10 Best Shoes for Nurses 2026 in the United States

The New Balance Women's Fresh Foam Arishi V4 Running Shoe is a solid choice for nurses who spend long hours on their feet. One of its biggest strengths is the Fresh Foam midsole, which provides excellent cushioning and support, helping to reduce fatigue during extended shifts. The lightweight design adds to the comfort, making it easier to move around throughout the day. The shoe also features a breathable mesh upper, which promotes airflow and helps keep feet cool, a significant plus for those in fast-paced environments.

Additionally, the rubber outsole is durable and offers slip resistance, an essential trait for nurses who may encounter various floor surfaces, reducing the risk of slips and falls. The no-sew overlays contribute to a sleek fit, providing a modern look along with a comfortable feel. Furthermore, cleaning these shoes is a breeze since they are machine washable, which is a convenient feature for busy healthcare professionals.

There are some considerations to keep in mind. While the shoe excels in comfort and support, some users may find that the fit runs a bit narrow, which could be a drawback for those with wider feet. Additionally, while the cushioning is great for comfort, it might not offer enough stability or rigid support for individuals who need extra arch support, potentially making long-term wear less ideal for everyone.

The Brooks Women’s Revel 8 is designed primarily as a running and walking shoe, offering good comfort and moderate cushioning through its DNA Loft v2 foam, which adapts to your stride and impact. Its lightweight design (around 7.75 ounces) and breathable mesh upper help keep feet cool during extended wear, a plus for nurses on long shifts. The lace-up closure provides a secure fit, though it lacks additional adjustability features like straps or velcro.

Durability is solid thanks to the RoadTack rubber outsole, which also delivers decent traction; however, this outsole is optimized for road running rather than hospital floors, so slip resistance on wet or oily surfaces common in medical environments might not be as reliable as specialized nursing shoes. The shoe is low-top and fits true to size, giving a comfortable feel without excessive bulk, but it is not water resistant and the mesh upper may require careful cleaning after spills or stains. While it has the APMA Seal of Acceptance, indicating good foot health support, it does not offer extra arch or ankle support specifically tailored for the long hours and standing demands nurses face.

The Revel 8 is well suited for nurses who prioritize lightweight, breathable comfort and moderate cushioning. However, those needing enhanced slip resistance or more robust support might want to consider shoes designed explicitly for healthcare settings.

The NORTIV 8 Women's Walking Shoes are a solid choice for nurses who spend long hours on their feet and need comfortable, supportive footwear. Thanks to a thick EVA midsole, these shoes offer excellent cushioning that helps absorb impact and reduce stress on your joints during long shifts or daily walks. The lightweight mesh upper promotes breathability, keeping your feet cool and dry, which is a big plus in busy, often warm hospital environments.

They also provide good slip resistance with a rubber outsole designed to grip wet or slippery floors, which is essential for safety in a healthcare setting. The lace-up design ensures a secure fit, and the shoe is light enough to prevent fatigue. The stylish look and reflective strips add some visibility for early or late shifts but aren't critical for hospital use.

These shoes best suit nurses who prioritize comfort, breathability, and slip resistance over rugged durability or easy cleaning. If ease of wiping down shoes is a top concern, another option might fit better.