9 Best Shoes For Surgeons (Review) In 2022

- 1. Birkenstock Professional Profi Birki Slip Resistant Work Shoe
- 2. Dansko Women's Professional Clogs
- 3. Crocs Men's and Women's On The Clock Work Slip Resistant Work Shoe
- 4. DDTX Slip Oil Resistant Slip-on Men’s Work Shoes
- 5. Merrell's Men's Encore Gust Slip-On Shoe
- 6. Crocs Men's and Women's Specialist II Clog
- 7. Skechers for Work Men's Balder Slip Resistant Work Clog
- 8. Merrell's Women's Encore Q2 Slide LTR Climbing Shoe
- 9. Crocs Bistro Clog
Sure they need years of med school and practice to excel in their profession. But another thing surgeons can’t do without is a sturdy and comfortable pair of shoes. For the most part, these medical heroes are on their feet. They’re performing hours of surgery, moving from one end of the hospital to another. As much as they have healing hands, their feet do a lot of work too.
If we really go into the list of characteristics shoes for a surgeon should have, it may take a while. What we have done is a lot simpler. Below is a compilation of some of the best shoes suitable for surgeons. Browse through, and you’re sure to find a perfect fit.
The Best Shoe For Surgeons
1. Birkenstock Professional Profi Birki Slip Resistant Work Shoe

Alpro foam sole and footbed
Has a raised heel
Fitted with an anatomically molded footbed
Has a microfiber insole
Being in the ward is hectic enough without having to walk around in uncomfortable shoes. The fast-paced and tasking life of a surgeon requires the most practical footwear out there. So, if you’re looking for something that has comfort at its core, then the Birkenstock Professional Unisex Profi Birki Slip Resistant Work Shoe is a viable choice.
Just looking at this shoe reveals a design that is both functional and as comfortable as they come. For the most part, the shoe has an Alpro foam construction. When you couple this with the removable Alpro foam contoured footbed, you pretty much have a recipe for comfort. In the case that you aren’t entirely comfortable with the Alpro foam footbed, it’s not just removable; it’s also replaceable. So, those hours of standing and moving about will not leave you feeling like your feet got run over by a bus.
What you’ll like even more is the fact that all these components are machine washable. How convenient is that? Making it an even better product is the fact that it’s utterly slip-resistant on most surfaces. It could be a dry, oily, or wet surface, but it’s no match for these surgeon shoes. For more products like this, check out our non-slip shoes guide.
Good value for money
Takes a load off the back
Durable
The break-in period is gruesome
A bit on the noisy side
Collects debris too easily
2. Dansko Women’s Professional Clogs

Made completely of leather
Fitted with a polyurethane sole
Equipped with a padded instep collar
Has a wide heel strike
When you’re a surgeon, long hours on your feet are a given. You can either suffer through endless streams of inefficient shoes or get yourself a pair of Dansko Women’s Professional Clogs. These clogs are mostly made of leather complemented by a sturdy synthetic sole. More on the sole, it’s made of polyurethane and is designed to reduce the stress of moving about.
Speaking of design, this pair of shoes sports a smart and professional look. So, you don’t have to choose between comfort and aesthetics. Best believe that you can have the best of both worlds with these stylish clogs. If you are interested in this type of shoes, check out our guide on shoes for nurses.
It’s not just a pretty face, though; there’s a whole lot of functionality here and then some.
You’ll also like the stellar arch support that this pair of shoes offer, as this further translates to additional comfort. Add to that the reinforced toe box, and you’re in for a painless shift. There’s a lot of room in there to wiggle your toes, so buns and blisters are kept at bay.
Has a nice, roomy toe box for comfort
Durability is assured
Variety of colors available
A bit on the pricey side
Can cause ankle rolls
Takes time to break-in
3. Crocs Men’s and Women’s On The Clock Work Slip Resistant Work Shoe

