should have a backup pair of shoes in case the first pair gets uncomfortable.
Top 3 Nursing Shoes For Women
- Best Overall Shoe for Nurses – Dansko Professional Mule Women’s Clogs
- Runner-up Shoe for Nurses – Skechers Women’s Flex Appeal 2.0
- Alternative Shoe for Nurses – Hoka Bondi 7 Women’s Running Shoes
Top 3 Nursing Shoes for Men
- Best Overall Shoe for Nurses – Men’s Dansko Professional Clog
- Runner-up Shoe for Nurses – Skechers Sport Men’s Vigor 2.0
- Alternative Shoe for Nurses – Men’s Hoka Bondi 7 Shoes
While I can’t make you shoes, these 11 will fit your needs quite well. My top picks are above, but feel free to consider others!
You see, I’ve done the legwork and scoured various e-stores for these nurses’ shoes. However, I won’t just suggest one place to buy from; I’ll provide several options so that you can get the best deal possible. All that said, let’s get to it.
Top 11 Best Shoes for Nurses Working On Their Feet All Day
Dansko Professional Mule Clogs
For the fastest and most comfortable walk in the hospital, there’s no better shoe than the top on our list, the Dansko Professional Mule Women’s Clog (find the Men’s Dansko Professional Clogs here).
Dansko Women’s Professional Honey Distressed
These rocker-bottom shoes are made of leather and polyurethane, with the sole purpose of protecting your back and other body parts from the stress of standing or walking while on duty. The rocker bottoms of their outsoles also propel your foot forward to increase shock absorption.
On the sturdy ¾ inch-long and 2-inch wide platform of the Dansko Professional Mule Clog, your foot can rock back and forth with little fear of slippage.
With wide toe boxes that cushion your toes and padded instep collars that won’t irritate your skin, these clogs won’t let you down. To clean them, wipe them off with a damp cloth or sponge.
Dansko shoes are a favorite among healthcare professionals, not just nurses. Despite their clunky appearance, they are lightweight and offer a good grip on slippery surfaces.
Don’t forget to wear ankle-length socks while breaking them in. It’s also a good idea to protect your heel and the top of your foot where the shoe ends from further or potential bruises with a moleskin or a bandage.
HOKA Bondi 7 Women’s Running Shoes
The Hoka Bondi 7 Women’s Running Shoes ( check out the Men’s Hoka Bondi 7 here) have several features that make them one of the best shoes for nurses and health care professionals. Not only do they fit best in a hospital setting, where nurses constantly rush up and down the hallways to fulfill their duties, but they also come in handy when running after an escaped mental patient or other unforeseeable calamities.
HOKA ONE ONE Bondi 7 Women’s Shoes
Available in various color combinations to choose from, the Hoka Bondi 7 is a premium shoe that stands out from the pack. It has a padded insole that provides extra cushioning for arch support and long-lasting comfort.
These nursing shoes are often touted as the best for plantar fasciitis, thanks to their mesh uppers and padded tongues.
The HOKA brand might not be as famous as other shoes on this list, but it’s no less deserving of a spot. These shoes were made with your feet in mind.
If you don’t love HOKA shoes after a 30-day trial, send them back for a full refund or exchange. But I doubt you’ll need to take advantage of this warranty. Their cushioned sneakers are designed to feel smooth, soft, and efficient on every step. Wear them for one day, and it’ll be love at first stride.
Neira Pro II Crocs
The Neira Pro II Crocs are the perfect choice for nurses looking for more work-appropriate shoes to get them through long shifts. They offer unbeatable comfort and are made with synthetic materials for a lightweight feel.
Crocs Neria Pro II Embellished Women’s Clogs
Neira clogs are an easy-to-wash alternative to other nursing shoes. Their fun patterns and bright colors help nurses stay stylish even while saving lives.
Women, who typically wear these clogs, love the fact that their footbed liners can be removed and washed. Perfect for hospitals where you constantly have to deal with spills, these closed-toe shoes provide excellent protection from the mess.
The Neria Pros weigh only 10 ounces, so your feet won’t feel like lead at the end of a long shift. Their wide-toe box design means air can circulate your tootsies freely, ensuring they don’t overheat.
Combine these clogs’ patented Crocs Lock™ slip-resistant tread with enhanced arch support, and you’re ready for any shift. Wear them on your feet if you have heel pain, flat feet, bunions, plantar fasciitis, or as prescribed by your podiatrist.
