Nurses, Don’t Ignore These Signs Your Footwear Needs An Upgrade (+ Our Top Picks)

Routines|medically reviewed The 9 Best Shoes For Nurses, Per Podiatrist GuidelinesAuthor: Jamey Powell Medical reviewer: Robert Kornfeld, DPMJuly 22, 2023Contributing writerBy Jamey PowellContributing writerJamey Powell is a writer and editor living in Brooklyn, NY. Previously the senior market editor at Healthline.com, she has years of experience scouring endless product reviews and testing out the latest and greatest products in the sleep, fitness, and nutrition markets.Medical review byRobert Kornfeld, DPMHolistic PodiatristRobert Kornfeld, DPM is a holistic podiatrist, dedicated to treating chronic foot and ankle pain at its source.What type of shoes should nurses wear?The best shoes for nursesHow we pickedHow to chooseSigns you're not wearing the right shoesFAQSummaryImage by mbg creativeJuly 22, 2023Our editors have independently chosen the products listed on this page. If you purchase something mentioned in this article, we may earn a small commission.The best shoes for nurses of 2023:

• Best sustainable: Allbirds Tree Runner
• Best slip-resistant: Gales Frontline
• Best for long shifts: Clove Classic
• Best lightweight: Clove Aero
• Best for cushion: Hoka Bondi 8
• Best for plantar fasciitis: On Cloudnova
• Best for matching your scrubs: FIGS | New Balance XC72
• Best for men: Nike Air Monarch
• Best clogs: Calzuro Classic

There’s no debate: Nursing is a seriously physically (and mentally) demanding job. The best shoes for nurses help keep you supported during the extended periods of standing the career entails.

Because healthcare workers spend countless hours taking care of others, there’s no time for foot pain to slow them down. These shoes meet podiatrist guidelines and even come highly recommended from real nurse practitioners.

Why is finding the right shoes important for nurses?

“The average person walks anywhere between 1.5 to two miles per day,” says Austin-based podiatrist, Anne Sharkey, DPM. For healthcare workers, who spend most of their days on the move, that number can get much higher.

“With each step, the heel strikes the ground, and weight bearing forces are transmitted through the entire foot. This equates to a lot of stress through the joints in the feet.”

Research backs this, too. One recent review from 2023 found that nurses are at high risk of developing chronic foot pain1 due to the physical demand of the job.

Another 2023 review shows prolonged walking and standing puts nurses at a higher risk of foot and ankle disorders2.

According to Sharkey, it’s critical to wear supportive shoes suited to your individual foot type. “Poor shoe gear can lead to a whole host of pain and problems,” she explains. If not addressed, this pain can start at the foot and move its way up to your knees, hips, and back.

Our picks for the best shoes for nurses of 2023:

Best sustainable: Allbirds Tree Runner

:view on Allbirds | $105

Pros:

• Made with sustainable materials
• Highly rated for comfort
• Machine washable

Cons:

• Whole sizes only
• May be too flexible for some

Colorways:

17

Size run:

5-11

Returns:

30 days

If eco-friendly initiatives and materials are important to you, check out Allbirds, one of the most sustainable shoe brands around. The Tree Runners include materials such as eucalyptus-derived Tencel, laces derived from recycled water bottles, and foams made from sugarcane and castor bean oil.

These shoes are a hit with nurses for their cushy comfort, breathable upper, and easy machine wash-friendly design.

On the con side, they’re rather flexible, so they might not work for folks who need more support. Plus, they’re only available in whole sizes, so if you’re in between Allbirds advises that you size up.

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. Highly recommend” - Nurse Lori

If eco-friendly initiatives and materials are important to you, check out Allbirds, one of the most sustainable shoe brands around. The Tree Runners include materials such as eucalyptus-derived Tencel, laces derived from recycled water bottles, and foams made from sugarcane and castor bean oil.

Read full review

Best slip-resistant: Gales Frontline

:view on Gales | $90

Pros:

• Waterproof & easy to clean
• Slip-resistant design
• Available in an extensive size run

Cons:

• Material can feel a bit heavy
• Several reviewers say they’re squeaky

Colorways:

8

Size run:

5-17Half sizes available

Returns:

30 days

If you’re looking for a shoe that can stand up to spills and stains, these deliver. They’re 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 the Gales Pro Line.

While they’re a hit with nurses for their lightweight, waterproof design, one tradeoff is that the shoes can trap heat and moisture if your feet tend to run hot. As a result, some reviewers complain about squeaking.

What nurses say: “I really needed a shoe that was comfortable but was also non-slip and water proof for giving showers and not slipping on the floors I just mopped. So far it has been nothing but a good experience with these shoes. They are cleaned so easily and very easy to put on.” -Nurse Michaela

If you’re looking for a shoe that can stand up to spills and stains, these deliver. They’re waterproof, easy to clean, and have slip-resistant soles to keep you grounded.

