Pharmacists need to do a lot of standing and walking during their day, especially if they run a retail pharmacy — making sure that you have the right pair can make your job much easier. The wrong kind of shoes will definitely make your day harder as well as cause injuries and in the long term may even cause health problems.
But it’s not easy finding the right pair.
The problem is that in most cases (not all) style and appearance do not go hand in hand with comfort and safety. It’s very hard to find shoes that combine both. Most professional-looking shoes do not provide traction and enough slip resistance to pharmacists and it’s very hard to find a shoe that combines both.
As a pharmacist, your choice is clear: High-quality safety shoes with support and comfort come before style. Do not think twice and invest in expensive high-quality models. Your health is much more important!
To help you find the right shoes for your job, here’s our guide to the top 8 best shoes for pharmacy technicians to ensure – at least as far as your feet are concerned – the time you spend at work is as painless as possible.
List Of The Best Work Shoes for Pharmacists
1. Nurse Mates Women’s Velocity Medical Professional Shoe
2. Dr. Scholl’s Men’s Harrington Work Shoe
3. Clarks Men’s Escalade Step
4. Dansko Women’s Professional Clog
5. Dansko Men’s Walker
6. Skechers for Work Men’s Cottonwood Elks Slip Resistant Shoe
7. Alegria Women’s Keli Professional
8. Clarks Women’s Cheyn Madi Slip-On Loafer
So here comes the in-depth reviews, Buying guide, and Frequently Asked Questions
Let’s Start!
Top 8 Best Shoes For Pharmacists and Pharmacy Technicians – Detailed Reviews
1. Nurse Mates Women’s Velocity Medical Professional Shoe
Stabilizing composite shank
Lightweight EVA bottom
When it comes to shoes for nurses and pharmacy technicians, Nurse Mates is one of the most trusted brands, and this pair is another great addition to the company’s already well-regarded range.
They are stain-resistant and easy to clean, something that any pharmacist will appreciate, and they also offer good slip protection too, helping to keep you safe during your shift. The fact that they’re easy to put on and take off also makes them ideal for busy healthcare workers.
Importantly, these shoes are lightweight, which helps reduce fatigue, and since they come in a range of colors – and also in leather or polyurethane versions – you’ll be able to find a pair that fits the dress code in your workplace.
One slight issue we have is that we’re not sure how long they’ll last – you should get at least a year or so out of them, but beyond this, we have our doubts. Also, some people might find them a little clunky, so it might take a bit of time to get used to wearing them.
All in all, these are a great option for anyone looking for a pair of reliable, comfortable, safe, and professional shoes that are suitable for pharmacist technicians or similar professions. And if that includes you, this is an option to consider.
- Wide range of style options – choose one suitable for your workplace
- Stain-resistant – easy to clean up after spills
- Good slip resistance – to help you stay on your feet
- Lightweight shoes – less fatigue during long shifts
- Easy to put on and take off – ideal for busy pharmacists
- Questions over durability – might not be a long-term solution
- Slightly clunky – may take a little getting used to
2. Dr. Scholl’s Men’s Harrington Work Shoe
Pebbled leather allows much less stiffness in forming the shoe to your stride
Removable Insole
For anyone looking for men’s working shoes that are suitable for a range of jobs – including pharmacy technicians, nurses, bar staff, and more – this model from Dr. Scholl is worth a look.
The upper part is made of 100% leather, so they should stand up to a bit of rough treatment, and the rubber soles also boast a good amount of grip to help prevent you from slipping over in spills.
One of the best things about these shoes is their professional look, which makes them such a good option for almost any workplace, and they also provide good support, so they would be ideal for anyone who suffers from conditions like plantar fasciitis.
On the downside, they are a bit on the heavy side, so if you’re standing up in them for long periods, you might find you suffer from tired feet and legs.
Also, despite their general ruggedness, the place where the heel is attached is a weak point and may become detached with time – although you can mitigate this by untying them and taking them off properly rather than just kicking them off.
