10 Best tennis shoes for nurses 2025 in the United States

The Brooks Women's Ghost 16 Neutral Running Shoe is designed for runners seeking a smooth and enjoyable ride, but it also boasts several features that could benefit nurses who spend long hours on their feet. Comfort is a key strength, thanks to its nitrogen-infused DNA Loft v3 cushioning, which provides lightweight, soft support suitable for walking and standing. The shoe’s engineered air mesh upper enhances breathability, ensuring that feet remain cool throughout the day. Additionally, the seamless, secure fit offered by the 3D Fit Print technology adds to the comfort and support, preventing distractions from foot pain or discomfort.

Durability is another positive aspect, with the Roadtack rubber outsole being designed for longevity and lightweight performance. This shoe is also certified carbon neutral and has received acceptance from the APMA, making it a reliable and health-conscious choice. However, despite its strengths, the shoe may have some drawbacks for nurses. The weight, at 1.5 pounds, might be slightly heavier than some might prefer for all-day wear. Also, while the shoe offers good traction with its rubber outsole, it’s primarily designed for road running, which may not entirely translate to slip resistance on various hospital floors.

The ankle strap shaft height might not provide the ankle support that some nurses might need during long shifts. In summary, the Brooks Women's Ghost 16 could be a solid choice for nurses prioritizing comfort, breathability, and durability, though they should consider the potential trade-offs in weight and slip resistance for their specific work environment.

The adidas Women's Grand Court 2.0 tennis shoe offers a comfortable and secure fit, which is important for nurses who spend long hours on their feet. Its Cloudfoam Comfort sockliner provides good cushioning and impact absorption, helping reduce foot and joint strain during extended shifts. The synthetic leather upper ensures decent durability and a sleek look, although it might not be as breathable as mesh alternatives, so feet may feel warmer over long periods.

The rubber outsole delivers solid traction, which can help prevent slips on various floor surfaces common in healthcare settings. While the shoe is lightweight enough to avoid feeling bulky, it has a low-top design and flat heel, offering moderate ankle support but less than some specialized nursing shoes with reinforced support. The lace-up closure allows for a customizable fit, which can reduce foot fatigue.

This shoe effectively combines style and basic functionality, although it may not fully meet the needs of those prioritizing breathability and enhanced slip resistance for nursing work.

The Skechers Women's Uno-Stand on Air sneaker is designed with comfort in mind, featuring an Air-Cooled Memory Foam insole that cushions your feet throughout long shifts. The visible air-cushioned midsole adds extra shock absorption, which helps reduce foot fatigue. The shoe offers moderate support with a hidden 1-inch wedge heel, providing a stable fit without compromising comfort. Its flexible rubber outsole improves grip, which is helpful for slip resistance on hospital floors.

The smooth synthetic 'durabuck' upper is perforated, allowing some breathability, though it may not be as airy as mesh materials used in other shoes. The fit is described as a wedge style, which might feel snug for some, so trying them on first is recommended. These sneakers are relatively lightweight, making them easier to wear for extended periods.

This sneaker balances comfort, decent support, and slip resistance—key features for nurses needing reliable footwear. However, if maximum breathability or highly specialized arch support is a priority, you might want to explore other options.