Read full review

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Best overall: Clove Classic

:view on Clove | $139

Pros:

• Fluid-resistant material
• Easy slip-on design
• Lots of color options

Cons:

• No wide or narrow sizes available
• Not as breathable as Aero model

Colorways:

19

Size run:

5-12.5Half sizes available

Returns:

30 days

Since its launch in 2018, Clove has been an extremely popular pick with nurses across the country. This Classic shoe was designed with input from healthcare providers who are on their feet all day.

The outer material is fluid-resistant, the shoes are well-cushioned with solid arch support, and the elastic tie system means you never have to worry about loose laces.

Nurses love that these shoes are available in many fun colors, are easy to keep clean (you can wipe them down easily and even throw the insoles in the wash). 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. The best part about them is that they are easy to keep clean and wipe off because, let’s be honest, as a nurse many undesirable fluids get on them. ” — Nurse Lindsey

Since its launch in 2018, Clove has been an extremely popular pick with nurses across the country. This Classic shoe was designed with input from healthcare providers who are on their feet all day.

Read full review

Best lightweight: Clove Aero

:view on Clove | $139

Pros:

• Light & breathable materials
• Still fluid resistant & easy to clean
• Easy slip-on design

Cons:

• Less color options than Classic model
• May run a half size small for some

Colorways:

5

Size run:

5-12.5Half sizes available

Returns:

30 days (customer covers cost of shipping)

While the Clove Classic shoe benefits from being fluid-resistant, the durable and wipeable material can trap heat more easily. If you know you’ll want more breathability, check out Clove’s Aero model.

The Aeros are still fluid-resistant, with micro perforations to encourage a more breathable feel. They’re slightly lighter, but have a good amount of cushion and arch support for long days on your feet.

While these shoes are not available in wide sizes, several reviewers note that if you typically wear wides you’ll be happy going a half size up.

What nurses say: “These are so comfortable and durable! My feet don't get overheated either.” -Nurse Audra

While the Clove Classic shoe benefits from being fluid-resistant, the durable and wipeable material can trap heat more easily. If you know you’ll want more breathability, check out Clove’s Aero model.

Read full review

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Best for cushion: Hoka Bondi 8

:view on Hoka | $165:view on Zappos | $165

Pros:

• Super cushy and breathable
• Available in wide
• APMA approved

Cons:

• Not easy to clean

Colorways:

20

Size run:

5-12Half sizes available

Returns:

30 days

While they’re originally designed for running, Hokas have become extremely popular among healthcare workers thanks to their cushy, shock-absorbing design.

The Bondi 8 is a lightweight, breathable shoe with neutral support and a memory foam ankle cradle. They’re approved by the American Podiatric Medical Association (APMA) and include recycled polyester throughout the upper.

One consideration: These will be tougher to keep clean than others, as they’re not fluid-resistant or machine washable.

What nurses say: “I wear two pairs of Hoka sneakers. Bondi 8 and Clifton 9. However, the Bondi 8’s have much more support in the heel and ankle, IMO. I usually wear those when I’m working three days in a row.” -Nurse Erin

While they’re originally designed for running, Hokas have become extremely popular among healthcare workers thanks to their cushy, shock-absorbing design.

Read full review

Best for plantar fasciitis: On Cloudnova

:view on ON | $160:view on Nordstrom | $150

Pros:

• Well cushioned heel
• Customizable lace system for less tying
• 10% recycled materials

Cons:

• Not easy to clean
• No wide sizes

Colorways:

14

Size run:

5-11Half sizes available

Returns:

30 days

With a rocker style shape, solid arch support, and generous heel cushion, On’s Cloudnova shoes are a hit with nurses—especially those who are prone to plantar fasciitis.

They’re not available in wide sizes, but many reviewers say the standard size is roomy enough for wide feet, especially in the toes. The Cloudnovas are soft to slide into and use a customizable lacing system that lets you tuck the laces neatly under the tongue so you can prevent the dreaded loose lace during your shift.

One consideration we should note is that these aren’t waterproof (although On does make waterproof shoes!), so they aren’t 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

With a rocker style shape, solid arch support, and generous heel cushion, On’s Cloudnova shoes are a hit with nurses—especially those who are prone to plantar fasciitis.

Read full review

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Best for matching your scrubs: FIGS | New Balance XC72

:view on FIGS | $138

Pros:

• Unisex sizing
• Water repellent finish

Cons:

• Hand wash only
• Runs large

Colorways:

6

Size run:

5.5-14.5Half sizes available

Returns:

30 days

FIGS, the popular scrubs company, partnered with New Balance to bring a line of shoes designed for healthcare providers. The XC72 collaboration is already one of the more popular models, with a focus on traction, stability, and antimicrobial materials.

There’s a water-repellent finish on the upper materials, and the shoes come with two sets of water-repellent laces. Just note, this pick is not machine washable and the shoes do have suede on the upper—so you’ll want to take care while cleaning.

What nurses say: “Comfortable the minute I put them on and worked a busy 14 hour shift. Kept my feet dry and easy to wipe clean.” - Nurse Priscilla

FIGS, the popular scrubs company, partnered with New Balance to bring a line of shoes designed for healthcare providers. The XC72 collaboration is already one of the more popular models, with a focus on traction, stability, and antimicrobial materials.

