The Best Nursing Shoes That Merge Function and Comfort
Nursing is a demanding profession that requires a lot of standing and walking. Therefore, it is essential to have the appropriate footwear. Nursing shoes are specially crafted to provide comfort, support, durability, and grip during long shifts. They also encourage good posture, reduce foot fatigue, and enhance safety in slippery hospital environments. Our top picks boast high-quality materials as well as unmatched comfort and affordability. So buckle up as we explore the best nursing shoes 2024 has to offer.
Buying Guide: Choosing the Best Nursing Shoes
Choosing the ideal nursing shoes can be a critical decision for healthcare professionals. The right shoes can make the difference between a comfortable shift and a long, painful marathon. This buying guide is here to help you make an informed decision. So, whether you’re a seasoned nurse or just starting your nursing school journey, let’s take a walk together into the world of nursing shoes.
Comfort
As a nurse, you’re on your feet constantly, so comfort is paramount. The best nursing shoes provide excellent support, especially in arch areas, to alleviate foot fatigue. They should also have enough cushioning to absorb the impact of walking on hard hospital floors. The shoe’s interior should be well-padded and soft to prevent rubbing and blisters, even after prolonged wear. A good nursing shoe must have a roomy toe box to avoid squishing your toes.
Traction and Stability
Nursing can be a high-paced job, sometimes even requiring you to run. Therefore, good nursing shoes should offer superior traction and stability. Shoes with a rubber outsole provide a good grip and prevent slipping on wet or polished surfaces. Stability can also be found in shoes with a wide base, offering better balance and reducing the risk of ankle injuries.
Durability
Working long shifts means your nursing shoes will endure a lot of wear and tear. Hence, durability is another critical factor. Look out for shoes made with high-quality materials, such as leather or synthetic fabrics, that can withstand frequent use. Also, consider the construction quality; shoes with stitched seams usually last longer than those with glued ones.
Breathability
Nursing shoes should be breathable to keep your feet dry and cool during long shifts. Breathable shoes allow air circulation which reduces sweating and foot odor. Mesh or fabric upper shoes tend to be more breathable than solid leather ones. However, some leather shoes have ventilation holes or features designed to improve breathability.
Easy to Clean
In the healthcare field, you might often encounter spills and splashes. Therefore, your nursing shoes should be easy to clean and, ideally, stain-resistant. Shoes with a leather or synthetic upper are usually easy to wipe clean. If they’re machine-washable, that’s a bonus. Keep in mind that maintaining hygiene is crucial in a nursing environment.
Fit and Size
A shoe can check all the boxes, but if it doesn’t fit well, it’s not the right shoe. Nursing shoes should fit snugly but not too tight. They should not pinch or squeeze your feet. Make sure there’s enough room for your toes to wiggle. Remember, feet tend to swell a bit during long hours of standing, so choose a size that accommodates this.
Style
While functionality is key, you shouldn’t compromise on style. There are plenty of stylish nursing shoes available in various colors and designs. Some nurses prefer traditional clogs, while others go for athletic-style shoes. Choose a style that reflects your personality and fits your workplace’s dress code.
Detailing the Top Nursing Shoes of 2024
Hawkwell Nursing Shoes – Best Overall
The Hawkwell nursing shoes are made with synthetic leather uppers and feature a practical stain-resistant finish, ensuring you look neat and professional throughout the day. The Lycra fabric design on the collar hugs your feet and stretches with every step to provide ultimate flexibility and comfort. Inside, the Yoga foam comfort footbed offers much-needed support for your hardworking feet. The lightweight EVA bottom and slip-resistant outsole guarantee stability on both wet and dry surfaces, allowing you to navigate your day confidently. The tastefully added one-and-a-half-inch heel provides a flattering lift while maintaining full functionality.
Cleaning these nursing shoes is simple, thanks to their easy-to-clean design. These shoes are not just work shoes. They also sport an off-duty style with their cute slip-on styling and a sneaker-inspired silhouette. They are just as perfect for a casual outing as they are for a workday, making them the top choice on our list.
Pros
- Comfortable and soft on feet
- Resistant to wet floors
- Lightweight and easy to slip on
Cons
- Inadequate arch support
YHOON Nursing Shoes – Best Slip Resistance
The YHOON nursing shoes feature an easy slip-on design for effortless wearability. The upper showcases a breathable, lightweight air-fly woven material, providing excellent flexibility and comfort for your feet. With an upgraded air cushion sole crafted from durable MD material, these sneakers offer a soft, buffered interaction between your feet and the ground, ensuring comfortable wear all day long.
