13 Comfortable Server (Waitress) Shoes, As Per A Physiotherapist (2024)
Comfortable shoes for servers are a must-have to avoid mishaps and achieve better support.
Lalitha Bhowani-McsorleyMScPT Physiotherapist
Lalitha is an extremely dedicated and passionate physiotherapist with over 30 years of experience, specializing in the treatment of musculoskeletal injuries. She strives to provide the highest quality care using a combination of manual ther... more
shreya vishwanathanMSc
Experience: 4 yearsShreya is a commerce writer who is passionate about reviewing products related to fitness, health, and home. She holds a master’s degree in clinical psychology from Shree Guru Gobind Singh Tricentenar... more
medha debIntegrated MA
Experience: 5 yearsMedha Deb is a commerce editor with a master's degree in applied linguistics from the University of Hyderabad, which has allowed her to develop a deep understanding of language and its application in ... more
aditi naskarMA (English Literature), Diploma In Health & Wellness
Experience: 5 yearsAditi Naskar has a postgraduate degree in English literature from Presidency University, Kolkata, a bachelor’s degree in education from WBUTTEPA, Kolkata, and a diploma in health and wellness. She is ... more
Image: Shutterstock
When you are expected to be on your feet all the time serving your customers, you need a pair of reliable and comfortable shoes. You would not want any mishap to occur during your working hours. Apart from serving, waiters and waitresses need the best server shoes that look stylish when paired with their plain uniforms and give them the freedom to be carefree. These shoes can enhance the look, provide the right amount of support to your feet, and stay durable. The pair you pick should also offer better arch support along with great flexibility. In this article, we have listed the 13 best server shoes out there and what you need to consider before buying them. Let us have a look at some of our best picks.
In This Article
What Should You Consider When Shopping For Server/Waitress Shoes?
If you want to prevent stumbling, injuries or foot aches and such common problems, here are some essential things you need to keep in mind while shopping for the best waitress shoes.
- Comfort
Servers spend most of their day standing and walking. Thus, comfort is the most important feature to be considered. If you have wide feet, choose shoes that have room for your toes and are not too tight. Check the thickness, cushioning, breathability, leather quality, etc. Bend the shoe and check if it does not bend too much in the slimmest area.
- Grip
If the shoes do not offer a good grip, you can stumble or fall. Therefore, choose shoes with high-quality insoles and cushioning that offer a better grip.
- Protection
It would be best if you got shoes that offer protection from slipping on oily surfaces, grease, or water, and electrical hazards. If you are exposed to such risks, care must be taken to choose appropriate shoes that protect from all these factors.
- Easy to clean
Shoes are made from genuine leather, mesh, synthetic, and other fabrics. If you want to save time and money, choose leather shoes as they offer easy cleaning. Shoes made using synthetics and leather are easy to clean with a single swipe.
- Quality materials
There is a wide variety of options available like leather, rubber, and canvas shoes. Choose the material as per the nature of the work you do, comfort, and your skin and foot type. If you do not consider these factors, you will end up getting blisters, foot ache, and even affect your gait. Pick shoes that do not crowd your feet and offer enough space.
Now that we know this, let us take a look at the 13 best server (waitress) shoes in the market.
Top 13 Best Comfortable Server (Waitress) Shoes (2024)
1. Best Lightweight: Skechers Women’s Soft Stride Softie Work Shoes
If you spend long hours serving at a restaurant, you need a shoe that offers comfort, grip, and support. These restaurant work shoes are made from 100% leather and have a breathable lace-up pattern for added comfort. Also, if you are shopping on a budget, these shoes offer excellent value for money. Available in black color, these cushioned shoes for servers are just the right shoes for women looking for a lightweight, comfortable, and trendy option. Reviews on Amazon confirm that they are also slip-resistsnt, ideal for hustling around all day!
Pros
- Lightweight
- Ergonomic design
- Anti-slip shoes with cushioning
- Synthetic sole
Cons
- Cannot be cleaned easily
- Dirt sticks to the bottom of the shoe easily
"These shoes stand out for their comfort and slip-resistant abilities. Though the firm leather can take time to soften, the shoes have provided relief during long shifts on hard floors. I love their sturdy construction, making them a durable option."
