When you work in the healthcare industry, especially as a nurse, you are usually on your feet all day, making the right shoe a significant part of your uniform.
Plantar fasciitis is a very common condition not just in athletes but as well as nurses. It’s a chronic condition that can lead to severe pain in the heels or behind the feet.
Best Overall Women’s Shoes For Nurses with Plantar Fasciitis
- Best Overall Shoes For Nurses with Plantar Fasciitis – Dansko Professional Mule Clogs
- Very Close Runner-up Shoe For Nurses with Plantar Fasciitis – Orthofeet’s Plantar Fasciitis Orthopedic Shoe
- Alternate Best Shoes For Nurses with Plantar Fasciitis – Specialist II Crocs Clogs (Unisex)
Best Overall Shoes for Male Nurses with Plantar Fasciitis
- Best Overall Shoes For Nurses with Plantar Fasciitis – Men’s Dansko Professional Clog
- Very Close Runner-up Shoe For Nurses with Plantar Fasciitis – Men’s Orthofeet Plantar Fasciitis Orthopedic Shoe
- Alternate Best Shoes For Nurses with Plantar Fasciitis – Specialist II Crocs Clogs (Unisex)
Due to various footwear selections in the market, it can be challenging to find the right shoe that properly accommodates your condition when dealing with plantar fasciitis. The best nursing shoes for plantar fasciitis offer an excellent balance of support, comfort, mobility, and protection.
As a nurse who suffers from Plantar fasciitis, choosing the right shoes can influence their performance at work by ensuring utmost comfort and support. So, we’ve rounded up the best shoes for nurses with plantar fasciitis to help you decide.
11 Best Shoes For Nurses With Plantar Fasciitis
Dansko Professional Mule Clogs
Our top list for the best shoes for nurses is no other than the Dansko Professional Mule Women’s Clogs (Find the Men’s Dansko Professional Clog here).
This footwear is made of leather with a rocker bottom. The base is made with polyurethane to help absorb shock and add comfort while wearing. These shoes are intended this way to protect your back and lower body parts from the stress of standing and walking while on duty.
The shoe’s versatile design propels the foot forward to prevent the user from moving. It helps maintain energy to ensure your feet feel fresh the entire 12-hour shift—also, the wide two-inch heel adds extra stability.
Dansko Professional Mule Clog’s platform is about three-quarters of an inch and two-inch-wide heel for extra stability. The toe of the shoe features a bolstered toe case and a padded instep collar. These shoes are easily cleaned with a damp cloth or sponge to remove any surface dirt.
Crocs Specialist II Clogs
The Specialist II Crocs Clogs (Unisex) is part of the Crocs Rx line specifically designed for medical professionals.
The Crocs Specialist II clogs are unisex with a 100% synthetic upper which means they can withstand spills and protect your feet from sharp objects accidentally falling.
The Rx line of Crocs has enhanced arch support and enhanced slip resistance.
These shoes are easy to clean and made with Crocs famous Croslite material making them odor resistant, supportive, and light on your feet.
These are the most effective budget-friendly shoes I could recommend for busy nurses on the go during a long shift!
Neira Pro 2 Crocs
For the ladies only, the Neira Pro 2 Crocs are also part of the Crocs Rx line, therefore offering a more work-appropriate feel for nurses in the hospital.
This synthetic closed-toe shoe with molded footbeds and enhanced arch support provides nurses with a comfortable shoe that can get them through long shifts.
The clogs come in a variety of colors and patterns thereby allowing nurses to stay stylish and effective while being comfortable. The Neira clogs are non-slip, easy to wash with soap and water, and are easy to dry.
These clogs are usually worn by women and have removable footbed liners that can be washed. These closed-toe clogs are excellent in preventing spills which could be uncommon when working in a hospital. They weigh only 10 ounces making them ideal for long shifts requiring constant movement.
Asics Women’s Gel-Venture 8 Running-Shoes
If you have flat feet, Asics Women’s Gel-Venture 8 Running Shoes (and for men, click here to view the Asics Gel-Venture 8 Running Shoes) is your best choice.
