Working a 10-12-hour shift on your feet in a hospital, clinic or long-term care setting? The right shoe matters, more than you might think. At CareRev we dug into nurse forums, Reddit threads and expert round-ups to find the standout picks for 2026. Below you’ll find our ranking of top shoes and the criteria we used to judge them.
Our ranking criteria
We judged shoes using these four key dimensions (based on what nurses repeatedly mention):
- Comfort & cushioning – Does the shoe support long hours of standing, walking, lateral movement without crushing your feet? Many nurses emphasize cushioning.
- Support & stability – Good arch support, heel stability, slip resistance, and ability to handle sudden movement (e.g., sprinting for a code).
- Durability & practicality for healthcare – Easy to clean, resistant to fluid/spill, no holes (for infection control), slip-resistant soles, machine washable if possible.
- Real-world nurse endorsement – It’s one thing for a brand to claim comfort; it’s another for dozens of nurses to say “Yes, I survive 12-hour shifts in these.” Reddit is a goldmine.
We weighted each item roughly equally, but gave a small bonus for strong nurse testimony and healthcare-friendly features (cleanability, slip resistance).
Our top picks for 2026 (with links)
Here are six strong options, each fulfilling the above criteria to different degrees. You’ll want to pick based on your foot shape, shift type (ER vs outpatient), and whether you prefer a sneaker vs clog style.
1. Brooks Ghost (15, 16, 17)
Link: Brooks Ghost
Why it's on the list:
The Brooks Ghost line consistently earns top marks from nurses for all-day comfort and cushioning. The shoe’s DNA Loft midsole absorbs impact during long shifts, while its balanced support helps reduce fatigue and pressure points. Nurses also highlight its strong traction and reliable stability when moving quickly on slick hospital floors. Though it looks more like a running shoe than a work shoe, its breathable upper and proven durability make it a standout for healthcare environments. Real nurses on Reddit frequently praise the Ghost series as “the only shoe that gets me through 12-hour shifts pain-free.”
One nurse says:
“Brooks… literally the only shoe I’ve found that gets me through my whole day without pain.”
Potential Cons:
While highly cushioned, some nurses find the Brooks Ghost too soft or lacking in slip resistance compared to dedicated work shoes. The mesh upper isn’t fluid-resistant, so it may not be ideal for areas with frequent spills.
2. Clove Classic
Link: Clove Classic
Why it's on the list:
Designed specifically for healthcare professionals, Clove Classics are built for performance in clinical settings. They feature cushioned insoles, stable arch support, and slip-resistant rubber outsoles made for hospital floors. The fluid-repellent upper is easy to wipe clean, helping maintain infection control standards. Clove also scores high in nurse testimonials, with many citing its quick on/off design and easy maintenance as game-changers during hectic shifts. It’s one of the few shoes engineered from the ground up for nursing needs.
Nurse feedback:
“I found a new company called Üni Shoes… these are water resistant, super easy to clean, and very comfortable.”
Potential Cons:
Cloves can feel snug for wide feet, especially during long shifts. Some nurses report that the structured upper sacrifices a bit of flexibility compared to running shoes, and the premium price may not fit every budget.
3. Crocs Neria Pro II
Link: Crocs Neria Pro II
Why it’s on the list:
The Crocs Neria Pro II balances practical protection with comfort that lasts. Nurses love its roomy fit, supportive footbed, and slip-resistant outsole—perfect for fast-paced hospital floors. The closed-toe, no-hole design prevents spills or fluids from seeping in, making it ideal for infection control. The Croslite foam provides reliable cushioning without sacrificing stability. Real nurses often say these clogs “keep feet ache-free even after 13-hour days,” cementing their reputation as one of the most durable and easy-to-clean options available.
Nurse feedback:
“I love the Crocs Neria II pro clog. … They are easy to clean and wipe down and my feet don’t ache after 13h+ days.”
Potential Cons:
The clog design isn’t for everyone, it’s bulkier and less breathable than sneakers. Some nurses mention that the heel area can feel loose without socks, and the minimal arch support may not suit high arches.
4. Dansko XP 2.0
Link: Dansko XP 2.0
Why it's on the list:
A long-standing favorite among healthcare professionals, the Dansko XP 2.0 delivers dependable support for nurses who prefer clogs over sneakers. Its contoured midsole and shock-absorbing footbed provide excellent arch and heel stability. The slip-resistant outsole grips well on hospital surfaces, and the leather upper resists stains and spills. Nurses praise the XP 2.0 for its longevity and ability to maintain comfort over years of wear. It’s a professional, polished option that can handle long hours on your feet.
Potential Cons:
Heavier than athletic-style nursing shoes, the XP 2.0 can take time to break in. Nurses who do a lot of fast walking or lateral movement may find the rigid sole less responsive than sneaker-style options.
5. Skechers Work D’Lux Walker SR
Link: Skechers D’Lux Walker SR
Why it’s on the list:
This Skechers model combines sneaker-style comfort with workplace-ready safety features. The memory foam cushioning delivers plush comfort through extended shifts, while the slip-resistant outsole provides dependable traction. The knit upper is breathable yet durable, keeping feet cool in warm environments. Many nurses appreciate Skechers as an affordable alternative to premium brands that still offers solid comfort and support for all-day wear. It’s a practical, budget-friendly choice that doesn’t compromise on stability or cushioning.
Potential Cons:
While comfortable out of the box, the cushioning can compress over time with daily wear. A few nurses report inconsistent sizing and less traction on very wet floors compared to high-end slip-resistant shoes.
6. KURU SHIFT
Link: KURU SHIFT
Why it’s on the list:
The KURU SHIFT was built with comfort and protection in mind. Its patented heel-hugging technology cradles the foot to reduce strain, while the EVA midsole provides soft cushioning for long hours of standing and walking. The slip-resistant outsole offers strong traction on wet or polished hospital floors, and elastic laces make it easy to slip on and off between shifts. While newer to the nursing community, it’s gaining attention for its comfort and durability, ideal for those who need dependable support during demanding shifts.
Potential Cons:
Newer to the healthcare scene, so there are fewer nurse-specific reviews. Some users find the fit narrow, and the higher price point may be hard to justify without trying them on first.
Finding the Right Nursing Shoes for You
At the end of the day, the best nursing shoes are the ones that fit your unique needs, your arch type, your floor surface, and the demands of your shift. What works for an ER nurse sprinting between rooms might not suit someone in outpatient care or long-term settings. The good news? Brands are listening to healthcare professionals more than ever, designing shoes that balance comfort, support, and cleanability. If you’re due for a new pair, start with these nurse-approved options and remember: your feet are the foundation of every great shift.
