According to statistics, work-related injuries resulting from falls are the second leading cause of personal injury accidents. The falls might be caused by several factors including uneven flooring, unsecured mats, or slippery floor. Therefore, it is essential as a worker to have the right work shoes to avoid getting into work-related falls. Many professions require you to spend most of your day on your feet. Nurses, restaurant workers, crews, chefs are just some occupations that require you to spend considerable time on your feet. As such, it is essential to have the right shoe not only to ensure your safety but also to your comfort. You do not want to wear footwear that is killing you throughout the day.
You should, therefore, go for shoes that offer foot stability, thus reducing foot fatigue. If you are a person who spends a lot of time on their feet- you have come to the right place. Below are a comprehensive guide and review of the best slip-resistant work shoes.
Best Slip Resistant Work Shoes for Women
Top Slip Resistant Work Shoes for Men
How Do Slip Resistant Shoes Work?
Slip-resistant/non-slip work shoes have a design that makes them safe to walk on slippery surfaces. In hospitals and restaurants at times, the floors might get slippery. If you do not have the proper shoes, you might find yourself in problems as you might fall and injure yourself. The slip-resistant shoes have thicker treads that allow dirt and liquids to pass through well. The treads also create a sanction which improves stability. Most slip resistant work shoes are also comfortable. You can wear them all day long without suffering any discomfort. Some have removable inner soles, and the footbed is naturally shaped.
Slip Resistant Work Shoes for Women
1. Klogs USA Women’s Austin Clog
First on our review is the Klogs USA Women’s Austin Clog. These shoes are a perfect fit for women who want to wear formal yet comfortable shoes. The clog is made of genuine leather, which means that it is durable. It does not matter the work environment. The pump serves you for a long time. The pump is also a slip-on, which means that you will not spend a lot of time putting the shoe on and off. It also has a knuckle to hold it so that it fits your feet.
The shoe is non-slip, so you do not have to worry about working in a slippery environment. It has an outer sole, which is not only excellent at providing grip, but it is also shock absorbing. This means that you will be comfortable even when working on an uneven surface.
- They make it of genuine leather which makes it durable
- Slip-resistant and has a shock-absorbing outer sole
- It has an anti-shock outer sole
- Offers perfect arch support
- It is a slip shoe thus saves time while wearing.
- They are a bit heavy
- Do not fit well on larger feet.
2. New Balance Women’s Slip Resistant 626 V2 Industrial Shoe
The second shoe on our review is the New Balance Women’s 626 V2. This shoe is rightly named Industrial footwear since it is perfect for a prolonged walking or standing day. It has a very comfortable feel to it. You can comfortably walk on any surface without the fear of falling, thanks to its anti-slip outer sole.
The shoe is also made of leather, which means that it is very durable, no matter your work environment. One of the features that set this shoe apart is its long-lasting threads. This means that the pump can continue providing you the perfect grip for a long time. Another significant feature of the shoe is that it is light. This means that you will not have to be worried about extra weight on your feet.
- Made of excellent and durable material
- Has rubber soles which ensure stability
- Its treads are long-lasting
- They are lightweight and extremely comfortable
- The sole is not as durable
- They do not offer as much comfort as some other shoes
3. The Sketchers for Work Women’s Squad SR Food Service Shoe
One of the most striking features of The Sketchers for Work Women’s Squad SR Food Service Shoe is the design. The shoes are well designed, which gives them a stylish look. Their design means that you are flexible to wear with your official clothes or casual clothes. Apart from their exceptional design, the shoes are incredibly comfortable. Comfortable shoes are essential, especially when you spend a long time on your feet, moving around or standing.
These shoes also have a memory foam inner sole. The memory foam makes the shoes very comfortable, particularly on hard surfaces. The outer sole is also of impressive design since it offers excellent traction even on wet and slippery surfaces. The good thing with the shoe is that it allows air circulation. This means you do not have to worry about sweaty feet at all.