Fitted with a deeply cushioned footbed
Features an enclosed toe and heel
Has a goofy modern design
The sole has a non-slip traction
It wouldn’t be a compilation of comfortable shoes for surgeons if Crocs weren’t on here. They are the ultimate comfortable pair of shoes for anyone.
So, whether you are a barista, a line cook, or in this case a surgeon, then the Crocs Men’s and Women’s On The Clock Work Slip Resistant Work Shoe is meant for you. Think of this as a significant step up from the Crocs Classic Clog. In fact, it’s more like the Crocs Classic Clog on steroids when it comes to the comfort offered. Even better is the fact that these are quite a workplace friendly. Their all-around design features an enclosed toe and heel make for a more professional look. As a bonus, you’ll not get any workplace fluids spilled on your toes.
Furthermore, these pair of shoes are entirely slip-resistant, which will undoubtedly come in handy in a medical setting. This is thanks to the slip-resistant treads incorporated into its all-around design. So, the risk of falling is completely taken out of the equation with these babies. You’ll also like the addition of a Croslite foam coupled with an extremely cushioned footbed, which contributes a whole lot to the comfort promised here.
Incredibly easy to clean
Good value for money
No slipping involved
They are not breathable
Sizing is an issue
Not great for people with narrow heels
4. DDTX Slip Oil Resistant Slip-on Men’s Work Shoes

Fitted with a microfiber leather upper
Fitted with a breathable mesh lining
Has a leather sole
Multi-functional
They may not look like much, but boy do they offer up a whole lot of comfort. You have to agree that when it comes to how your feet feel after a long shift, what your shoes look like is the least of your concerns. All in all, the DDTX Slip Oil Resistant Slip-on Men’s Work Shoes comprise a microfiber leather upper. This is coupled with a rubber sole and so much more. You are guaranteed comfort and functionality with this option, most especially since this is not their first rodeo.
For over 10 years now, they have been involved in the research, manufacturing, and production of work shoes. This is evident in just about every aspect of these highly efficient shoes. You’ll also be pleased to know that the lightweight, yet flexible midsole here features quite a bit of cushioning. That contributes to the comfort you’ll feel once you put on a pair of these babies.
For even more cushioning, there’s a removable insole that features open insole foam cushioning. Thanks to this nifty feature, your underfoot will get all the support and comfort needed to get you through your shifts. Altogether, this is one purchase that’s truly worth it.
Lightweight and comfortable
Easy to break-in
Sizing is pretty accurate
Not quite aesthetically pleasing
Quality control
Insufficient arch support
5. Merrell’s Men’s Encore Gust Slip-On Shoe

Made of full-grain leather
Fitted with an ortholite footbed
The arch shank is made of molded nylon
Equipped with a breathable mesh lining
Whether it’s a pair of sandals, sneakers, or comfy work shoes, this is one brand to keep your eye on. Every specimen they put out is well-thought-out and they brought the same dedication on board with Merrell’s Men’s Encore Gust Slip-On Shoe. The sleek design here is one of the first things that you’ll notice about this pair of shoes. For the most part, it’s made of 100% full-grain leather; this contributes to its sleek and attractive look.
The leather upper is a simple sneak peek into what this pair of shoes has to offer. Furthermore, it’s fitted with an anatomical footbed which is a guarantee for comfort all through your shift. You’ll appreciate the convenience of the slip-on design featured here. So, there’s no need to touch fiddle with your feet to get your shoes back on, simply stick your feet in and you’re good to go.
For even more convenience and comfort, there’s the addition of a supportive sole unit coupled with a padded collar. The manufacturers even went as far as to add an air cushion embedded in the heel to absorb any form of shock. Once you factor in the ortholite footbed, you’ve got yourself a recipe for a really comfortable and sleek pair of shoes. Check out our buying guide for the best kitchen shoes for chefs.
Comfortable and offer good support
Aesthetically pleasing design
Easy to clean
A bit on the pricey side
Sizing could be an issue
It can ger slippery
6. Crocs Men’s and Women’s Specialist II Clog

