If you are a nurse who works 8-12 hours a day, it’s highly likely your feet are always tired. When it comes to shoes and healthcare services, you know that you spend a ton of time on your feet.
And by working those long hours, your plantar fascia, which helps the foot absorb shock, becomes damaged with time. Plantar fasciitis is more likely to occur when the plantar fascia is repeatedly torn and stretched.
Planter Fascia helps form the arch of your foot. For your nursing shoe, you want something with good arch support. So, in this case, if you are a nurse who is struggling with plantar fasciitis, we have listed some of the best shoes that will provide stability and cure your foot problem.
In addition, there are important practical things like grip on a wet floor when working in a trauma bay and actual support of your foot, waterproof, and breathability. These are all things that come into play while choosing the best nursing shoes for you.
Also, not to mention how the shoes appear to you and if you like how they look as fashion plays an important part in your everyday life and your shoes matter! So read on to get yourself the best work shoe!
1. New Balance Women’s 608 V5 Cross Trainer
These shoes offer superior cushioning and flex grooves in the sole for added flexibility. This is one of the best shoes for nurses and is available in leather, sides, and different colour combination. This gives the users many options to choose from and makes a new balance the best shoe for nurses with plantar fasciitis.
Ventilation is not a problem with this shoe. Overlays have small perforations for perspiration. The shoe’s design is a traditional secure cord with a padded mesh tongue and a double-density collar.
The bottom of the shoe has a padded midsole and a rubber sole that leaves no marks. This improves both balance and comfort. This is in the hands of nurses with plantar fasciitis.
Traction is another feature that distinguishes the shoe. The rubber sole doesn’t leave marks with flexible groves and chores. A secure fit of the shoe on almost any surface. This sturdy shoe will get a safe, reliable, comfortable shoe that will not bother you.
The inner shaft gives the shoe power and balance, but the shoe’s upper part is partially covered with synthetic layers that protect against damage. In short, this is one of the most comfortable shoes for nurses with pain in the plantar fascia.
Pros
- Stable and smooth ride.
- Upper feels luxurious.
- Smooth transition while speeding changes.
- Versatility
Cons
- The rubber outsole may wear out fast.
- Midsole responsiveness is lacking.
2. Skechers Women’s Summits Sneaker
This is another best shoes for nurses with plantar fasciitis. Those nurses who prefer the comfortable style and fashion will be happy to learn more about these Skechers shoes.
Simultaneously these shoes without lysis provide cushioning, viscoelastic foam, and an excellent rubber sole that could be useful for people with plantar fasciitis.
Although this economic model is made of rubber, it is durable and absorbs shock. If you try this model for the first time, the insole may look a bit stiff. But when you start walking, the shape of the memory foam changes and adapts perfectly to the leg shape.
This feature is ideal for nurses who experience long work periods and pain in plantar fasciitis. Thanks to the flexible rib saw.
These shoes provide good arch support and excellent ventilation. After some changes, you can throw them in the washing machine, and they will look like new.
Although dressing is ideal for busy nurses and elastic bands are more attractive than shoelaces, you can only wear your shoes with restrictions. One thing to keep in mind, these shoes are very narrow and do not widen.
Pros
- Stable and smooth ride.
- Upper feels luxurious.
- Smooth transition while speeding changes.
- Versatility
Cons
- The rubber outsole may wear out fast.
- Midsole responsiveness is lacking.
3. Brooks Men’s Ghost 12 Running Shoe
Many women’s shoes have stiffer shoes that cause foot pain and plantar fasciitis. Finding women’s running shoes with the support and padding you need is much harder. The Ghost model is one of the few that doesn’t find the problem.
The Brooks Ghost is frequently recognized as one of the top sneakers for everything from walking and running to standing, which is essential for an all-day shoe.
The moniker “ghost” refers to how light they are while still managing to provide enough cushioning from heel to toe. Because they are designed for jogging, these shoes will be useful when you need to move quickly.
It has a softer rubber that is strong enough to hold it and flexible enough not to force the foot into a strange position. The arch support has been designed for neutral arc or light relief users. It has a lower arch but a slightly firmer sole.
The sole also has this beautiful design divided in the middle of the heel, which helps to redistribute and absorb the bump to extend around the heel instead of going through it.
Overall the ghost model is another great option for chronic heel pain. This is also one of the best shoes for nurses with plantar fasciitis pain.
Pros
- Plush Heel grip, No Slip.
- Smooth interior fit.
