As a nurse, you know that long shifts on your feet can take a serious toll on your body. Whether you’re running between patient rooms or standing for hours during surgeries, comfort is essential. The right pair of shoes can make a world of difference in reducing pain, fatigue, and even improving your overall work performance. In this guide, we’ve rounded up the best comfortable shoes for nurses in 2025, so you can choose the perfect pair to get you through those long, demanding shifts.
Why Comfort Matters for Nurses
Nurses spend hours on their feet, often without the opportunity to sit down or rest. Over time, this can lead to foot, back, and leg pain. Investing in a pair of comfortable, supportive shoes can help alleviate this discomfort and prevent long-term health issues such as plantar fasciitis, bunions, or chronic back pain.
When choosing shoes, key factors to look for include:
- Arch support: Prevents foot fatigue and provides stability.
- Cushioning: Helps reduce pressure on the feet and joints.
- Slip resistance: Essential for avoiding slips and falls in busy hospital settings.
- Breathability: Keeps your feet cool and dry during long shifts.
- Durability: Nurses need shoes that can withstand the wear and tear of daily use.
Now, let’s explore some of the best comfortable shoes for nurses in 2025.
1. Brooks Addiction Walker 2
Best for Arch Support and Cushioning
If you’re looking for a shoe that provides maximum support and cushioning, the Brooks Addiction Walker 2 is an excellent option. With its BioMoGo DNA cushioning, this shoe adapts to the shape of your foot, reducing the impact on your joints. The extended progressive diagonal rollbar offers superb arch support, making it ideal for those who suffer from flat feet or overpronation.
Key Features:
- Excellent arch support
- Plush cushioning
- Slip-resistant sole
- Durable leather upper
- Available in multiple sizes and widths
Why Nurses Love It: Nurses who wear the Brooks Addiction Walker 2 often report less foot pain and greater overall comfort, even after hours of walking and standing.
2. Nike Air Zoom Pulse
Best for Flexibility and Comfort
Designed specifically for healthcare workers, the Nike Air Zoom Pulse is engineered to provide the ultimate combination of comfort, flexibility, and durability. The Zoom Air cushioning gives you a responsive feel, while the stretchable mesh upper ensures that your feet have room to breathe. The shoe’s rubber outsole provides excellent grip, which is crucial for safety in clinical settings.
Key Features:
- Zoom Air cushioning for responsiveness
- Slip-on design for easy wear
- Stretch mesh upper for flexibility
- Rubber outsole for superior grip
- Machine washable
Why Nurses Love It: The Nike Air Zoom Pulse is a fan favorite among nurses because of its sporty feel, comfort, and convenience, especially for long shifts.
3. Dansko Professional Clogs
Best for All-Day Comfort and Durability
The Dansko Professional Clogs have been a staple in the healthcare community for years, and for good reason. These clogs feature a contoured footbed with excellent arch support and a rocker sole that promotes a natural stride, reducing foot fatigue. The slip-resistant outsole ensures that you stay safe on slippery hospital floors, while the leather upper is durable and easy to clean.
Key Features:
- Contoured footbed for arch support
- Slip-resistant outsole
- Leather upper for durability
- Available in various colors and designs
- Protective heel cap
Why Nurses Love It: Nurses love the Dansko Professional Clogs for their all-day comfort, support, and style. These shoes are ideal for those who need to stay on their feet for hours without compromising comfort or safety.
4. Asics Gel-Nimbus 25
Best for Cushioning and Shock Absorption
The Asics Gel-Nimbus 25 is a running shoe that also works wonders for nurses. Known for its gel cushioning technology, this shoe absorbs shock and reduces the impact on your feet and joints. The breathable mesh upper ensures your feet stay cool, while the spacious toe box provides extra room for comfort. The FlyteFoam midsole offers lightweight cushioning that’s ideal for long shifts.
Key Features:
- Gel cushioning for shock absorption
- Breathable mesh upper
- Lightweight and flexible
- Spacious toe box for comfort
- Durable outsole with excellent traction
Why Nurses Love It: Nurses who are on their feet all day love the Asics Gel-Nimbus 25 for its superior cushioning and support. Its shock absorption reduces strain, making it easier to walk or stand for extended periods.
5. Skechers Work Sure Track
Best for Budget-Friendly Comfort
If you’re looking for a budget-friendly yet comfortable option, the Skechers Work Sure Track is a great choice. These shoes feature memory foam insoles that provide cushioning and comfort all day long. The slip-resistant outsole ensures you stay steady on your feet, and the leather upper offers durability without sacrificing style.
Key Features:
- Memory foam insoles for comfort
- Slip-resistant outsole
- Padded collar and tongue for extra cushioning
- Leather upper for durability
- Available in various sizes
Why Nurses Love It: Nurses appreciate the Skechers Work Sure Track for its affordability and comfort. The memory foam insole provides an added layer of softness, making it perfect for long shifts on hard floors.
6. Hoka One One Bondi 8
Best for Maximum Cushioning
For nurses who prioritize cushioning and comfort, the Hoka One One Bondi 8 is an excellent option. Known for its thick EVA midsole, this shoe offers maximum cushioning, which helps reduce the strain on your feet, knees, and lower back. The wide base and meta-rocker design help stabilize your foot while walking, making it easier to stay on your feet for hours.
Key Features:
- Maximum cushioning with EVA midsole
- Wide base for stability
- Meta-rocker design for smooth transitions
- Breathable upper
- Durable rubber outsole
Why Nurses Love It: The Hoka One One Bondi 8 is a go-to choice for nurses who want maximum comfort and support. Its plush cushioning reduces foot fatigue, and the shoe’s stability helps you maintain a natural walking posture.
Conclusion: Choose the Right Shoes for You
Finding the best comfortable shoes for nurses is a personal choice, as comfort is subjective and varies from person to person. Whether you prioritize cushioning, arch support, or durability, it’s essential to choose a pair that meets your unique needs. With the right pair of shoes, you can make long shifts more manageable, reduce pain, and protect your long-term health.
In 2025, the shoes on this list are some of the best options available for nurses. Whether you’re looking for something budget-friendly or willing to splurge on high-performance footwear, these choices will help you stay comfortable and supported during those long hospital shifts.
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