10 Best Podiatrist-Approved Leather Nursing Shoes Of 2024
Long-lasting, supportive, and flexible! Stay comfortable in leather shoes made for nurses.
Dr. Mathew M. John is a podiatrist with more than two decades of professional experience. He is currently the Medical Director of the Atlanta Center for Foot & Ankle Surgery in Sandy Springs and a published medical journal author. Dr. John is board-certified by the American Board of Foot and Ankle Surgery, a fellow of the American College of Foot & Ankle Surgeons, and a member of the American Podiatric Medical Association.
Read full bio of Dr. Mathew M. John
Experience: 3 yearsThe day Priyam learned that having strong opinions about everyday products can be a full-fledged writing career was the greatest day of her life. Partially driven by a passion for everything timeless, she likes to explore and recommend styles and makeup products that will endure the test of trends.
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Experience: 3 yearsSrijani is an associate commerce editor with a master's degree in journalism and mass communication from the University of Calcutta, West Bengal. She is certified in makeup techniques and is also a certified style and image consultant.
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Experience: 2.5 yearsShatabdi is an associate editor and an alumnus of Lady Brabourne College, Kolkata, where she honed her skills and developed a deep understanding of the world of literature and expression. She has worked with various organizations and websites operating in different industries, ranging from education to lifestyle, showing her adaptability and drive to learn.
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Healthcare professionals like nurses spend a major part of their day being active on their feet. The best leather nursing shoes can help them navigate busy days in comfort. A pair of good quality leather shoes that is appropriate for nursing staff should offer good arch support and be well-cushioned. The shoe must be soft on the feet. Leather as a fabric is extremely flexible and long-lasting, not to mention extremely sturdy. These shoes ensure that your feet stay moisture-free and you do not get pesky blisters that make movement painful.
We must always pay special attention to the kinds of shoes we invest in. Shoes play a major role in making sure that we do not suffer from foot-related problems or have backaches. A pair of good quality leather nursing shoes is ideal for people who walk around all day or pull all-nighters on their shifts. The market has a wide variety of brands that offer good quality leather nursing footwear that are tested to be durable and sturdy. We have compiled a list of some of the best that there are out there. So, keep reading to find out more about them.
In This Article
Are Leather Shoes Suitable For Nurses?
As an earnest shoe-wearer, there are 2 things that matter to you more than anything else — durability and comfort. Leather scores high on both criteria since it can outlast a majority of synthetic materials and give your feet the support they desperately need in high-stress environments. Good-quality leather also creates an extra layer of protection from piping-hot liquids or sharp objects, so you can stay out of harm’s way. It repels moisture, keeps you dry (crucial for blister prevention), wipes clean most of the time, and molds to the shape of your feet. If every day at work is a new battle, leather shoes are your first line of defense.
The 10 Best Leather Nursing Shoes To Withstand Long Workdays
1. Best Stain-Resistant:Hawkwell Women’s Slip-Resistant Leather Medical Shoes
When you spend most of your day running around a hospital or restaurant, your first priority is to remain stable on slippery, liquid-smeared floors. These Hawkwell shoes feature a lightweight EVA bottom that’s slip-resistant and stain-resistant, so you just need to wipe them clean. Crafted with full-grain synthetic leather, the pair is thick enough to withstand constant use and has tight pores that retain moisture. Infused with a super-lightweight yoga foam insole, these best-selling shoes are designed to minimize foot fatigue and give you a soft, cushiony platform that decreases the pressure on your tendons, muscles, and joints. These easy slip-on nursing shoes have a padded instep collar that embraces your feet, this pair will keep you comfy and blister-free for a long time.
Pros
- Full-grain synthetic leather
- Removable footbed
- Easy on and off
- Slip and stain-resistant
- Neutral arch support
- Available in 2 colors and styles
Cons
- The back of the shoe might rub slightly.
Pro Tip
Why We Think It's Worth Buying
With 5,869 positive reviews on Amazon, this product has become a bestseller.
2. Best Anti-Slip Grip:Klogs USA Naples Leather Nursing Clog
Specifically engineered for nurses, these brown leather nursing clogs come with shock-absorbing outsoles that repel all kinds of fluids and are easy to clean. You will have no problem wearing them for long hours as the supportive insole cushioning is designed to sustain prolonged standing and walking. Crafted with genuine leather that makes these shock-absorbing shoes highly durable and a synthetic sole that creates a water-resistant barrier. These clogs are trusted by customers to be ideal for work and are charming enough to pair with casual outfits. The toe box of these supportive shoes is quite roomy, which is an essential quality because staying on your feet all day can lead to swelling.
