Even for those of us who aren’t medical professionals, it’s easy to understand why male nurses would want to find the best nursing shoes for men.
Like other healthcare professionals, both male and female nurses often have to work long shifts on the punishing floors found in most healthcare facilities.
And as anyone who spends all day walking on concrete knows, if you’re not wearing the right shoes, standing on hard surfaces for 12-hour shifts can lead to all manner of back, joint and foot problems.
[image: CDC / Unsplash]
But finding the perfect shoe for nurses is arguably harder than it is for most professions, because comfort isn’t the only important factor.
Nursing shoes also have to provide enough slip resistance and grip to navigate the uniquely slippery surfaces that result from the occasional spill of bodily fluids.
To help our nursing brethren navigate more comfortably, in this post we’ll break down the five best shoes for male nurses on the market today.
And for those looking for a little more variety, we’ve also rounded up two dozen more comfortable and supportive options that didn’t quite crack our top five, but still provide excellent performance.
Our Top Picks↓
You can learn (a lot) more about each shoe further below, but here’s a quick run down of our favorites:
- Overall Best Men’s Nursing Shoes: Brooks Ghost 13 Running Shoes
- Best Nursing Shoes for Flat Feet: Dansko Men’s Professional Clog XP 2.0
- Most Stylish Men’s Nursing Shoes: Wolf & Shepherd Swiftknit Loafers
- Best Walking Shoes for Male Nurses: Saucony Omni Walker 3
- Best Tennis Shoes for Male Nurses: New Balance Men’s 680v6 Running Shoes
- Best Hoka Shoes for Male Nurses: Hoka One One Mens Bondi 7
- Best Nike Shoes for Male Nurses: Nike Men’s Tanjun Sneakers
The Best Shoes for Male Nurses
Breaking Down the Best Nursing Shoes for Men
- Brooks Ghost 13 Running Shoes
- Dansko Men’s Professional Clog XP 2.0
- Wolf & Shepherd Swiftknit Loafers
- Adidas Men’s Ultraboost Running Shoes
- Saucony Omni Walker 3
- New Balance Men’s 680v6 Running Shoes
- Brooks Adrenaline GTS 22
- Hoka One One Mens Bondi 7
- Clarks Men’s Cotrell Free Loafer
- Nike Men’s Tanjun Sneakers
- Brooks Men’s Adrenaline GTS 19
- Hoka One One Clifton 8
- Under Armour Men’s Charged Commit 2.0 Cross Trainer
- New Balance Fresh Foam 1080v11
- K-Swiss Men’s ST329 CMF Training Shoe
- ASICS Men’s Gel-Kayano Running Shoes
- New Balance Men’s 990 V5
- Brooks Men’s Addiction Walker Walking Shoes 14
- ASICS GEL-Cumulus 23
- Merrell Men’s Encore Rexton Leather Clogs
- Mizuno Men’s Wave Inspire 16
- Altra Men’s Torin 5
- Dansko Men’s Wynn Casual Shoes
- Sanita Pro Cabrio Professional Clogs
- Asics Gel-Quantum 180
- Hoka One One Arahi 5
- Keen Utility Men’s PTC Slip On 2
- Saucony Ride 14
- New Balance Men Fresh Foam 860v11
- Nike Men’s Air Monarch IV Cross Trainer
- Snibbs Spacecloud Work Sneaker
- The Recap ↓
Overall Best Mens Nursing Shoes ↓
Brooks Ghost 13 Running Shoes
Why They’re Great for Male Nurses:
Brooks’ Ghost model gets our top pick for the best men’s nurse shoes.
While these are technically athletic shoes designed for runners, they boast a bevy of shoe features and advanced technology that make them perfect for healthcare workers.
Up top, the 3D-printed breathable mesh upper allows your feet to breathe while keeping the shoes mercifully light, which becomes more important as your shift wears on.
In addition, the cushioned insole uses the Brooks’ BioMoGo DNA technology to provide underfoot cushioning and shock absorption, making them great for hospital nurses who log a lot of steps on each shift.
Plus, they’re available in a whopping 27 different colors, including an all black model that provides a more professional look for those who work in an office.
Promising Review:
I am an IR scrub technologist that wears lead every day. I have 10-22hr shifts. I needed my feet and legs to stop hurting. These puppies did the trick…
These feel as if I’m walking on airy cushions. They have great support. Super comfortable. My heels don’t slip.
I highly recommend these for people standing all day.
Best Shoes for Male Nurses with Flat Feet ↓
Dansko Men’s Professional Clog XP 2.0
Why They’re Great for Male Nurses:
Classic clogs are a popular choice among nurses and doctors who have high arches, and don’t get enough support from typical athletic shoes.
In addition to great arch support, the Dansko Men’s XP 2.0 has durable leather uppers that can handle whatever your shift throws at them and a padded collar that provides plenty of comfort while walking.
In addition, its roomy toe box means your toes won’t feel like sardines crammed into a can after a long shift, and it has a slip-resistant outsole that will help you maintain a sturdy grip on the ground.
