Nurses spend many long hours standing, walking, or running about while on their tour of duty. They have stayed on longer shifts and have had more hectic schedules than ever with the current global health crisis. For this, a reliable and comfortable pair of shoes can at least ease our hospital heroes' tired feet. Lucky enough, Nike has a wide range of options to showcase the best Nike shoes for nurses.
Why is Nike Such a Great Brand of Shoes for Nurses?
Nike is a good and trusted brand when it comes to shoes, not only for nurses but for everyone! They have excellently designed athletic and non-athletic shoes for a wide range of activities and foot types. Nike is a brand that not only excels in design but also in providing optimal comfort and durability. Nurses need lightweight and cushioned athletic shoes for hospital duties, and Nike has it covered for you.
How to Choose the Right Nike Shoes for Nurses and What to Look for
As a nurse, you can't just put on any shoes for work. Your work environment requires more in terms of footwear. Choosing cheap footwear may leave your feet sore, swollen, and tired easily midway through your shift. Nike shoes offer a lot in terms of comfort to avoid the aches and pains of long hours in the hospital.
Also, the hospital setting has occupational hazards like wet or slippery floors that may cause accidental falls. Hospitals want to prevent this, and some even give shoe allowances to their nurses for them to purchase the right shoes for nursing work.
When in doubt, you can speak with a podiatrist (foot doctor). They may be able to help you determine the right type of shoes based on your foot type and shape – whether flat, normal, or arched.
When it comes to picking the right pair of Nike shoes for nurses, you have to consider the following qualities:
1. Slip Resistance
Hospital floors can become slippery at times. Wearing non-slip footwear can prevent you from accidental falls. Look for shoes with rubber soles for better traction. You can also opt for added protection by getting shoe grips.
2. Comfortable Fit
Wearing a comfortable pair of shoes will help you perform your functions well. Try to get shoes that fit comfortably and suited to your feet. For shoes that are not true to size, you may order one size or at least half a size higher, especially if you are going to wear socks with them.
3. Support and Cushioning
As a nurse, you may already know that arch support and cushioning are not only important to your feet but also for posture. It can also prevent leg and back pain problems from prolonged standing. The right cushioning will provide comfort and absorb the impact of walking and running.
4. Durability
When purchasing nursing shoes, always keep durability in mind. Never go for shoes that may only last for a few months. Make sure that you are getting great field shoes with high ratings on durability. Keep in mind that you may be using it as everyday footwear, so it should endure the wear and tear factor.
5. Color
The hospital is a venue for all sorts of unwanted events like patients vomiting, bleeding, etc. Nurses are among the first people who attend to these incidents, and their shoes are not spared either. It is smarter to go for colors like black, blue, and other dark colors to conceal dirt so you're able to wear your shoes for longer.
6. Materials
Mesh shoes are more lightweight and breathable than leather shoes. The advantage of all-mesh upper shoes is that even with thick socks, you will still feel the air between your toes.
The type of shoes you need may also depend on where your designation as a nurse. If you spend most of your working time at your desk, mesh shoes will work great for you. But if you are an ER or OR nurse, leather shoes may be the best option for you as it can be easily wiped clean.
All these different elements come into play when looking for the best nursing shoes. But before rushing into buying a pair, you should also refer to the hospital's dress code policy as they may not allow loud colors, patterns, or even laced footwear.
The 8 Best Nike Shoes For Nurses
We know that shopping for the best Nike shoes for nurses can be overwhelming. That is why we are here to help you narrow down your selection.
In this guide, we've listed the top Nike shoes for nurses that are comfortable and fit for the heavy demands of your profession. Some of the Nike shoes that we included in our list are available in both men's and women's. Let's start!
1. Nike Women's Tanjun Shoes
Nike Women's Tanjun shoes may look so simple, yet this footwear packs Nike's latest technology when it comes to its features. Its design features an aesthetically appealing all-mesh upper and outsoles that are highly arched and cushioned. This type of cushioning is ideal for nurses who work twelve-hour shifts and beyond.
The arched heel provides support and balance steps, therefore it's suitable for those with flat feet. It supports and distributes the body's weight evenly with its injection-molded Phylon midsoles.
The outsole also has adequate grip and won't give squeaks when walking, running, or making quick turns. The mesh fabric of these Nike shoes and the rubber exterior is easy to clean and maintain.
These shoes may look simple, but with over 40 color combination options, these comfortable shoes will still make you stand out among fellow health workers. All these features make it easy for the Tanjun to be the best Nike shoes for female nurses.
