What to look for in shoes for 12-hour shifts

Twelve hours on hard floors is rough on feet, knees and backs. The right shoe will not remove that completely, but it helps a lot. Here is what to check.

Cushioning and support

Soft is not always better. Very soft shoes can feel good in the store and tire your feet over a long shift. Look for cushioning that is firm enough to support you, with a clear arch and a stable heel. If your feet hurt at the end of the day, support is usually the problem.

A slip-resistant sole

Hospitals, kitchens and wet floors are slippery. Look for a sole marked slip-resistant, with a tread pattern that clears liquid. Ask your workplace if they have a standard for it.

A closed, easy-to-clean upper

Spills and splashes happen. A closed toe protects you, and a smooth, wipeable upper is much easier to clean than mesh. If your workplace has a dress code, check it before you buy.

Fit matters more than brand

• Try shoes on late in the day. Feet swell as you stand and walk.
• Leave about a thumb's width in front of your longest toe.
• Wear the socks you work in when you try them on.
• Check the width. Shoes that are too narrow cause pain and long-term problems.

Weight

Heavy shoes tire your legs over a long shift. Pick the lightest shoe that still gives support and grip.

Know when to replace them

Cushioning breaks down well before the upper looks worn. If the foam feels flat, the heel is worn unevenly or your feet and legs ache more than usual, it is time. Many people replace work shoes every six to twelve months, depending on how much they walk.

Clogs or sneakers

Both styles work. Clogs wipe clean and slip on fast. Sneakers hold the heel snug on long walks. Our comparison of clogs and sneakers for nurses covers the call in more detail, and the note on when to replace nursing shoes covers the end of a pair's life.

A small extra: insoles and socks

A supportive insole and moisture-wicking socks can make a decent shoe much more comfortable. If your feet hurt even in good shoes, see a podiatrist rather than guessing.

End of shift

• First to go: the foam under the heel, long before the upper wears.
• Check on Friday: the heel wear from behind and the tread for smooth patches.
• Rotate: two pairs last longer than one.