Working in the medical profession requires you to be on your feet for long hours. Whether it’s running alongside a gurney or standing for hours in the ER or operating room, every physician should have a pair of comfortable shoes to help them get through their working hours. Being on their feet all day puts a lot of stress on your legs and if you have unsupportive shoes, you might just develop achy arches, joint pain, and many uncomfortable problems that would simply worsen with age.
If you know healthcare physicians or doctors who are suffering from back aches, maybe all they need is a pair of shoes to relieve their lower back pain. Our article today contains a list of the best shoes for doctors that offer arch support and maximum comfort by absorbing the shock as they walk or run all day in medical facilities.
Buying Guide on How to Pick the Best Shoes for Doctors and Nurses?
There are many aspects such as comfort, support, appearance, durability, and breathability that you need to take into consideration when picking out the best shoes for doctors.
Types of regular footwear
Here are a few common types of shoes that you can select for doctors:
- Casual shoes or loafers
- Dress shoes or heels
- Lace-up shoes
- Sneakers
- Clogs or slip-on
- Velcro shoes
- Orthopedic shoes
Comfort Levels of Medical Shoes
Healthcare employees often move from emergency rooms to operating rooms constantly and require solid feet support to continue working tirelessly. Even if they do not walk around, they stand around a lot, and the act of standing places a lot of stress and pressure on their feet. To ensure they’re comfortable, you need to make sure that the best shoes for doctors come with the following features:
Arch Support
Feet pain on the foot arch is often caused by your feet creating a certain quirk when you walk or stand. This may result in some muscles in your arches working harder than the other groups of muscles as you walk. Arch pain usually occurs when you walk or stand for extended periods of time – something that physicians and doctors often do. Hence, it is critical that you get the most comfortable shoes with sufficient arch support in the soles for medical students or doctors.
Sole Strength
Sole strength here refers to the cushioning system of the footwear. You need to ensure that the shoes for doctors have optimal support elements inside such as a padded instep and shock absorbing midsole.
Heel Support
Those suffering from plantar fasciitis or Achilles tend to get pain in their heels as the ball in your foot stretches out, causing your heels to get swollen. A pair of shoes with a heel support system can help to prevent such pain.
Special Conditions
Another thing to take into account is their own feet. Some may have high arches or flat feet which may require special shoes to offer unique support.
Other Important Features
Here are a few critical aspects that you may look into when choosing the best pair of shoes for doctors or medical students:
Waterproof uppers and soles
The hospital floor may have all kinds of fluids which you do not want seeping into your shoe. This is why you should check that the shoes are made with liquid-resistant materials. Check for a waterproof label or the description to confirm if they’re water-resistant. In addition to preventing liquid from getting in, water-resistant shoes are also easier to wash and have a quick dry time.
Slip-on Feature
This is not an essential feature but it’s a bonus since it makes putting on and taking off the shoes much easier and convenient. Some are even designed such that you do not need to use your hands to touch them while putting the shoes on.
Grip
Another important element is the shoe’s grip. The best shoes should come with anti-slip components since doctors may need to work on a slippery surface or wet floor occasionally. An excellent grip and oil-resistant rubber outsoles will prevent a fall or an unexpected incident at work.
Light build
Strong construction may not always be the best since a heavy frame can add excess weight to your feet, making you more tired even faster. Lightweight shoes are best for healthcare employees since it helps them move faster and easily.
Breathable Materials
While a good pair of shoes should be stain-resistant, comfortable, and durable, you might also want to check that they contain breathable materials such as memory foam, EVA foam, latex, synthetic, and fabrics that prevent sweat. Sweaty feet are not fun to walk in. One way to counter this is to wear socks that can quickly absorb your sweat.
Shoe Size
When it comes to shoes, size is a vital factor since the size of the shoe can either lead to a well-fit shoe or foot problems. Shoes that are too small can cause blisters and cramping while larger ones can easily lead to falls.
Durability
Nobody wants to keep buying shoes every few months, which is why you need to check that the shoes are built to take a beating for an extended period of time, especially when it comes to shoes for surgeons. Make sure to get a pair of shoes that can offer at least 6 months of daily use.
Best Shoes for Medical Residents on the Market
If you’re on the hunt for the best shoes for doctors, then you’ve come to the right place as we have shortlisted some of the best shoes you can find for doctors and healthcare practitioners.
