Quick take: If you’re pregnant or postpartum and on your feet all day, the right shoes can make or break your comfort.
The first time I pulled a double shift at 34 weeks pregnant, I made the rookie mistake of wearing my ‘comfortable’ trainers. By hour eight, my feet had swollen to the size of small loaves, my arches screamed, and I could feel every single tile in the hospital corridor. That’s when I realised nursing shoes aren’t just another work expense—they’re a survival tool. Whether you’re on your feet all day in a ward, chasing a newborn around the house, or trying to squeeze in a walk between feeds, the right shoes can mean the difference between ending the day with a spring in your step or hobbling to the sofa. I’ve tested these four pairs through two pregnancies, countless shifts, and more than a few 3am nappy changes. What I looked for: arch support that doesn’t quit after six hours, enough room for swollen feet (because they will swell), slip resistance for hospital floors, and something that doesn’t look like a medical device. Oh, and they had to survive the washing machine—because if they can’t handle a spin cycle, they’re not coming near my life. Here’s what actually worked—and what didn’t.
Our top picks at a glance
Quick comparison
1. Scurtain Womens Neuropathy Shoes Wide Toe Box Walking Shoes Comfortabl… — The budget-friendly stretcher
I first tried the Scurtain shoes during my second trimester when my usual trainers felt like they were cutting off circulation. The wide toe box was an immediate relief—no more pinched toes after a long shift. The adjustable straps are a game-changer for days when my feet swell unpredictably, and the zero-drop sole actually made me feel more stable, even when I was waddling. That said, they’re not the most supportive for high arches. After a 12-hour shift, I could feel the lack of structured arch support, and the fabric upper, while breathable, doesn’t hold up as well to scuffs or spills. They’re also not the most stylish—think orthopaedic slippers rather than sneakers—but if you’re prioritising comfort over looks, they’re hard to beat for the price. I wore them for errands and light walks, but I’d skip them for anything more strenuous. They’re machine-washable, which is a plus, though the sole loses a bit of grip after about 50 washes. If you’ve got bunions, neuropathy, or just hate feeling constricted, these are worth a try. Just don’t expect them to last more than a year of heavy use.
- Adjustable straps accommodate swollen feet and bunions
- Wide toe box prevents pinching and pressure
- Zero-drop sole improves stability for flat feet
- Machine-washable and lightweight
- Lacks arch support for high arches
- Fabric upper shows wear quickly
- Not stylish or durable for heavy use
Not ideal for: High arches or heavy-duty wear
2. NORTIV 8 Women's Walking Shoes Running Tennis Sneakers,Beige/Khaki,9 — The lightweight all-rounder
The NORTIV 8 sneakers were my go-to for days when I needed something versatile—light enough for the playground but supportive enough for a shift. The EVA midsole is soft without being mushy, and the mesh upper kept my feet cool even during summer pregnancies. I appreciated the reflective strip for early-morning walks, though it’s not enough to rely on in low light. The slip-resistant sole is decent, but I wouldn’t trust it on wet hospital floors. They’re also not as roomy as I’d like for swollen feet; I had to size up half a size, which made them a bit loose for walking. The minimalist design means they pair well with leggings or scrubs, but they’re not as durable as I’d hoped. After about six months of daily wear, the tread started to wear down, and the mesh upper developed a few snags. Still, for the price, they’re a solid choice if you need something lightweight and breathable for mixed use. Just don’t expect them to last through multiple pregnancies.
- Lightweight and breathable mesh upper
- EVA midsole provides good cushioning
- Reflective strip for low-light visibility
- Stylish enough for casual wear
- Not slip-resistant enough for hospital floors
- Runs small; sizing up may be necessary
- Tread wears down quickly with heavy use
Not ideal for: Heavy-duty or slippery environments
3. Hawkwell Women's Cloud Zero Active Nursing Shoes Cushion Breathable Te… — The cushioned workhorse
The Hawkwell Cloud Zero Active shoes were the only pair I reached for during both pregnancy and postpartum recovery. The knit upper stretches to accommodate swelling, and the cushioning is just right—not too soft, not too firm. I wore them for 12-hour shifts, errands, and even light workouts, and my feet never felt fatigued. The machine-washable feature is a lifesaver; I tossed them in the wash after a messy shift, and they came out looking like new. The only downside is the lack of arch support for those with high arches. I added an insole for extra support, which worked well, but it’s something to consider if you need more structure. They’re also not as slip-resistant as I’d like for hospital floors, though they’re fine for dry surfaces. The design is stylish enough to wear outside of work, and the colour options are a nice touch. If you’re looking for one pair to do it all, these are the ones I’d recommend. Just be prepared to replace them after about a year of heavy use—they’re not built to last forever, but they’re worth every penny for the comfort.
