The Best Shoes for Doctors: Comfort for Rounds

Last Updated on November 7, 2025

As someone who spends long hours walking hospital corridors, standing through surgeries, and responding to urgent calls, I know how critical the right pair of shoes can be. The best shoes for doctors combine comfort, durability, and support that lasts through back-to-back shifts. Whether you’re in scrubs for 12 hours straight or commuting between clinics, these top picks will keep your feet pain-free and your focus where it matters most — on your patients.

Summary of the Best Shoes for Doctors

In-Depth Reviews for the Best Shoes for Doctors

Working long shifts means comfort and support are non-negotiable. Below, you’ll find detailed reviews of each top shoe, highlighting their performance, design, and how they hold up under demanding hospital conditions.

HOKA Bondi 9

Best for: Long hospital shifts, all-day support, and walking comfort

When it comes to all-day comfort, the HOKA Bondi 9 stands out as one of the most cushioned running shoes ever adapted for hospital and clinical use. Designed with doctors, nurses, and other healthcare professionals in mind, this model delivers exceptional shock absorption and long-lasting stability that helps prevent foot and leg fatigue during marathon shifts.

The Bondi 9 features a full-length compression-molded EVA midsole that softens each step while providing dependable support for the arches and heels. HOKA’s signature early-stage Meta-Rocker geometry promotes a smooth, efficient stride that reduces pressure on joints and encourages a natural gait—even after hours of walking or standing. The engineered mesh upper increases ventilation to keep feet cool, while a memory-foam collar gently hugs the ankle to prevent chafing or irritation. The outsole offers excellent traction on tile, vinyl, and laminate flooring, which is ideal for fast-paced hospital settings.

Although technically a running shoe, the Bondi 9 has earned its reputation among medical professionals for combining performance-level cushioning with workplace practicality. Its plush feel, solid construction, and durable outsole make it a reliable choice for anyone who spends most of their day on their feet. Both men’s and women’s versions ensure an ideal fit for every healthcare worker seeking enduring comfort and stability.

Specs

• Weight: Approx. 10.8 oz (Men) / 8.9 oz (Women)
• Midsole: Compression-molded EVA with Meta-Rocker design
• Upper: Engineered mesh with padded memory-foam collar
• Health benefits: Reduces foot, knee, and back fatigue; enhances stability for prolonged standing

Pros

• Superior cushioning for long shifts
• Excellent shock absorption and energy return
• Breathable upper prevents overheating
• Reliable traction on slick hospital floors

Cons

• Slightly bulkier than standard sneakers
• Higher price point

Buy: Men’s version | Women’s version

Crocs Bistro Pro LiteRide Clog

Best for: Quick in-and-out tasks, nursing or doctor rounds

The Crocs Bistro Pro LiteRide Clog is a healthcare favorite because it perfectly balances comfort, practicality, and easy maintenance. Designed specifically for professionals who spend their days on their feet, this upgraded model takes the familiar Crocs comfort to a higher level.

It features LiteRide™ foam insoles, a technology that offers 40% softer cushioning and 25% lighter weight than traditional Crocs materials, providing a supportive yet plush feel during extended shifts. The closed-toe and heel design meets workplace safety standards while protecting your feet from spills and dropped instruments. Its slip-resistant outsole offers excellent traction on slick hospital floors, making it ideal for environments where stability and quick movements are essential. Ventilation ports along the sides keep air flowing without compromising protection from fluids. One of its biggest advantages is how easy it is to clean—simply rinse or wipe down between shifts, and it’s ready to go again.

Though Crocs are known for their casual look, the Bistro Pro LiteRide adds a more professional finish while retaining the comfort the brand is known for. Whether you’re rounding on patients, standing in the lab, or working in an operating suite, this clog delivers dependable performance and comfort for both men and women in the medical field.

