hoka one one nurse shoes

The 17 Best Orthopedic Nursing Shoes [ULTIMATE SHOE GUIDE]

Written by: Kristine Thorndyke

When you’re dealing with foot pain and overall fatigue, orthopedic nursing shoes might be the best decision you ever make.  These are shoes designed to provide comfort and support.  The best shoes for standing all day are ones that give your body the relief you deserve.

Our top pick for the best orthopedic nurse shoes is the Vionic Walker Sneaker.  It features a removable mesh-wrapped footbed, a high-performance non-skid sole, and sizes in multiple widths.

Our Top Pick
Vionic Women's Walker Classic Shoes Vionic Women's Walker Classic Shoes
5.0
$120.00 $69.99

These walkers are extremely durable, made with a full-grain leather upper and breathable mesh liner to keep your feet cool and dry throughout your shift.

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02/09/2025 08:04 am GMT

We’ve reviewed our other top orthopedic nursing shoes recommendations, along with key information on picking the right orthopedic nursing shoes for you.

Still in nursing school? Start Here

The 16 Best Orthopedic Nurse Shoes

Vionic Walker

These are another great pair of orthopedic nursing shoes from Vionic, especially if you’re looking for a more sturdy design.  The concealed support in all Vionic professional shoes helps reduce shock and fatigue.  The American Podiatric Medical Association has given the technology their seal of acceptance. Wide feet nurses can also rejoice, as these walkers also come in wide sizes! If you need wide-width shoes, specifically, check out our 18 Best Nursing Shoes for Wide Feet.

  • Available in 8 colors
  • APMA Seal of Acceptance recipient
  • Concealed 1/2-inch elevation allows smooth transitions through each stride
  • Active Motion System conserves energy and reduces joint pressure
  • Removable cloth-covered foam footbed
Best Overall
Vionic Women's Walker Classic Shoes Vionic Women's Walker Classic Shoes
5.0
$120.00 $69.99

These walkers are extremely durable, made with a full-grain leather upper and breathable mesh liner to keep your feet cool and dry throughout your shift.

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02/09/2025 08:04 am GMT

Vionic Julianna Pro Slip On Sneaker

This is our top pick for the best orthopedic shoes for nurses.  The lightweight slip-on design makes it easy to get ready and go, while the removable foam footbed provides extra support.  The twin gore panels allow fresh air to cool your feet with every step, while the soles have been proven slip-resistant in perilous conditions.

  • Available in 2 colors and 2 different widths
  • Removable supportive footbed can accommodate custom orthotics
  • Mesh paneling increases breathability for all-day comfort
  • Easily cleaned using a damp cloth and air drying
  • Made our list of the best nurse shoes for plantar fasciitis
Vionic Julianna Pro Slip On Sneaker Vionic Julianna Pro Slip On Sneaker
4.0

These orthopedic nursing shoes are non-slip, airy, and even come in wide-width! 

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Asics Gel Venture

These orthopedic sneakers are built not just for standing all day, but also for running in style.  The lightweight and flexible cushioning provides relief along the entire foot.  This is a shoe that provides neutral support and support for underpronators, The heel absorbs shock and helps you retain energy through every stride.

  • Available in 19 different color combinations
  • Orthopedic design meant to support runners
  • Great for neutral and underpronators
  • Lightweight and flexible cushioning with a non-slip sole
  • Made our list of the best shoes for male nurses

ASICS Women's Gel-Venture 8 Running Shoes ASICS Women's Gel-Venture 8 Running Shoes
4.0
$70.00 $45.90

These running shoes come in wide sizes and fit neutral foot types.

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02/09/2025 08:04 am GMT

Alegria Paloma

These beautiful shoes are unlike anything else on the list of orthopedic nursing shoes.  They have a texture and silhouette that is truly unique.  Each pair is hand-stitched and crafted from genuine leather.  The hook-and-loop closure can be adjusted to fit your foot, with every pair sporting unique designs.

  • Available in 53 different colors
  • Unique, hand-stitched leather shoes
  • Comfortable, supportive suede leather insole
  • Roomy toe box that’s excellent for nurses with bunions
  • Adjustable closure provides a relaxed, snug fit

Alegria Paloma Womens Shoes Alegria Paloma Womens Shoes
4.0

For nurses looking for some fun patterns and designs for their footwear, then look no further than these fun Alegria Paloma flats!

