Top 10 Best Shoes For Nurses To Buy In 2021
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It is stating the obvious when I say that nurses usually work in extreme conditions. If you are a nurse, you already know that the long shifts and tedious tasks like lifting patients and providing bed bath assistance can be a huge strain on the feet, not to mention the rush to the hallway to get to the patient, when there is a code.
That’s why choosing the right pair of shoes could be crucial in preventing painful heels, legs, and back during and after duty.
However, choosing the right pair of shoes is extremely difficult and time-consuming because there are quite a few things you have to consider, including odor control, slip-resistance, stain-resistance, durability, stability, and comfort.
On top of that, each nurse has their own particular needs and health issues to consider including arch support, flat feet, wide feet and footbeds, back pain, foot pain, heel pain, and plantar fasciitis.
So purchasing a new pair of nursing shoes is indeed a pretty big decision and quite an investment.
That’s why we have compiled below this list of Ten Best Shoes For Nurses – so that YOU don’t have to do the work!
Now, the 10BestBuy Team prepares the 10 Best lists to satisfy the needs of all kinds of customers. So we have taken into consideration all kinds of shoes including clogs, sneakers, running shoes and tennis shoes.
We have also made sure to include shoes that are ideal for all genders, both at a premium and affordable prices and from the best brands in the world.
At the end of the review, you will also find a Buyer’s Guide prepared by our Chief Editor, which will guide you choose the most ideal pair of shoes for you, from our 10 Best lists.
10BestBuy.com selects
Dansko Women's Professional Clog
Professional Honey Distressed Leather Clog with wide heel strike for greater stability and anti-fatigue rocker bottom to add hours of comfortable support.
Dansko Men’s Xp 2.0 Clog for Nurses
HOKA ONE ONE Women's Bondi 7 Running Shoes For Nurses
Brooks Men’s Ghost 13 Running Shoe for Nurses
Dansko Women's Paisley Waterproof Outdoor Sneaker
Nike Air Vapormax Plus Men’s Sneakers Shoes for Nurses
ASICS Women's Gel-Challenger 12 Tennis Shoes for Nurses
Skechers Men’s Work Relaxed Fit Max Cushioning Elite Sr Filchner Sneaker for Nurses
Crocs Unisex-adult Bistro Slip-resistant Clog for Nurses
Merrell Work Women's Encore Slide Q2 Pro For Nurses
Our rating system
Our customer reviews are provided by consumers like you The star ratings are based on an overall rating of the brands displayed, as well as specific ratings for ease of use, purchase satisfaction, value for money and quality of service. Any customer can, and is encouraged to write a review of their experiences with these brands.
Top 10 Best Shoes For Nurses – Reviews and Buyer’s Guide
01.
Dansko Women's Professional Clog For Nurses
Professional Honey Distressed Leather Clog with wide heel strike for greater stability and anti-fatigue rocker bottom to add hours of comfortable support.
- Weight: 15.6 Ounces
- Heel To Toe Drop: 5.00 mm
- Heel Height: Medium (2” - 2.75”)
Dansko Shoes are certified with the APMA Seal of Acceptance, which is awarded to products of exceptional quality that promotes good foot health and is manufactured with the customer’s comfort and safety in mind. In fact, the Dansko Professional is the clog that launched a Comfort Revolution.
The Professional Honey Distressed Leather Clog from Dansko’s Stapled Clog collection is one of the best shoes for nurses available in the market in terms of comfort and style.
It is made from distressed leather and comes with a roomy reinforced toe box for protection which allows plenty of wiggle room for your toes. It also has an anatomically contoured polyurethane midsole and an inner frame that gives you maximum stability and support.
The Dansko Professional Honey Distressed Leather Clog also comes with a padded instep collar and a protective heel counter that allows the heel to move up and down freely while providing lateral stability.
The Polyurethane outsole with anti-fatigue rocker bottom propels the foot forward and provides shock absorption, adding hours of comfortable support throughout your day.
Besides, it also features odor control, so that you don’t have to worry about stinky feet after hours of work.
In essence, the Professional Honey Distressed Leather Clog ticks all the boxes. So if you have been looking for a high-quality nursing shoe, you need to look no further, the Dansko Professional Honey Distressed Leather Clog is the one for you!
- APMA certification
- Anti-fatigue
- Odor Control
- Takes time to get used to
02.
