The Best Nursing Shoes of 2025

As a nurse, you’re on your feet all day – which is just one reason why it’s important to find a reliable pair of nursing shoes that are comfortable, durable, and look great with your scrubs. Believe me, when I first started out as a nurse, it took me some time to find a pair that really supported me.

So, let me save you some time! Here’s your complete guide to finding the best nursing shoes for your daily needs, and the best brands and pairs to shop for right now.

Why Proper Footwear Matters for Nurses

Proper footwear matters for nurses because you’ll spend hours standing and walking around – you need shoes that will keep you comfortable and free from long-term tension and pain.

Supporting your feet as a nurse is effectively supporting the rest of your body. Comfortable shoes, such as those with raised arches or cushioned insoles, will help to reduce general fatigue and discomfort. Of course, it’s also vital to find a pair of shoes that fit you well so you can avoid rubbing and slipping. The right shoes, too, will also support your joints and back.

“The impact of walking, running, dancing—really any movement—carries through from the ground up, affecting not only our feet but also our knees, hips, and lower back. Wearing the wrong footwear can throw off your natural walking pattern and standing alignment, leading to discomfort and potential strain throughout your entire body.”

-Brandon Haghverdian, MD

Breathability is also important regardless of the temperature you’re working in. A breathable pair of shoes will reduce fatigue and discomfort, and the best fits will reduce blisters and corns.

Types of Nursing Shoes: Choosing the Right Style for Your Needs

The best types of nursing shoes to consider include sneakers, clogs, and slip-ons. However, the type of footwear best for you and your daily workload may vary.

1. Sneakers

Sneakers tend to be popular with nurses looking for a modern, stylish look that’s easy to pair with most scrubs. They’re also highly comfortable and easy to move around in. That said, they’re not the most durable.

2. Clogs

Clogs might not be as fashionable as sneakers, but they’re the grippiest footwear choice for nurses, meaning they’re your best protection against slipping and falling. I personally prefer clogs out of all nursing shoes because they offer the best balance of comfort, support, and visual appeal.

3. Slip-Ons

As the name suggests, these shoes are the easiest to slip on and off! They’re also some of the most comfortable footwear for nursing, even if, again, they’re not the most fashionable.

Key Features to Consider in Nursing Shoes

When shopping for a good pair of nursing shoes, you should always prioritise arch support, cushioning, slip resistance, breathability, general comfort, and durability.

1. Arch Support and Cushioning

If you are flatfooted, you may need arch support, and if you suffer from foot strain, overpronation, or plantar fascitis, you could benefit from extra cushioning or specific insoles tailored to your foot shape.

2. Slip Resistance and Safety

There are all kinds of slip and safety risks in hospitals and healthcare settings. Therefore, look for a grippy pair of shoes that don’t sacrifice control for fashion.

3. Breathability and Comfort

A breathable pair of shoes will reduce sweating, overheating, and rubbing. Without breathability and a comfortable fit, you risk rubbing your feet and causing blisters.

4. Durability

You shouldn’t have to keep buying new pairs of nursing shoes for the sake of it. Choose a pair designed for long shifts on your feet, not just for short walks or excursions. My advice here is to avoid sneakers wherever possible – there are plenty of slip-ons and clogs that look great and which stand the test of time.

How to Choose the Best Nursing Shoes

Beyond the basics, take time to understand your foot type, match your shoes to your work environment, and look for brands you can trust.

1. Understanding Your Foot Type

Carefully measure your feet and look for shoes that are designed for your width and arches for the best long-term support. As mentioned, you may need arch support or certain insoles if you have flat feet.

2. Matching Shoes to Your Work Environment

Carefully consider the scrubs you wear and whether or not the shoes you’re purchasing match your colours and dress code. Consult your HR team if you’re worried – and beyond that, if you’re in a nursing role where you are on long shifts, you’ll need a highly durable, comfortable pair of shoes you can slide in and out of with ease.

3. Tips for First-Time Buyers

Here are a few final tips for first-time buyers that I’ve picked up over the years:

• Look for brands you recognise and/or trust – and, read what other nurses and buyers have to say.

• Ask for help from your doctor or podiatrist if you have difficulty finding comfortable shoes that fit.

• Be prepared to try multiple types and brands before you find the perfect look and fit.

• Purchase additional pairs of shoes once you find a pair that suits your needs.

• Look for shoes that you can easily keep clean and sanitary when heading in and out of work.

Best Nursing Shoes of 2025: Top Picks

My top picks for the best nursing shoes of 2025 include the Sanita Open Heel Clogs, the Oxypas Ultralite Classic Lisa Clogs, and the Kadee Work Flat Clogs.

Let’s take a look at why these shoes come top of the Medshop leaderboard!

1. Best Classic Nursing Shoes: Sanita Open Heel Clogs

Flexible, breathable, and slip-resistant, Sanita Open Heel Clogs will support you comfortably throughout your work day with zero complaints. They’re even recognised by the American Podiatric Medial Association!

“Extremely comfortable to wear for long periods in all conditions. Have worn this brand since 2004 and have always found them to be reliable .” 

- Rosemary R.

