Best Shoes for Nurses — Top Choices for Healthcare Workers

If you’re a nurse who spends long hours on your feet, choosing the right shoe isn’t just about comfort—it’s essential for your health and performance. Hospital floors are unforgiving, and a poor shoe choice can lead to foot pain, back issues, and fatigue by the end of your shift. That’s why we’ve carefully reviewed the best shoes for nurses in 2025.

Our Pick

Our top pick for top nursing shoe is the Brooks Ghost 16, which stands out for its exceptional cushioning, breathable design, and all-day support. The Ghost 16 features Brooks’ latest DNA LOFT v3 midsole, which offers plush yet responsive comfort ideal for extended shifts. Its smooth heel-to-toe transition helps reduce fatigue, making it a favorite among professionals who spend 12+ hours on the go. Whether you’re walking rounds, assisting in procedures, or responding to emergencies, the Brooks Ghost 16 is a durable, lightweight, and dependable companion for your feet.

Nursing shoes:

• Need waterproof nursing shoes? Click here for our picks
• Prefer Nike shoes? See our article: Best Nike Shoes for Nurses
• Love Hoka shoes? See best Hoka shoes for nurses
• Seeking best shoes for male nurses? Click here
• Best Skechers for nurses

Summary of Best Shoes for Nurses

Reviews of Top Shoes for Nurses

Here are our picks for top nursing shoes with reviews, specs and pros and cons for each.

Brooks Ghost 16

Best for: Latest cushioning technology

Brooks Ghost 16 is the top nursing shoe of 2025, earning high marks for its DNA LOFT v3 midsole, which offers soft, balanced cushioning ideal for long shifts. The breathable mesh upper keeps feet cool, while the shoe’s updated heel-to-toe transition reduces fatigue, making it perfect for nurses who stand, walk, and move constantly. Though it comes at a premium price, the support and comfort are unmatched. This APMA-approved shoe is widely praised for helping prevent foot and back pain. If you’re looking for the best all-around performer, the Ghost 16 is our top pick.

Specs

• DNA LOFT v3 cushioning
• Breathable mesh
• Smooth heel-to-toe transition
• Lightweight construction

Pros

• All-day comfort
• Excellent arch support
• APMA-approved

Cons

• Premium price
• Bulky for some users

Hoka Bondi 9

Best for: Max cushion support

Hoka Bondi 9 is built for nurses who need serious cushioning and support on the job. The shoe features an updated design with increased stack height and a refined MetaRocker sole for smooth, forward movement. Lightweight yet durable, the Bondi 9 reduces joint strain and leg fatigue even after 12+ hour shifts. The plush upper keeps the foot secure without sacrificing breathability. Though it has a bulkier profile that may not appeal to everyone, the comfort and protection it provides make it one of the best shoes for nursing professionals who deal with plantar fasciitis, knee pain, or back strain.

Specs

• Increased stack height
• MetaRocker sole
• Lightweight upper
• Plush midsole cushioning

Pros

• Extremely cushioned
• Excellent for long shifts
• Stable and smooth ride

Cons

• Bulky look
• Higher price point

Love Hoka shoes and want to see more models suited for nurses? Click here

Ryka Devotion Plus 3

Best for: Women-specific support

Ryka Devotion Plus 3 is designed specifically for women’s feet, with a narrower heel and wider toe box for a better anatomical fit. The RE-ZORB cushioning system provides shock absorption and flexibility, while the breathable mesh upper with supportive overlays helps lock the foot in place. Nurses with high arches or unique gait patterns will appreciate this shoe’s supportive design. It’s also one of the few shoes that consistently earns praise for style and fit. While it’s not ideal for men or those who prefer unisex designs, it excels at meeting the unique needs of women in healthcare.

Specs

• Narrow heel and roomy toe box
• RE-ZORB cushioning
• Breathable mesh upper
• Supportive overlays

Pros

• Tailored for women
• Stylish and functional
• High arch support

Cons

• Not unisex
• Style not for everyone

Allswifit Slip-On Sneakers

Best for: Affordable nursing shoe

Allswifit Slip-On Sneakers are a rising favorite among nurses for their no-fuss comfort, breathable knit design, and excellent price point. The slip-on style is ideal for hectic mornings, while the EVA midsole cushions each step. Lightweight and flexible, these shoes reduce fatigue during extended shifts without sacrificing grip or support. They’re especially suited for budget-conscious nurses or those who prefer a less structured fit. However, durability may be an issue with heavy use, and they’re not ideal for those who need custom arch support.

Specs

• Breathable knit upper
• EVA midsole
• Slip-on design
• Lightweight outsole

Pros

• Budget-friendly
• Quick and easy to wear
• Breathable and light

Cons

• Not as durable
• Limited arch support

Lamincoa Women’s Sock Walking Shoe

Best for: Popular favorite

Nurses working long shifts will appreciate the breathable design and slip-on convenience of the Lamincoa Women’s Sock Walking Shoe. Designed with lightweight mesh and memory foam, this shoe combines flexibility with underfoot support to reduce fatigue during long hospital rounds. The sock-like vamp hugs the foot for a snug, no-rub fit, making it ideal for fast-paced work environments where time and comfort matter. A non-slip outsole provides traction on slick hospital floors, while the roomy toe box ensures comfort during foot swelling that often comes with 12+ hour shifts. Though stylish and supportive, these shoes tend to run large, so ordering a half-size down is often recommended. With limited color options, it might not appeal to those wanting fashion variety—but for practical comfort, Lamincoa nails it. This is a reliable shoe that balances affordability with performance for nurses who need lasting support shift after shift.

