10 Best tennis shoes for nurses 2026 in the United States

The Brooks Women’s Adrenaline GTS 25 is designed primarily as a running and walking shoe, but it also aligns well with what nurses need in tennis shoes, especially for long shifts. Its standout feature is the GuideRails holistic support system, which helps keep your feet and knees in natural alignment, reducing fatigue and discomfort—a big plus when you’re on your feet for many hours. Comfort is enhanced by the nitrogen-infused DNA Loft v3 cushioning that provides a soft yet responsive feel, making each step gentle and supportive.

The shoe’s breathable mesh upper and flat-knit collar keep airflow going, helping to prevent overheating and sweat buildup during long workdays. It fits true to size and comes in a wide option, which is helpful if you have broader feet. Weighing 9.5 ounces, it’s relatively lightweight, meaning it won’t feel heavy or bulky as you move around.

Slip resistance is also a key point for nurses, and this shoe is equipped with a rubber outsole that offers reliable grip on various indoor surfaces, helping prevent slips on hospital floors. Durability seems solid given the quality materials like rubber soles and mesh uppers, but it’s not water resistant, so it might not be ideal if you often deal with wet conditions. It lacks a special waterproof layer, which some nurses might prefer. While primarily a running shoe, it has earned diabetic shoe certification and the APMA Seal of Acceptance, reassuring its suitability for prolonged standing and walking. This shoe effectively combines comfort, support, and slip resistance, making it a strong candidate for nurses seeking reliable, comfortable footwear for demanding shifts.

The Brooks Women Ghost Max 3 offers impressive comfort thanks to its high-stack cushioning with nitrogen-infused DNA LOFT V3 foam, which provides maximum softness and shock absorption. This makes it an excellent choice for nurses who are on their feet for long shifts. Its wider design and volume allow for a more inclusive fit and the option to add custom orthotics, offering good support and adaptability for different foot shapes. The shoe’s lightweight build, around 9.7 ounces, helps reduce foot fatigue during long days.

Breathability is supported by the mesh outer material, which helps keep feet cool, though it is not water-resistant, so wet conditions may be less ideal. While the rubber outsole should offer some grip, slip resistance is not specifically emphasized, so this shoe might not be optimal for very slippery hospital floors. Durability is decent with a rubber sole and nylon lining, but the lightweight focus might cause it to wear out faster under heavy use compared to sturdier work shoes.

The lace-up design allows for a secure, adjustable fit, which is essential for nurses needing stable footwear. The Ghost Max 3 tends to prioritize running shoe comfort and cushioning rather than specialized slip-resistant nursing shoes, making it a suitable option for nurses who value comfort and support during long shifts on relatively dry surfaces.

The Brooks Women’s Ghost 17 is a well-cushioned and supportive shoe that works nicely for nurses who need reliable comfort throughout long shifts. It features advanced cushioning with nitrogen-infused DNA Loft V3 foam that helps keep each step soft and smooth, reducing foot fatigue. The shoe also offers a breathable mesh upper, which helps keep feet cool and dry during busy, active days.

Its fit is true to size, with a snug but comfortable feel that adapts well to foot movement. The rubber outsole provides good durability and grip, which is important for slip resistance on hospital floors, although it is not specifically marketed as a slip-resistant shoe. Weighing around 600 grams, it is moderately lightweight but might feel a bit heavier compared to some other nursing shoes designed solely for all-day standing.

A potential drawback is the lack of water resistance, so it might not be ideal in wet environments. The Ghost 17 delivers excellent cushioning and support, making it a strong option for nurses who prioritize comfort and breathability, while those needing specialized slip resistance or waterproof features might want to consider other options.