- Neutral, supportive cushioning comfort.
- Outsole traction.
- APMA seal of acceptance.
Cons
- Limited Versatility.
- Lacks of support due to high arches.
- Removal of ‘tounge tied’ loop causes slide.
4. Alegria Debra Women’s Shoes
Spend some extra money on these Alegria shoes, but you get the best sneakers for nurses. These shoes are lightweight and offer excellent comfort with a sole that guarantees good stability.
You can choose different styles and colours and at the same time, get rid of the pain. You already know that sore plantar fascia requires adequate arch support and the possibility of adding orthotics. This is exactly what Alegria Debra proposes.
This shoe is well-made and durable and can last many years. This significantly relieves pain and has extra padding around the heel to avoid slips and blisters. Thick soles provide motion control and stability.
However, you should know that these shoes might expand when you use them roughly, so they can eventually slip off your feet.
Although you can find a lot of colors to choose from, these shoes are a bit dated.
If you are a nurse who likes to wear work shoes with a uniform, keep in mind that Alegria shoes are expensive, and if you wear them in stockings they may be too tight and cause pain.
Pros
- Stability is provided by the flat, non-slip shape.
- Maximum comfort is provided by the cushioning system.
- Your feet won’t sweat thanks to the leather insole with perforations.
- You may slip in orthotic insoles for arch support with removable inserts.
- Durability is increased with an outsole made of durable rubber.
Cons
- Finding the right size can be tricky.
5. Reebok Men’s ZigWild Tr 6 Trail Running Shoe
This shoe combines comfortable and responsive cushioning with exceptional fit and comfort. The elegant appearance of fashion complements all this. Reebok ZigWild is specially developed for the track.
Like most athletic footwear, we discovered that this pair was ideal for nurses’ busy schedules and routines. That doesn’t mean, it doesn’t meet the needs of a nurse.
Due to their outside schedules, they are also quite convenient for flight nurses and NASCAR nurses.
These shoes have built-in memory foam that conforms to your feet, is breathable, and is quite pleasant to wear. These features make one of the best sneakers for nurses and also comfortable shoes for nurses.
The stable memory foam on the shoe’s heel relieves pain and is the best shoe for nurses with plantar fascia arch pain.
The memory foam insole is renowned for providing excellent foot comfort. These insoles are made in such a way that they aid in immediately easing your foot pain. Memory foam insoles are therefore beneficial if you have plantar fasciitis.
The traction of this shoe is excellent thanks to the carbon rubber on the heel. The design is low for greater manoeuvrability while the synthetic and mesh upper provides breathability support and comfort.
These qualities benefit nurses with plantar fasciitis since they reduce any pain you experience after being on your feet all day.
We adore the zigzag outsole as well. The ZigTech midsole is particularly suitable for plantar fasciitis. Thanks to the cushioning and absorption of higher thrust.
The design keeps the wearer from falling over when walking on a slick floor or an uneven surface.
Both indoor and outdoor shifts can use this component.
Overall, they’re a wise purchase for nurses who suffer from plantar fasciitis.
Pros
- The zigzag outsole provides excellent traction.
- Your feet stay dry and odor-free thanks to the breathable top.
- During your busy shift, it offers flexibility and comfort.
- Your heels will feel less pressure thanks to the improved memory foam.
- The midsole is incredibly sensitive and shock-absorbing.
Cons
- Nurses on a tight budget might be concerned about the high cost.
- In a few months, tread might lose its effect.
7. Orthofeet Plantar Fasciitis Orthopedic Shoes
While performing your daily tasks at work, this orthotic sneaker is specifically created to provide maximum comfort on your feet, knees, and lower back.
We were immediately drawn to the non-tie-up lacing mechanism, breathable mesh, and distinctive colours.
Your great comfort and mobility are guaranteed by the design of the sneakers.
It has an innovative air cushioning mechanism that lessens the pressure on your feet’s bottoms.
A built-in gel padding that eases discomfort and lowers the likelihood of developing blisters supports the cushioning technology.
The anatomical arch support system conforms to the contours of your foot. This function ensures that your weight is distributed evenly between your feet.
Overall, it’s a useful alternative for male nurses with plantar fasciitis.
A personalized and adjustable fit is possible thanks to the two-way lacing system and adjustable straps on the side and heel of the shoe.
With these shoes, you get support around your foot placement, which helps with bad positioning and gets rid of heel pain.
The two-way lacing system and closure on the Orthofeet plantar fasciitis orthopaedic shoe make it simple to fasten it using shoelaces.
