The Best Kitchen Shoes That'll Support You Through the Long Hours

Whether you work full-time or volunteer in a kitchen or food-service environment, one of the job's most important requirements is to come in wearing the appropriate shoes. And much like with garden shoes, "kitchen shoes" shouldn't be a euphemism for your oldest, most worn-out pair of sneakers.

We talked to several kitchen professionals to get an understanding of what to look for when shopping for a pair of kitchen shoes.

The Best Kitchen Shoes

What to Consider

As nearly any restaurant worker will tell you, comfort and safety are paramount when it comes to the best kitchen shoes. That means outer construction is just as important as what's inside. As Bobby Pritchard, the owner and grillmaster at Smokey Grill BBQ advises, "First, the shoes should have a nonslip sole in order to avoid slipping on wet surfaces."

Another thing to keep in mind, especially if you have plantar fasciitis and need enhanced arch support is the comfort of the soles and other features of the shoe's interior. Michael East, veteran professional chef and CEO of Griddle King says, “You can find clogs that have memory-foam soles so that it feels like you’re standing on a cloud even after a 12-hour shift ... On top of that, ventilation is a must, as your feet need to breathe.”

One more quality that may also be important for your work is a waterproof build, since all day long, splashes and spills happen. Shoes that are made of or coated with water-resistant materials are easier to hose off or wipe clean if they get seriously grimy.

Finally, as far as aesthetic requirements go, the list is usually pretty short. Many kitchens will require that back-of-house staff wear shoes that are black and have a closed-toe design. While the color limitation may vary depending on where you work, we've streamlined this guide to cover just black shoes.

With safety, support, and even a little style at top of mind, read on to check out our guide to the best kitchen shoes.