12 Best Shoes for Nurses Who Stand All Day Long

As a top running shoe for those who suffer from plantar fasciitis during testing from the Good Housekeeping Textiles Lab, the Ghost 14 uses a cushioning heel to absorb pressure and ease foot pain. Available in both wide and narrow sizes, the shoe is designed with a larger heel that lessens the impact the shoe has hitting the ground when moving, helping to keep the rear foot and Achilles tendon ache-free.

One reviewer said, "The fit is great. They are very lightweight with arch support. I do 7-10 miles daily. I work out at the gym 6 days a week. I also work on my feet. I used to have sore feet, legs and back. Investing in these great shoes was worth every penny!" The only downside to this running shoe is that reviewers say the sizing runs a bit small, making it hard for some to find the perfect fit.

Earning the title of best walking shoes for standing all day during testing in our Textiles Lab, the Devotion walking sneaker received perfect scores for cushioning and support. Although reviewers did note that it seemed necessary to size up when ordering, they enjoyed the large toe box, lightweight feel, bouncy soles and it's relatively affordable cost compared to its competitors. However, those suffering from foot pain should opt for a shoe that provides more arch support in the soles, since many reviewers mentioned that although some support was there, they felt the shoe would have been more comfortable with more arch support.

In testing for the best walking shoes, the Hoka's proved to be a "game changer" according to our experts, especially if you're already dealing with some sort of foot and/or ankle injury or used to covering long distances. The thick shoe offers lots of cushioning and support, more so than a regular sneaker, with many testers saying it felt like the shoes gave them "a spring in my step," but others thought the thickness made the shoe clunky and hard to walk in. Consumers with wider feet didn't like the narrow toe box, saying it pinched their toes and left their feet aching, preferring the more spacious design that the Bondi 7 has.

Made with mesh fabric, these slip-ons use Active Air technology, according to the brand, to keep feet cool and allow you to move more comfortably. Reviewers note that the shoes provide great arch support and have a durable rubber outsole that makes them ideal for standing for long hours. One reviewer rated the shoes five stars, writing, "I'm on my feet 8 hours, and constantly moving. I have a high arch in my foot and need the support. So far these have lived up to my expectations." Reviewers also note though that they take a bit of grit to get on, so if you're looking for an easy shoe to slip-on and go, then these aren't the shoes for you.

According to the brand, these trendy limited-edition kicks use lightweight waterproof mesh material for breathability and strong rubber soles for traction and durability. One reviewer wrote, "I really love these shoes. My feet no longer hurt after 12-hour shifts."

These shoes tend to run big and are better designed for those with wider feet, so they may not be a feasible option for those who usually opt for something more narrow, and some aren't a fan of how bulky the shoes can be due to the sturdy rubber soles. Nevertheless, customers can't stop raving about their comfort, how stylish they look and the strong ankle support they offer to prevent ankle rolling or foot and heel pain during long days on the job.

GH Textiles experts say these clogs are a very popular shoe among nurses because they are comfortable and easy to wipe clean. Although they have a bit of a quirky design and run a bit big, reviewers can't stop raving about their durability and the way they offer support for the entire body, not just your feet, thanks to the rounded rocker heel design that is thicker and offers more support to help with foot and ankle ailments like arthritis.

"Best work clogs ever," someone wrote in their review. "Two of my shifts are 10-12 hours. These shoes are tough enough to withstand the mess I put them through, and gently support my feet in the process. There was no breaking in, no weird period where my feet, legs or back hurt."

Not only did these shoes earn the title best walking shoes for wide feet in GH Lab tests, but according to the brand, the Orthofeet cushioning system uses orthotic insoles for arch support and multiple cushioning for a comfy shoe designed to be "ideal for plantar fasciitis," or inflammation of the tissue that runs along the bottom of the foot. These shoes may offer relief thanks to the multi-layered cushioning that also may help correct pronation (leaning) and soothe additional heel pain.

One reviewer wrote, "I’m a nurse and on my feet all day. These shoes are the best shoes I’ve had since I started working as a nurse 16 years ago. They have great support and perfect cushioning. I recommend these shoes highly if you have daily foot pain." The only downside? The material of the shoe is hard to clean which means that everyday messes on the job can stain shoes make them dirty fast.

An Amazon top-seller, these cross trainers, although a little clunkier than a conventional sneaker, use their thickness as an advantage by providing extra cushioning with their thick heel. Although not a good option if you are in need of arch support, they are a great option for those with wide feet, thanks to the "roomy" toe box area and their true-to-size fit. Dr. Quirolgico says those with especially wide or narrow feet should often stick to a shoe that offers special sizing, like this New Balance shoe.

"These are the most comfortable shoes I have ever owned in my 24 years of life! They have so much support and look cute at the same time," wrote one reviewer, although they are not the most lightweight pick. "Definitely perfect considering I am a CNA & will be on my feet 12 hours a day."

In our own consumer survey, 91% of testers gave the shoes a perfect rating for comfort and their stylish look and their cushioned insoles make them a favorite for those who work on their feet all day. That said, they are more geared to those with flat feet since they don't have built-in arch support or the strong traction of workout shoes, as noted in our testing when we reviewed Allbirds sneakers.

"So soft and comfy," one review read. "Love the way they feel like I've had them forever from the first time I put them on!" Contrary to popular belief, the shoes, although water-repellent, are not waterproof.

Although these sneakers have adjustable laces, they are designed to be easily slipped on. According to the brand, the Orbits are designed with a breathable knit fabric that's lightweight and flexible, allowing for extra movement, are made from nearly 100% recycled materials and the rubber sole is certified slip-resistant against water, oil and grease. "I wear these as a nurse and they are soooo comfortable. They are super lightweight, durable, and provide all-day comfort," one nurse said in her review.

"The best part is the sole of the shoe is so sturdy that it feels like my foot is super safe and secure." Many reviewers enjoy wearing these off the clock when they are running errands, working out or traveling, especially because they have the added benefit of being a somewhat stylish shoe, although some said they can run small.

Described by one reviewer as a "great shoe for those who stand eight hours or more a day," these budget-friendly clogs are made with sturdy rubber treads to prevent slipping, are easy to clean and have ventilation holes in the sides to prevent overheating. Their plain appearance, although not very stylish, makes them a great unisex option that men and women can enjoy wearing at work. Reviews say that the shoes run a bit small, so make sure to size up if you're looking for more room.

Don't let their unusual appearance deter you: Although customers say they take a little bit of breaking in, according to the brand these slip-ons are slip-resistant, use holes to ventilate and regulate temperature and have a slight heel to alleviate pressure when standing for long hours.

The reviews section was full of nurses, with one writing, "These are the ONLY shoes I wear for 12-hour hospital shifts. I discovered them while I was a dialysis nurse working 14-hour shifts and they were literally heaven sent." Another said, "I've been an OR nurse for 15 years and have worn every popular brand of sneakers or clogs. These by far are the most comfortable shoes I've ever worn at work!"