Once you begin your career in nursing, you will find there is one thing that may stand out from the rest: you are on your feet a lot.
Whether you are working in a busy ER, doing rounds, assisting surgeries or just happen to work in a busy office, you’re sure to find a pair of nursing shoes in this list that will keep your feet feeling great all day.
Our top pick for best overall nursing shoe is the Dansko Pro XP Mule shoe.
Dansko Women's XP 2.0 Clogs
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.
The 15 Best Shoes for Nurses & Medical Professionals
Dansko Women’s Pro Xp 2.0 Mule Shoe
Dansko is a small company that makes incredibly comfortable shoes in all kinds of styles, but today the focus is on their nursing clogs.
The Xp Mule is a slip-on clog that is designed with comfort and performance in mind and the shoe is made from 100 percent leather upper that is quality stitched to the rubber sole. This is a full shoe, so it has a complete back ensuring your heel stays in place while quickly walking around.
The rubber sole is slip-resistant to give you confidence wet floors and there is a 2-inch heel to help prevent standing fatigue.
A memory foam insole fills the shoe to give full comfort and support to your foot, and a padded instep is also included.
There are 18 different styles to choose from so you have a lot of choices to express yourself with various colors and patterns that best suit your personality (or office policy).
The Dansko XP also made our list of the best nursing shoes for flat feet for 2024.
Pros
- High-quality shoe
- Many color choices
- Full foot enclosure including heel
Cons
- More expensive than other shoes
- Leather requires a break in period
These clogs are best for a nurse who wants a complete and stylish shoe that will also have slip resistance and a higher level of comfort than other shoes. Dansko is a quality brand name and these have been recommended by many who are already in busy work environments.
See our full list of the best clogs for nurses in 2024.
Dansko Women's XP 2.0 Clogs
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.
Nurse Mates Align Velocity Shoe
These athletic-inspired shoes by Nurse Mates brings the functionality of a nurse shoe into the year 2024 with a fit and design that goes beyond the standard slip-on or clog style we are accustomed to. I received a pair of these shoes from Nurse Mates and really liked the fit.
These shoes come with an adjustable bungee-style shoe lace that doesn’t need tying – which makes it easy to slip on and off. For me, personally, this was a bit loose since I have very narrow feet, so I used the normal shoe laces that also come with each pair of their shoes.
Pros
- Slip-proof rubber outsole
- Waterproof upper keep feet dry
- Removable, supportive insole
Cons
- Bungee-style shoe lace can be a bit loose for a narrow foot
These shoes are the best for nurses who are seeking the full benefit of a clog shoe but who want a bit more of a sneaker feel with laces. You can see our full review of the shoes here.
Align Velocity | Nursemates
Use code TPN20 for 20% off your Nurse Mates order.
- Lightweight
- Slip-proof
- Supportive enough for standing all day
- Can require a break-in period before wearing for a full shift
Nurse Mates Dove Oxford
Nurse Mates is a company that focuses primarily on nursing as their primary audience and they have done research into what is needed for footwear, scrubs and other apparel. They know a thing or two about what it means to be on your feet all day!
These slip-resistant, slip-on designed shoes for nurses are comfortable enough to be worn all shift and come in a white or black color based on your preferences.
The shoes run true-to-size, so you don’t need to worry about sizing up or down for the perfect fit!
Pros
- Supportive removable insole
- Full-grain leather
- Slip-resistant
Cons
- Slightly more expensive than others on the list
These are the best shoes for a nurse who is concerned about their appearance. They have a great style and shape to them and are still quite functional in a typical nursing environment.
Nurse Mates Women's Dove Oxford
The Nurse Mates Oxford was designed specifically for nurses who spend a lot of time on their feet.
Allbirds Tree Dashers
Read our detailed Allbirds Tree Dashers Review
Allbirds has made a splash in the industry for their sneakers made from natural resources with a super simple design. With no flashy logos here, their sneakers are amazingly comfortable and can be worn all day without pain. We chose the tree runners as one of our top choices of sneakers for nurses because they are quite light and breathable and also machine washable.
The Tree Dashers are the only technical, performance-based footwear offered by Allbirds currently, and they do an amazing job for nurses planning on wearing them throughout long shifts. The Tree Dashers come in myriad color variations as well as limited-time color combos.