Pros
- Large toe box for bunion and hammertoe treatments.
- It includes an air-cushioned sole that is lightweight and ergonomic.
- Foam cushioning that is comfortable for a better fit.
- Your feet will have extra room thanks to the increased width.
- a great option for nurses who have neuropathy, diabetes, or arthritis.
- Premium orthotic insoles with several cushioning layers for comfortable, pillow-like support and anatomical arch support.
- It has a special therapeutic design that improves stability, reduces joint stress, and makes walking easier.
Cons
- Fewer colours.
- The sole isn’t very sturdy.
7. Nurse Mate’s Women’s Bryar Slip-On Clog Shoes
Are you seeking anything particularly fashionable?
Nurse Mate’s Bryar Slip-On Clogs is a practical and fashionable option for nurses.
Thanks to the durable leather used for the outside surface, it has a professional appearance.
You’ll be pleased to learn that the 2.5-inch heel on these clogs is also connected.
These shoes are functional for nurses with plantar fasciitis despite their elegant design.
Its high shock-resistant technology, which cushions the blow, is the fundamental cause of this.
You’ll adore the pillow top footbed, which provides all-day comfort.
Additionally, the elastic bands guarantee that you won’t experience any difficulty taking it on and off during your shift.
Pros
- The shoe is easy to clean and stain-resistant.
- There are both standard and broad widths.
- Stylish design to boost your self-esteem and grab others’ attention.
- To keep your feet comfortable, the pillow top footbed has moisture management.
- A cost-effective shoe for nurses suffering from plantar fasciitis.
- You can effortlessly put them on and take them off thanks to the elastic bands.
- Impact dissipation is made possible by the high shock resistance function.
Cons
- It costs a little more than comparable nursing shoes.
- Better traction might be possible.
8. Z-Coil Pain Relief Women’s Slip Resistant Clog Sandal
For nurses who prefer clogs over sneakers this Zcoil women offer is a fantastic choice for them.
The pad included in the rigid orthotic orthosis protects and supports the soles of the plantar fascia. This relieves the pain associated with the disorder.
These are also the best shoes for nurses who are on their feet all day. The padding protects the joints from sensitive finger alignments and tendons.
The wide footbed offers good comfort and relieves pain in the forefoot joints.
Soft leather, permeable lining, and toe cushions are used in the construction of these clogs for comfort and mobility.
We also appreciate the brand’s attention to your orthopaedic requirements by providing you with pain relief every time you put them on using sophisticated shock-absorbing technology.
These things make them the best shoes for nurses with plantar fasciitis. The shoes have a heel of 0.75 cm long.
Unlike normal heels, this one has a conical heel called Scoil. Also patented reduces impact by up to 50 percent and reduces general fatigue.
The only drawback is the appearance. It is not very elegant but still, it is one of the most recommended shoes for nurses with Plantar Fasciitis.
Pros
- Made from top-notch leather.
- Easy airflow thanks to the breathable nylon lining.
- Slips and mishaps are avoided by the rubber outsole’s grooves.
- offers pain alleviation using a unique Z-Coil shock-absorbing technology.
- Contoured orthotics support the arch and safeguard the plantar ligaments.
- The toe box is wide enough to allow for toe wiggle.
Cons
- Doesn’t cure foot pain instantly. (Take about 6 hours to cure foot pain).
- Compared to conventional shoes, these shoes are a little more pricey.
9. HOKA ONE ONE Women’s Bondi 7 Running Shoe
Due to its EVA midsole construction, which makes it comfortable and provides enough cushioning for even the longest shifts, the Hoka One One Bondi SR is our top pick overall.
It has an extremely gripping, slip-resistant outsole and has been tested for slip resistance on surfaces containing water, oil, and soap—an crucial characteristic in the healthcare environment.
The American Podiatric Medical Association (APMA) Seal of Acceptance is an additional endorsement for this shoe, indicating that it has been examined by a team of APMA podiatrists to guarantee that it supports foot health.
Pros
- Plush Cushion.
- Injury Prevention.
- Comes in various Widths and Colors.
- Flexible Use.
- APMA seal of acceptance
- Water-resistant.
Cons
- Heavy.
- Tongue Slips.
- Runs Narrow.
10. Asics Women’s Gel-Venture 6 Running-Shoes
Six shoes are one of the most reliable and cost-effective brands and extremely durable. They offer great stability.
All the features that we often identify with plantar fasciitis footwear are present in these shoes.
