Not all shoes are created equal and that holds true when it comes to men’s shoes.

Men- particularly ones in the nursing profession- need supportive footwear that is reliable and able to withstand a lot of physical activity.

To help you in your search, I’ve put together the best nursing shoes for men.

*Disclosure: This post may contain affiliate links. If you click and make a purchase, I may receive a commission. For more info, please see my disclaimer.

The Top Picks

After hours of research and testing, I found the New Balance 1540 V3 to be the best shoe for male nurses. As a nurse who has a history of foot aches and pain, I understand the importance of having quality shoes during your nursing shift.

New Balance Men's 1540 V3 Running Shoe
The New Balance Men's 1540 V3 running shoe is made with premium materials and technologies for those who are serious about durability and comfort. Constructed with ENCAP midsole technology, this shoe combines lightweight foam with a polyurethane rim to help deliver all-day support and impressive durability. The design features a ROLLBAR system for added stability, and the breathable uppers are made of mesh and synthetic materials.

I believe the 1540 V3 New Balance shoe provides just the right amount of comfort and durability that has long been expected from New Balance. The 1540 V3 does provide good ankle stability because of its rigid sole, but unfortunately, that does make the shoe a bit heavy on the feet.

When wearing it, I noticed I was most comfortable while standing than walking. It’s not necessarily a bad thing. From experience, a good walking shoe is not necessarily a good standing shoe and vice versa.

While wearing the shoe, I did use this New Balance arch supports, even though I think I would have been just fine without them.

These aren’t bad-looking shoes, and luckily the color options are neutral enough to fit with most scrubs or casual attire. With that said, these are not the nicest-looking shoes you’re going to see.

If style is important to you, then the Allbirds Men’s Tree Dashers should be on the top of your list.

Allbirds Men’s Tree Dashers

The Tree Dasher is the ultimate in lightweight comfort and versatility. This men’s running shoe is engineered for comfort and style. Whether you’re running to a code or leisurely passing meds, the Tree Dasher will keep your feet light, dry, and amazingly comfortable.

They’re comfortable, stylish, and come in many different colors, so accessorizing with them is a breeze.

The last one at the top of my list is the Adidas Alphabounce Beyond Running Shoe. It’s a comfortable shoe that I really like that has mesh fabric on the upper portion of the shoe. The mesh upper makes the shoe easier to walk in and helps with breathability reducing smelly and stinky feet.

Adidas Alphabounce Beyond m Running Shoe
Designed for overpronators and mild supinators, the Alphabounce Beyond is a running shoe that adapts to your life. It features a mesh upper and a seamless toe-box that delivers a comfortable, secure fit. It has a lightweight, flexible response and an energized Bounce cushioning system for all-day comfort and a smooth, efficient stride. The Alphabounce Beyond also features a high-abrasion rubber outsole that delivers a smooth, efficient stride on a variety of surfaces.

I always get neutral-colored shoes (so shades of black and grey). Still, if having color options to accessorize is important to you, the Adidas Alphabounce gives you many color options.

Best Shoes for Male Nurses

1. Men’s Adrenaline GTS 19 Running Shoe

Brooks Mens Adrenaline GTS 19 Running Shoe - Blue/Nightlife/Black - D - 12.0
  • SHOE SIZE: "D" = Medium width, "EE" = Wide width, "B" = Narrow width, "EEEE" = Extra wide width
  • FOOT SUPPORT: Ideal for runners with all arches looking for support. Our new Guiderail Support...
  • CUSHIONED FEEL: Soft and protective, these shoes provide just the right amount of cushion in each...

The perfect balance of structure and softness, this Men’s Adrenaline GTS 19 Running Shoe is an excellent option for male nurses with all different types of arches.

The BioMoGo DNA and DNA LOFT cushioning provide just the right amount of support mid-foot so that arches are supported- even flat or high arches.

Although the midsole is cushioned sufficiently, it’s also durable enough to bounce back with each step.

What makes this shoe truly special is the GuideRails Holistic Support System which starts by keeping the feet stable and solid, thus preventing knee injuries and knee pain.

