Nurses require shoes that can withstand long shifts spent standing, walking, and maneuvering across various settings. It is essential to keep your feet, hips, and back happy, especially with the constant lifting and long hours on your feet. High-quality nursing shoes should provide excellent arch support, cushioning, and stability to prevent fatigue and discomfort. They should also be lightweight and breathable to ensure all-day comfort and prevent overheating. 

Additionally, slip-resistant soles are crucial for maintaining safety in potentially slippery hospital environments. Proper footwear can significantly reduce the risk of foot and back pain, allowing nurses to focus on delivering the best care to their patients without being distracted by discomfort or injury.

Here’s a closer look at the top picks recommended by experts, whether you’re seeking slip-resistant functionality or easy slip-on convenience:

Clove Classic Shoes | Designed to Combine Comfort, Support, and Durability

Sizes: 5 to 12.5

Colors: 7 Lacing: Slip-on with cord ties

Slip resistant: Yes 

Water-resistant: Yes

 Key Features: Clove Classic Shoes are meticulously crafted with medical professionals in mind, offering a slip-on design and fluid-resistant fabric for ease of use and comfort throughout long shifts.

 Hoka Arahi 7: Lightweight Frame for Enhanced Foot Alignment

Sizes: 5 to 12 | 

Colors: 10 | 

Lacing: Lace-up front 

Slip resistant: No

Water-resistant: No

Key Features: Hoka Arahi 7 offers superior midfoot support with its firm EVA J-frame technology, ensuring stability without compromising comfort.

 

Asics Gel-Nimbus 26: Maximum Cushioning for Long-Lasting Comfort

Sizes: 5 to 13

Colors: 12

Lacing: Lace-up front

Slip resistant: No

Water-resistant: No

 Key Features: These shoes feature gel-infused heels that absorb shock and distribute weight evenly, ideal for reducing strain during extended periods of standing.

 

Brooks Ghost 15: Airy Design for Enhanced Propulsion

 Sizes: 5 to 13

Colors: 32

Lacing: Lace-up front

Slip resistant: No

Water-resistant: No (waterproof model available)

Key Features:  Updated for lighter weight and improved support, Brooks Ghost 15 offers a balance of cushioning and responsiveness for reduced fatigue.

 Dansko Professional Clogs: Durable Clogs for Long-Term Wear

Sizes: 4.5 to 13

Colors: 20

Lacing: Slip-on 

Slip resistant: Yes

Water-resistant: Yes

 Key Features: Known for durability and waterproof qualities, Dansko Professional Clogs offer sturdy support and easy maintenance.

 

Skechers Work Sure Track Shoes: Reliable Traction for Secure Footing

Sizes: 5 to 11

Colors: 1

Lacing: Lace-up front

Slip resistant: Yes

Water-resistant: Yes

Key Features: Skechers Sure Track shoes feature a slip-resistant outsole and memory foam footbed for stability and comfort in demanding environments.

 

 Tarkine Autopilot: Roomy Toe Box and Responsive Cushioning

Sizes: 6.5 to 13

Colors: 2

Lacing: Lace-up front

Slip resistant: Yes

Water-resistant: Yes

Key Features: Tarkine Autopilot shoes are renowned for their plush foam technology and late-stage metarocker, delivering a highly supportive and cushioned ride. Featuring a PU insert for enhanced support and a soft landing, these shoes offer exceptional comfort with each step. The upper is made from 75% recycled mesh, combining sustainability with durability.