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It’s not easy being a chef. You’re constantly busy and on your feet, which can be tough on your body. That’s why it’s important to choose the right shoes for the job.
We asked seasoned chefs what shoes they liked to wear to decrease fatigue, increase safety, and navigate safely through a busy kitchen.
12 Best Chef Shoes for Safe Work in the Kitchen
With all the options in today’s market, finding the best chef shoes has never been easier. However, having so many possibilities served to you, can sometimes be confusing as to which option to pick.
That’s why we present to you this guide that showcases twelve top rated chef shoes to help you pick the pair that best fits your needs!
Dansko Women’s XP 2.0 Clogs
The Dansko Women’s XP 2.0 clogs are among the most required pairs of shoes for working in the kitchen. They feature a lightweight EVA midsole that reduces fatigue for everyday wear and provides stability and high shock absorption.
These chef shoes feature removable, dual-density PU footbed as well as the Dansko Natural Arch technology, making them comfortable and providing all the support you need to do your job without leg or back aches at the end of the day.
These chef shoes are the best clogs for chefs featuring the TPU arch stabilizer that provides exceptional, all-day support. Moreover, their heel is spacious and has memory foam for cushioning. Another essential aspect is that they have a unique, stylish design that goes with any color.
Key Features
- 100% Leather
- Rubber sole
- Padded instep collar for extra comfort when working
- Leather uppers
- Patented slip-resistant rubber outsole suitable for dry, and oily/wet surfaces
- Wide toe box to allow toes to move comfortably – plenty of wiggle room
- Made in the USA or imported
Pros
- High-quality; last for years without displaying signs of wear and tear
- Easy to clean using water and soap
- No need to break them in; comfortable right from the box.
Cons
- Tend to make noise when walking faster
Social proof
Dansko Women’s XP 2.0 Clogs have an Amazon score of 4.5 out of 5 with over 7,051 global reviews.
Based on customer reviews, the Dansko Women’s XP 2.0 Clogs have a:
- 78% (just right) score for toe box
- 84% (true to width) score for width
- 57% (above average) score for arch support
- 4.3 score for comfort
- 4.1 score for light weight
Birkenstock Unisex Birki Slip Resistant Work Shoe
Birkenstock Unisex Birki Slip Resistant Work Shoe is designed and certified to reach professional safety standards without sacrificing comfort and support. This shoe’s signature components offer a safe and secure fit, while the iconic anatomically contoured footbed ensures foot well-being in everyday work life. The BIRKENSTOCK professional shoe comprises silhouettes that deliver safety and flair for the medical field, the culinary and hospitality industries, crafts, or gardening.
These clogs offer comfort, support, and durability to help knee and back pain. Due to their squishy design, they do not cause aches and burns. Also, the broader gap between treads maintains its perfect nonslip function even after all of the grease, mop water, salt, and food debris buildup in the kitchen floor.
Another benefit for these kitchen shoes is the lack of odor that accumulates over time. You can simply wash the footbed in lukewarm water with soap and rinse the inside of the clog, and your clogs are practically new again. Moreover, they have removable insoles so that you can put the rest of the shoe in the washing machine at the end of the shift, and they will come out perfectly clean and dry quickly.
Key Features
- Alpro-Foam
- Regular width (Normal)
- Footbed: Alpro-Foam
- Sole: Alpro-Foam
- Made in Germany
- Manufacturer: Birkenstock
- Imported
Pros
- Very long-lasting
- Do not slip out of the foot when walking
- Water and oil-resistant
- Breathable material
Cons
- Longer break-in phase
Social proof
Birkenstocks Unisex Birki Slip Resistant Work Shoe has an Amazon score of 4.1 out of 5 with over 3,281 global reviews.