Even better is the look of the shoe- from the 3D Fit Print upper with mesh detail down to the slip-resistant rubberized sole, you’ll love the streamlined and modern look that this shoe has to offer.

Pros:

  • Cushioned midsole support
  • Mesh upper
  • GuideRails Holistic Support System

Cons:

  • Support is more soft than firm
  • Narrow sizing may require a wider version
  • Shoe curves at the toe

Check the current price of the Brooks Men’s Adrenaline GTS 19 Running Shoe.

2. Merrell Men’s Encore Gust Slip-On Shoe

Merrell Men's Encore Gust Slip-On Shoe
  • Polished slip-on with supportive sole unit and padded collar
  • Merrell air cushion in the heel absorbs shock. Compression molded EVA footframe for stability and...
  • Ortholite footbed.Encore sticky rubber outsole delivers flexibility and reduces foot and leg...

Slip-on shoes are an ideal choice for male nurses as they are a mix between a sneaker and a clog. These Merrell Men’s Encore Gust Slip-On Shoe is no exception.

The ease of a slip-on shoe combines with the durability and flexibility that the Merrell brand has been known for since 1981.

That durability is the very thing that makes these shoes such a great option for male nurses.

The upper portion of the shoe is made from 100% full-grain leather which covers a breathable mesh lining.

The leather lends a sophisticated look while the mesh lining keeps moisture away from the feet, preventing sweating and slippage.

The midsole is cushioned and supportive with the heel portion containing extra cushioning to absorb shock with each and every step.

The rubber outsole sticks firmly to any surface, keeping you safe during each shift.

Pros:

  • Convenient slip-on design
  • 100% full-grain leather upper
  • Sturdy rubber outsole

Cons:

  • Only comes in 2 colors- black and brown
  • Loose fit
  • May leave scuff marks on light surfaces

Check the current price of the Merrell Men’s Encore Gust Slip-On Shoe.

3. Brooks Men’s Addiction Walking Shoe

Brooks Mens Addiction Walker Walking Shoe - Brown - B - 7.0
  • SHOE SIZE: "D" = Medium width, "EE" = Wide width, "B" = Narrow width, "EEEE" = Extra wide width
  • MAXIMUM SUPPORT: Our Extended Progressive Diagonal Rollbar strategically supports your arch to guide...
  • SLIP-RESISTANT, SECURE FIT: The forefoot MC Pod construction and an innovative outsole sets your...

Nurses walk, on average, 4 to 5 miles during each 12-hour shift. That makes comfortable walking shoes a necessity.

These Brooks Men’s Addiction Walking Shoes are very comfortable and lightweight.

They also look cool due to the 100% genuine leather upper and three classic color options- white, brown, and black.

In addition to looking and feeling great, these shoes provide support for male nurses that suffer from flat feet, overpronation, and other foot disorders.

The feet and the rest of the body are supported by the Extended Progressive Diagonal Rollbar that stays with you with each stride so that every step is fully supported.

Joints are also protected with the BioMoGo DNA cushioning at the midsole that molds to each individual foot so that the perfect mix of support and softness is felt with each step.

Pros:

  • 100% leather upper
  • Extended Progressive Diagonal Rollbar supports each stride
  • BioMoGo DNA midsole cushioning molds to the foot

Cons:

  • Not very breathable
  • Slightly narrow and may require a wide size
  • Laces are long

Check availability of the Brooks Men’s Addiction Walking Shoes.

Related Article: What Are the Best Shoes for Nurses with Plantar Fasciitis?

4. Nike Men’s Air Monarch IV Cross Trainer

Nike Men's Air Monarch IV Cross Trainer, White/Black, 6
  • NIKE SHOES MEN: The Nike Air Monarch IV (4E) Training Shoe for Men sets you up for a comfortable...
  • DURABLE LEATHER: Men's sneakers are made with leather upper features for durability and support,...
  • CUSHIONED COMFORT & DURABLE SUPPORT: A lightweight foam midsole with full-length encapsulated...

The name says it all- these Nike Men’s Air Monarch IV Cross Trainer literally will have you feeling like you’re walking on air.