Comes in a lightweight design
Synthetic makeup
Thick construction in the toe area
The footbed is well contoured
When it comes to Crocs as a brand, this unisex option is definitely one of the best out there. The entire shoe is made using synthetic materials right down to the sole. While being quite similar to other specimens on this list, the Crocs Men’s and Women’s Specialist II Clog has some distinguishing features.
The one you’ll probably have your eye out for is the comfort they offer. First and foremost, there’s a whole lot of space incorporated here to ensure that sore feet are the least of your worries while you work. Even better, the Specialist II clog is fitted with higher heels so they can help you blend right into the workplace. Sure, Crocs usually have a casual and laid back air around them. But with this model, you get something a bit more elevated without sacrificing comfort.
That’s not all, there’s also the addition of contoured footbeds to the mix. This feature goes a long way to increase arch support and in extension, more comfort. So, whether you are a man or a woman, you can rock this pair of crocs and your feet will thank you.
Incredibly easy to clean
Aesthetically pleasing design
Comfortable
Insufficient cushioning
Quality control
Irregular sizing
7. Skechers for Work Men’s Balder Slip Resistant Work Clog

Fitted with a removable PU comfort insole
Synthetic makeup
Comes with a slip-resistant outsole
Has a padded collar and footbed
You hear the name Skechers and you automatically expect nothing less than the best. It’s not uncalled for, this brand is well-known for putting out some really great footwear. With the Skechers for Work Men’s Balder Slip Resistant Work Clog, they really hit a home run.
The shoe itself is made of 100% synthetic material and is as sturdy as they come. Let’s start with the lightweight, yet flexible EVA constructed upper which happens to bring a lot of durability to the table. For unparalleled comfort, it is fitted with a removable cushioned footbed that happens to be shock-absorbent too.
Taking it up a notch is its padded collar which goes a long way to ensure that the comfort offered but the footbed is matched. The star of the show here is none other than the outsole. This slip-resistant component does not only ensure your comfort, but it contributes to your safety too.
To further put your mind at ease, you’ll be pleased to know that they have been put through rigorous testing using the ASTM F1677-2005 Mark II testing standard. So, whether it’s a wet or oily floor, these shoes are more than up to the task. Now, here’s an addition that you like, there are ventilation ports located right at the medial side of these shoes. As such, sweaty feet will be the least of your problems while you save lives.
It is nice and comfy
Easy to clean
Slip-resistant
Subpar sole pad
Quality control
Sizing is an issue
8. Merrell’s Women’s Encore Q2 Slide LTR Climbing Shoe

Fitted with a nylon arch shank
Made of 100% leather
Has a breathable mesh lining
Fitted with a nylon sole
The moment you lay your eyes on these babies it will be love at first sight. Yeah, they are quite the lookers, but there is so much more to the Merrell’s Women’s Encore Q2 Slide LTR Climbing Shoe than its looks. First and foremost, this pair of shoes is made using 100% leather while it’s fitted with a rubber sole. That mostly accounts for the exterior, meanwhile, the interior of this pair of shoes is where the magic happens.
You’ll also like the fact that it’s fitted with a mesh lining that goes a long way to contribute to the breathability of these shoes. One of the worst things to combat when you’re on your feet all day is sweat and moisture. The discomfort and odor are not anyone’s cup of tea. Thankfully, it’s not part of the picture where these shoes are concerned.
Taking the comfort level up a notch is the Qform 2 Midsole incorporated into the all-around construction of these shoes. This feature makes you feel like these were specifically designed for you. It goes a long way to ensure that your feet are positioned well and in extension guarantees heightened comfort. All in all, your shift will be a lot less strenuous with these shoes on your feet.
Comfortable and sturdy
Offers ample support
Adequate cushioning
Quality control
Sizing is an issue
Long break-in period
9. Crocs Bistro Clog

