It is well known that nurses and other healthcare professionals in the medical area struggle with flat feet.
This is due to the fact that standing for extended periods of time simply makes the situation worse.
If you’re a nurse or other medical worker, wearing shoes without adequate support, you are asking for trouble.
However, we are aware that you have strict rules to follow and there are a lot of footwear choices out there.
You need shoes (see also ‘Best Operating Room Shoes‘) that will provide you with support and comfort, alongside other factors.
If you don’t wear the correct shoes (see also ‘Why Do Nurses Wear Clogs?‘), you may struggle to complete your job as you are distracted by how painful your feet are.
We are aware that selecting the ideal footwear might be challenging.
To assist you locate the best shoes for nurses with flat feet, I’ve put together this guide.
In this article, I have collected together the best shoes for nurses with flat feet that are on the market right now.
There is also a buyer’s guide further along to help you with your purchase.
Dansko Professional Clog
For nurses with flat feet, Dansko Professional Clogs are among the best footwear to choose from.
These shoes come in a variety of colors and patterns, so there is a pair for every situation, even one with a tight dress code at work.
In addition to that, we were pleased to see these shoes were available in a broad range of sizes as well.
Since they are made of genuine leather, durability is guaranteed. These shoes have ample room inside for your toes to move around comfortably throughout arduous workdays.
Polyurethane, which is used to make the soles, is lightweight compared to wooden soles.
Those with flat feet should wear these light shoes to relieve pressure. They also offer excellent stability and support due to their wide heel.
Pros
- Arch Support – These shoes have an enhanced arch support. This support won’t break down after constant use. Thus, you are always provided with support for your feet.
- Lightweight Feel – Due to the polyurethane soles, these shoes feel really lightweight on your feet. Hence, they reduce the pressure on your feet overall as well.
- Rocker Construction – Thanks to a rocker construction, this allows you to have more forward movement while walking. Therefore, you use less energy when walking.
Cons
- Fit – Some customers have noted that they have struggled to get the right fit with these shoes. With them either coming in bigger or smaller than expected.
Also, available to purchase from Dansko.
Nurse Mates Dove Oxford
Many people who work long shifts favor these shoes since they simply provide comfort. They are really simple to put on. The rubber bands along either side of the shoe make them easy to slip on.
These shoes are very useful in settings with tight dress codes. They come in black or white, which is appropriate for most hospitals and pharmacies’ dress codes.
Hence, they are a fantastic option for rigorous dress requirements because of their simplistic appearance.
Additionally, the soles of the shoes are made of a slip-resistant synthetic material, so you won’t have to worry about them sliding off.
We liked that the leather used for the outside body of the shoe, can be easily washed with simple mild soap and water.
Pros
- Flexible – These shoes are known to be incredibly flexible. As a result, they can mold to your feet.
- Slip Resistant – Slip resistant soles are used, so that you can feel safe while walking in these shoes.
- Rubber Inserts – The rubber inserts help you to feel comfortable and supported while wearing these shoes.
- Simple Design – They have a really clean and simple design, so they are acceptable for all workplaces with strict dress codes.
Cons
- Noisy – Some customers have noted that sometimes their shoes can produce a squeaky sound while being worn.
Also, available to be purchase from Nurse Mates and Scrubs & Beyond.
Skechers HC Pro SR
These shoes are especially made to support and comfort flat-footed health professionals. To keep the feet cool, the upper portion of the shoes is composed of a breathable material.
To ensure a comfortable fit around the foot, the design is also meticulously finished with precise stitches.
A padded inner sole and plush padding are also incorporated into the interior design of the shoe for comfort.
Given that it doesn’t press against the foot, the shoe is also excellent for people who have warts and bunions as well.
The Skechers HC Pro SR, fits comfortably and adapts to various foot shapes.
We discovered that the insole also has air-cooled memory foam that cushions the feet from shock. A fantastic shoe to wear for nurses with flat feet.
Pros
- Breathable – A breathable textile material is used to help keep your feet well ventilated.