While you’re at it, Allbirds recommends pairing their Tree Dashers with their Trino Sprinter socks.
Pros
- Machine washable
- Breathable fabric decreases odor
- Stable but flexible
- Supportive wool interior
Cons
- Pricey with few to no promos/sales
Women's Tree Dasher 2 | Allbirds
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.
Allbirds Tree Runners
Read our detailed review: Allbirds Tree Runners Review
Another pair of comfy sneakers from Allbirds, their Tree Runners are a bit less structured and less built for running and performance. The benefit, however, is that these shoes feel a bit more natural than a pair of “running shoes.” If, however, you are looking for a performance-type shoe, you should opt for the Tree Dashers. These Tree Runners are super lightweight and casual, so you can easily wear them after work or on the weekends!
It’s shocking to have such a comfortable sneaker made from natural materials. This is a big relief to those who would like to be more environmentally-friendly but do not want to make large sacrifices in comfort, quality, or looks. The knit fabric is made from eucalyptus tree fiber, the midsole is made from Brazilian sugarcane, the insole is made from castor beans, and the laces are made from recycled polyester. Amazing!
These are some of the best tennis shoes for nurses as well as great tennis shoes for the planet. They are quite affordable and can last for over a year if you take care of them.
Pros
- Made and inspired from natural materials
- Feels light and breezy
- Flexible (conforms to your feet)
- Machine washable
Cons
- The colors are a bit limited
- They are rarely on sale or sold on third party sites
These are perfect tennis shoes for a nurse who is looking to break free from popular sports brands and is looking for a tennis shoe that can be worn straight from work to the gym, to grabbing a drink with a friend, or for lounging on the weekend!
Allbirds Tree Runners
Incredibly light and airy natural sneakers made from eucalyptus tree fiber. To top it off, they're machine washable!
Reebok Flexagon Force Sneakers
Although clogs make a really practical choice for nurse footwear, sneakers are always another option for those looking for something more casual. In our list of the best tennis shoes for nurses, we include our top favorite brands from Allbirds and Reebok. Reebok is a popular sports footwear brand known for quality and support. Unlike Allbirds, however, Reebok is not known for using environmentally-friendly materials or being extremely eco-conscious. That said, these are just downright amazing sneakers that feel great being word all day.
These Flexagon sneakers are among the best sneakers for nurses because of their breathability that can help feet keep cool all day (and also to avoid odors) as well as their comfort, utilizing a memory foam sockliner and midsole cushioning.
Pros
- Breathable fabric keeps feet odor-free
- Extremely comfortable memory foam sockliner and cushioning make standing all day comfortable
- Cute design that comes in multiple color schemes
- Can be worn for interval training or gym sessions
Cons
- These are not made from natural materials
- They can run small, so proper sizing can be difficult
These tennis shoes are perfect for nurses who enjoy a more sporty look and prefer a more athletic-looking sneaker as opposed to a casual tennis shoe.
Reebok Flexagon Force Trainers
Breathable and shock-absorbing sneakers that come at an affordable price.
Related: Can Nurses Have Tattoos?
Crocs Unisex Bistro Clog
Crocs are very well known for their shoes in many different shapes and styles. They have been used by countless nurses since their inception.
Like most Crocs, the Bistro has a one-piece construction to the outer shoe. The material is easy to clean and comfortable to wear with or without socks.
The Bisto has rubber inserts in the sole making these anti-slip and perfect for wet work situations like hospitals or travel nursing and a heel strap is included to help keep your foot in place at the back of the shoe.
This version does not have any open toe ventilation that helps to keep your feet protected in the event of spills or other foot hazards.
Shop More of the Best Nurse Crocs for 2024
Pros
- Durable construction
- Heel strap
- Anti-slip sole
Cons
- No insole
- The arch can be uncomfortable for some
These shoes are perfect for a nurse who works in very wet situations on tile or cement flooring. The anti-slip is helpful as well as the plastic construction making them very easy to clean if needed.
Crocs Unisex-Adult Bistro Clog | Slip Resistant Work Shoes
Easy to clean and fun to wear, these slip-resistant Bistro clogs will add color to your wardrobe!
Anywear Women’s Srangel Health Care & Food Service Shoe
Shoes that are designed specifically for a particular job are always good to check out and Anywear does a great shoe that is made with nursing (or cooking) in mind.
