Shoes…What Even Are They? Evolution doesn’t happen overnight. It is lengthy and, quite honestly, a process that will never cease to exist. In fact, it took roughly four million years for humans to evolve and finally form the perfect foot for our needs. A foot that grips and conforms, a foot that doesn’t even need shoes.

So what are we doing wearing shoes? While our foot in its natural form isn’t meant to live in shoes, they are indispensable to our modern ways of life (not to mention they’re fabulous in their multitude of shapes, sizes, styles, and colors.) Most situations outside of the beach and the comfort of your own home require your feet to be covered. So if we must wear shoes anyways, let’s at least wear the best ones that we possibly can. Especially for those of us who are on our feet for extended periods--we’re looking at you, nurses! Lack of proper footwear can lead to a multitude of ailments such as back pain, neck pain, and (surprise surprise!) foot pain.

Let’s have a look at some of the best footwear in the industry. While we appreciate and understand that everyone’s feet are different and preferences do develop over time, we’ve narrowed it down based on customer reviews. So we’ve put together a list of the top three shoe companies in the industry, by price range. We’ll let you decide from there, which are the most comfortable shoes for nurses.

$$$ Dansko^®. 

Dansk^® offers a variety of higher-end shoes that the industry continues to rave about year after year. Have a look at their shoes here. (Little known fact: Dansko all started with a shoe that was discovered in Denmark, and brought back to America for use on a farm!)

$$ Alegria^®. 

Alegria^® is a California based shoe company that offers an incredible range of style and designs, starting at the midrange. With their bright funky patterns, you’re sure to be the belle of the ER. Check out what they have here.

$ Skechers^®. 

If you haven’t worn Skechers^® since you were a child, it might be time to reconsider. The company offers an assortment of styles for shoes in the workplace, at a more affordable price. Browse their selection here.

In the meantime, here are some quick tips:

1. Keep moving. Standing still on your feet can cause more damage to your feet from the continuous pressure.
2. Stretch. Stretch your back, your neck, your feet.
3. Consider sole inserts for that extra comfort.
4. If time allows, sneak off to the restroom and give your feet a quick massage.

http://nymag.com/health/features/46213/index1.html