Pros
- 100% leather
- Anti-slip
- Durable leather
- Anti-slip and durable outsole
- Removable insole
- Odor-resistant
- Additional cushioning
- Available in 21 patterns
Cons
- Might be too wide for some
Why We Think It's Worth Buying
More than 1,722 rave reviews on Amazon prove why we are so in awe of this product.
3. Best Cushioned Footbed:Dansko Women’s LT Pro Clogs
As one of the most comfort-focused footwear brands in the USA, Dansko shoes are a go-to among nurses. These professional clogs might be a bit clunky but they’re also unbelievably lightweight yet surprisingly plush that you’ll end up wearing them everywhere. With an EVA insole and compression-molded outsole, these cushioned nursing shoes offer long-lasting comfort without ever crumbling under pressure. Dr. Mathew M. John, an expert podiatrist says, “With a slightly raised heel and rocker bottom toebox they provide excellent structural support for the foot.” The sock liner made from leather keeps your feet dry and warm by absorbing sweat while increasing the comfort of your shoe. These statement footwear keep your feet comfortable and are perfectly suited to hiking or long walks on concrete or similar surfaces.
Pros
- Cushioned footbed
- All-day comfort
- Ergonomic design
- Compressive outsole
- Stain-resistant
- Wipes clean
- Leather sock lining
- Available in 14 colors
Cons
- Slightly expensive
Pro Tip4. Best Dual-Density PU Sole:Alegria Joleen Slip-On Leather Nursing Shoes
What’s unique about these leather-top nursing shoes in addition to the fact that they boast the APMA seal of approval, is their polyurethane core. The material is commonly used in designing sports and trekking shoes as well as footwear for labor-intensive jobs that demand rigorous use. The shoes have an ergonomic design which ensures comfort. It’s light as air, offers an excellent grip on the most slippery of surfaces, and resists water and chemicals with ease. The genuine leather body doesn’t let stains stick around, while the removable footbed allows you to adjust the interiors according to your comfort. Available in a wide variety of styles and patterns, the pair is ideal for professional and casual use. It has garnered rave reviews from nurses dealing with serious foot issues like a torn tendon, flat foot, or plantar fasciitis.
Pros
- 100% genuine leather
- Dual-density PU sole
- Removable footbed
- APMA (American Podiatric Medical Assoc)-approved
- Adjustable closure
- Available in 20 patterns
Cons
- The back is slightly inflexible.
Pro Tip5. Best Air Cushioning:Zyen Slip-On Leather Loafers
Say sayonara to soreness with these ultra-breathable leather loafers that aren’t just ideal for nurses but for anyone who wants a stylish pair of kicks. According to reviews, the rounded toe box is spacious enough to accommodate broad, swollen feet while the high-rebound latex insole soaks up shocks (but never liquids) and feels comfortable all day long. Designed with natural, anti-slip EVA soles and stitched with a focus on durability, the shoes will gain you a lot of traction — on the floor and among co-workers — even after years of everyday wear. When you’re not attending to patients or customers, you can pair these non-slip nursing shoes with a cute dress or even workout leggings for relentless arch support.
Pros
- Non-slip EVA sole
- Comfortable shoes
- Air cushioning
- Flexible insoles
- Easy to clean
- Available in 6 designs
Cons
- Sizing may run small
6. Best High-Grip Rubber Sole:Orient Tree Lightweight Nursing Sneakers White
These short-heeled women’s leather nursing shoes are designed to withstand the rigor of long, hard days. Their rubber sole offers excellent grip and stability, keeping your steps intact no matter how well-polished the floor is. Reviewers like that the insides of the shoes are air-cushioned, so less effort is required to walk or run around in them. Ideal for professionals looking for greater comfort and control, these white leather, easy to clean nursing shoes are ridiculously comfy while also being pairable with casual outfits. The hand-stitched seaming and holes on the side are purposeful inclusions to make this pair of shoes last longer and give you extra breathability.
Pros
- 100% leather
- High-grip rubber sole
- Soft and lightweight
- Pure white design
- Hand-stitched seam
- Easy to clean
- Available in 4 styles
Cons
- The heel might be slightly loose for some.
