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A solid pair of high-quality sneakers is essential to the nursing profession. Logging long hours in the E.R., making your way back and forth between the nurses’ station, standing next to beds as you comfort and care for patients — a nurse’s work is no joke. If you're in the field, you understand that comfort is a priority over anything else, considering how often you're on your feet during 12-hour (and sometimes even 14-hour) shifts. It's not dramatic to say that the difference between a successful and challenging day can come down to your shoes.

“There are several reasons why nurses need to wear the right shoes,” says Dr. Bruce Pinker of New York’s Progressive Foot Care. “Because nurses are typically standing or walking, or at times, possibly running, their footwear needs to fit properly and be comfortable.”

To better serve your patients (and your feet, back, and joints in the process) and help you decide which shoes suit fatigued nurses best, Shape asked real-life people in the profession what their go-to shoes are when the scrubs are on. We then ensured each had a podiatrist's stamp of approval for comfort and durability.

Whether you're in the healthcare field or are looking for the best gift for nurses, these shoes are a homerun.

There’s a high probability that if you ask a group of nurses what their go-to shoes are for long shifts, many will say that they can’t live without Hoka’s Bondi 8 Sneakers. In fact, that is exactly what happened when the Shape team reached out to friends and family members in the nursing field to inquire about their favorite pairs — many provided the same answer, noting that this style’s comfortability takes the cake during long shifts.

One New York-based nurse working 12-hour shifts in the pediatric ICU claims she “honestly never thinks about how [her] feet feel from the start of the shift to the end because these shoes are so comfortable.” Another NYC nurse (who stands during long commutes and long working hours) notes that the Bondi 8s helped her “super bad back pain from being on [her] feet all day,” thanks to the shoe’s supreme cushioning. This shoe’s extended heel provides support, unlike any other sneaker, while the memory foam collar and plush “walking on clouds” feel prevent soreness after being on your feet all day. 

In addition to these recommendations, the Shape team has tested these shoes extensively, and dubbed them one of the best Hoka shoes on the market.

There are many reasons why New Balance continues to score high marks from real-life nurses, including its selection of budget-friendly options. As Dr. Pinker says, “New Balance has some relatively low to moderately-priced sneakers that are well-constructed and supportive.” Translation? You’ll get plenty of bang for your buck. The FuelCore Nergize V1 Sneaker is a fan favorite with a lot of love in the nursing community, considering it's noticeably lightweight with a breathable mesh fabric, feels more flexible than other shoes for nurses on the market, and offers maximum comfort with the brand's NB Memory Sole Comfort Insert, which is essentially a built-in shoe insole.

Time and time again, New Balance has been chosen as a favorite for nurses who need nothing more than a no-frills, supremely supportive shoe. “New Balance sneakers are a top choice due to their excellent construction and choice of many different widths to help provide appropriate fitting,” says Dr. Pinker. The 608 V5 Cross Trainers offer three widths to ensure the perfect fit on all types of feet, a sturdy leather upper, a foam insert providing ample cushioning, and a grippy outsole (hello, traction). Even if the floor gets messy or slick at work, you won’t experience slippage, and the exterior is easier to clean than other nursing shoes on the market.

If there’s anything nurses deserve, it’s an easier way to do menial tasks like putting on their shoes. Enter the Clove Classic, slip-on sneakers designed specifically for nurses. This sleek pair is outfitted with adjustable drawstring laces to make slipping these on and off a seamless task, not to mention the fluid-resistant vegan leather material is easy to clean (a factor that one NYC-based oncology nurse describes as simply “HUGE.”). They’re “super comfortable” and “durable,” according to this same nurse, and even slip-resistant according to ASTM F3445 standards according to the brand — a must for a mess-prone profession like nursing. 

If you're a nurse wanting a shoe that is just as easy to slip on as it is supportive, the Kane Revive shoe is perfect. There are many standout design features of this shoe. "Its lightweight construction will ensure no extra energy is expended being on the feet all day, and the dual-density foam will provide both cushion and excellent control," says Dr. Daniel Geller, DPM, Chief Medical Officer at Kane Footwear and Sports Podiatrist, Foot and Ankle Surgeon. "The 9mm heel lift will protect the Achilles tendon and lower leg from overuse." He also notes the "smooth and effortless transfer from heel to toe." The slip-on, washable design additionally works well for nurses needing nothing more than a no-fuss pair of shoes for their shifts.

