Best Shoes for Male Nurses in 2025

Last Updated on July 3, 2025 by Andy Walker

Long shifts. Endless steps. Hospital floors that demand durability and traction. For male nurses, the right pair of shoes is more than a comfort—it’s a necessity. Whether you’re hustling from patient to patient or standing for hours on end, a reliable, supportive shoe helps reduce fatigue, prevent injury, and keep you focused on care. Below, we’ve compiled a list of the best current shoes for male nurses, updated for 2025 and tested for performance, support, and value.

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Summary Table: Top Picks for 2025

Here’s a quick overview of this year’s most recommended nursing shoes for men:

In-Depth Reviews of Each Shoe

For those who want the details before they decide, the following reviews break down what each shoe excels at, and who it’s best for when it comes to male nurses.

Skechers Go Walk Max

Best for: Overall Comfort

The Skechers Go Walk Max is consistently ranked as a top pick for nurses who need lightweight, breathable, and cushioned shoes for long hours on their feet. Built with a responsive 5GEN midsole and a Goga Max insole, this shoe delivers reliable impact absorption and comfort through every step. The mesh upper promotes airflow, helping feet stay cool even on double shifts, while the slip-resistant outsole offers stability on slick hospital floors.

What sets this shoe apart is its lightweight build. Despite all the cushioning and support features, it still feels light on the foot—reducing fatigue by the end of a long day. It’s also machine washable, making it a low-maintenance option for healthcare workers who deal with unexpected spills and long hours. The heel loop helps with easy on/off, and the stretchy fit conforms well to most foot shapes.

While it doesn’t offer a ton of structure, it’s ideal for neutral foot types that don’t need aggressive arch support. For those seeking a well-balanced nursing shoe with comfort and breathability in mind, the Go Walk Max remains a winning option.

Specs

• Slip-resistant outsole
• Breathable mesh upper
• Goga Max high-rebound insole
• 5GEN midsole cushioning
• Machine washable
• Heel pull loop for easy wear

Pros

• Lightweight and breathable
• Excellent cushioning
• Good grip on hospital floors
• Affordable and washable

Cons

• Not ideal for high arch or flat foot needs
• Less durable than leather-based models

Brooks Ghost 17

Best for: Cushioning & Support

If you’re looking for plush cushioning with smooth heel-to-toe transitions, the Brooks Ghost 17 continues to deliver comfort and reliability for male nurses (and female nurses too!) who are on their feet for long shifts. This latest iteration offers refinements over the Ghost 16, especially in midsole material and environmental sustainability.

The standout update in the Ghost 17 is the new DNA LOFT v3 midsole foam, now made with more sustainable, nitrogen-infused cushioning that delivers improved softness and energy return without adding weight. It remains consistent under pressure and resists flattening out during prolonged use, which is essential for nurses walking hospital floors for hours.

Brooks has also tweaked the upper with a better-fitting, air mesh design for added breathability and more secure lockdown. The shoe’s segmented crash pad and refined outsole geometry improve flexibility and smooth out transitions, especially helpful during quick directional changes and long shifts in high-traffic medical environments.

It’s still a neutral shoe, meaning it’s best suited for nurses with medium-to-high arches who don’t overpronate. If that’s you, the Ghost 17 provides a comfortable, cloud-like ride from the first step to the last.

Specs

• DNA LOFT v3 nitrogen-infused cushioning (more responsive and sustainable than Ghost 16)
• Engineered air mesh upper with improved fit
• Segmented crash pad outsole for smooth transitions
• Neutral support for everyday wear

Pros

• Plush DNA LOFT v3 cushioning stays soft and supportive even during long hospital shifts.
• Segmented crash pad delivers smooth heel-to-toe transitions on hard floors.
• Engineered mesh upper offers breathable, flexible comfort throughout the day.
• Lightweight design reduces leg fatigue without compromising cushioning.

Cons

• Lacks stability features, making it unsuitable for overpronators.
• Higher price point at around $140 USD may not fit all budgets.
• Outsole is not officially rated as slip-resistant for medical environments.