Promising Review:
Definitely enjoy them for surgery, broke in the arch support and haven’t looked back, bought them one size larger as researched and kinda wish I went a size smaller, but still excellent shoe.
Most Stylish Shoes for Male Nurses ↓
Wolf & Shepherd Swiftknit Loafers
Why They’re Great for Male Nurses:
Wolf & Shepherd’s Swiftknit line combines the svelte and styilsh toe shape of a dress shoe with the support and comfort of a sneaker.
The result is the perfect shoe for nurses who want to look sharp while logging long hours on their feet.
In addition to the loafer pictured here, there’s also a Swift Knit Derby, which has the same comfort and sharp toe shape, but features laces instead of the slip-on loafer style.
(The Derby is also available in a wider range of colors, for those who want to find the perfect color to pair with their scrubs.)
Promising Review:
I love this shoe! I have two pair that I wear to work as a nurse practitioner and get compliments from patients almost daily. Very comfortable for long days on my feet!
– Charles R.
Adidas Men’s Ultraboost Running Shoes
Why They’re Great for Male Nurses:
Another runner that works great for nurses, Adidas’ Ultraboost model provides a super snug fit that almost feels more like you’re wearing a sock than a shoe.
Fortunately, it’s a lot more supportive than a sock thanks to responsive cushioning in the midsole that makes toe-to-heel transitions smooth, and a high quality outsole that provides both comfort and traction.
Promising Review:
The most comfortable sneaker I’ve ever worn. I’m in nursing school and got these for clinical because I needed comfy shoes while on my feet all day.
I can work a 12 hour day at work or 10 hour day at clinical on my feet all day running around and my feet aren’t nearly as sore as with other shoes.
– Katy
Best Walking Shoes for Male Nurses ↓
Saucony Omni Walker 3
Why They’re Great for Male Nurses:
Moving from running shoes to walkers, Saucony’s Omni model is a great option for those who prefer a walking shoe thanks to a thick rubber outsole that works well on all surfaces and a full-grain leather upper that looks sharp and can stand up to damn near anything.
In addition, the Omni provides good arch support and boasts Saucony’s PWRRUN midsole, which allows the shoe to maintain a lighter weight despite the durable leather upper.
Promising Review:
I needed a comfortable pair of shoes to wear to work. I decided to by these walking shoes by Saucony.
These have been the most comfortable shoes to work in that I have had in a VERY LONG TIME. They feel GREAT!!
– Sharon
Best Tennis Shoes for Male Nurses ↓
New Balance Men’s 680v6 Running Shoes
Why They’re Great for Male Nurses:
Rounding out our top five, New Balance’s 680v6 is an excellent choice because it combines a ton of support and comfort with an attractively affordable price.
The upper is made from a 50/50 mix of mesh and synthetic material, which makes the shoes both breathable and lightweight.
Inside, the midsole offers New Balance’s “ABZORB” cushioning, which (as its name implies) helps your feet absorb the shock of your body weight, helping to promote foot health and make each stride more comfortable.
Promising Review:
I am a nurse and I was looking for a new pair of work shoes. I got this shoe when it was a deal of the day so I was kind of worried!
But they are sooooo comfortable and fit great. I am a new fan of New Balances. Definitely a great shoe.
Brooks Adrenaline GTS 22
Promising Review:
Perfect for on your feet in the ER or OR constantly standing and moving on your feet. Good heel and arch support, very breathable and nice padded tongue.
Best Hoka Shoes for Male Nurses ↓
Hoka One One Mens Bondi 7
Promising Review:
These are the most cushioned shoes I’ve ever worn. I use these at work for 8-10 hours a day on concrete, no complaints.
The sole is really grippy despite not being labeled “anti slip”.
– RR
Clarks Men’s Cotrell Free Loafer
Promising Review:
Very nice shoes, get compliments all the time. Really soft, cool and light, can stay on them the whole day. They are also elegant.
I use them to work every day and as a medical doctor I really recommend them.
– DR.RPB
Best Nike Shoes for Male Nurses ↓
Nike Men’s Tanjun Sneakers
Promising Review:
I have flat feet, and finding a comfortable walking/running shoe is extremely difficult.
My job requires a LOT of walking several hours a day, and these feel like I’m wearing socks!
Incredibly soft and comfortable, and I can walk all day in my flat feet. I was so impressed with these that after just 3 days I ordered another pair in a different color.
– D.Cushman
Brooks Men’s Adrenaline GTS 19
Promising Review:
I’ve owned many different Brooks shoes, however, these are the most comfortable and supportive by far.
These shoes really reduce pain and add stability for your feet and legs.
Hoka One One Clifton 8
Promising Review:
The HOKA brand is well known in the running community and these particular shoes are outstanding…
…the shoe material is quite elastic and expands well when your feet get hot. the upper is softer than other brands and does not rub,
– Amazon Veteran
Under Armour Men’s Charged Commit 2.0 Cross Trainer
Promising Review:
Holy crap!! These shoes will elevate your shoe game for sure.