Specs

• Weight: Approx. 8.5 oz (unisex)
• Insole: LiteRide™ foam cushioning
• Upper: Croslite™ resin with closed-toe protection
• Health benefits: Reduces pressure on heels and arches; promotes proper posture for prolonged standing

Pros

• Exceptional comfort and lightweight feel
• Easy to clean and sanitize
• Excellent slip resistance
• Affordable and durable

Cons

• Minimal breathability compared to mesh sneakers
• Style may feel too casual for formal hospital dress codes

Buy: Men’s version | Women’s version

Anywear Zone Nursing Clog

Best for: Healthcare professionals on their feet all day

The Anywear Zone Nursing Clog is a dependable and affordable option for doctors and nurses who want lightweight comfort and practical durability. Built from a flexible EVA foam material, it provides a supportive yet forgiving fit that molds gently to the foot. The Zone’s anatomical footbed and padded insole are designed to relieve pressure points, helping to prevent heel and arch pain during long shifts.

The clog is both slip- and oil-resistant, offering traction on smooth tile floors and wet surfaces common in hospital and lab settings. Its ventilation holes enhance airflow, while an antimicrobial lining reduces odor and bacteria build-up—an essential feature for healthcare environments. The heel strap adds security and stability when moving quickly through wards, and the entire shoe can be sanitized easily with a quick wipe-down.

Despite being lightweight, the Zone offers surprisingly solid support for extended wear, making it one of the best values in its category. Many healthcare professionals choose it as a reliable backup shoe for on-call shifts or lab work because of its comfort-to-cost ratio. Available in both men’s and women’s sizes, the Anywear Zone Nursing Clog provides a no-frills, functional design that focuses purely on keeping your feet comfortable and protected during long days of patient care.

Specs

• Weight: Approx. 7 oz (unisex)
• Material: EVA foam upper and sole
• Insole: Cushioned footbed with antimicrobial lining
• Health benefits: Reduces foot fatigue, odor-resistant, easy to sanitize

Pros

• Lightweight and comfortable
• Excellent traction on hospital floors
• Antimicrobial and odor-resistant
• Budget-friendly

Cons

• Less structured arch support than premium models
• Limited style options

Buy: Men’s version | Women’s version

New Balance Fresh Foam Roav V1 Classic Sneaker

Best for: Doctors preferring athletic comfort and support

The New Balance Fresh Foam Roav V1 Classic delivers a true running-shoe experience tailored for professionals who spend long days moving between patient rooms, offices, and hospital wings. It features a plush Fresh Foam midsole, engineered to deliver a lightweight, responsive feel that cushions each step without sacrificing stability. The ultra-heel design hugs the back of the foot for a secure fit, while the bootie-style upper ensures smooth flexibility and easy on-off transitions. The outsole’s durable rubber traction pods are strategically placed for superior grip, making it a good match for hospital floors that can vary between tile, vinyl, and laminate.

Despite its sporty look, the Roav V1 transitions effortlessly from clinical environments to casual wear—ideal for physicians who want performance comfort in and outside of work. Breathable mesh keeps air circulating, preventing heat build-up during long shifts, and its sleek profile pairs well with scrubs. This sneaker’s key advantage lies in its weight-to-support ratio; it feels feather-light yet provides robust cushioning across the entire sole. Whether you’re covering multiple floors or standing through lengthy procedures, the Roav V1 ensures consistent shock absorption, stability, and fatigue reduction. It’s one of the best athletic-inspired shoes for doctors seeking versatility, comfort, and dependable everyday performance.

Specs

• Weight: Approx. 9.2 oz (Men)
• Midsole: Fresh Foam cushioning
• Upper: Breathable mesh with Ultra-Heel design
• Health benefits: Promotes proper alignment, reduces heel pressure

Pros

• Lightweight, athletic comfort
• Breathable and flexible
• Durable outsole traction
• Stylish and versatile

Cons

• Slightly narrow toe box
• Minimal liquid protection

Skechers Work Squad SR

Best for: Hospital staff needing reliable grip and comfort

The Skechers Work Squad SR is engineered for medical professionals who need durable, all-day comfort paired with strong slip resistance. This shoe blends athletic comfort with the reliability of a certified work shoe, making it ideal for doctors, technicians, and hospital staff. It features a Memory Foam cushioned insole that molds to your foot, creating personalized support during long shifts. The midsole adds shock absorption to reduce stress on the knees and lower back, while the SR-rated rubber outsole ensures grip even on wet or polished floors. The synthetic mesh upper keeps the shoe breathable, and the padded collar and tongue provide additional comfort around pressure points.

