Many factors need to be considered when purchasing shoes, such as comfort style. However, for nurses, there is an added importance: safety. Since nurses work in potentially dangerous situations, safety should be the priority when choosing shoes. Nurses need shoes specifically designed to protect them from potential injuries while on the job.
The best shoes for nurses should be comfortable, supportive, durable, and slip-resistant. Comfort is essential because nurses must be on their feet all day. Support provides stability so that nurses can avoid injuries caused by strains or sprains. Durability ensures the shoes are long-lasting, while slip-resistance keeps nurses from potentially becoming victims of a fall.
We have compiled a list of comfortable and stylish nurse shoes that are supportive and slip-resistant. You can pick your dream shoe from the list of best shoes for nurses that are made for all-day wear with good arch support.
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Table of Contents
14 Best Shoes for Nurses [Women]
1. Skechers for Work Women’s Shoe
The Skechers Slip Resistant Work Shoe is ideal for nurses. You will feel comfortable in every step you take with this flexible shoe. The upper is made of leather and a slip-resistant rubber outsole to provide comfort while maintaining stability.
You can cradle the foot in a supportive and protective environment with the ergonomically designed footbed. The heel tab provides easy entry, and the full-length midsole creates a more stable platform. It will be easy for you to stand long-time.
The counter provides stability, and the suede lining ensures breathability. Your foot will not feel suffocated, giving freshness to sweaty feet. You will get the perfect fitting and comfortability due to its padded tongue and collar. The padded tongue and collar will provide a comfortable fit, and the breathable mesh lining ensures dryness.
Healthcare workers with flat feet can also wear tennis shoes and work for long hours. The heel wedge of these walking and running shoes provides extra cushioning.Â
You will feel comfortable while attending long shifts with these cushioned shoes. The toe box gives a decent space to fit the toe without tightness or looseness. Your toes will enjoy a relaxed fit and work properly.
Pros
- Comfortable
- Slip-resistant
- Easy to clean and maintain
- Fashionable
Cons
- It may be too tight for some people
Final Verdict
You will find it easy to wear these nurse shoes all day long. The padded collar and cushioned footbed provide comfort in heel pain, while the slip-resistant outsole ensures security. These features have made this shoe a top choice for many nurses, nursing instructors, teachers, postsecondary, etc. It should be on your list of best shoes for nurses.
2. ASICS Women’s Gel-Resolution 7 Tennis Shoes
The ASICS Women’s Gel-Dedicate 7 Tennis Shoes are one of the best shoes for nurses like Nurse Anesthetists and Nursing assistants/ LPN/LVN who want stylish, comfortable tennis shoes. They are made with a breathable mesh upper, textile and synthetic materials, and lace-up closure. These shoes also have a padded tongue and collar to ensure comfort.
Molded foam footbed provides cushioning, and the forefoot GEL cushioning system attenuates shock. The heel tab of this shoe offers easy on and off, while the rubber outsole has a pivot point.
Counter provides stability, and the breathable lining ensures quality. The heel wedge helps you walk with stability. The collar and tongue of these shoes relieve the foot while doing hectic tasks in the nursing profession.
The toe box provides enough space to relax your toe. These running shoes will not feel much tight or loose.
Pros
- Mesh design for ventilation
- Padded collar and tongue
- Gel cushioning system
- Easy to maintain and clean
Cons
- They are not the most stylish shoes on the market.
Final Verdict
This is one of the best slip-resistant shoes for nurses who want comfortable and stylish tennis shoes. They are made with breathable mesh and synthetic materials to ensure comfort and durability. The forefoot GEL cushioning system attenuates shock, and the Trusstic System reduces weight. The rubber outsole is also durable. These features have made these nurse shoes a good choice for RN / NP/ CNM/ CRNA/ LPN/LVN & CNA..
3. Dansko Women’s Professional Clog
The Dansko Women’s Professional Clog is a popular choice for nurses. Many nurses have been wearing it for a long time. This leather pair has a seal of approval from the American Podiatric Medical Association.Â
They are made with a leather upper, a padded instep collar, and a toe box with ample room. The nurse shoes also have a cushioned footbed and a non-slip outsole.