Alegria Women’s Classic Clog
Specs
Material: Leather
Sole: Rubber
Key Features:
Slip-resistant mild rocker outsole
Great footbed
In-step collar
The Alegria Women’s Classic Clog is made with leather on the top with memory foam and latex insoles to offer stable construction and ultimate comfort. With a short 1.5-inch heel and a 1-inch platform, this pair of shoes are designed to support your feet while on the move or even if you’re just standing.
Speaking about support, the shoes have top-notch arch support and tremendous alignment for maximum shock absorption. The shoes also come in a range of sizes to fit different feet with ease and snug.
In addition to that, the clogs also come in various ranges of colors and finishes for female doctors to pick one that suits their mood and outfit. All in all, the Alegria Classic Clog is one of the best shoes for doctors since it provides ideal support for the whole foot so that you can walk and stand for hours in comfort.
Pros
- Good arch support and anti-compression insole.
- Made from memory foam and latex.
- Stable levels
- Variable colors and designs
- Adjustable side buckle
Cons
- Not suitable for those with wide feet
ASICS GT-2000 7
Specs
Material: Speva Foam
Sole: Rubber
Key Features:
FlyteFoam Lyte Technology
Forefoot GEL Technology
SpevaFoam Lasting
Organic Nanofiber Cushion
DUOMAX support system
ASICS is a popular sports shoe manufacturer but their running shoes are also great for healthcare professionals. The lightweight foam insoles are comfortable to stand in without adding on excess weight.
The running shoes feature gel cushioning at the bottom to decrease the pressure in your feet and absorb shock to cut down pain and soreness in the legs and knees. This amazing feature provides steady levels while walking or running. The ASICS GT-2000 7 comes with double layers of mesh to provide a smooth forefoot and wider toe box room.
Pros
- High quality structural support.
- A comfortable ride with breathable materials.
- Comes in many colors.
- Good arch support.
- Lightweight materials.
Cons
- Despite a roomy toe box, it still might not be suitable for wide feet.
Crocs Women’s Mercy Work Clog
Specs
Material: Croslite
Sole: Rubber
Key Features
Superior-gripping soles
Croslite materials
Closed-cell resin
Contoured footbed
Crocs are a popular shoe manufacturer that’s known for their comfortable rubber shoes. The Crocs Mercy Work Clog is also another comfortable option that works well to offer good support that meets the high demands of their everyday job.
The Crocs shoe model has a unique design that’s a cross between canvas boat shoes and jelly sandals. Crocs have also designed some of their models for men but that will be reviewed later. The material used for the shoes is not rubber but a soft foam resin known as Croslite that offers good shock absorption.
The slip-on shoes are perfect for doctors since they keep their feet supported, massaged, and well-ventilated to get through a busy day without developing blisters or feet aches. Crocs Mercy Work Clog is one of the best shoes for doctors, especially for those working in an overburdened environment.
Pros
- Maximum support.
- Easy slip-on.
- Lightweight material.
Cons
- Not true in size.
- Some faced a few issues with the heel strap.
New Balance 608×5 Cross Trainer Shoes
Specs
Material: Man-made, Polyurethane
Sole: Rubber
Key Features
ABSORB technology
Slip-resistant rubber outsole
Outsole flex grooves
Internal shank
New Balance is a popular shoe brand for athletes and sports enthusiasts. The company is a market leader in the footwear industry. But their shoes are not just great for sports, they’re also a great choice for healthcare models. One such product is the New Balance 608v5 that comes packed with dense features.
The 608×5 cross trainer shoes have a lace-up design with a wide range of components including the ABZORB technology that provides a super comfortable cushioning system and shock absorption to protect your feet. The uppers also come with perforation in all parts of the shoes for better ventilation and to keep your feet dry and comfy. Since the exterior is made of leather, you can wipe off any dirt or spills from the shoe easily.
Pros
- Comfortable cushioning system.
- Breathable fabric lining.
- Easy to pair with outfits.
Cons
- Not very durable.
- Tight toe box.
CALZURO Autoclavable Clog
Spec
Material: Rubber
Sole: Rubber
Key Features:
Can be sanitized and wiped off.
Well-ventilated.
Anti-static
The Italian-made CALZURO Autoclavable Clog slip-on shoe offers many great features that make them great shoes for doctors and surgeons. The shoes can be autoclaved, machine washable, sterilized, and bleached to kill off any potentially harmful microbes.