Hoka Bondi 9

Best for: Max Cushion

The Hoka Bondi 9 is a maximum cushioning workhorse and a favorite among nurses who need plush support over long, demanding shifts. As the most cushioned shoe in Hoka’s lineup, the Bondi 9 offers unmatched underfoot protection thanks to its thick EVA foam midsole and early-stage Meta-Rocker design, which promotes smooth strides and helps reduce fatigue in your feet and legs.

The updated engineered mesh upper improves breathability while maintaining a secure fit. A redesigned heel counter enhances rearfoot stability, making it a great option for long-term comfort. Although bulkier than other models, the Bondi 9 compensates with incredible softness that benefits nurses with high arches or those prone to joint soreness.

This shoe is particularly well-suited for men who want a combination of responsive cushion and durability. However, its generous sole thickness may not be ideal for those who prefer a low-to-ground feel.

Specs

• Full-length EVA midsole
• Early-stage Meta-Rocker for smooth transition
• Engineered mesh upper
• Heel counter for added support
• Thick rubber outsole for durability

Pros

• Superior cushioning for long hours
• Smooth, supported transitions
• Great for high arches and joint relief

Cons

• Bulky design
• Less ground feel

Nike Air Zoom Pegasus 41

Best for: Responsive Support

For male nurses who want a lightweight and versatile shoe with a touch of bounce, the Nike Air Zoom Pegasus 41 brings both responsiveness and everyday comfort. This newest version features Nike’s upgraded ReactX foam, providing more energy return than ever while staying lightweight enough for all-day wear.

Dual Zoom Air units—one in the forefoot and one in the heel—offer extra responsiveness when walking or climbing stairs. The engineered mesh upper is flexible and breathable, adjusting well to foot swelling during long shifts. The Pegasus 41 also boasts improved durability on the outsole, meaning you can expect better traction and wear resistance on slick floors.

Ideal for nurses with a neutral gait and those who appreciate athletic-style shoes for work, the Pegasus 41 balances performance, support, and visual appeal. That said, it may not provide the stability required by those with overpronation or very flat feet.

Specs

• ReactX foam midsole
• Zoom Air units in heel and forefoot
• Engineered mesh upper
• Padded collar and tongue
• Durable rubber outsole

Pros

• Lightweight and energizing feel
• Breathable and flexible fit
• Great for fast-paced environments

Cons

• Not ideal for overpronators
• Slightly narrow toe box

Brooks Adrenaline GTS 23

Best for: Flat Feet

For male nurses dealing with overpronation or flat feet, the Brooks Adrenaline GTS 23 offers a superb blend of cushioning and support. This stability shoe incorporates Brooks’ GuideRails® system, which reduces excess movement and promotes alignment throughout your gait cycle. It’s designed to help protect knees and joints while ensuring a stable step.

The DNA LOFT cushioning spans the full length of the midsole, delivering softness without sacrificing responsiveness. The breathable engineered mesh upper includes 3D Fit Print overlays for a secure yet adaptable fit, while the padded collar improves overall comfort during long shifts.

This shoe is ideal for those who want a balance of structure and softness without the stiffness often found in traditional stability shoes. However, some users may find it a bit firm out of the box and may need a short break-in period.

Specs

• GuideRails holistic support system
• Full-length DNA LOFT cushioning
• Engineered mesh upper with 3D Fit Print
• Padded collar and tongue
• Durable rubber outsole

Pros

• Excellent stability for flat feet
• Balanced cushioning and support
• Breathable and supportive upper

Cons

• Slightly firm at first
• May feel structured for neutral feet

New Balance 608v5

Best for: Sneaker Option

The New Balance 608v5 is a practical and cushioned sneaker for male nurses who want all-day comfort and a traditional design. With its ABZORB heel panel, dual-density collar foam, and non-marking rubber outsole, this shoe is well-suited for long hospital shifts that involve a lot of walking and standing.

This model features a mix of leather and breathable mesh, providing durability while still allowing some airflow. Its classic trainer silhouette also includes a traditional lace-up design, helping ensure a secure fit. The midsole offers a good level of shock absorption without being overly soft, so it feels stable underfoot.