These shoes come with all the necessary features you’ll generally associate with plantar fasciitis shoes – removable insole, shock-absorbent cushion technology, and a comfortable design. All these features allow you to walk with the shoes comfortably for hours without any trouble.
This nursing shoe is also available in a different range of colors, making it easier to match them off with your scrubs.
Although they’re reasonably inexpensive shoes, two things hold these shoes back:
- The heel area is wide, which can cause it to slip off if you have small feet.
- Some wearers complained about sizing problems. (visit ASICS sizing guide & ASICS shoe width guide to make sure you get the right fit!)
Consider these factors before buying and probably purchase a size smaller than your regular footwear size.
Vionic’s Walking Shoe
Vionic’s Women’s Walking Shoe (click here for Vionic Men’s Walking Shoe) is ideal for you if you’re into stylish orthotic sneakers, especially if you have foot ailments. It is a podiatrist-designed nursing shoe that accommodates those who work on their feet every day.
This fashionable and versatile shoe comprises durable leather materials and a multi-sequins top with mesh detailing for better airflow. As soon as your heel touches the ground until you lift them, these shoes provide a full range of motion.
A flexible front part allows for a comfortable, stress-free lift-off in every step. A firm heel supports the foot’s back and holds it in place while wearing the sneakers. Furthermore, the mid-foot stays in an adequate level of firmness, including a TPU shank that holds the foot and protects your arch.
It also features a detachable contoured orthotic insole with extra cushioning and a supportive mold that conforms around the foot. Since the insoles are removable, you can also replace them if you need a specialized footbed to assist with your condition.
Vionic’s walking sneakers are one of the best shoes for nurses, as it provides a high degree of durability and comfort while performing daily duties in the hospital.
New Balance Women’s 1080v11 Running Shoe
One of our top favorites in this list is the New Balance Women’s 1080 v11 Running Shoe (click here for the New Balance Men’s Fresh Foam 1080 v11 Running Shoe). Like most running shoes, they provide nurses with the utmost flexibility and comfort to walk around with ease.
They’re also a great match with scrubs due to their soft color design. As far as comfort is regarded, you’ll surely love how soft and plushy these shoes are.
The cushioning system protects the heels from unexpected impact and prevents them from hurting your sensitive spots. They’ve also attached another room in the toe area to make it convenient for nurses with wide feet.
The mesh upper keeps your feet dry and sweat-free all day. In contrast, the tough rubber soles stop them from becoming worn out after excessive use.
Birkenstock Boston Slip Resistant Work Shoe
Birkenstock is a popular German footwear brand established way back in 1774. The company offers a comprehensive range of comfortable and supportive footwear sold in more than 90 countries worldwide, including the United States.
Birkenstock Boston Slip Resistant Unisex Sandal is super-grip footwear that allows nurses to move around in style and comfort. It features a full-grain leather upper that’s easily wiped and can be fine-tuned with the strap at the instep for a customized fit.
Birkenstock Unisex Boston Soft Footbed Leather Clogs
This shoe highlights a molded cork footbed that adapts to the shape of your foot for top-level arch support.
This nursing shoe has an EVA foam midsole for exceptional cushioning and a slip-resistant rubber outsole for a solid grip on all surfaces.
Birkenstock shoes are known for their spacious fit, which keeps you from worrying about the fitting when the feet start swelling after a hectic day at work. It is available in two colors – black and white.
If you like Birks but want something that has a back strap, then you could consider the Birkenstock Tokyo Super Grip Unisex Sandal. Another great choice with the world-renowned Birkenstock footbed!
Hoka Bondi 7 Women’s Running Shoes
The Hoka Bondi 7 Women’s Running Shoes (Men’s Hoka Bondi 7)have several features that make them one of the best nurses’ shoes. Considering they’re designed to run on hard surfaces, they fit best in the hospital, where nurses constantly rush up and down the hallways to fulfill their duties.