Alegria Women’s Classic Clogs
Next on our list of the best nursing shoes are Alegria Women’s Classic Clogs. It has a low heel measuring about 1.5 inches, and its platform is about an inch high. The shoe’s upper is made of leather, and its outsole is of rubber— the exact recipe for supreme comfort and stability.
Alegria’s Classic Clogs come with adjustable buckles, which means you can adjust them to how snug or otherwise you need them. They’re hand-stitched and therefore durable, as opposed to their machine-made competitors that fall apart within weeks.
Alegria Women’s Classic Clog
And these shoes are a hit among nurses, respiratory therapists, and healthcare professionals alike—so much so that they’ve been dubbed the “Uber” of clogs. Why else would they be on our highly-esteemed list of best shoes for nurses? Just asking.
ASICS GT-2000 9 Women’s Running Shoes
The ASICS GT-2000 9 Women’s Running Shoes (find the Men’s ASICS GT-2000 9 here) are a great pair of shoes for those who wear scrubs. They are designed with comfort in mind and are an ideal choice for nurses, doctors, respiratory therapists—and anyone else who spends all day on their feet.
ASICS Women’s Gt-2000 9 Shoes
These shoes have padded rubber soles that grip any surface. Furthermore, their heels and interiors are cushioned through Asics patented gel and FLYTEFOAM® technologies, which jointly absorb shock efficiently and keep your feet feeling fresh.
If you’re a nurse looking for running shoes, the Asics GT-2000s might be perfect for your job. As their name implies, these shoes can serve double duty as stable work shoes and running sneakers.
Skechers Women’s Flex Appeal 2.0 Sneaker
Skechers knows that comfort is the number one priority for nurses who are on their feet all day. And they’ve got just the nursing shoes for you: comfortable, stylish Skechers that ensure your feet stay healthy and happy, even if you’re walking (and sometimes running) an average of 4 to 5 miles each shift!
If you’re a medical professional looking for the best nursing shoes for wide feet—and one who also happens to have wide feet—Skechers Women’s Flex Appeal 2.0 Sneaker has your name written all over it. It stretches enough to accommodate even the widest of feet, even in every standard size.
Nurses and other healthcare workers who stand all day give this shoe two thumbs up. It’s lightweight, simple, and easy to slip on and off. With its memory foam insole, you don’t have to sacrifice comfort for style.
Skechers Women’s Flex Appeal 2.0 Sneakers
On the other hand, men who like to run hot and perspire while at it will love the Skechers Sport Men’s Vigor 2.0. Its mesh fabric feels like a thin T-shirt that allows moisture to evaporate from your skin.
Skechers Sport Men’s Vigor 2.0 Trait Memory Foam Sneakers
These Skechers have a patented insole system with podiatrist-certified arch support backed by over 20 years of data from 120,000 unweighted foot scans. The removable insoles will mold to your feet to reduce shocks and distribute your body weight equitably across the shoes.
If you have flat feet and work as a nurse, consider purchasing these bold shoes for active use throughout your shift.
Brooks Addiction Walker
The Brooks Addiction Walker for women (get the Men’s Brooks Addiction Walker here) is so comfortable that many therapists and doctors recommend it.
Brooks Women’s Addiction Walker V-Strap 2 Shoes
Featuring supportive cushioning and a thick rubber and foam sole, these shoes’ insoles are a dream come true for people with knee, foot, and ankle problems. However, the insoles can be removed and replaced with orthotics.
Brooks Addiction Walker shoes have become wildly popular among users with ankle, foot, and knee problems. These customers claim that the shoes’ durable construction and slip-resistant outsoles make them as addictive as drugs.
Your feet will feel like they’re walking on cloud nine with the extra soft cushioning in Brooks Addiction Walkers. The only downside is that they’re not stylish enough to wear outside work.
But if your workplace has a strict dress code that forbids patterns anyway, you won’t be missing out on anything because these sneakers will support your arches sufficiently.
Nike Revolution 5
The Nike Revolution 5 Running Shoe is the pinnacle of the brand’s success. In addition to providing stability and support, this lightweight shoe features a dual-density midsole to keep your foot stable and a soft interior to cushion your lower limb.
Nike Women’s Revolution 5 Wide Shoes
The Revolution 5 is the most breathable shoe in its class because of its knit upper and plush lining. And if you’re not afraid of colors, you can choose from several options.
