Why Nurses Need the Right Trainers
If you're a nurse, healthcare assistant, or care worker in the UK, you already know the toll your job takes on your feet. Research shows that healthcare workers walk between 4 to 5 miles during a single shift — often on hard hospital flooring that offers zero forgiveness.
The wrong shoes don't just cause discomfort. They lead to plantar fasciitis, back pain, and fatigue that follows you home after every shift. The right trainers, however, can genuinely transform how you feel at work.
After researching what nurses actually recommend to each other (and what podiatrists suggest), we've put together this guide to the best trainers for nurses in the UK for 2025.
What to Look for in Nursing Trainers
Before we get to the recommendations, here's what separates good nursing shoes from great ones:
Slip resistance — Hospital floors get wet. Spills happen. Look for shoes marked "SR" (slip-resistant) with rubber outsoles designed for grip on tiles and wet surfaces.
Cushioning — You need responsive cushioning that absorbs impact with each step. Memory foam insoles and EVA midsoles help reduce strain on your joints.
Arch support — A supportive arch prevents pain and fatigue. Look for shoes with a deep heel cup for stability and built-in arch support.
Easy to clean — Healthcare environments are messy. Leather or synthetic uppers that wipe clean are essential.
Lightweight — You're already carrying equipment and on your feet for 12 hours. Your shoes shouldn't add to the burden.
Wide toe box — Your feet will swell during long shifts. Trainers with a roomy toe box accommodate this without pinching.
Best Trainers for Nurses UK 2025
1. Skechers Work Squad SR — Best Overall
Price: From £48.14
The Skechers Work Squad SR is the trainer nurses recommend to each other more than any other. It's specifically designed for people who spend all day on their feet in demanding environments.
The slip-resistant rubber outsole provides genuine grip on wet floors — this isn't marketing speak, it's been tested to meet occupational standards. The memory foam insole moulds to your foot shape over time, providing customised cushioning that improves the more you wear them.
At under £50, it's also one of the most affordable options that actually delivers on comfort. The all-black design meets most NHS dress codes without any issues.
Why nurses love it: Affordable, genuinely slip-resistant, memory foam comfort, easy to clean, meets dress codes.
2. Skechers Work Arch Fit SR — Best for Arch Support
Price: From £79.20
If you've experienced plantar fasciitis or have high arches, the Arch Fit range is worth the extra investment. Skechers developed the Arch Fit system with podiatrists, and it shows.
The removable insole is podiatrist-certified and designed to provide the support your arches actually need — not a one-size-fits-all approach. The slip-resistant outsole is identical to the Squad SR, so you're not sacrificing safety for comfort.
Multiple nurses with chronic foot pain have reported that switching to Arch Fit trainers significantly reduced their discomfort during and after shifts.
Why nurses love it: Podiatrist-designed arch support, reduces foot pain, slip-resistant, worth the investment for problem feet.
→ Shop Skechers Work Arch Fit SR
3. Skechers Work Nampa Wyola SR — Best Budget Option
Price: From £53.00
The Nampa Wyola offers the core features you need — slip resistance, memory foam, and a professional look — at a price point that works for newly qualified nurses or those replacing worn-out shoes on a budget.
It's slightly less cushioned than the Squad or Arch Fit, but for lighter shifts or if you're not prone to foot problems, it's an excellent entry point into proper work footwear.
Why nurses love it: Affordable, all the essentials, clean professional look.
→ Shop Skechers Work Nampa Wyola SR
4. Skechers Slip-ins — Best for Convenience
Price: From £65.00
The Slip-ins range has become hugely popular with nurses for one simple reason: you can get them on and off without bending down or using your hands.
When you're rushing to start a shift or exhausted at the end of one, not having to tie laces is a genuine quality-of-life improvement. The Heel Pillow technology at the back of the shoe allows your foot to slide in effortlessly while still providing a secure fit.
These are available in both casual and work-specific versions — make sure you choose the SR (slip-resistant) option if your ward has strict footwear policies.
Why nurses love it: Hands-free entry, no laces to tie, secure fit, available in slip-resistant versions.
5. Skechers Work Soft Stride — Best for Maximum Cushioning
Price: From £72.21
For nurses who prioritise cushioning above all else, the Soft Stride delivers the plushest underfoot experience in the Skechers Work range.
The memory foam layer is thicker than standard models, and the midsole provides additional shock absorption. If you're working in areas that require a lot of walking (A&E, large wards, community nursing), the extra cushioning makes a noticeable difference by hour ten of your shift.
Why nurses love it: Maximum cushioning, ideal for high-walking shifts, slip-resistant, durable construction.
→ Shop Skechers Work Soft Stride
How to Choose the Right Size
Your nursing trainers should fit differently to your everyday shoes:
Go half a size up. Your feet swell during long shifts, especially towards the end. A little extra room in the toe box prevents discomfort when this happens.
Try them on in the afternoon. If you're buying in-store, shop later in the day when your feet are naturally more swollen — this mimics how they'll feel during a shift.
Wear your work socks. The socks you wear to work are likely thicker than everyday socks. Make sure you're testing with the right ones.
Walk around properly. Don't just stand in them — walk around for at least five minutes to check for any rubbing or pressure points.
Caring for Your Nursing Trainers
To get the most life out of your work shoes:
Rotate pairs if possible. Having two pairs and alternating them allows each to fully dry out between shifts, extending their lifespan and keeping them fresher.
Clean them regularly. Wipe down the uppers after each shift with antibacterial wipes. For deeper cleaning, use a damp cloth with mild soap.
Replace the insoles. Memory foam insoles compress over time. Replacing them every 3-6 months can revive an otherwise comfortable shoe.
Know when to replace. Most nursing trainers last 300-500 miles of walking. If you're working full-time, that's roughly 6-12 months. When the cushioning feels flat or the outsole is worn smooth, it's time for new ones.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I wear regular trainers for nursing?
Technically yes, but it's not recommended. Regular trainers lack slip-resistant outsoles, which is a genuine safety issue on hospital floors. They also typically don't have the cushioning and support needed for 12-hour shifts. Most NHS trusts have footwear policies that require enclosed, professional-looking shoes — fashion trainers often don't meet these requirements.
Are Skechers good for nurses?
Skechers Work range is consistently rated as one of the best options for nurses in the UK. The combination of memory foam comfort, slip-resistant outsoles, and affordable pricing makes them the go-to choice for healthcare workers. The brand specifically designs their Work line for occupational use, which shows in the construction.
How much should I spend on nursing shoes?
Expect to spend £50-100 for quality nursing trainers. Going cheaper often means sacrificing slip resistance or cushioning — both of which you'll regret during a busy shift. Consider it an investment in your health; the cost of treating foot problems far exceeds the price of proper footwear.
Do I need steel toe caps for nursing?
Generally no. Steel toe caps add weight and are typically only required in specific environments like certain maintenance roles. Standard nursing roles don't require them, and they can make shoes less comfortable for long shifts. Check your trust's specific requirements if you're unsure.
Ready to Find Your Perfect Pair?
Your feet carry you through every shift — they deserve proper support. Whether you choose the bestselling Squad SR, the arch-supporting Arch Fit, or the convenient Slip-ins, investing in proper nursing trainers will make a genuine difference to how you feel at work.
→ Shop All Skechers at Shuperb
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