Nurses that have to stand on their feet for a long shift will appreciate the support and cushioning that only Nike Air’s can provide.

The signature Air-Sole unit supports the foot from toe to heel, making them one of the most comfortable pairs of shoes a nurse can own.

The signature “swoosh” symbol emblazons the side of the shoe, which comes in five appealing color combinations- black/black, white/silver/navy, white/black, white/gray/anthracite, and white/black/red.

The mesh tongue allows air to flow in and around the foot so even the sweatiest feet have some breathability.

They are also sturdy thanks to the rubber outsole that provides traction on even the most slippery surfaces.

Pros:

  • Air-Sole unit fully supports the foot
  • 5 cool color options
  • Mesh tongue offers breathability

Cons:

  • Squeaky on solid surfaces
  • Narrow and may require a larger size
  • Shoe is heavy

Check the price of the Nike Men’s Air Monarch IV Cross Trainer.

5. Sanita Men’s Professional Cabrio Clog

Sanita Pro Cabrio Professional Clogs for Men - Arch Support, Durable, Closed-Back Slip-On Shoes
  • PROFESSIONAL CLOGS FOR MEN: The Cabrio style features a black cabrio leather upper with a padded...
  • DURABLE, SHOCK ABSORBING OUTSOLE: Put some distance between your feet and those hard, concrete...
  • ARCH SUPPORT AND COMFORT: So comfy! A soft footbed adds cushioning, wicks sweat and provides...

Clogs are the go-to shoe for many male nurses because they are so comfortable and easy to put on.

They simply slip right on and you’re ready to go about your busy day of taking care of patients- no tying of laces required.

These Sanita Men’s Professional Cabrio Clogs provide all of those benefits and more.

Since 1907, Sanita has been making clogs with superior craftsmanship so they really know their stuff.

They brought all of that experience to the forefront when they made this shoe.

It all starts with the 100% genuine leather upper.

The platform bottom is made from durable polyurethane in a rocker formation so that each step flows perfectly from heel to toe.

There’s also a supportive footbed that is ideal for nurses with high or low arches.

You’ll also appreciate the wide toe box which helps avoid painful, cramped toes at the end of a long shift.

Pros:

  • Slip-on design
  • 100% leather upper
  • Polyurethane rocker bottom

Cons:

  • Only comes in black
  • Side-stitching may fray
  • Soles can split

Check the price of the Sanita Men’s Professional Clog.

6. Dansko Men’s Wynn Slip-On

Dansko Men's Wynn Brown Casual Shoes 7.5-8 M US
  • Slip-resistant outsole meets the highest standards of slipresistance
  • All leather for easy wipe clean outter, additional cushioning and superiorshock-absorption built...
  • Dansko Arch support built in for all day support and comfort perfect for someone on their feet

The Men’s Wynn Slip-On from Dansko takes comfort and elegance to the next level.

Made from 100% genuine leather, they are the perfect mix of casual and sophistication.

The casual look of a slip-on combines with the richness of leather, making them an ideal shoe for any male nurse looking for comfortable and stylish shoes to wear during a long shift.

Since 1990, Dansko has been making quality shoes that help nurses avoid foot, ankle, knee, and back problems.

Each shoe comes with Dansko’s superior construction and quality, from the smooth leather exterior to the cushioned insole that molds to the foot to the non-slip rubber outsole that keeps nurses safe during even the toughest situations.

There’s plenty of arch support for those that need it and the padded collar means no more blisters or abrasions on the back of your ankles.

Pros:

  • 100% genuine leather upper
  • Cushioned insole molds to the foot
  • Padded collar keeps blisters away

Cons:

  • Only 3 colors available
  • Requires shoe polish to maintain the shine
  • Not breathable

Check the price of the Dansko Men’s Wynn Slip-On Clog.

Related Article: 5 Best Dansko Nurse Shoes

7. Reebok Classic Harman Run Sneaker

Reebok Classic Harman Run Sneaker, black/gum, 4 M US
  • DURABLE AND LIGHTWEIGHT MATERIAL: These sneakers feature synthetic upper that is supportive and...
  • EFFICIENT FOOT SUPPORT: These stylish trainers with die-cut EVA midsole provides support which lasts...
  • COMFORTABLE AND STURDY DESIGN: This footwear with the Low-cut, freestyle design offers mobility at...