These nursing shoes are excellent for a variety of occasions, from daily walking and casual running to nursing, working, shopping, and traveling. They are great for outdoor sports, long periods of standing and driving, and indoor activities such as yoga, pilates, and dancing. Sizing is straightforward and easy, but should you have any questions, their customer service is just a quick contact away. Step into comfort with these innovative walking shoes and experience the ideal blend of style, functionality, and comfort.
Pros
- Provides high comfort level
- Promotes joint and foot relief
- Easy to put on and take off
Cons
- Shoes might be tight initially
Anywear Nursing Shoes – Most Comfortable
The Anywear nursing shoes are ideal for various professions, including healthcare workers, chefs, and restaurant staff. One of the standout features of these shoes is their unmatched cushioning and shock absorption, thanks to the injected-molded EVA upper and midsole. This not only ensures comfortable wear but also guarantees durability and easy cleanup. The shoes are equipped with antimicrobial technology, which provides added protection from foot odor. Additionally, they come with a removable, two-piece memory foam insole that molds to your feet and a heel cup that provides adequate heel support.
You don’t have to worry about slipping, as these nursing shoes have a slip-resistant bottom that keeps you safe on all surfaces. Moreover, the ventilation holes on each shoe’s interior side allow for sufficient airflow, ensuring your feet remain dry and comfortable throughout your shift.
Pros
- Comfortable for 6–8 hours of wear
- Suitable for nursing and clinical work
- Easy to slip on and off
Cons
- The insoles may wear out quickly
Sticky Nursing Shoes – Best for Wide Feet
The Sticky nursing shoes are excellent for those working in the healthcare and food service fields, offering unparalleled comfort and stability. These shoes have a proficient slip-resistant feature, ensuring that you remain steady on your feet even on slippery floors. The waterproof design is ideal for messy jobs, allowing you to focus solely on your work.
These shoes are crafted with thermoplastic rubber (TPR), a synthetic rubber polymer that is resistant to oil, heat, and abrasion and can withstand virtually anything, keeping your feet dry and comfortable all day long. Their wipeable surface makes them easy to clean, while the moisture-wicking insole absorbs sweat, keeping your feet dry even during long hours on your feet. In addition to safety, these nursing shoes also prioritize comfort. They are light and airy, providing all-day support without compromising on ease.
Pros
- Comfortable for long hours
- Easy to clean and sanitize
- Anti-slip and waterproof
Cons
- Tread wears out after 9–12 months
Natural Uniforms Nursing Shoes – Best for Keeping Feet Dry
The Natural Uniforms nursing shoes are made with medical professionals in mind, providing all-day comfort with their high arch and footbed support made entirely from 100% EVA foam. This water-resistant material ensures durability and longevity, even in fast-paced and demanding environments. These nursing clogs are not just comfortable but are also stylish. They come with an adjustable heel strap, guaranteeing a perfect fit and superior comfort. The non-marking sole is slip-resistant, offering an additional layer of safety in potentially hazardous conditions.
These nursing shoes are not only lightweight but also flexible, promising ease of movement during long shifts. Moreover, their superior construction ensures value for money, making them an excellent choice for nurses and other medical professionals. These shoes are not only practical but also environmentally friendly, reducing the need for multiple shoe replacements and contributing to a more sustainable world.
Pros
- Designed for lightweight comfort
- Durable for long-term use
- Constructed with 100% EVA foam
Cons
- Requires more supportive insole
Nursing Shoes FAQs
A: No, nursing shoes are not only for nurses. While they are designed with the needs of nurses in mind, anyone who spends a significant amount of time on their feet, like teachers, restaurant workers, or retail workers, can benefit from the comfort and support of nursing shoes.
A: When choosing nursing shoes, consider factors such as comfort, support, durability, and style. Look for shoes with cushioned insoles, arch support, breathable material, and non-slip soles. Also, ensure they are easy to clean, as hospital environments can often be messy.
A: Yes, many nursing shoe manufacturers offer models designed specifically for wide feet, ensuring comfort and a proper fit for all foot shapes and sizes.
A: Yes, many nursing shoes have removable insoles that can be replaced with custom orthotics or arch supports for additional comfort and support.
A: This largely depends on the amount of use, but generally, nursing shoes should be replaced every 6–12 months to ensure they continue providing the necessary support and comfort.
A: Yes, nursing shoes can be worn outside of work, but it's not recommended. Wearing your shoes outside can cause them to wear out faster and can also bring outside germs into clean hospital environments.
