Behind every exquisite dish that arrives at your table in a restaurant or even your home is the chef. The chef is supported by multiple hardworking people, including the prep chef, the sous chef, the server, the dishwasher, and more. They stand for hours on end, chopping, creating, and cooking, loudly calling “behind” as they maneuver expertly around the kitchen to avoid colliding with teammates carrying food, liquids, and utensils. That’s why there are the best shoes for working in the kitchen, which allow us to stand for hours together, navigate spills, quickly stop in our tracks, and zip across wherever we’re needed to be. Not only are these shoes durable, slip-resistant, and supportive, but they also avoid falls and slips and protect our feet from sharp kitchen utensils and objects. Here’s a useful guide to the best footwear for working long hours in the kitchen effectively and efficiently.
Table of contents
Sanita Professional Cabrio Clogs
13
We begin with the Sanita Professional Cabrio Clogs, boasting a traditional clog silhouette. Available in two colors, black and brown, these clogs boasted a cushioned, leather-lined, comfortable footbed and a sturdy full leather upper. Thanks to the .75-inch platform and a 1.75-inch heel, they were shock-absorbing as well. Moreover, the synthetic outsole provided enough grip so we wouldn’t slip on wet kitchen floors. Since we spend hours on our feet, we appreciated the oodles of arch support these shoes provided. Wrapping things up was the fact that these shoes fit more snugly than other popular clog brands.
Pros
- These shoes were very supportive and durable.
- They were extremely comfortable, too.
- These clogs came in multiple sizes and three widths.
Cons
- They tend to fit snugly, so you may have to size up for a more comfortable fit.
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Dansko LT Pro Clogs
12
Dansko is known for its extremely comfortable footwear, and the Dansko LT Pro Clogs were no exception. They were perfect for standing on our feet for extended periods of time. A lighter version of the brand’s popular Professional Clog, which is near the bottom, or rather, near the top of this list, the shoes weighed just 15 oz., which is around half a lb less than the original. What’s more, they were super easy to put on and take off, while the leather build rendered them very durable. Rounding up the features was the polyurethane outsole, which provided lots of traction, ensuring that we wouldn’t slip in the kitchen.
Pros
- They were made from high-quality leather.
- The shoes provided excellent support for average arches.
- They were very easy to clean.
Cons
- They might not fit very wide or narrow feet.
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Crocs On The Clock Work Clogs
11
The brand designed the Crocs On The Clock Work Clogs for healthcare and service industry workers who would spend long days or nights on their feet and were watching their budget too. Costing us less than USD 40, these shoes featured an excellent, single-piece construction. That meant that there were no seams or stitches that could fall apart with wear later. What’s more, these clogs were very lightweight, crafted from synthetic material, and featured a cushioned insole with excellent arch support. Besides the fact that they were comfortable out of the box, the shoes also had a sturdy construction and a roomy toe box. Finally, the small grips on the sole offered tons of traction without catching.
Pros
- These shoes were very lightweight.
- We loved the single-piece construction.
- The upper material was very easy to keep and wipe clean.
Cons
- They don’t come in half sizes.
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SeaVees Bolina Boots
10
The SeaVees Bolina Boots are essentially rain boots, but not the sad, bulky gumboots we’re used to seeing during the rainy season. Rather, they were very fashionable, plush, and comfortable once we broke them in. They were especially a blefor wet and rainy days, when we’d all slop into the kitchen and the floor would permanently be wet due to other messy kitchen tasks too, like breaking down a large cut of fish or meat. Finally, what we really loved was that they came in multiple sensible and fun colors, too, including a vibrant yellow.
Pros
- The boots came in multiple colors and sizes.
- We loved the ultra-grooved, heeled outsole.
- Thanks to the heritage webbing pull tabs at the front and back, we could easily put them on and take them off.
Cons
- The boots didn’t have half sizes.
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Birkenstock Tokio Super Grip Leather Sandals
9
The Birkenstock Tokio Super Grip Leather Sandals were yet another pair of Birkenstocks we loved. There were many things we loved about these Birkis, starting with the fact that they were super grippy. The tread-like, ultra non-slip bottom ensured that we were always firm on our feet, no matter how slippery the kitchen floor was. We also loved their adjustable heel strap, which ensured a secure fit. While they required some breaking in, they were extremely comfortable for hours of wear. Finally, we liked the exceptional stability that the backstrap provided, while the sandals were still easy to slip on and pull off.
Pros
- These clogs were unique and different from the others, and yet very comfortable.
- The tread and traction they provided were excellent.
- We loved the adjustable heel strap.
Cons
- They’re a bit stiff and require some breaking in.
