Few jobs require as much time on your feet as nursing and healthcare work. And that makes it extra important to wear the right shoes — not only for comfort, but also for safety, mobility, and keeping your energy up during the day. Here's why shoes matter, and our picks for the best shoes for nurses and clinicians.
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Why Shoes Matter for Nurses & Healthcare Workers
Why is it so important to have good shoes? Whether you work in a fast-paced acute care department or a nine-to-five job in a school or rehab facility, chances are good that you’re on your feet most of the day. And that takes a toll!
In addition to helping you feel fresh and preventing foot pain (and maybe back pain, too), good shoes give you better comfort and support during your workday. And as simple as that may sound, it's also absolutely essential for delivering the highest-quality care, and for being your best, happiest you.
How to Choose the Best Shoes for Your Healthcare Job
There are quite a few shoes made specifically for nurses and clinicians, like STAND+ or Clove. On top of that, tons of shoes designed for running, walking, working, or just plain everyday use also make great shoes for nurses and healthcare professionals.
With so many options, it can be hard to know what's right for you. Experts recommend looking at 7 key factors: fit, traction, cushioning, arch support, durability, material, and price. Here's a closer look at each, along with recommendations for the best shoes in each category and our overall pick.
8 Best Shoes for Nurses & Healthcare Professionals
Category #1: Fit
First and foremost, your shoes must fit well. Loose shoes can quickly lead to foot pain, and cause slips and falls, too. And shoes that are too tight aren't just uncomfortable but can also cause sores and blisters that make every step painful.
- Pro Tip: Of course, everyone's feet are unique in their size and shape. If you're not sure of yours, visit a hands-on shoe store or, even better, a podiatrist.
- OUR PICK: Designed for wide feet — but with sizing options for everyone else, too — the Gales Pro Line from STAND+ also conform to the shape of your feet to help ensure a snug fit. Plus, they're comfy, fluid resistant, and easy to clean.
Category #2: Traction
Non-slip shoes are essential in any medical environment, where slippery floors can happen at any moment. And, while lots of shoes are labeled as slip-resistant, some actually go above and beyond to offer high-traction rubber soles that really grip those floors — an essential for any fast-paced workplace.
- OUR PICK: Designed for nurses and clinicians, the FIGS | New Balance X-Racer Utility has a studded rubber outsole for one of the best traction we've seen in a nursing shoe. It's also very well cushioned and offers a couple of extra pockets.
Category #3: Cushioning
In general, the more cushioning the better. Thicker soles usually provide better support and shock absorption, helping you steer clear of aching feet or possibly even plantar fasciitis. But those soles should also be firm and flexible, not hard or stiff — memory foam or other specially designed cushions are usually ideal.
- Pro Tip: Many nurses use rockers and meta-rockers, shoes with thick, rounded soles that may offer better balance, smoother motion, and less foot pain.
- OUR PICK: When it comes to cushioning, it's hard to beat Hoka and their massive, "cloud-like" soles. And the Hoka Bondi SR is designed just for nurses, offering more traction, better breathability, and easy-to-clean material.
Category #4: Arch Support
Just like it sounds, arch support is how well a shoe supports the arch of your foot. Again, this is a feature that's going to depend on your body's unique shape. But taking the time to get it right is worth the reward, as proper arch support leads to better balance and less foot pain (and maybe back pain, too).
- Pro Tip: Arch support insoles can help improve or supercharge your shoe's arch support — but don't overdo it! Consult a podiatrist to find your best solution.
- Our Pick: On Cloud X 4 workout shoes focus on stability and support, helping keep your feet healthy and your body evenly supported while you're at work. They're also breathable with lots of plush cushioning for extra comfort.
Category #5: Durability
Unfortunately, even the best shoes have to be replaced at least once a year if you wear them every day. As soles wear out, so do their ability to absorb shocks and cushion your feet, raising your risk of pain, sore muscles or tendons, sprains, strains, and even plantar fasciitis. In other words, the longer they last, the better.
- Pro Tip: Buy multiple shoes and rotate your use of them to improve durability. And after you read this list, you'll have a few new options to try out!
- OUR PICK: Available in both women's and men's sizes, famously durable Birkenstock's Kay SL also has great traction and a swivel backstrap so you can customize how it fits during different parts of your workday.
Category #6: Material
Beyond comfort and support, many nurses and clinicians prefer shoes that are resistant to fluids, easy to clean, and made of antimicrobial materials. Depending on your setting, you may also want footwear that's extra warm or breathable.
- OUR PICK: The Üni Blackout Mid is designed to be stain- and worry-free, as well as easy to clean, scuff-resistant, and ultra-lightweight, all in one comfy package. It's also highly breathable and features a memory foam ankle guard.
Category #7: Price
The good news is that there are so many amazing shoes available today. The not-so-great news is that the best shoes for nursing and healthcare professionals are usually some of the most expensive options, usually around $150 a pair or more. And given how often they have to be replaced, that cost can add up.
- Pro Tip: Never forget that, as a nurse or clinician, you're eligible for deep discounts on shoes (and a bunch of other stuff), including our pick for this category, Crocs. You can see a list of discounts for healthcare workers here.
- OUR PICK: Crocs are back, baby! They're lightweight, easy to clean, and, in the opinion of many Americans and plenty of nurses, super comfy. They also offer a whole range of options for nurses and clinicians in the $40-$60 range.
Category #8: Overall
Let's be honest — if you invest in any of the shoes listed above, you're going to be pretty happy with the results. Most of the best shoes for nurses and healthcare professionals offer some combo of durability, support, and slip resistance.
- OUR PICK: That being said, the overall best shoe for nurses and clinicians is the one that's designed specifically for orthopedic recovery. The OOFOS OOmy Stride is designed for maximum mobility and impact protection, with pillowed heel cushions and high traction.
Foot Health Goes Beyond Great Shoes
Don’t forget the socks! Compression socks are often recommended as a way to get the most benefits from your shoes. They can also help reduce fatigue all on their own by boosting circulation and warmth.
If you suffer from foot pain or fatigue, you might also consider a foot spa or massager for optimal foot health. You can see our recommendations for the best massagers, socks, and lots more in our nursing and health professional gift guide.
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