2. Pegasus 37 Nike Air Zoom Running Shoes
The Pegasus 37 is designed and streamlined to be among Nike's best running shoes. Yet, we also think that these Nike shoes can fit well as a reliable shoe for nurses too.
The entire running shoe is wrapped in an engineered breathable mesh with more perforations at the upper high-heat areas to make it more breathable. This feature makes it ideal for nurses who work long hours. This ventilated running shoe is a top choice for breathability.
The single-mesh design of this Nike running shoe also gives it that clean look that is ideal for use even with your hospital scrubs or uniform. The mesh material of this footwear allows ventilation to avoid creating a damp environment and prevent foot odor and problems.
Nike Air Zoom Pegasus 37 makes a comfortable snug feel around your midsole with the tongue sewed into a mesh bootie. Nike slimmed down the shoe's tongue to trim-off weight from the shoe. These features are great for nurses who are always moving from place to place.
Pegasus 37 uses straps instead of Nike's Flywire technology to secure the feet in place. These straps are also helpful in relieving pressure in the feet and is a common problem among nurses. A unique feature of Nike Air Zoom Pegasus 37 is the heel collar which is shaped to flare away from your Achilles tendon to avoid rubbing on your heels. This running shoe is perfect for nurses who are continually standing or moving around.
Pegasus 37's full-length Air Zoom and cushioned midsole features will give you that extra comfort. With all the mentioned features above, it easily passes as the best Nike running shoes for nurses. It also comes in a variety of colorways to match your scrubs or uniforms. Overall, these classic and neutral shoes are perfect for cruising around work and even for everyday workouts.
3. Nike Air Zoom Vomero 14
Nike Vomero 14 is a staple shoe when it comes to everyday walking or running activities. These shoes may easily top your list when you are looking for both cushioning and traction. These Nike shoes have lots of soft cushioning to give you comfortable steps on any ground type. It has a responsive sole that adjusts to any kind of surface, and it can be great for outdoor activities too.
The Vomero 14 fits true to size and has a wide toe-box space and forefoot room. This feature provides better ventilation as there is enough room for feet to breathe. The heel pods also do a great job of locking the heel in for a comfortable fit.
Like the Pegasus 37, it also has a single-piece mesh knit that gives it a sleek appearance. The rearfoot also provides ample air max cushioning support. This soft cushioning can be comfortable in constant standing positions, running, and gym workouts. The air chamber is positioned directly beneath your foot so that you won't feel depressions forming beneath your foot's pressure points.
Aesthetically, it can be the best looking running shoes you'll find. It has a streamlined feel and looks visually attractive with the engineered mesh.
4. Nike Cheer Unite Sneakers
Nike Women's Cheer Unite can easily be your top nursing shoe choice. Some hospitals or nursing facilities might still require nurses to wear white shoes. If yours does, this may be a great shoe choice for you.
The iconic white color will also perfectly match your uniform or scrubs. The lightly padded tongue is securely lace-locked for a snug fit when your work requires you some fast-moving actions.
However, unlike other sneakers, Nike Women's Cheer Unite is a bit narrower and may be too snug for those with wider feet. You may need to order a half-size up higher for this concern. Inside the shoes are breathable fabric linings for ventilation and to keep away foot odor problems during long hours of use.
The Cheer Unite also has light air cushioned foamed insoles to help you bounce lightly and comfortably. It also has durable non-marking rubber outsoles with finger flex grooves ergonomically designed to cover traction on multiple surfaces. It will also make sure that you won't slip when accidentally running into wet surfaces inside the hospital.
The sturdy rubber soles are designed to withstand rigorous everyday activities and can also be great for indoor and outdoor use. The flexibility of these shoes is perfect for nurses who make a range of motions like bending or squatting.
These features will give your money value as you won't be buying replacements regularly.
Its aesthetic design and durable synthetic leather material also make it a top shoe choice for nurses. The fully synthetic leather material is also easy to clean and maintain. You can even apply some shoe repellant on them for added protection from spills. These sneakers are not only best for cheerleaders but also for nurses who deserve to be cheered and appreciated.
5. Nike Women's Training Shoe - Free Metcon 2
One of Nike's Metcon 2's asset is flexibility. As you know, nurses do a lot of squats, bends, runs, or whatever their job may call for at any given moment when attending to a patient. These lightweight shoes are best suited for nurses who are always moving or on-the-go.
