Caring for others while carrying a new life brings an extraordinary sense of fulfillment, but it also comes with unique challenges, especially when you are a nurse.
Pregnancy demands both physical and emotional adaptability, and for our dedicated nursing professionals, it also necessitates proper footwear that provides exceptional comfort, support, and stability.
This article breaks down the best shoes designed with pregnant nurses in mind.
We’ve combed through the latest trends, spoken with podiatrists and maternity experts, and even taken feedback from nurses who’ve walked those busy hospital corridors during their pregnancy.
Top Recommended Shoes for Pregnant Nurses
| Image | Product | Features | Price |
|---|---|---|---|
Best Overall  | HOKA ONE ONE Bondi 8 Women's Running Shoes |
| Check Price |
Budget Pick  | Slow Man Women's Sock Sneakers |
| Check Price |
Upgrade Pick  | HOKA ONE ONE Clifton 8 Women's Running Shoes |
| Check Price |
Best Clogs  | Dansko Professional Slip-On Clog |
| Check Price |
Best Types of Shoes for Pregnancy
- Hokas
- Clogs
- Brooks
- On Cloud
- Asics
- OOFOS
- Skechers
- Crocs
1. Hokas
Hoka One One has built a reputation for crafting high-quality footwear that provides exceptional cushioning and support, making them an excellent choice for nurses during pregnancy.
With their signature oversized midsole, Hokas deliver superior shock absorption and stability, reducing the strain on feet and joints during long shifts.
These lightweight shoes also feature breathable materials and a comfortable, roomy fit, ensuring that nurses can focus on their patients without being distracted by aching feet.
These are ideal for medical professionals due to their exceptional cushioning and support, which help alleviate foot fatigue during long shifts.
2. Clogs
Clogs have long been a favorite among healthcare professionals, and it’s easy to see why.
Known for their simple, slip-on design and wide toe box, clogs provide ample space for the feet to breathe and spread out comfortably during extended periods of standing and walking.
Many nursing clogs are made with easy-to-clean materials, such as leather or synthetic uppers, and slip-resistant outsoles for added safety on slick hospital floors.
Brands like Dansko and Crocs offer a variety of clogs tailored specifically to the needs of nurses, ensuring both comfort and durability.
These are a popular choice for medical professionals due to their exceptional arch support and all-day comfort provided by the contoured footbed.
3. Brooks
Brooks is a well-known brand in the running community, but their shoes are also an excellent choice for pregnant nurses who spend hours on their feet.
With a focus on cushioning and support, Brooks shoes feature innovative technologies like the DNA LOFT and BioMoGo DNA midsoles, which adapt to the wearer’s stride and provide personalized comfort.
These shoes also have breathable mesh uppers and a secure fit, ensuring that nurses can move with confidence and ease throughout their shifts.
These are an excellent option for medical professionals, thanks to their responsive cushioning and smooth ride, which help reduce foot fatigue during long shifts.
4. On Cloud
On Cloud is a Swiss-engineered brand that combines cutting-edge technology with sleek, modern design, making them an attractive option for style-conscious nurses who are pregnant.
Their patented CloudTec® sole technology provides a unique blend of softness and responsiveness, cushioning each step while still allowing for natural foot movement.
The lightweight and breathable construction, coupled with a supportive midsole and slip-resistant outsole, make On Cloud shoes an excellent choice for those seeking both comfort and performance in their nursing footwear.
These are a great choice for medical professionals, as they provide superior cushioning and support through the innovative Helion™ superfoam, which helps reduce foot fatigue.
5. Asics
Asics is a renowned brand in the world of athletic footwear, and their shoes have garnered a loyal following among nurses as well.
Known for their innovative GEL cushioning technology, Asics shoes provide excellent shock absorption and support, which is essential for long hours of standing and walking on hard hospital floors.
Additionally, their breathable mesh uppers and structured heel support contribute to an overall comfortable and secure fit. Asics offers a wide range of styles to suit the preferences of nurses, making them a popular choice in the healthcare industry.
These are well-suited for medical professionals, as they offer excellent stability and cushioning with their GEL™ technology and FlyteFoam™ midsole.
6. OOFOS
OOFOS is a brand that specializes in recovery footwear, which translates well to the demands of the nursing profession.
(Especially those who are pregnant!)
Their shoes feature proprietary OOfoam technology, which provides outstanding impact absorption and arch support, making them perfect for nurses who need relief during and after a long day on their feet.
OOFOS shoes also boast a soft, comfortable footbed that cradles the feet, promoting natural motion and reducing stress on joints.
With their slip-resistant soles and easy-to-clean materials, OOFOS footwear is a practical and comfortable choice for nurses.
These sneakers are a solid choice for medical professionals because of their patented OOfoam™ technology, which provides superior shock absorption and arch support, reducing foot fatigue during long shifts.
7. Skechers
Skechers is a popular footwear brand known for its wide range of comfortable and stylish shoes that cater to various professions, including nursing.
With their focus on comfort, Skechers shoes often feature memory foam insoles, providing nurses with a cushioned and supportive base for their long shifts.