Based on customer reviews, the Birkenstocks Unisex Birki Slip Resistant Work Shoe has a:
- 52% (just right) score for toe box
- 68% (true to width) score for width
- 2.6 score for support
- 2.6 score comfort
- 2.6 score for pain relief
Crocs Bistro Clog Slip Resistant Work Shoes
Crocs Bistro Clog Slip Resistant Work Shoes will inspire you to be more productive in your work since they provide serious comfort. They’re supportive and lightweight enough to get you through even the most extended shifts, and they’re exclusively created with food service, hospital, and healthcare workers in mind.
These clogs offer extra toe protection and come in a range of color options to help you combine them with the rest of your kitchen uniform.
To add to the list of the advantages, Crocs Bistro clogs are also very easy to clean with detergent and water and dry quickly. These nonslip shoes for chefs are made with Crocs Lock slip-resistant treads providing a very nice grip.
When it comes to the fit, we recommend ordering a size down to the next largest whole size in these work shoes because they have a roomy fit.
They are comfortable shoes because of their contoured footbeds. Besides, these comfortable kitchen shoes have an enclosed toe design and a thicker metatarsal area to help protect your feet from spills.
Key Features
- 100% Synthetic
- Thermoplastic Elastomers sole
- Heel measures about 0.65.”
- Slip-resistant tread
- Fully molded
- Contoured footbeds
- 360-degree comfort.
Pros
- Slip-resistant
- Durable
- Removable footbeds to adjust them to your feet’ needs (or wash them separately from the shoe)
- Lightweight.
Cons
- Tend to shrink overtime (after being washed)
- They can be squeaky when walking quickly.
Social proof
Crocs Bistro Clog Slip Resistant Work Shoes have an Amazon score of 4.5 out of 5 with over 39,709 global reviews.
Based on customer reviews, the Crocs Bistro Clog Slip Resistant Work Shoes have a:
- 73% (just right) score for toe box
- 79% (true to width) score for width
- 59% (moderate) score for arch support
- 4.7 score for easy to clean
- 4.3 score for comfort
New Balance 412 V1 Alloy Toe Industrial Shoe
If you are in a job where you need safety toe shoes and you have to walk around all day, the New Balance 412 Alloy Toe Industrial Shoe is what you need. These comfortable right-out-of-the-box shoes are designed to deliver all-day comfort to professionals who work on their feet for extended periods of time.
The New Balance 412v1 Alloy Toe is a modern and light go-to option for chefs working in the kitchen. The integrated alloy toe cap covers quite a large area of the shoe and helps protect feet, giving you the confidence needed while on the job.
The Ripstop nylon helps provide long-lasting durability to this slip-resistant work shoe. These work shoes have super-cushioned soles that do not hurt your feet and get rid of leg fatigue and plantar fasciitis pain after your first wear.
These shoes for work in the kitchen feature a comfortable EVA insert, making this the ideal everyday work companion. They are well-sewn and sealed pretty well to the top of the toe. Plus, a slip-resistant and oil-resistant outsole give these shoes extra grip, providing the traction needed to navigate a range of terrains.
Key Features
- 100% Leather
- Rubber sole
- Alloy toe cap
- EVA insert
- Meets
- Slip and oil-resistant outsole
- Imported
Pros
- Zero break-in phase required
- Comfortable right out of the box
- You can find them in quadruple size
- Lightweight
Cons
- Tend to squeak in polished concrete floors.
Social proof
New Balance 412 V1 Alloy Toe Industrial Shoe has an Amazon score of 4.5 out of 5 with over 3,856 global reviews.
Based on customer reviews, the New Balance 412 V1 Alloy Toe Industrial Shoe has a:
- 4.4 score for value for lightweight
- 4.3 score for comfort
- 4.1 score for support
- 4.0 score for water resistance
Crocs on The Clock Clog Slip Resistant Work Shoes
Crocs on The Clock Clog Slip Resistant Work shoes are an excellent solution for every stripe baristas, restaurant servers, healthcare and service industry workers. If you spend hours on your feet, you should definitely consider these reinforced slip-on shoes featuring great design, good fit, and a really clean look.