The 608v5 is especially effective for those who prefer a firmer sneaker that still protects their joints from daily wear. It’s also available in wide sizing, making it ideal for broader feet. Just note that some wearers have reported that the fit can run large or wide, so consider ordering a half-size down.

Specs

• ABZORB heel cushioning
• Dual-density collar foam
• Leather and mesh upper
• Traditional lace-up closure
• Non-marking rubber outsole

Pros

• Good shock absorption for joints
• Durable leather construction
• Wide size options available

Cons

• May run wide or large
• Less breathable than full mesh options

Skechers Cessnock SR

Best for: Slip Resistance

Designed with kitchen and hospital workers in mind, the Skechers Cessnock SR provides excellent slip resistance and breathable comfort for male nurses on the move. Its woven knit mesh upper promotes ventilation, while the EVA midsole delivers decent cushioning for extended wear.

The shoe features bungee-style laces and a slip-on silhouette, making it especially convenient during fast-paced mornings. Inside, a soft fabric lining keeps your feet comfortable, and the memory foam footbed adds another layer of shock absorption. The flexible rubber outsole is certified slip-resistant, providing peace of mind on slick surfaces.

While the shoe doesn’t offer much arch support, it’s a solid choice for nurses with neutral arches or those who want an affordable, grippy, and easy-to-wear work shoe.

Specs

• Woven knit mesh upper
• Slip-on with bungee lacing
• Memory foam insole
• EVA midsole cushioning
• Slip-resistant rubber outsole

Pros

• Excellent grip on wet floors
• Breathable and lightweight
• Easy to put on and take off

Cons

• Limited arch support
• Fit may feel loose for narrow feet

Clarks Cotrell Free Loafer

Best for: Style & Comfort

If you’re looking for a shoe that blends professional appearance with all-day comfort, the Clarks Cotrell Free Loafer is a top contender. With its leather upper and Ortholite footbed, this slip-on offers both visual appeal and underfoot softness for long shifts.

This loafer-style shoe features a cushioned EVA outsole that absorbs shock while staying lightweight. The Ortholite insole wicks away moisture and offers reliable support without adding bulk. Padded collars enhance comfort and prevent rubbing, especially useful for nurses who walk from room to room.

While it lacks the breathability of mesh shoes, the Cotrell Free is ideal for healthcare professionals in administrative or hybrid patient-care roles who want a more polished look without compromising comfort.

Specs

• Leather upper
• Ortholite footbed
• EVA outsole
• Slip-on design with elastic gores
• Padded collar

Pros

• Dressier look with nursing-shift comfort
• Moisture-wicking insole
• Soft, supportive feel

Cons

• Not as breathable as mesh shoes
• Not ideal for heavy-duty floor work

Here is the final shoe review for the list:

Dansko XP 2.0 Clog

Best for: Durability & Support

The Dansko XP 2.0 Clog is a powerhouse shoe for male nurses who demand long-lasting support, slip resistance, and all-day comfort. Known for its superior arch support and high-quality construction, this clog is ideal for nurses working 12+ hour shifts on hard surfaces. The roomy toe box and padded instep collar help reduce pressure points, while the leather upper adds structure and durability.

The XP 2.0’s EVA midsole is lightweight yet offers impressive shock absorption, reducing fatigue in your legs and lower back. A key feature is the slip-resistant rubber outsole, which performs reliably on wet, oily, or polished hospital floors. The clog’s overall design keeps your heel secure but allows for natural foot movement, reducing the risk of strain.

Though the profile is higher and the look more traditional, many healthcare professionals swear by the XP 2.0’s ability to keep them going through long shifts without aches or blisters. It’s especially suited to those who need more structured arch support and cushioning than athletic sneakers typically provide.

Specs

• Nubuck leather upper
• Natural arch support
• Lightweight EVA midsole
• Roomy toe box
• Padded instep collar
• Slip-resistant rubber outsole

Pros

• Excellent arch and heel support
• Durable and professional design
• Stable, slip-resistant sole

Cons

• High profile may not suit everyone
• Runs large—consider sizing down