10 Best Waterproof Nursing Shoes To Keep Your Feet Pain-Free
Come rain or shine, brave the physical challenges of the day with these comfy footwear.
Expertise: Podiatry
Experience: 7 years
Dr. Jamila Butcher specializes in podiatric medicine and surgery. She has seven years of experience and is an associate of the American College of Foot and Ankle Surgeons and a member of the American Podiatric Medical Association. Dr. Butc... more
Expertise: Makeup & Fashion
Experience: 3 years
The day Priyam learned that having strong opinions about everyday products can be a full-fledged writing career was the greatest day of her life. Partially driven by a passion for everything timeless,... more
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Nursing is a challenging profession for obvious reasons. One of the biggest challenges is standing for long hours on slippery floors to get different tasks done. That’s why the best waterproof nursing shoes are a blessing. Long shifts put a lot of stress on your legs and feet, and therefore, they need some extra care. The waterproof nursing shoes can keep your feet comfortable and prevent them from getting fatigued.
Nursing shoes are specially designed with extra cushioning that ensures optimum arch support and the proper amount of breathability. And not just for nurses, these footwear are ideal for chefs or any professional whose regular work includes standing and walking around. Since these shoes are waterproof, they allow you the freedom to work on messy surfaces without any distractions and worries. They are also a great footwear choice for rainy seasons and wet regions. Basic socks can get soggy and wet easily, so why settle for them when you can have a more functional alternative? The durable insoles and anti-skid features of the waterproof running shoes mentioned in our list can keep you dry and comfy all day long. Scroll down to grab them!
In This Article
10 Best Waterproof Nursing Shoes To Keep Your Feet Relaxed
1. Best Well-Ventilated:Sticky Pro Nursing Shoes
Most healthcare professionals swear by these incredibly chic and comfy shoes for more reasons than one. Made with a waterproof material, they are suitable for any conditions involving water or other liquid spills, which aren’t exactly out of place when you work in a hospital or clinic. With anti-slip outsoles, the shoes keep your feet protected on smooth surfaces. Being lightweight, the pair actually makes standing, walking, and even running indoors much more comfortable while never failing you in terms of arch support. Induced with a shock absorber system, these are an excellent way to reduce the impact of continuous movement on your feet. Dr. Jamila Butcher, specialist in podiatric medicine and surgery says, “Shoes that are waterproof and have anti-slip outsoles are particularly important in healthcare settings, where spills and wet floors are common. Slip-resistant shoes can help prevent slips and falls, which are a leading cause of workplace injuries.”
Pros
- Well-ventilated
- Keeps feet dry
- Arch supporting insoles
- Enough room for wide feet
- Available in 18 colors
Cons
- Slightly less cushioned
Quick Tip2. Best Multifunctional:DKSUKO Women’s Rain Boots
We cannot recommend this enough for professionals who are also passionate about gardening. These waterproof shoes are crafted with a non-latex, vegan-friendly material that keeps your feet dry and comfy all day long. Since they are so difficult to get dirty and easy to clean, you can slip them when it’s pouring out and go about your day like nothing is amiss. You can also wear them like house slippers, for yoga, or to go swimming. The superior grip of the rubber outsole keeps you safe from unexpectedly slipping and hurting yourself when you are at work or ankle-deep in silt. The shoes are also very lightweight, which makes them a go-to for travel.
Pros
- Fashionable
- Multi-functional
- Supports foot arch
- Made of vulcanized natural rubber
- Available in 12 colors
Cons
- Some might find the insoles a little thin.
3. Best Slip-Resistant:OWANVION Oil Resistant Nursing Shoes
When searching for comfortable shoes that you can use at the hospital or in the kitchen, bathroom, and anywhere else on a daily basis, look no further than these lightweight nursing shoes. They come with non-slip rubber soles professionally designed to prevent skidding and keep your feet secure during those inevitable 12-hour shifts. Featuring high arch support, they take the pressure off your heels and back, evenly distributing it across the legs. The shoes are made from EVA materials, known for resisting water oil with efficiency. There’s an enclosed toe cap to provide extra protection against soreness when you’re on your feet for what seems like an endless day.
