Are you a nurse who spends hours on your feet and can’t wait to kick your shoes off at the end of the day? We’ve put together a list of the best shoes for nurses to help make those long shifts a little more comfortable for your feet.

best shoes for nurses

Comfortable shoes are a non-negotiable if you’re someone who spends most of the day on your feet.

Whether you’re working 12-hour shifts in the hospital, walking around all day to see patients, or just someone who deals with foot pain, finding supportive shoes can make a huge difference.

If you’re spending hours walking and standing on hard hospital or office floors, supportive shoes are key. We’ve rounded up the best shoes for nurses to help keep your feet comfortable so you’re not counting down the minutes until you can kick your shoes off after your shift.

10 Best Shoes for Nurses

The one thing all of the shoes on the list have in common is that they should feel just as comfortable at the end of your shift as they did at the beginning.

Spending long hours on your feet can leave you more prone to issues like plantar fasciitis,Achilles pain, and general foot fatigue. That’s why, as a nurse, finding the right pair of shoes really comes down to the balance between cushioning and support.

You don’t want something that feels overly firm, too squishy, or stacked so high that it feels unstable after hours of walking.

And no, that doesn’t mean you’re stuck wearing clunky-looking shoes either. A few of the options below are surprisingly stylish while still providing the support your feet need.

Best Overall Shoe for Nurses – Hoka Bondi SR

This is their slip-resistant version of that plush Bondi designed specifically for the workplace. That means you’re getting that plush feeling from the EVA midsole, nice padded tongue and all the features I mentioned above, but they’ve added things for those who are at work and may need more safety.

Even with all that cushioning and stability, the Hoka Bondi manages to feel surprisingly light. The durable rubber outsole provides reliable traction during long shifts and lends to the shoe’s stability and durability.

Hoka for work
Image from Acrosssports

You just can’t go wrong with the Hoka Bondi if you’re looking for maximum cushioning in a walking shoe – you’ll truly feel like you’re walking on pillows!

The Hoka Bondi can be found on a lot of our best shoe lists. It’s just an all-around good shoe.

These shoes have the perfect combo of being not too plush but not too firm.

Also, they’re excellent in terms of lateral stability and support, making them a good choice for nurses who need a firm, stable shoe.

Specifications

Quick Take

Pros

  • Even with the increase in stack height, each stride feels super stable.
  • Updated cushion so that it doesn’t feel like you’re sinking into the ground.
  • Versatile shoe that will be great for running or walking.

Cons

  • It’s a lot of shoe that may not be ideal for every runner.
  • This is not a shoe for speed workouts, rather easy runs and recovery runs.

Best Lightweight Shoe – On Cloudtilt

If we had to pick on shoe from this list to wear for a long day on our feet it would be this one. In fact, we’ve worn it for super long days and found that for a non-running shoe, it provided the cushion we so desperately wanted!

This will provide the comfort and support that you need walking or standing around all day on those harder hospital floors. On Cloudtilt Feel

Do you never untie their shoes? You won’t even have to worry about it with these! There’s a knotted bungee lace set up so you can easily take them on and off, plus never worry about them coming untied on the go.

Specifications

Quick Take

Pros

  • Easy to just slip on, no lacing needed
  • Roomier toebox than other On shoes
  • Lightweight for all day wear

Cons

  • Fit can be a little narrow
  • Not everyone loves the speed laces

Best Moderate Cushioned Shoe – On Cloudmonster 3

Technically at 35mm we no longer consider this a max cushioned running shoe. And that’s where the confusion comes in for some folks, this really falls in the moderate cushioned category now and thus is right on in terms of not being too soft or plush.

The Cloudmonster 3 also retains the rocker shape and propulsive Speedboard to help keep you rolling forward. Neither of these feels as dramatic as you’d find in a race day carbon plated shoe, but they nonetheless keep the shoe feeling responsive rather than flat.

On CloudMonster 3 Review

The additional layer of Cloudtec foam adds just a little more weight as compared to previous Cloudmonsters, but the extra 5mm of cushioning seems to be worth it. But you’re really not going to notice it unless you have one shoe from each model on.

Specifications

Quick Take

Pros

  • More secure upper
  • Good energy return for max cushion
  • Stable feeling drop

Cons

  • Low and stiff heel collar
  • Cushioning is not as plush

Best Max Cushioned Shoe – Asics Gel Nimbus 28

If you spend a lot of hours on your feet whether walking or standing at in the hospital or doctors office, this max cushion shoe is going to help your legs feel fresh!

PureGel is in the heel and gives that additional impact absorption. The midsole is also still FF BLAST™ PLUS, but has been reformulated a bit and redistributed to help with that weight drop.

