Feet aching at the end of a long shift? You’re not alone! To help keep you pain-free, we put together this list of the best shoes for doctors, surgeons, and med school students who are on their feet a lot. We carefully vetted each shoe based on healthcare staff feedback and testimonials.
Doctor Shoes Overview
Dr. Scholl’s Dynamo
Dr. Scholl's Shoes Women's Dynamo Work Shoe
Best Shoe For: A doctor or nurse who is not necessarily always on his or her feet but is up and seated many times throughout the day. The break-in time can be difficult, but the result is a comfortable pair of shoes that last.
Dr. Scholl is a well-trusted name in the world of shoes for doctors, and their work shoes are just as often worn as much of their other product lines.
Made of 100% imported leather and a rubber sole, this shoe is oil-resistant and slip-resistant, two aspects needed in a very busy hospital environment.
They come with a 2-inch heel if you want to add that extra height to your shoe. A large heel and small gap between the toe/ball of the foot and the heel means a lot of the rubber sole is always in contact with the floor.
Utilizing Memory Foam Cool Fit and an anti-compression insole means that the more you wear the shoe, the more it conforms to your feet, giving you a comfortable experience.
What we like:
- Slip-on – no need to deal with laces
- Full shoe back to keep the shoe on the foot at all times
- Stain resistant and easy to clean after accidental spills
- Decent heel height
What we don’t like
- Not too much style or design
- Only 1 color available – black
- Can take awhile to break in
Top Feature: 100% imported leather
Allbirds Tree Dasher 2
Allbirds is becoming a household name seemingly overnight and is best known for their shoes created by natural, renewable resources. Their shoes range from casual walking shoes to running shoes and are all sleek and seamless. These Tree Dashers by Allbirds, are made from knitted eucalyptus trees, have a midsole that is carbon negative green EVA, and features Merino wool heel cushioning.
For those who are less concerned about the carbon footprint of their shoes, what this all boils down to for you as a wearer is that these shoes are just downright comfortable and look great!
These sneakers are great for doctors and nurses because they are neutral support, meaning that they can be worn for long periods of time without any foot pain. They are also machine washable, so you don’t need to worry about your shoes if there are any accidents or spills on the job! They made our list this year for the best tennis shoes for nurses, as well.
What we like:
- Machine washable
- Neutral support
- Breathable fabric minimizes odors
- Can be worn sock-less for casual wear
What we don’t like:
- The fiber knit can get snagged quite easily
- Not really created for rougher terrain
Top Feature: Machine washable
Allbirds Tree Dashers 2
Hoka One One Bondi 8
Like ’em or hate ’em, Hoka One One is here to stay – especially for those in the healthcare field. With plenty of cushion – and an update to a more lightweight foam, you can now enjoy a lighter pair of sneakers that feel like you’re walking or standing on a cloud.
This Reddit user says that the Hoka One One are by far the most popular footwear for those in the healthcare field today:
What we like:
- Extremely stable
- Lightweight EVA midsole
- New mesh upper allows breathability
- Neutral support
What we don’t like:
- Extremely expensive for working shoes
- The upper feels a bit less comfortable than previous versions of the Bondi
Top Feature: Lightweight cushioning
Merrell Encore Gust
Merrell Men's Encore Gust Slip-On Shoe
Another popular choice among doctors and surgeons, the Merrell Encore Gust is a leather slip-on design with a grippy rubber sole.
Merrell Encore Gust tends to be a solid choice among male doctors who are looking for a slip-on clog design but find the Dansko and Sanitas clogs as too “feminine.” These slip ons have rubber, grippy soles that help to keep you from slipping on any spills and they are the comfort equivalent of wearing loafers all day.
But don’t take our word for it, check out this Reddit user’s review on the Merrell Encore Gust and how it helped to get rid of his plantar fasciitis.
What we like:
- 100% full grain leather
- Padded collar prevents chafing
- Breathability prevents foot odor
What we don’t like:
- Leather means a prolonged “break in” period
- Runs narrow (avoid if you have wide feet)
Top Feature: Feels like a loafer
Reebok Flexagon Force 3 Trainer
Reebok is known for their sports shoes, so it comes as no surprise that we decided to list this pair of Flexagon Force Training shoes in our best tennis shoes for doctors category. Unlike Allbirds, you’re not going to see a lot of natural materials or carbon-negative resources utilized in the making of these shoes.