2. Best Nurses Shoes for Hot Weather: Oxypas Ultralite Classic Lisa Clogs

If you’re looking for a snazzier design and a little more breathability, Oxypas Ultralite Classic Lisa Clogs are lightweight, open-designed, and made with an antibacterial lining. They’re great at protecting you against abrasion and moisture, too.

3. Best Lightweight Nursing Shoes: Crocs Women's Kadee Work Flat

Simple yet effective, the Crocs Womens Kadee Work Flats are low-fuss and super-breathable. They’re designed to massage your feet, too – with non-marking material on the outsole.

4. Best Nursing Shoe Brand for Value: Crocs Classic Clog

Crocs Classic Clogs are still in fashion – and they’re some of the best-value nursing shoes on the block. Super-hygienic and built to last, these nursing shoes are ideal if you need extra arch support.

5. Best Nursing Shoes for Clinicals: Sanita Wave Professional Knit Shoe

For great-looking breathability and slip resistance, the Sanita Wave Professional Knit Shoes are a great easy-clean choice. They’ll even help to prevent cramp and relieve pain – ideal for long shifts.

6. Best Nursing Shoes for Back Support: Sanita San Flex Clog Closed Heel

The Sanita San Flex Clog Closed Heel is great for reducing pressure and cramping, ensuring your legs and back are relieved even when you stand around for long periods. It’s designed wider than most, meaning you can comfortably wear these pairs with socks for extended periods.

“Comfortable, hardworking and supportive shoes. Non slip and light.” 

- Bianca D.

7. Best Nursing Shoes for Hygiene: Oxypas Eva Nursing Clog

Designed to be antibacterial and antifungal, Oxypas Eva Nursing Clogs are easy to wash in up to 50 degrees and even to sterilise from day to day. They’re comfortable and stylish, too! 

8. Best Nursing Shoes for Style: Infinity Flow Footwear Women's Athletic White

Few nursing shoes look and perform this good – the Infinity Flow Footwear Women's Athletic White is a top choice if you want to balance slip-free practicality with an eye-catching design that’s easy to pair with most scrubs.

9. Best Shoes for Paediatric Nurses: Sanita ShoutOut Clog Open Heel

Bold and fun, these supportive, shock-absorbent clogs look great as part of a paediatric work outfit! Highly breathable and water-resistant, the Sanita ShoutOut Clog Open Heel is available in a range of styles for kids’ healthcare departments.

10. Best Waterproof Nursing Shoes: Oxypas Bodylight Clogs

Oxypas Bodylight Clogs are superb for keeping water and moisture at bay thanks to their comfy, open design. However, our customers also enjoy the fantastic price and range of colours – not to mention the posture boosts you’ll get along the way.

11. Best Leather Shoes for Nurses: Sanita Wave Leather with Carbon Style Closed Heel Black

These super-stylish nursing shoes prove that you really don’t have to sacrifice fashion for functionality and comfort! The Sanita Wave Leather with Carbon Style Closed Heel Black is popular with buyers for its brilliant shock absorbence, machine washability, and breathability. They’re specifically designed for nurses, too!

Conclusion

As you can see, there’s plenty to consider and look for when it comes to finding the best nursing shoes. However, the 11 nursing shoes I’ve collected for you to shop around for here are based on both my experience and those of our buyers – meaning you’re off to a great start in hunting down comfortable, supportive, and long-lasting work shoes.

Sources

Clogs, S. (n.d.). Sanita San Flex Clog Open Heel. In Medshop Australia. Retrieved July 14, 2025, from https://www.medshop.com.au/products/sanita-clog-open-heel

Crocs Womens Kadee Work Flat. (n.d.). In Medshop Australia. Retrieved July 14, 2025, from https://www.medshop.com.au/products/crocs-womens-kadee-work-flat

How the Right Shoes Can Help Prevent Backache and Improve Posture. (n.d.). In Hoag Orthopedic Institute. Retrieved July 14, 2025, from https://www.hoagorthopedicinstitute.com/blog/2025/april/how-the-right-shoes-can-help-prevent-backache-an

Oxypas. (n.d.). Oxypas Bodylight Clogs. In Medshop Australia. Retrieved July 14, 2025, from https://www.medshop.com.au/products/oxypas-bodylight-clogs

Oxypas Ultralite Classic Lisa Clogs. (n.d.). In Medshop Australia. Retrieved July 14, 2025, from https://www.medshop.com.au/products/oxypas-ultralite-classic-lisa-clogs

Sanita San Flex Clog Closed Heel. (n.d.). In Medshop Australia. Retrieved July 14, 2025, from https://www.medshop.com.au/products/sanita-clog-closed

Sanita ShoutOut Clog Open Heelstrap. (n.d.). In Medshop Australia. Retrieved July 14, 2025, from https://www.medshop.com.au/products/sanita-shoutout-clog-open-heelstrap-pink-size-36

Sanita Wave Leather Clog with Carbon Style Closed Heel Black. (n.d.). In Medshop Australia. Retrieved July 14, 2025, from https://www.medshop.com.au/products/sanita-wave-leather-with-carbon-style-closed-heel-black

Sanita Wave Professional Knit Shoe. (n.d.). In Medshop Australia. Retrieved July 14, 2025, from https://www.medshop.com.au/products/sanita-professional-knit