11 Best Operating Room Shoes In 2024

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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.

In This Article

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.

Package Dimensions: ‎ 10.24 x 9.25 x 4.49 inches | Weight: 14.07 Ounces

Pros

  • Slip-resistant outsole
  • Waterproof
  • Lightweight
  • Easy to clean
  • Durable
  • Machine washable
  • Enclosed toe design

Cons

  • May shrink in the heat

Our Reviewer's Experience

"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."


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Why We Think It's Worth Buying

With over 45,941 reviews on Amazon, this product is a winner.

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.

Package Dimensions: ‎ 11.6 x 6.7 x 4.3 inches | Weight: 2.56 Pounds

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

Our Reviewer's Experience

"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."


protip_icon Quick tip
For a better hygienic experience, opt for nursing clogs that can be washed with soapy water, either with the hands or in the washing machine.

3. Best Shock-Absorbing:Sticky Non-Slip Nursing Shoes for Women

star-ratingstar-ratingstar-ratingstar-ratingstar-rating
4.1
Sticky Non-Slip Nursing Shoes for Women Image: Sticky
worth-buy-icon

Why We Think It's Worth Buying

It's no wonder that this quality product has earned over 8,981 positive reviews on Amazon.

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.

Material: Thermoplastic Rubber | Product Dimensions: ‎ 8.66 x 7.09 x 3.54 inches | Weught: 1.04 Pounds

Pros

  • Lightweight
  • Slip-resistant outsole
  • Absorb shock
  • 90-day warranty
  • Waterproof

Cons

  • May not provide enough arch support

Our Reviewer's Experience

"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
Reviews45,9412338,981
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.

Product Dimensions: ‎ 5 x 5 x 5 inches | Weight: 6.2 Ounces

Pros

  • Slip-resistant
  • Removable antimicrobial-treated insole
  • Breathable
  • Lightweight
  • Wipe clean
  • Flexible
  • Machine washable

Cons

  • May not be suitable for wide feet

Our Reviewer's Experience

"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."


protip_icon Pro Tip
Measure both feet from the tip of the longest toe to the end of the heel and match the measurements with the shoe-size chart given by the manufacturer to get the accurate-fit shoes.

5. Natural Uniforms M&M Women’s Nursing Clogs

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3.8
Natural Uniforms M&M Women's Nursing Clogs Image: Natural Uniforms

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.

Package Dimensions: ‎ 12.6 x 8.9 x 2.7 inches | Weight: 14.4 Ounces

Pros

  • Lightweight
  • Flexible
  • High arch
  • Low heel collar
  • Adjustable heel strap
  • Waterproof
  • Slip-resistant
  • Machine washable

Cons

  • May not be true to size
Our Reviewer's Experience

"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.

Color: Black-pink | Package Dimensions : 14.09 x 8.46 x 4.25 inches | Weight:11.99 Ounces

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

Our Reviewer's Experience

"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."


protip_icon Did you know?
Measuring your feet in the afternoon can help better assess your foot size, as the feet tend to expand a bit during the day and are slightly bigger than they are in the mornings (1).

7. Best Antimicrobial:Vangelo Professional Slip Resistant Clog

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3.9
Vangelo Professional Slip Resistant Clog Image: Vangelo
worth-buy-icon

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.

Color: Black: Package Dimensions: ‎ 11.69 x 9.09 x 4.29 inches | Weight: 1.55 Pounds

Pros

  • Slip-resistant outsole
  • Antimicrobial
  • Easy to clean
  • Waterproof
  • Removable ortho lite insole
  • Lightweight shoes

Cons

  • May not have ventilation holes
My Personal Experience

"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
Our Reviewer's Experience

"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
Our Reviewer's Experience

"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
Our Tester's Experience

"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

*The prices provided in this article are based on the latest available information. However, they may vary due to changes in pricing by the seller and/or promotional offers.

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
Our Reviewer's Experience

"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.

  1. 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.
  2. 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.
  3. Ventilation: Shoes should provide breathability for the feet, keep the feet dry and sweat-free, and prevent the accumulation of odor-causing bacteria.
  4. 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.
  5. 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.
  6. 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.

How To Find The Correct Shoe Fit?

Illustration: Momjunction Design Team

References

MomJunction's articles are written after analyzing the research works of expert authors and institutions. Our references consist of resources established by authorities in their respective fields. You can learn more about the authenticity of the information we present in our editorial policy.
  1. 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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Stephanie Bligh is a perioperative registered nurse and aesthetic nurse with a graduate diploma in perioperative nursing. She is also a well-known fitness and motivational influencer. With her passion for patient care and love for fitness, Stephanie inspires others through her stories and messages.

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Poulami Nag
Poulami NagMA, PG Dip.
Poulami is an associate editor at MomJunction. She did her MA in English from Miranda House, University of Delhi and has qualified UGC-NET. She also holds a PG diploma in Editing and Publishing from Jadavpur University. Her journey as a content writer began in 2017 and since then, Poulami has garnered diverse interests along the way.

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Wedetso Chirhah
Wedetso ChirhahMA English
Wedetso Chirhah holds a masters degree in English Literature from Mangalore University and has over 13 years of experience in content. He has written content for more than 15 B2B websites and edited school books before joining MomJunction as an editor.

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Deyasini Biswas
Deyasini BiswasBA English (Hons), Diploma in Advanced Fashion Styling
Deyasini holds a bachelor's honors degree in English Literature from Jadavpur University and a postgraduate diploma in Advanced Fashion Styling from the London College of Style. She has three years of experience in the fashion industry, working as an editorial and product stylist, following which she has chosen to return to her roots in the language arts as a commerce content writer at MomJunction.

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