Dansko Men’s Xp 2.0 Clog for Nurses
Professional Black Waterproof Pull Up with Dansko Natural Arch Technology for exceptional support and comfort.
- Weight: 9.60 oz
- Heel To Toe Drop: 5.00 mm
- Cushion: Responsive
- Material: Leather
The Dansko XP 2.0 Waterproof Pull Up Clog is perfect for male nurses who work for long hours. This unique clog features new, lightweight construction and ergonomic design that incorporates a roomy toe box which allows plenty of wiggle room.
The lightweight EVA midsole reduces fatigue for everyday wear and provides stability and high shock absorption, while the anti-fatigue rocker bottom keeps you moving all day long.
The Dansko XP 2.0 Waterproof Pull Up Clog also comes with a removable, dual-density, polyurethane footbed that includes Dansko Natural Arch Technology – a TPU arch stabilizer for exceptional, all-day arch support, and memory foam cushioning. The high-abrasion TPU heel counter aids in the clog-walking motion, allowing your heel to move up and down freely.
The Dansko XP 2.0 Waterproof Pull Up Clogs are also waterproof, while the slip-resistant rubber outsole makes it suitable for dry, wet, and oily surfaces.
Its patent-pending stapled construction also makes it one of the most durable shoes you can get your hands on. And it also comes in color variations of black, brown, and navy.
Like all other Dansko Shoes, the Dansko XP 2.0 Waterproof Pull Up Clogs are also certified with the APMA Seal of Acceptance. Again this unique clog ticks all the right boxes, making it one of the best shoes for nurses available in the market today. So you need not think twice before purchasing the Dansko XP 2.0.
- Lightweight
- Anti-fatigue
- Waterproof
- Slip-resistant
- Takes time to get used to
03.
HOKA ONE ONE Women's Bondi 7 Running Shoes For Nurses
Cushioned Running shoe with signature Meta-Rocker Technology that offers a smooth, balanced ride.
- Weight: 8.90 Ounces
- Heel To Toe Drop: 4.00 mm
- Cushion: Plush
- Neutral Stability
Hoka One One is one of the best manufacturers of running shoes. Although it is designed for running, the superior comfort and traction make it perfectly suitable for working nurses.
Among the large collection of shoes offered by Hoka One One, the Bondi 7 stands out. The most cushioned shoe in HOKA’s road-shoe collection, it delivers a smooth, balanced ride over any distance. It is perfect for nurses who work long hours running around as it allows maximum flexibility.
The Hoka One One Bondi 7 Running Shoe is also one of the best shoes for nurses in terms of innovation. Engineered with a full-length compression-molded EVA midsole, breathable mesh upper, and signature Meta-Rocker technology, it provides a unique ride – one designed to be smooth, soft, and efficient.
It is also updated with a supremely plush collar made from ultra-soft memory foam designed to accommodate a narrower heel. The collar conforms to a wide variety of angles and protects your Achilles in cushy comfort.
The rubber outsole makes the Hoka One One Bondi 7 Running Shoe lightweight and maximizes durability. The internal heel counter provides a supportive, locked-in fit midsole, while the beveled heel design offers a smooth transition and increased durability.
The Hoka One One Bondi 7 Running Shoe is APMA certified and is also available in a men’s version. So if you are looking for an alternative for a clog but want the same level of comfort, the Bondi 7 is an excellent choice.
- Simplified and Stripped back upper
- Smooth Ride
- Lightweight Support
- Stability
- Needs extra care while cleaning
04.
Brooks Men’s Ghost 13 Running Shoe for Nurses
Plush fit running shoe with DNA LOFT cushioning that extends throughout the midsole for a smooth transition from heel to toe.
- Weight: 10.1 Ounces
- Midsole Drop: 12 mm
- Arch: Medium, High
- Support: Neutral
The Brooks Ghost 13 Running shoe is one of the best shoes for nurses in terms of smoothness and comfort. It offers improved transitions for zero distractions so that you can focus more on your work. The BioMoGo DNA and DNA LOFT cushioning of the Ghost 13 work together to provide just the right softness underfoot without losing responsiveness and durability.
Unlike the previous version of the shoes, the super-soft DNA LOFT of the Brooks Ghost 13 Running shoe now extends beyond the heel, all the way to the forefoot to allow an easy transition from landing to toe-off.