Among the characteristics are a detachable insole, a shock-absorbing cushioning system, and a comfy design.
All of which makes it possible for you to stroll comfortably in these shoes all day long.
They come in a wide variety of colors, which is another feature we adore. So it’s simpler to match them with your scrubs.
These sneakers are reasonably priced, which is another plus.
These shoes are a cost-effective alternative to bespoke custom shoes and are ideal for people with plantar fasciitis and flat feet. They provide a lot of support for our feet and can act as painkillers.
One thing to keep in mind with these shoes, six shoes need a little more size than your usual pair of shoes. It is important to choose the right size.
Otherwise, slipping may occur which can be dangerous for additional injury. This model is slightly wider in the heel. So it is not recommended for those with narrower feet.
Given this, it is recommended that you order a size smaller than what you typically wear.
Pros
- The quite robust design is thus extremely durable.
- With the aid of its cutting-edge gel cushioning system, effectively absorbs shock.
- Medical orthotics can be easily inserted inside the shoe thanks to the removable sock liner.
- The structure provides good stability.
- For nurses with flat feet, they are effective.
- They are reasonably priced and readily accessible.
Cons
- Unsuitable for narrow feet.
- Choosing the right size might be a problem.
Things To Consider Before Buying A Nurse Shoe?
Soft Shoes vs Hard Shoes?
A softer shoe may be necessary if your foot is rather inflexible and has a high arch since a solid surface will place a lot of localized stress on your forefoot and heel, causing strain in the plantar fascia.
Know Your Body
Think about how your body will react while choosing the shoe that will be most comfortable for a long shift.
These symptoms in your feet and legs may be a sign that your existing shoes are lacking something and you need a new pair.
“I would propose a more robust shoe construction if there is a lot of hurting across the forefoot joints or the midfoot/arch at the end of the day,” says Diane Koshimune, M.D., a podiatric surgeon with Kaiser Permanente and a member of the APA’s communications committee.
She also advised wearing shoes with a higher heel than the forefoot (known as a positive drop-in sports kind of shoes) if you have heel pain that is being brought on by plantar fasciitis or Achilles tendonitis.
Contoured Insoles
Your feet’s shape is taken into consideration when creating contoured footbeds. Patients with high arches or severely flat feet which have plantar fasciitis are given them.
The advantages of contoured insoles have been the subject of numerous studies in recent years. Custom orthopaedic insoles, according to research, aid to lessen plantar pressure (source).
By doing this, you can be sure that your feet are bearing weight evenly.
Proper Arch Support
Wearers of shoes with minimal to no arch support may experience issues.
Instability, discomfort, and pain are the results of the lack of support. Because of this, always choose shoes with sturdy arch support when you go shoe shopping.
Your feet will stay solid at work if you wear trainers or clogs with good arch support. This is because the molded insoles maintain your posture straight and reduce muscle soreness.
Shock Absorption
Plantar fasciitis can be brought on by applying too much force and strain to your heels. This could be brought on by excessive exertion, bad posture, or misaligned feet.
Fortunately, many shoes have midsoles that include shock-absorbing materials.
This function lessens the force that jogging and walking have on your feet so that you don’t experience any discomfort while moving.
The shock absorption technology functions as a pain-relieving treatment if you already have plantar fasciitis.
Your irritated tissues receive comfort from it, and it shields them from more suffering.
Breathable Material
With trainers, it is simpler to navigate the hospital quickly and safely. One issue is that leather or other durable shoes prevent air from passing through the shoe’s interior.
As a result, when you take your shoes off, your feet are sweaty and sticky.
The ideal option is to choose shoes that are composed of breathable material with little holes in them, such as nylon or mesh.
Your feet won’t feel stuffy thanks to the holes that allow air to circulate within the shoe.
Final Verdict
Running, walking, or prolonged periods of standing in poor footwear can all increase the force through your feet and aggravate plantar fasciitis.
The shoes that make it easiest for you to work your shifts are ultimately the finest ones for nurses with plantar fasciitis.
All of the shoes on our list have characteristics that meet this requirement.
Some of them, such as the Orthofeet Orthopedic Men’s Sneaker, claim that they were specially created to address your foot ailment.
Michel's passion for shoes and flowers is evident in his acclaimed "Shoe Fleur" photography series, which features shoes transformed into stunning floral arrangements. His work has been exhibited in galleries and museums around the world, including the International Center of Photography in New York City and the Maison Européenne de la Photographie in Paris.
