As a nurse, you understand the stress and strain of long shifts and constant movement.
The right pair can make a significant difference in your workday by providing comfort, stability, and protection.
My pick of the Best Orthopedic Shoe For Nurses
Based on my own personal struggles with finding the right shoes and talking to countless nurses throughout my career as a nurse, my pick of the best orthopedic shoe for nurses is the Dansko Professional Clog.
- Leather and or fabric uppers
- Padded instep collar for comfort when walking
- Roomy reinforced toe box for protection with plenty of “wiggle room” for your toes
I’m going to be honest, I do not understand why so many of my peers love these shoes so much, but they do.
Because so many nurses I asked mentioned these Danskos, I’m actually going to put them ahead of my personal favorite pick.
When asked, I was told they are lightweight, comfortable, surprisingly affordable, and extremely durable.
The Danskos have a wide, deep-toe box that allows for plenty of wiggle room.
The shoes also have built-in arches that provide additional support and help prevent foot fatigue.
The Dansko Clog is also slip-resistant, making it a great choice for nurses who work in a hospital or on a slippery floor.
Personally, I hate the way these shoes look, and I find the New Balance 847 to be much more comfortable.
- TRUFUSE midsole cushioning combines two different foams to deliver responsive, durable cushioning
- ROLLBAR stability post system helps control rear-foot movement for enhanced support
- Synthetic leather construction offers unmatched durability and a lightweight feel built for all-day…
There are two things worth mentioning, but I don’t think they are deal breakers.
The first is that I tend to wear them with shoe inserts (check out this article on the best shoe inserts for nurses).
That’s not necessarily an issue with these shoes other than I wear inserts with every shoe.
The second is that I do find the New Balance 847 to be a little heavy on the feet.
Heaviness and all, I still find them very comfortable, especially for standing during a 12-hour shift.
Best Orthopedic Shoes for Nurses
In this article, I have gathered a list of the best orthopedic shoes to keep your feet comfortable and supported during those long shifts at work.
Check them out below!
1. Miurixo Mooncloudy Breathable Orthopedic Shoes
The are designed with nurses in mind, providing the comfort and support needed for long hours on your feet.
The non-slip sole ensures that you can confidently walk on various surfaces, from wet floors to smooth tiles, making these shoes a reliable choice for your work environment.
Comfort is key when it comes to nursing shoes, and the Mooncloudy shoes deliver on this front with their internal reinforcement that reduces friction between your feet and the shoes.
This feature, combined with the breathable fabric, creates a comfortable environment for your feet throughout the day, preventing discomfort and sweat buildup.
In addition to their practical benefits, these shoes offer a stylish and simple design that can easily fit into your work wardrobe.
However, it’s essential to keep in mind that the available color options may be limited, and some users might experience sizing issues with the shoes.
Ensure you read the size guide carefully and consider these factors when making your choice.
Pros
- Non-slip sole for safety on various surfaces
- Comfortable for all-day wear, reducing foot friction
- Breathable and soft material for added comfort
Cons
- Available in limited color options
- May not be suitable for extreme work conditions
- Sizing issues might be experienced by some users
2. OrthoComfoot Women’s Slip-On Shoes
If you’re a nurse who spends long hours on your feet, these OrthoComfoot Women's Slip-On Shoes could be the perfect solution for you.
With premium quality insoles that provide excellent arch support and high-grade gel pads for impact absorption, your feet will feel supported and comfortable throughout your entire shift.
The high-quality canvas upper and lace-up design make these shoes adaptable to various foot shapes.
The soft velvet lining ensures breathability and moisture absorption, reducing fatigue and helping your feet relax all day.
Plus, these shoes are fashionable, trendy, and versatile, making them suitable for various occasions beyond work.
One drawback is that the shoes might run slightly large for some users.
The lace-up design may also make them less of a true slip-on than expected.
Additionally, some users have reported the shoes being a bit heavy.
Despite these minor downsides, the OrthoComfoot Women’s Slip-On Shoes offer excellent support and comfort, making them a top choice for nurses who need orthopedic footwear.
Pros
- Premium quality insole for arch support
- High-quality canvas upper and soft velvet lining
- Fashionable, versatile, and easy to wear
Cons
- Shoes may run slightly large
- Can be a bit heavy for some users
- Not a true slip-on due to necessary lace-up
3. Bssaa Mooncloudy Orthopedic Shoes
Designed for long-standing work and various activities, the Bssaa Mooncloudy Orthopedic Shoes provide comfort and utility.
Their internal reinforcement helps reduce friction between your feet and shoes, ensuring a more comfortable experience throughout your day.
The breathable fabric guarantees that your feet won’t feel suffocated or sweaty during those long shifts.
Additionally, the non-slip soles enable you to walk confidently on smooth or wet surfaces without fear of slipping, boosting both comfort and safety.
Another major aspect of these shoes is the three-arch support design, which evenly distributes your weight across your feet, reducing undue pressure on specific areas.
This feature is especially helpful for nurses suffering from plantar fasciitis or other foot-related issues.
