The best Nike shoes for nurses are the ones that allow you to do your job comfortably, safely, and efficiently. Your best option will vary depending on your preferences and foot needs.
We’ve put together a list of the best Nike nursing shoes, including comfortable Nike shoes for standing all day. Our top choice for nurses is the Nike Air Zoom, thanks to its superior cushioning and overall comfort.
Imagine running shoes so comfortable, they can be worn all day without any foot pain. The Nike Air Zoom are the perfect blend of support and shock absorption.
Nike Air Zoom
These white Nike nurse shoes are great for professional environments. They’re some of the best Nike shoes for nursing, even having made our list of the best tennis shoes for nurses. Available in 20 colors and styles, these shoes combined cushioned support with a responsive running design. The forefoot air bag also helps to prevent injury in the workplace.
- Available in 20 colors and patterns, including pure white
- React foam midsole cushions every step for all-day comfort
- Air cushion conserves energy as you toe off
- Great for both standing and walking long distances
- Lightweight, foot-hugging mesh upper that fits like a glove
Imagine running shoes so comfortable, they can be worn all day without any foot pain. The Nike Air Zoom are the perfect blend of support and shock absorption.
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Nike Flex
The Nike Flex is a powerful Nike nursing shoe that allows for natural flexibility. If you prefer the feel of your foot flexing against the ground, this is the option for you. The knit upper hugs the foot like a sock, and the no-sew overlay is sturdier than seams. Meanwhile, the durable midsole protects the foot without providing excess cushioning.
- Available in 12 different colors and patterns
- Outsole flex grooves allow for natural flexing of the foot
- Durable no-sew fabric overlay instead of seams
- Knit fabric hugs the upper foot like a sock
- Rounded heel allows for an extended range of motion
These sneakers stretch with your foot and fit like a sock while also offering enough support to keep your feet pain-free standing all day.
Nike Free RN Flyknit
The Flyknit running shoes are designed for trail running, but they also provide great support for nurses on the go. The design is flexible and comfortable, great for professionals and casual athletes. A single-seam upper allows the fabric to fit the foot like a glove. As you move, the fabric contracts and expands to meet your needs. Fresh air flows to your feet with every step.
- Available in ten different colors
- One-seam upper creates a sock-like fit
- Each step delivers fresh air to the foot
- Flexible fit that conforms to the foot’s natural shape
- Great for nurses who want a more natural feel in their footwear
Strong enough for the trails or a 12-hour shift, these Nike FlyKnit sneakers are breathable and lightweight.
Nike Metcon
The Nike Metcon shoes have a sole crafted from rubber and synthetic material. They’re designed for a variety of athletic activities, including a removable heel insert that provides extra lift. The outsole has directional traction that extends up the sides, a vital component for nurses working in slippery environments.
A lightweight texture on top increases overall durability, making these Metcons among the best Nike shoes for nurses.
- Available in four color combinations
- High-traction outsole includes grooves on the sides for slippery environments
- Removable heel insert provides lifts when working out or standing for long periods
- Extra durability in the textured upper
- Super stable and comfortable shoe
A rubber outsole and heel lift provides additional traction and support for athletes, but also makes for great slip-proof and stability shoes for nurses.
Nike Tanjun
The lightweight and breezy design of the Tanjun makes these the most comfortable Nike shoes for nursing. They’re supportive enough to make our list of the best white nursing shoes on the market. The breathable upper protects the foot while preventing you from overheating during a long shift. Both the midsole and outsole are crafted from foam, so the cushioning is unparalleled.
- Available in 30 colors and styles
- Made completely from synthetic materials
- Breathable upper material prevents overheating
- Foam midsole and outsole provide extended cushioning
- More lightweight than rubber and leather designs
Supremely comfortable and stylish white nursing shoes from Nike.
Related: The 15 Best Shoes for Male Nurses
Nike Free TR
The Free TR is an athletic trainer built for runners. The shoes are excellent Nike shoe for nurses who are often moving from place to place at high speeds. The mesh fabric is 3D printed to allow extra breathability and flexibility. By combining the Flywire cables with the laces, you can lock the shoe to your midfoot and get a super comfortable ride.
- Available in 7 color combinations
- Synthetic sole with a one-inch platform
- 3D printed mesh increases flexibility and breathability
- Flywire lacing system locks the shoe to the foot for extra support
- Interior bootie fits like a sock
Comfortable and attractive gymnastic sneakers made for movement.