HOKA ONE ONE Bondi 7 Women’s Shoes
Like the rest of the shoes on our list, Hoka Bondi 7 offers a variety of color combinations. Although they’re more expensive than most shoes on our list, their premium features make them stand out from the rest.
Many users claimed that these are the best nursing shoes for plantar fasciitis due to their ComfortFrame upper material and a padded tongue that focuses on the comfort of your top foot more than any other shoe on our list.
The Ortholite Insole also provides extra cushioning for arch support and long-lasting comfort.
Crocs Women’s Mercy Clog
Crocs is one of the world’s fastest-growing footwear brands, launched seventeen years ago. The distinguished American company offers a large collection of top-quality shoes retailed at affordable costs. That’s why I’ve also included the Crocs Mercy Clog, again only available for women.
If you’re looking for a supportive and comfortable work shoe for nurses with plantar fasciitis, Crocs Mercy Clog is your best option. It has plenty of innovative comfort features to guarantee comfort all day throughout your shift.
The cushioning is a unique contoured footbed for excellent arch support, a non-stain, long-lasting outsole for a firm grip on all areas, plus heel straps for a secured, protected fit.
This stylish clog is lightweight, odor-resistant, fast-drying, and easy to maintain. Lastly, it also comes in a spacious design loved and trusted by nurses and other healthcare professionals.
Orthofeet’s Plantar Fasciitis Orthopedic Shoe
Orthofeet’s Women’s Plantar Fasciitis Orthopedic Shoe (click here for the Orthofeet Plantar Fasciitis Orthopedic Shoe for men) is an orthotic sneaker that improves overall support. It adds a supportive layer around the foot to help with pain relief and poor arch positioning.
Orthofeet Women’s Orthopedic Walking Shoes
This orthopedic shoe has a two-way lacing system, including adjustable straps or Velcro straps for a highly customized and flexible fit. Therefore, those that have difficulty tying their shoes can use the velcro straps for effortless adjustment.
The shoe’s interior includes soft fabric insulation and foam padding for added comfort. A spacious toe box at the front of the shoe also provides ample room for better relief.
Above the midsole is a premium ergonomic insert with air cushioning to support across the foot’s sole. The insert includes a thick contoured gel heel pad that fully adapts to your foot’s shape for enhanced stability.
The shoe base features a sturdy cushioned midsole, including air pockets within the heel. This design helps reduce shock and impact while walking. Orthofeet’s Verve Orthopedic Shoes are one of the best shoes for plantar fasciitis out there, especially if you’re a nurse, service worker, or experiencing an existing foot condition such as rheumatoid arthritis and nephropathy.
Calzuro Autoclavable Clog With Upper Ventilation (Unisex)
Calzuro Autoclavable Unisex Clog has been in the shoemaking industry since 1983, dedicating its work to affordable footwear designed with exceptional comfort for professionals who stand for extended periods.
CALZURO Unisex Autoclavable Clogs with Upper Ventilation
This shoe is a super-comfortable slip-on clog for nurses with plantar fasciitis. It is designed with an easy-wipe plastic substance that makes it flexible and easy to clean.
The shoe’s design makes it great due to its breathable upper that provides proper inflow and outflow of air, giving your feet refreshing and odor-free feels.
Calzuro Autoclavable Clog has ample interior capacity that can accommodate your orthopedic sock or liner. The clog’s excellent fit will certainly make buyers appreciate this shoe, especially its substantial arch support and excellent adhesion on any surface.
Comprehensive Guide to Buying Nursing Shoes for Plantar Fasciitis
The best way to prevent plantar fasciitis is by wearing proper shoes with a comfortable fit that supports your arch and heels from inflammations. Here are a few things to consider when considering shoes for plantar fasciitis.
Lightweight
As a nurse, shoes should not put extra pressure on your feet as it may result in poor work performance, weariness, and low productivity. Lightweight nursing shoes are the best option.