This is also a great recovery shoe option that nurses with tired feet can slip on after their shifts. "I wear these after marathons and they help my feet feel alive again," says Summer Cartwright, Shape's senior editor. "They're lightweight and easy to throw in a bag during travel or commutes, too."

Not all nurses opt for sneakers, as clogs can sometimes be easier to clean and take on and off while offering optimal support for long shifts. One Texas-based NICU nurse (who’s been in the profession for decades) swears by these OOFOS, noting that when she “pairs these clogs with some good compression socks, [she’s] invincible.” She states: “I can stand and walk all day, and they’re also great for my plantar fasciitis.” 

This shoe features the brand’s signature OOfoam technology, which significantly reduces foot, back, and joint pain by absorbing more of your impact (37% more, to be exact) when walking in and out of patients’ rooms all day long. They’re even machine-washable and have an exterior that’s easy to wipe clean. 

If you’re looking for the best shoes for nurses working 12-hour night shifts, be sure to consider how easy your pair will be to clean (not just how comfortable they’ll be). Hoka’s Bondi SR Sneakers are constructed with water-resistant leather, so shoe stains are the least of your worries during each strenuous shift. “The liquid-resistant [design] is key in the emergency department — I can wipe off whatever gets on them during my shifts,” says one Connecticut-based emergency room nurse. Plus, the EVA midsole, memory foam collar, and the brand’s trademarked Meta-Rocker technology (which promotes easy movement) prove that the Bondi SR is just as comfortable as its other Hoka counterparts. 

Best Lightweight Shoes for Nurses

Hoka Clifton 9


Sizes: 5-12 | Colors: 19

"Hokas Clifton 9s are a no-brainer for me and my absolute go-to's," says one NYC-based nurse — the Shape team can understand why. This version of Hoka's standout Clifton style is extremely lightweight. The upper is designed with no unnecessary or weight-bearing bells and whistles, and the shoe still provides the brand's signature comfort for the wearer. Plus, with three millimeters added to the shoe's stack height, this version offers even more support for your weary feet. "When you're on your feet for 12 hours straight, you need sneakers that can withstand that and cushion your feet... these Hokas do exactly that," states the same nurse, solidifying this pair as a clear winner.

Most Supportive Shoes for Nurses

New Balance Women's Fresh Foam X Kaiha Road


As one wise nurse friend once said: "The bigger the cushion and sole of a shoe, the better." New Balance's Fresh Foam X Kaiha Road Sneakers are her go-to shoes because of their super-tall stack height. These cushioned running shoes feel plush underneath your feet and can support your joints throughout the long day. Despite the softer feel on your feet, you can rest assured knowing that these shoes are sturdy enough to prevent you from slipping around on the hospital floor, thanks to the thick rubber outsole.

Keep in mind that the mesh construction of this pair helps your feet breathe when sporting during your shifts, though it can be trickier to clean when any fluids hit its surface.

Best Shoes for Nurses for Overpronation Prevention

Asics Gel-Kayano 31


If you tend to overpronate, then it's crucial to pick out a pair of nursing shoes that won't make this issue worse, considering "you log a lot of miles," as one Texas-based NICU nurse declares. This same nurse is a huge fan of these Asics running shoes. They're constructed with many stability features like a "guidance system" technology to balance out your feet whenever you take a step.

Shape Writer Madison Barber has relied on Asics her whole life to help her overpronation and prevent shin splints. She gives her stamp of approval to anyone needing a pair to keep their feet steady, whether they're walking or running.

Best Cushioned Shoes for Nurses

On Cloudtilt


When searching for the best shoes for nurses, the choices are often Hoka vs. On. One NYC-based nurse sought "really good walking shoes with a lot of sole support and cushioning," leading her to purchase her current favorite pair of On Cloudtilt Sneakers. "I feel like my feet and legs hurt a lot less in these at the end of my shifts compared to other sneakers I've tried," she states. The Shape team is not surprised — these shoes are not only popular for their sleek design but also because of their lightweight feel, achieved by the brand's CloudTec Phase technology that provides tons of extra cushioning in the midsole. Not to mention the unique speed laces make pulling these on and off a seamless process after an hours-long, exhausting shift.

