As a nurse, choosing the right shoes is crucial. You're on your feet for long hours, constantly moving and standing, so having comfortable and supportive footwear is crucial.
With so many options out there, it can be overwhelming trying to find the best shoes for nurses. To help you make the right footwear choices, we asked the experts (the nurses that follow Nurse.com on Instagram) their thoughts on the best shoes for nurses.
The results are in — when asked “What’s the best shoe for nurses?” 74% of respondents said running shoes, 14% said Crocs, and 11% said clogs. For brands of shoes, 41% of respondents said Brooks was the best, 29% said Hoka, 18% said Clove, and 12% said Dansko.
Recommended shoes for nurses
- STAND+ — STAND+ is a rising star in the market of footwear designed for healthcare professionals. Their shoes are crafted to provide the utmost comfort and support for nurses who spend extensive hours on their feet. Key features of STAND+ shoes include their ergonomic design, slip-resistant soles, and breathable materials. These shoes are tailored to meet the rigorous demands of nursing, ensuring that your feet remain comfortable and well-supported throughout even the longest shifts. One of their popular models is the STAND+ All-Day Comfort shoe, which combines durability with a sleek, professional look.
- Brooks — Brooks is a well-known brand in the running community, but their shoes are also popular among nurses. Their shoes are designed to provide excellent arch support and cushioning, which is essential for nurses who are constantly on their feet. Brooks shoes are also known for their durability, so you can trust that they will hold up well to the demands of your job. One popular model is the Brooks Ghost 15.
- Hoka — Hoka is known for its maximalist running shoes, but they also offer a great selection of shoes for nurses. Hoka shoes are loved by nurses for their comfort and cushioning. Their shoes feature a thick, supportive midsole that provides excellent shock absorption, making them a great choice for nurses who are constantly on the move. Hoka shoes are also lightweight, which can help reduce fatigue during long shifts. The Hoka Bondi 8 is a popular model with nurses.
- Clove — Clove is another brand that has been gaining popularity among nurses. Clove shoes are designed specifically for healthcare professionals, so they understand the unique needs of nurses. One of the standout features of Clove shoes is their slip-resistant outsoles, which are essential for nurses working in fast-paced and often slippery hospital environments. Clove nursing shoes also feature a supportive footbed and a roomy toe box, which is important for nurses who spend long hours on their feet.
- Dansko — Dansko shoes have long been a favorite among nurses for their comfort and support. Dansko shoes are known for their rocker-bottom outsole, which promotes a natural gait and helps reduce fatigue during long shifts. Additionally, Dansko shoes are made with high-quality materials and are built to last, so you can trust that they will hold up well to the demands of your job.
No matter where you work or what role you’re in, you’ll need comfortable shoes as a nurse.
Whether you prefer the cushioning and support of Brooks, the comfort and shock absorption of Hoka, the slip-resistant outsoles of Clove, or the rocker-bottom outsole of Dansko, or the innovative approach of STAND+, there is a nursing shoe out there that will meet your needs. Take the time to find the right pair for you, and your feet will thank you for it.
Whether you're actively seeking a new role or assessing your next steps, explore Nurse.com's talent marketplace to help match your experience and skills to the best-fitting role.
