Shoes for retail workers have to do a lot. They help you stay comfortable and safe on the job, protect your feet from hazards, and help you look good for customers. But with all the footwear options out there, finding the best shoes for retail work can be challenging.
We’ve done the research to help you find a shoe that meets all your needs. We’ve also put together this guide to some of the best shoes for retail work currently available.
Why You Need Good Shoes for Retail Work
Good footwear is essential to being productive in any job, but it is especially important for those who work in retail. The average retail employee will stand upwards of 8 hours a day. Therefore, the shoes you wear will directly affect how you feel and perform at work.
Stands all day can be hard on your feet, legs, back, and knees. If you are not wearing supportive footwear while standing or walking all day, it can cause fatigue and aches. You may also experience falling objects, slippery floors, and other hazards depending on the type of retail you are working in.
It is important to have comfortable, safe, and protective footwear that looks good and meets the professional requirements of your workplace.
Choosing the Best Shoes for Retail Work
When you work in retail, you need to have the right pair of shoes. Not only do you want comfort and durability, but you also want a shoe that is stylish enough to fit the type of retail job you are doing.
Depending on the type of retailer you are working for, you may need more stylish and dressy shoes for a professional environment such as a clothing or jewelry retailer, an example.
Wet and sweaty feet that are overheated are no fun n a work environment. Therefore always look for breathable and lightweight uppers materials and moisture-wicking interior linings. Cushioning in the sole and midsole offers comfort and shock absorbency ideal for standing or being active on your feet all day.
I would strongly suggest both an oil and slip-resistant sole made out of rubber with lug patterns for any retailer type. In your more heavy-duty and industrial trade forms, protective steel or alloy toe, waterproofing uppers, and a puncture-resistant sole are desirable. Electrical Safe materials in a shoe are advised, especially if you contact many electrical tools and equipment.
Features of a Good Shoe for Retail Workers
There are many features of a good work shoe, depending on the type of work you do. A few key features include:
Uppers: Leather, textile, or mesh can be used to construct the uppers; some upper designs may also have a waterproof lining. An interior moisture-wicking lining prevents excessive moisture build-up and odors.
Comfort: For comfort, an EVA, padded tongue, and collar provide a comfortable fit, whereas a shock-absorbing midsole and memory foam removable cushioned insole is ideal for cushioning and shock absorbency. Right arch and heel support help you to keep a proper balance and prevent injuries.
Durability: The outsole is made from slip-resistant rubber that offers excellent traction on damp or oily surfaces. The use of slip-resistant material will prevent injuries from slips or trips when working in wet conditions.
Health care: A Dri-Lex moisture-wicking lining and Aegis Microbe Shield control odor and bacteria. There is also the option of a Cushioning insole designed for comfort, with a gel cushion at the heel for shock absorption and heel protection, or a Memory Foam Cool Fit and anti-compression insole.
Reviews: The Best Shoes for Retail Workers
Dressy Shoes for Retail Workers
The Keen Utility PTC Oxford is a durable, versatile shoe for both formal and casual attire. The synthetic and textile smooth uppers offer ample protection and water resistance, while the elegant Oxford lace-up style gives a snug and comfortable fit. This shoe boasts a combination of recycled PU, cork, and Memory foam footbed molds for your feet for adaptable, customized comfort, and support. The stability shank and compression-molded midsole provide stability and shock absorbency as you work. There is also an outsole that is oil and slip-resistant.
Slip On Shoe for Retail Workers
The SKECHERS ‘Go Walk’ range offers casual, comfortable, and lightweight support ideal for less hazardous and more relaxed work environments. The Go Walk 3 – Women’s shoe is one of the various choices available in the Go Walk collection. The upper of this women’s lace-up casual shoe is made of textured woven fabric and synthetic materials. It also features a breathable cool comfort lining and a customizable Memory Foam insole. It comes with a FlexSole shock absorbing midsole that provides a comfortable walking experience. A fashionable high traction outsole completes the design.
Waterproof Outdoor Retail Work Shoes
Whether you are looking for a shoe to wear to work or take on a hike along a remote trail, the Moab Ventilator will keep your feet protected and comfortable. 100% genuine suede leather and mesh combine with a waterproof design, making it ideal for use in workplaces that require shoes that will stay dry regardless of the environment. The Vibram TC5 outsole has the slip resistance needed to ensure that you can safely walk among slippery surfaces, while its durable tread will handle rugged landscapes with ease.
Slip-On Shoe for Retail Workers
The Work Jungle from Merrell is back with a new, high-performing version perfect for Retail workers. The durable leather upper of the shoe is machine stitched throughout and includes Cordura in high wear areas for enhanced durability. The Dew Shield water protection system resists moisture and has a breathable mesh fabric lining to keep feet cool, dry, and comfortable.
Comfortable Shoes for Retail workers
The Skechers for Work retail shoe comes in a variety of attractive colors and is sturdy and comfortable for every work environment. A low-cut design in the shoe offers a custom fit for the wearer, along with supple leather uppers and a padded tongue and collar for optimal comfort. The memory foam cushioned removable footbed allows your feet to stay cool even on hot days because of the ventilated lining. The outsole consists of Nitrile Rubber that is ASTM tested and rated safe and slip-resistant on wet and oily floor surfaces.