7. Best Latex Padding:MaxMaxun Non-Slip Leather-Top Nursing Shoes
Ultra-light and air-cushioned, these all-leather shoes for nurses are also suited to the needs of restaurant professionals dealing with double shifts and splattered floors. With a latex insole that’s highly flexible as well as a slip-resistant outsole, you won’t have to worry about these long-lasting nursing shoes losing shape or succumbing to liquids. According to reviews, these rounded, roomy-toe box shoes have ample space to accommodate wide feet and the leather uppers are easy to wipe clean after a particularly greasy day. Adding a hint of adorable to the otherwise timeless style of this pair is a tiny hand-sewn heart on the front that’ll make you look and feel super-cheery through every shift.
Pros
- Soft latex padding
- Durable hand-stitching
- Ultra-lightweight
- Air-cushioned insole
- Available in 3 colors
Cons
- The sizing may run large.
8. Best Waterproof Design:Zove Platform Nursing Shoes
If maximum comfort with no unnecessary frills is your only ask, these all-black leather nursing shoes are made just for you. Each time you put them on, everything from the easy slip-in to latex cushion will make your feet sing with joy and relief. The slip-resistant PU sole is there to keep you steady and tack on a few extra years of shelf life to the leather. Blessed with a healthy amount of arch and heel support along with a waterproof body, these are an excellent choice for those who can’t resist a functional, no-nonsense pair of loafers. Keep in mind that these waterproof leather shoes run a little small — opting for ½ or 1 size up is recommended, especially if you have wider feet.
Pros
- Flexible leather vamp
- Slip-resistant PU sole
- Waterproof and easy to clean
- Available in all-white
Cons
- They look slightly clunky.
9. Best Breathable Design:Vangelo Slip-Resistant Work Sneaker
Approved by the American Society for Testing and Materials, the American Podiatric Medical Association, and even White House chefs, this is the gold standard of comfortable leather nursing shoes. Made from genuine leather, the pair is inspired by the needs of performance athletes and infused with the highest degree of slip resistance to keep you safe and sound at every step. Reviewers have agreed that the body of these flexible nursing shoes is mesh-ventilated to prevent inflammation and sweat accumulation, while the removable insoles add a layer of customizability to the shoes. The latter also makes them easier to clean inside out, so you don’t have to worry about odors from pesky bacteria.
Pros
- Genuine leather
- APMA-approved
- Breathable mesh
- Flexible and anti-skid
- Removable insoles
- Wide range of sizes
Cons
- Not suited to wider feet
10. Best Memory Foam Insole:Nursgram Lightweight Leather Loafers
These protective rubber-soled loafers are ready for pretty much anything you throw at them, from 12-hour shifts and slippery floors to falling liquids and rivers of sweat. Constructed from high-grip, slip-resistant soles with leather upholstery, they offer great traction on smooth surfaces when you’re running around while keeping stains at bay. Since the pair is hand-sewn, you can wear it with the confidence that it won’t give up on you at the worst possible moment or anytime soon for that matter. The soft memory foam insole reduces exhaustion and makes you feel like you’re walking on a cloud. Too busy to lace up? Just slip these on and head out!
Pros
- Waterproof body
- Anti-slip rubber sole
- Hand-stitched edges
- Easy to wash
- Available in 4 designs
Cons
- Some may find the heels slightly tall
Whether you want to replace your work shoes with something sturdier and more comfortable or just want to expand your armor inventory, these leather nursing shoes are among the best in the market. Here’s how you can go about choosing the right pair.
What To Look For In The Best Leather Nursing Shoes
1. Easy access
If you’re working in a hospital, restaurant, or other high-stress environments, speed is of the essence. That means you need to slip in and out of your kicks lightning-quick, which is only possible with slip-ons. You can change from one pair to another at a moment’s notice and wipe them clean without having to struggle with lace ridges.
- Lightweight
The lighter your shoes, the easier to use. When you’re staying on your feet all day long, you want to save as much energy as possible for important tasks. Lightweight shoes reduce your exertion and improve your flexibility, so you can still function at the 11th hour of your shift. Moreover, light shoes offer superior comfort and are so much more breathable, which is a prerequisite for sweaty feet.