These chef shoes offer you a relaxed fit, so we recommend ordering a size down to the next largest whole size. Crocs on The Clock Clog Slip Resistant Work shoes are easy to clean using soap and water and allow for a quick dry.
The nonslip traction provides good grip, avoiding falling risks and the enclosed toe and heel meet the required workplace standards to protect your feet from spills.
The deeply cushioned footbeds and croslite foam offer Dual Crocs Comfort, making them perfect for your long shifts. They require a short break-in phase, and they get more comfortable once you’ve worn them for some time.
Key Features
- 100% Man-Made
- Thermoplastic Elastomers sole
- Heel measures approximately 0.85.”
- Imported
- Enclosed toe and heel meets workplace standards
- Relaxed fit, with tapered fit in the back of the heel for a secured fit
- Enhanced arch support
- Slip-resistant tread.
Pros
- Includes padded insole for extra support
- Smooth insides comfort
- Great for rainy weather
- It hugs the feet and won’t fall off when walking.
Cons
- Smaller foot opening makes it hard for the foot to slip in and out.
Social proof
Crocs on The Clock Clog Slip Resistant Work Shoes have an Amazon score of 4.3 out of 5 with over 16,941 global reviews.
Based on customer reviews, the Crocs on The Clock Clog Slip Resistant Work Shoes a:
- 64% (just right) score for toe box
- 78% (true to width) score for width
- 57% (moderate) score for arch support
- 4.5 score for lightweight
- 4.1 score comfort
Skechers Flex Advantage Mcallen Food Service Shoe
If you are looking for a pair of kitchen shoes with an excellent sporty design, all-day comfort, and a relaxed fit, the Skechers Flex Advantage Mcallen Food Service Shoe is the right choice for you.
Designed with smooth synthetic and diamond-patterned breathable mesh fabric uppers that are water and oil-resistant, these chef shoes are perfect for working in the kitchen. They feature memory foam insoles for very comfortable wear, and their slip-resistant outsoles provide enough grip to protect you from falling hazards.
The Skechers Flex Advantage Mcallen Food Service Shoe has a very soft fabric shoe lining and a padded collar to prevent sore feet and ankle aches. Moreover, the dual-side elastic fabric panels make it very easy to put them on and off.
Key Features
- 100% Synthetic
- Synthetic sole
- Elastic side gores at opening
- Slip-on shoe work shoe
- Mesh fabric upper and slip-resistant traction outsole
- Padded collar and reinforced stitched seams
- Memory foam insole for cushioning
- FlexSole lightweight shock absorbing midsole
- 1 1/4 inch built in heel
- Imported
Pros
- No laces; easy slip-on and off
- Slip-resistance; firm grip
- Highly durable
Cons
- The material tends to absorb different substances, such as flour.
Social proof
Skechers Flex Advantage Mcallen Food Service Shoe has an Amazon score of 4.6 out of 5 with over 12,483 global reviews.
Based on customer reviews, the Skechers Flex Advantage Mcallen Food Service Shoe has a:
- 4.7 score for lightweight
- 4.6 score for comfort
- 4.4 score for support
- 4.0 score for water resistance
KEEN Utility Destin Slip-On PTC
Want a shoe designed for service work, culinary, or medical institutions that is qualitative and looks good? KEEN Utility Destin Slip-On PTC is the answer! The nonslip outsole offers great grip, and water-resistant materials make it easy to clean, while the cushioned footbed provides your foot with all-day comfort.
These shoes feature a removable footbed and leather lining, preventing feet aches and sore legs. Moreover, they have a soft toe, designed for working in harsh conditions, and the KEEN Patented Toe Protection, where the outsoles wrap up and over the toes for greater protection and support.
The PTC Slip-On 2 features a combination of memory foam that contours to your feet, recycled PU (polyurethane), and cork, which adjust for the perfect cushioning to keep your feet in the right place all day long.
