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.
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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
Image: Sticky 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 comfortable nursing shoes 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 nursing 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
Image: Dksuko 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. The shoes are also very lightweight, which makes them a go-to for travel.
Pros
- Fashionable
- Better gait control
- Prevents accidental slips
- 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. These prevent the chances of slipping on tiled floors and other slippery surfaces and stay firmly grounded. These also give good coverage and their solid exterior prevents dirt or liquids from penetrating. Featuring high arch support, they take the pressure off your heels and back, evenly distributing it across the legs. The shoes are made from super-light EVA materials, known for resisting water and 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
- Secure fit
- Anti-skid abilities
- Extra-soft heels without bumps and stubs
- 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 Lightweight:Gales Frontline Nurse Shoes
Image: Gales The Gales Frontline Nurse Shoes are designed for men and women at the forefront of the healthcare system. These odor-resistant nursing shoes provide better traction even on wet floors and offer optimum stability to the movements. The shoes are made with patented extra light compound material. The 7mm ortholite insoles provide great comfort and support to the arch. The slip-on design with a tension-flex band secures the shoes snugly to the feet, eliminating the hassle of tying and untying laces constantly. The shoes also have air holes on the sides to ensure uninterrupted airflow. Plus, they are covered with moisture and microbe barrier protection.
Pros
- Slip-resistant outsole
- Great cushioning
- Snug fit
- Easy to put on and off
- Easy air circulation
- Durable
- Fluid-repellent
- Odor-resistant
- Machine-washable
Cons
- Not suitable for wide feet
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 professional nursing 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. These wide-width 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. These durable nursing shoes 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 supportive 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, these stylish nursing shoes come with an upper that’s flexible and especially comfortable and quickly bounces back after use. The best way to maintain these is by regularly wiping clean the high-spill areas.
Pros
- Ultra-light
- Cushioned footbed
- Premium quality materials
- 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, these affordable nursing shoes 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
- Protection against sweat-filled periods
- Available in 3 colors
Cons
- The back part is slightly stiff.
9. Best Easy-To-Clean:Hawkwell Women’s Lightweight Nursing Shoes
Image: Hawkwell The Hawkwell Women’s Lightweight Nursing Shoes feature lightweight EVA soles that provide adequate cushioning and reduce foot fatigue. They have 1 ½ inches of heels that offer a perfect lift to your body. The lace-on closures help you get the right fit. The shoes’ uppers are made of full-grain synthetic leather that looks sleek and feels sturdy and functional. They have removable memory foam footbeds that comfortably hold your feet to go around all day long. The padded collars also offer additional protection to your feet. In addition, they can double up as comfortable sports shoes.
Pros
- Durable upper
- Stain-resistant uppers
- Adjustable lace design
- Slip-resistant
- Neutral arch design
- Padded collar
- Lightweight
- Easy to clean
Cons
- Not suitable for wide feet
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 firmly grounded 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
- Liquid-resistant body
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 solid exterior like rubber or water-resistant material to ensure they have better coverage and protection from liquids like oil and water. Such shoes have a longer shelf life and are less vulnerable to damage. 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.
Infographic: Tips To Choose The Best Nursing Shoes
For nurses who are always on her feet, a bad pair of shoes can be their worst enemy. Long work hours and running around the corridors can be too hectic. This is where good-quality nursing shoes come in. They can help alleviate foot issues, release stress, and take care of the joints and knees. Check out the infographic below for tips to find good nursing shoes that can ensure comfort and safety at work.
Illustration: StyleCraze Design Team
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The Bottom Line
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. The Sticky Pro Nursing Shoes are the best pick for general nursing duty due to slip resistance and comfort. At the same time, those working in emergency or operating rooms with frequent liquid spills should go for the DKSUKO Women’s Rain Boots due to its waterproof feature. However, if you are looking for an oil and slip resistance feature, try the OWANVION Oil Resistant Nursing Shoes. 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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