Ankle collar and the instep provide comfort, and the cork midsole absorbs shock. This clog will be convenient if you go through any foot issue such as plantar fasciitis, bunions, fungi, or flat foot. You can also use compression socks if needed with these classic clogs.
The heel tab of this shoe ensures easy on and off, while the slip-resistant outsole provides durability. The heel counter prevents your feet from slipping out of the shoe, and the slip-resistant sole provides stability.
Heel wedges are tall but absorb shock well and provide excellent heel support. Your feet will be able to work productively while wearing these.
The toe box of this shoe is quite roomy but not too wide. Your toes will be able to work correctly without being squished.
Pros
- Roomy toe box
- Slip-resistant
- Collar and instep provide comfort
Cons
- Quite heavy shoes
Final Verdict
The Dansko Clogs are a popular choice for nurses because they are comfortable, stylish, and easy to maintain. Nurses with plantar fasciitis need ample arch support to make the feet comfortable, and these nursing clogs help in it. It is made with leather and synthetic materials to ensure comfort and durability. The cushioned footbed absorbs shock, while the slip-resistant outsole provides security. You can wear these professional clogs for any healthcare work profile.
4. Crocs Unisex-Adult Men’s and Women’s Classic Clog
The Crocs Unisex-Adult Men’s and Women’s Classic Clog is popular for nurses. They are made with molded Croslite material, making them lightweight and comfortable.
These shoes also have a supportive back strap and an advanced toe-box ventilation system for a secure fit. The soles are slip-resistant and non-marking.
It flexes easily so that you can work all day productively long without feeling tired. The sole of Crocs Unisex clogs has a patented design.
The ankle collar of this clog provides comfort, and the supportive insoles ensure moldability. The heel of this clog has a roomy platform, ensuring comfort.
This clog has a Toe Box that is designed for your convenience. The toe box area of this shoe is extensive, allowing room for all toes to sit comfortably & naturally in the shoes. Nurses having plantar fasciitis and other foot issues can enjoy wearing this clog.
It is the most lightweight clog on the market. You can wear it all day long without feeling tired or aching feet at the end of the day.
Pros
- Lightweight and comfortable
- The soles are slip-resistant
- Advanced toe-box ventilation system
Cons
- Not the most stylish
- Not many color options
Final Verdict
It is not stylish, but certified nursing assistants and registered nurses prefer it because of its slip-resistant design. They are perfect for wet conditions and will keep your feet safe all day long. Easy to wear and clean it off.
5. HOKA ONE ONE Bondi 7 Women’s Shoes
The HOKA ONE ONE Bondi 7 Women’s Shoes is a good option for nurses looking for stylish and vibrant shoes. They are made with a nylon upper, mesh, and reflective details. The upper of this shoe is abrasion-resistant, waterproof, and breathable.
The shoe’s interior has a lining that speeds up the breakdown of odor. The Ortholite footbed of this shoe also ensures comfort and keeps your feet dry all day long. It has a soft and cushioned insole that provides ample cushioning.
Midsole of this shoe is made of energy-returning materials. The outsole is made of rubber, which offers durability. The outsole has a durable rubber design. The midsole is made with EVA foam, giving good shock absorption. You can use it for work as well as other purposes.
Stylish heel tab adds to the appearance of this shoe. The counter heel is also made with shock-absorbing materials to give you stability. The heel wedges of these Hoka Shoes are about an inch tall. The forefoot is not as roomy as the rest of this shoe, but it offers enough space for comfort.
The toe box of this shoe is more comprehensive than many others, but it is not too big. It offers enough space to keep your toes comfortable.
Pros
- Stylish and sprightly
- Roomy toe box
- The shoe is lightweight and comfortable
Cons
- Not the most supportive
- Some issues with sizing
Final Verdict
The HOKA ONE ONE Bondi 7 Women’s Shoes is a stylish and supportive sneakers for nurses that offer superior cushioning and grip. It is an excellent choice if you have wide feet.
