Best Work Shoes for Men: Safety, Non-Slip, Formal & More
- By George P.H.
After reviewing 32 products, the Dansko Walkers are the best work shoes for men.
After reviewing 32 products, the Dansko Walkers are the best work shoes for men.
We spoke to men in office work, construction and other niches. We reviewed products and tested a couple dozen in-store. We looked for formal shoes, safety shoes, non-slip shoes and more.
The Dansko Walkers are our top choice becloause they’re comfortable, formal and slip-resistant. The footbed and midsole work together to support and cushion your foot. Dansko specializes in supportive footwear, and these shoes are perfect for standing and walking.
If you’re looking for the best service shoe for men, get the Skechers McAllen. It’s smart, light and non-slip. Its relaxed fit and memory footbed make it a good choice for service jobs.
If you need a men’s safety shoe that’s light but protective, we recommend this Reebok Sublite model. With a walking shoe’s sole and an alloy toe, it doesn’t weigh the foot down. The MemoryTech Massage footbed is one of the best we tested.
To learn more about our top choices for men’s work shoes, read on!
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Table of Contents
Best Work Shoes for Men
100/100
Our Score
Dansko Mens Walker
Dansko Mens Walker
Why this product?
The shoe feels like a sneaker. The upper is smooth black leather. It has a roomy toe box.
100/100
Our Score
The Dansko Walker looks like a dress shoe but feels like a sneaker. The upper is smooth black leather. It has a roomy toe box. The front of the shoe is made in one piece to prevent wrinkles. Our testers tried – and failed – to get the shoe to crease while walking.
Our testers report the included footbed feels incredible. It’s triple density EVA which supports your foot and improves posture. It molds to the foot over time and can be removed and replaced with orthotics if necessary.
The midsole is polyurethane with shock absorption properties. The stroble construction of the shoe means the upper is sewed to a fabric bottom. A cushioned, moisture-wicking liner provides comfort throughout.
These have a nice outsole with good slip resistance. Reviewers recommend these for hotels, kitchens, mechanic shops, and more. They are easy to clean; you can wipe them down with a wet cloth.
Pros
- Improves posture
- Moisture-wicking liner
- Delivers good slip resistance
- Easy to clean
Cons
Best Service Shoe for Men
98/100
Our Score
Skechers Flex Advantage Mcallen
Skechers Flex Advantage Mcallen
Why this product?
The Flex Advantage Mcallen has a rubber outsole designed to be completely slip-proof against water and oil.
98/100
Our Score
These Skechers Mcallen shoes were made for food service. They’re a good fit for jobs that require non-slip shoes. They are easy to clean, breathable, and comfortable.
The Flex Advantage Mcallen has a rubber outsole designed to be completely slip-proof against water and oil. The shoe has reinforced stitch seams and a mesh upper which is stain and waterproof. Reviewers say these shoes are incredibly easy to clean, even though they’re mesh.
The mesh also makes these shoes breathable and well-ventilated. With Skechers’ Relaxed Fit and wide sizes, these give your feet plenty of space. The shoes have elastic goring on the sides so you can put them on and take them off easily.
Comfort-wise, the Mcallen shoes have a memory foam insole and a FlexSole midsole. These absorb shock and impact.
The shoes also have a padded collar and a soft fabric lining throughout. The heel is uniform and comfortable, giving our testers a neutral standing posture and walking gait.
Unli Electrical Hazard Safe design. This makes them a great choice if you work with electricity in your work and need to make sure you are fully protected.
Pros
- Easy to clean
- Electrical Hazard Safe design
- Completely slip-proof
- Well-ventilated
Cons
Best Safety Shoe for Men
98/100
Our Score
Reebok Sublite Cushion
Reebok Sublite Cushion
Why this product?
The shoe is athletic and comfortable. The low-cut design increases ankle mobility and keeps the shoe light.
98/100
Our Score
Need a safety toe for protection or to meet workplace standards? Then take a look at this Reebok Sublite Cushion work shoe.
The Sublite Cushion Work Shoe has an alloy toe cap (ASTM F2413). The alloy toe gives impact protection but is lighter than a steel toe. The toe box is wide, with plenty of wiggle room and breathability.
The bouncy sole has flex grooves for flexibility. The low-cut design increases ankle mobility and keeps the shoe light. Our reviewers said that if not for the additional toe protection, these would be a comfortable walking shoe.
The shoes come in black. The upper combines mesh and hard overlays. The mesh provides great ventilation and is very lightweight. The hard overlays add durability and sturdiness.
The sublites have a flat sole with thick treads and rubber pads on the heel and forefoot for extra grip. The midsole is cushioned with sublite foam. The footbed uses MemoryTech Massage technology. All these layers work together to cushion, massage and support the foot.
