What Shoes to Wear With Scrubs: A Practical Guide for Nurses

The right shoes matter as much as the right scrubs. You may walk miles in a single shift, so the pair you choose affects how your feet, knees and back feel by the end of the day. Here is what to look for, and how to make your shoes work with your scrubs and your dress code.

Start with your dress code

Many hospitals and practices set rules for footwear, so check yours before you shop. Common rules include a closed toe and closed heel, non-porous material that wipes clean, and sometimes a set color such as black, white or a neutral. If you are a student, your program may have its own rules for clinicals.

What to look for in nurse and medical shoes

• Support: a firm heel and good arch support help you stay comfortable on long shifts.
• Cushioning: a cushioned footbed softens the impact of hours on hard hospital floors.
• Slip resistance: floors in healthcare settings can be wet, so a slip-resistant sole is a smart choice.
• Easy to clean: a smooth, wipeable upper makes it simple to keep your shoes clean between shifts.
• The right fit: feet often swell over a long shift, so leave a little room and try shoes on later in the day when you can.

Clogs or sneakers?

Both are common with scrubs. Clogs are easy to slip on and off and are often simple to wipe clean. Athletic-style shoes tend to feel lighter and more flexible. The best choice is the one that fits your foot, your role and your workplace rules, so it is worth trying both styles on.

What color shoes go with scrubs?

Neutral shoes in black, white or gray go with almost any scrub color, which makes them the easiest everyday choice. If your dress code allows it, you can also match your shoes to your scrubs, or pick a pop of color that coordinates with a navy, ceil blue or royal blue set. When in doubt, a neutral pair you can wear with every set in your rotation is the most practical place to start.

Do not forget your socks

Many nurses pair their shoes with compression socks, which are designed to support circulation in the legs during long hours on your feet. Both of our stores carry compression socks alongside our footwear.

Try shoes on at ScrubHaven

Both ScrubHaven stores carry supportive footwear from Anywear, so you can try shoes on in person and match them to your scrubs in one trip. See our nurse shoes and medical footwear page for details, and ask our staff for help finding a comfortable fit.

Scrub Tops | Scrub Pants | Scrub Jackets | Underscrubs | Lab Coats

Visit us in Philadelphia or Blackwood, NJ

ScrubHaven Philadelphia
9357 Krewstown Road, Philadelphia, PA 19115
Monday to Friday 9am to 9pm, Saturday and Sunday 10am to 8pm
Get directions

ScrubHaven Blackwood, NJ
5301 Route 42, Blackwood, NJ 08012
Open 10am to 7pm, 7 days a week
Get directions

Call either store at (215) 552-9765. Both stores are closed on Thanksgiving Day and Christmas Day.