With features such as a stability shank, elastic panel, and compression-molded midsole, you can work all day and be productive without worrying about your shoes.
Key Features
- 100% Leather
- Imported
- Rubber sole
- Shaft measures approximately 3″ from arch
- Boot opening measures about 12″ around
Pros
- Easy to put on and take off
- Removable footbeds to adjust according to your comfort level
- Cushioned sole for extra comfort.
Cons
- Tend to be a little narrow.
Social proof
KEEN Utility Destin Slip-On PTC has an Amazon score of 4.4 out of 5 with over 1,698 global reviews.
Based on customer reviews, the KEEN Utility Destin Slip-On PTC has a:
- 80% (true to width) score for width
- 78% (just right) score for toe box
- 58% (moderate) score for arch support
Think about how stylish you’ll look while wearing your pair of KEEN Utility Destin Slip-On PTC. Order them now on Amazon!
Shoes for Crews Freestyle II Non-Slip Food Service Work Shoes
To level up your work game, you should get a pair of high-class sneakers. Inspired by athletic performance styles, with the addition of slip resistance and ventilated lightweight design, Shoes for Crews Freestyle II Non-Slip Food Service Work Shoes make every step easier.
They feature water-resistant materials created to repel liquids from the surface, making them ideal for different workplaces. These food service work shoes have removable cushioned soles for you to adapt them to your comfort level.
They have the TripGuard feature, which decreases the trip hazard zone to allow fluid movement between slippery environments. Moreover, they are very supportive and great for walking or even standing on hard floors all day. These shoes are lightweight, ventilated, durable, and stylish, providing everything you have been looking for in a shoe.
Key Features
- 100% Synthetic
- Rubber sole
- Shaft measures approximately low-top from arch
- A standard fit for most sizes of feet.
- Removable cushioned insole
- Weight (per shoe): 12.2 oz.
- Slip-resistant
- Lightweight and durable synthetic upper
- Slip-resistant outsole with large lug pattern for extra stability
- Imported
Pros
- Nonslip; firm grip in various environments
- On the cheap side
- Long-lasting
Cons
- They tend to dry slowly
Social proof
Shoes for Crews Freestyle II Non-Slip Food Service Work Shoes have an Amazon score of 4.4 out of 5 with over 5,579 global reviews.
Based on customer reviews, the Shoes for Crews Freestyle II Non-Slip Food Service Work Shoes have a:
- 80% (true to width) score for value for width
- 86% (just right) score for arch support
- 57% (moderate) score for comfort
Skechers Cessnock Food Service Shoe
Skechers Cessnock Food Service Shoe is the shoe you will need if you stay on your feet all day long. They have memory foam cushioned insoles and soft insides that provide very comfortable wear and reduce foot pain.
These chef shoes provide good grip even in the most challenging terrains and are easy to put on and take off.
Besides, these food service shoes breathe well, provide adequate support, fit fine, and if the oil is swelling the rubber, the woven knit mesh fabric upper is flexible enough not to tear loose. When you want to clean them, simply throw them in the washing machine and they will be as good as new.
In addition, they have a short break-in phase and get more comfortable with time. They provide refined and sporty designs with all-day protection and comfort.
Key Features
- Rubber sole
- Shaft measures approximately low-top from arch
- Bungee lacing
- Slip-resistant
- Relax Fit
- Memory foam insole
- Closure type – lace-up
- Imported
Pros
- Breathable woven knit mesh
- Cushioned insoles for extra comfort and support
- Durable.
Cons
- Tend to run bigger in length and width.
Social proof
Skechers Cessnock Food Service Shoe has an Amazon score of 4.5 out of 5 with over 16,289 global reviews.
Based on customer reviews, the Skechers Cessnock Food Service Shoe has a:
- 4.3 score for value for comfort
- 4.2 score for support
- 4.0 score for water resistance
Birkenstock Tokyo Super Grip Leather Work Shoe
With the Tokyo Super Grip, BIRKENSTOCK has developed a clog for occupations that demand a significant amount of stamina from the workers and their feet. These shoes are great for chefs, medical professionals, food service workers, and more!