Underfoot it’s not so soft that you sink in and yet, you absolutely get that cushioned feeling we desire for a max cushioned shoe.Asics gel nimbus 28 Review

The midsole is also still FF BLAST™ PLUS, but has been reformulated a bit and redistributed to help with that weight drop. Underfoot it’s not so soft that you sink in and yet, you absolutely get that cushioned feeling we desire for a max cushioned shoe (yes we’ve tested plenty that felt really firm like the first Brooks Ghost Max).

Specifications

Quick Take

Pros

  • Cushion has a very long life
  • Really comfortable underfoot
  • Lighter max cushion shoe

Cons

  • Some still find it a little warm
  • Price increase again
  • Long tab on tongue might bother some

Best Shoe for Heel Support –  Kuru TRIPLE MAX Ion

The wide base and KURUCLOUD+ cushioning offer the kind of support and comfort that makes long chunks of time on your feet a whole lot better. Plus, we have a feeling that the rubber outsole will withstand many hours and hospital shifts of wear and tear.

What makes Kuru shoes unique is their heel-hugging technology. All of their footwear is designed to support a heel-first approach, aligning with your foot’s natural biomechanics. Instead of spending extra money on inserts, Kuru shoes come with this support built in!

kuru triple max ion

The outsole of the TRIPLE MAX Ion looks like it’s built to last. One thing I really appreciated is that the tread pods extend across the entire forefoot. Especially if you find yourself in a slippery situation, you’re not going to have to worry about the potential of falling.

Specifications

Quick Take

Pros
  • The wide base feels stable with the KURUCLOD+ cushioning.
  • Ability to change the lacing for a more locked in fit.
  • Super durable outsole to withstand wear and tear.
Cons
  • Does not come in other widths.
  • It’s a hefty shoe.
  • Not designed to get you through faster workouts.

Best Wider Fit Shoe- Brooks Ghost Max 3

The Brooks Ghost Max 3 has been a popular shoe through all of its iterations, whether for running or walking. But the newest model vastly improved a number of features, including the look of the shoe!

It’s very basic which is sometimes what you want when working in the hospital.

It’s cushioned and comfortable, and though chunky, really offers some benefits for nurses.

The shoe has a wider outsole and a broad midsole that help provide a stable base, especially if you’re standing for long periods at a time on a harder surface.brooks ghost max 3 stack height

The sidewalls and guidance line helps curb that inward motion without feeling overly corrective, This is a neutral shoe, not a stability shoe which is important as not everyone loves the stiffness of some stability shoes. The a higher stack height combined with nitrogen-infused DNA Loft v3 foam means it’s very comfy.

Which means your legs will thank you at the end of a very busy, long shift!

There is another Ghost Max 4 coming out in August that the team can give the thumbs up from their initial testing already. We’ll update that info here once it launches.

Specifications

Quick Take

Pros

  • A wider base with moderate cushioning for all day comfort.
  • Soft, plush upper mesh that’s still breathable and keeps your foot in place.
  • A durable shoe that is going to last for many miles.
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Cons
  • Isn’t a very versatile shoe; it’s not meant to throw on to run faster paces.
  • It’s a heavier shoe that may not be ideal for everyone.
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New Balance Fresh Foam X More v6

New Balance’s Fresh Foam is every bit as lovely as it sounds. These shoes feel fabulous when you slip them on and yet maintain good responsiveness. In fact, I’ve been running A LOT of miles in the NB 1080 model and recommend it frequently as well.

From top to bottom the More v6 has been built up to make walking or standing on your feet enjoyable, especially when working 12 hour shifts on tired legs. You’ll get plenty of cushion that is gentle on your legs when walking or standing around the hospital all day.

New Balance More v6 Review

Stability shouldn’t be an issue with the More v6, despite its stack height. The base of the shoe is wide, and the midsole sidewalls cup your heel and midfoot to offer some stability.

And we can’t believe we’re saying this, but at 40mm it’s actually not as high as the average 45mm max cushioned shoe we’re testing, yet it feels every bit as cushioned and comfortable. Plus, the 4mm drop is a big win as so many others are 10mm which can lead to knee pain for many people.

Specifications

  • Weight: 8.5 oz Women’s, 10.8 oz Men’s
  • Stack Height: 40mm of Fresh Foam X
  • Heel to Toe Drop: 4mm drop
  • Available in wide sizes, 2E & 4E
  • 5 colorways available
  • Available for $160 at newbalance.com
  • Read our full review of the NB More v6 here >>

Quick Take

Pros

  • Great value for the amount of shoe you get
  • Like a spa day for your legs and feet
  • Subtle, but surprising amount of energy return
  • Smooth transitions
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Cons
  • Weight is noticeable on longer runs
  • Not ideal for standing around
  • Upper runs hot
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Best Stability Shoe – Brooks Adrenaline GTS 25

The “GTS” in Brooks Adrenaline GTS stands for “Go-To Shoe.” It’s a nod to the fact that the Adrenaline GTS has become a go-to shoe for many nurses who prioritize stability, support, and comfort in their shoes. It’s simply gotten lighter and less rigid over the years!

