"nursing shoes" .vs. regular athlethic sneakers? - page 2

1. 
   Jan 9, '03

   Joined: Oct '00; Posts: 10,236; Likes: 64

   I've usually always worn the Reebok DMX, but I've found I just don't like them as much lately. So I just bought a pair of Avia's and I like them alot. They're usually comfortable for about a year for me (I only work 2 days per week and I don't wear them for anything else), but I usually end up getting a new pair sooner just because I like a new looking pair of shoes!
   
   Heather
2. 
   Jan 9, '03

   Occupation: RN and blogger extraordinaire Specialty: 20 year(s) of experience in LTC, assisted living, med-surg, psych ; From: OR, US ; Joined: Sep '02; Posts: 26,953; Likes: 44,668

   I swear by New Balance, and if I can't find those, I go for Nike Airs. Both are lightweight---essential for me since I'm already dragging around a lot of extra pounds---and they provide good cushioning & support. I've bought so-called nursing shoes that were twice as expensive, and my feet were singing "Ave Maria" halfway through the shift. I've had to replace them every 6 months when I was doing floor nursing, but they're only $40-60 a pair, and I can find them anywhere---don't have to drive 50 miles to the uniform shop or risk buying an ill-fitting shoe online, which makes it hard to return.
3. 
   Jan 10, '03

   Occupation: nurse Joined: Sep '02; Posts: 364; Likes: 3

   I alternate Avia with New Balance.It helps to not wear the same shoe for two shifts in a row. With Nursemates,I was crawling at the end of a 12 hour shift.
4. 
   Jan 10, '03

   Joined: Jan '03; Posts: 18

   I think what it boils down to is that we all have different shaped feet and different arches, and what is comfortable on my feet might hurt like hell on yours.
   
   Here's a few ideas:
   
   *Doc Martens does make some nursing-type shoes, in solid white. They're pricey, but they last forever and some folks swear by the comfort.
   
   *When you go shoe shopping, go when you've been on your feet all day and they're swollen and they hurt. On that note, don't forget to break your shoes in!
   
   *I often use a 'scotchguard' and a waterproofing type spray on my shoes to make them more stain/dirt resistant, so they look cleaner & last longer.
   
   *"Shoes for Crews", is a company that makes shoes for chefs, nurses, and waitresses/waitors. I tried a pair of them and hated them, thought they were the most uncomfortable thing I'd ever put on my feet.. but I know folks who love them.
   
   *If you have an uncommon shoe size/width, I recommend Nordstroms. They will order in the strange sizes and they have one of the best stocks of atypical shoe sizes. (My mom wears a 9AAAA and they are the only place that keeps that size in stock). You can browse/order online at nordstrom.com
   
   * If your budget permits, have a few different styles of shoes for work, and rotate which you wear. Your feet will appreciate you for it.
5. 
   Jan 10, '03

   Occupation: Educator Specialty: 6 year(s) of experience in CCU/ER ; Joined: Sep '02; Posts: 144; Likes: 3

   I wear white Skechers because they hurt my feet the least! I tried "Nursing Shoes" and I came home in tears because my feet hurt so much!
   
   After I got special permission from faculty, I got my Skechers and have not had that problem again!
   
   
   Find what works for you!!!!!
   
   
   Good luck!
6. 
   Jan 10, '03

   Occupation: RN Joined: Dec '02; Posts: 129; Likes: 1

   Mizuno running shoes, and no aches or pains in the legs, feet or back after 12 hours!
7. 
   Jan 10, '03

   Joined: Nov '01; Posts: 510; Likes: 8

   Originally posted by renerian
   Rebo DMX walkers, great for the feet.
   
   renerian

   
   DITTO DITTO DITTO!!!!! I can't say enough about these shoes! They are the most comfortable shoes I've ever worn!! I actually bought a pair to wear just in my house while I'm cooking and cleaning and such. They make a huge difference!
8. 
   Jan 10, '03

   Occupation: Proud and Educated Licensed Vocation Nurse Joined: Jun '02; Posts: 1,286; Likes: 27

   I was recently diagnosed with Plantar Fasciitis. It hurts. Got a Cortisone shot a week back, which has helped.
   
   My Podiatrist said the worst shoes are Nike's. He said if you can bend the shoe backward in the middle, it is not offering the support needed to "pound the ward" all day.
   
   Next worst was Easy Spirit (They are EXTREMEMLY comfortable, but you can twist them in a knot...NO SUPPORT in the long run!)
   
   The best was Sauconney's and clogs (preferably wooden). Now, I ain't into ugly shoes, but if pain is involved? I would wear those little old lady white moccasin shoes if need be.
9. 
   Jan 10, '03

   Occupation: ED RN Joined: Sep '02; Posts: 2,475; Likes: 25

   I've heard Nikes aren't very good for people with narrow feet or high arches, like mine. Their shoes run on the wide side...not good.
   
   Although probably after a few years of nursing my feet will be so flat and wide I'll have to wear clown shoes, lol.
10. 
    Jan 10, '03

    Occupation: student Joined: Sep '02; Posts: 64; Likes: 7

    one word : Birkenstocks.....
    
    my opinion...but I know plenty of people that hate them...they make my feet soooooooooo happy though....and they are very lightweight...the ones I got can actually be steralized...
    
    I found mine on ebay...you can usually use the buy it now feature...think I paid around 45 bucks! not too shabby!!!
    -Claire
11. 
    Jan 11, '03

    Occupation: VTS RN Specialty: 25 year(s) of experience in Neurosurgery, Vascular-Thoracic Surgery ; Joined: Dec '02; Posts: 1,190; Likes: 15

    We all use the closed back clogs at my hospital. fashion statement or not, they are extremely comfortable...easy to clean...can run thru a 12 hr shift without any problems AND they force you to do this pelvic-tilt thingy that really has saved back injuries. Pricy..but worth every penny. I have had mine for 5 years.

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