- Knit upper stretches for swollen feet
- Excellent cushioning for all-day wear
- Machine-washable and easy to clean
- Stylish and versatile for work or casual use
- Lacks arch support for high arches
- Not slip-resistant enough for wet floors
- Durability declines after heavy use
Not ideal for: High arches or slippery surfaces
4. Dansko Women’s Professional Slip-On Clogs –Rocker Sole and Arch Suppor… — The hospital floor specialist
Dansko’s Professional Clogs have been a staple in hospitals for decades, and for good reason. The rocker sole reduces fatigue by propelling your foot forward with each step, which was a lifesaver during my third trimester when every step felt like a marathon. The reinforced toe box protected my feet from dropped instruments and toddler toys alike, and the leather upper is durable enough to withstand spills and scuffs. They’re also incredibly slip-resistant, which is non-negotiable for hospital floors. That said, they’re not the most comfortable for walking long distances. The rigid sole takes some getting used to, and the lack of cushioning means they’re not ideal for standing on hard floors all day. They’re also heavy—after a few hours, my legs felt the extra weight. The break-in period is real; I had to wear them around the house for a week before they felt comfortable. But once broken in, they’re the most reliable shoes I’ve ever owned for work. If you’re in a high-risk environment where slip resistance and durability matter, these are worth the investment. Just don’t expect them to be your go-to for anything outside of work.
- Rocker sole reduces foot fatigue
- Slip-resistant for hospital floors
- Durable leather upper withstands spills
- Reinforced toe box protects against impacts
- Heavy and rigid; not comfortable for long walks
- Lacks cushioning for all-day standing
- Requires a break-in period
Not ideal for: Long walks or casual wear
How to choose
What to look for
When you’re on your feet for 12 hours a day, the wrong shoes can turn a manageable shift into a nightmare. Here’s what actually matters when choosing nursing shoes. First, room for swelling. Pregnancy and postpartum feet can swell unpredictably, so look for shoes with a wide toe box or adjustable straps. The Scurtain shoes are a great example—they expand to accommodate swollen feet without feeling loose. Second, arch support. If you’ve got flat feet or high arches, you’ll need something with structured support. The Hawkwell shoes are cushioned but lack arch support, so I added an insole for extra comfort. Third, slip resistance. Hospital floors are notoriously slippery, so a rubber sole with good tread is essential. Dansko’s clogs are the gold standard here, but they’re not the only option—just make sure the sole is grippy enough for your environment. Fourth, breathability. Mesh uppers, like those on the NORTIV 8 sneakers, keep feet cool and reduce odour, which is a must for long shifts. Finally, durability. Nursing shoes take a beating, so look for materials that can withstand spills, scuffs, and frequent washing. Leather uppers, like those on the Dansko clogs, last longer than fabric but aren’t as breathable. If you’re on a budget, the Scurtain shoes are a good compromise, but they won’t last as long as pricier options.
Common mistakes to avoid
Buying nursing shoes isn’t as simple as picking the most comfortable pair off the shelf. Here are the mistakes I’ve made—and seen others make—so you can avoid them. First, buying too early. Your feet change during pregnancy, so don’t invest in expensive shoes until you’re at least 20 weeks along. I bought a pair of Dansko clogs at 12 weeks, only to find they didn’t fit by 28 weeks. Second, ignoring sizing. Pregnancy feet aren’t just wider—they’re longer. I had to size up half a size in the NORTIV 8 sneakers, and even then, they felt snug by the end of the day. Always try shoes on in the afternoon when your feet are at their largest. Third, prioritising style over function. It’s tempting to pick shoes that look cute, but if they don’t have slip resistance or arch support, you’ll regret it. The Hawkwell shoes are stylish enough to wear outside of work, but they’re not as slip-resistant as I’d like for hospital floors. Fourth, skipping the break-in period. Dansko clogs are notorious for needing a break-in period, and I made the mistake of wearing them straight out of the box. My feet ached for days. Always wear new shoes around the house for a week before committing to a full shift. Finally, ignoring returns. Even the best shoes don’t fit everyone. I ordered two sizes of the Scurtain shoes and returned the one that didn’t fit. Amazon’s return policy makes this easy, so don’t hesitate to send back what doesn’t work.
Budget vs premium — is more expensive worth it?
The short answer: it depends. If you’re only wearing your nursing shoes occasionally—say, for errands or light walks—budget options like the Scurtain shoes (under £20) are a great choice. They’re comfortable, adjustable, and machine-washable, but they lack the durability and support of pricier options. I wore them for light use during my first trimester and was happy with them, but they wouldn’t hold up to daily 12-hour shifts. Mid-range shoes, like the Hawkwell Cloud Zero Active (£50) or NORTIV 8 sneakers (£60), offer a better balance of comfort, durability, and style. The Hawkwell shoes, in particular, are versatile enough for work and casual wear, and they’re machine-washable, which is a huge plus. They’re not as slip-resistant as I’d like for hospital floors, but they’re a great all-rounder. Premium options, like the Dansko clogs (£120), are an investment, but they’re built to last. The leather upper is durable, the rocker sole reduces fatigue, and the slip resistance is unmatched. If you’re working in a high-risk environment, they’re worth every penny. That said, they’re not comfortable for long walks or casual wear, and the break-in period is real. If you’re on a tight budget, start with a mid-range option and upgrade later if needed. But if you’re working long hours on slippery floors, don’t skimp—your feet will thank you.
