The Top 5 Shoes for Teachers (2024)

Updated: January 4, 2023

Teachers spend long, stressful hours on their feet every day. Comfortable shoes are a must. Sore, tired feet can be a distraction in the moment, causing us to focus on our aching muscles instead of the task at hand. As well, standing all day can cause myriad health issues, including bunions, swollen legs, lower back pain, varicose veins, and even a stiff neck and shoulders.

Unlike a lot of other workers who have to stand on their feet all day, most teachers can choose from a wide range of shoe styles. For instance, they may be able to wear sandals or other open-toe styles, which would be a safety issue for those working in the health-care field. While teachers should have fun and choose shoe styles that reflect their personality, they should also look for features that will keep their feet comfortable all day long.

As the day progresses, our feet naturally swell. To accommodate that swelling, teachers should look for shoes with a spacious upper or one that is constructed from soft, stretchy material. To reduce pressure on their feet and joints, teachers should look for shoes that have a flat outsole, where the entire sole contacts the floor (unlike many dressy, heeled shoes). A flat outsole will distribute their weight more evenly, reducing aches and pains.

At the same time, however, a slight heel decreases stress on the Achilles tendon, reducing pain and risk of injury. Look for shoes with a wedge heel or a slight heel lift, like in some sneakers. Finally, arch support and cushioning in the midsole will help with shock absorption as teachers move around, lessening stress on muscles and joints.

1. Vans Classic Slip-on

Vans Classic Slip-on
  • The wide footbed and elastic side pieces accommodate the natural swelling that occurs in feet as the day progresses.
  • The flat outsole helps to distribute weight more evenly, to minimize aches and pains.
  • The grippy rubber outsoles provide excellent traction on school floors, which are often polished to a shine.
Vans Classic Slip-on

Fan Average

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Review Average

4.9

2. Dansko Professional Clog

Dansko Professional Clog
  • The wide variety of leather and fabric choices allows professionals an expansive choice in terms of personal style, comfort, and suitability to their work environment.
  • The wide toe box and polyurethane inner frame keep feet comfortable all day long.
  • The thick, slip-resistant soles provide both cushioning and traction.
  • The rocker bottom keeps movement comfortable by minimizing overpronation and providing lateral support.
Dansko Professional Clog

Fan Average

5.00
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Review Average

4.9

3. Sanuk Women’s Pair O Dice Slip-On Sneakers

Sanuk Women’s Pair O Dice Slip-On Sneakers
  • The breathable uppers, made from canvas or corduroy, keep your feet dry and cool, minimizing the discomfort that can be caused by friction.
  • The wide foot bed and soft uppers easily accommodate swelling feet.
  • The flat, slip-resistant outsoles are a terrific choice for navigating those highly-polished school floors.
Sanuk Women’s Pair O Dice Slip-On Sneakers

Fan Average

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Review Average

4.7

4. Crocs Women’s Leigh Wedge Chelsea Boot

Crocs Women’s Leigh Wedge Chelsea Boot
  • The flat outsole combined with the wedge heel decreases stress on your Achilles tendon and provides stability to reduce aches and pains.
  • The genuine suede uppers are breathable and have natural stretch, to keep your feet dry, cool, and comfortable all day long.
  • The foam footbed layered on the shock-absorbing wedge heel provides optimal comfort in heeled dress shoes.
Crocs Women’s Leigh Wedge Chelsea Boot

Fan Average

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Review Average

4.6

5. BOBS from Skechers Women’s Plush Peace and Love Flat

BOBS from Skechers Women’s Plush Peace and Love Flat
  • The Memory Foam insole adapts to your foot shape for personalized comfort all day long.
  • The “arch pillow” on the insole provides added arch support.
  • The shock-absorbing midsole eases the aches and pains that are caused by standing all day.
BOBS from Skechers Women’s Plush Peace and Love Flat

Fan Average

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Review Average

4.4
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