Slip Resistant
Shoes with good grip and are slip-resistant keep you safe from slipping in areas with liquids or spills, which is a common encounter for healthcare professionals.
Detachable Insoles
Insoles that come along with your shoes and some customized orthotics should be removable. They will eventually get worn out or need to be replaced if your condition changes. A shoe without this detachable feature is completely useless since you can’t change or detach the insoles for new ones.
Heel Support
The shoes should have heel support and be properly contoured to reduce pain and keep you comfortable. While wearing the shoes, the heel should not slide back and forth; hence it should be stable.
Superior Arch Support
If you opt to use orthotics or not, plantar fasciitis requires adequate arch support to reduce stress on the ligaments. If the ligaments are accentuated, they deteriorate and cause more pain.
Working in a bustling environment such as ERs where you have to respond immediately from time to time, shoes with padding at the front part is crucial.
Motion Control
Motion control in nursing shoes is essential, particularly if you have flat feet. Shoes with motion control are firm, durable, and prevent over-pronation. Elevating your shoes helps realign your foot with the rest of the body naturally and healthily.
Consider motion control shoes that are durable and comfortable since you’re walking all day with them; you want the shoes’ midsole to be absorbent. The best plantar fasciitis shoes are produced from rubber, leather, or combining both materials.
Reviews
Reviews are also vital to determine the quality of the product. Consumers usually express positive and negative feedback if they find the shoes useful or ineffective. Considering other people’s feedback may help you decide which type of shoes for plantar fasciitis, you will pick.
FAQ’s
What is Plantar Fasciitis?
If you are a nurse, you already know that plantar fasciitis is a foot condition where you have pain in the bottom of your foot and up into the heel of your foot resulting from irritation, inflammation, and swelling of your plantar fascia.
These are a few of the risk factors you should know:
- Age (nurses and older individuals over 40 are prone to this condition)
- Weight (excess weight places unnecessary pressure on your heels which points to tissue damage
- Unusual or abnormal walking habits
- Standing or walking regularly for hours (work-related or oppositely)
- Abnormal arches (flat or extremely high curves)
- Wearing worn-out footwear with poor support
- Frequently wearing high-heels
- Extreme sports (more prevalent among athletes)
- Particular exercises
Activities that generate intense impact directly on the feet
Aside from these, wearing the wrong shoes could contribute to your pain. Doctors advise their patients with plantar fasciitis to wear orthopedic insoles or specialized footwear.
What Are the Symptoms of Plantar Fasciitis?
Plantar fasciitis is a foot disorder commonly experienced by a nursing profession that shouldn’t be neglected. Working on a 12-hour shift with non-stop and continuous movement could aggravate the problem.
It’s important to talk to your primary care provider and ask for advice or footwear recommendations when you notice the first signs of this foot condition.
The typical symptoms include:
- Sharp pain at the back of your heel
- The pain intensifies after a hectic day
- Stiffness in the heel restricts your mobility
- Inflammation and pain
If the disorder goes untreated, it might develop into chronic heel pain that could damage tissues and cause difficulty in walking.
What are some other considerations in choosing the best shoes for plantar fasciitis?
Always consider your personal preferences and the shape of your feet when buying new shoes. Despite having the best shoes for plantar fasciitis, they might not suit you well. So it’s better to try the shoes on before you make the purchase (and make sure you’ve read the return policy on them)
Here are other few questions you should ask yourself before buying new shoes:
- How’s the fit?
- Are they comfortable when worn?
- Can they survive a 12-hour shift every day?
- Are they long-lasting and durable?
- Do they fit my style?
- Can they ease the pain?
If your answers to all of these are all “yes,” go on and make that purchase.
Summary
Before purchasing nursing shoes for plantar fasciitis, consider personal preference according to your specific needs and the benefits you’ll get from wearing them. A good pair of shoes can last you a long time depending on the quality and how you wear them.
Some people may neglect the importance of shoes in their daily lives while they perform at work. Not knowing, a great pair of nursing shoes lessen stress on your feet, keep you productive, and provide safety in the workplace.