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Orthofeet Walking Shoes

These are shoes made specifically for people with conditions that cause foot pain.  If you have a wider foot because of bunions, if you have pain because of diabetic neuropathy, if your heel is inflamed because of plantar fasciitis – these cushioned and supportive shoes were built for you!

  • Available in 2 colors
  • Extended width for people with plantar fasciitis, diabetes, and bunions
  • Orthopedic shoes designed specifically to relieve heel and foot pain
  • Included orthotic insoles have anatomical arch support
  • Multiple layers of cushioning and support for the joints

Orthofeet Walking Shoes - Perfect for Plantar Fasciitis Orthofeet Walking Shoes - Perfect for Plantar Fasciitis
4.5

Lightweight yet effective walking shoes that support plantar fasciitis, knee pain, and flat feet.

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New Balance 624 Cross Trainer

These are leather orthopedic sneakers designed for fitness training. The flex grooves allow the foot to move as naturally as it normally does, while the cushioning is firm and comforting. They even use ABZORB technology to cushion the impact of every stride.

These cross trainers also made it among our list of the Best New Balance Shoes for Nurses in 2025.

  • Available in black and white
  • Super flexible sole allows for natural movements without sacrificing cushioning
  • Extra shock absorption technology to provide comfort and stability
  • Internal shank structures and stabilizes the midsole
  • Relaxing combination of lightweight liner, EVA foam midsole, and EVA footbed

New Balance 624 V2 Casual Comfort Cross Trainer New Balance 624 V2 Casual Comfort Cross Trainer
4.5
$119.93

For a more sleek and professional look, you might appreciate the Cross Trainer.

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02/09/2025 07:54 am GMT

Propet Stability Walker

This orthopedic nursing shoe is made from waterproof leather with a non-skid rubber sole.  The speed-laced closure system lets you tie the shoes fast.  It’s a great choice for nurses on the go.  Keep in mind that sizing for this model tends to run small.

  • Available in 8 different colors
  • Leather construction with a rubber sole
  • Rigid heel counter prevents slipping and promotes stability
  • Speed-laced closure is convenient and quick
  • Removable footbed accommodates custom orthotics

Propét Women's Stability Walker Sneaker Propét Women's Stability Walker Sneaker
4.0
$99.95 $63.73

Slip on this pair of affordable leather sneakers that provide your feet with the stability for long shifts.

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02/09/2025 09:44 am GMT

Brooks Addiction Walker

These are some of the most stabilizing, secure shoes on the market.  They provide excellent slip resistance and support the arches while you stand.  The shoe also prevents overpronation as you walk.  With adaptive DNA cushioning that conforms to your stride, they’re some of the most helpful shoes for overpronators. 

  • Available in three neutral colors
  • Slip-resistant outsole sets the foot in a stable position no matter what
  • Rollbar technology provides arch support to prevent overpronation
  • Best shoes for standing or walking all day
  • Made our list of the 8 best tennis shoes for nurses

Brooks Women's Addiction Walker Shoes Brooks Women's Addiction Walker Shoes
4.5

Best white leather nursing sneakers that can also function as supportive walking shoes.

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OOFOS 00mg

These shoes are designed to help plantar fasciitis sufferers recover after athletic endeavors.  They reduce the pressure on your joints, so they’re great if your back often aches.  They’re bacteria-resistant but can also be cleaned even more because they’re machine washable.

  • Available in black and white
  • Built as athletic recovery footwear for plantar fasciitis sufferer
  • Engineered to reduce stress on the knees, back, and feet
  • Lightweight and minimalist design with excellent support
  • Machine washable and bacteria-resistant

OOFOS 00mg also made our list of the 16 Best Nursing Shoes for Flat Feet

OOFOS Women's OOmg Shoe OOFOS Women's OOmg Shoe
4.5
$180.00

Breathable mesh sneaker that is great for plantar fasciitis and impact absorption.

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02/10/2025 06:58 am GMT

Dansko XP 2.0 Clogs

Many orthopedic shoes for women preach function over fashion, but that’s not the case here! Comfortable and beautiful, these clogs are available in tons of different colors to suit your personal style.  A lightweight foam midsole cushions the impact of each stride, while a removable footbed offers arch stabilizing support.