- Have great sole which offers perfect traction
- The shoes are insulated to protect you from electrification
- The shoes provide great breathability
- They have a memory foam which offers great comfort
- Lightweight
- The sole does not offer very high traction
- They are not as durable
4. Aravon Women’s Hope AR Slip Resistant Work Shoe
The Aravon Women’s Hope AR Slip Resistant Work Shoe is another excellent choice for non-slip footwear. The purpose of an anti-sip shoe is precisely that- to prevent you from slipping. The Aravon exceeds expectations on this front. The shoe’s sole has excellent treads that provide top-notch grip on wet surfaces. This means that you do not have to worry about walking or rushing to a customer or a patient.
The shoe also has that official look. This will go well with your work clothes. Despite its formal look, the shoe is very comfortable and also very light. They also slip-on shoes which means you will take less time getting into these shoes. Their design makes them expendable since they have a band. This means you have nothing to worry about since the shoe will fit you perfectly.
- Has great anti-slip sole
- Has a perfectly raise the heel
- Perfect for oily, wet and slippery floors
- They are stain-resistant.
- They do not have removable inner soles
- They do not offer much comfort
5. KLOGS Footwear Women’s Naples Leather Closed-Back Nursing Clog
Unlike many other slip-resistant shoes, the KLOGS Footwear Women’s Naples Leather Closed-Back Nursing Clog is not shinny. This, however, does not mean that they are any less comfortable or durable. On the contrary, the shoes are very comfortable, thanks to their supper support. To ensure that you can walk comfortably throughout the day, the shoes have excellent arch support.
This means that your legs will have perfect support. The shoe is made of leather, which means that it is durable, no matter the working conditions. It has a soft rubber, which gives the shoe excellent anti-slip capabilities. The interior of the shoe also sets it apart since it has a padded collar and cushioned footbeds.
- It has a unique look since it is not shiny
- Very comfortable as well as durable
- Offers great arch support
- Lightweight which means you will not tire
- Offers excellent traction on slippery and wet surfaces.
- The heel support is not as great
- The shoe size indicated does not correspond with the actual shoe size
6. Dansko Women’s Paisley Waterproof Outdoor Sneaker
The most striking feature of the Dansko Women’s Paisley Waterproof Outdoor Sneaker is their sporty look. These are the to-go shoes for women who love a unique look. The slip-resistant sneakers are not only sporty looking but also made of leather, which means that they are very durable. They are also water-resistant meaning that your feet will not get wet even if you are working in a wet environment. The shoe offers excellent support thanks to its arch support feature. It also has a triple-density footbed.
This means that it does not matter how rough the surface, the shoe provides a cushion against the rough surface. The footbed is also removable. With the pump, you do not have to worry about sweaty feet thanks to its DuPont Sorona fiber feature, which absorbs excess moisture leaving your feet dry all day long.
- Water and stain resistant
- They have a sporty look
- They are durable
- Have moisture absorbing feature
- Water gets in through the seams
- The shoe squeak
7. New Balance Women’s Fresh Foam Slip Resistant 806 V1 Industrial Shoe
One of the most exceptional features of this shoe is its mesh design, which makes it very breathable. Apart from the breathability that the New Balance Women’s Fresh Foam Slip Resistant 806 V1 Industrial Shoe offers, it is exceptionally durable. Its treads are also well designed, which means that the shoe provides great traction even on wet and dry surfaces. The shoes also have memory foam inner soles, which add to the comfort of the shoe.
This means that the shoe allows you to perform your duties without any discomfort. The shoes are also very easy to clean, so you do not have to worry even if you work in an environment which is not as clean. It is also lightweight; therefore, you do not have to worry about extra weight on your feet.
- It is very lightweight
- The shoe is durable
- It is very easy to clean
- Has great anti-slip outer soles
- Has a unique design.
- Can be tight at the toes
- Some do not fit well
8. New Balance Women’s Fresh Foam Arishi V3 Running Shoe
One of the greatest features of this shoe is its no-sew design. This means that you get a seam-free fit. The shoe offers great anti-slip properties that will protect you from falling on slippery or wet floors. The shoe’s midsole is made from Fresh Foam. This makes it very comfortable to wear, which is important especially when you spend the whole day on your feet.
It also has a mesh design, which improves breathability, ensuring that you do not have an issue with sweaty feet. The shoe also offers great stability while walking and standing. The New Balance Women’s shoe is lightweight, which means that you will not have to carry extra weight on your feet.