The brand’s breathable and lightweight materials, combined with their flexible and slip-resistant outsoles, make them an excellent choice for nurses seeking a balance of comfort, support, and durability.
These are a great option for medical professionals because they provide exceptional comfort and support through their Air-Cooled Memory Foam insole and lightweight midsole.
8. Crocs
Crocs have become a staple in the healthcare industry, providing nurses with practical and comfortable footwear options.
Known for their signature clog style, Crocs are made from a soft, lightweight Croslite material that molds to the foot, offering both cushioning and support.
The easy-to-clean, waterproof design makes them ideal for the demands of a hospital environment, while the slip-resistant soles ensure safety on wet or slippery floors.
With a variety of styles and colors available, Crocs cater to the diverse needs and preferences of nurses.
These are an excellent choice for medical professionals because they feature a comfortable and lightweight Croslite™ foam construction with a slip-resistant outsole.
Best Shoes for Support
Support is crucial for pregnant nurses who spend long hours on their feet, as it helps prevent foot fatigue, discomfort, and potential injury.
These shoes provide unparalleled support for medical workers with their VersoShock® technology, which not only absorbs shock but also helps promote proper foot alignment.
The best shoes for support provide features such as a well-cushioned insole, adequate arch support, and a stable midsole, ensuring that feet are properly aligned and protected from strain.
In addition, these shoes often incorporate slip-resistant outsoles and durable materials, making them ideal for the demanding conditions of a hospital environment.
Footwear in this category is designed to prioritize support and stability, allowing nurses to focus on their patients without being hindered by foot discomfort.
Best Shoes for Standing All Day
For pregnant nurses who spend the majority of their shifts standing, it’s essential to find shoes that offer superior cushioning, shock absorption, and overall comfort.
The shoes are an excellent choice for healthcare workers who stand all day, as they offer superior cushioning and support with their compression-molded EVA midsole and early-stage Meta-Rocker geometry.
The best shoes for standing all day are designed to minimize the impact on the feet and joints, helping to reduce fatigue and discomfort over long periods of time.
These shoes often feature extra cushioning, breathable materials, and a comfortable fit that prevents pressure points and friction.
By prioritizing comfort and support, these shoes enable nurses to remain focused and comfortable throughout their demanding shifts.
Best Shoes for Plantar Fasciitis
Nurses who suffer from plantar fasciitis require shoes that provide targeted support and cushioning to alleviate heel pain and discomfort.
These shoes are an excellent choice for medical workers with plantar fasciitis, as their patented VersoShock® technology offers outstanding shock absorption and cushioning, which can help alleviate heel pain.
The best shoes for plantar fasciitis typically feature a well-cushioned heel, strong arch support, and a shock-absorbing midsole to minimize the strain on the plantar fascia.
Shoes in this category often incorporate orthotic insoles or contoured footbeds that help distribute pressure evenly across the foot, ensuring maximum comfort and pain relief for those coping with this common foot condition.
Best Shoes for Nurses with Wide Feet
For pregnant nurses with wide feet, finding shoes that accommodate their foot shape is crucial for comfort and support during long shifts.
These clogs are ideal for healthcare workers with wide feet, as they feature a roomy toe box and are available in wide-width options, ensuring a comfortable fit for those with broader feet.
The best shoes for wide feet offer a spacious toe box and a range of width options, allowing for a more customized fit that prevents pressure points and friction.
These shoes often prioritize flexibility and breathability, ensuring that feet remain comfortable and well-ventilated throughout the day.
Brands that excel in this category cater to the unique needs of nurses with wide feet, providing an optimal balance of comfort and support.
Best Shoes for Nurses with Flat Feet
Nurses with flat feet require shoes that address their specific support needs, such as providing proper arch support and stability.
These running shoes are beneficial for medical professionals with flat feet, as they feature a supportive design with ample cushioning, including the rearfoot GEL™ technology.
The best shoes for flat feet feature structured midsoles, firm heel counters, and ample cushioning to help correct foot alignment and prevent overpronation.
In addition, these shoes often come with removable insoles, allowing for the use of custom orthotics for added support.
Footwear in this category is designed to cater to the unique demands of flat-footed individuals, ensuring maximum comfort and support during long nursing shifts.
Best Shoes for Nurses with Back Pain
For nurses experiencing back pain, it’s crucial to find shoes that help alleviate discomfort by providing proper support, cushioning, and shock absorption.
These slip-on sneakers are beneficial for medical professionals with back pain, as their patented OOfoam™ technology provides exceptional shock absorption and arch support.
The best shoes for back pain focus on maintaining proper body alignment and distributing pressure evenly across the foot, which can help reduce strain on the lower back.
These shoes often feature ergonomic designs, ample arch support, and cushioned midsoles to minimize the impact on joints and the spine during long hours of standing and walking.
By prioritizing features that address the unique needs of those with back pain, these shoes can help nurses maintain their comfort and well-being throughout their demanding shifts, enabling them to focus on providing exceptional patient care.
How to Choose the Best Shoes for Pregnant Nurses
Choosing the best shoes for pregnant nurses involves considering a range of factors that ensure comfort, safety, and durability.