The Anywhere Srangel is a full synthetic clog-type shoe that is perfect for wet and messy situations and the ability to keep your shoes clean with a quick wipe is a great feature to have. These clogs don’t have a full back to them so they are recommended only if you are not looking for something with heel support.
The rubber sole has a great tread pattern to it to help in slippery situations, and both the toe and the heel have additional traction points to prevent slips when walking quickly and with purpose.
There is also a removable insert for cleaning, and there are vent channels on the inside to help keep your foot ventilated and comfortable.
Pros
- Foot ventilation
- Removable insole
- Toe and heel traction
Cons
- Not a full heel
- Material will not conform to feet over time
These are the best shoes for nurses who don’t have to run or walk too much every day as they don’t have full heel support. They are great for keeping feet away from bad elements and even have a slight heel to them to help prevent standing fatigue.
Anywear SRANGEL Healthcare Professional Closed Back Clog
Ditch your old school heavy clunky clogs for this super lightweight, very cushioned, slip-resistant supportive nursing shoe clog.
Related: Stay Organized With These 6 Nurse Planners for 2024 and Beyond
Easy Spirit Women’s Twist Sneaker
Sometimes, even in a busy workplace, you want to add a sense of style to your feet and Easy Spirit makes a very stylish low cut slip-on sneaker that is perfect for your nursing job.
The upper of the Twist is lower cut than some sneakers making it easy to slip on but also adding a touch of style to the shoe. The check pattern across the top and sides adds a unique look to the shoe without losing any of the functionality.
The Twist feature a full heel and even has a pull loop on the back for assistance in putting them on so you don’t ruin the heel of the shoe every time you try and push your foot into them.
The sole has rubber inserts that flow right to the tip of the toe to keep your feet firmly on the floor as much as possible.
There is a removable insole that can be switched out if the included one is not the level of comfort you are looking for.
Pros
- Stylish and unique
- 4 delightful colors available
Cons
- Textured top may be difficult to clean
The Easy Spirit Twist is the best shoes for a nurse who wants wants a marriage of comfort and style. They are a unique twist to their wardrobe yet remain functional in a busy workplace.
Easy Spirit Women's Twist Sneaker
This slip on shoe is the perfect combination of utility and comfort.
Related: 7 Easy Hairstyles for Busy Nurses – Ready in Under 5 Minutes
Skechers Women’s Sport Premium
Skechers is a well-known name brand when it comes to shoes. They started their business with work boots so it would make sense they continue the tradition and offer comfortable shoes for nursing as well.
Just enough balance between workability and style means you get a good work shoe that still looks great. The finger hole in the back of the shoe is helpful for when slipping the shoe on and off your feet. The Sure Track has a removable inner sole that is made from memory foam to help provide comfort and also include a shock absorbing FlexSole in the middle for support and durability.
Pros
- 100% leather
- Padded tongue and collar
- Rubber sole
Cons
- Only variations of black and white models
The Skechers Sport Premium is the perfect shoe for nurses who want to stick with a name brand and still get the right shoe for the job. Skechers is known for its performance and style and brings all of their experience to create a perfect nursing shoe
Skechers Sport Women's Premium Sneaker
A great Skechers wide shoe option for nurses who are seeking stellar shock absorption.
Sticky Cute Nursing Shoes
Made from a thermoplastic, these nursing shoes are water resistant to ensure you keep your feet away from damp and messy situations. They are a low cut slip-on shoe with a full-heeled back to keep your feet where they are supposed to be no matter the patient or conditions.
A large heel and front foot area of the sole are covered in an anti-slip rubber in an effort to keep your feet secure and the footbed is made with a highly absorbent material to help keep moisture away from your feet all day.
As these shoes are made specifically for nursing, they have a small exclusive pin that is only available on their healthcare line.
Pros
- 18 awesome colors to choose from
- Made specifically for nursing
- Very lightweight
Cons
- Insole can be too thin
- Rubber sole can separate from the shoe
These shoes are perfect for the person looking for that cute nursing shoe that will match their scrubs but is also super functional. Waterproof and anti-slip mean these shoes are ready for business and they look good doing it.
Sticky Comfortable Work Shoes
Comfortable and easy-to-clean clogs that are designed for healthcare workers.