The Brooks Ghost 13 Running shoe is also lightweight, making it perfect for long working hours. The newly engineered mesh and 3D Fit Print with strategically placed stretch and structure and Air Mesh upper hugs the foot perfectly for a secure, breathable fit.
The Brooks Ghost 13 Running shoe also comes with a unique Segmented Crash Pad – an integrated system of shock absorbers – which cushions every step and stride for smooth heel-to-toe transitions, no matter how your foot lands.
Brooks Ghost 13 Running Shoe is APMA certified and is also available in a women’s version. It is a good alternative for male nurses who do not prefer clogs and is perfect for those who are looking for a versatile pair that can also be worn outside work.
- Lightweight
- APMA Certified
- Breathable fit
- Shock absorbers
- Needs extra care while cleaning
05.
Dansko Women's Paisley Waterproof Outdoor Sneaker
Sneakers with a breathable, waterproof membrane, moisture management, odor control, and a triple-density footbed for underfoot support.
- Weight: 13.44 Ounces
- Heel To Toe Drop: 5.00 mm
- Heel Height: Low (1” - 1.75”)
- Material: Suede
The Dansko Paisley Sneaker, from Dansko’s Portland collection, is a sport-inspired walking shoe that is packed with performance features and accommodates most standard and custom orthotics. It features a breathable waterproof membrane and DuPont Sorona fiber for moisture management.
Dansko Paisley Sneakers comes with waterproof leather uppers and 3M Scotchgard protector for stain resistance on select uppers, making it one of the best shoes for nurses in terms of durability. Additionally, the durable Vibram rubber outsole that is slip-resistant makes it suitable for use on wet or dry surfaces. The CleansportNXT technology for odor control supports long hours of work without worry of feet that stink.
The Dansko Paisley Sneaker offers underfoot support with its removable, triple-density footbed embedded with Dansko Natural Arch Technology for day-long comfort. It also comes with a built-in shank for extra stability and support. Dansko’s Paisley sneaker collection has been awarded the American Podiatric Seal of Acceptance for promoting good foot health.
It is also available in six color variants. And although Dansko is known for clogs, the Dansko Paisley Waterproof sneaker is a perfect alternative for working nurses, as it ticks all the right boxes. You wouldn’t possibly be able to find a working shoe that offers more features than the Dansko Paisley Waterproof sneaker.
- Waterproof
- APMA Seal of Acceptance
- Slip Resistant
- Odor Control
- Needs extra care while cleaning
06.
Nike Air Vapormax Plus Men’s Sneakers Shoes for Nurses
Black Sneakers with floating cage, lightweight cushioning, and revolutionary VaporMax Air Technology to ramp up comfort and create a modern look.
- Weight: 35.2 Ounces
- Heel To Toe Drop: 5.00 mm
- Cushion: Responsive
- Material:
The Nike Air VaporMax Plus is one of the best shoes for nurses in terms of style and comfort. It is perfect for you if you are a nurse with a taste for retro fashion. The Air VaporMax Plus mimics the retro style of the 1998 Air Max Plus with its floating cage, padded upper, and heel logo and adds the revolutionary VaporMax Air technology cushioning to ramp up comfort while creating a modern look.
Originally designed for performance running, the VaporMax Air technology provides lightweight cushioning that lasts and is perfectly suitable for working nurses. With the focus on using air efficiently, these shoes create a springy bounce with each step.
The groundbreaking cushioning technology of the Nike Air VaporMax Plus with the individual pods of air, gives you cushioning only where you need it and keeps the shoe incredibly flexible and lightweight. The rubber pods in high-wear areas add traction and durability.
The cushions fabric and the TPU details of the Nike Air VaporMax Plus provide comfort and durability. The prominent TPU arch draws inspiration from a whale’s tails and adds structure, while the iconic TPU fingers nod the original’s lines that were inspired by palm trees and ocean waves.
So if you are someone who doesn’t want to compromise on style for comfort, then the Nike Air VaporMax Plus is the perfect choice for you.
- Lightweight
- Flexibility
- Durability
- Heritage style
- On the expensive side
07.
ASICS Women's Gel-Challenger 12 Tennis Shoes for Nurses
High-performance tennis shoes with GEL technology for increased stability and flexibility.
- Weight: 30.4 Ounces
- Synthetic and Mesh upper
- Midsole Material: Solyte (lighter than EVA and SpEVA)
- Sole Material: Rubber
ASICS has been developing footwear and apparel for more than 50 years. Their innovative approach is based on scientific research and collaboration with athletes.