Despite these minor downsides, we think these shoes could be a great pick for those in need of professional male footwear. They also sell at a very reasonable price point, meaning with these shoes, you can hardly go wrong.
- 100% leather uppers – built to last
- Rubber sole – with good grip to prevent slipping
- Removable insole – for more comfort and flexibility
- Professional look – suitable for any workplace
- Reasonably priced shoes – more affordable than many comparable models
- A little heavy – may give you tired feet after a long shift
- Weakness at heel – may come apart with time
Grip nicely and stay firmly put to your foot
Made from breathable leather
These work shoes from Clarks feature plenty of padding to make them comfortable to wear, even during long shifts, and they offer a good amount of support, so they should help reduce leg and back pain. The flexible sole also helps increase the overall comfort of these shoes.
We love the way they look – this slip-on style is highly professional and wouldn’t look out of place in an office environment. We also appreciate the fact that they’re tough and durable, so you won’t have to replace them for a while.
Another plus, especially for those with wider feet, is the large toe box, which will ensure your feet don’t get squeezed, especially important when wearing them during long shifts.
Perhaps the main problem with these shoes is the noise they make when walking on hard floors. The squeaking noise they make might not be ideal for nurses working night shifts – but for pharmacy technicians, this might not be such an issue.
Also, they don’t have the best grip, so you’ll need to be a little careful if you’re working anywhere that might end up with spills on the floor.
Clarks is a long-established and well-loved brand, and the company makes a whole range of reliable professional shoes – and if you appreciate buying from a brand that’s backed by such a reputable name, these shoes should be of interest.
- Breathable leather – helps reduce sweaty feet
- Flexible sole – for more comfort and mobility
- Soft padding – increases comfort
- Large toe box – won’t squeeze your feet
- Durable shoes – should last at least a good few years
- Noisy to walk in – make a loud squeaky sound on hard floors
- Not the best grip – but not too bad either
4. Dansko Women’s Professional Clog
Wide heel strike for greater stability
Looks great after long usage
While they’re a bit pricey, Dansko clogs have been a mainstay of the nursing profession for many years – and they’re also the perfect design for pharmacy technicians.
The convenient clog design makes them easy to slip on and off, saving you a few vital moments during your busy day. They’re also extremely comfortable, even if you have to wear them for hours on end – although be aware that some models may need a little breaking in.
Lots of people will love this cute style – they’re available in several different color schemes too – and they’re also easy to wipe down if they get dirty, another important consideration for pharmacy technicians and others doing similar jobs.
One slight negative is that they are slightly heavy for a shoe that you might need to wear during long shifts, although most people will get used to them quickly, and the high comfort levels compensate somewhat.
Other than that, as we’ve mentioned, the only issue is the price, but we still think they represent great value for money, so if you’re looking for super-comfortable work shoes and don’t mind paying a bit more to get your hands on them, these could be an option to consider.
- Strong arch support – ideal for people who are on their feet all the time
- Convenient clog design – easy to slip on and off
- Attractive look – a cute style lots of people will adore
- Extremely comfortable – although may need to be broken in first
- Easy to wipe down – no problem keeping them looking smart and professional
- Slightly heavy – especially during long shifts
- Pricey option – but most people will be happy with the quality and comfort
Leather upper with a traditional lacing system for easy on-and-off wear
The footbed is removable to accommodate personal orthotics
Although Dansko is best known for making clogs, these tough and durable shoes from the same company are worth a look if you need men’s work footwear.
Since they have a special moisture-wicking interior, they help to keep your feet dry and cool, even during the longest of shifts, and overall, they are an extremely comfortable pair of shoes. They also provide a good degree of support, which will help reduce pain in your back.
With their real leather upper and their synthetic sole, they are made of high-quality materials that will last a long time. The soles also provide plenty of traction, so they will help keep you on your feet, even in slippery environments.
Something to be aware of is that these shoes will need a little bit of breaking in – don’t expect them to be comfortable from the first day. Also, they are just a little bit heavy for work shoes, but most people will forget about this after wearing them for a while.