Related: The Best Nursing Clipboards
Skechers D’Lite Memory Foam
Sometimes comfort needs to take a front seat when it comes to our choices of work shoes, but that doesn’t mean your shoes can’t be comfortable and cute! Available in a variety of colors and inlay design, the Skechers D’Lite memory foam series can easily make the transition from a casual sneaker to a work shoe to a gym shoe.
Designed with a soft, cushioned, memory foam insole, these shoes are great for those who spend long days on their feet or who require a bit more support and cushion for issues such as fallen arches or Plantar Fasciitis. With a shock-absorbing athletic midsole, you can wear these shoes straight from work to the gym or on long walks.
The Skechers D’Lites made our #1 Pick among Best Skechers for Nurses in 2024
Pros
- Available in a variety of colors
- Thick midsole for shock absorption
- Memory foam cushioned insole
- Lightweight
Cons
- Not available in all colors/sizes
These shoes are perfect for the nurse who can wear a sneaker in their workplace and wants to stay comfortable all day.
Skechers Women's D'Lites Memory Foam Lace-up Sneaker
These are among the highest rated white nursing shoes among nurses and healthcare professionals.
Sanita Women’s Lindsey Clog
Sanita does a great looking classic clog that is perfect for your rounds while still keeping a touch of class.
The 100% leather upper is a full clog with heel support and a full top. The toe is nice and wide to accommodate feet without the fear of blisters or feeling tight on your toes.
The sole is made from polyurethane to keep it water resistant and slip resistant and there is a 2-inch heel with a 1-inch lift to the whole shoe to keep feet safe from standing fatigue. The sole is designed to be used with a rocking motion for a natural feel when walking or standing.
The footbed is anatomically shaped to keep feet in proper place and has a good amount of arch support and is approved by APMA for its orthopedic construction and its arch support.
Pros
- Orthopedic construction
- 4 great colors to choose
- High style clog
Cons
- Leather takes time to wear in
- Sizing can be a little off
These shoes are perfect for the nurse who likes clogs but does not want to wear the traditional models seen everywhere. They are a little more expensive than your standard basic clog, but style and comfort should make up for that.
Sanita Lindsey Patent Leather Clogs
These durable slip on clogs have excellent arch support and are super easy to clean.
Timberland Pro Women’s Renova PROfessional Slip On Clog
Timberland is well known for their walking and hiking footwear so they should know how to keep feet comfortable when they are standing and walking all day long.
The PROfessional Slip-On Clog is a full heel nurses clog with elastic goring on the upper to allow for easier slip on and off of the shoe. The upper is made of full grain leather for comfort and outstanding style.
The sole has a heel-to-toe rocker to keep feet happy while walking and is anatomically rounded to prevent tough impact of your heel strike. The rounded front of the sole reduces forefoot pressure and the soles use a SafeGrip to ensure they are slip resistant on both wet and dry surfaces.
The inside is molded to offer all-day standing support and superior shock absorption. Anti-microbial technology is used on the insole to prevent odor and to keep feet feeling fresh and comfortable.
Pros
- Rocker sole
- 3M Scotchgard protector for stains
- Elastic side panels
Cons
- Leather can be stiff
These clogs are perfect for nurses who are walking more than average. The Timberland technology is put into these shoes to ensure your feet are in the best possible condition even if you are on your feet all day.
Timberland PRO Women's Renova PROfessional Slip-On Clog
Complete leather slip ons with a reinforced toe that keeps your feet protected.
Kuru QUANTUM Sneaker
KURU Footwear is an up-and-coming shoe option for nurses looking for orthopedic sneakers.
These sneakers are designed using mesh, so that your feet stay dry and fresh all day.
The extra arch support helps to alleviate pain and the insole improves posture and alignment.
Available in medium and wide-width sizes as well as featuring extra toe box space, you can rest assured that these sneakers will be able to meet pretty much any extra foot needs.
QUANTUM Women's Mesh Fitness Sneaker | KURU Footwear
Lace up these comfy trainers that feature arch support, extra toe room, and an insole that helps improve alignment and alleviate pain.
Softwalk Women’s Meredith Clog
Sometimes style has to come above all else and Softwalk has you covered. With 54 different styles to choose from, you are sure to find something that will fit your look and personality. From tiny dogs to outrageous colors and outlandish patterns, Softwalk tries to bring something for everyone.
The shoe is made from a leather upper that is a full slip-on clog with a complete heel. A belt across the top adds a bit of style to the top of the shoe.