It has a nice, solid structure with flexibility, offering support for people with high arches, but can also be a solid option for flat feet with a special insert. Its GuideRails support system helps your foot move more naturally in each step.

Brooks Adrenaline 25 Overview

Specifications

Quick Take

Pros

  • Great stability
  • Softer with additional foam
  • Lots of size and width options
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Cons
  • Firmer than Glycerin
  • Traditional look
  • Heavy like  many stability shoes
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Shoe Designed for Women- Ryka Podflow

These shoes have a great design and look, plus a lot of science behind them!  Rykä’s shoes are made specifically for a woman’s foot and these shoes are versatile!

Since Ryka shoes are designed for women, the structure of the shoe is a little different than most. You’ll find that there’s a wider forefoot and a narrower heel for a more secure fit.

The midsole is is made of ACTIVenergy™ translucent EVA foam which offers a soft and responsive midsole cushioning.  The pods along the sole of the shoe also offer targeted support for each part of the foot while promoting natural motion.  The heel has a nice rocker and the pod along the arch feels a bit firmer which helps promote a natural feeling motion while walking or exercising.

Ryka Podflow Pods

Not only does the insole offer extra arch support and nice heel support, but it is made with partially recycled EVA. 

The outsole is made of compression-molded rubber with a decoupled heel rocker and arch support pod. The articulated pods are innovative in providing both cushion, natural movement and stability.

Specifications

Quick Take

Pros

  • Cushionig is just right and not too squishy
  • APMA approved for good foot health
  • Roomier toebox and secure heel fit
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Cons
  • Women’s only shoe
  • Cushioning may be too firm for some folks
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Budget Friendly but Comfortable Shoe – Skechers Arch Fit 2.0

Skechers teamed up with podiatrists to create the Arch Fit insole system, using 20 years of data and over 120,000 foot scans to build a shoe that supports natural alignment, disperses weight evenly, and reduces pressure points.

This shoe was designed to contour to your arch and distribute weight across the foot. It’s going to feel good whether you’re walking or standing all day, seeing patients.

Skechers Max Cushioning Arch Fit Go Run Review

This shoe was designed to deliver all-day comfort and support, especially for people who need a little extra help from their shoes. That includes walkers with flat feet, overpronators, or anyone on their feet for long hours.

Specifications

Quick Take

Pros

  • Lightweight and breathable
  • Available in slip-on styles to avoid lacing
  • No question for durability with the outsole
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Cons
  • Some have said it can run a little narrow
  • Style isn’t the most important feature here
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What to Look for in Shoes for Nurses?

Here are a few things to keep in mind when looking at a pair of shoes if you’re going to wear them in a hospital or medical office:

Fit

Think of being on your feet for an entire shift like going out for a long run. Your feet are naturally going to swell throughout the day, especially with hours of standing and walking on hard floors.

That’s why finding the right fit matters so much. Look for a shoe with enough room in the toe box and a secure heel fit so your foot feels supported instead of sliding around.

You may even want to consider going up half a size, as many runners do with their running shoes.

Cushioning and Support

A good balance of cushioning and support will go a long way toward keeping your feet and legs fresh all day and night.

You want just the right amount of cushioning to take some of the pressure off your feet while standing and walking on hard floors all day. If there’s too much, you’re going to sink into the shoe, and your lower back is surely going to let you know it’s not happy about that.

You want to make it through the end of your shift feeling good and happy, rather than cranky because of sore feet.

Slip Resistance

Shoes like Hoka have turned some of their popular shoes into slip-resistant (SR) versions. All this means is that the soles of the shoes are designed with a slightly different type of rubber to keep you standing on two feet when things get slippery.

Of course, a lot of running shoes come with better traction to keep you upright on wet sidewalks, so they should do the trick in the hospital setting as well.

As always, the best shoes for nurses are the ones that feel good on your feet! You can find most of the models at any running store, so head in and test them out.

You can take them for a walk around the block to check for any discomfort and see how the EVA foam midsole feels for you. Remember that even if you buy them, take them home, and discover you dislike them, YOU CAN TAKE THEM BACK!!

Whether you’re standing all day for work on your feet, you deserve a good pair of shoes!

If they feel better, then you’re more likely to want to wear them.

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