The slip resistant outsole works to support your feet even when you have to walk through wet floors or slippery surfaces. Thanks to perforated uppers, the doctor shoes offer plenty of ventilation to stay dry and comfy for hours.
Pros
- Italian made shoes in various colors.
- Lightweight and durable materials.
- Suitable for those suffering from plantar fasciitis and Achilles Tendonitis.
- Easy to clean and sanitize since it’s machine washable.
- Eco-friendly materials.
Cons
- Tight toe box.
- Lack of endurable ventilation.
Skechers Women’s Work Relaxed Fit
Specs
Material: Leather, foam
Sole: Rubber
Key Features:
Relaxed Fit design
FlexSole midsole
Electrical hazard
Stretch top panel
Slip-resistant rubber outsoles.
The Skechers Women’s Work Relaxed Fit is one of the best shoes for doctors on the market as it features a supportive feel, comfortable cushions, and non-slip soles. In fact, they’re so comfortable that many have vouched for the product saying that they do not feel any pain on their feet, heels, ankles, and legs when they have this pair of shoes on. This comfort persists even when you work for more than eight hours or take a long shift on your feet, making them a great choice of shoes for doctors and medical professionals.
When it comes to footwear, durability is a top consideration since you want to get a product that can last you through many months of use before it needs a replacement. Thankfully, the Skechers shoes are made with quality materials that can last you months, if not years.
The work shoe even comes with a Relaxed Fit design to offer more room in the toe areas to suit those with wider feet. The added memory foam boosts the cushioning system for maximum comfort that lasts for hours.
Pros
- True size
- Solid and flexible soles.
- Easy to clean.
Cons
- Bulky construction.
- Might not be comfy for the first time.
Hawkwel Women’s Nursing Shoes
Specs
Material: Synthetic leather
Sole: Rubber
Key Features:
Neutral arch support
Slip-resistant materials
Insole foam
If you’re looking for a pair of comfortable footwear that also looks good enough to match your style and personality, then this might just be the one for you. The Hawkwel Nursing Shoes are designed with midsole cushioning and soft foam padding to reduce heel pain and offer great arch support for medical professionals. The slip-resistant sole also helps to ensure you do not slip while working.
The shoes come in two colors: white and black. You may want to go for the black color version if you worry about it getting dirty but even the white pair is made of synthetic leather that’s easy to wash with soap.
Pros
- Simple to slip-on.
- Slip resistant soles made of rubber.
- Good grip and safe fit.
- Removable foam insoles.
- Midsole cushioning with anti compression insole.
Cons
- Not much space in the box.
- Not suitable for those with wide feet.
Brooks Ghost 11 Running Shoes
Specs
Material: Mesh upper
Key Features:
Balanced cushioning system (BioMoGo DNA and DNA LOFT)
Good foot support
Segmented crash pad
Brooks is another popular footwear provider that’s a market leader in terms of introducing new technologies to their products. One of the best shoes for nurses and doctors is the Brooks Ghost 11 running shoes that come with a balanced cushioning system and a segmented crash pad for wearers to feel comfortable even while working long shifts.
Pros
- Excellent traction.
- Exact bounce and solid heel strikers.
- Good arch support.
- Breathable mesh upper.
Cons
- Bulky
- Short
- Mesh material is not very durable.
Croc Crocband Clog
Spec
Material: Synthetic
Sole: Rubber
Key Features:
Ventilation ports
Synthetic soles
We discussed female croc doctor shoes, now here’s a pair of unisex medical shoes by Cros that can be worn by both male and female healthcare workers. This slip-on shoe comes with a high quality cushioning system to ensure your feet stay comfy for many hours.
Just like many Croc shoes, you will notice ventilation holes on the upper so that your feet are always dry, clean, and breathable. The doctor shoes are made of Croslite that’s lightweight yet still firm enough to protect your feet.
Though the shoes may look like a pair of slip slops, they have a heel strap at the back for you to take them to work or other circumstances. Overall, the shoes offer good durability, comfort, and flexibility to make them the best shoes for doctors.
Pros
- A wide range of colors to choose from.
- Lightweight and solid.
- Superior comfort.
Cons
- Not true size.