- Lightweight
- Has a seamless supper design
- Offers great traction
- The shoe is very comfortable
- It has a Fresh Foam midsole, which enhances the stability and balances the shoe offers.
- The foam element is a bit stiff
- Has a wide toe box
Slip Resistant Work Shoes for Men
Men are also not left out when it comes to slip-resistant work shoes. There are a few options in the market. Below is a review of the top slip-resistant shoes for men.
1. New Balance Men’s Slip-Resistant 626 V2 Industrial Shoe
These shoes have some fantastic features, which gives you that comfortable feeling throughout the day. Its outer sole is ASTM F tested and has a test score of 0.7 on wet and dry conditions. On oily, soapy, and wet conditions, it has a test result of 0.5. These high scores mean that it is a very reliable shoe.
Its upper is made of leather, which means that it is exceptionally durable. It is also breathable, which means that you do not have to worry about sweaty feet. The shoe offers excellent cushioning, support, and stability. The shoe has great anti-slip soles. The pump is also non–marking, so it will not leave marks on the floor. It is also a perfect fit for people with wide feet.
- Has an arch support
- It has a contoured footbed
- Has great anti-slip soles
- It is breathable
- It is appropriate for people with wide feet.
- Not very durable
- It is difficult to clean the outer soles
2. Skechers Men’s Cessnock Food Service Shoe
Sketchers is a company that has been in the shoe manufacturing industry for a very long time. As such, they have perfected the art of making high-quality slip-resistant shoes like the Sketchers Men’s Cessnock Food Service Shoe. The pump is very comfortable and lets you work with ease, even on slippery surfaces. The shoe has a Relaxed Fir design, which means that it is a comfortable wear and caters to men with larger feet.
The shoe comes with a memory foam innersoles, which acts as a shock absorber, thus cushioning you from uneven surfaces. The Cessnock has a soft upper part made from a soft material, which adds to the shoe’s comfort. To ensure that the shoe fits well, it has a lace-up style. The laces are also synthetic, which means they are strong and hold the pump securely into place.
- Lightweight
- Very durable
- Great anti-slip properties
- Has a lace-up style for a more secure fit
- Has memory foam inner sole.
- The memory foam is not as thick
- Not as breathable
3. Timberland PRO Men’s Power train Sport Alloy-Toe EH Industrial & Construction Shoe
Timberland is another shoemaking company that has made a name for itself when it comes to footwear. The Timberland PRO Men’s Power train Sport Alloy-Toe EH Industrial & Construction Shoe is, therefore, a high-quality slip-resistant shoe from the company.
To begin with, these men’s shoes have a modern look, which will make any person feel confident to step out. One of the greatest features of the Power train shoes is their allow safety toes. With the toe protection, you are protected from injury when you accidentally knock your feet against objects at your workplace.
The shoes also have mesh linings, which makes them breathable and so you do not have to worry about your feet sweating. It also has anti-odor treatment, which prevents your feet from producing odor even when you wear the shoe all day long.
- They have alloy safety toes for increased protection
- High-quality shoes with a breathable mesh construction
- They offer very high-quality traction to help you walk comfortably or slippery surfaces
- Have an outer sole with an ant fatigue technology
- They have odor prevention technology
- They are very comfortable.
- They are not as durable as other shoe models in the same price range
- They fit a bit too tight
4. Skechers for Work Men’s Flex Advantage Mcallen Food Service Shoe
Step out in style and comfort with the Mcallen brand. The shoe has a great design, which means that it will set you apart as you do your job. It is also very durable because it is made of synthetic material on its upper part. It has rubber soles with long-lasting treads, which means that you will not have to worry about falling on slippery surfaces any time soon.
The shoe has memory foam inner sole, which absorbs shock from uneven surfaces. This means it does not matter the surface you are walking on. You will feel as comfortable as ever. The shoes are also lightweight, which means that you can walk all day without tiring due to the weight of the footwear.