Read full review

Best for men: Nike Air Monarch

:view on Nike | $75:view on Amazon | $75

Pros:

• Available in regular & extra wide
• Leather upper for easy cleaning

Cons:

• Not vegan
• Not many color options

Colorways:

6

Size run:

6-13Half sizes available

Returns:

Varies by retailer, 60 days for Nike members, 30 days Amazon

Nike’s Air Monarchs are highly rated by nurses for being supportive, durable, and orthotic-friendly. The shoes have a leather upper that makes them more fluid-resistant and easy to wipe clean, with the soft foamy feel you’d expect from a Nike Air shoe.

One big pro of this shoe is that they’re available in extra wide sizes, so they’re roomy enough for folks with wide feet or anyone who uses custom orthotics.

What nurses say: “I’ll wear any Nikes, but especially Nike Monarchs! V comfy.” - Nurse Danny

Nike’s Air Monarchs are highly rated by nurses for being supportive, durable, and orthotic-friendly. The shoes have a leather upper that makes them more fluid-resistant and easy to wipe clean, with the soft foamy feel you’d expect from a Nike Air shoe.

Read full review

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Best clogs: Calzuro Classic

:view on Calzuro | $107

Pros:

• Plenty of color choices
• Optional heel strap and comfort insole
• Super easy to clean

Cons:

• Sizing is unique

Colorways:

17

Size run:

5.5-12.5

Returns:

30 days(customer pays shipping)

For a classic clog-style shoe, try this slip-resistant pair from Calzuro. These shoes are autoclavable (which means you can steam sterilize them), machine washable, and dishwasher-friendly.

While we didn’t see many complaints about breathability, they’re also available in a perforated design for added ventilation.

Calzuro offers the option to add a comfort insole and heel straps to keep your feet more secure. Some folks do mention the shoes running small, so take a good look at their unique size chart before ordering.

What nurses say: “I work long hours in the operating room. I’ve worn them for a week now and they are super supportive. The heel isn’t high like I thought it would be- it’s actually the perfect slope and helps with standing long hours. No back pain after a full 10 hours standing!” - Nurse Lydia

For a classic clog-style shoe, try this slip-resistant pair from Calzuro. These shoes are autoclavable (which means you can steam sterilize them), machine washable, and dishwasher-friendly.

Read full review

Comparing the best shoes for nurses:

ProductCostSizesColorwaysAllbirds Tree Runners$1055-1117Gales Frontline$905-178Clove Classic$1395-12.519Clove Aero$1395-12.55Hoka Bondi 8$1655-1220On Cloudnova$1605-1114FIGS | New Balance XC72$1385.5-14.56Nike Air Monarch$756-136Calzuro Classic$1075.5-12.517

How to choose the best shoes for nurses:

Sharkey says that, in general, a shoe should fit well, have good arch support, and have generous shock absorption and cushioning. Consider the below factors when picking which shoes are right for you.

Fit: Per Sharkey, it’s important to make sure your shoes are the appropriate size, both in terms of length and width.

“Shoes should be purchased after trying them on at the end of the day (when your feet are most swollen) to ensure that they won’t be too tight if swelling is to occur,” she advises.

Support: “A shoe for activity should not be able to be taken and bent or twisted in half—this is a sign the shoe is too flexible and won’t provide adequate support for long hours of activity,” Sharkey says.

“There should be good support at the heel counter (the back of the shoe that cups the heel). 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 type is key for finding the right pair. “Those with flat feet are going to want to look for a stability shoe or a motion control shoe, while those with high arches will be best suited with neutral shoes,” Sharkey explains.

Shock absorption & cushioning: “Because hospital and clinic settings often have nurses working on hardwood, tile, or concrete surfaces, shock absorption and cushioning is so important,” Sharkey adds.

“The better the cushioning technology in the shoe, the less shock that is transmitted up the kinetic chain through joints of the lower extremity. Less shock equlas less pain, aching and fatigue!”

Signs you're not wearing the right shoes

“Foot pain, knee pain, hip pain and back pain can be signs of inadequate shoe gear,” Sharkey says. “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 you’re experiencing continued foot pain, you may benefit from custom orthotics.

The takeaway

Because nursing is a job that keeps you on your toes—literally—it’s important to find a pair of shoes that keep your feet feeling supported and cushioned. Luckily, there’s no shortage of supportive shoes in a variety of styles for nurses to choose from.

Foot pain is a drag, but it can also lead to larger issues up the kinetic chain, such as knee and back pain. If you’re still experiencing pain on the job after trying a new pair of shoes, you might want to chat with a podiatrist about custom orthotics.

Meet The Experts

Jamey Powell is a writer and editor living in Brooklyn, NY. Previously the senior market editor at Healthline.com, she has years of experience scouring endless product reviews and testing out the latest and greatest products in the sleep, fitness, and nutrition markets.Robert Kornfeld, DPM is a holistic podiatrist, dedicated to treating chronic foot and ankle pain at its source.

2 Sources

1. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC10036639/
2. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/36637114/

Original Article