6. Brooks Women’s Ghost 13 Running Shoe
The shoe has been improved with better transitions for zero distractions so that you can focus more on your run. It is a certified PDAC A5500 Diabetic shoe and has been granted the APMA Seal of Acceptance. The Brooks Women’s Ghost 13 Running Shoe is an excellent choice for nurses looking for a reliable and comfortable shoe.
Breathable and lightweight materials are used in the making of the upper. The upper is also designed for the specific shape of the human foot to be more comfortable than other shoes.
The shoe is made with a Brooks DNA padding system, offering unparalleled shock absorption and cushioning. The top sole is made with a durable material that provides durability.
Brooks Women’s Ghost 13 Running Shoe has a soft cushioning midsole. The outsole is the element that helps you grip onto the surface, so it offers reliable traction.
Pros
- Lightweight and durable shoe
- Roomy toe box
- Good Grip
- Improved transitions for zero distractions
Cons
- It may be too stiff for some people
Final Verdict
The Brooks Women’s Ghost 13 are great shoes for nurses looking for a reliable and comfortable shoe that offers improved transitions and cushioning. It may be too stiff for some people, but this fashionable footwear it’s an excellent option overall..
7. Crocs Unisex- The Clock Literide Clog
The shoes are made with molded Croslite material for comfort. They also have an advanced toe-box ventilation system to keep your feet cool and dry. It is an excellent choice for nurses looking for comfortable and slip-resistant shoes.
Non-marking and slip-resistant outsoles give you sturdy footing. It features easy-to-clean outsoles of 90% rubber / 10% polyurethane blend. The back support of this shoe is designed with a broad construction to give you stability.
The toebox of this clog is wide and roomy, but it does not feel too big. The shape of the toebox is quite friendly, and your toes will feel comfortable even after wearing these for a long time.
Pros
- Slip-resistant
- Easy to clean
- Comfortable
- Molded Croslite material for comfort
Cons
- It may not last long
Final Verdict
The Crocs Unisex-Adult Men’s and Women’s on The Clock Literide Clog is an excellent choice for nurses having plantar fasciitis or other issues. This clog is easy to clean with stain-resistant outer. These shoes offer a relaxed fit, and we recommend ordering a size down to the next largest whole size.
8. Reebok Women’s Classic Renaissance Sneaker
The Reebok Women’s Classic Renaissance Sneaker is a solid choice for nurses looking for a comfortable and supportive shoe. The upper of this shoe features mesh, soft suede-like material, and synthetic leather overlays.
This classic silhouette features the durable and lightweight EVA foam that has made it an icon since its debut in 1979, and it will still be just as comfy on your feet 40 years from now!
A classic gum window outsole that’s guaranteed never to wear out. The insole of this shoe is made with the anatomical IMEVA foam insole, which is lightweight and molded for maximum comfort. The material will conform to your feet, which will help you get better support.
Ankle collar height is designed to provide optimal comfort. It will also cradle your foot well. The heel tab of this shoe is designed to help you get the boots on quickly. The heel counter is designed to provide you with a stable heel.
The wedge of this shoe is an added feature to give you a little lift in the heel. It will also add extra support to your feet when they are tired. The toe box of this shoe is flexible and generous. It will not feel too narrow or constricting for your toes.
Pros
- Stylish design
- Reliable brand name
- Durable and lightweight EVA foam
Cons
- Low profile design
Final Verdict
The Reebok Women’s Classic Renaissance Sneaker is a reliable and reliable brand name offering stylish design. It is a perfect choice for nurses looking for a solid and supportive shoe. Sizes run small, so order up a size or two.
9. Hawkwell Women’s Lightweight Slip-On Nurse Shoes
The Hawkwell Women’s Lightweight Slip-On shoes are an excellent choice for nurses looking for comfortable and lightweight shoes. They feature synthetic leather and mesh uppers for durability and breathability.
Slip-resistant outsoles provide superior traction on wet or slippery surfaces. The heel of the shoes is slightly raised to give you additional support. It will also help prevent backaches caused by low-heeled shoes.
Gusseted and padded tongues provide extra comfort when walking. It will also keep your feet securely in place.
The toe box gives an ample amount of room for your toes. It’s not too narrow or too wide. The seamless toe box lining reduces the chances of blisters, so you’ll have comfortable feet even after wearing these shoes for hours.