The sole is a lightweight EVA with rubber inserts to keep the shoes from slipping and there is a dual density footbed that helps to cushion with every step.
Pros
- So many choices
- Lightweight
Cons
- Leather can crack or peel
These are a Grey’s Anatomy branded shoe and are perfect for those who don’t want to sacrifice style for a decent nurse shoe. These have all the requirements of a model designed for nurses but offer a plethora of styles for those who don’t want to sacrifice their own uniqueness in the workplace.
SoftWalk Women's Meredith Sport Clog
These comfortable clogs are breathable and come in wide sizes.
Related: 15 Funny Nurse Shirts That Will Make You Smile
Benefits of Nursing-Specific Footwear
When it comes to shoes there are so many styles and brands to choose from but the most important factor is that the shoes are made for nursing.
Here’s why:
- Comfort – Nurses are on their feet all day and are perpetually in motion and it’s a good idea to have shoes that address that level of activity. Having an insole that prevents foot and back fatigue is important as well to help you ward off injuries or tightness.
- Cleaning – Keeping your shoes clean and free from stains is very important in a hospital environment. It is a good idea to have shoes that are easy to clean and use a material that is resistant to staining.
- Simple design and style – Slip-on shoes are used often to ensure that laces and other flairs do not become an issue. Laces can get caught on things and equipment as you are moving past them and you don’t want to create a disturbance or knock something over by accident. Many offices also have a dress code that nurses must follow.
- Safety – Being sure your shoes are anti-slip mean you’re able to walk and do your job in slippery settings. Floors can get wet with fluids in a nursing environment and the last thing you need is to lose your balance at a critical moment. Having the right amount of ant-slip lets you work in confidence without the fear of falling.
What to Look For in the Best Nursing Shoes
There are some features of a good nursing shoe that help you decide if the shoe is right for you:
- Durability – the upper should be well constructed and be able to take some abuse. Shoes that are poorly stitched or have an excessive amount of stitching can come apart after some wear and soles with rubber inserts can separate over time if the shoe is not flexible enough.
- Insole – a removable insole can be important to make sure you are getting enough support for your foot and back. Also, a removable insole can be cleaned or replaced as needed. If you need additional support and your insole is not removable, then the shoe may not have enough room inside for an additional insole. The Nurse Mates Align Velocity shoes come with a removable insole.
Align Velocity | Nursemates
Use code TPN20 for 20% off your Nurse Mates order.
- Lightweight
- Slip-proof
- Supportive enough for standing all day
- Can require a break-in period before wearing for a full shift
Being sure the insole has enough arch support is also important as not all nursing shoes come with insoles like clogs that are single piece of material. It is important to be sure these shoes have enough support for each individual so make sure you check how your own feet feel with the arches and insoles.
- Fatigue-reducing sole – a heel on your sole is actually quite helpful when standing for long periods of time as it helps to keep your feet and your back aligned properly for good posture. This enables you to stay on your feet for longer periods of time. A good rocker sole helps when standing for long periods as it enables you to move the pressure on your feet from your heel to the ball of your foot and back to your heel without a lot of resistance to help keep fatigue away.
Best Shoes for Nurses FAQ
Are Crocs comfortable for nurses?
Crocs are comfortable and convenient and are commonly worn for healthcare workers working in the ICU, OR, and ER. Before you buy a pair, however, you should check with your hospital’s rules on Crocs.
What are the most comfortable shoes for standing all day?
The most comfortable shoes for standing all day are generally a good pair of supportive sneakers. We suggest Allbirds Tree Dashers, which have the added benefit of being machine washable!
What shoes do real nurses prefer to wear?
Nurses tend to fall into 2 camps: clogs/mules or sneakers. The most popular clog is the Dansko Pro XP Mule and the top sneaker is the Allbirds Tree Dashers.
Best Shoes for Nurses – Bottomline
Hopefully after going through this nurse shoe list, you found a sneaker, slip-on, or clog that fits your needs! If you’re still undecided, then you can’t go wrong with the Dansko XP 2.0 Clog. Easy-to-clean leather upper, slip-proof rubber sole, and available in wide sizes, these are some of the best clogs for nurses yet.
Dansko Women's XP 2.0 Clogs
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 hope you found this list of shoes helpful and there is something on this list that works for you!