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Crocs Bistro Graphic Clogs
8
We can’t talk about clogs being great kitchen footwear without mentioning the OG clogs brand now, can we? Behold the Crocs Bistro Graphic Clogs, which boasted a solid upper, unlike most standard perforated Crocs. Not only were they breathable, supportive, and wide, but they were also extremely easy to wash. So, we didn’t have to worry too much about stains and splatters while puttering around the kitchen. Thanks to the optional heel strap, we could wear them up behind the ankles or swing them down for a little more security. Finally, the bottom of the shoes featured a crosshatched texture that was super grippy, even on the slippery linoleum kitchen floors.
Pros
- These shoes could easily be cleaned with soap and water.
- Unlike most other clogs, they had a solid upper and came in some funky colors.
- The heel strap was optional.
Cons
- It didn’t have too many plain color options.
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Calzuro Classic Work Clogs
7
The Calzuro Classic Work Clogs checked a lot of boxes for a good kitchen shoe: bumps on the footbed that kept our feet from sliding around, side vents, and a supportive heel. What’s more, they were more comfortable than they looked, or we thought, thanks to the seamless construction and the grippy bottoms. Despite the inside of the shoes being textured, they didn’t hurt our feet and we eventually even forgot about it when we were wearing them! The best bit? We could simply throw them into the washing machine or dishwasher for cleaning! What more could we ask for?
“These clogs were different from the other clogs we’d worn, especially the side vents that kept our feet breathable all the time.”
Dizzzi
Pros
- They came in multiple sizes, including half sizes.
- The clogs came in multiple colors and were snazzy.
- Despite being clogs, they were comfortable.
Cons
- The shoes might be a bit narrow for those with wide feet.
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Birkenstock Super-Birki Clogs
6
The Birkenstock Super-Birki Clogs are the second pair of Birkenstocks on this list. These Birkis were not only light on our feet, but also very easy to put on. What’s more, they were quite durable, with our footwear poised to last a long time. Thanks to the removable cork-latex footbed, it conformed to our feet, with the moisture-wicking fabric ensuring breathability. Not only was the polyurethane sole grease- and oil-resistant, but it was also easy to disinfect and could handle temperatures up to 176 degrees. Overall, they worked well on great floors, were steadfastly anti-slip, durable, and incredibly easy to clean.
Check out the official product page.
Pros
- Anatomically shaped cork-latex footbed
- Versatile
- Can be disinfected
Cons
- Footbed wears off easily
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Sloggers Rain & Garden Shoes
5
Best value for money. Kitchen footwear doesn’t have to break the bank, like we found out with the Sloggers Rain & Garden Shoes. These slick, waterproof shoes are incredibly versatile and able to withstand muddy gardens, messy kitchens, or everyday household tasks with maximum comfort. We wore these shoes for up to eight hours at a time with no discomfort. In fact, we didn’t even experience any sores or blisters while breaking them in. However, one of our favorite things about these shoes was how secure they felt, which meant we never had to worry that they would slip off when we walked around the kitchen. Finally, they were very easy to clean, thanks to the slick waterproof surface.
Pros
- These shoes come in many fun designs.
- We loved how easy these shoes were to clean.
- The shoes boasted a snug and comfortable fit.
Cons
- The tread grip is so-so.
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Dr. Martens 1460 Slip Resistant Service Boots
4
The Dr. Martens 1460 Slip Resistant Service Boots were made for both work and play. There were many things we loved about these boots, starting with the fact that they had an enhanced grip and great support. So, we felt secure when we’d be dashing around on the greased floors of the kitchen. What’s more, the insole of the shoes boasted memory foam for nice, cushioned footbeds, even featuring air pockets to reduce foot strain and fatigue. Crafted from water-resistant, industrial leather, these Dr. Martens could be wiped clean easily. All in all, these were versatile shoes that went with practically every outfit we wore to work.
Pros
- Anti-fatigue design
- Ergonomic footbed
- Enhanced grip
Cons
- They take time to break in.
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Blundstone Unisex-Adult 510 Boots
3
Best boots. The Blundstone Unisex-Adult 510 Boots were one tough pair of total coverage shoes that protected us against all possible hazards in the kitchen. What’s more, it provided excellent support while being extremely comfortable when we would stand for long hours. Designed keeping safety in mind, these boots boasted a slip-resistant sole, a water-resistant leather upper, as well as a steel shank that ensured the right step flex point. Thanks to the removable, breathable, and anti-bacterial footbed, we could not only wash it but also enjoy excellent arch support.
Pros
- Thanks to the generous toe box, our feet felt free all day long.
- We loved that the boots were heat-resistant.
- The boots are extremely versatile.
Cons
- They’re quite heavy.