Rockport Waterproof Wingtip Oxford Shoes
Specs
Material: Leather
Sole: Synthetic
Key Features:
Sponge EVA footbed
Slip-resistant outsoles
HydroShield waterproofing
If you’re after a pair of good-looking shoes that are also suitable for a business code with black or cordovan, then this pair of oxford shoes are a top choice. In addition to being comfortable, it’s also stain resistant enough to handle all kinds of weather and conditions. The work shoes will ensure that your feet are always dry and elegant thanks to its waterproof components.
Pros
- Great waterproofing.
- Easy slip-on.
- Elegant dress shoes for doctors.
- Good comfort.
- Stain resistance.
Cons
- Lack of arch support.
- May need a while to break into.
Merrell Women’s Encore Breeze 3
Specs
Material: Fabric
Sole: Rubber
Key Features:
Air cushions insoles
Aegis antimicrobial lining
Merrell is a fantastic outdoor activity shoe brand that’s designed its products for backpackers and hikers in mind. Knowing that these shoes are perfect for adventurers, healthcare professionals may find that their design and technology make their products one of the best shoes for doctors.
The comfortable slip-on Encore Breeze 2 work shoes feature mesh upper and faux leather collars that are breathable and easy to clean. The mesh lining ensures fresh and dry feet while the rubber outsoles provide a sleek grip and sturdy traction in each step. The Merrell work shoes are perfect for long-hour work days thanks to superior support for the heel.
Pros
- Fashionable sneakers are made from good, durable materials.
- Slip-on feature that’s easy to wear.
- Arch support included.
- Comfy and lightweight.
- Stain resistance.
Cons
- The heel area is quite small.
La Milano Double Monk
Specs
Material: Leather, synthetic
Sole: Foam
Key Features
Two monk straps in cap-toe areas.
Argentine leather with a burnished hand.
Concealable elastics.
Stacked heel design.
The La Milano Double Monk offers an Oxford style loader that’s made of leather and suede. The materials do not only offer top notch quality but they’re also durable enough to last through years of usage.
The shoes also sport concealable elastics and slip-resistant components to prevent accidents while walking across different surfaces. The cap-toe loafer also makes it suitable for business and formal events. This is a pair of slip resistant doctor shoes that physicians can wear to meetings with management boards or partners.
Pros
- Fashionable loafers in a classical style that’s suitable for meetings.
- Made from argentine leather.
- Easy slip on and good fit.
- Super cozy.
- Good slip resistance.
Cons
- Might cause an odor in your feet.
Dansko Professional Clog for Women
Specs
Material: Leather, fabric
Sole: Suede
Key Features:
Sufficient wiggle room in the toe box
PU outsoles
Rocker bottom with polyurethane outsole
Antimicrobial lining
Dansko is a prominent footwear provider that was founded in the 1990s in Denmark. The brand specializes in work shoes that are comfortable enough for work while still allowing the wearers to feel confident in their style. The Dansko Professional clog also offers good slip resistance for a medical professional to feel confident when stepping on different surfaces.
The Dansko Professional Clogs are made of leather upper and full rubber soles that are spill-resistant and easy to clean with just a few simple steps. Since the materials of the Dansko clogs are so high quality, you can expect the price tag to be a little on the premium side.
Nonetheless, the Dansko Professional clog offers plenty of room in the toe box to accommodate healthcare workers with wider feet. The anti-fatigue rocker bottom also supports your back muscles and enhances the spine’s curve for medical professionals to last through a long shift.
Pros
- Huge heel strike.
- Comfy slip ons.
- Good, high quality material.
- Different designs and patterns to choose from.
Cons
- Might be a little expensive.
- No removable insole.
Sloggers Women’s Waterproof Rain Shoes
Specs
Material: Recyclable
Key Features
Weather protection
Waterproofing components
Soft medical-grade materials
Sloggers Waterproof Rain Shoes are the best shoes for doctors who work on slippery surfaces. Since this footwear is a waterproof slip-on, it can quickly diminish any sudden accidents from wet floors. The doctor shoes even come in a wide range of patterns for you to pick and choose one that matches your outfit.
The Sloggers work shoe is made of soft rubber and medical-grade elements that provide great traction to keep your feet safely in place. Not only that, but the materials also mean that you get to clean them without much hassle.
Since it’s a waterproof rain shoe, the outsoles are made with anti-slip components. This means that you can run across slippery or wet surfaces and not even worry about sliding and falling flat on the ground.
