Best shoes for work?

Ruby Vee, BSN · May 28, 2018

What are the most comfortable Nike shoes to wear for nursing? Or the most comfortable adidas? Or under armour shoes to wear for a 12 hour shift? nurse mates don't fit me correctly and we can't wear crocs. What are the most comfortable tennis shoes you have foundto survive a 12 hour shift?

The most comfortable shoes for me are going to be different than the most comfortable ones for you. I don't like Nike -- they don't have enough support, although if you have an orthotic, that might help. I loved my Danskos, couldn't wear Birkenstocks and Nurse Mates didn't have enough support. My best suggestion is to take yourself to a brick and mortar shoe store (although I love Zappos, once I've figured out what brand/style/size I need) and have yourself fitted. A running shoe store may watch your gait and have advice as to whether you are over- or under-pronating and what shoes to wear to correct that. Be prepared to pay big bucks for the right shoes -- sometimes well over $100. But the right shoes are worth it, because the wrong shoes will give you foot, knee, hip and back pain.

meanmaryjean, DNP, RN · May 29, 2018

It's like asking who you should marry. Only you can figure that out. I will say my daughter spent the $$ for custom orthotics which can go in almost any shoe. Perhaps that would work for you.

Wiggly Litchi · May 30, 2018

As previous posters have said, it's going to vary person to person.

I loved my Alegria clogs and I wore those until they practically fell apart. Others have sworn by the hard supports in Dankso clogs, but after 5~ hours my feet are screaming.

I like to wear a lot of tennis shoes if I can; I've loved New Balance, Saucony etc, but really you've just got to try some on in person and see what your feet are happy with :). Different styles in the same brand are going to fit uniquely too, so don't be scared to experiment.

That being said, good shoes are an investment; they're going to save your back, feet, legs, and sanity. Don't be afraid to pay $100 or more for shoes if they fit you well.

Long Term Care Columnist / Guide · Jun 5, 2018

I loved (and still wear) New Balance running shoes. Almost every pair I've ever tried on fits like they were made for me. They are priced in the mid-range ($60-$100) and come in lots of styles and colors. The only disadvantage is that you have to replace them every few months if you're running the floors. But again, they don't cost an arm and a leg so it's no big deal when you have to get new ones.

elkpark · Jun 6, 2018

I've had good experiences with New Balance and with the SAS brand (traditional nursing shoes, not sneakers). But, as already noted, different shoes are more comfortable for different people. Your best bet is to try on different brands and models in a B&M store (and walk around in the store in them -- a lot).

eg1014, MSN, APRN, NP · Jul 14, 2018

If you want some REAL shoes for work... try Hoka. Many nurses, including myself, swear by them. Take it from someone with a degenerated lumbar disc and who tried all the basic nursing shoes people get (Dansko, Nursemates, Nike, etc).

Hoka sneakers are ridiculously comfortable and light. Best models are Gaviota, Clifton and Bondi. They have a thick sole but IMO, I'll take anything if it's gonna protect me!

CharlieFoxtrot · Oct 17, 2018

I wear side zip tactical boots which are waterproof, steel-toed, slip resistant, BBP proof, and probably the comfiest shoes I have ever had. They take a beating and polish up nicely. Not to mention they have saved my toes around clutzy clients and co-workers. They're not for everyone, but I wouldn't trade them for the world.