Below, find the best shoes for nurses recommended by healthcare practitioners and vetted against podiatrist guidelines for comfort.
Why do nurses need special shoes?
This equates to a lot of stress through the joints in the feet.
Research backs this, too.
Another 2023 review showsprolonged walking and standing puts nurses at a higher risk of foot and ankle disorders3.
According to Sharkey, its critical to wear supportive shoes suited to your individual foot key in.
Poor shoe gear can lead to a whole host of pain and problems, she explains.
Versatile style
Nursing shoes need to be sturdy, but we know style is also important.
Theyre waterproof, easy to clean, and have slip-resistant soles to keep you grounded.
Plus, these shoes are super lightweight and made with partially recycled materials.
While most people say they run true to size, nurses with wide feet may prefer theStand+ Pro Line.
As a result, some reviewers complain about squeaking.
So far it has been nothing but a good experience with these shoes.
They are cleaned so easily and very easy to put on.
What nurses say:I am a nurse and on my feet all day, 10+ hrs.
These are the most comfortable sneakers, and support is great as well.
This Classic shoe was designed with input from healthcare providers who are on their feet all day.
Plus, every Clove purchase comes with two pens and a branded badge wheel.
What nurses say:I love my Cloves!
They keep me comfortable my entire 12 hour shift.
If you know you ll want more breathability, check out Cloves Aero model.
The Aeros are still fluid-resistant, with micro perforations to encourage a more breathable feel.
What nurses say:These are so comfortable and durable!
My feet don’t get overheated either.
The Bondi 8 is a lightweight, breathable shoe with neutral support and a memory foam ankle cradle.
Theyre approved by the American Podiatric Medical Association (APMA) and include recycled polyester throughout the upper.
What nurses say:I wear two pairs of Hoka sneakers.
Bondi 8 and Clifton 9.
However, the Bondi 8s have much more support in the heel and ankle, IMO.
I usually wear those when Im working three days in a row.
One consideration we should note is that these arent waterproof (although On does makewaterproof shoes!
), so they arent as easy to keep clean as other pairs on our list.
What nurses say:I am a nurse and decided to try these out.
These saved my feet.
I also have plantar fasciitis and these are the only shoes I have found to not cause pain.
- Nurse Ajay
Classicby Calzuro
For a classic clog-style shoe, try this slip-resistant pair from Calzuro.
While we didnt see many complaints about breathability, theyre also available in aperforated designfor added ventilation.
Calzuro offers the option to add a comfort insole and heel straps to keep your feet more secure.
What nurses say:I work long hours in the operating room.
Ive worn them for a week now and they are super supportive.
No back pain after a full 10 hours standing!
Consider the below factors when picking which shoes are right for you.
A good way to test this is to attempt to squeeze it between your thumb and pointer finger.
There should be little give with this test.
Additionally, knowing your foot punch in is key for finding the right pair.
Less shock equlas less pain, aching and fatigue!
Foot and leg aching, as well as fatigue are also signs of poor shoe gear.
When in doubt, it may be helpful to see your podiatrist.
If youre experiencing continued foot pain, you may benefit from custom orthotics.
FAQ
Why do nurses wear sneakers?
However, you may also see nurses in clogs or loafers.
At the end of the day, its a matter of personal preference.
What are the free shoes for healthcare workers?
Crocs runs an annual program that allows you to nominate a healthcare worker for free shoes.
However, the window for this program is closed this year.
They do, however, offer a 15% off discount for healthcare workers.
How often do nurses buy shoes?
What color shoes can nurses wear?
When it comes to color, there isnt one set dress code for nurses.
Check with your HR department to see if there are any guidelines around shoe color at work.
Luckily, theres no shortage of supportive shoes in a variety of styles for nurses to choose from.