- Memory Foam – Air cooled memory foam insoles are used to help provide ultimate comfort and protection.
- Slip Resistant – Slip resistant insoles are used on these shoes to help keep you safe while they are being worn.
Cons
- Design – There are a lot of designs available for these shoes. However, some of these designs may be inappropriate for facilities with super strict dress codes.
Also, available to purchase from Skechers and Ebay.
Orthofeet Coral Stretch Knit
These shoes were especially created by the Orthofeet company, for those with flat feet who work long hours.
The shoes are made to provide good support for the soles of the feet and to reduce tension all day long.
The shoe’s heel features an air-cushioned pain-relieving heel that absorbs shock and soothes the foot after a long day.
An ergonomic stride sole is used to create the midsole, which guarantees easy mobility.
For sanitary reasons, an antibacterial coating is also included into the interior.
We discovered that these shoes can expand to fit a variety of foot shapes.
They are perfect for nurses who have flat feet, as well as anyone else who walks with any knee or foot issues.
Pros
- Supportive – These shoes are incredibly supportive, which helps to prevent tension in your legs and feet while constantly being on your feet all day long.
- Pain Relieving Heel – The heel is air cushioned to relieve pain in that area. This makes walking feel comfortable.
- Antibacterial Coating – An antibacterial coating has been included into the insole. This makes these shoes very hygienic to wear,
Cons
- Size – It is worth noting that some customers have noted that these shoes run larger than they expected. Thus, you may need a smaller size than you would usually purchase.
Also, available to purchase from Orthofeet.
Crocs Unisex Bistro
Everyone enjoys wearing comfortable Crocs, especially if they can aid with flat feet issues. For nurses with flat feet, there are the Unisex Bistro Clog Crocs. These shoes are appropriate for both sexes.
Due to the spacious interior and enclosed construction of these shoes, your toes won’t feel cramped.
With a durable exterior that can be cleaned with a cloth, they are also incredibly simple to maintain.
You may even soak them in water, without fearing that they might get destroyed if they do get dirty.
A heel strap is a great feature that has been incorporated into the design of these shoes for comfort and stability.
The shoes can be worn in any circumstance because they are non-slip.
Additionally, the shoes’ soles include massage nubs that help individuals feel better after walking for countless hours.
Pros
- Lightweight – These shoes are very lightweight, which makes them really comfortable to wear.
- Massages Nubs – Crocs have incorporated managed nubs into the soles of these shoes. They provide your feet with pain relief during the day.
- Unisex – These shoes can be worn by both men and women. Also, with their simple design, it means they are appropriate for any dress code.
Cons
- Breathability – Due to the materials that these shoes are constructed from, they aren’t the most breathable. This isn’t a huge flaw, but something to keep in mind.
Also, available to purchase from Crocs and Tradeinn.
Buyers Guide
Due to nurses spending extended periods of time on their feet. This can cause a lot of issues such as flat feet and foot pain.
As a result, the shoes that a nurse decides to wear for these long periods of time need to be able to do the job of keeping them comfortable and supported.
When it comes to browsing and purchasing shoes for nurses with flat feet, there are a couple of factors you need to consider.
Comfort is the main consideration that a lot of people will be thinking about. Yet, there are other things that can help make a shoe ideal for a nurse with flat feet.
Below, we have together this quick and simple guide, that highlights some of the key features to look out for while browsing.
Fit And Size
You’ll likely spend a lot of time on your feet while taking care of patients, so it’s important to buy comfortable shoes.
They will be excruciatingly unpleasant and likely result in blisters if they are too little. In addition to that, they will be uncomfortable if they are too large.
It is important to wear the correct size. Otherwise, you won’t be able to walk correctly, and the shoes won’t be comfortable either.
Therefore, you may be distracted by your feet and shoes and can’t perform your duties correctly.
Make sure the product is the appropriate size and fit for you. You might even hire a specialist to measure you and decide your size to ensure it is perfect.
Budget
Budgeting is a crucial component of almost anything. The amount of money you intend to spend ought to be known to you.
