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For surgical residents, how do Danskos compare to STAND+ AntiGrav1s for comfort, support, durability, breathability?

Comfort - Dansko is a clog with a rocker bottom with firm, heavy materials that require some breakin but soften over time. STAND+ AntiGrav1s are noticeably lighter and more forgiving underfoot, with a softer step that’s designed for long hours on hard floors. Will come down to whether you like a firmer platform (Dansko) or a lighter, more cushioned feel (AntiGrav1). It's less of an issue if you're standing in one place, but if you get a lot of steps in, heavier clogs (and heavier shoes in general) will lead to a higher level of foot and muscle fatigue during the day.

Support - Danskos have a rigid clog structure and heel-to-toe rocker that's stable, but you might feel the heel lift in your knees and low back over long shifts. STAND+ AntiGrav1s have a flatter, stable base and are custom moldable, so you can dial in fit and pressure points. If you like “structured and elevated,” go with Dansko. If you prefer “flat and stable,” STAND+ AntiGrav1.

Durability - Danskos win here with leather uppers, polyurethane soles, and rubber heels (all naturally durable materials). STAND+ AntiGrav1 uses ultralight, closed-cell compounds, so it tends to win on comfort and weight. The tradeoff is whether you want the longest lifespan vs. a lighter, softer day-to-day feel. In general, both should hold up at least 1–2 years in rotation with Dankos a little longer.

Breathability - Dansko leather can run warm, but a lot depends on the specific model and how much you sweat. STAND+ AntiGrav1 is a closed-cell construction, so it won’t absorb fluids, and there are protected ventillation holes on the side to facilitate airflow. Neither style will breathe as much as a mesh running shoe, but both will offer protection from fluids/spills. Socks that wick moisture are your best bet to get closer to a mesh running shoe feel.

Fluid protection - Dansko’s closed upper doesn't allow fluids in. Go with one of the sealed styles since the natural grain leathers will absorb fluids. They have stitching, so be mindful of cleaning those areas extra well if you come in contact with fluids. STAND+ AntiGrav1s don't have seams or fabrics that soak or hold fluids, and the closed cell material means there's a full fluid barrier protection. There's a study on them here: https://nurse.org/articles/gales-report-nurse-shoe-contamination/ the only footwear tested in a medical setting to successfully prevent strikethrough.

Cleanability - Dansko is straightforward to wipe down just make sure you get a version with a sealed upper, not natural leather. STAND+ AntiGrav1 are bleachable and machine washable, so you can wipe on the go, bleach if needed or throw them in the wash. If you want the easiest daily wipe, both work. If you want easy deep clean, go with STAND+ AntiGrav1.

Price - Dansko ranges from $145-170. STAND+ AntiGrav1 ranges from $110-$120.

Color options - Dansko has a wide range of natural leather tones + floral/glitter patterns. STAND+ AntiGrav1 have neutrals and bright color pops.

Both brands will take back shoes in their original condition, so whichever you decide on, I'd suggest try them on at home on carpet or clean floors over the weekend or on a day you aren't working to get a feel for them. Bottoms are easy enough to wipe off on both so they look brand new and can be returned if they aren't a fit.

Lastly, biggest decision is really style preference. Clog culture is a real thing, as is sneaker culture. Hopefully this helps outline the key differences. If you have specific models you're looking at or questions on features, let me know and I'm happy to help provide any further info.