Pro Tip2. Best Medicare Approved: New Balance Women’s 626 V2 industrial shoe
The New Balance Women’s Industrial Shoe is one of the best slip and oil resistant shoes for servers. It is available in two colors, black and gray and is the best for servers as it can withstand your long hours of shift. It is made of 100% pure leather which makes them comfortable yet solid to wear. The rubber outsole is non-marking with a compression molded midsole. The ABZORB cushioning foam, phantom lining construction and a supportive leather upper makes the shoe most comfortable to wear all day long, making it one of the best anti-fatigue shoes for servers. Overall, they help you focus on doing your job well while distracting you from foot exhaustion.
Pros
- Slip and oil resistant
- Medicare approved
- Long lasting
- Excellent ankle support
- Imported
- Stable
Cons
- None
"This pair of sneakers provides me with adept arch support and I love the slip-resistant soles. They are comfortable for prolonged wear and are flexible for both indoor and outdoor use. Although the size runs small, the compressive midsoles compensate for it."
Pro Tip3. Best Arch Support: Skechers For Work Women’s Squad SR Food Service Shoe
If you have not yet found your perfect work shoe, we recommend trying these professional shoes for servers. These shoes feature a lace-up design that provides comfort and enough space for toes and feet. These are made from synthetic material and also feature a synthetic sole. These shoes are great for all-day wear and have a low top arch to keep your feet comfortable even if you are wearing one size larger. These anti-slip work shoes for servers keep the feet dry and are great value for money!
Pros
- Slip-resistant
- Good arch support
- Features a breathable lace-up pattern
- Works well with inserts
- Highly comfortable and durable
Cons
- Might get stained easily
"This pair is ideal as an everyday work wear. I love that they offer optimal arch support and have enough room for my thick socks. They cushion my feet and offer slip-resistant performance. Besides, they provide good traction."
Pro Tip4. Best Comfort: Skechers Work Footwear Women’s Relaxed Fit Slip With Memory Foam
When you are investing a substantial amount of money for buying a great pair of shoes that lasts long, make sure you have a look at these foot health game changer shoes- Relaxed Fit Work Shoes from Skechers. The wide-width shoes for servers are designed to offer a comfortable and roomy fit and slip-resistant outsoles so you can work in wet and damp conditions. These lightweight shoes for servers are tested for protection against electrical hazards and also for compression and impact. According to various reviewers’ experience, the memory foam padding add much to the comfort and keep discomfort at bay.
Pros
- Lightweight and comfortable
- Prevents slips and stumbles
- Great value for money
Cons
- Might run a bit large
"These shoes provide adept comfort to my feet during my long shifts. Although they showed some visible signs of wear after 9 months of use, they have performed well overall. They feature grippy soles that have saved me from tripping many times. I also love that they fit me like a glove."
Why We Think It's Worth Buying
More than 1,776 Amazon users have vouched for this amazing product.
5. Best Water-Resistant: Avia Women’s Avi-Union Ii Food Service Shoe
If the level of comfort and flexibility are the two most important things for you, then these shoes are the ones you must get your hands on! They are designed with synthetic leather and memory foam sock liner to offer endless comfort. These shoes have rubber soles and are also stain and water-resistant. The rubber tread patterns offer an enhanced grip and make it oil and slip-resistant. These shoes remain true to their purpose, providing much-needed support and relief from foot pain symptoms throughout the day. “They have an arch support feature which provides cushioning around the metatarsal joints, helping to reduce strain on the feet while also aiding in the prevention of common foot injuries such as plantar fasciitis,” explains Lalitha Bhowani-Mcsorley, an expert in Musculoskeletal & Vestibular Injuries.
Pros
- Rubber soles
- Water and stain-resistant design
- Rubber tread pattern for augmented grip and support
- Goes with different work uniforms
Cons
- Runs one size larger
"They cater well to my work environments and help me get a secure footing. This lightweight pair is ideal for my longer shifts due to their cushioned memory foam that provides support. I love that they are crafted with stain-resistant uppers which never get overly dirty."