Despite their many upsides, some potential drawbacks of the Bssaa Mooncloudy Orthopedic Shoes are the artificial PU material and limited color options.
These factors may make them a less optimal choice for individuals who prioritize natural materials or a more professional appearance.
Pros
- Comfortable all-day wear
- Breathable and soft design
- Even pressure distribution
Cons
- Artificial PU material
- Limited color options
- May be too casual for some
4. WCXTY White Healthcare Nursing Shoes
WCXTY White Healthcare Nursing Shoes provide a comfortable and supportive fit that hugs your feet, making them ideal for individuals who stand for extended periods.
Designed with a soft, breathable insole, these shoes can help alleviate fatigue and keep your feet dry throughout the day.
An added bonus of these orthopedic nurse shoes is their easy-to-clean EVA material, which is both waterproof and oil-proof.
This enclosed design also protects your feet from potential injuries, making them suitable for nurses working in various environments.
The slip-resistant sole of these nursing shoes is made from rubber and features an anti-slip pattern design, ensuring maximum safety and improved efficiency during your shifts.
While these shoes are an excellent choice for many nursing professionals, keep in mind that they may not fit all foot types, have limited color options, and could present sizing issues.
Pros
- Comfortable and breathable
- Easy to clean and waterproof
- Slip-resistant and offers arch support
Cons
- May not fit all foot types
- Limited color options
- Potential for sizing issues
5. WCXTY Orthopedic Nursing Shoes
These WCXTY Orthopedic Nursing Shoes for women are designed specifically for those in the healthcare industry, with comfortable leather uppers, breathable inner lining, and an anti-slip sole.
They are perfect for nurses, doctors, hospital workers, restaurant service personnel, teachers, and even as gifts for nursing students.
The shoes come with a soft and breathable insole, featuring massage particles and air holes that can help relieve fatigue and keep your feet dry during long shifts.
What’s more, the insole is removable and easy to clean, ensuring optimal comfort and hygiene.
One of the key features of these nursing shoes is their professional slip-resistant design.
The rubber sole provides a solid grip on various surfaces, so you can feel secure and confident while walking around medical facilities or dealing with potentially slippery conditions.
Pros
- Comfortable fit with soft, breathable insole
- Easy to clean and lightweight
- Professional slip-resistant design
Cons
- Mainly focused on healthcare professionals
- May not have enough support for severe foot conditions
- Limited color options
6. Dansko Women’s Professional Clog
If you’re a nurse spending long hours on your feet, the comfort and support offered by Dansko's Professional Cabrio clog are hard to beat.
The shoe features a polyurethane rocker-bottom sole designed to protect your feet, legs, and back from the stress of standing or walking, while also propelling your foot forward to keep you moving.
The leather uppers, padded instep collar, and roomy reinforced toe box of the Professional Clog ensure both durability and comfort.
With plenty of “wiggle room” for your toes, these shoes can help in preventing discomfort during those long shifts at the hospital.
However, finding the perfect size might require some trial and error, and you may need to break in these shoes for a short period to get the most comfortable fit.
Furthermore, some users have reported the paint wearing off over time.
Nevertheless, the Dansko Women’s Professional Clog is an excellent investment for nurses who prioritize comfort, support, and style in their footwear.
Pros
- Exceptional arch support
- Promotes good foot, leg, and back health
- Stylish design
Cons
- May require a break-in period
- Sizing can be tricky
- Paint may wear off over time
7. Orthofeet Women’s Orthopedic No-Tie Sneaker with Arch Support Francis
Orthofeet Women's Orthopedic No-Tie Sneakers are designed to give nurses the comfort and support they need during their long hours on their feet.
The bungee-style lace system means you won’t have to worry about tying your shoelaces, making these an ideal choice for busy professionals.
The ergonomic soles on these sneakers provide unparalleled support, making them suitable for a variety of foot conditions like plantar fasciitis, diabetes, arthritis, and more.
Additionally, the included orthotic insole and arch booster provide an extra level of comfort and support that is hard to find in other shoes on the market.
While these sneakers receive high praise for their comfort and foot support, the design may not be everyone’s cup of tea in terms of fashion.
Additionally, the fit may not be perfect for those with severe foot swelling. It’s essential to consider the balance between style and function when making your decision.
Pros
- Laceless design with bungee laces for quick and easy wear
- Ergonomic soles designed for comfort and support
- Suitable for various foot conditions with premium orthotic insoles and arch boosters
Cons
- May not provide maximum support for all-day wear
- Aesthetically, not the most fashionable choice
- Fit may not be perfect for those with severe foot swelling
8. Dansko Paisley Waterproof Outdoor Sneakers for Women
Dansko's Paisley Sneakers are designed to offer nurses a comfortable and stylish option for those long hours on their feet.
Made with 100% leather, the imported shoes feature a manmade sole and are treated for moisture management and odor reduction.
This ensures that your feet stay dry and fresh throughout your shift.
The triple-density footbed in these sneakers is built to provide superior support and shock absorption.
It includes Dansko’s Natural Arch technology and a built-in shank for added stability.
These shoes accommodate most orthotic inserts, making them a versatile choice for nurses with specific foot support needs.