Here’s a guide to help you make the most informed decision:
- Comfort: As feet often swell during pregnancy, a comfortable shoe that provides adequate space is a must. Look for shoes with a wider toe box and consider going a half-size up. Cushioning is also crucial. A shoe with good padding can absorb shock, reducing pressure on your feet and joints.
- Arch and Ankle Support: Due to the extra weight during pregnancy, your arches may flatten, leading to potential discomfort or even plantar fasciitis. A shoe that offers robust arch support can alleviate this. Also, consider a shoe with good ankle support to maintain balance and stability.
- Non-Slip Sole: Hospital floors can be slick and unpredictable. Look for a shoe with a non-slip or anti-skid sole to prevent potential falls and injuries.
- Breathability: Hospitals can be warm, and pregnancy often elevates body temperature. Choose shoes made of breathable materials to keep your feet cool and prevent excessive sweating.
- Weight: A lightweight shoe will be less taxing on your legs and feet during long shifts. It will also help reduce fatigue.
- Ease of Wear: As pregnancy progresses, bending over to put on or take off shoes can be difficult. Consider slip-on shoes or ones with Velcro straps for easy wear.
- Durability: Given the demanding nature of the nursing profession, it’s important to choose shoes made from durable materials that will hold up under constant wear and tear.
- Style: Last but not least, don’t compromise on style. A variety of brands offer shoes that combine functionality with aesthetics, so you don’t have to forgo looking professional and stylish.
Remember: Every pregnancy and every foot is unique. What works best for one may not work for another. Always try on multiple styles and brands to find what feels best for your feet during this special time.
FAQs About Shoes for Pregnant Nurses
What Features Should Shoes for Pregnant Nurses Have?
Shoes for nurses should have the following features:
- Comfort: A cushioned insole and a well-padded interior to provide all-day comfort during long shifts.
- Support: Adequate arch support and a stable midsole to help maintain proper foot alignment and reduce strain on the feet and legs.
- Slip-resistant outsoles: To ensure safety on wet or slippery hospital floors.
- Breathability: Lightweight, breathable materials to keep feet dry and comfortable throughout the day.
- Durability: High-quality construction and materials to withstand the rigors of daily use in a healthcare setting.
- Easy to clean: Shoes should be made of materials that can be easily wiped down or washed to maintain cleanliness and hygiene.
Are Running Shoes Okay for Pregnant Nurses?
Running shoes can be suitable for pregnant nurses, as they often provide good cushioning, support, and breathability.
However, it’s essential to ensure that the running shoes also have slip-resistant outsoles and are made of easy-to-clean materials, both of which are crucial features for nursing footwear.
Why are Good Shoes Important for Pregnant Nurses?
High-quality shoes matter for pregnant nurses because they provide the necessary comfort, support, and durability required to withstand the demands of the profession.
Comfortable and supportive shoes can help prevent foot fatigue, discomfort, and potential injuries, enabling nurses to focus on their patients and provide the best care possible.
Are Clogs Better Than Tennis Shoes for Pregnant Nurses?
Both clogs and tennis shoes have their advantages for nurses, and the choice between them depends on personal preference and specific needs.
Clogs offer a simple, slip-on design, easy-to-clean materials, and a wide-toe box, making them a practical and comfortable choice.
Tennis shoes, on the other hand, provide more structure and support, often featuring advanced cushioning technologies and a secure fit.
It’s essential for nurses to choose footwear that meets their unique comfort and support requirements, regardless of the type.
Where to Buy the Best Shoes for Pregnant Nurses?
To find the best shoes for pregnant nurses, consider exploring various sources, such as specialty medical uniform stores, which typically carry a wide range of nursing shoes and workwear tailored to the demands of the profession.
Online retailers like Amazon, Zappos, or the official websites of shoe brands offer a vast selection of styles and sizes, often accompanied by customer reviews.
Additionally, brick-and-mortar shoe stores and department stores provide the opportunity to try on different styles and sizes for the perfect fit.
Don’t forget to check discount stores and outlets, which might have high-quality shoes at lower prices.
Final Thoughts
Being a pregnant nurse is an incredible journey, carrying the joy of impending motherhood along with the honor of healing and comforting others.
The perfect shoe can be a trusty companion in this journey, providing the necessary comfort, safety, and support to see you through those long shifts.
Investing time in finding the right shoe can significantly improve your working experience and overall well-being during pregnancy.
Remember, it’s not just about the shoe, it’s about prioritizing your health and comfort as you nurture new life and continue in your commendable profession of caring for others.
Stay comfortable, stay safe, and embrace this wonderful journey.
Written by:
John Landry is a registered respiratory therapist from Memphis, TN, and has a bachelor's degree in kinesiology. He enjoys using evidence-based research to help others breathe easier and live a healthier life.
References
- Menz HB, Bonanno DR. Footwear comfort: a systematic search and narrative synthesis of the literature. J Foot Ankle Res. 2021.
- Hurst B, Branthwaite H, Greenhalgh A, Chockalingam N. Medical-grade footwear: the impact of fit and comfort. J Foot Ankle Res. 2017.