7 Best Shoes For Nurses in 2025 (Top Sneaker Picks)

Hey there, healthcare heroes!

Are you tired of ending your 12-hour shift with aching, throbbing feet? Do you struggle to find a sneaker that can truly withstand the demands of a busy hospital floor? You are not alone. As a healthcare professional, your footwear is arguably the most important piece of your uniform. It’s the foundation that supports you through countless miles walked, quick sprints to an emergency, and long hours spent standing by a patient’s bedside. Finding that perfect balance of comfort, support, and durability is not just a preference—it’s a necessity.

In this comprehensive guide, we're counting down the top 7 sneakers specifically designed for nurses and healthcare professionals in 2025. I've personally put each of these shoes to the ultimate test during long shifts, to bring you the most honest and detailed reviews. Let's dive deep into the world of comfort and find the perfect pair to support you, shift after shift.

7 Best Shoes For Nurses in 2025

No.7 New Balance 574 Core Sneaker

The New Balance 574 Core sneaker has long been a popular choice among nurses, praised for its classic, retro design and a solid reputation for comfort. As soon as I slipped these on, I was impressed by the ENCAP midsole cushioning and lightweight foam, which provided decent support right out of the box. The blend of suede and mesh gives it a timeless style that can easily transition from a work environment to casual wear, making it a versatile addition to your shoe collection.

During my testing, I found the arch support to be quite good, a crucial feature for anyone who spends their day on their feet. The 574 offers a stable platform with a wide base, which I particularly appreciated for preventing ankle rolling during those frantic moments of rushing between patients. The outsole is also impressively durable, with a thick 8.2mm of rubber that feels more robust than most other sneakers.

However, this shoe is not without its significant drawbacks. After wearing them for a full 12-hour shift, the lack of breathability became a major issue. The dense mesh panels don't allow for proper airflow, causing my feet to overheat uncomfortably by midday. This makes them a poor choice for the often warm and bustling hospital environment. Additionally, while they provide good stability, they feel noticeably stiffer than other options on this list. They required a significant break-in period, and even after several wears, the flexibility wasn't ideal for the constant, dynamic movement nurses experience. For those who prioritize a cushioned, flexible feel from the start, the 574 might not be the best fit.

No.6 On Cloud 5 Sneakers

The On Cloud 5 sneaker stands out with its distinctive and innovative design, featuring On's signature CloudTec technology—a series of hollowed-out pods under the foot that compress with each landing and spring back up during takeoffs. My first impression of these shoes was how incredibly lightweight they felt. Their sleek, clean aesthetic and modern silhouette also make them one of the more stylish options available.

One standout feature is the unique speed lacing system, a bungee-type lace that allows you to quickly slip the shoes on and off without the hassle of tying. This was incredibly convenient during busy shifts when every second counts. For those who prefer a more traditional, adjustable fit, the shoes also come with a pair of standard laces.

The thin, engineered mesh upper is highly breathable, a major advantage that kept my feet cool throughout the day. The midsole has also been updated with more Zero-Gravity foam, providing a more cushioned and comfortable feel than previous models. During my testing, the On Cloud 5 provided enough cushion to prevent excessive foot fatigue, and its impressive flexibility allowed for natural movement, which is essential for a nurse's fast-paced role.

Despite their strengths, I encountered some issues with the On Cloud 5. Their lateral support is lacking compared to other sneakers on this list. This became particularly noticeable and concerning during the latter half of my shifts when I was feeling more fatigued and needed extra stability. The shoe’s design, while lightweight and stylish, doesn't offer the same secure, locked-in feeling as some of its competitors.

Its lightweight design is great, but the lack of lateral support can be a concern. The PCSole Running Flexible Performance insole features a deep heel cup and firmer arch support, helping to control your foot's motion and prevent it from rolling to the side during quick, lateral movements.

No.5 Skechers Go Run Consistent Sneaker

The Skechers Go Run Consistent sneaker brings some of the most impressive comfort technology to the table, making it a strong contender for a nurse’s daily wear. The Goga Mat technology delivers an excellent combination of high-rebound cushioning and support. As soon as I put these on, the responsive ULTRA LIGHT midsole made walking feel almost effortless, like gliding across the floor.