Why We Think It's Worth Buying
With over 2,540 Amazon acclaimed reviews, this product is sure to find a place in everyone’s shopping bag.
6. Best Breathable: KEEN Utility Women’s PTC Oxford Work Shoe
Professional-looking, breathable, and true to size, these are the qualities that describe this pair of work shoes. These shoes are the perfect footwear for nurses and food servers. Made using 100% breathable leather, these shoes are slip and oil resistant. They have a lace-up pattern and are easy to wear and remove. The best part is that these lace-up work sneakers feature recycled PU, cork, and memory foam to offer endless comfort and support to your feet.
Pros
- Cushioned footbed for better support
- Memory foam support
- Easy to clean and wipe
- Oil and slip-resistant
- Meets ASTM F1667-96 Mark II non-slip standards
Cons
- Slightly expensive
"These shoes protect me from skidding on tricky surfaces. The compressive midsoles provide a soft base to my feet. However, the fit runs small, so sizing up is important. I love their stain-resistant uppers that require minimal maintenance."
7. Best For All-Day Wear: Avia Women’s Avi-Focus Food Service Shoe
Finding the ideal shoes for work is not easy, but when you have a shoe that looks stylish, is comfortable and safe, you do not have to think twice. These server footwear with a rubber sole and lace-up pattern is an excellent option if you are spending long hours on your feet at work and wish to escape foot exhaustion. These shoes are designed with a memory foam sock liner that offers an excellent grip.
Pros
- Oil and stain-resistant
- Memory foam cushioning for support
- Provides room for toes
- Durable
Cons
- Runs a size bigger
"The non-slip quality of these shoes has made me wear them daily. The memory foam relieves excess pressure on my toes and adjusts to the curvature of my feet. The EVA midsoles absorb shocks and promote comfortable wear."
Why We Think It's Worth Buying
More than 1,505 rave reviews on Amazon prove why we are so in awe of this product.
8. Best Cushioning: MOZO Women’s Maven Food Service Shoe
If you prefer sneakers or sport shoes, these canvas all-black shoes for servers are a great option. Not only do you get these at a great price, but you also get to choose from three different colors. These bestselling shoes are comfortable to wear owing to the lace-up design and elastic goring that makes it easy to slip them on. The shoes consist of gel insoles for a better fit and cushioning. The synthetic sole and canvas outer sole make it slip-resistant and durable.
Pros
- Full-grain leather design
- Water and slip-resistant design
- Soft cushioning offered by gel insoles
Cons
- Might offer a tight fit for wide feet
"These shoes are comfortable and functional. They look like low-top skate shoes but have non-slip qualities. Although they initially felt stiff, they soon adapted to my feet structure and felt soft. I love that the material is water-resistant and breathable, preventing sweat buildup and resultant odor. Overall, these are a solid option."
9. Best Stain-Resistant: Skechers Work Footwear Women’s Gozard Slip Resistant Shoe
These shoes from Skechers are great for work as they are breathable and stylish shoes for servers (waitresses) and nurses. This high-quality and glossy pair of shoes features a mesh covering for breathability, and memory foam that offers cushioning and support. It is also water and stain-resistant. These breathable shoes for servers are designed for all sizes to provide a relaxed fit and relief from foot pain symptoms to wide or narrow feet.
Pros
- Safe and protective shoes
- Slip-resistant shoes
- Designed to provide room for toes
- Comfortable to wear and take-off
Cons
- Comes with a hard sole
"This pair of shoes fits me snugly and cushions my feet. They offer comfort for long durations. I like their non-slip and water-resistant features. Overall, I love these lightweight shoes."
10. Best Durable: Skechers Work Relaxed Fit Nampa-annod Service Shoe
Does the level of comfort top the list of features you look for in work footwear? These shoes from Skechers are highly recommended shoes for servers. These are designed to keep your feet relaxed and well-supported throughout the day. These slip-ons are not bulky and provide your feet the support they need, all day long. Featuring a reliable traction sole that is flexible, these shoes are easy to wear and take off. The Memory Foam insole ensures all-day comfort against pain and sore foot issues.