Nike Air Max Torch
The Air Max Torch is a versatile Nike nursing shoe with a lightweight composition. The toe box is roomy enough for the toes to splay naturally, and the upper helps lock the foot in place. The traction is reliable on slippery surfaces both indoors and outdoors. There is also good impact protection, which might make these a preferable choice for nurses who often face workplace hazards.
- Available in 13 colors and styles
- Lightweight composition with a versatile design
- Supportive and comfortable upper that allows the toes to splay naturally
- Provides reliable traction on slippery and wet surfaces
- Provides good impact protection, so it’s ideal if you work with heavy objects
A versatile and lightweight shoe for nurses that features reliable traction and support.
Nike Quest
The Nike Quest is a stylish running shoe available in your choice of color combinations. The mesh upper provides breathability, while the lace-up front allows for a secure fit. This is the most affordable shoe in our list of the best Nike shoes for nurses, yet it’s durable enough to last for several years. Though it provides some support, it’s best for those who are often moving during their shift.
- Supportive and affordable shoe with a roomy toe box
- Cushioning feels like walking on the air
- Durable enough to last through many long shifts
- Best for nurses who spend most of their shift walking or moving
A super affordable and durable running shoe that makes a great investment in your nursing wardrobe.
Nike In-Season
The Nike In-Season uses a gum rubber sole for extra traction. Inside the shoe, the foam cushioning provides arch support, making it good for nurses with high arches. The molded multidirectional outsoles allow extra traction no matter where you are. A memory foam sock liner provides additional cushioning and support.
- Available in 11 color combinations
- Gum rubber sole with multidirectional grooves provides great traction
- Foam cushioning absorbs the shock of each step
- Memory foam sock liner offers additional support during long shifts
- Great arch support for individuals with high arches
It's lightweight, sturdy and has a deep, comfortable footbed for premium impact protection and energy return throughout the workout.
Nike Revolution
The Nike Revolution shoes are built using lightweight materials and soft interior foam. The knit textile upper provides breathable support. Meanwhile, the reinforced heel and zero-sew overlays increase the durability, so the shoes will last for ages. The outsole is flexible but has strategically placed grooves that allow for maximum traction. These sneakers also come in wide options and made our list of the best nursing shoes for wide feet.
- Available in 18 colors and styles
- Synthetic, flexible sole with high-traction grooves built in
- Soft foam midsole cushions each step
- Reinforced heel and zero-stitch overlays increase overall durability
- Lightweight materials help reduce fatigue during long shifts
Nike running shoes that come in wide sizing that you can wear both in the hospital as well as out on a run!
Nike Air Max Oketo
The Air Max Oketo is the best Nike shoes for nurses looking for a minimalist design. It combines a synthetic sole with a mesh upper and additional synthetic overlays. The overlays increase durability and protection, while the mesh allows for breathability. Each shoe is designed with a Max Air unit in the sole, which cushions your step using air. The foam midsole and outsole provide a vital combination of cushioning and traction.
- Available in 7 color combinations
- Lightweight synthetic materials with a high-traction sole
- Minimalist upper with breathable mesh and durable overlays
- Max Air cushioning unit absorbs shock with every step
The Air Max Oketo is the best Nike shoes for nurses looking for a minimalist design
Nike Downshifter
The Downshifter shoes are designed for high-performance runners. They work well for high-performance nurses, too! The shoes come with breathable mesh in the forefoot, so your feet stay cool during the run. The closed heel and midfoot provide support and structuring. Meanwhile, the Phylon midsole creates a flexible cushioned experience.
- Available in 16 color combinations
- Breathable mesh at the forefoot delivers fresh air
- Closed heel and midfoot provide locked-in support
- Full-length cushioned midsole allows for a flexible, comfortable ride
- Outsole flex grooves let your feet move in their natural positions
Keep your feet cool and comfortable during your long shift with the Nike Women's Downshifter sneaker.
Buying Guide for Picking the Best Nike Shoes for Nurses
There are a variety of factors to keep in mind when deciding on the Nike nursing shoes that work best for you. As a nurse, you’ll need to consider certain things that the average athlete probably wouldn’t.
The right shoe will make your work life easier – It should provide the support you need, be easy to maintain, and be durable enough to last through multiple long shifts.
Special Foot Needs
Certain foot conditions can make it difficult to stand or walk during long shifts. In addition, improper footwear can often exacerbate the pain and imbalance of these workplace conditions. For this reason, if you have a foot condition, you should prioritize shoes that are built for it.
