By Sarah Garone, NDTR, CNC

As a regular runner and frequent traveler, I know how crucial comfortable footwear is. But no one depends on it more than nurses. These healthcare heroes spend hours on their feet, walking hospital hallways, assisting patients, and tackling back-to-back shifts. It’s physically demanding work that makes supportive, durable shoes an absolute essential. Finding the best shoes for nurses is crucial, not just for those working 12-hour shifts, but for anyone who spends long days on their feet.

To uncover the true standouts, I tapped two nurses to test top-rated shoes during actual hospital shifts. Over dozens of long days and thousands of steps, they rated each pair for fit, comfort, cushioning, support, stability, and overall value. I also consulted two podiatrists to find out which pairs they recommend to their patients for standing all day. Based on all their insights, I rounded up the three best shoes for nurses that truly go the distance — whether you’re caring for patients or just need ultra-supportive sneakers for long days on your feet.

BEST OVERALL

Hoka Bondi 9

Why We Love It

- 21 color options

- Breathable knit mesh upper

- Springy cushioning

It’s Worth Noting

- May get dirty quickly

Sizes: Women’s 4–12 | Weight: 10 ounces | Upper Material: Knit mesh | Arch Support Level: High

ICU nurse Jamie, who averages about 15,000 steps per 12-hour shift, calls the Hoka Bondi 9 Shoes a total game-changer. With flat feet, she’s used to ending her shifts with sore arches and tired knees, but not anymore. The plush, springy cushioning keeps her comfortable from the first patient round to the last charting session, while the stable midsole helps reduce impact on hard hospital floors. After 13 hours on her feet, Jamie says her legs still feel fresh — a rare feat in nursing shoes.

Another standout feature is the breathable knit mesh upper, which keeps her feet cool even during busy summer shifts. Jamie also loves that these come in 21 color options, letting her swap styles from shift to street. Her only note? The light cloth exterior can scuff or show dirt quickly. But for the comfort payoff, she says it’s more than worth the extra care. It’s no wonder this Hoka is one of the best shoes for nurses (and anyone who spends their day on their feet).

Jamie’s Overall Score: 5 – Perfect!

Buy it on Amazon $124.95

Also available in men's sizes

BEST FOR STABILITY

Asics Gel-Nimbus 27

Why We Love It

- Wide, supportive base for stability

- Good impact absorption

- True-to-size fit

It’s Worth Noting

- Not as breathable as some others

Sizes: Women’s 5–13 | Weight: 9.3 ounces | Upper Material: Jacquard mesh | Arch Support Level: Moderate

For nurses tackling physically demanding shifts — think pushing wheelchairs, lifting patients, and navigating slick hallways — a stable shoe is a must. PACU nurse Sheila, who’s on her feet for about 10 hours per shift, says the Asics Gel Nimbus 27 Shoe gives her the solid footing she needs to move confidently all day. Its wide, supportive base and impact-absorbing midsole help steady every step, even when she’s carrying extra weight or turning quickly on hospital floors.

That said, Sheila notes that these aren't quite as breathable as lighter, knit models. After long shifts, her feet can feel a bit warm, and she says the thicker sole adds a touch of bulk. Still, for cooler months or anyone who prioritizes stability and shock absorption over airy design, this pair delivers comfort shift after shift. It’s one of the best shoes for nurses who need serious support under pressure.

Buy it on Amazon $124.95

Also available in men's sizes

Sheila’s Overall Score: 4

BEST FOR COMFORT

Brooks Ghost Max 2

Why We Love It

- Lightweight feel

- Soft, comfy cushioning

- Excellent breathability

It’s Worth Noting

- Not a lot of traction

Sizes : Women’s 5–12 | Weight: 9.7 ounces | Upper Material : Mesh| Arch Support Level : Moderate

Brooks is a go-to brand among nurses, and Sheila says it’s easy to see why. During her 10-hour shifts averaging 10,000 steps, the Brooks Ghost Max 2 Shoe was a total BFF to her flat feet. With its lightweight design, soft foam sole, and breathable mesh upper, she says these sneakers deliver the kind of cloud-like comfort that makes long days feel surprisingly doable — especially compared to some pairs that she says, “feel like cinder blocks on your feet.”

Still, Sheila had a few notes. This pair doesn't offer the most traction, which could be tricky in environments prone to spills or slick spots. She also found durability to be just okay after one mishap: “My foot got caught on the bottom of a closing door and a little chunk of the foam came out,” she says. Even so, for nurses (or anyone) who prioritize lightweight comfort above all else, these earn high marks as one of the best shoes for nurses who want cushion without the clunk.

Buy it on Amazon $149.82

Also available in men's sizes

Sheila’s Overall Score: 4

Other Podiatrist-Recommended Shoes for Nurses

Brooks Running Shoes

Buy it on Amazon $130.00

Also available in men's sizes

New Balance 990v6 (Unisex)

Buy it on Amazon $199.95

New Balance Unisex Oxford

Buy it on Amazon $119.99

Asics Gel-Venture 10

Buy it on Amazon $79.99

Also available in men's sizes

Brooks Adrenaline GTS 24

Buy it on Amazon $89.95

Also available in men's sizes

Hoka Gaviota 5

Buy it on Amazon $164.90

Also available in men's sizes

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