The insole is made of moisture-wicking nylon mesh. The low-cut design increases ankle mobility and keeps the shoe light..
The Reebok Sublite Cushion Work shoe is athletic, lightweight, and comfortable. We couldn’t find anything we don’t like about the model.
Pros
- Gives impact protection
- Provides great ventilation
- Moisture-wicking nylon mesh
- Increases ankle mobility
Cons
Best Smart Casual Work Shoe
97/100
Our Score
Cole Haan Grand Crosscourt II
Cole Haan Grand Crosscourt II
Why this product?
The Crosscourt is lightweight. Being an Oxford-style cut, these are extremely versatile.
97/100
Our Score
The Cole Haan Grand Crosscourt II Sneakers are stylish and comfortable. You can wear them in most work settings and dress up or down easily. They’re inexpensive, lightweight, and comfortable.
The outsole is injection molded and has some slip-resistance. It has rubber pads in the heel and forefoot for durability and traction. The insole is lightly padded with Cole Haan’s Grandfoam. Our testers found it to be comfortable with light orthotic support.
The upper leather gives the shoe a clean look, but the leather is lightweight and breathable. Being an Oxford-style cut, these are extremely versatile and can be worn for work at an office. They’re also good in retail, and across the service industry.
The Crosscourt is lightweight. It’s also surprisingly inexpensive; we feel it’s excellent value-for-money.
Though we found the shoe to be comfortable, some feel it runs narrow. If you have wider feet, you may want to try it on before buying it.
Pros
- Inexpensive
- Lightweight
- Slip-resistant
Cons
- Narrow
Best Premium Work Shoe for Men
96/100
Our Score
Dr. Martens Men's Tipton Slip on Loafer
Dr. Martens Men's Tipton Slip on Loafer
Why this product?
This shoe is an excellent option if you suffer from lower back pain.
96/100
Our Score
Our favorite premium shoe for men is the Dr. Martens Tipton Slip-on Loafer. This shoe has premium leather, a slip-resistant GripWair sole and a plush SoftWair sock liner.
The Tipton looks professional enough for office work and service work. That being said, the loafers do include the signature yellow stitching of Doc Martens.
The sole is made with Doc Martens’ Gripwair design for traction and slip resistance. The heel is flat, encouraging a healthy posture and natural gait. It’s also reinforced for extra bounce and added durability. This shoe is an excellent option if you suffer from lower back pain.
The SoftWair sock liner is soft memory foam that molds to your foot over time. We found it to be incredibly comfortable to walk around in – and it should get better over time. The shoes have plenty of space in the toes and a padded ankle collar.
The one drawback to this model is the breaking-in period. Like most Doc Martens, you’ll have to wear them 10-15 hours before the leather adjusts to your foot. Until then, watch out; the premium leather is rigid to begin with.
Pros
- Slip-resistant sole
- Encourages healthy posture
- Incredibly comfortable
Cons
- Long breaking-in period
Best Formal Slip-On for Men
97/100
Our Score
Clarks Men's Un.Sheridan
Clarks Men's Un.Sheridan
Why this product?
The Unsheridans have a plush sheepskin lining with minimal stitching. This reduces friction and blisters.
97/100
Our Score
Clarks’ Unsheridan are formal but breathable and comfortable. You can wear these in formal work settings, or to dress up for key events and meetings.
The Unsheridans have a plush sheepskin lining with minimal stitching. This reduces friction and painful blisters. The OrthoLite footbed is smooth, soft, and cushioned. It’s also removable, giving you enough space to add an orthotic insole in its place.
The Unsheridan soles have some anti-slip properties. The outsole is rubber and EVA (ethylene-vinyl acetate). It uses Clarks’ “Ultra Flex” technology to make sure you have plenty of flexibility.
The shoe is highly breathable. The Clarks Unstructured Air Circulation System uses vents and mesh. These let warm air out and cool air – in. This keeps the foot cool and dry.
The Unsheridan has twin goring panels on the sides. These stretch when you put the shoe on or take it off but feel snug with the shoe on.
Pros
- Breathable
- Reduces friction and blisters
- Provides slip resistance
Cons
Best Clogs for Standing All Day
100/100
Our Score
Birkenstock Tokyo Super Grip
Birkenstock Tokyo Super Grip
Why this product?
The signature cork-latex footbed provides support and massages the foot.
100/100
Our Score
These Birkenstock Tokyos are by far our favorite clogs. The signature cork-latex footbed provides support and massages the foot. It corrects your arch, improving posture to make standing for hours on end easy.
The footbed molds to your foot over time for comfort and stability. It has a deep heel cup to cradle your heel as you walk. It also has a unique ergonomic shape and raised toe-bar to improve your foot posture.
