Best Shoes For Restaurant Work
, by Ed Stone, 10 min reading time
Before we dive into the list, let's consider what makes a shoe ideal for restaurant work. Here are some qualifications we took into consideration when developing our list for both men and women's shoes:
- Comfort
- Moisture Wicking
- Ease of Use
- Foot Security/Safety
- Slip Resistant
- How easily it can be cleaned
Generally, the best shoe for restaurant work will be comfortable, durable, and, most importantly - slip-resistant!
This list features the top seven choices for men, the top seven choices for women, and Boot World's selection for the best unisex slip-resistant shoe for restaurant work. Without further ado, let's dive into the best shoes for restaurant work!
Top men's slip-resistant shoes best suited for restaurant work:
1) KEEN Utility PTC Slip Resistant Oxford
This casual yet polished anti-slip professional men’s shoe with a Scandinavian design, dresses up work uniforms for a variety of industries and double as a casual everyday shoe. The PTC is crafted with a premium water-resistant leather upper that cleans easily with a damp cloth to keep you looking professional around the clock.
These slip-resistant shoes for restaurant work provide layers of comfort to get you through a long shift and are suited for long periods of standing or walking. The PTC is lined with moisture wicking mesh for breathable comfort and wide toe box that allows extra wiggle room and mobility. The removable dual density footbed is made of a blend of recycled polyurethane and cork and topped with a layer of memory foam for all-day support and comfort. Lightweight and flexible, the high-performance shock absorbing midsole minimizes fatigue and maximizes the comfort level. Best of all, this restaurant-worthy shoe comes equipped with an oil and slip-resistant outsole that provides excellent slip resistance and gets Boot World’s approval with the highest slip-resistant rating.
2) Laforst Custer Slip-Resistant Work Shoe
This hybrid slip-resistant slip-on shoe for restaurant work combines the looks and function of a skate shoe with vulcanized construction and the look of a Chukka boot in an ultra slip-resistant style. The Custer offers a professional look with an easy to clean oil and water resistant leather upper
Insanely comfortable, the Custer non-slip work shoe keeps feet fresh and energized thanks to the high-density shock absorbing footbed and you may find yourself wearing this shoe long after your shift is over. Plus, it offers the best slip resistance on wet and oily surfaces.
3) CAT Footwear ProRush SR+ Slip-on
For those who want to remain balanced, nimble, and even a little athletic at their job in the restaurant industry, this slip-resistant slip-on shoe for restaurant work is the ideal choice.
This shoe can easily be dressed up or down, and with an oil/water resistant finish, you never have to worry about these shoes getting dirty (a must for any restaurant worker). Finally, these shoes are extremely lightweight and feature moisture-wicking insoles, so your feet stay dry and comfortable. If you can't stand the heat, grab these shoes and get back in the kitchen!
4) CAT Footwear ProRush SR+ Chukka
Similar to the ProRush slip-on featured above, this shoe is for those who need extra comfort and support. Whereas the ProRush slip-on allows for nimble movement due to its lower cut and lighter materials, the ProRush Chukka features a higher cut for greater support and superior durability.
Additionally, the Chukka features a lace-up tongue, ideal for those who need to ensure their shoes stay secure and fitted based on their comfort preferences. Slip-resistant, moisture-wicking, and relatively lightweight, this is a great choice for a slip-resistant shoe geared toward restaurant work.
5) Men's Emeril Lagasse Quarter Slip-On
This phenomenal slip-on/slip-resistant shoe for restaurant work doesn't just bear the name of one of food's greatest known stars; it also features an easy slip-on approach to restaurant-worthy shoes.
Featuring a quarter rise upper, this shoe is the perfect height for maximum support and maximum agility, perfectly blending convenience, comfort, and reliability, making it an ideal choice for a hospitality position. A job in the restaurant industry is no place for an uncomfortable shoe. Make sure your feet are as comfortable as they are safe with this slip-resistant slip-on shoe for restaurant work.
6 ) Dr. Martens 1461 Mono Slip Resistant Oxford Work Shoe
Never underestimate what a durable shoe can do for your aching feet and knees during a long shift at your restaurant job, especially if you're a server.
The Dr. Marten 1461, designed specifically for the demands of industries like restaurant work, helps keep your feet comfortable and your legs sturdy by providing a secure, slip-resistant base you can count on. This slip resistant work shoe for restaurant work features antimicrobial linings, spill-resistant outers, and a three-eye lacing system for added comfort and security.
7) Nunn Bush Sherman Slip Resistant Plain Toe Oxford
This anti-slip men's vegan dress shoe doubles as a work shoe for restaurant and hospitality work and as a dress shoe for those special events in your life. The vegan leather upper with a classic lace design keeps you looking sharp and the upper is super easy to clean by wiping it off.
You’ll have peace of mind knowing the breathable moisture wicking linings are enhanced with odor-fighting technology all while keeping feet cool and comfortable. This ultra slip-resistant work oxford is also super comfortable with a pillowy soft memory foam foot bed and is the right fit when slippery surfaces are ever-present.