Even if you’re not running a marathon on your feet as a nurse, you might have to dash occasionally. With an excellent running shoe like the Nike Revolution 5, you’ll be ready to sprint when called upon.
Sanita Professional Cabrio
Why not opt for a clog that is both practical and stylish? I recommend the Sanita Cabrio Professional Clog (women’s) and their male counterparts, Sanita Pro Cabrio Clogs for men.
Sanita Women’s Professional Cabrio Clog
There’s plenty of toe room in this shoe, so you don’t have to worry about your toes getting cramped. The padded instep secures your foot in the clog, and the shock-absorbing polyurethane sole makes for a sturdy yet comfortable stride.
If you’re a nurse in the ER, you’ll want to wear the Sanita Pro Cabrios. They have protective heel cups to prevent blisters, and their outsoles feature slip-resistant rocker bottoms so you can move around safely on the hospital’s slippery floors. These clogs come in narrow, regular, and wide widths.
Alegria Keli Professional
“If your job requires you to be up and on your feet for a longer period, your shoe should support the arch,” says Bergin, who would have recommended Keli PRO clogs from Alegria. They provide extra arch support through their removable footbeds made of memory foam, cork, and latex—all materials that conform to the natural outlines of your foot.
Alegria Women’s Keli Professional Shoes
The tongue is padded for comfort, and the outsole is slip-resistant. Both features promote healthy posture, which reduces stress on the wearer’s muscles and joints.
The upper is stain-resistant, making it a great choice for anyone who wants to keep their footwear clean. A damp cloth will do the job of cleaning the dirt from the shoe. It’s also available in medium and wide widths and 30 colors and patterns.
SoftWalk Grey’s Anatomy Miranda
In a world rife with slip-and-fall lawsuits, nothing is more important than your slip-resistant nursing shoes—except maybe a good lawyer.
“A non-slip rubber sole is best when you work as a nurse,” says Brittney Wilson. The SoftWalk Grey’s Anatomy Miranda, inspired by the popular TV show “Grey’s Anatomy,” is specially designed for nurses and other female health professionals.
SoftWalk Women’s Miranda Mary Jane Flats
The Miranda has a plush and roomy toe box, which is ideal for protecting your feet. It’s made of leather, so it’s breathable and easy to clean. The midsole is as light as a feather and absorbs shock like no other.
An antimicrobial velvet layer covers the removable footbed, which offers excellent arch support and heel cushioning. This shoe comes in various colors and patterns in medium and wide widths.
Why Does a Nurse Need Good Shoes?
Nurses must be on their feet for most of their 12-hour shifts, so they need well-made, comfortable shoes. Many nurses’ shoes available on the market come in various shapes and colors—much like the personalities of nurses themselves—which makes choosing the right pair a problematic task.
As you can see, I have listed 11 pairs of shoes here. Even though I started with the intention of choosing only a few, the truth is that different people have different-sized and shaped feet, so I just had to offer a more extensive selection. The most mind-blowing part is that this list is not even exhaustive!
Unlike ordinary shoes, which are best left alone, nursing shoes can be worth investing in. They offer lightweight support and other features that reduce back pain and numbness caused by spending the whole day working in low-quality shoes.
What Are The Types of Nursing Shoes Available?
Here are some of the most common types of nursing shoes found in stores:
Clogs
These shoes are so comfortable and stylish that they should be illegal. They have spacious fronts and open backs for maximum ventilation, so your feet will sing the praises of these cute little numbers. Plus, they relieve the pain in pressure points, enable the wearer to move around faster, and maintain a healthy posture.
Mary Janes Flats
These shoes are meant for nurses on the go who want a comfortable pair of shoes they can quickly put on and take off. The strap design leaves a large portion of your upper foot exposed, allowing for quickly slipping on and taking off.
Slip-Ons
If you’re in a busy hospital environment and have trouble keeping your laces tied, slip-ons may be the solution. They are easy to clean and maintain and highly comfortable. These reliable nursing shoes are one of the best choices for hospital staff as they provide all the support, comfort, and anti-fatigue needed during your shift.
Sneakers
Nursing sneakers are made for long shifts, so they’re as comfortable as flats and sturdy as heels. These kicks can be worn by nurses with heel pain, flat feet, back pain, or plantar fasciitis.
Skechers Women’s Flex Appeal 2.0 Sneakers
What Features Should You Consider When Looking for Best Shoes of Nurses?
