Nursing is a demanding profession not only intellectually and emotionally, but also physically.
Every shift, nurses walk through hospital corridors, move in and out of multiple rooms, stand for extended periods of time, provide constant care to patients, and respond to emergencies with quick and at times, uncomfortable movements. Therefore, finding and wearing the best nursing shoes is imperative.
The best nursing shoes are those that offer comfort, support, and durability. While some trendy nursing shoes can cost well over $149 and up, we'll explore below some of the most popular options available that won’t break your budget.
The importance of choosing the best nursing shoes
Before diving into our list of the best nursing shoes, it's important to understand why selecting the right shoes is crucial for nurses.
Poor footwear can lead to a host of problems including foot, knee, and back pain, and is one of several factors that can contribute to the development of long-term musculoskeletal problems.
Consider the following when choosing nursing shoes:
- Comfort: Nurses spend most of their time on their feet, so look for shoes with adequate cushioning in the sole, a properly fitted heel, and an ample-sized toe box, ensuring your toes aren’t crushed and cramped. Shoes that are too tight cause foot pain and contribute to the development of bunions and hammer toes, according to the American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons.
- Support: Good support helps prevent foot, knee, and back pain. This includes choosing shoes that provide solid arch support and a stable sole. Shoes that lack good arch support can cause a painful condition known as plantar fasciitis.
- Durability: The best nursing shoes should be made of durable materials that can withstand the rigors of your work setting.
- Slip resistance: No matter what setting you work in, floors can, at times, be slippery, so shoes with good gripping capability are essential to help prevent falls.
- Breathability: Shoes made from breathable materials, such as leather or mesh, help keep moisture at bay and reduce your risk of developing fungal infections.
Six of the best nursing shoes for your budget
Here are some of the best nursing shoes that are reasonably priced and provide comfort and support:
1. Skechers Work Sure Track
Price: Around $57 to $95
Features:
- Available in men’s and women’s sizes
- Memory foam insoles for added comfort
- Slip-resistant outer sole
- Leather upper for durability
- Lace-up closure for stability
Pros:
- Affordable
- Comfortable for long shifts
- Good traction
- Several style options to choose from
Cons:
- May require a break-in period
- May need to size up or down to get the right fit
2. Crocs On-The-Clock Work Slip-On
Price: Around $45 to $75
Features:
- Available in men’s and women’s sizes
- Proprietary foam material in the footbed for comfort
- Slip-resistant treads
- Easy to clean
- Enclosed toe and heel for protection
Pros:
- Lightweight and comfortable
- Affordable
- Easy to slip on and off
- East to clean with soap and water
- Available in different styles
Cons:
- Limited arch support
- Man-made material
- Exposure to heat can make them warp or shrink
3. New Balance 608v5
Price: Around $75 to $80
Features:
- Available in both men’s and women’s sizes
- ABZORB heel crash pad for extra shock absorption
- Dual-density foam collar
- Leather upper
Pros:
- Excellent support and cushioning
- Durable
- Versatile for both work and casual wear
Cons:
- Slightly heavier than other options
4. Dansko XP 2.0 Clogs
Price: Around $120 to $155
Features:
- Options available for men and women
- Removable dual-density footbed for arch support
- Slip-resistant outer sole
- Lightweight EVA midsole
- Roomy toe box
- Leather uppers
Pros:
- Superior arch support
- Long-lasting durability
- Different designs
Cons:
- Higher end of the budget-friendly spectrum
- Some reviews mention inconsistent sizing
5. Fila Memory Workshift
Price: Around $65 to $75
Features:
- Available in men’s and women’s sizes
- Memory-foam sock liner
- Slip-resistant rubber outsole
- Leather and synthetic overlays for breathability
Pros:
- Several affordable style options
- Comfortable memory foam
- Solid grip to the outer soles
Cons:
- May wear out faster with heavy use
- Some reviews mention concerns about overall quality
6. Merrell Encore
Price: Around $75 to $129
Features:
- Full-grain leather and fabric upper options
- Cushioned EVA foot bed
- Slip-resistant outsole
- Ortho-lite anatomical footbed
Pros:
- Comfortable and supportive
- Cushioned heels for shock absorption
- Mesh lining for moisture wicking
- Easy to clean
- Durable
Cons:
- Limited color options in some of the styles
Tips for maintaining your nursing shoes
To ensure your nursing shoes last as long as possible and continue to provide you support you need, follow these maintenance tips:
- Rotate shoes. If possible, have at least two pairs of work shoes to rotate. This allows each pair to air more thoroughly between shifts.
- Clean regularly. Wipe down your shoes after each shift to remove obvious dirt and debris, in addition to any microbes they may be harboring from the clinical environment.
- Replace insoles. Over time, insoles can wear out. Replacing them periodically can extend the life of your shoes and maintain comfort.
- Store properly. To keep your nursing shoes in good shape, store them away from direct sunlight to prevent fading to their color and avert heat damage to heat-vulnerable materials. Consider using a shoe rack which can provide good aeration, and storing in a low-humidity closet, can help prolong the life of your shoes.
There are many options to consider when seeking the best nursing shoes in a wide range of budgets. By considering the options listed above and taking good care of your shoes, you can keep your feet happy and healthy without breaking the bank.
Investing in the best nursing shoes is an investment in your own health and well-being. Happy feet along with other engaging in self-care measures like stress management, can help you have a better day at work and in the end, assist you in providing better care for your patients.
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