What to Know About the Best Shoes for Nurses

  • Shoe style: Dr. Pinker reiterates what you likely already know: sneakers are ideal, and in some cases, clogs make for appropriate footwear. “Some nurses may be dealing with critical patients who are very ill," he adds, noting that foot pain could prevent nurses from carrying out their responsibilities or being quick to respond to patient needs. "Being able to move adeptly to address a patient's concerns is essential for a nurse, and this action is empowered by wearing proper footwear to encourage effective ambulation."
  • Fit: “Foot deformities may develop in nurses from wearing improper footwear, such as bunions, hammertoes, neuromas, as well as ingrown toenails, sores, and blisters," says Dr. Pinker. "These can be very painful conditions that prevent nurses from walking and standing while caring for patients.” This means avoiding shoes that are loose-fitting, too narrow, or too tight — according to Dr. Pinker, these types of shoes can cause nurses to trip and fall or walk improperly, “which can impede their workflow.”
  • Cushioning: That thick sole and cushy padding on the bottom of your shoe? It’s doing a lot more than making your feet feel comfy. Actually, cushioning is there for shock absorption and can help relieve pain in your knees, ankles, and hips. To keep your feet as pain-free as possible, Dr. Pinker recommends looking for a shoe with “a cushioned and shock-absorbing midsole and insole.” Plus, the right level of cushioning will prevent foot fatigue, leaving your legs feeling energized even after a 12-hour shift.
  • Support: Supportive shoes will keep your spine in proper alignment and ease any pressure off your spine (say goodbye to back pain at the end of the day!). Supportive shoes also make you more stable, prevent falls and slips, and make your feet feel much more comfortable. For this, you’ll want to look for shoes with “appropriate arch support,” as Dr. Pinker says. For people with flat feet/low arches, you’ll want that support to redistribute the pressure around your foot and have better biomechanics while standing or walking. For those with high arches, support is necessary so you can close the gap between your foot and shoe while encouraging improved posture.
  • Tread: Non-slip features on the outsole of shoes for nurses will help provide good traction, “which can help prevent slippage if there is liquid or objects on the floor,” says Dr. Pinker. Look for details like thick soles made of rubber with traction-encouraging patterns like lines or squiggles). 

Frequently Asked Questions

  • What should nurses look for in a nursing shoe?

    Considering nurses spend most of their shifts on their feet, proper foot care and foot health are crucial, notes Dr. Geller. Plus, hospital floors tend to be "hard and unforgiving," as he puts it. "I encourage nurses to look for a shoe that’s supportive and has excellent shock absorption. Good support provides alignment for not only the feet and ankles but the whole lower extremity. Shock absorption in the form of good cushioning will also protect bones and joints from undo stress and strain."

  • What type of shoes should be worn in the healthcare setting?

    While sneakers are standard for healthcare workers, Dr. Geller also notes that clogs are suitable footwear for nurses. "The slightly rigid sole mitigates unnecessary stress to the joints of the feet and ankles," says Dr. Geller. The clog also has good arches to provide support in a much-needed part of the foot. It’s also easy to slip on and off."

  • How often should nurses replace their shoes?

    Dr. Geller says nurses should replace their shoes every 4 to 6 months (or sooner, depending on the wear and tear). He explains that because most cushion systems use different forms of EVA materials for shoes, EVA is highly aerated, which, despite providing cushion and control, loses its ability to support over time. 

  • How should nursing shoes fit?

    "Starting with the heel counter, a shoe should surround the heel and provide stability and prevent slippage," explains Dr. Geller. He notes the importance of the arch, which "should feel intimate and supportive and accommodating of the contours of bunions, hammertoes, wide feet or narrow feet." Ensure your shoes can permit some swelling, he also mentions, because "long hours on the feet encourage gravity to pull the fluid down, causing expansion of the feet and ankles."

Why Trust Shape

Madison Barber is a writer at Shape. For this roundup, she reached out to several nurses in her circles to garner recommendations and testimonials for shoes for nurses, including only the pairs that they raved about. The Shape team used these opinions from real-life nurses and the following experts:

  • Dr. Bruce Pinker, podiatrist at New York’s Progressive Foot Care
  • Dr. Daniel Geller, DPM, Chief Medical Officer at Kane Footwear and Sports Podiatrist, Foot and Ankle Surgeon