Here are the top seven women's slip-resistant shoes best suited for restaurant work:
1) Women's Emeril Lagasse Quarter Slip-On Mesh
Breathability is crucial in a shoe that you're wearing for 8 hours at a time, and that's exactly why the Emeril Lagasse Quarter Slip-On Mesh leads off our list of women's slip resistant shoes for restaurant work.
These extremely versatile shoes can be worn all over the rest
aurant, so whether you're serving, tending bar, or heating things up in the kitchen, your feet can be protected and well ventilated for long-lasting comfort and support.2) Skechers Work Soft Stride Softie Work Shoe
This Skechers favorite non-slip sneaker is popular for good reason. It offers lots of cushioned support and comfort and it’s a perfect choice for food service. Comfortable out of the box, this athletic slip resistant shoe maximizes comfort with a super cushioned shock absorbing insole and thick supportive midsole design.
The Soft Stride Softie also features moisture wicking linings and a perforated vamp for breathable comfort. Easy to clean, easy to slip into, and ultra- slip resistant, this slip resistant tennis shoe will carry you beyond your shift in comfort.
3) Women's Emeril Lagasse Dixon Slip Resistant Athletic Shoe
If you are on your feet every day and need a good supportive slip resistant work shoe, then this athletic slip resistant shoe is for you. Designed by top chef Emeril Lagasse with years of experience in a kitchen, these non-slip black work shoes are tailored for a restaurant environment.
This slip resistant sneaker features a coated leather upper for easy cleaning, ultra-cushioning memory foam insole, shock absorbing midsole, and EZ-FIT design that provides a generous fit for width. Not only is this work sneaker supportive with a generous fit but it also provides breathable odor resisting mesh linings and maximum slip resistance!
4) Women's Laforst Fusion Xtreme Comfort Slip-Resistant Platform Sneaker
Not only is this platform sneaker uber cute but it’s also extremely slip resistant! The rocker bottom actually propels your foot forward with each step, ensuring that these slip-resistant shoes for restaurant work can get you through even the longest days on your feet. This cute slip resistant sneaker features a breathable mesh upper, moisture absorbent mesh linings, super cushioned insole, and thick midsole to provide a matrix of Xtreme comfort. Dickies Supa Dupa Low Slip-Resistant Shoe5) Women’s Genuine Grip Sport Classic Slip Resistant Shoe
Standing long hours on your feet can cause tired feet and a sore back. This non-sense slip resistant sneaker designed for work in the service industries, gets you through a long shift with loads of support and comfort. It’s lightweight, easy to clean, flexible, and responsive.
Comfort is key with this non-slip restaurant shoe that combats fatigue with a polyurethane cushion insole and EVA midsole to return energy and provide support while adding bounce to your step. For sure footed support and Cadillac comfort, this slip resistant tennis shoe is for you.
6) KEEN Utility PTC Slip Resistant Oxford Shoe
If you're looking for a custom shoe without paying a custom price, then the KEEN Utility PTC Slip Resistant Oxford Shoe is the shoe for you. This shoe features a removable insole that molds to your foot! Made of cork, polyurethane, and memory foam, the superior insole of this non slip shoe provides maximum shock-absorbing power for all-day comfort.
This shoe also features a Scandinavian design specifically geared to fit a woman's foot better, complete with a toe box that allows for extra room for your toes.
Keen is known for their durability and this one specifically has a very durable leather upper.
7) CAT Footwear ProRush SR+ Slip On
Designed with a fatigue fighting EVA cushion insole and thick elevated midsole, this slip resistant slip-on is designed to put space between the foot and the ground providing serious cushioning comfort. The leather is coated to repel oil and water to ensure you always look on point with this stylish slip resistant shoe.
The outsole of this slip-on shoe for restaurant work is perfect for preventing unwanted slips on even the most slippery surfaces and its flexible for ease of movement. Plus, the soft moisture absorbent linings are breathable adding an additional layer of comfort in this lightweight design.
*BONUS SELECTION*
Klogs Springfield slip-resistant clog
This clog is ideally suited for kitchen work as it is made with a tough working environment in mind. Complete with easy-to-clean polyurethane uppers, padded collar for ankle support and increased comfort, and contoured slip resistant outsole for all-day shock-absorbing arch support, this unisex clog is the perfect non-slip restaurant shoe for line cooks, sous chefs, and head chefs alike.Selecting Your Next Pair Of Shoes For Restaurant Work
At Boot World, we know that the demands and rigors of your restaurant job are the toughest on your feet. Hopefully, this list has given you an idea of where to begin your search for the best non-slip restaurant shoes. Ideally, the right shoe should be comfortable and easy to wear while protecting your feet from the treacherous conditions that come from working in a restaurant.
For more help about which shoes might best suit your needs, reach out to one of our qualified representatives! Your safety and comfort are our priority, and whether you are looking for the narrow fitting work boots, best work boots for wide feet, or even the best construction boots. Whether you’re spending all day in a kitchen, running the dining area, or are in charge of hospitality, we're here to help you find the perfect shoes for your job in the restaurant industry!