Being a waitress can be a tedious job, especially if you do not dress properly. With this, you need to invest in the best shoes for waitressing, which will be instrumental in your highest level of comfort. Even if you stand and walk all day, with the right footwear, you will do well in your work.
If you are clueless on what shoes to pick, keep on reading and we’ll share some of the top picks in the market and some tips on how you can differentiate the possibilities. Do not choose a pair only because it is cheap or it looks stylish. Your comfort is the most important thing that should be given emphasis.
Products | Features | Rate |
|---|---|---|
| Padded instep collar, Rocker Bottom, foam footbed | |
| Suede and mesh construction, neoprene collar, removable insole | |
| Synthetic and slip-resistant sole, expandable exterior, padded tongue | |
| Mesh lining, padded tongue and collar, EVA footbed, slip-resistant sole | |
| Air cushioning in the heel, slip-resistant outsole, eliminates odor and bacteria naturally |
***Below, you'll find our more detailed reviews, but you can also click the links above to see current prices or read customer reviews on Amazon.
Essential Factors to Consider
If you are having a hard time trying to narrow down the possibilities, below are some of the things that should be taken into consideration:
- Comfort: This is perhaps the most important thing that you should think of, especially considering the fact that you will be moving from one table to another and stand for the rest of the day. If you have comfortable shoes, you will also be able to avoid the possibility of having foot pain and injuries.
- Durability: To be provided with the best bang for the back, choose shoes that are meant to withstand the test of time. Leather is one of the most popular materials because it is sturdy while being comfortable as well. See to it that the shoes will be able to withstand the demands of your job.
- Cushioning: Look at the footed of the shoes and make sure that it will provide proper cushioning. This will lessen the impact that will be felt by your foot, and in the end, will be critical for your comfort.
- Design: As a waitress, you have to look presentable for your job. With this, it is also important to choose shoes that will make you look good.
- Slip Resistance: Waitresses are at risk of slipping, especially since the floor can be wet at times. Choose shoes with outsoles that have excellent grip and slip-resistant.
Tips in Finding the Best Shoes for Waitressing
Aside from the considerations that have been mentioned above, the following are other things that you should keep in mind:
- Always consult with the dress code of the restaurant where you are working. Make sure that it is appropriate and that it conforms with the rules of the management.
- Try to walk with the shoes before having it purchased. If buying online, pay attention to the policies for returns and exchange.
- As much as possible, choose shoes that you do not need to break-in. This means that you can use it comfortably from the time it was taken out of the box.
- Choose shoes that are breezy. This means that there should be proper air circulation to keep your feet dry and comfortable throughout your shift.
Top Picks for the Best Shoes for Waitressing
In this section, we will identify five of the best options that are currently available in the market.
Suede and mesh construction, neoprene collar, removable insole
Synthetic and slip-resistant sole, expandable exterior, padded tongue
Mesh lining, padded tongue and collar, EVA footbed, slip-resistant sole
Air cushioning in the heel, slip-resistant outsole, eliminates odor and bacteria naturally
1 - Merrell Women’s Jungle Moc Pro Grip Slip-Resistant Work Shoe
One of the best things about this shoe is that it does not come with a lace, making it perfect for people on the go. You can easily wear and take it off.
The outsole of the shoe is another feature that is worth noting. This is designed to be slip-resistant, which is important when working as a waitress. Even if the floor is wet, there is no risk of accidentally slipping.
It also has a revolutionary technology that allows it to fight odor and bacteria. You can be confident that it will remain smelling fresh.
Another good thing is the air cushioning that is integrated on the heel. This provides excellent shock absorption, which is vital for your comfort.
I like
- Insole is flexible
- Offers great support
- Does not produce foul odor
I don't like
- Can make an annoying sound when wet
- Not waterproof
2 - New Balance Women’s WX626 Slip-Resistant Cross-Training Shoe
If you are wondering what are the best shoes for a waiters to wear, this is one option that you should know of. The slip-resistant and non-marking outsole is one of the features that make it perfect for waitressing.
Another thing that you might like about this option is the material that is used. It has a leather upper, which does not only look good but is also long-lasting.
It also has a revolutionary technology that allows it to fight odor and bacteria. You can be confident that it will remain smelling fresh.
It also provides excellent arch support. This is ideal for preventing the possibility of injuries. It is also designed for people with flat feet.
I like
- Excellent cushioning
- Non-skid outsoles
- Perfect for people with plantar fasciitis
I don't like
- Can be too firm for some users
- Not as durable as leading competitors
3 - Skechers for Work Women’s Soft Stride – Softie Slip-resistant Lace-Up
Made by a trusted brand, this is another shoe that does not fail to deliver positive impressions. It is best for waitressing because it can be comfortable even when you are standing for an extended period, which is one thing most waitresses experience in their work.
The interior cushion is one of its best features. This provides the foot with a soft bed, which is not only supportive but also comfortable. For irregular arches, on the other hand, the use of the right inserts might prove to be necessary.
The non-slip sole is also a good thing. This means that even if you are walking on wet surfaces, you can be confident that you will not slip, even if you always seem to be in a hurry.
I like
- Comfortable even when standing for a long time
- Made from materials that are long-lasting
- Soft tongue
I don't like
- Looks bulky
- Arch support can be better
4 - Easy Spirit Women’s Piers Walking Shoe
The affordable price of this product is one reason why it is included in the list of the best shoes for waitressing. Even without having to spend a lot, you can enjoy a high-quality footwear that will meet the demands of your job.
The overall construction of the shoe is also impressive. It is made from a combination of suede and mesh, which is aesthetically-pleasing and comfortable. It also has neoprene collar. These materials are known for their flexibility.
The inner cushioning is also a good thing. It provides the feet with a comfortable bed that is also effective in dampening shock. More so, it is also great that it comes with removable insoles.
I like
- Economical price
- Stylish
- Lightweight
I don't like
- Not for people with wide feet
- A bit stiff
5 - Dansko Women’s Professional Oiled Leather Clog
Although it has an expensive price, this is another option that we highly recommend for the best shoes for waitressing. The arch support that it provides is one of the most impressive about this shoe, making sure that you will feel comfortable at work.
The padded instep collar is another feature that you might love. The collar is soft and flexible, which will be comfortable even when you move. This is unlike in the case of others shoes wherein the collar is stiff and can cause irritation when it gets in contact with the skin.
The Rocker Bottom is a smart design feature that you can find in this shoe. It is similar to what you can find in athletic shoes. This is beneficial because it absorbs shock and effectively lessens fatigue.
The foam footbed is also worth commending. It is not only soft and breathable, but it also offers great temperature control.
I like
- Impressive arch support
- Generous cushioning
- Breathable
I don't like
- Expensive
- Can be squeaky
Conclusion
In sum, from the five options above, if there is one that we can recommend, it would be Dansko Women’s Professional Oiled Leather Clog . From design to comfort, it will provide the best bang for the buck. It might be pricey, but this is only because it comes with premium quality.
The best shoes for waitressing is an essential investment for your job! Make sure to have a pair of footwear that will make you feel comfortable, and in the end, more productive in your work.
I see that New Balance Women’s WX626 Slip-Resistant Cross-Training Shoes is a pair of shoes that even waitresses with foot problems will find comfortable to wear. If anyone has plantar fasciitis or Achilles tendonitis or arthritis, this can be a good option for them.