In sum, a high-quality pair of professional-looking work shoes from a highly reputable company. They may be quite expensive, but they’ll last a long time, so they’re great value for money, making them an option that should be on your radar.
- Versatile footwear – suitable for a range of situations
- Moisture-wicking interior – helps keep your feet cool and dry
- Made of rugged materials – should last a long time
- Good non-slip soles – helps prevent accidents at work
- Provide plenty of support – will help reduce back pain
- Need some breaking in – won’t be comfortable right away
- Slightly heavy – but not a major problem
6. Skechers for Work Men’s Cottonwood Elks Slip Resistant Shoe
Solid Work with Shoe Goodyear Welt
Synthetic sole
If you’re looking for smart footwear that can be worn as dress shoes but that will also stand up to the rigors of the workplace, this model from Sketchers could be just what you need.
They have 100% leather uppers, rubber soles, and memory foam inners, which gives them a whole extra level of comfort.
The soles provide excellent grip, so they would be great for nurses or pharmacy technicians – but also for those who work in other environments like restaurants or auto garages.
We like the way they look – they would be acceptable in most work situations, but they are also stylish enough to wear in your free time – and they’re made to last too, so you won’t need to replace them anytime soon.
One negative to point out is that they tend to crease after being worn only a few times, which detracts from the attractive look. They’re also a bit heavy and clunky for work shoes, so if you’re worried about fatigue, these might not be the right pick for you.
That said, if you need a pair of tough shoes for work that will do a good job of protecting your feet and are slip-resistant, these could be an obvious pick – especially for those who like to get great bang for their buck since they sell for an extremely reasonable price for what they are.
- Memory foam inner – for increased comfort
- Stylish, classy look – ideal for most work environments
- Great value – reasonable price for this kind of quality
- Excellent grip – won’t let you slip over easily
- Made to last – will stand up to plenty of wear and tear
- Crease up after wearing – spoils the appearance
- Heavy and clunky – not great for reducing fatigue
7. Alegria Women’s Keli Professional
Slip-resistant great for slippery surfaces
Polyurethane sole
There are plenty of shoes that might be “suitable” for nurses of pharmacy technicians, but not so many are certified by the American Podiatric Medical Association – which these shoes are. This demonstrates that they are ideal for this kind of use.
They also include a podiatrist-certified removable footbed with arch support, another adaptation that helps ensure these are among the most comfortable shoes you can wear for work, even for the most extended shifts.
Furthermore, they also offer good slip resistance, and they’re ready to go practically right out of the box with little or no breaking-in required.
The biggest problem you might experience with these shoes is that they don’t come out on top when it comes to breathability, so you may find you end your shift with sweaty, smelly feet.
The insole can also start squeaking a little with time, although you can rectify this by adding something like a bit of talcum powder.
These shoes are another slightly expensive option, but many nurses swear by them, and with that kind of backing, they’re an option that is likely to serve you well in a range of professional settings.
- Certified by the American Podiatric Medical Association – ideal for medical workers
- Removable footbed with arch support – podiatrist certified
- Slip-resistant soles – to keep you safe throughout your shift
- Help relieve pain of being on your feet for long periods – comfortable to wear
- Little or no breaking in required – ready to go right from the bo
- Insole can squeak with wear – but possible to solve this issue
- Can cause sweaty feet – not the most breathable shoes
8. Clarks Women’s Cheyn Madi Slip-On Loafer
Very comfortable – great for long shifts
Last a long time
Clarks is a brand that’s been around for around 200 years, so it’s no wonder this is a company that knows a thing or two about making shoes – and it’s also no wonder that the brand has such a loyal following of customers.
With a style that’s suitable for work or leisure, these are versatile shoes. They offer good cushioning and support, so you can wear them for long periods, and like most Clarks footwear, they’re super comfortable too.
We think they’re great value for money, and since they’re made to last, you’ll be wearing them for some time to come.
There’s not much about these shoes we don’t like. We might complain that people with wide feet could find them a bit narrow – although they will stretch with time. Also, they don’t offer the best grip, but if this isn’t too important for you, it shouldn’t be a deal-breaker.