The Reebok Classic Harman Run Sneaker combines the richness and sophistication of leather with the laid-back style of a sneaker.

Nine great color combinations boast desirable features like a low-cut design, padded foam sock liner, cushioned midsole, and sturdy rubber outsole.

When it comes to the cushioned midsole, not many brands can rival Reebok.

Made from die-cut EVA, the midsole on this shoe provides the ideal mix of cushioning and support for nurses with all types of arches.

The padded foam sock liner adds an extra layer of cushioning so that every step feels comfortable and soft.

With nurses encountering many different challenges during their shifts, a solid shoe is a necessity.

The non-slip rubber outsole provides plenty of traction on a variety of surfaces so you always remain on your feet and taking care of the patients that need you.

Pros:

  • Padded foam sockliner
  • Die-cut EVA midsole
  • Non-slip rubber outsole

Cons:

Check the price of the Reebok Classic Harman Sneaker.

Related Article: 5 Best Reebok Nurse Shoes

8. Adidas Men’s Alphabounce Beyond Running Shoe

adidas Men's Alphabounce Beyond Running Shoe, Grey/Grey/Grey, 10.5 M US
  • Runner type: Neutral shoes offer flexibility and versatility, with premium cushioning; Weight: 12.2...
  • Bounce cushioning provides enhanced comfort and flexibility
  • Seamless Forgedmesh upper designed with areas of support and stretch to help ensure a custom fit...

Bounce your way through the work day with these Adidas Men’s Alphabounce Beyond Running Shoes.

The name says it all as these shoes are extremely lightweight and bouncing due to the superior cushioning provided at the midsole.

The upper portion of the shoe fits like a second skin, snugly and securely holding the foot in place from the moment you put it on.

There are also 10 appealing color options to choose from in a cool, sock-like style.

The features don’t end there.

There’s also mesh fabric on the upper portion of the shoe that moves with the foot, offering flexibility and breathability.

The rubber outsole is built to withstand even the most slippery conditions like wet tile floors.

You’ll feel energized as soon as you put them on and ready to tackle whatever your workday throws at you.

Pros:

  • Lightweight design
  • Mesh upper provides flexibility
  • Sturdy rubber outsole offers plenty of traction

Cons:

  • May need to wiggle feet to slide shoes on
  • Not made for running
  • Lacing is complicated

Check the price of the Adidas Men’s Alphabounce Running Shoe.

Related Article: 5 Best Adidas Nursing Shoes

9. Under Armour Men’s Charged Rogue Running Shoe

Under Armour Men's Charged Rogue Running Shoe, Royal (403)/White, 7
  • NEUTRAL: For runners who need flexibility, cushioning & versatility
  • Engineered mesh upper is extremely lightweight & breathable, with strategic support where you need...
  • Lightweight, external heel counter for additional support that keeps the back of the foot locked in...

The Under Armour Men’s Charged Rogue Running Shoe can take you right from working in the office or hospital to outside pounding the pavement.

Even in low-light conditions, this shoe performs well due to the 360-degree reflectivity on the outside of the shoe.

That added layer of protection keeps you visible when you’re walking out of work late at night or running in the dark.

Under Armour had safety in mind when they created this shoe, from the reflective exterior to the external heel counter that keeps the back of the foot locked in place so there’s less risk of injuries occurring.

The rubber outsole is another safety feature that provides traction and support on a variety of different surfaces.

With 14 cool color combinations and a lightweight, mesh upper, this shoe is ideal for male nurses who also enjoy running.

Pros:

  • 360-degree reflectivity on the exterior
  • The external heel counter locks the foot in place
  • 14 attractive color combinations

Cons:

  • Runs slightly small
  • Narrow toe box
  • Mesh upper tears easily

Check the price of the Under Armour Men’s Charged Rogue Running Shoe.

10. Hoka One One Men’s Arahi Running Shoe

The Hoka One One Men’s Arahi Running Shoe just screams cool.

