What are the best shoes for nurses? Every nurse will have different needs for their feet based on their own physical make-up, what kind of work they do, and any special needs they might have (such as no arch to high arch), but one type of nursing shoe that has stood the test of time has been the clog.
Clogs for nurses are a popular choice for a few different reasons—they’re comfortable, easy to clean, easy to slip on and off, and they provide a lot of support for long hours on your feet. But today’s clogs have a lot of different options, so it can be hard to choose the right clog for you. Our solution? Ask real nurses! Nurse.org recently posed the question of “What’s the best clog for nurses?” on our Instagram page and here is a look at top clog recommendations from our real-life nurse community.
1. Dansko Women’s Clog
Buy on Amazon now starting at $79.98
Our number one spot belongs to the Dansko Women’s 2.0 clog. These much-loved clogs come highly recommended for their comfort and functionality. With the Dansko high arch support technology, padded insoles, and memory foam, medical professionals say these clogs actually help reduce their back, leg, and foot pain after a long day’s work. In fact, these clogs are a godsend for those suffering from plantar fasciitis per customer reviews. They are 100% leather making them easy to clean and come in fun colors with a 0.75-inch heel for a little boost.
If you do choose the Dansko—which, for the record, was the most recommended nurse clog from our post—long-time Danska fan ilsebmorris recommends trying them on before you buy since their hand-crafted quality means the fit can be a bit different for some people. “It is hard getting them as they are hand stitched it is important to try them on before you buy them,” ilsebmorris stated. “I tried other brands, but only buy them for years, I have gone through many pairs.”
2. Crocs Women’s Neria Pro Clog
Buy on Amazon starting at $39.99
The Crocs Women’s Neria Pro clogs are a great option for people standing on their feet all day. These nursing shoes are lightweight with a roomy toe box and a 100% non-slip guarantee. Wearers will appreciate the wide, comfortable fit, and a removable footbed provides the necessary arch support and extra heel cushion. Best yet, they are inexpensive and easy to clean, withstanding the necessary bleach wipe-downs at the end of the day.
3. Alegria Women’s Kayla Clog
Buy on Amazon starting at $69.99
Nurses love the Alegria brand for clogs! Podiatrists too! Certified by the American Podiatric Medical Association (APMA) as recommended footwear, these clogs are a go-to for a reliable, comfortable fit with a supportive arch and elastic padded collar at the ankle. They slide easily on and off without you even having to touch them, making them perfect for transitioning at home. Tough on the exterior and 100% leather, these shoes protect your toes and feet from heavy equipment and are tested to be slip-resistant.
4. Sanita Pro Patent Professional Clogs for Women
Buy on Amazon starting at $61.03
These shiny Sanita patent leather clogs are professional and comfortable with the APMA seal of approval for overall foot health. Nurses will appreciate their top-notch shock absorption with a 1-inch platform and 1.75-inch heel to put some cushion between your feet and the hard, concrete floor. Their orthopedic rocker sole provides optimal arch support and prevents foot and back fatigue. These clogs are durable, stylish and supportive for any type of healthcare worker who spends long days on their feet. “I loved my Sanitas as much as Danskos!” shannon_elizabeth_71 commented.
5. Calzuro Classic Autoclavable Clog Without Holes – Made in Italy
Calzuros is a great Italian clog brand that is becoming more and more well-known in the medical field. It’s designed for comfort and functionality with a slight heel to reduce fatigue and a slip-resistant sole. Amazingly, the clogs are machine washable, bleachable, dishwasher-safe (I know this sounds so weird, but you can apparently wash some clogs in commercial dishwashers) and even autoclavable if you want complete sterilization. They come in a variety of cool colors to give the wearer a stylish look in their scrubs or work outfits.
6. Skechers Work Women’s Clog
Did you know that Skechers makes clogs? This famous brand offers cute slip-on clogs in a variety of patterns and colors with a 1-inch black rubber sole that really grips the floor. Featuring a padded collar and soft flannel fabric lining for a cushy feel, these shoes are perfect for working long days on your feet. Reviewers say it takes a couple of days to break them in, but they are soft, lightweight, and very comfy for wearers.
7. Anywear Zone Men’s and Women’s Clog Nurse Shoes
Buy on Amazon starting at $19.99
These Anywear Zone unisex clogs are designed for medical professionals but can be used for multiple activities. The swivel back strap makes it easy to slip them on and off whether you’re at home gardening/cleaning or at work standing on your feet all day. Nurses will appreciate the exceptional cushion and shock absorption as well as the fact that they are lightweight, durable, and easy to clean.
8. C&C Sweden Clogs by the Scandinavian Company
These eye-catching, unique clogs are lesser known amongst healthcare professionals, but Scandinavians always optimize functionality and comfort with great style. These clogs are handcrafted in breathable patent leather and come in open or full-back designs. The soft, supportive foam insole provides plenty of cushion for your feet and the polyurethane rocker bottom is anti-slip for a secure stride in an attractive heel.
9. Cherokee Women’s Exact Clog
These inexpensive, durable clogs are a classic choice for nurses from a tried-and-true brand. The closed-back slip-resistant clogs are washable, lightweight, and flexible. The removable, cushioned insole provides good support and comfort that is APMA-approved.
10. Dansko Women’s Brenda Mule
Buy on Amazon starting at $139.95
At the top or bottom of this list, Dansko clogs are hands down a first choice for healthcare professionals. These women’s Brenda mules are top-rated for quality and comfort. They are 100% leather and use memory foam in the footbed for extra cushioning with a lightweight outsole for long-lasting wear. Plus, how great is that stylish cheetah pattern? (Black is also available if cheetah print is not your jam.)
And last but not least, we would be remiss if we didn’t mention that a few nurses in our community mentioned that clogs aren’t right for every person, so if you are having any type of foot or heel pain, be sure to talk to a podiatrist who can help you find the best shoe for your feet.
