Being a nurse is one of the most rewarding career paths, getting to interact with patients and help them find ways to feel better, but also getting to work in a fast-paced environment that offers multiple challenges daily. Nursing can be one of the most taxing jobs on your body; mainly your feet. Nurses often work 10 to 12-hour shifts. This means a nurse is at constant risk for foot pain and even serious foot conditions, such as plantar fasciitis, bunions, hammer toe, and more. These problems can be intensified without proper footwear. Shoes that are not made for standing all day can be too tight on your feet and lack the right support, causing a myriad of problems. This is why you should always wear nursing shoes that are made with comfort in mind, to avoid aching feet and serious conditions.
Why Comfort Shoes Matter For the Nursing Industry
Wearing your favorite pair of shoes to work might not be practical, especially if your shoes do not fit correctly or lack in terms of support. These shoes may look stylish in trendy colors, but you will be putting yourself at serious risk of foot conditions by wearing unsupportive shoes at a job that requires you to stand all day. Nursing entails long periods of standing as part of the day-to-day responsibilities of the job. Whether it’s running on the hospital floor next to a gurney or tending to multiple patients in the emergency room, nurses can put a lot of wear and tear on their feet. So don't just grab any decent-looking pair of white shoes off the rack. You need the best shoes for nurses specifically. Here are a few things to think about and consider while shoe shopping.
Can You Wear Just Any Shoe As a Nurse?
When a nurse is shopping for shoes, they should look for a brand that specializes in comfort and optimal support for those who spend most of the day on their feet. Fortunately, at Lucky Feet Shoes, we carry the top comfort footwear brands for those working in the medical field.
Picking The Right Shoe For Different Foot Types & Conditions
Nurses are among the healthcare professionals who most suffer from musculoskeletal disorders in their field. Their afflictions are born out of the fact they are walking and standing almost for hours on end.
When shopping for a pair of nurse shoes, you should also consider your foot types (flat feet, wide feet, high arches) or various health conditions you might suffer from (bunions, plantar fasciitis, ankle pain, knee pain, back pain, heel spurs, and even diabetes).
When a nurse is shopping for a shoe, he or she should look for a brand that specializes in comfort and optimal support for those who spend most of the day on their feet. Fortunately, at Lucky Feet Shoes we carry the top comfort footwear brands for those working in the medical field including the best shoes for nurses.
Here are the Top 10 Comfort Shoes for Nurses available and why they are effective:
How Often Should Nurses Replace Their Shoes?
The topic of foot discomfort was the subject of a study published in MedSurg Nursing. Foot pain was found to be a barrier to leading a physically active and healthy lifestyle. Nurses should replace their tennis shoes every 350-500 km. Or, to put it another way, twice a year or every seven months. Since a nurse's work is too crucial to be interrupted by foot pain, it is imperative that they wear sturdy shoes at all times.
1. HOKA Elevon 2
- Anatomical support wings allow for an individualized fit
- The asymmetrical tongue provides a secure feel
- Strategic forefoot grooving offers increased flexibility during liftoff
- Removable footbed
2. New Balance 990v5
- Blown rubber outsole
- ENCAP® midsole technology provides support and maximum durability
- Dual-density collar foam for extra cushioning
- Removable footbed
3. Dansko Paisley
- The APMA Seal of Acceptance
- Slip-resistant Vibram® rubber outsole
- Water & stain resistant
- Removable footbed
4. Softwalk Meredith
- Antimicrobial brushed microfiber upper lining keeps away odor and bacteria
- Flexible and lightweight EVA sole features slip-resistant rubber inserts
- Ultra-comfortable footbed with antimicrobial lining provides maximum arch support
- EVA outsole is lightweight to provide the most comfortable step
5. HOKA Bondi 7
- TPU overlays offer additional midfoot structure and support
- Rubber outsole minimizes weight and maximizes durability
- Open-engineered mesh construction delivers breathable comfort
- The internal heel counter provides a supportive, locked-in fit midsole
6. New Balance 1540
- ENCAP® midsole technology provides support and maximum durability
- ROLLBAR® with Medial & Lateral TPU Posts for ultimate motion control
- Synthetic/mesh upper
- Removable footbed
7. Dansko XP 2.0 Pull Up
- Leather uppers
- Accommodates most standard and custom orthotics
- Slip-resistant rubber outsole suitable for dry, wet, and oily/wet surfaces
- Lightweight EVA midsole reduces fatigue for everyday wear and provides stability and high shock absorption
- Roomy toe box to allow toes to move comfortably - plenty of wiggle room
- American Podiatric Medical Association (APMA) Seal of Acceptance
8. Brooks Adrenaline GTS 21
- BioMoGo DNA midsole cushioning dynamically adapts to your stride.
- An integrated Segmented Crash Pad accommodates any foot landing, delivering smooth heel-to-toe transitions.
