We’re sure you get major style points on weekends in your chic high heels or Chelsea boots, but your office style can’t always be about looks. If you’re working a long medical shift, you have to prioritize comfort and the well-being of your back, neck, and ankles when choosing the right shoe.
If you want to look stylish but keep comfy while on the job, we have good news: you can! All it takes is a soft face mask, your most luxurious scrubs, and a pair of one of these healthcare workers’ shoes. As a medical professional, you have one of the most challenging jobs; you deserve to feel as relaxed and at ease as possible.
Read on for our list of the best shoes for standing all day to get you to your shift’s finish line in the best shape possible.
Eleven of the best shoes for medical professionals
You’re already busy concentrating on doing what you do best: taking care of your patients. Which is why we’ve done the homework for you. We’ve read the ratings. We’ve sized up the reviews. Here’s our list of top picks for comfortable work shoes for medical professionals:
Hoka One One Bondi 7 Sneakers
If cushioning is the name of your game, then Hoka’s Bondis is perfect for you. With a cushy midsole, a non-slip exterior, and a water-resistant leather upper, your feet may feel like they’re walking on air all day long. You can even wear these sneakers on runs and walks (it still counts if it’s from the hospital door to your car).
Bala Twelves
If you think comfortable shoes can’t be fashionable, Bala is here to prove you wrong. These kicks look as good as they feel, with a hip, athletic design, a grippy outsole, and ankle support, so you won’t be trading off your safety for fashion.
Brooks Ghost 13 Sneakers
It’s all in the name. These shoes are so comfortable, it’s like they’re not even there. Brooks’ high-end running shoes are stacked with cushioning, making for a supportive fit that maximizes arch support and minimizes heel pain. Many hospital workers walk three-four miles a day. Depending on how many long shifts you’ve scheduled, you may be walking a full marathon (or more) throughout your workweek.
Skechers Comfort Flex Pro Health Care Professional Shoes
These shoes were made especially for healthcare workers, so they hit all the right marks: a relaxed fit, an upper that breathes, and a cushioned inner lining. They’re so comfy and cute that we wouldn’t be surprised if you wind up wearing them to run errands.
Crocs Unisex Bistro Clog
Love ’em or hate ’em, there’s no other shoe quite like a Croc. Known for their iconic shape, style, and material, these plastic clogs are ultra-breathable and easy to clean. Crocs tend to last a long time as well and depending on how liberal your workplace dress code is, you can jazz up your look by opting for a pair in a funky color. They’re also an excellent shoe for flat feet.
Dansko Professional Clogs
These leather clogs are perfect for jazzing up your look with their full range of colorful options. On the practical side, they’re roomy, comfortable, lightweight, and come highly recommended, thanks to their support. A favorite among many healthcare professionals, they often pop up on lists of the best shoes for arch support.
Skechers D’Lites Memory Foam Sneakers
These comfortable but durable kicks are perfect shoes for nurses and doctors on their feet for long periods, and they earn points for their cushy insoles and non-slip outsoles. You’ll feel like you’ll be walking on clouds no matter where you go.
Yhoon Sock Slip-On Sneakers
Who doesn’t love a slip-on? These “sock” sneakers can save you a precious minute or two as you’re running out the door in the morning (or in the evening, if you work the night shift). Stay safe with these slip-resistant shoes, and keep comfortable and cool with their breathable sock-style upper and air-cushioned sole.
Oofos Unisex Clogs
These classic clogs have got your back pain covered. The proprietary design of the footbed is great for ankle, feet, knee, and back support, and the brand’s special foam technology promotes shock absorption. Consider wearing these shoes the equivalent of driving around in an off-road vehicle. Your trail? The tricky terrain of the hospital.
On Cloud 5
This lightweight, endlessly cool sneakers are a solid choice when you want to put fashion first. These shoes go with everything, from scrubs to jeans, which means you may also find yourself slipping them on for weekend walks. A favorite of endurance trainers and long-distance runners, they’re a perfect option to combine with these comfortable scrubs to wear on lengthy shifts as well. They feature a breathable, antimicrobial mesh upper—a major perk for anyone working in a medical environment.
Clove Shoes
This brand makes several high-quality, great-looking shoes designed especially for healthcare professionals. Their sneakers are comfy and breathable, and they feature stain-resistant uppers and machine-washable insoles. These shoes are so chic; you’ll almost be too cool for med school (though, honestly, what could be cooler than a med schooler?).
At Jaanuu, we craft scrubs that will keep you comfortable during long days at the office and accessories to help you live your best life both on and off the clock. Our mission is to support you in whatever way we can, always helping you look and feel great from the top of your head to the bottom of your feet.
Now, go get those kicks!