- The soles offer great slip-resistant properties
- It comes with a mechanism to protect you from electrocution
- It is water and stain resistant so you can comfortably work on wet conditions
- Has memory foam inner sole
- They make the upper part of durable mesh fabric material, which makes it durable and breathable.
- They are not water-resistant
- They stain easily
5. Shoes for Crews Men’s Freestyle II Slip Resistant Food Service Work Sneaker
A shoe for Crews is a company that has been in operation for over 36 years. This means that the company has perfected the art of manufacturing high-quality slip-resistant (non-slip) shoes. The shoes are not only durable but also very comfortable.
The shoe is 100% synthetic. For a pleasant time at work as far as footwear is concerned, you need a shoe that will give you service for a long time. Freestyle II is your solution. The shoe also comes with a removable inner sole. This means that you can take off the inner sole at any time that you do not deem it necessary. The shoe offers a great design in its treads. Therefore, it gives you excellent traction even on wet surfaces.
- 100% synthetic
- Durable and lightweight
- Offers great traction
- It has a removable inner sole.
- They have a sporty feel.
- They are not as breathable
- They peel off after exposure to water
6. Dr. Scholl’s Shoes Men’s Harrington II Work Shoe
Dr. Scholl’s shoes are the definition of durability. If you want a durable shoe, then Dr. Scholl’s should be your shoe of choice. Apart from its durability, the pump is also oil-resistant and offers excellent traction making it a great work shoe. It is made of 100% upper leather and has a 4- eyelet lacing system, which means you can tighten the shoe to your liking.
The shoe has Aegid Microbe Shield control, which means that you do not have to worry about odors even after spending your entire day on the move. It also has an anti-compression inner sole made of memory foam, which increases its comfortability. Most importantly, it has a perfectly raised platform.
- Very durable
- Offers excellent slip-resistant properties
- Offers feet protection since the shoe is strong
- Made of leather
- Has anti-odor technology
- Has memory foam inner sole which adds to the comfort
- They are a bit heavy.
7. VANGELO Professional Slip Resistant Clog
One of the greatest features of this durable slip-on shoe is its lightweight. The Vangelo Professional slip-resistant men’s shoe is the perfect shoe if you spend your working day on the move. The pump is made of EVA foam, which adds to the general comfort of the shoe.
It is a perfect fit for people who work in the hospital, hotel, and catering industry because it is very easy to clean and sanitize. The shoe is also anti-stain and also water-resistant. The shoe has a slip-on design, which means that it is easy to wear and remove the pump, thus saving you time.
- Very easy to clean and sanitize
- Offers great traction
- It is a slip-on therefore easy to wear
- It is lightweight and very comfortable
- Meets and exceeds ASTM industry standards.
- Not very durable
- They are not as breathable
Factors to Consider Before Buying Slip-Resistant Shoes for Work
Before you shop for slip-resistant shoes, there are a few factors that you should into consideration. Slip-resistant footwear is supposed to protect you from falling when you walk on slippery or wet surfaces. The factors that you should into consideration when shopping for a slip-resistant shoe include:
- Comfort
- Grip/slip-resistant
- Size
- Durability
- Style
- Breathability
Comfort
Comfort is the first and foremost factor that you should consider when buying a slip-resistant shoe. Since you spend a lot of time on your feet, it is important to find comfortable shoes to protect you from feet fatigue.
When buying a slip-resistant shoe, ensure that you get one with a memory foam innersole or one with an inner sole that will provide some kind of shock absorption on your feet. Also, ensure that you get a shoe that has a proper arch to give the appropriate balance to your feet.
Ensure that the shoe that you buy is also light, as it will be more comfortable on your feet.
Grip/slip-resistant
Another very crucial factor that you should consider when buying a slip-resistant shoe is the grip. For a shoe to be slip-resistant, it should have a great grip. The main purpose of a slip-resistant shoe is to protect you from falling when you walk on wet or slippery surfaces.
The treads of a shoe determine the grip that the shoe offers. Wide treads are good but do not go for shoes with very wide treads because they do not provide as much grip. Also, ensure that the grips are spaced in such a way that it is easy for dirt and water to pass through.