Pros
- Easy to clean
- Unisex design
- Extra-soft heels
- Elastic insole
- Slip-resistant shoes
- Holes for proper ventilation
Cons
- Insoles might not be soft enough for some people
Pro Tip4. Best Quick-Drying Material:FULORIS Nurse Platform Shoes
If sturdy and functional is your kind of aesthetic, these are the shoes for you. It is great for people with wider feet as it has a wider toebox than most shoes. A round toe box can also reduce pressure on the toes. The super-light EVA material makes them flexible and especially comfortable for all-day wear. They have a liquid-resistant body that acts like a shield against grime and grease, while the removable insoles make them easy to wash after extended, sweat-filled periods. Keeping your feet healthy, happy, and safe are the rubber outsoles that control your gait and prevent accidental slips. With a unique shallow mouth design that promotes a secure fit, these shoes are easy to wear and easier to take off.
Pros
- High elasticity
- Wide head for flexibility
- Quick-drying material
- Massage granules for extra comfort
- Available in 5 colors
Cons
- Could use some extra padding
5. Best Grip:ZYEN Women’s Nursing Loafers
Treat your feet to some much-needed zen with these ZYEN loafers, created with the purpose of keeping your feet clean, comfortable, and more importantly, relaxed. The upper is made out of a breathable material that allows air to pass through quite freely and cools your skin. Air cushions and latex constitute the insoles, relieving soreness and making it easier on your feet to stand all day long. The fact that they look professional and guard against water and offer enhanced grip are just some of the reasons why teachers, doctors, and medical professionals are obsessed with these shoes.
Pros
- Great grip
- 1-inch heel
- Lightweight
- Provides stability
- Available in black and white
Cons
- Might be slightly narrow for some
6. Best Oil-Proof:AW ANY WELL Unisex Chef Shoes
This one’s for the wide-footed professionals who often find it difficult to shop for shoes that actually, properly fit. The shoes come with a spacious toe box to accommodate larger sizes as well as inflamed feet, which is a natural consequence of walking around for long periods of time. The insoles are so soft and durable that you won’t even mind spending most of your day wearing these. They may feel light because of the EVA foam body, but the support and cushioning they offer is quite dense. An expertly contoured arch gives you a secure and ergonomic fit, while the rubber soles keep friction at bay and prevent skidding.
Pros
- Oil-proof
- Certified comfort
- Non-slip design
- Completely washable
Cons
- The rubber is slightly thin.
7. Best Ultra-Light:ZOVE Nursing Shoes
Looking for a long-term solution for pain and soreness in the feet? These nursing shoes might be exactly what you need. They have so much insole cushioning that you’ll finally know what it feels like to walk on clouds. The outsole is extremely lightweight, so you won’t be dragging your feet near the end of the shift but walking with the same confidence you always do. Sliding in as effortlessly as a pair of slippers, the shoes will keep you steady on your feet by gripping every surface and maintaining your stride. In addition to being waterproof, they come with an upper that’s flexible and quickly bounces back from constant use.
Pros
- Ultra-light
- Cushioned footbed
- Slip-resistant PU sole
- High rebound insole
- Shockproof design
- Available in 2 colors
Cons
- Runs slightly small
Pro Tip8. Best With Anti-Slip Stripes:JSWEI Black Garden Shoes
When you are too exhausted to move your feet after pulling a double shift the previous day, this pair from JSWEI will give you the boost to keep going. Crafted with an advanced EVA material, they are lighter than air and known for providing excellent support to the arches, which makes a huge difference to the way your body responds to the shoes. Also, you won’t have to go above and beyond to look polished before heading to work. The upper part inherently resists water, oil, and sand, keeping them clean and sharp for longer. For extra comfort, the insoles are infused with massage granules that feel like you’re walking on pillows — but in a good-for-the-feet way.
Pros
- Lightweight
- Anti-slip stripes
- Advanced EVA construction
- Sweat absorption system
- Available in 3 colors
Cons
- The back part is slightly stiff.
9. Best Unisex:Lozoye Work Clogs
Nurses need shoes that can keep supporting them on tiled floors and slippery surfaces, which is what makes these Lozoye clogs ideal. Their anti-skid abilities keep your feet firmly grounded, so you don’t end up needing to be nursed yourself. In terms of coverage, the solid exterior is totally sealed and prevents dirt or liquids from penetrating while also shielding your feet against bumps and stubs. You can also use them at home in high-spill areas like the kitchen because they’re a breeze to wipe clean. Lightweight, durable, and crafted with premium quality materials, they are an ideal companion for work, home, and travel.
