Nurses work long hour shifts, dealing with many highly stressful situations throughout the day and as such they need to be comfortable to be able to perform optimally. Typical Nurses attire consists of a lab coat, a pair of scrubs (top and bottom) and a pair of comfortable shoes.
Being comfortable is essential in to the profession. Sore, achy tired feet do not make forcheerful nursing which in turn affects the quality of service being rendered to patients.
The scrubs and lab coat need to be loose fitting made from cotton and “breathe” to allow for cooling and sweat absorption. The shoes need to be extremely comfortable.
Comfortable shoes are an absolute necessity because nurses stand for incredibly long hours and are carrying the full weight of the individual.
Comfortable shoes need to be of the following characteristics –
- Have enough space at the front of the shoe for the toes (called the toe box)
- Have an insole – the inside padding of the shoe
- Have an outsole – the part of the shoe that makes contact with the ground
- Have a soft sole which absorbs shock, very important detail
- Have a low heel which does not put any pressure on the front of the foot
- Must be soft breathable material with laces or Velcro to fasten the shoe
- Very important that the sole (underside) of the shoe be slip proof.
Table of Contents
Choosing the Most Comfortable Nursing Shoes for You
However, you can rest assured that one of the best ways to get your hands on the most comfortable nurse shoes out there is to focus on brands and styles that have a great track record for getting even the hardest working nurses through their days.
After days of research, we came up with the most comfortable nursing shoes available on the market right now.
1. Nurse Mate Quantum Women’s Slip On

The shoes include a Pillow Top footbed that provides the ultimate comfort for your feet. The unique DRYZ technology works by absorbing moisture and perspiration to keep your feet dry and cool all day long.
The shoe is also designed with composite shanks that add extra support to the shoe and provide more stability. The leather uppers are stain-resistant to add to the life of the shoe.
2. Keen Utility Women’s PTC Slip On II Work Shoe

The memory foam footbed is extremely soft and provides comfort for your feet throughout your entire shift. The medial side gores works to help the shoe conform to your foot adding to the comfort level.
The slip on design also makes getting in and out of these shoes quick and easy.
In addition, the slip resistant sole prevent unnecessary falls. The water resistant leather uppers are easy to clean and maintain.
3. Sketchers for Work Women’s D’Lite SR Work Shoes

The shoes are made with lightweight leather upper that put less stress on the feet and legs. The interior is completely padded with soft cushion material, including the tongue and collar.
The shoes include a removable insole that allows you to easily replace it with a custom insert. The skid-resistant and safety toe design prevent falls and improves your stability.
4. Alegria Debra Professional Slip On

The shoe insole is made with cork and latex, which makes it extremely soft and actually allows the shoe to conform to your foot. The goring sides add to the comfort of the shoe and makes them fit better.
The leather upper are stain resistant and can easily be wiped clean. The slip-resistant sole is made with the Rocker design that adds to your stability and takes that pressure off your feet.
5. Dansko Professional – White Box

Several special features are included in this shoe’s design to add to its comfort, including arch support, a contoured midsole, and shock absorption capabilities.
The insole includes extra padding that conforms to the shape of your foot. The sole is made with the Rocker design to improve movement and reduce pressure on your legs, knees and feet.
Some nurses prefer a footwear option that is less like a sneaker and more like a clog. Nursing clogs like this stylish, simple option from Dansko include standout features like a PU outsole for unbeatable shock absorption and lasting durability will make even double shifts pain free.
Supple leather construction and high quality man made soles ensure that your clogs will get even more comfortable the more you wear them. Platform soles and a curved design allow this shoe to mold itself to the natural contours of your foot.
No wonder Dansko is known in many circles for making the most comfortable shoes for nurses known to man!
6. Nurse Mates Nursing Shoes

A generously padded pillow top insole makes working for hours on your feet a breeze. Nurse Mates shoes are durable and utilitarian as well thanks to a slip-resistant sole and a high quality leather/nylon construction that stands the test of time.
7. Skechers Slip-On Sneakers

A combination leather and synthetic construction strikes a great balance between value and durability. These shoes are great looking as well – something that you can wear with pride even when you’re not at work.
How to Select the Right Shoes For Nurses

Thankfully, the nursing industry has recognized that every foot is different and accommodating the wide array of feet on the market isn’t just available in speciality stores – you’ll find options regardless of where you go.
Choosing the good comfortable nursing shoes starts with understanding how your feet work and the type of foot you have.
Generally speaking, there are three types of feet. The flat-foot is a foot that suffers from minimal to no arch within the foot. Those suffering with flat-feet are also chronic sufferers of over-extension of the foot, causing an inward rolling sensation that can lead to multiple injuries or ailments.
Finding a shoe that offers support and cushioning, but does not put pressure on the arch is important. Many times people purchase shoes with a predetermined arch, causing excessive pressure to be placed where the natural arch would have been.
This can cause pain, discomfort or worsening physical problems with continued use.

Finally, the final type of foot is a high-arch. This is an overly-compensated arch that is the polar opposite of the flat-foot. The high-arch often creates an overly rigid foot, making proper mobility nearly impossible without the proper support. These feet generally respond well to a higher arch shoe; accommodating the higher structure of the feet.
Regardless of the foot type, it’s important to consider all aspects of your feet when purchasing your shoes. Considering the toes, heel, arch, ankle, arch and sides of the feet are all equally important. That’s why you should have a shoe with a pliable but sturdy sole; allowing fluid movement and impact points; proper, the top of the shoe for wicking away moisture and sweat; adequate spacing for the toes and a supportive, secure ankle to keep the foot in place while moving around.
Remember, your shoes will be worn for excessive periods of time throughout the day, keeping them comfortable is the easiest and safest method to avoiding injuries or discomfort throughout the day.
A well-fitting pair of shoes should feel like an extension of the feet – not like a heavy bricks attached to the bottom of your feet.
While shoes might not seem like a vital portion of your uniform, staying in comfortable shoes is important to all components of your career. It affects your body, mind, and even your performance. After all, staying focused and attentive is important for your job; if your body is aching and sore, you’re not as agile as you should be.
Remember, you only have one pair of feet – help them endure the daily impact of your job.
Conclusion
The good news is that there are several different styles of shoes that have been designed specifically to protect and comfort your feet. They will provide you comfort through the duration of your long shifts. The trick is to find the perfect shoe for your feet.
Above is a list of the most comfortable nursing shoes on the market to help you find the one that is best for you.
Top Rated Comfortable Nursing Shoes
# | Preview | Product | Rating | Price | |
---|---|---|---|---|---|
1 |
![]() |
STQ Women's Slip On Walking Shoes Breathable... | $33.98 | Buy on Amazon | |
2 |
![]() |
DierCosy Nursing Shoes for Women Black Slip on... | $28.99 | Buy on Amazon | |
3 |
![]() |
Feetmat Womens All Black Sneakers Ultra... | $29.99 | Buy on Amazon | |
4 |
![]() |
Skechers for Work Women's Ghenter Bronaugh Work... | $46.96 | Buy on Amazon | |
5 |
![]() |
Crocs Women's Neria Pro II Graphic Clog | Slip... | $32.95 | Buy on Amazon |
I’m wondering what other people think about their nursing shoes. Tell me about your experience in the comments below.
Also, We have compiled a comprehensive Guide to Best Shoes for Nurses for you, don’t forget to check it out.
Last update on 2019-12-09 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
This product was presentation was made with AAWP plugin.