Pros
- Durable synthetic leather and mesh uppers
- Slip-resistant outsoles
- Easy to clean
Cons
- Not Much Stylish
Final Verdict
The Hawkwell Women’s Lightweight Slip-On is an excellent choice for nurses looking for a comfortable and lightweight shoe. Some nurses found them to be a bit narrow, so sizing up might help. The high demand for this makes it one of the best shoes for nurses.
10. Sticky Work Shoes for Women
The Sticky Professional Shoes for Women are great for nurses looking for breathable and lightweight shoes. The upper shoe is made of synthetic material with mesh for breathability.
This shoe’s outsole is made of rubber with a diamond-patterned design that provides traction. The material will also protect the shoe’s bottom from wear and tear.
Lightweight and shock-absorbing EVA foam midsole provide comfort on your feet. It will also help protect your feet from injuries caused by slipping while at work.
Moisture-wicking and antimicrobial insole help to prevent the growth of odors. The insole of this shoe is made up of a layer of TPU (thermoplastic polyurethane) with a unique “sticky” design that will provide you with an excellent grip. The insole is alsoÂ
The sticky professional heels of the shoes will help you get a good grip when walking on slippery surfaces. The toe box of these shoes is an added advantage, as it will give space for your toes without being too wide. The material over the toe box will not wear out easily.
Pros
- Breathable
- Comfortable
- Sticky professional heels
- Waterproof
Cons
- Not much stylish.
Final Verdict
The Sticky Professional Shoes for Women are excellent for nurses looking for breathable and lightweight shoes. They are easy to clean, have a low-profile design, slip-resistant outsoles give you sturdy footing on wet or slippery surfaces, and the ergonomic design will provide extra support.
11. HKR Women’s Walking Shoes
The HKR Women’s Walking Shoes are an excellent choice for nurses looking for an easy slip-on style shoe. This shoe’s upper body is made of mesh fabric to keep your feet as cool as possible.
These shoes also have slip-resistant outsoles that provide sturdy footing on wet or slippery surfaces. They have removable footbeds that can be washed in the dishwasher, making them easy to clean.
They also feature stretchable fabrics for ease of movement and breathable materials for airflow on your feet. You can easily slip these shoes on and off as they feature a heel hole design with an elastic band.
You will get proper arch support with this shoe and help with backaches caused by low-heeled shoes.
The heel wedge of this shoe adds an extra half-inch to your height, making it look like you have a longer and slimmer figure. The toe box of these shoes has enough room for your toes to fit without being too wide.
Pros
- Easy slip-on style
- Removable & washable footbeds
- Stretchable fabrics for ease of movement
- Breathable materials for airflow on your feet
- Slip-resistant outsoles
Cons
- Can get scuffed quickly
- Not very durable.
Final Verdict
The HKR Women’s Walking Shoes are an excellent choice for nurses looking for an easy slip-on style shoe. They come in both wide and regular widths and feature an effortless slip-on style and removable footbeds that can be washed easily. Slip-resistant outsoles provide sturdy footing on wet or slippery surfaces and all-day comfort walking shoes with arch support.
12. Crocs Women’s and Men’s Classic Animal Print Clog
The Crocs Women’s and Men’s Classic Animal Print Clog is an excellent choice for nurses looking for comfortable shoes. These shoes come in various colors and styles to fit any personality. They are lightweight and feature Iconic Crocs Comfort.
You will get excellent traction on wet and dry surfaces due to its slip-resistant rubber outsole made with a patent-pending tread design.
Ventilation ports add breathability and help shed water and debris quickly, making these the perfect water shoes.
The backstrap is adjustable for a customized fit and ensures your Crocs are on securely. The Crocs Women’s and Men’s Classic Animal Print Clog also has a heel measurement of approximately 0.68″. Toe boxes of these shoes are roomy and allow your toes to move freely.
Pros
- Durable and comfortable
- Lightweight and breathable
- Ideal for patients with foot issues
Cons
- Not very stylish.
