Image: MomJunction Design Team
Being a healthcare professional can be challenging, especially when you do not have the best operating room shoes. Doctors, nurses, scrub techs, and other healthcare workers stand for long periods while working, often leading to pain in the bones, joints, and soft tissues in the legs. The wrong pair of shoes can also cause back issues and blisters. However, there are shoes to help alleviate pain and make you feel better. Keep scrolling to learn more about the expert-approved shoes for supporting your feet.
Top Picks
11 Best Operating Room Shoes
1. Best Slip-Resistant:Crocs Bistro Clog
Crocs Bistro is fully molded, easy to clean, and non-slip. The closed-toe surgical clogs have a sturdy metatarsal area that protects the feet from spills and moisture. These 100% synthetic clogs are lightweight and supportive, making them an excellent choice for surgeons and nurses. The ample width on the front, Crostile foam cushion and contoured footbed offer 360-degree comfort and durability. If you need more convincing, feel free to take a look at this YouTuber’s review video on the merits and demerits of these tried-and-tested shoes for nurses.
Pros
- Slip-resistant outsole
- Waterproof
- Lightweight
- Easy to clean
- Durable
- Machine washable
- Enclosed toe design
Cons
- May shrink in the heat
"The vibrant colors and print were the first thing to attract me to these shoes. The textured soles required some getting used to, but their durability has been impressive. Plus, the arch support has kept my feet from fatigue and made the transition from outdoor to indoor use seamless."
Why We Think It's Worth Buying
The 45,941 positive reviews on Amazon are proof that this product meets customers' expectations.
2. Best Easy-To-Clean: Keep Nursing Clogs For Women
Keep Nursing’s practical design provides a strap that can be worn forward to make it a slip-on or backward for a snug fit. The professional clogs are made of PVC and protect the feet from liquids and water spills. These quality-tested scrub shoes with rubber outsoles provide support to the feet on tiled floors. The extra cushioning removable insole provides comfort for your feet, while the insole’s print adds a fun element. If you want a detailed review of the medical clogs, make sure to take a look at this video.
Pros
- Waterproof
- Soundless
- Low heel collar
- Thematic printer insole
- Easy to clean and maintain
- Slip-on design
- Removable insole
- Can be machine-washed
Cons
- May not be suitable for wide feet
"Their thick soles provide ample support and cushioning even when I walk on hard kitchen floors and outdoor surfaces. They are tricky to clean, but the comfortable fit and snug strap make that hassle worth it."
Quick tip3. Best Shock-Absorbing:Sticky Non-Slip Nursing Shoes for Women
Why We Think It's Worth Buying
The whopping 8,981 positive reviews on Amazon reflect the superior quality of this product.
Made of shock-absorbing and non-slip soles, Sticky nursing shoes provide extra comfort to your feet and keep them safe on slippery floors. These shoes for nurses have a low maintenance design, are lightweight, and give full support to the feet to endure long hours of standing. Easy to wash with soap and water, the trusted rubber soles are waterproof and have a moisture-wicking insole to keep your feet ventilated all day. You can also check this YouTuber’s detailed review to know more about the results after using these shoes for surgeons and nurses.
Pros
- Lightweight
- Slip-resistant outsole
- Absorb shock
- 90-day warranty
- Waterproof
Cons
- May not provide enough arch support
"The shoe's anti-slip features and durability have made it the perfect blend of functionality and stability. Although I would have liked the arch support to be better, the moisture-wicking and waterproof material compensated for that issue."
Crocs Bistro Clog Best Slip-Resistant | Keep Nursing Clogs for Women Best Easy-To-Clean | Sticky Non-Slip Nursing Shoes for Women Best Shock-Absorbing | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Package Dimensions | 10.24 x 9.25 x 4.49 inches | 11.6 x 6.7 x 4.3 inches | - |
| Weight | 14.07 Ounces | 2.56 Pounds | - |
| Material | - | - | Thermoplastic Rubber |
| Dimensions | - | - | 8.66 x 7.09 x 3.54 inches |
| Weught | - | - | 1.04 Pounds |
| Rating | |||
| Reviews | 45,941 | 233 | 8,981 |
| Price | $37.31 | $19.9 | $64.9 |
4. Anywear Women’s SR Angel Clog
Anywear’s surgical clogs can provide extra shock absorption and cushion for the feet during long work hours. The detachable antibacterial insoles prevent odor-causing bacteria, and the vents on the sides promote ventilation and breathability to keep the feet cool. These professional clogs have special slip-resistant soles that can prevent you from slipping on wet hospital floors, and the quick-dry molded upper allows you to wipe clean with soap and water. These lightweight scrub shoes for surgeons also have fashionable colors and patterns.
Pros
- Slip-resistant
- Removable antimicrobial-treated insole
- Breathable
- Lightweight
- Wipe clean
- Flexible
- Machine washable
Cons
- May not be suitable for wide feet
"Their durable build and squishy soles performed well regardless of the environment in which I wore them. And while their fit has been commendable, I suggest sizing up if you plan on wearing them over socks. Overall, they have been a reliable option for everyday use."
Pro Tip5. Natural Uniforms M&M Women’s Nursing Clogs
M&M women’s nursing clogs are made of non-marking soles, which are suitable for wet hospital floors. The EVA foam soles are lightweight and flexible and you can use the socks for long hours. The high arch and foot bed support add cushioning and are ideal for lowering stress levels on the feet. Tested by many reviewers, the scrub shoes are slip-resistant and waterproof. Adjustable heel straps provides a good fit and minimize sores and blisters.
Pros
- Lightweight
- Flexible
- High arch
- Low heel collar
- Adjustable heel strap
- Waterproof
- Slip-resistant
- Machine washable
Cons
- May not be true to size
"I've been rotating through different colors of these shoes for various activities. They slip on easily and have held up well to regular use. Moreover, the washable design is a big plus."
6. Best Well-Cushioned:AKK Women’s Athletic Walking Shoes
AKK women’s athletic walking shoes are equipped with soft memory insoles, which cushion the feet from all sides. The athletic shoes have a flexible and robust MD outsole that can absorb shocks and protect your feet from hard floors. The mesh upper allows ventilation and keeps the feet dry and moisture-proof. These convenient slip-on shoes have a closed back design and laces to adjust fit and size. These waterproof shoes with a non-slip design and quality craftsmanship, are an excellent choice for handling wet floors in hospitals.
Pros
- Memory foam insole
- Breathable mesh upper
- Easy slip-on design
- Slip-resistant outsole
- Double as running shoes
- Waterproof
Cons
- May have a chemical smell
"Be it strolls or long shifts, these shoes have kept my feet pain-free during both times. They did not require a breaking-in period, and their lightweight build keeps my feet from being weighed down. However, they may run small, so I recommend sizing up."
Did you know?7. Best Antimicrobial:Vangelo Professional Slip Resistant Clog
Why We Think It's Worth Buying
Over 2,430 Amazon shoppers have left good reviews about this product, citing its quality features and benefits.
Vangelo slip-resistant surgical clogs have a geometric pattern on the outsole, which allows them to channel fluids and give them a better grip on slippery, dry, and wet surfaces. The EVA foam body makes these operating room shoes durable and lightweight. These tried-and-tested antimicrobial shoes come with cushioned and removable insoles to reduce odor and are easy to disinfect. These scrub shoes for surgeons are waterproof, easy to clean, and maintain. The ortho lite sole provides cushioning and ultimate comfort for the foot during long hours of work.
Pros
- Slip-resistant outsole
- Antimicrobial
- Easy to clean
- Waterproof
- Removable ortho lite insole
- Lightweight shoes
Cons
- May not have ventilation holes
"These shoes fit perfectly regardless of whether I was wearing socks or not. And their non-slip soles have kept me from slipping on wet floors. I would have liked the shoes to be more ventilated, but the cushioned insets have ensured comfort."
8. Best For All Occasions: JSWEI Non-Slip Shoes For Men
The JSWEI Non-Slip Shoes for men come with an anti-slip certificate so that you do not have to worry about being prone to slipping. The interior sole comes with massage particles for giving an ultra-light feel to all those who wear it, so whether you are a chef, bartender, or even a nurse, they’re a great option. They are made from high-grade EVA material, making them clean and resistant to acids. The scrub shoes for surgeons have a lace-free design and are available in sizes ranging from 7 to 12 and in two variants of black.
Pros
- Oil-resistant
- Water-resistant
- Patented non-slip pattern
- Low-rise heel collar
- Reduces fatigue
Cons
- The sole may not be very durable
"This footwear has been a boon for days when I have to constantly be on my feet. However, I would have liked the strap to be sturdier. Nonetheless, the shoes have kept me from slipping and reduced the pressure on my back and knees."
9. Best Flexible:DDTX Slip-on Men’s Work Shoes
The slip-resistant EVA rubber soles of DDTX men’s work shoes have a geometric grid that provides ample traction, stability, and prevents fluid and water spills on hospital floors. These operating room shoes have slightly raised heels and are equipped with deodorant open-cell foam insoles, which provide additional support. cushioning and prevent the accumlation of odors. Lightweight and flexible, they feature Nano-PU uppers, making them water-proof and easy to clean.
Pros
- Slip-resistant
- Lightweight
- Water-resistant
- Deodorant insole
- Flexible
Cons
- May not be suitable for wide feet
"I am very impressed with these shoes' performance on grease- and water-covered floors. They were also easy to break in, and the solid hue has been ideal for all occasions. Plus, cleaning and maintaining them has also been a breeze."
10. Best Breathable:Mosida Nursing Shoes
Made of EAV material, Mosida nursing shoes are waterproof and easy to clean. The removable PU insole provides cushioning for efficient pressure absorption. The rubber outsole makes it puncture-proof, slip-resistant, and safe for walking on hospital spills. The best-selling nursing shoes have two vents to provide breathability and minimize odors and bacteria. These hospital shoes for surgeons and nurses are also lightweight and acid- and alkali-resistant, making them an excellent choice for long workdays.
Pros
- Waterproof
- Lightweight
- Slip-resistant outsole
- Breathable and
- Low-rise heel collar
- Removable insole
- Shock absorption
- Machine washable
Cons
- May squeak on tiled surfaces
"These shoes have been perfect for environments like hospital floors and outdoor activities. The lack of half sizes made it tricky to get the right size, but adding an insole solved that issue."
11. Hawkwell Women’s Nursing Slippers
Hawkwell women’s nursing slippers are crafted with nubs on the footbed and provide a massage-like experience for tired feet. The open ports on both sides provide ventilation and ensure that the feet are free of odor and moisture. These shock-absorbing shoes for surgeons and nurses can allow you to stroll around the hospital floors without any bulk, difficulty, or hardness. Trusted for their performance, these lightweight EVA slippers have maximum flexibility, dry quickly, and can be washed with soap and water to ensure hygiene.
Pros
- Lightweight
- Waterproof
- Flexible
- Slip-on design
- Breathability
- Easy to clean
- Shock absorption
Cons
- May shrink in the heat
"These slippers have kept my feet comfortable even when I wore them for extended hours. The lack of color choices was a letdown, but their modern design adds a nice touch. Plus, they have been durable enough for indoor and outdoor chores."
How To Choose The Right Pair Of Operating Room Shoes?
You may consider these points while selecting a pair of operating room shoes.
- Support and comfort: The shoes should provide sufficient support and comfort, and the soles should have adequate cushioning. If you have orthopedic medical conditions, then look for orthopedic shoes that allow smooth motion and reduce stress on the back, knees, and ankles.
- Size: Make sure you get the perfect shoe size for your feet, an essential factor that enables a comfortable walk. Before ordering, follow the instructions provided by the manufacturer.
- Ventilation: Shoes should provide breathability for the feet, keep the feet dry and sweat-free, and prevent the accumulation of odor-causing bacteria.
- Long-lasting: Since you need to wear these shoes every day for long hours, choose a pair of shoes made from durable materials. Also, check the stitching carefully to ensure it does not come apart with use.
- Protection: Doctors, nurses, and other medical staff may be exposed to radiation, anesthetic gasses, drugs, and potential spills. Therefore, consider buying protective footwear that can keep your feet safe from these hazards. The shoes should be slip-resistant, waterproof, thick, and strong.
- Style: Look for a convenient design, such as slip-on without laces, easy to remove and easy to clean. Fabric testing and fit assessment are equally significant when choosing the right pair for yourself.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. How do I avoid sizing issues when buying operating room shoes?
Check your actual size and then compare it with the manufacturer’s size range to avoid size issues.
2. Are slip-on shoes the best choice for surgeons?
Slip-on shoes are generally considered the best choice for surgeons. The design is comfortable to wear, and the shoes can provide support and cushion the feet. Besides, they are easy to clean and disinfect.
3. What should the operating room shoe be resistant to?
Shoes worn in the operating room should be resistant to water, slippery floors, and stains.
4. Do I need to wash my surgeon shoes after surgery?
Surgeon shoes, also known as surgical footwear, should be cleaned every day and disinfected to avoid the risk of infections.
5. What type of shoes do doctors wear in the operation theater?
Doctors generally prefer to wear closed shoes that are lightweight, comfortable, and easy to clean and disinfect.
6. Are shoe covers required in the operation theater?
Yes, medical staff put on disposable shoe covers over their shoes to avoid contamination, prevent friction between the shoes and the floor that might cause a spark, and cover the shoes from possible blood spills and stains.
7. Can surgeons wear open-toed shoes in an operation theater?
Surgeons do not prefer or are permitted to wear open-toed shoes in operation theaters to avoid any possible injuries to the wearer.
Why Trust MomJunction?
Comfortable shoes are essential for healthcare professionals who have to stand in the operating room for long hours. Understanding this, our team of reviewers and writers brings you a list of the best operating room shoes that are lightweight, flexible, waterproof, slip-resistant, easy to clean, and durable. This footwear assessment includes specifications of each product with its pros and cons and a detailed buyer’s guide given in the article to pick the shoes that effectively fight foot fatigue.
The Bottom Line
If you are a healthcare professional, you know the pain of standing for long periods in operation theaters. Thankfully, operating room shoes come to the rescue to help ease this pain. These are breathable and comfortable shoes that prevent blisters and shoe bites. Our top picks include the Sticky Non-Slip Nursing Shoes for Women, which are lightweight and waterproof. The Vangelo Professional Slip Resistant Clog is another excellent option offering removable cushioned insoles. You can also try the AKK Women’s Athletic Walking Shoes for their slip-on design and slip-resistant soles. When choosing the ideal pair of operating room shoes, consider the size, support, comfort, and ventilation so your feet don’t get stuffy when you’re in the operating room for long periods. Besides, ensure they are slip-resistant, waterproof, durable, easy to clean, and antimicrobial.
Infographic: Tips To Find The Right Shoe Size
Medical professionals are required to stand for long durations, making it essential to have the right shoes. Apart from the shoe type, the fit must also be correct to avoid long-term pain and inflammation. Follow the infographic below to get right-fitting shoes. Illustration: Momjunction Design Team
References
- 10 Tips For Finding The Right Shoes
https://www.health.harvard.edu/staying-healthy/10-tips-for-finding-the-right-shoes
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