I was particularly impressed by the M-Strike technology, which promotes efficiency in each stride by creating a smooth transition from landing to toe-off. This feature became increasingly valuable as my shift progressed, helping to reduce fatigue in my feet and legs. The athletic mesh upper provides a great balance of breathability and structure, while the parametric midsole construction adds an extra layer of stability.

The lightweight nature of these shoes is a huge bonus. At just 11.5 ounces for a men’s size 9 and even lighter for a women’s size 7, they never felt heavy, even during the final hours of a 12-hour shift. The 1.5-inch heel height provides a subtle lift without compromising stability. One of the biggest advantages of the Skechers Go Run Consistent is its lack of a break-in period. They were comfortable and ready to go right out of the box, and the lace-up closure ensured a customized, secure fit that prevented any uncomfortable rubbing.

No.4 Adidas Cloudfoam Pure Sportswear Sneaker

The Adidas Cloudfoam Pure Sportswear sneaker truly lives up to its name, with a cushioning system that makes you feel like you're walking on clouds. The newly developed EVA compound in the midsole, combined with a plush memory foam sockliner, wraps the foot in a soft, springy cushion with every step. This cushioning technology is designed to actively support your heel and arch, which are the exact areas nurses need the most protection during long hours of standing and walking.

Beyond its incredible comfort, the streamlined and sporty design offers great functionality. The textile upper is incredibly breathable, which kept my feet cool even during the most hectic shifts. The step-in comfort of these shoes is remarkable; they required no break-in period at all, a huge relief for anyone who needs reliable footwear immediately.

A bonus for environmentally conscious healthcare professionals is that the upper contains at least 50% recycled content. The lace closure allows for a perfect, adjustable fit, preventing any pressure points or slipping. Despite the plush cushioning, these shoes remained lightweight throughout my testing, which was key to reducing fatigue during the last hours of a long shift. The synthetic outsole provided reliable traction on various hospital surfaces, which is a non-negotiable safety feature.

No.3 Reebok Walk Ultra 7 DMX Max

Taking the number three spot is the Reebok Walk Ultra 7 DMX Max, a shoe that delivers on its promise of making you feel like you're walking on air. The standout feature here is the innovative DMX Max Moving Air cushioning system. This technology actively moves air from your heel to your toe and back again with each step, creating a responsive feel that is truly unique. During my testing, this moving air system provided exceptional, dynamic support that kept my feet comfortable even during the most demanding shifts. The sensation of a cushion that adapts to your stride is remarkable.

The premium leather and textile upper strikes a perfect balance between durability and flexibility. Over time, I found that it conformed to the natural shape of my foot, creating a custom-like fit that eliminated any pressure points. The secure lace-up closure kept my feet firmly in place, and the padded heel, tongue, and ankle collar added extra comfort in high-friction areas.

The Memory Tech Memory Foam footbed was a standout feature; it provided plush cushioning that never compressed or flattened, even after hours of continuous wear. This consistent support is crucial for nurses, as it prevents comfort from diminishing halfway through a shift. The durable rubber outsole offered excellent traction on various hospital surfaces, ensuring a secure and safe footing at all times.

No.2 Under Armour Charged Assert 10

The Under Armour Charged Assert 10 immediately impressed me with a design that feels specifically engineered for healthcare professionals. The lightweight, breathable mesh upper with synthetic overlays provides a perfect combination of ventilation and durability, which is essential for the long hours and varied conditions of a nursing shift.

During my testing, the improved breathability, rated 4 out of 5 in lab tests, kept my feet cool and comfortable for the entire 12-hour shifts. The Charged Cushioning midsole is ingeniously designed to be firmer in the heel for stability and softer in the forefoot for comfort during push-off. This dual-density approach provides an ideal balance that is exactly what a nurse on the move needs.