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Dansko Professional Slip-On Clogs
2
Best clogs. Are clogs the best work shoes? Yep, you read that right. Behold the Dansko Professional Slip-On Clogs. Kitchen professionals swear by Dansko footwear as it provides much-needed and excellent comfort for the entire day. What’s more, these stylish and durable slip-on clogs featured two options for uppers: leather and fabric. Thanks to the padded instep collars, we were extremely comfortable when we kept dashing across the kitchen multiple times a day. The reinforced and roomy toe box kept our toes protected from sharp and heavy kitchen instruments, but also there was lots of space for us to wiggle our toes. Rounding up the features was the PU outsole with the rocker bottom that helped propel our feet forward and provided excellent shock absorption.
Pros
- This brand is orthopedic doctor-recommended for professionals standing at work.
- These shoes come in many sizes and colors.
- These shoes were durable and waterproof.
Cons
- They might feel a bit bulky at first.
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Birkenstock Profi-Birki Polyurethane Clogs
1
Best overall. The Birkenstock Profi-Birki Polyurethane Clogs also happen to be one of the best shoes for hairstylists. Yes, the best product on this list is a pair of clogs, but hey, we can’t help it when it’s these amazing clogs. Available in both women’s and men’s sizes, including half sizes, these Birki clogs were crafted from durable materials and provided excellent support and comfort to our feet. Moreover, the slip-resistant sole also greatly avoids slips and falls, which was especially important in slippery and wet environments like the kitchen where we worked.
But what set these clogs apart above all was their cork footbed, which we could even remove and shape to fit our foot contours for even better and customized support. If that wasn’t enough, the adjustable strap ensured a secure and comfy fit. Oh, and also, the shoes came in a range of colors and styles, including the gorgeous, fiery red below.
Pros
- The clogs were slip-resistant.
- They were supportive and comfy.
- These clogs were very stylish and easy to clean.
Cons
- They’re a bit bulky, but they’re great.
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Our Verdict!
While we loved all the kitchen shoes on this list, here’s a smaller list that will actually help you make a decision.
- Best value for money: Sloggers Rain & Garden Shoes
- Best overall: Birkenstock Profi-Birki Polyurethane Clogs
- Best boots: Blundstone Unisex-Adult 510 Boots
- Best clogs: Dansko Professional Slip-On Clogs
How To Choose The Best Shoes For Working in the Kitchen?
Slip-On, No-Lace Styles
Laces are an unnecessary tripping hazard, and even more so for people working in the kitchen. That’s why no-lace, slip-on style shoes are very popular with those who work in the kitchen. Not only can our shoes never come undone but also we’d avoid a ton of potential trips and falls when carrying nicely presented meals and hot pans across the kitchen. Plus, laced shoes are dangerous not just for the wearer but also for others, as they could easily trip over them too.
Slip-Resistant Outsoles
Falls, trips, and slips are the most common workplace accidents worldwide, and even more so in a busy, bustling, and hectic kitchen environment. Spilt condiments, food debris, and especially liquids or the cleaning and mopping up of a spill can make floors very dangerous. This, when combined with the fact that kitchen workers are usually dashing around, greatly increases the risks of falls, trips, and slips. That’s why we choose shoes with slip-resistant soles, which keep us confident on our feet and completely productive in our work.
Ventilation
Standing on our feet for long periods of time in a hot kitchen has our feet gasping for air and ventilation. Wearing a shoe with no breathability or ventilation for the feet can cause them to become uncomfortable, warm, and even start to smell. When the feet sweat, they could start to rub against themselves too, which could lead to uncomfortable blistering and chafing that makes it even harder to push your limits and work harder. That’s why we look for breathable shoes, like ones with strategically placed mesh panels that keep our feet comfy and cool.
Security
Finally, working in the kitchen involves working around sharp equipment like cooking knives, meat cleavers, and more. That’s why we looked for shoes with puncture-resistant steel toes that would prevent such sharp objects from doing any damage to our feet.
In terms of safety, many good kitchen shoes are CE certified at the very least. This allows us to relax as it’s guaranteed that our footwear will keep us safe from the different hazards in the kitchen.
Water Resistant
Finally, soggy feet are the bane of everyone’s existence, and when you have soggy feet while working, and that too in the kitchen – well, let’s just say, it’s the worst that can happen. That’s why working in the kitchen requires water-resistant shoes too.
Should Everyone In The kitchen wear Kitchen shoes?
Ideally, yes, as these shoes are designed to make working anywhere in the kitchen safer, whether it’s the chef, the prep cook, the server, or the dishwasher.
Are steel-toe shoes important for Kitchen Workers?
Usually, chefs aren’t required to wear steel-toe shoes, but they can provide protection to workers who use knives, cleavers, and handle heavy utensils and kitchen equipment.
How do you clean chef’s shoes?
Use a damp cloth and a light brush to get the spills and dirt off the shoes. For the outsole, spray the shoes with a garden hose and allow them to dry completely.