Some examples would be plantar fasciitis, bunions, Achilles tendinitis, or high arches. Let’s take a look at some of the features you might want in a support shoe.
Arch Support
Nurses with high arches often become fatigued with too much standing. The problem with high arches is that the midfoot doesn’t rest on the ground. This means that there’s extra strain in your heel and toe, instead of the weight being evenly distributed along the foot.
Shoes like the Nike In-Season have extra arch support, so if you’re looking for Nike shoes with good arch support, you can’t go wrong with these! Midfoot arch support helps to cradle your arches so that your weight can be distributed normally. It eases the pain at different pressure points, and it may help prevent you from developing inflammation.
It's lightweight, sturdy and has a deep, comfortable footbed for premium impact protection and energy return throughout the workout.
Heel Support
There are a few different types of heel support. The one that works for you will vary depending on your needs.
Some shoes have deep heel cups that cradle the heel. These are good for keeping your stride steady. Other shoes have a curved heel, which allows you to use your foot’s natural motion. Still others might have a raised or padded heel, which can help to ease the pain from plantar fasciitis.
The heel hits the ground first when you run. Because of this, shock absorbers are also good for those who experience joint pain and overall body fatigue.
Rollbar
A rollbar is built for people who have a tendency to overpronate. This means that the foot rolls outward with your stride instead of remaining straight. It’s more common in individuals with flat feet. Because of this, you might think of a rollbar as the opposite of arch support. If you suffer from overpronation or flat feet, take a look at our top 16 Nursing Shoes for Flat Feet.
Roomy Toe Box
For those with wider feet, a roomy toe box is a must. It’s important that your toes have room to spread, instead of being pinched or crushed. If your toes are constantly crushed into a small space, you’ll be more likely to develop bunions and gait issues.
If you know that your feet are on the wider side, make sure you check the sizing guidance from the manufacturer. Look for shoes that are built for people with wider feet.
Cushioning
You definitely want cushioning if you’re going to be on your feet for eight or more hours at a time. The question is, how much? Different people have different cushioning preferences. You might want to feel like you’re walking on a cloud, or you might want a more natural sensation.
Some shoes have air cushions, which allow for a springier step. Some have several layers of foam and gel technology, which provides extra support for your joints. Some have strategic cushioning in the heel or forefoot without cushioning the entire midsole length.
Ease of Cleaning
Nike medical shoes should be easy to clean. Shoes like the Nike Metcon can be wiped down with a sanitary wipe between patients. When shoes are made from textiles or mesh, they might be a little more difficult to clean during your shift.
A rubber outsole and heel lift provides additional traction and support for athletes, but also makes for great slip-proof and stability shoes for nurses.
Some shoes might be autoclavable. This means that they can be placed into an industrial autoclave to be sanitized. However, Nike’s athletic shoes are unlikely to meet this requirement. They aren’t designed specifically with healthcare professionals in mind, so there’s no reason for the designers to prioritize an autoclavable option.
Some shoes may be machine washable. This is much more common with Nike’s designs. Whether you’re getting home from a long shift or coming back from a run through the mud, it’s helpful to be able to clean your shoes. Shoe listings will usually tell you how the product needs to be cleaned, including information about whether it is machine washable.
Waterproof
Some Nike healthcare shoes are waterproof, which can be extremely helpful if you work in a messy environment. Breathable options like the Nike Downshifter are often not waterproof, but there may be exceptions. An ideal shoe is one that allows for fresh air without your feet becoming soaked if it rains.
Keep your feet cool and comfortable during your long shift with the Nike Women's Downshifter sneaker.
Waterproof shoes are often a matter of sanitation for nurses. You’re exposed to a lot of fluids over the course of the day, and you want to make sure they don’t come into contact with your skin. That said, waterproofing will matter more to nurses who work in higher-risk environments. It will also matter to nurses who work outdoors.
Leather
Leather is popular because it is a waterproof material. Genuine leather is very expensive, and Nike doesn’t often use it. But there are synthetic leather materials that have many of the same properties as genuine leather. If you’re looking for this material, then check out our favorite white leather nursing shoes. These synthetics also have the bonus of being vegan.
Durability
As a nurse, you’ll be working long shifts. You’ll either be on your feet or walking around for most of the night. If you’re going to wear these shoes for hundreds of hours every month, you want to make sure they’re durable. Not only should they withstand exterior wear and tear, but they should also remain comfortable after they’re “broken in.”