Specs

• Breathable mesh
• Slip-on design
• Memory foam insole
• Slip-resistant outsole

Pros

• Lightweight and easy to wear
• Sock-like fit hugs the foot
• High skid resistance

Cons

• Runs large
• Limited color options

Easy Spirit Women’s Romy Sneaker

Best for: Best Sneaker Option

The Easy Spirit Women’s Romy Sneaker is a reliable and affordable choice for nurses who want a classic sneaker feel with the support needed for long shifts. Its breathable leather upper keeps your feet cool, while the padded collar and cushioned insole add comfort right where you need it. The lace-up design allows for a secure, personalized fit, especially useful for long walks on hard hospital floors. Nurses will appreciate the roomy toe box and the lightweight rubber sole, which helps reduce foot fatigue. However, some wearers have noted quality inconsistencies between units and less-than-ideal arch support for higher arches. Still, for its price and features, the Romy Sneaker delivers where it matters most—staying comfortable hour after hour. If you’re looking for an all-day workhorse that blends comfort with familiarity, this sneaker is a solid addition to your nursing gear.

Specs

• Breathable leather upper
• Lace-up closure
• Padded collar
• Removable cushioned insole

Pros

• Cushioned and supportive
• Molds to your foot
• Excellent shock absorption

Cons

• Inconsistent quality control
• Minimal arch support

Dansko Women’s XP 2.0 Clogs

Best for: Long hours on feet

Dansko Women’s XP 2.0 Clogs are a go-to for nurses who prioritize stability and support throughout demanding shifts. The genuine leather upper offers durability and molds naturally to your foot over time, while the removable footbed and lightweight EVA midsole reduce pressure and absorb shock. These clogs are ideal for long hours on hard surfaces thanks to their excellent arch support and slip-resistant outsole. They also come in a range of widths, which is helpful for those with narrow or wide feet. However, the shoe’s interior dye may cause sock discoloration if worn for extended periods, and breathability could be better. Still, if you’re looking for all-day relief with a professional appearance, Dansko delivers.

Specs

• Leather upper
• Lightweight construction
• Slip-resistant outsole
• Removable footbed

Pros

• Superior arch support
• Lightweight
• Size variety

Cons

• May stain socks
• Less breathable

Skechers Ghenter Bronaugh Work Shoe

Best for: Water/stain resistance

The Skechers Ghenter Bronaugh Work Shoe is designed to withstand messes, spills, and demanding environments. This shoe features a water- and stain-resistant upper and a sporty look that’s well-suited to fast-paced healthcare settings. The slip-resistant rubber outsole offers solid traction, while the memory foam insole and shock-absorbing midsole help reduce fatigue. Air-cooled inserts keep your feet comfortable, even during long shifts. Some users report inconsistencies in insole construction and a slightly stiff fit at first, but once broken in, the comfort level is excellent. If you need something durable and practical, especially for environments prone to spills, this model is worth a look.

Specs

• Mesh upper
• Memory foam
• Slip-resistant
• EH safe construction

Pros

• Water-resistant
• Secure fit
• Durable outsole

Cons

• Insole quality may vary
• A bit stiff initially

Read more about waterproof nurses shoes.

Hawkwell Lightweight Nursing Shoe

Best for: Lightweight slip-on

The Hawkwell Lightweight Nursing Shoe offers solid comfort at a budget price. Its synthetic leather upper is soft yet easy to wipe clean, and the slip-resistant outsole provides strong traction—ideal for busy nurses. The shoe includes a premium memory foam insole and a neutral arch design that accommodates various foot types. While great for wide feet, it tends to run large, so those with narrow feet may struggle to find the perfect fit. That said, for a lightweight, no-fuss option that performs well in slippery environments, the Hawkwell is a dependable pick.

Specs

• Synthetic leather upper
• Lightweight EVA sole
• Slip-resistant
• Memory foam insole

Pros

• Easy to clean
• Neutral arch support
• Lightweight

Cons

• Runs large
• Not ideal for narrow feet

Doussprt Slip-on Walking Shoes

Best for: Budget comfort

Doussprt Walking Shoes are an affordable and breathable option for nurses who prefer slip-on designs with air cushioning. The mesh upper and perforated arch area promote excellent airflow, keeping feet cooler during long shifts. The sole features an elastic air cushion design that helps minimize impact, while the EVA footbed delivers cushioning and microbial resistance. The round toe box allows natural toe movement, reducing pressure buildup. However, the sizing tends to run small, and some buyers have noted inconsistent manufacturing quality. Still, for a budget pick that doesn’t sacrifice key features, Doussprt is a strong contender.

Specs

• Breathable mesh
• Easy slip-on
• Air cushion sole
• Perforated arch

Pros

• Breathable
• Flexible and cushioned
• Great toe room

Cons

• Runs small
• Inconsistent quality control

New Balance 411 V1

Best for: Cushioned support

New Balance 411 V1 walking shoes are built for nurses who need cushioning without bulk. The DynaSoft midsole delivers soft yet responsive support that helps ease pressure on joints during long shifts. Combined with an EVA outsole and a padded collar and tongue, this shoe offers both comfort and traction. The breathable perforated leather upper helps with ventilation. Sizing can run small, so you might want to order up. A slightly long tongue may also affect fit for some, but overall, the 411 V1 is a reliable shoe for all-day support.

Specs

• Perforated leather upper
• DynaSoft midsole
• EVA outsole
• Padded collar and tongue

Pros

• Great cushioningbest
• Strong grip
• Breathable build

Cons

• Runs small
• Long tongue