Breathable mesh material covers the toe area. This feature is perfect for nurses who often work long shifts. Better breathability prevents the build-up of sweat and bacteria.
Nurses are always looking for that comfort, and this shoe offers a great deal of it. It also combines flexibility with durability. It optimizes Nike's Free running technology that means it replicates the barefoot running experience closely.
Overall, the Nike Metcon 2 shoe is an ideal shoe for training, gym workouts, everyday walks, and an appreciable nursing shoe as well.
6. Nike React Infinity Flyknit
Nike React Infinity Flyknit is the best for everyday use for nurses. If comfort is the main attribute you are looking for, these shoes could be perfect for you. The bouncy React foam on the midsoles gives your underfoot comfort at its best. This deep Air max cushioning also loads your weight on the midsole giving your steps a nice bounce.
Another factor that makes these air max shoes comfortable to wear is the upper fit of the shoes. It features a just-right space for the forefoot and ample toe-box space. And even if you spend long hours wearing these shoes, your feet will feel less tired because of the air max-cushioning factor.
The rubber outsoles have large flex grooves that are designed for better traction. These articulated outsoles also do an excellent job in resisting wear and tear.
These shoes are also pitched to reduce injuries as it holds your feet in the right position. The heel counter and the collar locks your feet in the proper position, so it's almost impossible to make a misstep.
Unlike other running shoes, the React Infinity is best for long slow runs and even for leisurely walks. It has an improved three-layer mesh knit upper and a broader stable base platform. Its lightness and comfortability are what make these great work shoes for nurses. The design is also classic yet elegant, which suitably fits your uniform and the work environment.
7. Nike Men's Lunar Fingertrap
Nike Lunar Fingertrap is probably the best Nike shoes for male nurses. Not only because of the appealing style but because it provides long hours of maximum comfort.
It is lightweight, highly breathable, and has a comfortable fit that most male nurses are looking for in a shoe. With its fully synthetic upper and its rugged rubber soles, these shoes are durable enough to endure abuse from long working hours.
The intertwined bands around the midsole area create a snug but comfortable fit. This feature also allows the shoes to adapt to your expanding feet towards the end of the day. This feature compresses the feet to reduce discomfort and maintain blood flow.
The inner mesh part allows breathability to keep your feet dry. Extended wear does not also cause the ankle to chafe or feel sore. This feature is ideal for nurses who usually work long and busy shift schedules.
The sole supports individuals of different foot types and is also true to its size. The outsole of these shoes are made with rubber and features deep grooves for traction. However, its grips are not that resistant to wet surfaces, so we still advise you to take caution.
8. Nike's Court Lite Tennis Shoes
Nike Court Lite, in our opinion, is easily the best Nike tennis shoes for nurses. Its best features are being lightweight, comfortable, and provide great traction. The thick leather material is designed to be abrasion-resistant and withstand harsh weather conditions.
This makes it perfect for the nursing profession which requires you to report to work even through severe weather conditions.
Like the Tanjun, it also has injection-molded Phylon midsoles for even bodyweight distribution. It also has a thick rubber outsole that is rigid enough to withstand optimum pressure from running to and fro.
The sole stays firm even with frequent friction from general daily use or for actual outdoor tennis use. Even with the leather material, it still provides enough ventilation even on hot sunny days making it a suitable working shoe for nurses.
Conclusion
We know that finding the right shoe may take some time and some experimenting. We have provided the best options to narrow that search a bit. Still, it is always important to read up more on the shoes you are choosing.
Winner
For us, the best Nike shoe for nurses is Nike Tanjun. The lightweight construction is unbelievable. In the long run, it can be the best investment you can make for footwear.
It has a secure and excellent grip that is ideal for use in fast-paced settings like hospitals. So, you won't worry that it will slip off your feet anytime. It also has a pocket-friendlier price than the other models included in our line-up.
Aside from the black color, it is also available in many attractive colors that are suitable for use in the hospital environment.
Another Worthy Mention That Didn't Make the List
Another great option worth checking for could be the Nike Downshifter 7 if you want a mix of fashion and comfort. Nike Downshifter 7 is known for its enhanced traction which is ideal in your profession as a nurse.
Finding a comfortable all-around shoe will also save you money as you do not need to purchase another one for other athletic purposes. But remember that you still need to own at least two or three pairs of working shoes just in case. Your shoes can either make or break your performance, so choose wisely. We hope that this guide has helped you in that journey of finding the best Nike shoes for nurses.