So with every pair of ASICS footwear you buy, you can be sure that a lot of research has gone behind it. And that is exactly what a nurse needs to make sure that their shoes give them maximum comfort.
Designed for recreational players, the Asics GEL-CHALLENGER 12 tennis shoe features under-laying support provided by the GEL technology in the fore and rearfoot, placed to increase stability when making quick, lateral movements.
This makes it perfectly suitable for working nurses while working busy and extended shifts.
The SOLYTE midsole of the Asics GEL-CHALLENGER 12 tennis shoe, a much lighter weight midsole compound than standard EVA and SpEVA midsoles, provides lightweight cushioning with excellent bounce-back. In addition, the ASICS High Abrasion Rubber (AHARPLUS) outsole reduces the effects of wear, giving the shoes exceptional durability.
The Asics GEL-CHALLENGER 12 tennis shoe also comes with TRUSSTIC technology that reduces the weight of the sole unit while retaining the structural integrity of the shoe, thus increasing grip and traction to prevent twisting and injury as you move.
The removable OrthoLite sock liner of the shoe provides added rebound and effective moisture management. All these qualities make the Asics GEL-CHALLENGER 12 one of the best shoe nurses.
- Lightweight
- Moisture Management
- Durability
- Lesser Specifications
08.
Skechers Men’s Work Relaxed Fit Max Cushioning Elite Sr Filchner Sneaker for Nurses
Slip-resistant work sneakers with max cushioning for exceptional comfort and safety.
- Weight: 46.08 ounces
- Heel Height: 2 inches
- Cushion: High
- Material: Leather upper
Skechers is a trusted name when it comes to affordable footwear. Unlike other premium brands, they offer their products at much lower prices than their competitors, which is why they are an ever-growing brand with an ever-widening reach all over the globe.
Offering comfort and care for its customers is at the core of its philosophy.
The Max Cushioning collection of footwear offers the best cushioning than most other shoes available in the market today. When it comes to nursing shoes, the Skechers Work Relaxed Fit Max Cushioning Elite SR – Filchner shoe from the collection, will give you all the cushioning you need for a full day of supported comfort and safety.
The Skechers Work Relaxed Fit Max Cushioning Elite SR Filchner shoe comes with a unique Air Cooled Memory Foam removable insole that provides additional cooling, which could be crucial during long working hours.
In addition, the Max Cushioning midsole provides exceptional comfort and support, making it ideal for standing and walking for extended periods of time.
The Skechers Work Relaxed Fit Max Cushioning Elite SR Filchner shoe also has a slip-resistant traction outsole with oil-resistance and synthetic overlays at toe, heel, and instep for added durability.
Besides the smooth, durable upper leather can be easily wiped down in case of spills. It is also available in medium and wide width options making it an easy choice for nurses with all kinds of feet.
- Maximum Cushioning
- Affordable Price
- Slip resistance
- Durability
- Lace-up front
09.
Crocs Unisex-adult Bistro Slip-resistant Clog for Nurses
Lightweight Unisex clog shoes with slip-resistant tread, foam cushioning allowing 360-degree comfort.
- Weight: 12 Ounces
- ASTM F2913-11 tested
- CE Certified
- Material: 100% synthetic
The Crocs Bistro Clog is one of the best shoes for nurses available in the market today when it comes to affordability. Designed with hospitality and healthcare workers in mind, the Crocs Bistro Clog is supportive enough to get you through even the longest shifts.
Its Legendary Croslite foam cushioning offers all-day comfort and support, while its generous, roomy fit offers enough wiggle room for your toes.
The Crocs Lock technology helps for a slip-resistant tread, making it suitable for all sorts of surfaces, while the enclosed toe design and thicker metatarsal area help protect your foot from spills. The contoured footbed adds to the comfort. The Iconic Crocs Comfort technology makes the Crocs Bistro Clog lightweight and flexible allowing for 360-degree comfort.
The fully molded design of the Crocs Bistro Clog makes it exceptionally durable and also easy to clean with just soap and water.
The Crocs Bistro Clog is perfect for nurses of all genders and comes in a variety of color options to satisfy a wired array of styles. The Crocs Bistro Clog is also ASTM tested, CE Certified, and meets or exceeds EN ISO 2034:2012, OB, SRC standards for slip-resistance.