Final Verdict
The Crocs Women’s and Men’s Classic Animal Print Clog is an excellent choice for nurses looking for comfortable shoes. They are lightweight, feature Iconic Crocs Comfort, ventilation ports that add breathability, help shed water and debris quickly, and are available in various colors and styles to fit any personality. They come in both wide and regular widths.
13. Adidas Women’s Ultraboost Running Shoe
The Adidas Women’s Ultraboost Running Shoe is an excellent choice for nurses looking for a comfortable and cushioned shoe.
These shoes come in different colors to match any uniform color or personality. They feature Adidas Primeknit textile upper with knit frame and glass lens lace closure, providing support and targeted flexibility.
They have a flexible Stretchweb outsole and a Torsion System in the midfoot for stability. The footbeds of these shoes are removable so that you can replace them with your orthotic.
It has a knitted collar for a snug and comfortable fit around your ankle, which features a lace closure that you can adjust to find your perfect fit.
The toe box is roomy and will allow your toes to move freely. Lastly, they have Boost material that provides excellent energy return when you need it most.
Pros
- Adidas Primeknit textile upper
- Flexible Stretchweb outsole
- Torsion System in the midfoot for stability
- Knitted collar for a snug
Cons
- Not waterproof
Final Verdict
The Adidas Women’s Ultraboost Running Shoe is one of the best tennis shoes for nurses who want comfort and cushioning. You can find these shoes in different colors, and they feature a knitted collar which provides the needed comfort and snugness. If you want only sporty shoes, this can be your choice.
14. Sticky Pro Shoes
These shoes are made with a rubber blend that is designed to fit like a glove on your feet and provide you with non-slip protection. It is an excellent shoe for CNA/RN and other nurse practitioners looking for slip-resistant shoes.
The outsole is slip-resistant and flexible, which will provide you with extra comfort. The innersole of these shoes is made with memory foam that molds to the shape of your feet for maximum comfort.
They are also waterproof, so you can work without getting wet. These shoes also have air vents that help keep your feet cool and dry. Toebox is roomy and provides plenty of wiggle room for your toes.
The ankle collar of these shoes is padded, providing comfort when you need to bend and move around. The heel is approximately 1″ in height, which is not too high and won’t cause strain on your back.
Pros
- Rubber blend gives excellent fitting.
- Non-Slip Sole
- Waterproof
Cons
- Sizing runs small
Final Verdict
The Sticky Pro Shoes are an excellent choice for Nurse midwives (CNM) and other Nurse professionals looking for slip-resistant shoes. This shoe comes in different colors to match any uniform color or personality and features a rubber blend designed for superb fitting. It provides non-slip protection, is waterproof, and sizing runs small.
Common Problems Faced by Wearing Wrong Shoes
- Feet feel tired at the end of a long day
- Ankle pain due to excessive weight bearing on it
- Backache due to prolonged standing
- Increased chances of falls and slips
- Higher risk of hip and back pain due to increased weight on one side
- An increased risk of developing foot disorders such as corns, calluses, hammertoes, bunions, and ingrown toenails
- In the highest risk group, foot disorders can lead to deformities in the bones and joints of the feet
- Heel pain, knee pain, and lower back pain
- Increased chance of injury to feet, ankles, back, and hips due to fall
- Decreased efficiency of job performance due to fatigue, discomfort, pain, and injury
How to Pick the Best Shoes for Nurses- Buying Guide [2024]
If you are thinking about how to pick the best Nurse Shoes for Women, then there are a few things that you should keep in mind.
Many brands offer shoes, such as sneakers, clogs, and boots. These are all designed considering several factors of healthcare workers, CNA, RN, nursing school students, and medical professionals.
This guide will help to pick the right shoes for Nurses such as CNA / RN / NP/ CNM/ CRNA/ LPN/LVN and other health care professionals.
Size
When ordering a shoe, it is essential to remember that sizing can run small. Make sure to order a size up if unsure of the fit. Size is an another important factor when picking best shoes for nurses.
Comfort and Support
Make sure your nurse shoes provide ample cushioning and great arch support. Extra cushioning will provide comfort, while arch support will reduce foot discomfort and leg pain. You can also add custom orthotics for required comfort. It is the an essential feature because nurses work long shifts of 12 hours and so on sometimes depends on the situation.