  • Orthopedic clogs available in 32 colors, prints, and patterns
  • Made completely from leather with a rubber sole
  • Padded collar prevents ankle chafing and cushions heel
  • EVA foam midsole absorbs shock while a removable footbed supports arches
  • All-white version made our list of the best white nursing shoes

See our full list of the best clogs for nurses in 2025.

Dansko Women's XP 2.0 Clogs Dansko Women's XP 2.0 Clogs
5.0
$149.95

Slip into a pair of Dansko XP 2.0 and you'll be amazed by the long-lasting comfort and non-slip rubber outsoles! Available in wide sizes, everyone can enjoy these comfy clogs.

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02/10/2025 07:06 am GMT

Alegria Keli Professional

These synthetic shoes have received a certification of recommendation from the American Podiatric Medical Association.  They feature a removable footbed with significant arch support, plus a padded collar for comfort.  The soles are also slip-resistant, which are perfect for slippery floors during your shift.

  • Available in colors, prints, and patterns
  • American Podiatric Medical Association certified
  • Removable arch supporting footbed
  • Slip-resistant sole for safe movement on slippery hospital floors
  • All-white version made our list of the best white leather nursing shoes

Alegria Women's Keli Leather Shoes Alegria Women's Keli Leather Shoes
4.0
$119.90

For those seeking fun patterns and designs for their clog footwear, then look no further than these fun Alegria Keli leather clogs.

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02/10/2025 06:53 am GMT

QUANTUM Mesh Sneaker

We love these mesh cross trainers for nurses who are seeking out orthopedic footwear that covers a host of issues.

For those with bunions or hammer toes, you can rest assured that your toes have adequate space with a roomy toe box.

These sneakers also feature arch support and posture and alignment support for back pain while on your feet all day.

  • Available in 7 colors
  • Available in medium and wide widths
  • Grippy yet incredibly lightweight
QUANTUM Women's Mesh Fitness Sneaker | KURU Footwear QUANTUM Women's Mesh Fitness Sneaker | KURU Footwear
4.5
$160

Lace up these comfy trainers that feature arch support, extra toe room, and an insole that helps improve alignment and alleviate pain.

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Vionic Brisk Alma Lace-up Sneakers

These cute orthopedic shoes add a pop of color to any outfit.  The concealed supportive footbed hugs the foot and stabilizes the arches with each stride.  A mesh upper increases breathability while the neoprene prevents friction against the ankle.  Also included is a removable EVA liner.

  • Available in 7 bright colors
  • Concealed orthotic footbed supports through every stride
  • Super comfortable and breathable athletic shoes
  • Removable EVA foam footbed with a breathable mesh covering
  • More stylish than most orthopedic shoes for women

Vionic Women's Brisk Alma Lace-Up Sneakers Vionic Women's Brisk Alma Lace-Up Sneakers
$109.99

Another great pair of Vionic sneakers that keep your feet pain-free during long shifts.

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02/10/2025 06:28 am GMT

Hoka One One Bondi Running Shoe

These orthopedic sneakers for women are among the most cushioned shoes on the market. They have a memory foam heel collar, a full-length foam footbed that feels like a cloud, and the mesh material makes the design breathable during long shifts.

The Bondi sneakers made the top of our list of the best HOKA shoes for nurses in 2025. If you like the look and feel of these sneakers, you can have a peek at what other HOKA ONE ONE sneakers made the cut!

  • Available in 15 bright and funky color combinations
  • Mesh construction with a rubber sole
  • Incredibly soft full-length EVA foam footbed
  • Extra memory foam padding around the tongue and heel
  • Breathable training shoes that are great for standing all day

HOKA ONE ONE Bondi 8 Sneakers HOKA ONE ONE Bondi 8 Sneakers
4.5
$169.95

These are some of the most cushioned shoes on the market.

OOFOS Clogs

This is another pair of orthopedic clogs designed for post-exercise recovery.  They provide pain relief for plantar fasciitis.  In addition to functioning as comfortable slippers, they can be professional nursing shoes.

  • Available in three shimmery colors
  • OOfoam absorbs almost 40 percent more impact than traditional foam
  • Patented arch supporting footbed reduces joint pain
  • Built for natural motion and relaxation
  • Machine washable

OOFOS Unisex OOCloog Post Exercise Active Recovery Footwear OOFOS Unisex OOCloog Post Exercise Active Recovery Footwear
4.5
$79.95

A clog designed specifically to combat Plantar Fasciitis - impact absorbing orthopedic foot & heel pain relief.