So if you are looking for an affordable shoe that doesn’t compromise on quality, the Crocs Bistro Clog is your best bet.
- Affordable Price
- Lightweight
- Slip Resistant
- Flexible & Durable
- Flexible sole
10.
Merrell Work Women's Encore Slide Q2 Pro For Nurses
Affordable slip-resistant slip-on style work shoes from the Merrell work collection with a full-grain leather upper and a round toe.
- Weight: 16 ounces
- Heel Height: 1.5 inches
- Breathable Mesh Lining
- Sole Material: Rubber
The Merrell Encore Slide Q2 Pro will make any nurse’s life easier and comfier with its roomy fit and reliable support. Offering the same out-of-the-box comfort from the original Encore Collection, it is one of the best shoes for nurses in terms of affordability.
The Merrell Encore Slide Q2 Pro with its Q FORM 2 dual-density midsole with heel-centering technology provides gender-engineered alignment and comfort. The Air Cushion+ air-ride system with strategically placed lungs offer the ultimate lightweight cushion for additional heel to toe comfort. In terms of arch support, the Merrell Encore Slide Q2 Pro is one of the best in the market.
The Merrell M Select FIT.TRI blended EVA contoured footbed allows the shoe to support all three arches of the foot. The air cushion in the heel absorbs shock and adds stability.
The Merrell Encore Slide Q2 Pro is also slip-resistant. The Merrell M Select Pro Grip outsole with increased surface contact gives the shoe a far superior grip.
It also comes with a waterproof full-grain leather upper and an oil and slip-resistant rubber outsole that is Mark II tested. The Merrell M Select GRIP rubber tunes each outsole with durable traction that grips when and where you need it.
Additionally, the molded nylon arch shank offers midfoot support and flexibility. It also comes with a breathable mesh lining for added comfort. It is also easy to wipe down and clean making it ideal for healthcare professionals. So if you are looking for a cheaper alternative nursing shoe from a trusted manufacturer, you don’t need to look any further.
- Affordable
- Arch support
- Slip-resistant
- Waterproof
- Rubber sole
Why Finding the Right Pair of Nurse’s Shoes Is Important?
Choosing the right kind of shoe can make a huge difference in the daily stressful working life of a nurse. At the same time, the wrong shoe can create a lot of problems and add to the stress.
Nurses spend their entire day running, standing, or moving patients, which affects the entire body, but especially the heel, feet, knees, and back. Anything that can help relieve the stress is considered a relief.
Here’s what the right shoe can do:
- Help maintain correct posture to help prevent back problems
- Improves speed and comfort
- Slip-resistance prevent accident
- Arch supports prevent aching feet
- Breathability prevents foul odor
Here’s what the wrong shoe can do:
- Can get hot and uncomfortable towards the end of the day
- Painful feet and toes
- Blisters that occur as a result of friction
- Knee, hip, and back pain
- Foul odor after a long shift
How to Choose the Right Shoes for Nurses
Studies show that the average nurse working a ten-hour shift walks nearly three-and-a-half miles a day on average. As such, there are few things you need to consider before choosing a pair of nursing shoes that can stand the test.
Factors to Consider
Type of Shoe
Clogs are by far the most popular type of shoes as they are designed for comfort. The front of the shoe is closed and protects you from fluid spills, while the back remains open so that it can double up as a slip-on. This flexibility makes it of great use for nurses.
Running shoes, sneakers, and tennis shoes are ideal for fast-paced environments and high-stress areas like the Emergency Room (ER) and the Intensive Care Units (ICUs) where nurses are always on the go. Built for fast movement these shoes provide good traction and stability.
Slip-on shoes or slippers are particularly useful in operating rooms, where nurses have to make quick changes into sterile footwear. However, slip-ons should still be slip-resistant and have closed toes and low heels, if they are to be used by nurses.
Brand & Price
There are many brands selling shoes in the market today. The shoes by the best brands are manufactured after much scientific research and using the most innovative technology, thus ensuring quality and comfort.
Shoes manufactured by lesser-known brands could possibly be more harmful than good as they are manufactured without much technical knowledge.
However, it is true that shoes manufactured by the best brands do come at a premium price. But since it is your health that is on the line, it is always best to choose the best brands if you can afford it.
If you cannot you can still find cheaper ones that offer good quality if you know where to look. The Crocs Unisex-adult Bistro Slip-resistant Clog and the Merrell Women’s Encore Slide Q2 Pro Shoes For Nurses are good examples.