Pros
- Good traction.
- Affordable price tag.
- Fun patterns.
- Easy to take on and off.
Cons
- Tight in upper areas.
- Might be heavy.
Birkenstock Unisex Boston
Specs
Material: Leather
Sole: Synthetic, foam
Key Features:
Contoured cork footbed
Layered foam on the top of the cork footbed
100% Leather
Birkenstock shoes were made in Germany back in 1774 and are designed as a pair of daily clog or comfy sandals that can support you as you walk. The Unisex Boston work shoe is a dense and comfortable clog that you can rely on throughout the year.
Equipped with a buckle strap, you can adjust the shoe to fit your feet. The latex footbed can also be molded to your feet while the heel cups ensure that your feet are comfortable thanks to a balanced body weight.
The product offers supreme support for the entire foot which is why it’s perfect for a healthcare professional. Birkenstock Unisex Boston is easily one of the best shoes for doctors who spend long shifts in hospitals.
Pros
- Excellent materials with a simple design.
- Extremely durable.
- Cushioned footbed.
- Adjustable buckle strap.
Cons
- Heavy construction.
Dr. Scholl’s Men’s Winder II
Dr. Scholl’s shoes are all about quality and this pair of surgical shoes include 100% imported leather and a synthetic sole for slip and oil resistance to make them the best shoes for doctors. The work shoe even comes with a patented Lock Step Outsole that meets SATRA TM64 and TM144 standards.
In addition to being trendy, the Dr. Scholl’s Men’s Winder II shoes feature a handy slip-on system with elastic pieces around the mouth of the shoe that also ensure ease of removal. The shoes also feature Memory Foam Cool Fit and Dri-Lex moisture-wicking lining to ensure fresh and dry feet all day while the Aegis Microbe Shield helps to control odor, which can be great for medical students and doctors.
Pros
- Easy slip-on system.
- Full heel ensures feet stay in place when moving around.
- Dri-lex moisture wicking lining for odor control.
- Excellent tread design to prevent slipping.
Cons
- Leather might take some time to wear in.
- Possible blisters at the top of the heel from shoe rubbing.
Allbirds Tree Runners
Allbirds Tree Runners might offer a little bit less stability but they’re still an extremely comfortable sneaker that can be worn all day with minimal foot pain. Not only are they designed for added comfort, but the shoes are made with all natural ingredients such as Eucalyptus tree fiber and castor bean to be environmentally friendly.
Pros
- Machine washable athletic shoes.
- Eco-friendly materials with a cool minimalistic design.
- Extremely breathable to reduce odors.
Cons
- Offers less stability compared to a performance running shoe.
Reebok Flexagon Force 3 Trainer
Reebok is known for its sports shoes and it’s no surprise to see one of their products on the list of best shoes for medical students. The Flexagon Force Training shoes are one of the best tennis shoes for the doctors category that makes a great and comfortable sneaker for doctors and healthcare workers. These Flexagon tennis shoes are also breathable with shock-absorbing memory foam sock liner and midsole cushioning to prevent any foot pain.
Pros
- Affordable price.
- Breathable materials.
- Sleek design with multiple color choices.
Cons
- Shoes might run small.
- Somewhat hard insoles.
Conclusion
We’ve finally come to the end of our article on the best shoes for doctors. When shopping for the best shoes for medical practitioners, you need to keep in mind what their job requires such as long periods of standing or hours of walking around. This is why it is important for you to get a pair of shoes that offer extra comfort. Nonetheless, you still need to keep in mind that some shoes demand a short period of breaking in before they become comfortable.
Most Comfortable Shoes for Doctors FAQ
What types of shoes do doctors wear?
Doctors often wear lace-up shoes, clogs, sneakers, slip-ons, orthopedic shoes, loafers, and velcro shoes. Regardless of the type of shoes they wear, they need to be secure and comfortable enough for everyday use and long days.
Are memory foam shoes good for doctors and nurses?
Memory foam might just be one of the best materials for doctor shoes since the material reduces stress in the foot caused by long periods of standing and walking.
Why do medical workers wear shoe covers?
Bodily fluids such as blood may spill in a hospital setting which may lead to the spread of contagious disease. This is why it is important for them to wear shoe covers to protect themselves from any diseases present in their workplace.