While not as environmentally-friendly, these shoes make a great, comfortable sneaker for doctors and healthcare workers. These Flexagon sneakers are breathable and contain a shock-absorbing memory foam sockliner and midsole cushioning.
What we like:
- Affordable price
- Breathable mesh upper
- Sleek design with many color options
What we don’t like:
- Many customers say they run small
- The insole is somewhat hard
Top Feature: Sporty design
Reebok Flexagon Force Trainers
Breathable and shock-absorbing sneakers that come at an affordable price.
Dr. Scholl’s Men’s Winder II
Dr. Scholl's Men's Winder Loafer
Best Shoe For: A doctor or nurse who wants to keep a balance between form and function. This shoe hits both factors with decent style while also maintaining functionality of stain resistance and a good anti-slip sole.
This shoe has many of the same aspects as the Woman’s Dynamo, including 100% imported leather and a synthetic sole for both oil-resistance and slip-resistance, making them among the best shoes for healthcare workers.
Their patented Lock Step Outsole ensures SATRA TM63 and TM144 standards are met, which may be required in certain medical facilities.
A little more stylish as a men’s shoe than the Woman’s Dynamo, this shoe has a very handy slip-on system with elastic pieces around the mouth of the shoe to ensure ease of slip-on and removal.
Inner features include a Memory Foam Cool Fit and anti-compression insole but also comes with a Dri-Lex moisture-wicking lining. An Aegis Microbe Shield is also included to help control odor, which can be helpful after long days of wear in the hospital.
What we like:
- Very easy slip-on system
- A full heel of the shoe means it stays in place when moving around
- Dri-Lex moisture-wicking lining to control odor
- Excellent tread design to prevent slipping
What we don’t like:
- Leather can take some time to wear-in
- Possible blisters at the top of the heel from the shoe rubbing
Top Feature: Slip-resistant certified
Skechers for Work Men’s Cottonwood
Skechers for Work Men's Cottonwood Slip Resistant Loafers
Best Shoe For: The doctor on-the-go who wants to evoke a young and sporty look. These are great shoes for doctors with long-term use and comfort in mind.
The Cottonwood Slip-on is 100% imported leather and comes with a rubber slip-resistant traction outsole. In layman’s terms, this shoe thrives in wet, slippery conditions while also being one of the most comfortable shoes for doctors.
Designed as a slip-on cleat style, this shoe gives off a very casual look while still maintaining the functionality of a work shoe. Dual side stretch fabric makes for easy slip-on and slip-off and keeps the front of the shoe comfortable.
A soft fabric lining for breathability is included as well as a removable comfort insole for extra cushioning for those long days on your feet.
What we like:
- Dual side stretch fabric
- Shock-absorbing midsole
- Quick and easy slip-on style
- A large area of the tread design for floor stability
What we don’t like:
- Only one color available, black
Top Feature: Easy slip on
Skechers Women’s Work Sure Track
Skechers Women's Safety Shoes Work
Best Shoe For: An ER doctor or nurse who is always on the move and needs a good casual shoe to keep up with the pace. This shoe covers all the necessary needs of a busy hospital and more.
As with the men’s Skechers shoe, this is a leather upper with a slip-resistant rubber outsole and is an excellent hospital shoe for doctors.
The leather upper is liquid resistant and gives these shoes a professional and polished appearance. The rubber sole is an electrical hazard safe design, safe tested for ASTM F2412-05 standards and had been tested for ASTM F1677-96 Mark II to meet or exceed a .5 coefficient on wet and oily surfaces. This makes these shoes perfect for any healthcare setting.
This shoe comes in a wonderful slip-on style with a convenient heel pull-on loop. The style is a little more casual than the previous men’s Skechers shoe, not being a runner or a dress shoe but falling in a comfortable in-between style.
A removable insole is included with a memory foam topper for maximum comfort and a soft fabric collar and shoe lining means your feet will stay comfortable and blister-free.
What we like:
- Casual style that is not too sporty and not too dressy
- Available in both black and white
- 1-inch integrated heel
- Large sole area for max contact with the floor
What we don’t like:
- Relaxed fit can be considered too wide
- Not as breathable as some shoes
Top Feature: Memory foam topper makes them super comfortable
Adidas Ultraboost
adidas Women's Ultraboost 21 Running Shoe
Some of the highest-recommended sneakers worn by doctors and residents.