Pros
- Durable
- Sporty and casual design
- Perfect arch support
Cons
- May not fit wide feet
"I purchased this pair of sketchers for a new job and it has become my favorite. Although the shoes are slightly big for my feet, they offer adequate arch support. Their slip-resistant soles are ideal for my restaurant work. Overall, they are durable and resistant to wear."
11. Best Slip-Resistant: Shoes For Crews Women’s Liberty Slip Resistant Food Service Work Sneaker
These waterproof shoes for servers will offer you a great workday with its relaxed, comfortable,padded fit. If you drop something liquidy on your does, you don’t need to worry about wet footwear. These shoes feature a smooth sole for better balance and arch support. These slip-resistant shoes for servers can be used in humid climates or greasy surfaces and work conditions to prevent you from stumbling or falling. The padded collar and tongue can avoid foot aches or blisters. Plus, these durable shoes for servers can last for years.
Pros
- Designed slip-resistant technology
- Waterproof
- Comfy and durable shoes
- Lightweight and affordable
Cons
- Hard sole
"This pair delivers on its promise. The shoes provide non-slip safety and are sturdy. The fit is snug, especially around my toes. I like that they are slip- and water-resistant. However, they can trap odors, so airing them out is necessary. Overall, they are ideal for those with shorter work periods."
12. Best Leather Shoes: Laforst Womens Leather Nonslip Server Slip On
The Laforst Womens Leather non-slip shoes for servers are made of 100% leather. These lightweight shoes feature memory foam cushion insoles that offer adequate cushioning to your feet and provide shock absorption, and the fabric-lined interior provides grip to your feet. The slip-resistant rubber soles and easy V-vamp slip-on shoes for servers are designed perfectly for easy wearability and ultimate comfort.
Pros
- Comfortable
- Easy slip-on design
- Adequate cushioning
- Lightweight
- Slip-resistant
Cons
- Wears out quickly
- Sharp edges might dig into your skin
"I love the slip-on design of these shoes. They are lightweight and ideal for extended wear and pair well with most of my office outfits. I would have loved a bit more cushioning but overall the pair is nice and fitting."
13. Best Moisture-Wicking: Dr. Scholl’s Women’s Inhale Slip Resistant Sneaker
Shoes from Dr. Scholl’s are known to be very comfortable and stylish. Especially if you are a sneaker person, these lace-up shoes for servers will keep you working hassle-free all day long. These shoes come with advanced memory foam insoles for better grip and support, while the insole channels promote breathability to keep the feet cool and comfortable. They also have a moisture-wicking breathable lining, and the antimicrobial sock prevents foul odor. “They ensure comfort, stability, and resilience. These arch support shoes for servers feature plush cushioning that helps reduce excessive strain on the feet and the risk of developing foot injuries such as plantar fasciitis. The breathable mesh material keeps the shoes light and cool,” says Lalitha Bhowani-Mcsorley, an expert in Musculoskeletal & Vestibular Injuries.
Pros
- Affordable
- Moisture-wicking lining prevents smell and sweat
- Cushioned sneakers for better grip
- Comes with a moisture-wicking lining
Cons
- Sizes run small
- Hard insoles
"This pair holds well and provides enhanced support to my feet. I like their stylish look and that they come with a padded collar. They provide adept cushioning to my feet and reduce foot strain. Even when I walk on uneven terrain, the shoes absorb shocks and prevent harsh impacts."
Some of the common problems which waitresses or servers face when walking are stumbling, slipping, foot ache, and even injuries. To ensure that you stay comfortable, invest in a pair of reliable shoes to prevent any injuries. Here are a few other things to keep in mind while picking out server shoes.
How To Choose The Best Comfortable Server Shoes
1. Comfort
The level of comfort is one of the most important things to be considered when choosing a pair of shoes. This is especially true for servers, as they spend most of their day walking or standing. Make sure your toe box has enough room for your feet to wiggle, and if you have wider feet go for models with a wide toe box. Also, look for enough arch support, a soft fabric collar and tongue, and a cushion to reduce the foot pressure or impact.
2. Protection
It is ideal that your shoe offers extra protection from grease, water, oil and even electrical hazards.