Material
Shoes for nurses and medical professionals come in various materials, so choosing high-quality shoes matter a lot. Many nurses prefer shoes made with a rubber blend because they fit glove like base layer and provide non-slip protection. Some also like to have traditional footwear foam.
Style
Shoes and clogs come in many different types, so it is important to find one that matches your personality and interests. You have the choice to choose from various colors and designs to find the perfect shoe for you.
Slip Resistance
Choosing a nursing shoe that offers slip resistance is essential. It will help to keep you safe and protected while working. Fluid Resistant shoes are very important because most icu nurses have to work on wet floors in operating room.
Waterproof
Waterproof shoes can be a lifesaver when working in a wet environment. Choose a shoe that will keep your feet dry in any situation.
Type
There are three types of nurse shoes- slip-resistant, non-slip, and regular. Choosing the right kind of shoe for your specific needs is vital.
Brand
Every brand has unique points; we have explained everything that will help medical students and nurses. Your hunt for best shoes for nurses will depend on this factor too.
Price
Shoes can range in price depending on the brand, style, material used, etc. Keeping your budget in mind while searching for the perfect shoe is essential.
FAQs-
Are nursing shoes necessary?
Nurse shoes are vital if you are a nurse practitioner or engaged in the healthcare sector, they can help prevent pain or discomfort while working. You have various options for nurse shoes as per your nursing profile.
What are the different types of nurses?
Below are the types of nurses who counts as healthcare professionals:
- Nurses like Licensed Practical and Licensed Vocational Nurse (LPN/LVN)Â
- Nursing Assistant (CNA)
- Registered Nurse (RN)
- Nurse Practitioners (NP)
- Nurse Midwife (CNM)
- Nurse Anesthetist (CRNA)
- Nursing Instructors and Teachers
- Postsecondary
How can I tell if a nursing shoe is waterproof?
Look for a shoe that has a waterproof label or is made of a water-resistant material.
How often should I replace my nursing shoes?
It is recommended to replace your shoes every 6-12 months, as they will start to wear down over time.
What type of nursing shoes should I buy?
There are three types of nurse shoes- slip-resistant, non-slip, and regular. You need to be aware while picking the shoe style as per your foot type and professional need.
Can I wear regular shoes instead of nursing shoes?
It is not recommended to wear regular shoes instead of nurse shoes, as they may not offer the same level of support or protection.
What should I do if my nursing shoes are causing pain or discomfort?
If your shoes are causing pain or discomfort, it is important to seek medical attention.
How can I keep my nursing shoes clean and sanitary?
Store your shoes in a cool, dry place; they should be washed regularly and thoroughly dried before storing them.
Are nursing shoes more expensive than regular shoes?
Best shoes for CNA & RN can be more expensive than regular shoes, but they are designed to be long-lasting and durable.
Are nursing shoes waterproof?
Some shoes are water-resistant or waterproof; it is vital to look for this feature when shopping for new shoes.
How do I know if my nurse shoes are the correct size?
The best way to determine if your shoes are the correct size is to try them on in person. Ensure they are comfortable and fit well after making a purchase online. Don’t hesitate to replace it if the size is wrong.
Final Words
When searching for the best sneakers for a nursing career, it is vital to keep a few things in mind, as mentioned above. If you have other requirements, pick a dual-purpose running or walking shoe. You can wear them for a long shift at work and use them for secondary purposes like running, sports or gym.
If you are experiencing pain or discomfort while wearing your shoes, it is essential to seek medical attention. Do not continue to wear a shoe if it is causing pain or discomfort. I hope this guide will help to pick up the right RN & CNA shoes.
Mrs. Marie Brown has been a registered nurse for over 25 years. She began her nursing career at a Level I Trauma Center in downtown Chicago, Illinois. There she worked in the Emergency Department and on the Surgical Intensive Care Unit. After several years, she moved to the Midwest and continued her nursing career in a critical care setting. For the last 10 years of her nursing career, Mrs. Brown worked as a flight nurse with an air ambulance service. During this time, she cared for patients throughout the United States.