The Adidas Ultraboost is a top pick for doctors looking to wear running shoes over clog/mule designs. Described as “walking on clouds,” these running shoes keep your feet feeling fresh while standing all day.
This Redditor describes these sneakers as being “the most comfortable shoes I have ever worn.”
What we like:
- Rubber sole prevents slipping
- Made with recycled material
- Performance sneaker built for runners
What we don’t like:
- On the pricey side
- Don’t come in wide sizes
Top Feature: Best performance running shoe
Calzuro Clog
CALZURO Classic Autoclavable Clog Without Holes
Best Shoe For: An OR nurse or surgeon where being sanitary is an important factor. Insoles can be used if you have bad arches, but the shoe itself is comfortable for those long operations or for running around a busy ER ward.
There is something to be said for a solid one-piece clog, especially given their usefulness in environments such as hospitals. Calzuro delivers expectation in spades with these clogs – a tidy and simple shoe available in 13 different colors allows doctors to fit a bit of their own personal style and personality in their wardrobe.
Italian-made using rubber, they are completely latex free and have anti-static protection. These shoes are designed with an anti-slip sole and a decent amount of shoe to floor contact, meaning you won’t be slipping on those hard-to-see wet spots.
An additional heel strap kit is also available if you are uncomfortable having a completely open heel or just want to be sure of the clog staying on your feet in active circumstances.
As these doctor shoes are entirely made of rubber, they can be sterilized in an autoclave without fear of damage and are also fully machine washable and can be disinfected with bleach, which is perfect for those hospital environments.
These clogs have also graced our list for the 12 Best Shoes for Surgeons recommended by actual surgeons.
What we like:
- 13 amazing colors
- Simple design
- Very easy put on and removal
- 1.5-inch heel to help prevent fatigue
What we don’t like:
- Can be tight for wider feet
- Can not be worn in over time
- The open heel can be a hazard, but heel strap is available separate
Top Feature: Can be easily sterilized in autoclave
Related: Our Favorite Books for Doctors
Dansko Women’s Pro Xp Mule
Dansko XP 2.0 Clogs for Women
Best Shoe For: A doctor on-the-go who wants to puts a priority on comfort. These shoes are made for walking in all day and maintains a timeless style.
Dansko has been a name of quality from Denmark in the shoe world since the ’90s The Mule is like the name sounds, ready for work and has the ability to do it in style and comfort!
While Dansko can be a little more expensive than some other shoes for doctors on this list, the quality of what you have on your feet tends to speak for itself. A 100% leather upper and a full rubber sole means it is spill-resistant and easy to keep clean with simply a few wipes.
This is a slip-on shoe with a roomy toe box and an anti-fatigue rocker bottom. The heel has a 2-inch lift to them to help prevent foot fatigue. It has been shown in studies that rocker bottom shoes can help strengthen back muscles, improving the spine’s curve and reducing lower back pain. Learn more about the study here.
A memory foam footbed gives you optimal cushioning and support for your feet while a padded instep provides comfort while you are walking. These mules are also super popular for nurses and are recommended as a top white nursing shoe option among the nursing community.
What we like:
- Simple slip-on design
- Heel for lift
- 21 different colors and patterns for every type of personality
What we don’t like:
- The insole is not removable
- Price is a little higher than other brands
Top Feature: Comes in more than 21 different colors and patterns
Crocs Women’s Neria Pro Clog
Crocs Women's Neria Pro II Embellished Clog
Best Shoe For: Doctors working in a wet or perhaps messy environment. The insole can be cleaned separately from the shoe itself, so you can be sure each portion is cleaned, as needed, for the environment you're working in.
Crocs makes a solid one-piece clog that is good for wet or slick environments, which can be all-too-common in the health profession. The Neria Pro includes an update that allows you to remove and wash the footbed liners. This is a godsend for those who find that their shoes begin to smell as soon as they wear them.
The Neria Pro also made our list among the 5 Best Nurse Crocs in 2024
What we like:
- Waterproof
- Anti-slip tread design
- Removable insole for cleaning
- Moisture-wicking liner
What we don’t like:
- Less ventilation as other models means feet sweat more
Top Feature: Waterproof
Allbirds Tree Runners
We’d be remiss not to mention our second-favorite pair of Allbirds for doctors, which are the Allbirds Tree Runners. Although these sneakers have a bit less stability than you’d find in their Dashers counterparts, they are still an extremely comfortable sneaker that can be worn all day with minimal foot pain.