- Injury Protection: Other than slip resistance the upper part of your shoe must be hard enough to protect your foot against damage which can be caused by heavy objects or hot elements falling on your foot.
- Water Protection: Walking around in a pair of wet shoes is very uncomfortable. To avoid this discomfort, get a shoe that offers water protection, with a waterproof or water resistant upper.
3. Grip
The grip of your shoes also plays a major role in safety, especially when it comes to the kitchen or the restaurant. Get shoes with high-quality and washable insoles for a better grip and long-term use. Here are a few things you should look for in slip-resistant shoes.
- A soft rubber outsole that ensures that your shoe grips to the floor, thus preventing any mishaps.
- A large thread pattern to get maximum surface contact, for a better grip and reliable traction.
- An interlocked thread pattern to ensure that any moisture or water on the floor is channeled away from your foot.
4. Maintenance
Shoes are made of several materials like leather, PU, rubber, canvas, synthetic, and many combinations of materials. Some synthetic shoes and leather shoes are easy to maintain as they look brand new in just a single swipe.
Now that we have seen the top 13 server shoes this year, let us take a look at some of the things you must avoid if you are buying these shoes.
What To Avoid When Buying Server (Waitress) Shoes
The first thing to keep in mind is not to purchase sandals, ballet flats, boat shoes, or high heels while shopping for work shoes. These shoes do not offer enough protection or comfort for hours and may cause blisters, sore foot, and extreme foot fatigue.
Infographic: Factors To Check While Buying Shoes For Servers
A server’s job keeps them up and about for long hours, navigating through different kinds of people and situations. In such situations, along with comfortable clothes, a good pair of shoes is a must-have. To ensure that they stay comfortable throughout the day, here’s a quick infographic to help make the right decision when it comes to shoes. Check it out! Illustration: StyleCraze Design Team
The Bottom Line
A server’s job demands them to stand for long periods which may lead to foot pain. This makes it crucial for them to own a pair of comfortable shoes that provide ample support and breathability. However, you cannot rely on any regular shoes. And your footwear has to complement your uniform, too. Furthermore, the shoes should offer a good grip to prevent skidding and come with great cushioning so your feet won’t hurt when standing for long shifts. The Skechers Women’s Soft Stride Softie Work Shoes stands out for its all-day comfort, support, and slip-resistance, while the MOZO Women’s Maven Food Service Shoe provides exceptional cushioning and ultimate comfort that last even during extended work hours. And the Shoes For Crews Women’s Liberty Slip Resistant Food Service Work Sneaker ensures safety and stability in slippery work settings. All the shoes mentioned above have been crafted with breathable materials, keep you sweat-free, and their anti-compression insole and anti-slip support prevents any mishaps. However, you should avoid shoes with a hard sole or cheap material.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the proper footwear for food service workers?
Food service workers should invest in closed-toe, comfortable and sturdy shoes. Try the ones that are waterproof and slip-resistant to avoid untimely accidents.
Do servers have to wear non-slip shoes?
In food outlets, workers work with oils, water, and other liquids. It is pretty common to have those spilled on the floor. So, servers must wear non-slip shoes to avoid accidents.
Can servers wear sneakers?
Servers can wear sneakers provided that they have a good grip and the laces are always kept tied. Lightweight sneakers are the best to avoid any discomfort while working.
Can I wear crocs as a server?
Crocs are water-resistant but do not have a good grip. Therefore, it is not recommended to wear crocs as a server.
What qualifies as slip-resistant shoes?
Slip-resistant shoes will have a rubber sole. The bottom of the outsole will have small patterns that create friction against the slippery floor and provide great grip.
What is OSHA-approved footwear?
Footwears must fulfill certain criteria to be OSHA-approved. These criteria include non-skid and oil-resistant soles, leather upper, and impact and compression resistant rating of 75.
Why Trust StyleCraze?
Shreya Vishwanathan is a fitness and health enthusiast who uses her product writing expertise to provide the best suggestions to her audience. She performed considerable research and combed through hundreds of reviews to compile a list of the finest shoes for servers that are both comfortable and sturdy. She also offered a detailed analysis of each product, including its benefits and drawbacks, as well as some do’s and don’ts that may help you make an informed decision.