Durability
Durability is an important factor to consider since being a nurse involves a lot of footwork. Nurses working a standard 40-hour week, usually have to replace shoes twice a year, or after every 500 miles of walking.
Those on the heavier side or those with injuries or other issues may have to change shoes even more often. This could be quite hard on the budget. As such, shoes that are durable will save you from burning a hole in the market.
Size
It goes without saying that size is probably one of the most important things an individual needs to consider when purchasing a shoe. However, size doesn’t only mean the length of your feet.
Each person’s feet are different – some have wide feet, some have narrow feet, others have flat feet and the list goes on. As such getting a shoe that hugs you like a glove is quite difficult.
But there are a variety of shoes in the market to suit every individual’s specific needs. Besides, modern shoe manufacturing technology has also developed enough to incorporate a single design that fits all.
For example, the Brooks Ghost 13 Running shoe with its newly engineered mesh, 3D Fit Print, and Air Mesh upper that hugs the foot perfectly for a secure, breathable fit.
Features To Look For
Comfort & Style
Comfort is the most important factor when getting yourself a new shoe. Comfort should never be forsaken for style. An average looking shoe that is better any day than a stylish shoe that is difficult to wear.
As such, the insole of the shoe should be soft and fit your feet perfectly. Other comfort features like extra padding in pressure pints and gel cushions can also be helpful.
That being said, there are many shoes available in the market today that offer both style and comfort. So why compromise when you can have the best of both worlds? The Dansko Honey Distressed Leather Clog and the Nike Air VaporMax Plus are perfect examples of shoes that offer both comfort and style.
Arch Support
One of the most important factors to consider when purchasing a nursing shoe is arch support. Arch supports are essentially shock absorbers for your feet.
While built-in arch support may feel unnecessary and bulky, it is a critical feature that prevents issues like ankle sprains, heel spurs, and plantar fasciitis.
It supports the arch under your feet and helps to eliminate or diminish the feeling of pain that is caused by common foot problems by distributing pressure, providing stability and balance.
A lot of nurses have low arches with feet that roll when they walk. “Motion control” shoes are best for nurses with arch issues, while “stability” shoes are best for nurses with arches of normal height.
Nurses with high arches, on the other hand, should consider shoes designed with extra cushioning. The Dansko XP 2.0 Waterproof Pull Up Clog and the Dansko Paisley Sneakers offer exceptional arch support.
Anti-Fatigue
The design of your shoe has a lot to do with how fatigued you are at the end of your working day. Technology has developed so much today that you can actually map out how much your shoe affects your performance.
This research has helped improve design to get the best output. That is why a lot of shoes available in the market today advertise that they have anti-fatigue properties.
So, a shoe with an ergonomic design can do wonders for your health, leaving you less fatigued and able to do your job more efficiently.
The design of your shoe has a lot to do with how fatigued you are at the end of your working day. Technology has developed so much today that you can actually map out how much your shoe affects your performance.
This research has helped improve design to get the best output. That is why a lot of shoes available in the market today advertise that they have anti-fatigue properties.
So, a shoe with an ergonomic design can do wonders for your health, leaving you less fatigued and able to do your job more efficiently.
The Dansko Professional Honey Distressed Leather Clog, the Dansko XP 2.0 Waterproof Pull Up Clog are shoes that incorporate unique anti-fatigue technologies.
Light-Weight
Ideally, nursing shoes should be lightweight so that they do not become a burden to wear during busy and extended shifts.
A lot of health problems associated with stress and fatigue from work, including muscle cramps and back pain are the result of shoes that are heavy. Even a shoe that is moderately heavy in normal situations will begin to feel quite heavy during the far end of long shifts.
On the other hand, lightweight shoes not only reduce such problems but also allow flexibility and speed.
The Asics GEL-CHALLENGER 12 tennis shoe and the Brooks Ghost 13 Running shoe are two good examples of lightweight shoes.
Slip-Prevention
Spills are quite common on hospital floors. Nurses are hence more prone to slip, trip, and fall injuries compared to workers in other industries. As such a shoe that provides slip resistance can be a real lifesaver. Different brands use different technologies for slip-resistance.
The Dansko XP 2.0 Waterproof Pull Up Clog, the Dansko Paisley Sneakers and the Crocs Unisex-adult Bistro Slip-resistant Clog all either meet or exceed standards for slip resistance.