Pros
- Versatile
- Easy to clean
- Unisex design
- Convenient to use
Cons
- The size runs large.
10. Best For Outdoor Activities:earthinglife Nursing Shoes
These earthinglife shoes are dedicated to giving your feet all the TLC they need. Offering a high level of comfort, the EVA sole secures your feet and prevents rubbing or chafing at the bottom. The side vents fulfill the purpose of allowing your feet to breathe even when it’s been a long day and the dogs just won’t stop barking. They have a closed-in heel designed to enhance your arch support, an anti-static heel device that absorbs the impact of shock, and a grip-safe sole to keep you planted to the ground and shield your feet in case something heavy falls on them. They are available in attractive all-white colors, so we recommend buying 2 pairs to rotate so each lasts a long time.
Pros
- Unisex styling
- Machine washable up to 50°
- Minimizes stress on feet
- Ideal for outdoor activities
- Protects against liquids
Cons
- Slightly bigger in size
So, these are the top brands offering the best waterproof nursing shoes of 2023. To make the right choice for your needs, you need to know all the factors that make a difference. Allow our buying guide below to help you out.
How To Choose The Right Waterproof Nursing Shoes
- Outsoles
If you work at a hospital or kitchen, the floors can be really slippery. Not to be hyperbolic but the right outsole can actually save your life. Choose rubber-soled shoes that have non-slip pads to prevent accidental skidding and maintain control over every stride.
- Support or insoles
A good pair of nursing shoes should have proper arch support that keeps your feet flat. Padded insoles add a cushiony feel to the shoe, thus providing a layer of comfort and enhancing your ability to endure longer walking duties. With the right cushion, you can improve your posture and reduce the impact on your muscles.
- Material
Invest in nursing shoes that are made of rubber or water-resistant material. Such shoes have a longer shelf life and aren’t vulnerable to damage from liquids like oil and water. Also, make sure you opt for fabrics that give your feet some breathing room, especially if you tend to run a little hot.
- Shape and design
Speaking of breathing room, go for shoes with a spacious toe box that accommodates wide or swollen feet. You can tell it’s the right size when your toes don’t rub against the insides of your shoe. Also, opt for shoes with stretchy fabrics that adjust to the most minuscule changes in foot size because your feet are likely to be inflamed after a long day of standing.
The nursing profession demands long hours of standing, walking, and running around throughout the work duration. It may cause foot pain. To stand for long hours and perform your duties, you’ll have to invest in waterproof nursing shoes to keep your feet pain-free. These nursing shoes have an extra cushion to support your arches to prevent them from straining your knees. These footwears are a great choice for the wet and rainy season. In addition, the footwear is easy to clean, lightweight, and has a no-slip grip. However, some shoes might be narrow at the toes. Measure your feet size before choosing one to avoid fitting issues. Consider factors like material, outsole, size, shape, and design before investing in these shoes.
Why Trust Stylecraze
Priyam Gupta, the author of this article, is a fashion enthusiast who likes to explore comfortable and trendy styles. She understands the importance of a good quality nursing shoe that can keep the feet at comfort all day long and prevent pain. She has curated this list of the best waterproof nursing shoes after conducting extensive research. She considered factors like quality, comfort, cushioning, and material to select the shoes for the list.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do nurses need special shoes?
Yes. Clogs are special shoes worn by nurses as they are backless. These shoes are easy to wear and remove, but for people with high-arch, these shoes might create stress on the arches and toes. For nurses w/high arches possible suggestion of Oofos
Why do nurses wear Crocs?
Nurses wear crocs while standing for a long duration as they are comfortable. They are made of a footbed material that provides a massage-like experience and good arch support to prevent heel pain.
How often should nurses change their shoes?
It is better to replace the nursing shoes every six to eight months to overcome structural break-down and wearing of the sole that contributes to foot pain.
Why do nurses wear clogs?
Nurses often choose clogs as they are simple to wear and offer support while standing for an extended period. In addition, they help improve posture and prevent knee and arch pain.
What shoes do you wear in nursing school?
Nurses choose different styles of shoes – Dansko, Birkenstock, and hard-shell clogs. These closed-toe shoes are comfortable to wear and provide arch support to the feet.
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