Their super-grip sole results in the ideal rolling motion, making these shoes not slippery on the wet kitchen floor or in the cooler. They feature a midsole made from EVA cushions, making the whole working process more comfortable.
The unique rubber tread delivers tangible sure-footedness, and the adjustable backstrap enhances this stability even more. This feature is appreciated by those working in the medical professions, kitchens, or service staff, who spend hours on their feet and need all the comfort they can get.
Being fit, durable, comfortable, and having excellent arch support, makes these chef shoes reduce pain in the feet and legs. Moreover, they are great for plantar fasciitis and ideal for pregnant women working in jobs where they have to stay on their feet for extended periods.
Key Features
- 100% Leather
- Rubber sole
- Manufacturer: Birkenstock
- EVA/Rubber Super Grip
- Color: Black
- Footbed: Leather Sole
- Imported – Made in Germany
Pros
- The break-in period is almost nonexistent
- Firm grip even in the most difficult environments.
- Easy to clean
Cons
- Hard to find in narrow width
Social proof
Birkenstock Tokyo Super Grip Leather Work Shoe has an Amazon score of 4.4 out of 5 with over 933 global reviews.
Based on customer reviews, the Birkenstock Tokyo Super Grip Leather Work Shoe a:
- 70% (just right) score for toe box
- 84% (true to width) score for width
- 4.4 score for support
- 4.7 score for easy to clean
- 4.1 score for comfort
- 3.7 value for money
Avia Avi-Union II Non-Slip Shoes
Looking for a pair of shoes to provide you with extra grip while you’re working? If yes, the Avia Avi-Union II Non-Slip Shoes are the perfect solution for you!
The thick rubber soles of these shoes have an oil and slip-resistant tread pattern for better grip. They are specifically engineered to prevent oil and liquid trapping while remaining non-marking. They aid in maintaining a firm foothold in slick environments such as restaurants, hospitals, and kitchens.
The memory foam adapts to your foot’s specific shapes, reducing pressure points for a custom fit and all-day comfort. The compression-molded EVA midsole, anatomical heel cradle, and Avia’s Cantilever technology all work together to center and stabilize the heel while also providing excellent shock absorption and cushioning. The Avia Avi-Union II shoes are treated with Scotchguard Defender to prevent stains and water, keeping your feet dry.
These comfortable shoes are ideal for individuals who spend the majority of their time on their feet. Their lightweight, all-day comfort features makes these shoes suitable for waitresses, waiters, nurses, and other professionals that spend their days standing and walking. They’re also excellent travel walking shoes.
Key Features
- 100% Man-Made
- Imported
- Manufactured sole
- Shaft measures approximately low-top from arch
- SLIP-RESISTANT
Pros
- Water and oil-resistant
- Stain-resistant
- Easy to clean
- Nonslip
- Durable
Cons
- Tend to run smaller
Social proof
Avia Avi-Union II Non-Slip Shoes have an Amazon score of 4.2 out of 5 with over 1,106 global reviews.
Based on customer reviews, the Avia Avi-Union II Non-Slip Shoes have a:
- 74% (just right) score for toe box
- 84% (true to width) score for width
- 57% (moderate) score for arch support
New Balance 626 V2 Industrial Shoe
The New Balance 626 is a highly durable leather footwear alternative for people who spend long shifts on their feet. This durable work shoe has a secure leather upper, ABZORB crash-pad technology to help absorb forceful impacts, an internal shank that provides stability, and a slip-resistant lug outsole for enhanced traction on hazardous areas.
Many waiters, bartenders, warehouse workers, and kitchen staff love these shoes due to the added benefit of the slip-resistant outsole, soft soles, high traction, and comfort.
The physical comfort and endurance they give their wearers help heal aches and pains from your feet and legs, and they are an excellent solution for plantar fasciitis.