Size
A shoe size is another important factor that you should consider when buying a slip-resistant shoe. Finding the right-sized shoe is important for any type of shoe but more so for slip-resistant shoes. If the shoe does not fit well, you will get uncomfortable pretty fast.
Some slip-resistant shoes have a band that makes them more expandable thus fitting different sizes of feet. The size of the shoe is important since large shoes, just like small shoes will be uncomfortable and you will not be able to move well. Therefore, it is important to find a shoe that fits well in order to avoid any discomfort.
Durability
The fourth factor that you should consider while buying a slip-resistant shoe is the durability. Different shoes have different durability period. The material that the shoe is made of determines its durability. Some shoes are made of leather, while others are made from synthetic material.
However, you should note that for a shoe to be durable, you have to take good care of the shoe. Some shoes are also water and stain-resistant. This means that they are more durable than the shoes which are not water-resistant.
Style
Everyone wants to look stylish. Thankfully, there are slip-resistant shoes that are stylish. The design of the shoe determines its style. Some shoes are slip while others have laces. Slip ones have an advantage in that they do not require a lot of time to wear them. The shoes with the lace feature are also good since you can tighten them or loosen them to your liking.
As earlier stated, different slip-resistant shoes have different styles. The style of some shoes allows you to wear them with your official clothes. Other styles allow you to wear the shoe with casual clothes. Other styles allow you to wear them with any kind of clothes.
Breathability
The last factor that you should consider when buying a shoe is breathability. It is important to get a shoe that allows air to move freely on your feet. When a shoe does not allow air to move freely, you might get sweaty, which can make you uncomfortable. A pump that allows breathability is preferable since it eliminates the odors brought about by the sweat.
Frequently Asked Questions
What makes slip-resistant shoes?
The treads are what make slip-resistant shoes. To provide grip, the outer soles have treads that allow water and other substance to move through freely. The treads are of different widths which offer different levels of grips.
How do I make my shoe slip-resistant?
The trick to make your shoe slip-resistant is making the outer sole rough. You can use sandpaper for this purpose. You can also a nail file to get the same results. The aim is to change your soles from being soft and smooth to make them rough.
Are slip-on boots OSHA approved?
Yes, slip-on boots are OSHA approved. The only requirement is to meet the Occupational Safety and Health Administration Standards (OSHA). There are many slips-on boots that are slip-resistant and OSHA approved.
Does Nike make slip-resistant shoes for work?
No. Nike is a company that has been in the shoemaking industry for a long time. As such, the company has many high-quality shoes in the market. Regardless, the company specializes in sports shoes that have a great traction thus not 100% suitable for the workplace.
Is slip-resistant and oil-resistant the same?
Yes, there is a difference between oil and slip-resistant shoes. Oil-resistant shoes are specifically manufactured to be used on floors that have chemical, acid, or petroleum spillages. Oil-resistant shoes are not the same as slip-resistant shoes although they also offer great traction.
How do I know if my shoes are non-slip?
A majority of non – slip shoes have a rubber outer sole. However, this does not mean that all shoes with a rubber sole are non slip. Non-slip shoes are with treads which give the shoe a grip thus prevent you from falling.
Is rubber slip-resistant?
Rubber is a great material especially on slippery floors since it offers great traction. However, for the rubber to serve its purpose well, it must have treads with the right width.
Are Air maxes non slip?
No. Air maxes are from Nike brand which is considered to have stopped manufacturing non-slip shoes for more than four years. Air max are also not non-slip because the shoes are developed to be used on the court or the tracks as opposed to restaurants or other workplaces.
How should you clean the Non-slip work shoes?
The shoe’s material is the determining factor on the method you should use to clean the pump. For water-resistant shoes using a soft cloth will do the trick. Use a detergent to clean the outer sole after removing the dirt that might be lounged between the treads.
Final Thoughts
Slip-resistant shoes are very important especially for people who work on sites with slippery floors. Accidents that cause personal injury are very common and attribute to a huge loss for businesses. It is therefore important as a worker to have the right shoes for the work environment. There are different models of non-slip shoes in the market. The choice of shoes to buy mainly depends on comfort, durability, style, breathability, and grip.
We believe that you now have the necessary knowledge to make an informed decision when it comes to non- slip shoes.