Made completely of Croslite
Fitted with a synthetic sole
Features and enclosed toe design
Footbed is contoured
Yeah, crocs are just that good, with this being their third appearance on this list. That’s ample evidence that this brand is definitely doing something right. You’ll find that the Crocs Bistro Clog stays true to the all-around relaxed and comfy vibe that the brand represents. This lightweight pair of shoes is just what you need to get through that seemingly impossible day. But don’t just take our word for it, look at the fact that these shoes are completely ASTM F2913-11 tested and equally CE Certified.
Another aspect that’s sure to catch your eye here is the enclosed design. It’s both functional and completely tailored to your comfort. Coupled with this design is a thicker metatarsal which goes a long way to guard your feet against spills. In terms of convenience, this is quite a well-thought-out pair of shoes. They are further fashioned in a way that makes them easy to clean. All you need is some soap and water, give it a quick dry then you’re good to go.
Multi-purpose use
They are easy to clean
Lightweight and super supportive
Breathability is an issue
Sizing is an issue
Lack of ankle support
Shoe For Surgeons Buying Guide And FAQ
By now it should be evident that taking care of the feet in this profession is a full-time job. But with the rigors of being a surgeon, you need a pair of shoes that will take this off the table. Before you make a purchase, there's a handful of things to take into consideration. You can't just dive in because your comfort at work is paramount to your performance. So while you're out saving lives, let us save your feet. With these points below, you'll be on a one-way street to the best shoes for surgeons out there.
Features To Look For In Shoes For Surgeons
Comfort - With shoes for surgeons, as it is with just about any kind of footwear, comfort is paramount. After all, that's why there are specially designed shoes for standing all day. But, you bet that surgeons need an enhanced amount of comfort. All the standing, walking, running around takes its toll on the feet. In fact, you need something that can help alleviate pain as a whole. So, don't only ensure that the footbed has ample cushioning, equally look for options with ankle support.
Also, check out the upper and sole areas as they are major comfort points. If you can get your hands on something with orthotics, you've hit a home run.
Breathability is equally a major part of comfort because sweaty feet a good doctor does not make. So, look for shoes with a mesh component to keep the sweat and odors at bay.
Stability - Especially for people who need to be on their feet all day, stability is a must-have attribute. For the most part, all shoes offer stability in their own way. But once you take into consideration the fact that we all have different physiques, it's a bit of a doozy. So, while some people have arched feet, others have weak ankles. So, you really need to take the physiology of your feet into consideration if you want to get stability tailored to you. Even more, if you have problems with your feet, joints, or knees, you may need to contact a podiatrist.
All in all, you need enough support to keep you on your feet. Working in a fast-paced environment where people's lives literally depend on you, you need to be able to move briskly. That's mostly dependent on your stability, so there are no shortcuts there.
Easy To Sterilize - When you're literally working to save human lives, you can't let germs get in the way. As such, any shoes you pick should be easy to clean and sterilize. For one, stay away from anything with laces. Not only will they get dirty, but they will drag all sorts of germs around the workplace. That means you'd have to continuously sterilize your hands anytime you touched your laces.
Your best bet is a pair of slip-on shoes that come in an easy to clean design. For the most part, go for something that you can pop in the washing machine once it's dirty. Also, go for something with holes included in their all-around design. Based on this description, Crocs are a go-to option.
Durability - Why buy it if it's not going to last, right? Even more, being a surgeon requires a lot of footwork. You're going to be walking, running, sprinting, and standing a whole lot. All in all, this adds up to a lot of hours of usage. The thing is, durability is definitely one of the most important features to look out for but it's pretty much one of the hardest to nail.
You see the truth of the matter is that shoes are not meant to last forever. But you want to get a good amount of hours in.
So, for the most part, you need to be realistic about what you're going to get out of your shoes. Of course, they shouldn't break down after a day or a week. But, frequent usage is going to cause significant wear over time. If you have to replace them after 6 months or more, that's not bad at all.
Shoe For Surgeons FAQ
Q: What are the best shoes for the operating room?
A: It goes without saying, the shoes need to be both sturdy and comfortable. But that's in a pretty general sense. More specifically, take into consideration the average number of hours surgery lasts. With that in mind, you pretty much have a solid idea as to how much support your feet need.
Also, look for shoes that work well with the floors at your place of work. What works well for concrete floors may not always work well for tiles. So, the shoes picked should reflect that. There's also the length of your feet to consider. You don't want to end up with something ill-fitting because that could ruin your entire vibe.
Q: Do surgeons sit during surgery?
A: That depends on the body part being operated on. While a surgeon can get away with operating on an arm, the same does not do for the heart or pelvic region.