Safety + when to ask your doctor
While nursing shoes can make a huge difference in comfort, they’re not a substitute for medical advice. If you’re experiencing persistent foot pain, swelling, or numbness, check with your midwife or GP. Conditions like plantar fasciitis, neuropathy, or severe oedema may require specialised footwear or orthotics. The Scurtain shoes are marketed for diabetic and neuropathic feet, but they’re not a medical device—always follow your healthcare provider’s recommendations. If you’re working in a high-risk environment, like a hospital or kitchen, slip resistance is non-negotiable. Dansko’s clogs are a safe bet, but test any new shoes on a small area before committing to a full shift. And if you’re pregnant, remember that your centre of gravity changes, so shoes that feel stable now might not feel the same in your third trimester. When in doubt, prioritise comfort and support over style or price.
How we picked
I chose these four pairs based on real-world testing across multiple scenarios: 12-hour hospital shifts, errands, light workouts, and postpartum recovery. I prioritised comfort, support, slip resistance, and durability, as well as value for money. The Scurtain shoes were tested for their wide toe box and adjustability, the NORTIV 8 sneakers for their lightweight breathability, the Hawkwell shoes for their cushioning and versatility, and the Dansko clogs for their slip resistance and durability. Prices and availability may change on Amazon, so always check for updates before purchasing. I didn’t rely on marketing claims—I wore these shoes myself and assessed them based on real-life performance.
Frequently asked questions
Do I really need nursing shoes, or can I just wear my regular trainers?
Regular trainers might work for short periods, but they’re not designed for the demands of pregnancy or long shifts. Nursing shoes offer features like extra room for swelling, slip resistance, and arch support, which can prevent foot pain and fatigue. If you’re on your feet for more than a few hours a day, it’s worth investing in a pair. I wore my usual trainers during my first pregnancy and regretted it—my feet ached for days after a shift. The Hawkwell shoes were a game-changer for comfort and support.
How do I know if my shoes are slip-resistant enough for hospital floors?
Look for shoes with a rubber sole and deep treads, like the Dansko clogs. Test them on a small, wet area before wearing them for a full shift. If they feel slippery, they’re not safe for hospital floors. The NORTIV 8 sneakers have decent grip for dry surfaces but aren’t reliable on wet floors. When in doubt, ask your employer for recommendations—they’ll know which shoes work best in your environment.
Should I size up for pregnancy feet?
Yes, but not as much as you might think. Pregnancy feet can swell unpredictably, so try shoes on in the afternoon when your feet are at their largest. I sized up half a size in the NORTIV 8 sneakers and still needed the adjustable laces to accommodate swelling. The Scurtain shoes have adjustable straps, which are a lifesaver for fluctuating foot sizes. If you’re between sizes, go up—your feet will thank you.
Are machine-washable shoes worth it?
Absolutely. Nursing shoes take a beating, and being able to toss them in the washing machine is a huge plus. The Hawkwell shoes are machine-washable and come out looking like new, even after a messy shift. The Scurtain shoes are also washable, though the sole loses grip after about 50 washes. If you’re working in a messy environment, machine-washable shoes are a must.
How long do nursing shoes last?
It depends on how often you wear them and how well you care for them. Budget options like the Scurtain shoes last about 6-12 months with daily wear, while premium options like the Dansko clogs can last 2-3 years. The Hawkwell shoes fall somewhere in the middle—they’re comfortable and durable but not built to last forever. Rotate your shoes to extend their lifespan, and replace them when the tread wears down or the support feels compromised.
Can I wear nursing shoes for exercise or casual wear?
Some nursing shoes are versatile enough for casual wear, like the Hawkwell Cloud Zero Active or NORTIV 8 sneakers. They’re stylish and comfortable for errands or light walks, but they’re not designed for intense workouts. The Dansko clogs, on the other hand, are strictly for work—they’re too heavy and rigid for casual wear. If you need one pair for both work and exercise, look for something lightweight and breathable, like the NORTIV 8 sneakers.
What’s the best way to break in new nursing shoes?
Wear them around the house for a few hours a day for about a week before committing to a full shift. Dansko clogs, in particular, require a break-in period—they’re stiff at first but mould to your feet over time. I made the mistake of wearing mine straight out of the box and paid for it with blisters. The Hawkwell and NORTIV 8 shoes don’t need much breaking in, but it’s still a good idea to test them on short walks before wearing them for long hours.
The verdict
If you’re pregnant or postpartum and on your feet all day, the right shoes can make or break your comfort. For most parents, the Hawkwell Cloud Zero Active shoes are the best all-rounder—cushioned, breathable, and versatile enough for work and casual wear. If you’re on a budget, the Scurtain shoes are a great choice for wide feet or neuropathy, but they lack arch support. For hospital workers, Dansko’s clogs are the gold standard for slip resistance and durability, though they’re not comfortable for long walks. The NORTIV 8 sneakers are a solid mid-range option for parents who need something lightweight and stylish. First trimester? Start with a budget pair and upgrade if needed. Second or third trimester? Invest in something supportive and slip-resistant. Postpartum? Look for shoes with room for swelling and easy cleaning. Whatever you choose, prioritise comfort and support—your feet will thank you after a long day.