Give yourself a budget if you desire durability, comfort, breathability, and support. All of these characteristics can be found in shoes that are reasonably priced.
Naturally, certain shoes will cost more than others. However, whether you are ready to pay that amount and should be doing so, depends on various characteristics the shoes can offer you.
The absolute last thing you want to do is spend very little money on a pair of shoes that will wear out quickly.
You don’t want to spend a lot of money on shoes that aren’t comfortable or durable, either. It’s about finding the right balance within the budget you have in mind.
Support And Comfort
The best shoes for nurses should provide support to make up for their flat feet’s low arches, which put strain on other portions of their bodies.
Support should be provided through the shoe’s fitting, middle sole, and innersole.
To increase productivity, the shoe’s comfort is also crucial. To avoid sweat buildup and foot odor, the material should be breathable.
Additionally, the shoe must be loose enough to allow you to wiggle your toes.
These are two huge factors that you need to focus on when purchasing shoes for nurses with flat feet.
Comfort is a huge thing. If the shoes you are buying don’t have an adequate amount of comfort or support, then you will notice it straight away.
Durability
Long hours at the workplace necessitate durable footwear that can be washed frequently.
Durability also refers to the shoe’s capacity to continue to offer comfort and support even after extensive use.
The last thing you want to do is spend a lot of money on several pairs of shoes that are constantly falling apart or becoming uncomfortable.
Your feet will spend a significant amount of the day wearing these shoes, therefore they must be durable.
This is primarily due to the materials used in the construction of the shoes. However, it is worth taking note how durable the shoes are, as this will affect whether you should purchase them or not.
Safety
It’s crucial to keep in mind to keep an eye out for safety measures on the shoes you are choosing.
As a nurse, you might work on slick floors and spend most of your time hurriedly moving from one area to another. To prevent falling, select footwear with deep treads and non-slip soles.
All the shoes we have mentioned above, have some kind of anti-slip sole to prevent you from slipping or falling over while wearing the shoes.
Design
It is significant to remember that many hospitals have a rigid dress code. You must therefore pay attention to the shoes you are wearing.
They must also satisfy all the aforementioned requirements. However, they also need to look appropriate for the job.
Some of the shoes we have mentioned in this article may look plain, but they adhere to strict dress codes.
There are also shoes out there that could benefit people with flat feet, but they may have a vibrant design.
You must be cautious of how your shoes look, especially if your place of work has a dress code that you must follow.
Frequently Asked Questions
Does Someone Suffering From Flat Feet Need Arch Support?
Nonprescription arch supports may be recommended by a healthcare professional for people with painful flatfeet.
Since they can aid in relieving the pain. Sometimes it’s advised to use arch supports that have been specially created and molded to fit your feet.
Although arch supports will not cure flat feet, they frequently lessen its symptoms.
Can Flat Feet Be Corrected?
Flat foot structural repair can take three to eighteen months. While many cases of flat feet can be fixed, not all of them can.
Many people choose to live with flat feet and wear shoes that support their feet in the appropriate places.
While also finding shoes that are extremely comfortable, this makes standing and walking for extended periods of time less painful.
Do Flat Feet Cause Any Issues?
For those who suffer from flat feet out there. Other problems, such soft tissue inflammation, may follow from this.
Additionally, flatfeet can cause leg, foot, and arch fatigue. Also, it may cause soreness in your heels, feet, or ankles.
Each of them has a connection to the others. When you spend most of the day standing up, as nurses do, you’ll notice it more. This is why choosing the appropriate footwear is crucial.
What Type Of Shoes Are Nurses Permitted To Wear?
Typically, nurses must adhere to a dress code. As a result, there are some items they can and cannot wear.
The guidelines often favor nurses wearing black, low-heeled shoes with quiet bottoms when it comes to their footwear.
Your hospitals may be more lenient, but this rule will apply to the majority of hospitals. The variety of shoes we suggested follow these guidelines.
These regulations aid in ensuring that nurses are wearing footwear that will protect them while they are working and keep them safe.
Failure to abide by these guidelines may result in a warning from your superior.