Anyone who’s ever worn uncomfortable shoes knows that the pain of wearing them goes far beyond the feet. The wrong shoes can result in leg and back pain, especially among those who work on their feet for a living.
People in the medical field should pay special attention to their shoes due to the long hours and physical demands of their jobs. There are many factors that contribute to an ideal work shoe.
However, people’s feet are unique and different, and there is no one perfect shoe for everyone. If you’re a nurse or medical student in the market for a new shoe, here are three of the best on the market.
Dansko Women’s Professional Black Box Clog

The Dansko brand is beloved among nurses and medical professionals for their comfort and long-lasting quality. A shoe like the Dansko Men’s Professional Oiled Leather Clog has a thick, sturdy sole to withstand hours of standing and provide shock absorption.
The leather upper allows for easy cleanup, and its internal frame design gives the wearer plenty of arch support. Dansko shoes can be on the pricey side, with most of them costing at least $100, but many satisfied customers have reported that they’re well-worth the cost.
With almost 20 years in the business, Dansko shoes are designed to feel good and last forever.
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Crocs Unisex-Adult Men’s and Women’s on The Clock Clog

Most people may recognize the name of this popular mall brand, but Crocs offers more than just casual water shoes. They also manufacture a line of heavy-duty work shoes meant for restaurant chefs, baristas, and nurses.
The Crocs On-the-clock Slip-Resistant Work Shoe features a thick, durable heel, padded insole, and relaxed fit that tapers snugly around the heel for stability and comfort.
This shoe is constructed from 100% man-made rubber, allowing it to withstand messy workplaces. At a little over $25, they also have the additional benefit of being very affordable compared to other shoes on the market.
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Birkenstock womens Boston Super Grip Leather

This classic brand has graduated beyond the cork-bottomed sandals that made them famous. The Birkenstock Professional Unisex Profi Birki Slip Resistant Work Shoe is outfitted with a 1.5” heel and high arch support in the removable insole.
The material is 100% polyurethane, which is both waterproof and durable. This shoe also has the unique feature of being dishwasher-friendly (without the insole). Not only are they waterproof and sanitary, they’re extremely easy to clean.
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Dansko Women’s Wide Pro XP Black Box Clog

People in the medical field should first think about the function of their job before purchasing a shoe to complement it. Someone who mostly stands throughout the day can benefit from a thick sole, but the extra weight can be cumbersome for those who spend a lot of time walking.
Comfort is important for those long working hours, and the easiest way to pin down a comfortable shoe is to find one that supports the arch, heel, and instep effectively.
Finally, the proper work shoe should be safe and slip-resistant. All three of the above examples include slip-resistant soles for traction and stability.
When people think of nurses and doctors, they often imagine scrubs, stethoscopes, and latex gloves. These are all hallmarks of the medical profession, but one should also remember the importance of a good shoe.
The healthcare field can be hectic and unpredictable, but the right shoe gives you the best foundation for performing your best work.
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