The right shoes can make the difference between a nurse being on her feet all day and remaining comfortable and productive. Here are a few factors to help you pick the best shoes for nurses:
Comfort
If you need comfortable nursing shoes, look for a happy middle ground between support and flexibility. Ultra-soft shoes may seem cushy initially, but they’ll make your toes feel like they’re being stabbed by the end of the day.
Durability
If you’re looking for a pair of shoes that will keep your feet comfortable and happy during your shift, consider investing in a pair of rubber-soled nursing clogs. The comfort and support of these shoes are unparalleled, which will allow you to walk with ease throughout your entire shift.
Nursing shoes made of leather or canvas may look appealing, but they usually lack the durability needed to withstand long days on your feet. Also, many such shoes aren’t as easy to clean—a major drawback if you deal with bodily fluids regularly.
Slip Resistance
Work in a hospital long enough, and you’ll see your share of spills and fluids. So make sure to get slip-resistant shoes with an excellent grip to keep you safe while on duty.
Appearance
There’s a nursing shoe for every foot type and medical condition, from Crocs to athletic sneakers, clogs, and running shoes. You’ll need a podiatrist’s advice on which type of nursing shoe is best for your particular case. But never sacrifice your comfort for the pretty design of any shoe.
Weight
Heavy and clunky shoes might impede your performance on the job, especially since you spend much of the day on your feet. Choose lightweight, comfortable shoes instead.
Maximum Shock Absorption
Nurses should seek out shoes that absorb the impact of their footfalls while still providing enough support to keep their feet comfortable.
Insoles
The best shoes for nurses should have curved insoles to cradle the arches of your feet.
Price
Prices of the best shoes for nurses can vary greatly depending on the material, pattern, and construction of the shoe. But if you think about it, expensive shoes are often more comfortable than cheaper ones and offer more benefits.
Support
Every nurse should wear shoes with good arch support, and every shoe on this list meets that essential requirement. But if you’re going to be on your feet all day, you may want to consider compression socks—they’ll force blood that would’ve pooled in your feet back up toward the heart, minimizing foot and ankle cramps and swelling.
What Are The Benefits of a Good Shoes for Nurses?
Here’s why you need a good pair of shoes as a healthcare worker:
Good Posture
Nurses spend most of their days on their feet. Wearing comfortable shoes helps them maintain the correct posture, which in turn helps alleviate back, leg, and foot pain.
Prevention of Accidents and Injuries
A good nursing shoe should be lightweight and have anti-slip features, ensuring that the nurse doesn’t trip on their way to an invalid’s bedside or slip while carrying the patient’s lunch tray.
Efficiency
A good pair of nursing shoes can help nurses to avoid fatigue and leg and back pain, motivating them to be more productive at work.
Speed and Endurance
Comfortable shoes help you walk, run, and move around more quickly. A nurse’s job requires a lot of physical exertion, which is why they need long-lasting, lightweight footwear.
How to find the Best Shoes For Nurses
When a nurse is looking for a pair of nurse shoes, they should consider three things: comfort, style and ease of cleaning. There are many different types of shoes available that can suit the needs of any nurse.
The best way to find the perfect pair (if you struggle with online shopping) is to try on the options at physical stores, taking care to settle for the ones ideal for your foot type.
When all’s said and done, you want shoes that allow your feet to breathe, provide exceptional support, and have high-quality rubber outsoles and padded tongues. Consider the unique design and style of each shoe as well. Be open to trying on different brands and styles before deciding on your final choice.
In the medical field, you’re on your feet way more than you’d like to be. So invest in some good shoes—it’ll pay off in the long run!
To make it easy for you to remember everything said in this short and sweet post, I’ll resound my favorite three nursing shoes for women and men below.
Overall Top Pics for Best Shoes For Nurses (Women’s Shoes)
- Best Overall Shoe for Nurses – Dansko Professional Mule Women’s Clogs
- Runner-up Shoe for Nurses – Skechers Women’s Flex Appeal 2.0
- Alternative Shoe for Nurses – Hoka Bondi 7 Women’s Running Shoes
Overall, Top Pics Best Shoes for Nurses (Men’s Shoes)
- Best Overall Shoe for Nurses – Men’s Dansko Professional Clog
- Runner-up Shoe for Nurses – Skechers Sport Men’s Vigor 2.0
- Alternative Shoe for Nurses – Men’s Hoka Bondi 7 Shoes
But if you’re interested in a more in-depth analysis of the best shoes for nurses with specific conditions or concerns, check out my other articles: