Working in emergency medicine demands physical endurance – the extensive hours, constant movement and prolonged standing can strain providers’ bodies, particularly their feet, posture and back. Shoes worn in the emergency department should feature adequate padding and cushioning for comfort, slip-resistance, excellent support and breathability—and be easy-to-clean. In this blog, we’ll explore the best footwear options to ensure emergency medicine providers remain comfortable, supported and prepared for any situation.
1. Merrell Jungle Mocs
Merrell Jungle Mocs are a versatile option for healthcare professionals seeking a blend of style and functionality. Features and benefits of Merrell Jungle Mocs include:
- Casual Style: Merrell Jungle Mocs feature a slip-on design with a casual and understated appearance, making them suitable for both work and leisure.
- Sturdy Construction: Made from durable materials such as leather or suede, Merrell Jungle Mocs are built to withstand daily wear and tear in demanding environments.
- Shock Absorption: Merrell Jungle Mocs are equipped with cushioned midsoles that provide excellent shock absorption, reducing fatigue and strain on the feet during long shifts.
- Grippy Outsoles: Many Merrell Jungle Mocs feature rubber outsoles with traction patterns that offer reliable grip and stability on various surfaces.
Check out a wide range of Jungle Moc styles and colors here.
2. Brooks Ghost
Brooks is a popular brand among runners and healthcare professionals alike, offering athletic shoes with advanced cushioning and support features. As a result, Brooks Ghost line of running shoes are particularly suited to emergency medicine and other busy healthcare providers. Features and benefits of Brooks shoes include:
- Exceptional Cushioning: Brooks shoes are engineered with innovative cushioning technologies, such as DNA LOFT and Segmented Crash Pad, which provide superior shock absorption and comfort.
- Breathable Uppers: Brooks Ghost shoes feature breathable mesh uppers, allowing for optimal airflow and moisture management to keep feet cool and dry.
- Customizable Fit: With options for adjustable laces and supportive overlays, Brooks shoes offer a customizable fit to accommodate different foot shapes and sizes.
3. Hoka Bondi and Clifton
Hoka is known for its maximalist running shoes, which offer plush cushioning and stability ideal for healthcare professionals spending long hours on their feet. Hoka offers a number of emergency medicine-friendly styles on its website including the Bondi and Clifton models. Features and benefits of these Hoka shoes include:
- Maximal Cushioning: Hoka shoes feature thick midsoles with ample cushioning, providing exceptional shock absorption and comfort during extended periods of standing and walking.
- Meta-Rocker Technology: Bondi and Clifton models incorporate Meta-Rocker technology, which promotes a smooth and efficient stride, reducing fatigue and strain on the feet and legs.
- Lightweight Construction: Despite their maximal cushioning, Hoka shoes are surprisingly lightweight, allowing for nimble movements and agile performance in the emergency room.
Browse Hoka men’s healthcare shoes here and women’s shoes here.
4. Snibbs SpaceCloud Work Sneaker
Snibbs SpaceCloud Work Sneakers are designed specifically for professionals who are on their feet a lot in demanding work environments—like emergency medicine physicians. Features and benefits include:
- Relaxed Fit Design: Skechers Snibbs SpaceCloud Work Sneakers feature a relaxed fit design with ample room in the toe box for enhanced comfort and freedom of movement.
- Memory Foam Insole: These sneakers are equipped with memory foam insoles that contour to the shape of the feet, providing customized cushioning and support.
- Slip-Resistant Outsole: Snibbs SpaceCloud sneakers feature slip-resistant rubber out soles, offering reliable traction and stability on slippery surfaces.
- Durable Construction: Made from durable materials, Snibbs SpaceCloud sneakers are built to withstand the rigors of daily wear in challenging work environments.
Check out a range of Snibbs SpaceCloud work sneakers on this page.
5. OOFOS
OOFOS offers recovery footwear designed to provide maximum comfort and support for tired and achy feet during and after shifts. Their Oomg Sport and eeZee Low Shoes are highly rated by physicians and nurses. Features and benefits of OOFOS shoe include:
- OOfoam Technology: OOFOS shoes are made from proprietary OOfoam material, which absorbs 37% more impact than traditional footwear foam, providing superior cushioning and support.
- Arch Support: OOFOS shoes feature arch support and a contoured footbed, promoting proper foot alignment and reducing stress on the feet and joints.
- Shock Absorption: OOFOS shoes are designed to absorb shock and reduce pressure on the feet, making them ideal for professionals who spend long hours on their feet.
- Machine Washable: Many OOFOS styles are machine washable, allowing for easy cleaning and maintenance, ensuring freshness and hygiene even after repeated wear.
Browse OOFOS “Healthcare Heros” shoe picks here.
6. New Balance Work Shoes
New Balance is a renowned athletic footwear brand that offers a wide range of shoes suitable for healthcare professionals seeking comfort and support. Features and benefits of New Balance shoes include:
- Width Options: New Balance offers a variety of width options, including narrow, wide and extra-wide, ensuring a proper and comfortable fit for all individuals.
- Advanced Cushioning Technologies: Many New Balance styles feature innovative cushioning technologies, such as Fresh Foam and ABZORB, providing superior shock absorption and comfort.
- Stability and Motion Control: New Balance offers shoes with stability and motion control features, ideal for healthcare professionals who overpronate or require additional support for proper foot alignment.
Check out New Balance men’s work shoes and women’s work shoes.
7. Crocs
With their comfort, durability, and practical features, Crocs are a popular choice for emergency medicine physicians seeking footwear that can withstand the demands of their hectic shifts while keeping them comfortable and supported. Because many physicians and nurses opt for closed-hole Crocs when working in the ED, be sure to wear or other socks that will keep your feet dry given the non-breathable material. Features and benefits of Crocs include:
- Comfortable Fit: Crocs are made from Croslite™ material, which molds to the shape of the wearer’s feet for a custom fit and maximum comfort.
- Easy to Clean: Crocs are water-resistant and easy to clean, making them ideal for healthcare settings where spills and messes are common. Simply wipe them down with soap and water for quick and convenient maintenance.
- Slip-Resistant Soles: Crocs are designed with non-marking, slip-resistant outsoles, providing traction and stability on slippery surfaces commonly found in the emergency room.
Check out Crocs healthcare-oriented shoes.
8. Dansko
Dansko is a well-known brand among healthcare professionals, offering a wide range of clogs and shoes specifically designed for long hours on the feet. Dansko clogs are particularly helpful for surgeons and other healthcare providers who stand most of the day. For physicians on the move all day like emergency medicine doctors, Dansko offers healthcare sneakers as well. Features and benefits of Dansko shoes include:
- Excellent Arch Support: Dansko shoes are renowned for their superior arch support, which helps maintain proper foot alignment and reduces strain on the arches.
- Slip-Resistant Soles: Many Dansko styles feature slip-resistant outsoles, providing stability and traction on slippery surfaces commonly found in the emergency room.
- Durable Construction: Made from high-quality materials such as leather and synthetic fabrics, Dansko shoes are built to withstand the rigors of daily wear in healthcare settings.
Click here to view Dansko healthcare shoes.
Recap
Choosing the right footwear is vital for emergency medicine providers to navigate the fast-paced environment of the emergency department without discomfort. Factors like comfort, support, slip-resistance, and durability are essential when selecting shoes for long shifts. Whatever brand you choose, it’s highly recommended to get professionally fitted (at least the first time) to ensure that you find the shoe that works best for your feet and body. And one more bit of advice: make sure to buy performance socks to ensure that your feet stay comfy and dry on the job.
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