Durable shoes typically include long-lasting materials that are fitted together in a way that resists damage. The Nike Revolution is an example of a durable shoe, featuring no-sew fabric overlays that protect it against wear and tear. These prevent the tearing that you often see in the seams of athletic shoe uppers.
Nike running shoes that come in wide sizing that you can wear both in the hospital as well as out on a run!
Outsole Design
The outsole must be durable enough to be worn for hours every week. But it must also provide enough traction for you to avoid slipping on wet and slick floors. Hospital floors are dangerous if you don’t have the proper traction.
Make sure that your outsoles are built with high-traction materials like rubber. There are some synthetic outsoles that have high-traction performance as well. These tend to be lighter weight than rubber while retaining the same traction. Look for traction tests to see if the shoe has been certified as slip-resistant.
Working Environment
Your working environment makes a difference. Trauma nurses have a very different job from nurses at pediatric clinics, for example. Your shoes should reflect the needs of your specific job.
Shoes like the Nike Air Max Torch provide extra impact protection, so they’re good if you’re in a high-risk environment.
A versatile and lightweight shoe for nurses that features reliable traction and support.
You’ll also want protective shoes if you often work around sharp objects, or if you wheel medical equipment around. Surgeons, for example, may want to look at this list of surgeon shoes for their specialty. A workplace injury due to improper footwear is not something anyone wants. It could even create liability issues for your supervisor.
Regulations
Different workplaces have different regulations. Depending on the workplace, you might need to get shoes that are available in pure white, like the Nike Air Zoom model. Other spaces might allow you the freedom to choose whatever color you want.
Imagine running shoes so comfortable, they can be worn all day without any foot pain. The Nike Air Zoom are the perfect blend of support and shock absorption.
Make sure you adhere to the specific regulations laid out by your supervisor. No matter where you work, you should have close-toed shoes that support your feet and protect you from potential injury. This is actually outlined in OSHA compliance procedures. Regulations are there for a reason, and sticking to them is important.
Nike Alternatives for Nurses
Didn’t find a pair of Nikes that speak to you? Thankfully, there are plenty of other nurse-recommended brands out there. For those looking for nursing shoes beyond Nike, we recommend you start with these brands:
Allbirds
The Allbirds Tree Dasher as well as the Allbirds Tree Runner are among our top picks for those looking for a super comfortable Nike sneaker alternative. These shoes are carbon neutral and are made from all natural ingredients. When they get dirty, you can simply follow the company instructions for machine washing.
Super comfy, eco-friendly sneakers for doctors, med students, and nursing students! Upgrades to the original Tree Dasher includes an angular heel for softening impact. Pairs perfectly with Trino Sprinters low socks.
Reebok
Reebok is a popular choice among nurses for their cross training sneaker options. For those who are new to Reebok, you can’t go wrong with the Reebok Flexagon line for cross trainers that feature traction and rubber outsoles.
Breathable and shock-absorbing sneakers that come at an affordable price.
Brooks
Brooks is known for their high-quality running shoes, which means they fare well among healthcare workers who are on their feet all day. If you’re new to Brooks running shoes, you can start with the Brooks Ghost or the Brooks Glycerin.
A neutral shoe with tons of cushioning and support that will keep your feet feeling good after a long shift.
Find more of our favorites in our Guide: Best Brooks Shoes for Nurses
Nike Nursing Shoes FAQ
Which Nikes are best for standing on your feet all day?
Most nurses recommend the Nike Air Zoom for long shifts, because it has the support needed for standing on your feet all day.
Are running shoes good for nurses?
Running shoes make great footwear for nurses, as they provide the support and comfort for standing on your feet all day.
Do Nike sneakers run small?
Nike shoes are known to run small, so if you are between sizes, we recommend you sizing up.
Conclusion
Nike has been making comfortable, supportive athletic shoes for years. The best Nike shoes for nurses can stand up to long wear and stay clean throughout your shift. The right ones for you will vary depending on your preferences and professional needs.
Our top pick overall is the Air Zoom. These synthetic shoes come with a variety of different colors. They’re lightweight, comfortable, and include a fitsole sockliner for extra support.
Imagine running shoes so comfortable, they can be worn all day without any foot pain. The Nike Air Zoom are the perfect blend of support and shock absorption.
As long as you take your needs and budget into account when making your decision, you shouldn’t have trouble finding a Nike shoe that works for your nursing career.