Odor-Control
No one likes feet that stink. However, it is a misconception that people’s feet stink due to poor hygiene. Rather, the kind of shoe a person wears has to do more with it.
If the shoe you wear does not have a design that incorporates odor-control, it is inevitable that your feet will stink at the end of a long working day, even if you have good hygiene.
There are quite a few shoes that incorporate breathable mesh and unique odor control technology to overcome this problem. The Dansko Professional Honey Distressed Leather Clog, the Dansko XP 2.0 Waterproof Pull Up Clog, and the Dansko Paisley Sneakers are all known for odor control.
Rocker-Bottom
No one likes feet that stink. However, it is a misconception that people’s feet stink due to poor hygiene. Rather, the kind of shoe a person wears has to do more with it.
If the shoe you wear does not have a design that incorporates odor-control, it is inevitable that your feet will stink at the end of a long working day, even if you have good hygiene.
There are quite a few shoes that incorporate breathable mesh and unique odor control technology to overcome this problem. The Dansko Professional Honey Distressed Leather Clog, the Dansko XP 2.0 Waterproof Pull Up Clog, and the Dansko Paisley Sneakers are all known for odor control.
Easy To Clean
It is inevitable that your shoes will get dirty during a long shift because you never know what you are going to walk into – it could be spilled water, blood, urine, vomit, or other body fluids. As such a shoe that is stain-resistant, does not allow spills to soak through and is easy to clean is a great relief.
Shoes made of materials like leather, synthetic leather, or rubber can be easily wiped down. The Crocs Unisex-adult Bistro Slip-resistant Clog is a good example of an easy-to-clean shoe. This shoe can be easily cleaned with just soap and water due to its unique fully molded design and manufacturing material.
Wide Toe Box
It is also important to choose a shoe with a wide toe box, especially if you have wide feet so that it doesn’t push against your toes. This will also help those with existing conditions like hammertoe and bunions.
The Dansko Professional Honey Distressed Leather Clog, Hoka One One Bondi 7 Running Shoe, and Crocs Unisex-adult Bistro Slip-resistant Clog all offer wide toe boxes, while the Skechers Work Relaxed Fit Max Cushioning Elite SR Filchner shoe is available in both medium and wide size options.
Stability & Posture Support
Bad posture while either sitting or standing, can cause back pain. A nurse’s job involves a lot of standing. In fact, quite rarely does a nurse get time to rest.
The kind of shoe you wear can significantly affect your posture by supporting bad posture habits. That is why often you find that the sole of certain shoes wears on only one side. As such, shoes with a durable sole will help improve posture.
Frequently Asked Questions
The lifespan of a shoe depends on many factors. One of them is the quality of the shoe itself. Ideally you will need a durable shoe that will last long. But no matter how durable your shoes are, you will need to replace them at some point. A nurse’s job involves a lot of sitting and standing. As such, research suggests that nurses should replace their shoes every 350-500 miles. In other words, nurses should replace their shoes every six or seven months or twice every year.
Clogs are some of the most comfortable shoes available in the market. They come with a wide toe-box that allows much wiggle room for your toes. It is also one of the most durable shoes since it is made of tough material. Besides, it is convenient to use and of late, it has become a fashion statement too. These are some of the reasons why nurses seem to prefer clogs.
The straight answer is no. Although shoes are primarily made for comfort, there are many shoes available in the market today that focus on style over comfort. There are also shoes that are less durable that are made for casual use. These kinds of shoes are not suitable for nurses. Ideally, nurses need shoes that offer comfort over any other factor. And since a nurse’s life involves a lot of running and standing, a nurse’s shoe needs to be durable too. Besides these, a shoe that offers additional features like slip-resistance, odor-control, rocker bottoms and is lightweight would be perfect.
Our Final Verdict
All these shoes made it to our final 10 Best List only after thorough checks, strict testing, and after hours of research into customer reviews and testimonials.
As such, any one of the shoes in the list will offer relief to the working life of nurses, be it the pricey and rare Nike Air VaporMax Plus or the cheap and popular Crocs Unisex-adult Bistro Slip-resistant Clog.
However, what matters ultimately though is which shoe suits your needs the best. Our team has done the hard part of narrowing it down to the best of the best.
So all you have left to do is go through our Buyer’s Guide and choose the one that suits you most among these ten best shoes for nurses!