- The asymmetrical 3D Fit Print saddle pulls from the heel and wraps around your midfoot for a secure fit.
- Improved structure in the mesh upper shaves weight
9. New Balance Fresh Foam More v2
- Engineered mesh for a seamless fit
- Fresh Foam innovative midsole created from a single piece of foam that provides a plush, more natural ride
- Ground contact EVA cushioning increases comfort without adding extra weight
- Ultra heel design hugs the back of the foot for a snug, supportive fit
10. HOKA Gaviota 3
- The APMA Seal of Acceptance
- Arch-lock wings offer midfoot stability and support
- Moderate heel bevel provides smooth heel transition
- Flat-waisted geometry provides inherent stability
What To Look For When Buying Shoes For Nurses
Everyone could benefit from owning a dependable pair of shoes that are also comfy. However, medical professionals who are constantly on the move for 12 hours or more have the greatest need for them. Nursing working conditions necessitate closed-toe shoes to protect workers' feet from the excessive stress that comes from standing or walking for lengthy periods of time.
Consider the following while you shop for a new pair of shoes to ensure your comfort and productivity on the job:
Cushioning
Nurses' feet are especially vulnerable due to their occupation; thus, they need to wear supportive shoes and sneakers "having a thick adequate sole is essential for support and comfort. Furthermore, "Good arch support is crucial for maintaining ankle and foot stability.
Breathability
Closed-toe shoes limit nurses' ability to move their toes and might make long and busy shifts uncomfortable. To avoid the buildup of sweat (and odor) and the spread of fungi and germs, shoes made from breathable materials that provide proper ventilation to your feet are essential. A sneaker with a mesh upper is ideal for use in a healthcare facility.
Shoe Shape and Fit
Finding a proper pair of kicks that fits your foot appropriately, and complements its shape, is crucial. The most common problem is that people are wearing shoes that are one or two sizes too small for them, which can cause painful deformities. You need to avoid shoes with a tight toe box and opt for a pair with a wide toe box if you want to keep your toes from getting blistered.
Non-Slip Sole
If you're a nurse who walks or runs around all day in a setting where you might get wet much like healthcare environments, you'll appreciate a pair of nursing shoes that are comfortable with supportive insoles and a non-slip sole to add traction when you walk.
Durability
Select comfortable nursing shoes that will last the longest, as quality equals longevity. It's still a good idea to check the soles of your shoes on a regular basis, as well as the sides and the heel, to make sure you're getting the necessary arch and heel support as well as stability. In addition, you should get a new pair of shoes when you see wear patterns inside.
Stain Resistant
Leather or synthetic leather, which can be readily wiped clean, is recommended because you never know what you're going to step into, whether it be a spilled bedside water glass, vomit, or other bodily fluids. Stain-resistant materials are essential.
Protection
Comfort and protection are basic ingredients for a nurse shoe. Make sure that the shape, materials, and size are ideal for your feet’s protection. Soothing the muscles and tendons in your feet with lotion and a warm soak will help you unwind.
Are Comfortable Shoes Enough?
Even so, there is more to better foot health and proper foot care than just wearing soft footwear. Comfortable shoes are enough when you’re living a normal life, but if you happen to be on the move constantly, such as nurses do, then you should start caring about the following elements:
Insoles
When you press down on the arch, the insoles should be supportive enough to prevent the arch from collapsing. The insert won't provide you with the support you require if there is too much give. The greatest insoles are those that conform to the shape of your feet. Too-high insoles may cause discomfort.
Compression Socks
Compression stockings are made to put pressure on your lower legs. This helps your blood flow stay steady and reduces pain and swelling. Your doctor may give them to you if you have a condition that makes your legs' blood flow slowly, like varicose veins (swollen and enlarged veins).
Buying comfy shoes for working long hours in a hospital for healthcare workers is not the same as heading out and selecting a cute pair of sandals. It often takes a great deal of time, preparation, and energy to choose a great nursing shoe. Make sure that you cover all of the bases when you are on your quest for the perfect shoes.
Where to Shop Comfortable Shoes for Nurses?
Whether you prefer to shop online or in-store, at Lucky Feet Shoes we have a large selection of comfortable shoes for both men and women. But, if you prefer personalized shoe fittings, great customer service, we have nine comfort shoe stores located in Southern California. Which are located in Anaheim Hills, Rancho Cucamonga, Redlands, Riverside, San Dimas, Long Beach, Temecula, La Quinta, and Palm Desert. We invite you to stop by for a free foot analysis and try on our shoes for heel pain. We have a large selection of comfort shoes, wide shoes, arch support, and custom orthotics! We carry a wide selection of comfortable footwear ranging from sandals, heels, walking shoes, running shoes, casual sneakers, clogs, wedges, flats, booties, and boots. Shop in-store for our personalized customer service and free foot analysis! Schedule a free foot analysis today!