The EVA sockliner adds another layer of step-in comfort that maintains its cushioning properties even after weeks of continuous wear. What truly sets the Charged Assert 10 apart are its stability features. The wider forefoot (150.7mm) and heel (91.3mm) create one of the most stable platforms I've tested, which was key to preventing ankle fatigue during the most hectic moments. The torsional rigidity (rated 35) strikes a perfect balance between stability and flexibility, allowing for natural movement without compromising support. The plush foam padding in the heel counter also offered secure ankle support while protecting my Achilles from any discomfort.

No.1 Reebok Club C Extra Sneaker

Taking the top spot on our list is the Reebok Club C Extra sneaker, which masterfully combines a timeless, classic style with modern comfort technology. The moment I slipped these on, I was met with immediate, out-of-the-box comfort; no break-in period was required. The leather uppers with nylon inlays created a supportive yet flexible fit that perfectly adapted to my feet from the very first wear, preventing any blisters or discomfort.

What truly sets the Club C Extra apart is its exaggerated platform midsole with a geometric design. This is more than just a style choice—the substantial 1.25-inch (30mm) platform provides exceptional shock absorption and cushioning that made a noticeable difference during my testing. After completing three consecutive 12-hour shifts, I experienced none of the usual back pain and foot throbbing that typically sets in around midday with lesser shoes. The EVA midsole delivered consistent comfort, absorbing impact in real time as I moved quickly between patients.

The retro-styled terry cloth tongue and collar are more than a design element; they provide plush comfort around the ankle area, preventing friction and irritation. The perforated accents in the toe box enhance breathability, keeping my feet cool and comfortable. The textured platform rubber outsole offered exceptional grip on various hospital surfaces, including those occasional slippery spots.

The Secret Weapon: How Insoles Can Boost Your Shoes’ Performance

Even the best sneakers on this list might not offer a perfect fit for every foot. Footwear needs are highly individual, and factors like arch height, gait, and weight can all impact your comfort. This is where a high-quality insole becomes your secret weapon. For those shoes that might lack in one area, adding an insole is a simple and effective way to get the personalized support you need.

PCSsole insoles may be the perfect solution for nurses with specific or severe foot conditions. Providing targeted support and correction for issues like plantar fasciitis, high arches, or overpronation can help relieve pain and prevent further complications. To allow you to stand all day without feeling tired, you need to consider these factors when choosing insoles:

• Improved Foot Support: Insoles are designed to provide enhanced arch support, heel cushioning, and overall foot stabilization, which can help alleviate common foot problems like flat feet, high arches, and plantar fasciitis.
• Reduced Foot Fatigue: The additional cushioning and shock absorption provided by insoles can help reduce the strain and fatigue on your feet, allowing you to work longer shifts without experiencing as much discomfort.
• Enhanced Comfort: Insoles can mold to the contours of your feet, providing a customized fit and a more comfortable wearing experience throughout your workday.
• Improved Posture and Alignment: By supporting the natural curves of your feet, insoles can help maintain proper posture and spinal alignment, reducing the risk of back pain and other musculoskeletal issues.
• Moisture Management: Some insoles are designed with moisture-wicking materials, helping to keep your feet dry and preventing the buildup of sweat and bacteria, which can lead to odor and skin irritation.
• Increased Stability and Balance: Insoles with features like deep heel cups and anti-slip surfaces can enhance your stability and balance, reducing the risk of falls and injuries, especially on a slippery hospital floor.
• Customizable Support: Many insole brands offer a range of options, allowing you to choose the level of support and cushioning that best suits your individual foot type and needs.

We believe that PCSsole Running Flexible Performance is the best shoe companion for the above sports shoes, so give it a try!

Final Thoughts: Choosing Your Perfect Nursing Shoes in 2025

There you have it—our breakdown of the 7 best shoes for nurses in 2025, from reliable classics to innovative performers. Each was tested for real-world nursing demands, emphasizing comfort, support, and durability. Consider factors like your foot type, shift length, and environment when selecting. Always check for wide fits if needed, and maintain your shoes by cleaning regularly to extend their life.

In a field where every step counts, investing in quality footwear can transform your workday. Whether you're battling foot fatigue or seeking style, these top sneaker picks deliver.