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02/10/2025 06:17 am GMT

Propet Slip On Sneaker

Amazon product

This is another bright option that will appeal to nurses who love to be colorful.  The mesh upper is breathable but provides support, while the heel counter provides stability.  The heel cushion features perforated EVA foam, and the outsole combines rubber with EVA foam.

  • Available in 11 bright colors
  • Engineered mesh lining is both supportive and breathable
  • Firm heel counter stabilizes your stride
  • Combined rubber and EVA outsole is long-lasting and high-traction
  • High flexibility, removable footbed with extra cushioning

Propét Women's TravelActiv Slip-on Sneaker Propét Women's TravelActiv Slip-on Sneaker
4.5
$74.95 $60.00

Breathable, yet supportive, these slip on sneakers from Propet will keep your feet dry and comfortable while standing all day.

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02/10/2025 07:09 am GMT

Kuru QUANTUM Sneaker

best shoes for nurses

This breathable, mesh orthopedic sneaker is a perfect fit for nurses looking for arch support, extra toe space (for bunions) and alignment support.

These sneakers come in medium and wide-width, so you can rest assured that there is a size to fit your needs.

Choose from a variety of colors and enjoy these sneakers both in the hospital as well as for casual wear out and about!

  • Available in 7 color options
  • 8mm heel drop distributes pressure from heel to forefoot
  • Breathable mesh means cool, dry feet all day
  • Grippy yet lightweight
QUANTUM Women's Mesh Fitness Sneaker | KURU Footwear QUANTUM Women's Mesh Fitness Sneaker | KURU Footwear
4.5
$160

Lace up these comfy trainers that feature arch support, extra toe room, and an insole that helps improve alignment and alleviate pain.

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Tips for Finding the Best Orthopedic Nurse Shoes

Look for Proper Support

The point of orthopedic shoes is to support your foot.  Many people seek out orthopedic footwear because they have a diagnosed health condition, while others just want to stop having so many joint aches at the end of their shifts.

Different foot conditions need different support, though.  The features you seek will vary depending on your feet. Here are a few specific categories and recommendations for those seeking orthopedic nursing shoes: 

Plantar Fasciitis

Plantar fasciitis is a condition that causes inflammation and pain in the heel.  It’s especially bad when you put your heel down.  The condition can often be debilitating!

If you have plantar fasciitis, you need support in the heel.  This typically means a combination of stabilization and shock-absorbing cushioning.  You also need support in the arch to reduce the overall inflammation.

Shoes like the New Balance Cross Trainer have flexible cushioning with shock absorbing capabilities.  Meanwhile, the OOFOS 00mg shoes are specifically designed for plantar fasciitis sufferers to recover after exercise.  They’re a great choice for nurses who want footwear that’s built to help you relax.

If you’re looking for some more options for this condition, check out our 15 picks of the Best Nurse Shoes for Plantar Fasciitis!

OOFOS Women's OOmg Shoe OOFOS Women's OOmg Shoe
4.5
$180.00

Breathable mesh sneaker that is great for plantar fasciitis and impact absorption.

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02/10/2025 06:58 am GMT

Bunions

Bunions occur when the base of the big toe juts out.  They usually happen due to the pressure of ill-fitting shoes over time.  The condition can be painful, and it can also make finding a wide enough pair of shoes difficult.

People with bunions need a roomy toe box to avoid making the condition worse.  Shoes like the Alegria Paloma are manufactured extra-wide to accommodate people who need it, like those with bunions and diabetic neuropathy.

Alegria Paloma Womens Shoes Alegria Paloma Womens Shoes
4.0

For nurses looking for some fun patterns and designs for their footwear, then look no further than these fun Alegria Paloma flats!

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Diabetes

Diabetes is a systemic illness that can wreak havoc on your entire body.  Some diabetes patients suffer nerve damage in their feet, a condition called diabetic neuropathy.

Diabetic neuropathy can lead to ongoing pain, tingling, numbness, and trouble standing.  It’s important to get shoes that can reduce the pressure and discomfort.

The Orthofeet Walking Shoes are made specifically for people with diabetic neuropathy.  Their construction aims to reduce pressure points and allow for easier circulation in the feet.

