Nurses and other healthcare professionals can log 15,000+ steps per shift. It's no surprise that your shoes play a huge role in how you feel after a long day. Here, you’ll find a curated selection of top-rated men’s and women’s nursing shoes and sneakers designed for those on their feet all day.
What makes work shoes for nurses comfy?
Spending so many hours walking and standing means a good pair of shoes is the most important thing. Studies show that doctors and nurses are at a higher risk of musculoskeletal issues, which can lead to lower back and leg pain.
So, what should you look for in a proper pair of shoes for hospital work? The most important factors are fit, cushioning, and stability.
Cushioning, Drop and Stack Height in Nurse Shoes
While mushy shoes might feel comfortable at first, they can lead to fatigue and strain during long shifts. The best shoes for healthcare workers are those with balanced cushioning and more support.
Stack Height. Shoes with a heel stack height of at least 30mm and a forefoot stack of 20mm or more provide enough material between your feet and hard hospital floors to protect your joints.
Drop. The drop (height difference from heel to forefoot) affects where pressure lands on your foot:
- 4mm drop (e.g. Hoka): Less forefoot pressure, might help with Morton's neuroma, metatarsalgia, and knee pain.
- 8mm drop (e.g. ASICS): Balanced option for most foot types.
- 10mm drop (e.g. New Balance): Better for plantar fasciitis and Achilles issues, as it keeps the tendon in a shortened position.
Cushioning. The ideal foam is a balance between soft and firm. Overly soft, "marshmallow-like" foam can lack stability and wear out quickly.
Support and Stability in Nurse Shoes
A supportive shoe prevents your feet from overworking to stabilize your body. Good nursing shoes have:
- Wide Midsole. A wider base provides a larger landing area, which prevents your foot from rolling.
- Torsional rigidity.The shoe shouldn't be easy to twist or wring out like a dishcloth. A stiffer structure offers better support.
- Heel counter. A firm heel counter locks your foot in place, preventing in-shoe slipping and giving ankle support.
- Non-slip outsoles: Look for slip-resistant shoes. Their outsoles have been tested on wet surfaces and typically feature deeper tread patterns.
Don’t ignore your unique foot needs!
Size and Toe Box
Your feet can swell after hours of standing, so a proper fit is essential.
- Sizing: Don't just rely on your usual size. Brands vary, and your foot size can change over time. Measure your foot length before purchase. Do it at the end of the day when your feet are a bit swollen.
- Toe Box Width: Generally, avoid shoes with narrow, tapered toe boxes. Opt for a wider, more rounded shape that gives your toes room to splay naturally.
- Width Options: If you have wide feet or bunions, look for brands like Hoka, Brooks, and New Balance that offer their models in wide or extra-wide sizes. A stretchy knit upper can also provide more flexibility.
Why athletic shoes and sneakers are often better than clogs for nurses
Many healthcare professionals swear by clogs because they are easy to clean and don’t slip. However, athletic shoes designed for walking and running often provide superior benefits:
- They offer better shock absorption and stability.
- A padded heel counter and a lacing system keep your foot firmly in place.
- Most athletic shoes can easily fit custom medical inserts.
- Unlike clogs with ventilation holes, athletic shoes offer better protection from spills and bodily fluids.
- Many models feature advanced mesh uppers that offer better airflow than all-foam clogs.
What actually matters
- Get fitted properly: Your feet change, and proper fitting beats brand loyalty.
- Prioritize comfort over trends: You'll be in these shoes for 12+ hours.
- Consider your work environment: OR nurses need different features than floor nurses.
- Don't cheap out, but don't overspend: The sweet spot seems to be $100-180.
- Replace them regularly: Even the best shoes lose support after 6-12 months of heavy use.
- Rotate between two pairs: Different brands stress your feet in different ways, and giving shoes time to decompress between wears extends their life significantly.
- Wear compression socks: Compression socks reduce leg fatigue, swelling, and discomfort from long standing. Start with 15 mmHg cotton socks (better moisture-wicking) and adjust as needed.
At RunUnited, you’ll find a large selection of comfortable nurse shoes for men and women, whether you’re looking for classic all-white or black leather shoes, color sneakers, or simple non-slip options. Our shoe range features trusted brands that are favorites among healthcare workers, like HOKA, known for their ultra-cushioned styles like the Bondi and Clifton, and Brooks, celebrated for their perfect blend of arch support and durability in lines like the Ghost and Adrenaline GTS. You’ll also find popular picks from On Cloud, New Balance, and more.