True to the Allbirds brand, these shoes are made with all natural ingredients including Eucalyptus tree fiber and castor bean. They can be worn with or without socks (although we’d recommend a pair of the Trinos Low Pacers to help minimize foot odor).
What we like:
- Machine washable
- Eco-friendly materials
- Cool minimalist design
- Extremely breathable, reducing odors
What we don’t like:
- Less stability than a performance running sneaker
Top Feature: Can be worn sock-less
Allbirds Tree Runners
Incredibly light and airy natural sneakers made from eucalyptus tree fiber. To top it off, they're machine washable!
Hoka One One Arahi 6
Hoka Women's Arahi 6 Running Shoe
Perfect for overpronators, this shoe corrects your stride and prevents injury!
If you’re a Hoka One One stan but the Bondi sneakers don’t provide enough stability, then the Arahi is a great alternative. This makes the Arahi 6 a great sneaker for overpronators who need that extra bit of support.
With a rubber outsole, you should benefit from fewer slips. Keep in mind that Hoka One One offers a 30-day return, even if you have worn the sneakers outside. This is a really generous return policy that I think makes it worth the investment if you are at all interested in these shoes.
What we like:
- Good for over pronation
- Rubber outsole prevents slips
- Generous refund policy from the manufacturer
What we don’t like:
- Expensive (like all Hokas)
Top Feature: Lightweight but still includes some light stability
Best Shoes for Doctors Buying Guide + Tips
When it comes to buying these best shoes for doctors, each individual is unique and what may be extremely comfortable for one person can be excruciating and blister-forming for another. That being said, there are some standard guidelines that can be helpful for doctors buying shoes for their specific working environment:
Comfort
This should be at the top of anyone’s list who is on their feet all day. We did our best to provide you with shoes that prioritize comfort first without sacrificing too much on appearance. When comfort is your #1 priority, we definitely recommend Allbirds Tree Runners.
Breathability
It is very important for your shoes to be able to breathe throughout the day so that your feet do not breed those bad-smelling bacteria.
Durability
You don’t want to be buying shoes every few months, so you want to be sure your shoes can take a beating for an extended period of time (especially when it comes to shoes for surgeons). Someone who is on their feet all day hitting their daily steps should still be able to get more than 6 months of use out of a pair of shoes.
Support
Standing for long periods or walking and running often means that your feet need a little help in the means of support. If you are not getting the support you need for your feet, then there will be difficulties in the long-run. There are many studies that show proper orthotics or shoes that provide proper support can help relieve lower back pain.
When it comes to supportive doctor shoes, you really can’t go wrong with anything in the Dr. Scholl’s category.
Protection
Spills, chemicals, and bodily fluids can all find ways to land on your shoes. Shoes that are stain-resistant and waterproof will be shoes that will actually last.
In conclusion, the best shoes for doctors are out there that will give you the functionality and support that your feet need to do the job. Be sure that when you are putting together your shopping cart, you take into account comfort, breathability, durability, support, and protection!
Best Shoes for Doctors FAQ
What kind of shoes are best for doctors?
The Best Clog for Doctors: Calzuro Autoclavable Clog
The Best Sneakers for Doctors: Allbirds Tree Dashers
The Best Slip On Shoe for Doctors: Dr. Scholl’s Winder II
The Best Slip-Resistant Shoe for Doctors: Skechers Work Sure Track
What are the best shoes for surgery rotation?
For those who prefer clogs, you can opt for the Calzuro Clog or the Dansko XP and for sneakers, you can wear the Allbirds Tree Dashers or Adidas Ultraboost.
What are the best professional shoes for medical students?
You can opt for your favorite pair of dress shoes + orthotics for wards, such as Clarks Tilden paired with the Dr. Scholl’s orthotic inserts.
In Conclusion
We hope you enjoyed this list of the best shoes for doctors. Choosing between clogs, mules, slip-ons, or sneakers may be a matter of preference, so we hope you were able to find the best pair of doctor shoes for your needs.
We continue to recommend the Allbirds, for those who are looking for the best sneakers for doctors, because they are comfortable, are the best sneakers for standing all day, and are good for the environment.
