Best Shoes for Nurses

Nurses walk 4–5 miles a shift, so shoes are the one piece of gear that pays you back daily. These are the models nurses re-buy after the first pair wears out, sorted by what matters on the floor: cushion, support, and slip resistance. Replace them every 6–9 months; broken-down cushioning is how the foot and back pain starts.

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HOKA Bondi 10
Top pick
Maximum cushioning, the nurse favorite for hard hospital floors and long shifts.
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HOKA Clifton 10
Lighter than the Bondi with plenty of cushion; good for nurses who want less shoe underfoot.
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HOKA Bondi SR
Slip-resistant
Slip-resistant leather version, wipeable and made for spills and wet floors.
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Brooks Ghost 18
APMA-accepted and the most-worn brand in nurse surveys; balanced cushion and support.
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ASICS Gel-Nimbus 27
Plush, high-cushion running shoe podiatrists recommend for long shifts on hard floors.
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Dansko XP 2.0 Clog
Best clog
The classic nurse clog, updated: slip-resistant and easy on/off.
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Clove Classic
Built specifically for healthcare: fully wipeable, fluid-resistant, easy to clean.
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Crocs Bistro Pro / On The Clock
Budget
Slip-resistant and inexpensive, the budget pick that holds up.
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Superfeet Insoles / orthotic inserts
Add-on
If new shoes aren't in the budget, fresh insoles are the cheapest way to bring back cushion and arch support.
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Buying tip: Fit matters more than brand: order your usual size, walk a shift, and return if they don't feel right. Slip-resistant outsoles are worth it for any floor that sees spills.

Prices and availability change, so check the current listing on Amazon.

Frequently asked questions

What are the best shoes for nurses on 12-hour shifts?: Max-cushion running shoes like the HOKA Bondi and Brooks Ghost are the most-worn picks for hard hospital floors, while Dansko and Clove clogs suit nurses who prefer slip-on support. Look for a slip-resistant outsole and replace shoes every 6 to 9 months as the cushioning breaks down.
Are slip-resistant shoes required for nurses?: Many hospitals require slip-resistant (SR) outsoles, especially in the OR and any wet area. Even where it is not required, an SR sole is worth it on any floor that sees spills. Check your facility's dress code.

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Best Shoes for Nurses

As an Amazon Associate, RenewRN earns from qualifying purchases, at no extra cost to you. Picks are editorial and aren't influenced by commissions.

Frequently asked questions

What are the best shoes for nurses on 12-hour shifts?

Max-cushion running shoes like the HOKA Bondi and Brooks Ghost are the most-worn picks for hard hospital floors, while Dansko and Clove clogs suit nurses who prefer slip-on support. Look for a slip-resistant outsole and replace shoes every 6 to 9 months as the cushioning breaks down.

Are slip-resistant shoes required for nurses?

Many hospitals require slip-resistant (SR) outsoles, especially in the OR and any wet area. Even where it is not required, an SR sole is worth it on any floor that sees spills. Check your facility's dress code.