- Arch support
Proper arch support is integral to reducing the pressure on your back and joints. It prevents knee, hip, and back pain while adding fluidity to your movements. Before you buy a pair of leather nursing shoes, check if they support your specific type of arch. You can perform a simple exercise to find out your arch type by wetting your feet and walking across a dry surface like a wooden deck. If the imprints heavily reflect your ball and heel areas with a thin line connecting the two, you have a high arch. However, if the line is rather prominent, your arch type is low. To make sure your shoes have adequate arch support, wear them around the house for a few minutes. If there is no discernible strain on your feet and back, they’re a keeper. Also, look for the right midsole with extra cushioning for all-day standing.
- Slip resistance
This is super-important because your job involves running around on different kinds of surfaces that may or may not have intermittent liquid spills. Anti-skid shoes will keep you stable on slippery surfaces and save you from hot splatters or other occupational injuries. Slip-resistant shoes are typically designed to support the natural shape of your feet — so in addition to stabilizing you, they will also help you side-step sprains and strains.
Infographic: How To Store Your Leather Nursing Shoes
Storing your leather nursing shoes properly is essential to maintain their quality and longevity, especially as leather is a delicate material that needs extra care and attention. In the infographic below, we have compiled the best practices for storing leather nursing shoes to ensure they stay in top condition through the seasons. Check it out for more information.
Illustration: StyleCraze Design Team
The Bottom Line
As nurses and health care professionals, you have to work and stand for long durations. Standing for hours may hurt your feet and cause pain. But you can avoid this problem with one of these pairs of the best nursing shoes. The leather nursing shoes are made of extremely flexible material and have a well-supported cushion that supports your arches and prevents foot injuries. These good quality footwear are a great choice for people who stand to perform their duties all day long. For example, the Hawkwell Women’s Slip-Resistant Leather Medical Shoes have a cushiony platform to support your muscles and joints, the Klogs USA Naples Leather Nursing Clog is known for its absorbing outsoles that repels fluids, and the Alegria Joleen Slip-On Leather Nursing Shoes are made with durable material and offer an excellent grip. In addition, the footwear is easy to clean, lightweight, and odor-free. However, some shoes might be too wide at the toes. Conduct a shoe fit assessment to identify your shoe size and buy the shoes accordingly. You can also consult a shoe fit specialist for help. Consider factors like ease of use, arch support, design, and weight before investing in one of these products.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long do leather nursing shoes last?
While leather inherently comes with a long shelf life of 2 to 10 years, nursing shoes will last you between 2 and 4 years, given the regular use. Since you’ll be wearing them for long hours and putting them through multiple miles every day, they won’t last you as long as a leather dress shoe. To prolong their life, you can alternate between 2 or more pairs in a week so there’s less strain on each of them. Also, maintaining them on a daily basis by cleaning and getting rid of scruffs will help you make the most of your shoes.
Should nursing shoes be made from leather?
Yes. Leather nursing shoes are durable and sturdy. They are well-cushioned and moisture-resistant. Also, they offer good arch support to the nurses.
What kind of shoes are nurses supposed to wear?
Slip-resistant, cushioned, and moisture-resistant shoes are ideal for nurses. Also, closed-toe shoes provide better protection to their feet while on duty.
How often should you change your shoes as a nurse?
Nursing shoes deteriorate after a few months. Also, these shoes face structural breakdown and cause foot pain. Therefore, it is better to change your nursing shoes every six months.
How do you clean leather nursing shoes?
• Use a soft brush to wipe off the dry dirt from the top and bottom of the shoes.
• Soak a piece of cloth in soapy water and wipe off the dust stains on the shoes.
• Let the shoes air-dry. Later, pat the shoes with a soft, clean cloth.
Why do nurse shoes have to be white?
The white color represents cleanliness and purity. These are essential attributes of the nursing profession. So, nursing shoes are usually white.
Why Trust StyleCraze?
The author, Priyam Gupta, is a fashion enthusiast who loves reviewing different products for users. After thorough research, she has provided a detailed list of the best leather nursing shoes. She went through numerous reviews and feedback on multiple forums and brand websites to help you pick the perfect nursing shoes. The products listed in this article ensure that your feet stay moisture-free and prevent pesky blisters.
Read full bio of Dr. Mathew M. John
Read full bio of Priyam Gupta
Read full bio of Srijani Roy Chowdhury
Read full bio of Shatabdi Bhattacharya
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