Good looks, comfort and Under Armor quality make these shoes a triple threat. You won’t go wrong with these kicks.
New Balance Fresh Foam 1080v11
Promising Review:
These have been a lifesaver! I also work 12 hour shifts in the ER as a nurse and I don’t feel like cutting my leg off anymore when I come home from the pain.
I have since bought additional pairs for running and leisure.
K-Swiss Men’s ST329 CMF Training Shoe
Promising Review:
I work in the healthcare field. These shoes not only are VERY EASY to clean if something spills on me, they provide me with great support.
10/10 purchase for me, and would recommend to anyone else looking for something easy to clean, works indoors, and wants good foot support.
– EC
ASICS Men’s Gel-Kayano Running Shoes
Promising Review:
I ordered these to be my new work shoes… Today I wore them for the first time for about 9 hours.
My feet felt great all through out the day and ordering a half size up helped me at least towards the end of my shift. I felt like I was walking on a nice cushion all day today.
– Olivia
New Balance Men’s 990 V5
Promising Review:
I use these shoes for my work shoes. My job requires me to be on my feet for 8 hours, walking and running…
I bought these because I owned a pair of the last model 990v4 and loved their comfort and durability. They lasted 2 and a quarter years of 5 day, 60 hour work weeks, totaling around 3900 hours of walking and wear and tear, and I never had any knee pain or foot pain.
Brooks Men’s Addiction Walker Walking Shoes 14
Promising Review:
If you’re into running or have to “walk the line” on concrete then these are the sneakers for you.
ASICS GEL-Cumulus 23
Promising Review:
Over and over again, right out of the box, the Gel Cumulus shoes feel perfect. They have a soft but stable ride.
Merrell Men’s Encore Rexton Leather Clogs
Promising Review:
These shoes get me through 12 hour shifts six days a week at the hospital as a surgery resident…
These Merrells give me great support and my feet don’t sweat. It even seems that they have helped with some back pain I have.
Mizuno Men’s Wave Inspire 16
Promising Review:
I run no more then 3 miles at a time outdoors with many trails, but also wear my running shoes to work in medical field, where I am on my feet all day.
My knees feel better l. I am enjoying these shoes very much…
– BigMack
Altra Men’s Torin 5
Promising Review:
Although the company seems to be marketing these shoes for workers who have to stand a lot, they are great for road running as well as trails.
The “non slip” grip and cush had me gliding along rocky trails, and I still had a pretty good ground feel considering how plush they are.
Dansko Men’s Wynn Casual Shoes
Promising Review:
I absolutely love these shoes. This is my second pair in 10 years. I am really glad the design has not changed.
They are comfortable for standing in for hours, they are extremely durable (for years), and they are quite comfortable once broken in.
Sanita Pro Cabrio Professional Clogs
Promising Review:
I’m a nurse practitioner and work long hours on my feet in both the outpatient office and inpatient hospital settings. These Sanita clogs are absolute lifesavers!
They are lighter than the Dansko but are just as sturdy. They offer excellent support and keep my feet from swelling.
Asics Gel-Quantum 180
Promising Review:
Comfy. Great for walking and being on your feet for extended periods with great support.
Hoka One One Arahi 5
Promising Review:
Most stable and Durable shoe I have ever owned.
The composition of the shoe… the fabric, the one piece tongue, the special flat laces, the best insole on the market, and the variety of sizes that are true consistently to your measurement are a powerful combination.
Keen Utility Men’s PTC Slip On 2
Promising Review:
Good shoes. Manly appearing. I wear them in the hospital for multiple hours and they are comfortable.
I have fairly flat arches and need support and Keen shoes usually have that and these are no different. Have had then for several weeks now and still like them.
Saucony Ride 14
Promising Review:
These shoes are extremely comfortable and extreme Well made. I will be ordering another pair in a different color.
– kenz
New Balance Men Fresh Foam 860v11
Rating:
- 4.5 Stars
- 1,145 Reviews
Promising Review:
Heavy use over the past 3 months, and it is holding up well, Comfortable fit. Does well with my foot pronation. Would buy again.
– JRS
Nike Men’s Air Monarch IV Cross Trainer
Promising Review:
These are the most comfortable shoes I have ever worn. I have had severe plantar fasciitis for years…
After wearing them at work every day for about three months, my pain starting improving. After six months I had no symptoms or pain.
– R. Jones
Snibbs Spacecloud Work Sneaker
Promising Review:
I’m on my feet All day as I work for FedEx. The shoes are amazing, super comfortable and water proof.
These are hands down the best work shoes I have ever purchased.
– Jose
The Recap ↓
Summary
While these are technically athletic shoes designed for runners, they boast a bevy of shoe features and advanced technology that make them perfect for nurses, including a 3D-printed breathable mesh upper, cushioned insoles and excellent shock absorption.
Banner image: Ljupco Smokovski / Shutterstock