With a sporty design, it looks at home with scrubs or casual attire. Despite its sturdy build, the Work Squad SR remains lightweight, so it won’t weigh you down during high-mobility tasks. Many professionals appreciate its ability to deliver traction and comfort without feeling like a heavy-duty clog. While it doesn’t have the plushness of premium running shoes, it’s one of the most practical and budget-conscious shoes available for daily hospital wear. Its balance of durability, cushioning, and style makes it a solid choice for healthcare professionals who move constantly throughout their shifts.

Specs

• Weight: Approx. 10 oz (Men)
• Insole: Memory Foam cushioned footbed
• Outsole: Slip-resistant SR-rated rubber
• Health benefits: Reduces foot strain, enhances traction on slick surfaces

Pros

• Excellent slip resistance
• Comfortable fit for long wear
• Lightweight and breathable
• Durable construction

Cons

• Less plush cushioning than athletic shoes
• Limited arch support for flat feet

Ryka Devotion X Walking Shoe

Best for: Female doctors seeking walking-style support

The Ryka Devotion X Walking Shoe is designed specifically for women, with attention to the unique shape and mechanics of the female foot. It’s one of the most supportive walking shoes for female doctors, offering lightweight cushioning and anatomical alignment that eases pressure on joints during long hours.

Its RE-ZORB® foam midsole provides responsive cushioning that absorbs shock and returns energy with each step. The shoe’s breathable mesh upper promotes airflow, keeping your feet cool even during extended shifts. A padded tongue and collar enhance comfort, while the lace-up design ensures a snug, secure fit. The Devotion X’s rubber outsole features a multi-directional tread pattern for reliable traction on slick hospital floors.

One of its strongest points is how it supports the natural movement of the foot while maintaining all-day stability—perfect for those who alternate between standing and fast walking. This model also accommodates orthotics, which is a plus for anyone managing plantar fasciitis or over-pronation. Its blend of feminine style and functional engineering has made it a go-to for healthcare workers seeking performance without sacrificing comfort. Whether you’re performing rounds, assisting in long procedures, or handling administrative duties, the Ryka Devotion X delivers durability and comfort that last from morning check-ins to late-night discharges.

Specs

• Weight: Approx. 8 oz (Women)
• Midsole: RE-ZORB® foam cushioning
• Outsole: Multi-directional rubber tread
• Health benefits: Reduces joint strain; supports neutral and mild over-pronation

Pros

• Designed specifically for women’s foot shape
• Lightweight and breathable
• Supportive cushioning for long shifts
• Stylish, athletic look

Cons

• Not waterproof
• May run slightly narrow

Skechers Skech-Air Healthcare Professional Shoe

Best for: Women in hospital or clinical settings

The Skechers Skech-Air Healthcare Professional Shoe brings together a polished, professional appearance and advanced comfort technology, making it an excellent option for female doctors. It’s specifically designed for healthcare workers who need reliable cushioning and arch support without sacrificing style.

The shoe features an air-cooled memory foam insole that contours to the shape of the foot, reducing fatigue across long hours on hard surfaces. The Skech-Air® midsole includes a visible air-cushion pod in the heel that absorbs impact, promoting smoother transitions while walking or standing for extended periods. Its slip-resistant rubber outsole enhances traction, while the lightweight, flexible design ensures natural movement. The upper is crafted from smooth synthetic leather, which wipes clean easily, maintaining a professional appearance through demanding workdays. Inside, a soft fabric lining minimizes friction, and the padded collar prevents ankle irritation.

Many healthcare professionals appreciate the balance between structure and softness that this shoe offers—it provides stability without feeling rigid. The Skech-Air design also contributes to improved posture by reducing pressure on the knees and lower back. Whether working in the ER, doing rounds, or managing patients in a private practice, this shoe supports consistent comfort and a polished look throughout long, unpredictable shifts.

Specs

• Weight: Approx. 9 oz (Women)
• Insole: Air-cooled memory foam
• Midsole: Skech-Air® cushioning with air pod
• Health benefits: Reduces impact stress, supports posture and alignment

Pros

• Cushioned comfort for long wear
• Slip-resistant outsole
• Easy to clean synthetic upper
• Sleek professional look

Cons

• Slightly firm midsole for some users
• Limited color options

Buyer’s Guide for the Best Shoes for Doctors

Choosing the best shoes for doctors involves more than just comfort—it’s about protection, support, hygiene, and endurance. Healthcare professionals spend most of their workday on their feet, often on hard, slick floors under fluorescent lights and high pressure. A well-chosen pair of shoes can reduce fatigue, prevent injury, and maintain focus through long shifts. Below are the most important factors to consider before buying.

