Ideal Footwear Recommendations for Nurses and Healthcare Workers
During their shifts, nurses spend most of their time on their feet. According to data from NurseJournal, they can walk 6 to 8 km in a single 12-hour shift. With that much distance every day, choosing a good pair of shoes is essential. The right shoes help reduce pressure, ease pain, and protect your feet from injury.
1 - What Are the Best Shoes for Nurses and Healthcare Workers?
In general, shoes for nurses need to be cushioned, supportive, and slip resistant. When choosing your pair, keep these factors in mind:
- Slip resistance: Hospital floors are often very slippery, so grip is extremely important. Look for shoes with a full-contact rubber outsole — the better the traction, the safer you are.
- Cushioning: Well-cushioned shoes help reduce pressure on your feet during long shifts that last many hours.
- Support: Prioritize shoes that support the arch and ankle to keep you stable and reduce soreness.
- Durability: Work shoes need to be sturdy enough for daily use. Leather, nubuck, or strong woven materials are all suitable options.
(Image 1 – Bondi SR – plush cushioning and comfort for long, demanding shifts)
A shoe made for nurses needs to fit just right. Whenever possible, try them on in store to find your true size and the most comfortable feel.
Based on these key criteria, we have selected the HOKA models that work best for nurses, along with a few options you can wear on your days off.
2 - Shoes for Your Shift
(Image 2 – Clifton 10, APMA certified, soft and lightweight for busy hospital environments.)
For nurses and healthcare workers who spend hours on their feet, Clifton 10 delivers soft cushioning and comfort to help you get through demanding shifts. This new version offers an improved, secure fit with a breathable upper and locked-in lacing system, so you feel supported and comfortable all day.
Recognized by the American Podiatric Medical Association (APMA), Clifton 10 is a trusted choice for fast-paced work environments.
(Image 3 – Bondi 9 with plush foam helps reduce foot fatigue for nurses)
Bondi 9 is an ultra-cushioned option with a new premium foam that elevates the experience of HOKA’s legendary Bondi line.
For nurses or healthcare workers who need extra stability, Arahi 8 is a strong recommendation. H-Frame™ technology acts like a stabilizing frame through the midsole, helping each step feel more secure and more comfortable when you are standing for long periods or moving constantly.
If you need even more stability but still want soft comfort, Gaviota 5 is an ideal choice. It features the softest foam in HOKA’s stability lineup, along with a breathable upper and cushioned collar, bringing lasting comfort throughout your entire shift.
3 - Shoes for Your Days Off
When you want to give yourself a full day to relax, HOKA’s slides are a perfect choice. Ora Recovery Slide 3 offers breathable comfort with deep cushioning so your feet can truly “rest.” If you prefer flip-flops, Ora Recovery Flip delivers a smooth, easy stride thanks to MetaRocker™ technology — the gently curved sole promotes a more natural transition and helps reduce foot fatigue.
4 - Comfortable Apparel for Days Off
Don’t forget to give your body time to unwind on your days off. The Essential Hoodie and Essential Jogger set delivers light, easy comfort — perfect for resting at home or stepping out to run a few errands on your day off.
With a job that demands constant standing and movement, you always need shoes that are cushioned and supportive. Now you have the information you need to choose the pair that suits you best. Once comfort is taken care of by HOKA, you can focus on caring for your patients with the same dedication you bring to every shift.
FLY HUMAN FLY.