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 Ghost 16 is a lightweight, cushioned running shoe designed primarily for runners but with features that can appeal to nurses needing comfortable footwear for long shifts. Its standout strength is comfort: the soft, nitrogen-infused DNA Loft v3 cushioning provides gentle support and smooth transitions in every step, which is helpful for all-day wear. The breathable engineered mesh upper keeps feet cool, reducing discomfort from sweat. Although it’s a neutral running shoe rather than a specifically designed nurse shoe, it has the APMA Seal of Acceptance and is approved for diabetic foot care, suggesting good overall foot health support. The slip-resistant Roadtack rubber outsole adds durability and better grip, important for hospital floors, though it may not be as specialized as some shoes designed strictly for slip resistance in medical environments. The fit is secured by laces and the refined 3D Fit Print aims to reduce distractions from shoe movement.

At 1.45 pounds, it’s fairly light, reducing fatigue from heavy footwear during long shifts. On the downside, the lace-up closure might be less convenient than slip-ons or Velcro options preferred by some nurses for quick removal and cleaning. Also, the shoe’s white and light colors may show stains more easily, and while the mesh upper offers breathability, it may not be the easiest to wipe clean quickly after spills. This shoe suits nurses who prioritize cushioning and breathability and are comfortable with lace-up shoes, but those needing specialized slip resistance or extremely easy cleaning might want to consider other options.

The Hoka Women's Clifton 10 sneaker is designed with comfort in mind, featuring a soft fabric inner lining and a jacquard knit upper that allows for good breathability, which is great for nurses who spend long hours on their feet. Its lightweight construction, weighing about 3 pounds, helps reduce fatigue, making it a solid choice for extended wear.

The shoe uses an ethylene vinyl acetate sole, known for shock absorption, offering decent support throughout busy shifts. The shoe's fit is generally true to size and snug thanks to the knit upper, but those needing wider widths might want to check for availability. Cleaning should be relatively easy given the knit and fabric materials, though these may absorb stains more than synthetic options.

The Hoka Women's Clifton 10 provides a comfortable, breathable, and lightweight option for nurses who prioritize foot comfort and support, suitable for long hours of wear.