Orthofeet Walking Shoes - Perfect for Plantar Fasciitis Orthofeet Walking Shoes - Perfect for Plantar Fasciitis
4.5

Lightweight yet effective walking shoes that support plantar fasciitis, knee pain, and flat feet.

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Overpronation

overpronation nurses

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An overpronator is someone whose foot rolls outward when they take a step. In a neutral pronator, the foot distributes weight evenly upon touching the ground.

Overpronation makes your stride less stable, and it could predispose you to injury.  There are many athletic running shoes that help prevent overpronation to reduce the risk of injury.

Stabilizing shoes like the Brooks Addiction Walker can prevent overpronation before it happens.  These shoes keep the foot from rolling, so the person’s weight is distributed correctly each time they take a step.

Brooks Women's Addiction Walker Shoes Brooks Women's Addiction Walker Shoes
4.5

Best white leather nursing sneakers that can also function as supportive walking shoes.

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Look for Slip Resistant Shoes in Nursing Environments

Nurses need traction when walking on slippery clinic floors, so slip-resistant shoes are a must if you want to avoid potential injury.

The Vionic Julianna shoes are highly slip-resistant and can be wiped down with a cloth, making them easy to maintain in clinical environments.  Orthopedic shoes like the Alegria Keli Professional are also high-traction.  They have been proven to perform well on wet and slippery surfaces.

Double-Check for Removable Insoles

Custom orthotics are a common tool used by nurses with orthopedic issues.  These shoe inserts are designed to meet your exact foot needs.  Some shoes have removable cushioning that can instead be replaced by the custom inserts.

The Propet Stability Walker can accommodate custom orthotics, in part because it is a shoe designed for orthopedic use.  So can the Dansko XP Clogs, even though they don’t exist solely for orthopedic use.

Dansko Women's XP 2.0 Clogs Dansko Women's XP 2.0 Clogs
5.0
$149.95

Slip into a pair of Dansko XP 2.0 and you'll be amazed by the long-lasting comfort and non-slip rubber outsoles! Available in wide sizes, everyone can enjoy these comfy clogs.

We earn a commission if you make a purchase, at no additional cost to you.
02/10/2025 07:06 am GMT

With that said, the existing footbed of the Dansko clogs has so much arch support and cushioning that you might not need your customized fit at all. It uses two layers of dense foam along with specialized arch support technology.

If you’re simply looking to buy a pair of generic insoles, you can also have a peek at our list of the 12 best insoles for standing all day.

Stick with Well-Known Quality Brands

Now you probably have a better idea of what you’re looking for.  But how do you trust the companies?

If you’re not sure, you can look for brands you trust.  There are many footwear brands that have decades of built-up reputation in the fashion industry. 

Brands like Orthofeet and Vionic design shoes specifically for people with different health conditions, which means you know they’ve done their research.  Brands like New Balance design super helpful athletic shoes that suit a wide variety of different athletic needs.

Best Orthopedic Nursing Shoes – Bottomline

The best orthopedic nursing shoes are the ones that give you support, cushioning, stability, and comfort throughout the day.  And of course, they should also meet the criteria for nursing footwear.

Different people will have different priorities depending on their needs.  Some people might want more flexibility and natural movement, while others might need very stiff support.  Some people might need extra arch support, while others might need their heel cushioned instead.

Our top pick overall is the Vionic Walker Sneaker.  They uncannily meet all of the requirements for nursing shoes, plus they have multiple orthopedic advantages.  All you need to do to clean them is wipe them down with a rag.  The traction is unparalleled on wet and slippery floors.

Our Top Pick
Vionic Women's Walker Classic Shoes Vionic Women's Walker Classic Shoes
5.0
$120.00 $69.99

These walkers are extremely durable, made with a full-grain leather upper and breathable mesh liner to keep your feet cool and dry throughout your shift.

We earn a commission if you make a purchase, at no additional cost to you.
02/09/2025 08:04 am GMT

This pick is also ideal because it comes in two different widths.  If you have a wider foot, bunions, or other orthopedic issues that require extra room, you’ll want to look for a wide shoe.

All in all, the shoe that you choose is up to you.  Now that you know what to look for, it shouldn’t be too hard to narrow down your list of options.  Every shoe on this list can improve your comfort, but you’re the only one who knows which will improve it the most.

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