In short, another solid offering from the Clarks brand that delivers everything you would expect. They are reliable, comfortable shoes that are suitable for a range of work environments, making them another recommended pick.
- Great value – less expensive than many other comparable options
- Versatile style – can be worn for work or with casual clothes
- Good support and cushioning – ideal for working long shifts
- Trusted brand – with around 200 years of history
- Last a long time – won’t fall apart quickly
- Too narrow for wide feet – may not give your feet enough room
- Not the best for traction – there are better options for slippery environments
Buying Guide – 6 Points to Look for in when searching for the Best Shoes For Pharmacists and Pharmacy Technicians
If you’re looking for the best shoes for pharmacy technicians, you’re probably wondering about which features and qualities to look for when choosing – so let’s think about this now.
1. Lightweight
One of the most important features to look out for when buying work shoes is that they are shouldn’t be too heavy.
While you might think a little extra weight doesn’t make a lot of difference, during a long shift, the weight of every step you take adds up, causing you to suffer from fatigue in your feet or legs.
2. Slip-resistant
For pharmacy technicians and nurses, choosing a pair of non-slip shoes is vital. You never know when you will step in some kind of spilled liquid, and wearing slip-resistant shoes can help you avoid an accident and stay on your feet.
Look for shoes with soles made of non-slip rubber as well as a good grip pattern to help increase traction.
3. Easy to clean
In the work environment, you never know what’s going to happen from day to day, and you may end up with things being spilled on your shoes.
If this is likely to happen to you, you should consider choosing a pair of shoes that are easy to wipe clean – otherwise, you’ll be wearing the stain until the time comes to buy a new pair of shoes.
4. Comfortable
It almost goes without saying that for long shifts at work, you’ll need a comfortable pair of shoes – but it’s worth mentioning since it’s something that mustn’t be overlooked.
Pay attention to things like the fit of the shoes, whether they need to be worn in and how much cushioning they provide – because getting the right pair of comfortable shoes can be the difference between enjoying your work and suffering throughout your whole shift.
5. Good support
Make sure you buy shoes that offer good support, especially in the arches. Keeping your feet in the correct position while you are working will ensure your feet don’t become fatigued, and it will also help to prevent pain in your legs and lower back.
6. Tough and durable
Work shoes usually don’t come cheap, so you’ll want them to last as long as possible – so don’t forget to choose a pair that are built to last.
The upper should be made of strong material like quality leather or polyurethane, and it should be attached to the sole securely so the two halves won’t detach easily.
Generally speaking, try to choose work shoes that can stand up to a good amount of wear and tear. Avoid choosing the cheapest ones you can find because this can be a false economy – you are likely to need to replace them much sooner, costing you even more money.
Best Shoes For Pharmacists – Frequently Asked Questions
1. What is plantar fasciitis and how do shoes help?
Plantar fasciitis is a common type of foot pain involving inflammation of the tissue along the bottom of your foot.
It can be aggravated by wearing the wrong footwear, especially if you are on your feet for extended periods, but choosing shoes that offer good support, especially to the arches, can alleviate this problem.
2. Which are better, clogs or traditional shoes?
This depends on you since both are suitable for pharmacy technician work. If you value the ability to slip in and out of your shoes as well as breathability, clogs might be the right choice. However, for extra support and protection, traditional shoes can be a better pick.
3. How can you ensure your shoes fit correctly?
Each shoe manufacturer produces shoes that are slightly different in size, so just because you usually take a particular size of shoe, it doesn’t necessarily mean that size will fit you perfectly when you buy a new pair.
The best solution is to measure your feet with a tape measure. Most manufacturers then offer size guides to help you identify the best size for your feet.
Always measure your feet at the end of the day – this is because feet tend to swell up slightly during the day, and measuring them at the end of the day will tell you their size when they are at their largest.
4. Plenty of great options to choose from
As you can see, when it comes to the best shoes for pharmacy technicians, there’s no shortage of great options to choose from.
If you’re on the lookout for a new pair of shoes for work but are having trouble deciding which ones to go for, any of the options in our review would