From the uniquely-designed upper that comes in 6 awesome color options to the 3D Puff Print Frame on the lower portion of the shoe, you’ll be the most stylish male nurse on the floor with these on your feet.

The appealing look of the shoe isn’t the only reason these are an ideal choice.

There are also plenty of interior features that make them rock.

The padded tongue stays in place so no rubbing or irritation occurs at the top of the foot.

The mesh upper allows air to flow in and around the foot, keeping feet cool and dry all day long.

The Meta-Rocker midsole allows for a smooth transition from heel to toe so each stride is effortless and comfortable.

The durable rubber outsole keeps everything sturdy and in place while you tend to patients.

Pros:

  • Breathable mesh upper
  • Meta-Rocker midsole
  • Solid rubber outsole

Cons:

  • Sizing runs small
  • Grass sticks inside bottom treads
  • May need breaking in

Check the price of the Hoka Men’s Arahi Running Shoes.

Related Article: What are the best Hoka shoes for nurses?

Shoe Buying Guide for Nurses

This is a shortened version. If you want to see our complete shoe buying guide for nurses, check out the linked article.

1. Breathable Fabric

Shoes that aren’t made from breathable fabrics can lead to sweaty, hot, smelly feet.

Breathable fabrics, like mesh and cotton, allow air to flow in and around the foot while the shoes are being worn, so your feet stay cool, comfortable, and dry.

2. Rubber Outsole

The bottom of a shoe may not seem important, but it’s actually the most important feature.

Shoes that slip on hard surfaces can be a danger to the person wearing them and those around them.

Rubber is the best option for an outsole because it provides plenty of traction on hard surfaces like:

  • Wood
  • Tile
  • Linoleum

3. Padded Tongue

If you’ve ever taken off your shoes and had the top of your feet covered in blisters and abrasions, you know why a padded tongue is so important.

Pro Tip:
Part of getting the right shoe and taking care of your feet is knowing when you should replace your shoe.

Tongues with extra padding provide an extra layer of material between the foot and the laces so less rubbing occurs, thus resulting in fewer blisters, cuts, and other skin irritations.

4. External Heel Counter

An external heel counter locks the rear of the foot in place so you’re less likely to twist your ankle or have your foot slip and result in other injuries.

This is particularly important for nurses who work on a variety of different flooring surfaces that may become slippery at times due to materials like bodily fluids, medications, and chemicals.

5. Color Options

a guy nurse's shoe
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In the past, nurses were only allowed to wear white shoes.

Times have changed and more and more medical facilities are allowing their nurses to express their personal style with their shoes.

Color options like pink, teal, and red have become popular with nurses, but some employers still require a specific dress code.

It’s best to check your employee handbook before purchasing new shoes.

6. Slip-On Design

Slip-on shoes are desirable for a variety of different reasons.

For example they:

  • Are easy to put on
  • Never require re-tying of shoelaces
  • Look casual and laid-back
  • Fit comfortably

Slip-on shoes sometimes are referred to as clogs or crocs.

Pay attention to the materials used on the bottom of slip-on shoes and ensure they come with a rubber outsole for traction control since it’s an important safety feature.

Final Thoughts

Male nurses have different needs than female nurses when it comes to shoes but one thing remains the same- we all want them to be comfortable.

All of these shoes deliver on that promise.

By being comfortable, you can focus more on your patients and less on painful, sore feet.

Related Article

Frequently Asked Questions

  1. What are the most comfortable shoes for male nurses?

    One of the most comfortable shoes for male nurses is the Men’s Adrenaline GTS by Brooks.

  2. What shoes do nurses recommend?

    Many nurses will recommend Dansko shoes for women and New Balance shoes for men.

  3. Can nurses wear any shoes?

    For administrative positions nurses should probably wear dress shoes. For patient care positions you’ll find sneakers or tennis shoes are better suited for those positions.

  4. What Nike shoes are best for nurses?

    Nurses looking for comfortable work shoes should consider the Nike Tanjun Running Shoes. For more recommendations check out our article on the top nike shoes for nurses.