Comfort and Cushioning

Doctors often walk miles during a single shift. Proper cushioning—especially in the midsole—absorbs shock and minimizes stress on the knees, hips, and lower back. EVA or Fresh Foam midsoles, like those in HOKA or New Balance models, provide plush comfort without excessive bulk. Shoes with memory foam or responsive cushioning adapt to your stride, offering support where you need it most. Comfort is essential not only for endurance but also for posture and joint health over time.

Support and Fit

Arch and heel support are critical for reducing strain. A stable base ensures even weight distribution, particularly when standing for long procedures. Look for designs with structured insoles, rocker soles, or stability frames that guide natural foot motion. Additionally, fit should be secure yet breathable—your foot should stay in place without feeling restricted. For orthotic wearers, removable insoles offer room for customization.

Slip Resistance and Safety

Hospital and clinic floors can be hazardous, often slick with cleaning products or fluids. Shoes with SR-rated rubber outsoles or textured treads are essential to prevent slips. Closed-toe and closed-heel designs add a layer of protection against spills, dropped tools, or sharp objects. Lightweight work clogs and hybrid sneakers often achieve this balance of safety and agility.

Breathability and Hygiene

Air circulation keeps your feet cool and helps prevent odor and bacterial buildup. Breathable mesh uppers—such as those found in HOKA, Ryka, and New Balance models—allow moisture to escape. Antimicrobial linings and washable materials, like EVA or Croslite, are also valuable for maintaining hygiene between shifts. Shoes that can be quickly cleaned or disinfected are especially convenient in hospital environments.

Durability and Maintenance

Given the demanding environment, durability matters. Synthetic leather, reinforced mesh, and rubber compounds extend the lifespan of medical footwear. Avoid shoes that lose shape or compress quickly. Maintenance should be simple—models like Crocs or Anywear clogs can be wiped down instantly, while athletic sneakers can be refreshed with removable insoles and machine-washable linings.

Style and Practicality

Doctors want professional-looking footwear that complements scrubs and lab attire without appearing overly casual. Many brands now combine ergonomic design with modern aesthetics. Models like the HOKA Bondi 9 and Skechers Work Squad SR offer this balance, allowing you to move from hospital halls to errands without changing shoes.

In summary, the ideal shoe for doctors merges comfort, safety, and practicality. It should support long hours of standing, resist slips, allow easy cleaning, and last through hundreds of shifts. Investing in a quality pair not only enhances comfort but also supports overall health and performance—making it a must-have for anyone in medicine.

Recommended Shoes

If you spend hours moving through hospital corridors, attending surgeries, and making patient rounds, the wrong footwear can quickly lead to pain, fatigue, or even chronic injury. In this guide, we’ve reviewed the best shoes for doctors across multiple styles and needs, and our buyer’s guide outlines the most important features to look for when choosing the right pair.

From this list, the HOKA Bondi 9 is our top recommendation for men. It delivers the perfect blend of cushioning, stability, and professional design, ideal for doctors who need consistent comfort and joint protection during long shifts. The plush EVA midsole absorbs impact while the Meta-Rocker geometry ensures smooth transitions, reducing strain on the knees and back. Its breathable mesh upper prevents overheating, and the durable rubber outsole provides exceptional traction on tile and laminate hospital floors. For healthcare professionals seeking a shoe that feels as good at hour twelve as it does at hour one, the Bondi 9 stands out as a reliable, long-term choice.

For women, the Ryka Devotion X Walking Shoe earns our highest recommendation. Designed specifically for women’s foot anatomy, it combines RE-ZORB® foam cushioning with breathable mesh and a flexible rubber outsole for superior stability. It supports natural foot movement and offers responsive comfort through long procedures or back-to-back shifts. The Devotion X delivers lightweight strength, excellent arch support, and enduring comfort—making it one of the best-performing shoes for female doctors who demand both function and fit.