However, some users have reported initial discomfort, especially around the shoe’s tie-off point.
That being said, once the shoes have been broken in, the comfort and support they provide make it well worth the investment.
Pros
- Comfortable, breathable walking shoes with arch support
- Scotchgard treated waterproof upper for protection in inclement weather
- Vibram slip-resistant rubber outsole suitable for various surfaces
Cons
- Potential discomfort at the tie-off point during initial use
- May require break-in period for optimal fit and comfort
- Higher price point compared to competitors
9. Orthofeet Coral Women’s Sneakers
The Coral Women's Sneakers from Orthofeet are designed with a focus on providing exceptional comfort and support for those who spend long hours on their feet, such as nurses.
With their Ethylene Vinyl Acetate sole and anatomic arch-support, these shoes aim to provide a cloud-like walking experience, easing the strain on your feet during long shifts.
Furthermore, these sneakers are engineered to benefit individuals suffering from over 20 different foot-related conditions.
Among those conditions are plantar fasciitis, diabetes, arthritis, and bunions.
The accompanying premium orthotic insole and arch booster aim to provide innovative comfort, arch support, and advanced pain relief to keep you going throughout the day.
However, it’s essential to consider some of the drawbacks of these sneakers.
The arch support depends on plastic inserts that you place under the insole, which may not be ideal for everyone.
Additionally, some users have reported sizing inconsistencies, so it’s crucial to try them on before committing to a pair.
Finally, the price may be a significant factor for some, as orthopedic footwear tends to be more expensive than non-specialized options.
Pros
- Ethylene Vinyl Acetate sole for durability and comfort
- Anatomic arch-support and heel cushioning for a cloud-like walking experience
- Beneficial for 20+ foot-related conditions, including plantar fasciitis, diabetes, and bunions
Cons
- Arch support relies on plastic inserts, not built-in
- Sizing may be inconsistent for some users
- Expensive compared to non-orthopedic footwear
10. Orthofeet Wichita Stretchable Women’s Shoes
Orthofeet Wichita-Black Stretchable Women's casual shoes provide exceptional comfort and fit by utilizing a non-binding design, additional toe room, and superior protection against pressure points.
The shoes are suitable for nurses dealing with a variety of conditions, including plantar fasciitis, diabetes, neuropathy, and arthritis.
The Wichita offers a hook and loop strap, allowing for maximum adjustability and easy foot insertion.
It also includes anatomical orthotic insoles and ergonomic soles that grant comfortable support and excellent cushioning, making it a top orthopedic shoe choice for nurses.
The heel cushion and ergonomic sole further enhance walking comfort, so you can move through your day with ease.
Constructed with 100% leather and a polyurethane sole, these shoes offer durability without compromising style.
The rubber outsole also provides advanced grip and excellent stability, ensuring a sense of security during long nursing shifts.
Pros
- Superior comfort with stretchable uppers
- Ergonomic sole with advanced grip
- Beneficial for 20+ conditions including plantar fasciitis, diabetes, and arthritis
Cons
- May seem unattractive to some
- Possibly too wide in the heel for some individuals
- Might not be a perfect fit for all foot shapes
Buying Guide
When looking for the best orthopedic shoes for your nursing needs, it’s essential to consider the specific features and aspects that will provide you with the necessary support and comfort throughout your long shifts.
Comfort and Fit
As a nurse, you spend countless hours on your feet. It’s crucial to invest in shoes that offer a comfortable fit and proper cushioning.
Ensure the shoes have ample arch support and a padded collar to prevent rubbing against your feet.
Try them on and make sure they don’t pinch or slide around, which can cause discomfort and blisters.
Durability and Material
Your shoes must be made from high-quality materials that can withstand the demands of your work environment.
Look for shoes with a slip-resistant outsole, as spills and wet floors are common in the nursing field.
Additionally, opt for materials that are easy to clean and maintain, like leather or synthetic materials.
Support and Stability
Good orthopedic shoes will provide you with adequate support and stability, especially if you have existing foot issues or want to prevent them in the future.
Look for shoes that have a firm heel counter and shank to provide stability and keep your feet aligned correctly.
You’ll also want ample cushioning, especially in the heel and ball of the foot, to help absorb shocks while walking or standing.
Style and Functionality
While appearance may not be your top priority, it’s still essential to find shoes that align with your workplace dress code and personal preferences.
Consider whether you need enclosed shoes or prefer a more open design like clogs.
Also, keep in mind any functional features that can make your life easier, such as slip-on designs or removable insoles.
Key Takeaways
By taking into consideration these features – comfort and fit, durability and material, support and stability, and style and functionality – you’ll be well on your way to finding the best orthopedic shoes for your nursing career.
Remember to invest in a high-quality pair that satisfies your specific needs, as your feet deserve the best care and comfort possible.
Have You Read These Yet?
- Best Shoes For Nurses with Bunions
- The Best On Cloud Shoes For Nurses Who Stand All Day
- Best 12-Hour Shift Shoes
- The Best Brooks Shoes For Nurses Who Stand All Day
