Happy Feet Means a Happy Nurse: What To Look for in the Best Shoes for Work

Those of you who have been or are in the nursing industry understand the importance of quality shoes during any nursing shift. The best shoes for work depend on a variety of factors and can be the difference between a happy nurse and a grumpy nurse, don’t I know it!

The best shoes for work are different for each person and are determined by the comfort and needs of the individual.

Here are the factors to consider when searching for the best shoes for work:

• Proper Fit. The best shoes for work need to be comfortable, this is the obvious one! Definitely try on the shoes before you purchase them and walk around the house for a bit before you take the tags off, to make sure they fit properly.
  
• Provide Proper Arch Support. Foot arches can be flat, regular, or have extra arch. The best shoes for work will provide support so that your arch is not stressed and thus make your feet sore. This could mean getting an insert if there are no shoes that can provide the proper support on their own.
  
• Foot Width. If you have wide or narrow feet, you will need to make sure you look for shoes that have wide and narrow sizing options. The best shoes for work will fit every aspect of your foot, so don’t settle for less.
  
• Company Policies. Be sure to check in with your company’s policies before you begin the hunt for the best shoes for work. There are often color and style requirements that need to be met and you want to be able to use the pair you buy!  

There are so many benefits to finding the best shoes for work! I’ve listed them out for you, in case you didn’t already know:

• Less foot pain.
• Less back pain.
• Better balance.
• Spinal issue prevention.
• Stress and discomfort reduction.

As I mentioned earlier, there is no shoe that is right for everybody, the best shoes for work are different depending on the foot. But here is a list of some of the top brands for you to check out as you begin your search for the best shoes for work: Dansko, Skechers, WorkWear, Dickies, Nurse Mates, New Balance, Algeria, Crocs, Birkenstock. Don’t forget, colleagues are a great resource, so ask around your workplace for hints too!

Finding the best shoes for work might take a little time, but it is so worth it! Be sure to take everything into consideration and, most of all, make sure your feet are as happy as can be!