Key Features
- 100% Leather
- Rubber sole
- Shaft measures approximately low-top from arch
- Compression-molded midsole
- Oil-resistant outsole properties
- Leather upper
- Non-marking outsole
- Imported
Pros
- They do not slide off while walking
- Easy to clean using soap and water
- Comfort in colder weather (no mesh ventilation panels in the uppers).
Cons
- Tend to run a little wider
Social proof
New Balance 626 V2 Industrial Shoe has an Amazon score of 4.4 out of 5 with over 6,575 global reviews.
Based on customer reviews, the New Balance 626 V2 Industrial Shoe has a:
- 4.4 score for value for stability
- 4.3 score for support
- 4.3 score for value for money
- 4.3 score for lightweight
- 4.2 score for comfort
What to Look for When Buying Shoes for Work in the Kitchen?
Your choice of footwear, just like your palate and knife skills, is critical to a good time in the kitchen. Your footwear determines your level of service, comfort, and enjoyment at work. You can’t afford to make a mistake here; it might cost you money in the long run, or possibly your health if you stumble on the hard kitchen floor.
When it comes to purchasing kitchen shoes, it’s critical to make the appropriate decision. Make sure to pick a comfortable pair with good grip, proper arch support, slip resistance, and breathability.
Comfort
While working in a kitchen, shifts are long, and you are on your feet most of the time. Your joints, back, and feet might all start to hurt if you do not wear the right kitchen safety shoes.
For added comfort, look for shoes with proper arch support and cushioned heels and good ventilation to reduce sweat and prevent blisters. These elements will give you a very comfortable kitchen shoe and allow you to become productive throughout your day.
Grip
A slip and fall accident is one of the most typical accidents that occur in the kitchen. While these are occasionally inevitable, they are frequently the result of poorly defined or violated safety standards.
Chefs should always wear anti-slip footwear that provides excellent grip, and they will be able to stay on their feet and handle the issue effectively even if spills occur. As a result, all of the chef shoes we have recommended above have a firm grip.
Slip-resistant
Food, oil, grease, water, soap, and other liquids are frequently spilled on the flooring of busy kitchens, and these can easily result in trips, falls, and slips. Therefore, you should wear slip-resistant footwear to protect yourself from slipping hazards.
Arch support
Although you won’t cover a huge amount of ground throughout the 12-hour shift, you will spend half a day standing on your feet.
Arch support, cushioned heel units, and breathable uppers are all essential. The first two will protect your back, legs, and joints, while the third will keep your feet fresh and avoid sores and fungal infections.
For better arch support, you can use shoes with removable insoles. Wearing them, you may quickly adjust your insoles to fit your arch structure and movement.
Breathability
Breathability is a feature that can make or break a chef’s shoe and significantly impacts customer satisfaction. Sweat is a regular occurrence in a hot cooking atmosphere, and shoes will quickly become uncomfortable if moisture does not evaporate. Humid conditions, such as those found in damp socks and shoes, are breeding grounds for germs, which is more worrying than discomfort.
Footwear constructed of higher-quality, breathable materials helps to solve this problem by allowing the feet to breathe. Furthermore, increased breathability helps to wick moisture and sweat away from the foot while yet protecting them.
Material
The shoe’s material is quite essential. A chef should look for a flexible design with a durable upper since they are constantly standing or moving.
Chef shoes are subjected to severe wear and tear as chefs continually operate in a heated kitchen environment. The suitable materials can withstand a lot and still look fantastic for years before deteriorating.
The Final Verdict
Whether or not your workplace regulations require it, having the proper kitchen footwear is essential. Professional cooks can avoid accidents with the right footwear and focus on their skills and the quality of their job.
Chef shoes should be long-lasting, nonslip, and made of breathable material. When all of these elements are present in a shoe, it can be a perfect solution for the daily difficulties of the chef’s demanding occupation.