The adjustable straps go around the ankle and over the top of your foot. The upper has a relaxed fit and an extra-wide toe box for comfort. It’s made with soft leather lined with suede for a plush, premium feel.
The rubber outsole gives you good traction, even on smooth floors. The EVA midsole cushions the foot when you walk and stand, especially on hard surfaces.
Reviews from office workers, surgeons, pharmacists and others rate the Birkenstock highly. It is a little pricey, but given the workmanship, it’s still good value for money.
Pros
- Provides support
- Massages the foot
- Corrects arch
Cons
- Little pricey
Best Budget Work Clogs for Men
95/100
Our Score
Crocs Specialist II Clog
Crocs Specialist II Clog
Why this product?
Crocs Specialist II Clog is non-slip, easy to clean, and reinforced for all-day wear.
95/100
Our Score
The Specialist II Clogs are part of the Crocs at Work collection. They’re non-slip, easy to clean, and reinforced for all-day wear. They are special-made for food service, hospitality, and other service jobs.
The stability strap and heel section keep the Specialist 2s snug on the foot. At the same time, the wide toe box and roomy upper never feel tight. The toe box is asymmetrical, which makes it more ergonomic.
The EVA sole and nubbed foam footbed are comfortable with a light massaging effect. The Crosslite foam used for these shoes is comfortable and durable. The footbed feels lightly supportive, especially when compared with regular Crocs.
The front of the shoe is reinforced to protect your feet from spills and hot liquids in particular. The whole upper is easy-to-clean and quick-drying. We also like that the shoe had no glued-on parts.
Pros
- Non-slip
- Durable
- Easy-to-clean
- Quick-drying
Cons
Best Work Boots for Men
99/100
Our Score
KEEN Utility San Jose 6 Alloy Toe
KEEN Utility San Jose 6 Alloy Toe
Why this product?
The shoe has best-in-class cushioning, waterproofing and slip-protection. It’s lightweight and good value-for-money
99/100
Our Score
The KEEN Utility 6” Work Boot has best-in-class cushioning, waterproofing and slip-protection. It’s lightweight and good value-for-money, too.
KEEN’s Metatomical Footbed cradles and supports the foot all over. It makes standing and walking easy on the feet and legs. The Luftcell midsoles are made of durable, air-injected polyurethane. They make the boot feel like you’re walking on air.
The rubber outsole uses siping to disperse liquid and increase traction. It is slip-proof and oil-proof. Our testers found it to be cushioned, bouncy and flexible thanks to a series of flex grooves.
The boots’ Shellback heel support locks your foot in place. The nylon shank contributes to the midsole and footbed’s durability.
The alloy toe meets or exceeds ASTM F2412 and F2413 standards. It’s also rated as electrical hazard-proof. The alloy toe has good ergonomics, giving you wiggle room while keeping all the toes protected.
The leather upper is treated to be water resistant. Inside, the KEEN.DRY waterproof membrane and mesh lining keep your feet dry and ventilated. KEEN’s Cleansport NXT technology takes care of any odors. So, if you’re looking for a fantastic waterproof shoe, this is it.
Pros
- Waterproof
- Supports the foot
- Slip-proof and oil-proof
- Electrical hazard-proof
Cons
Best Soft-Toe Boots for Work
97/100
Our Score
Danner Bull Run Moc Toe 6
Danner Bull Run Moc Toe 6
Why this product?
These work boots are lightweight, with a full grain leather upper. The boots can be re-soled if it begins to wear down.
97/100
Our Score
This 6” work boot’s upper is premium full grain leather. Testers and reviewers say it feels durable and holds up well. The Danner Wedge outsole is non-marking, oil-resistant, and non-slip. The boots can be re-soled if it begins to wear down.
Inside the shoe, Danner uses an OrthoLite footbed for anatomical support. There is a steel shank under the heel for protection, durability and foot support.
The leather feels a little stiff at first. It’s a good idea to wear these for a couple hours at a time to begin with. After 10-15 total hours of wear, you can start wearing these boots all day.
These work boots are lightweight, with a full grain leather upper and comfortable footbed. They’re made with unlined leather for better cooling and ventilation. The moc toe and contrasting stitching give you a unique and stylish appearance.
Pros
- Non-marking, oil-resistant outsole
- Comfortable footbed
- Supports foot
Cons
- Long breaking-in period
Best Waterproof Boots
96/100
Our Score
KEEN Utility Flint 2
KEEN Utility Flint 2
Why this product?
These work boots are designed to be stable and supportive. It’s rated for electric hazard protection.
96/100
Our Score
A solid work boot with plenty of protection, the Flint 2 is also well cushioned and waterproof. It’s rated for electric hazard protection. It also has reflective webbing to give you added visibility and a steel toe (ASTM F2412 and F2413).
These work boots are designed to be stable and supportive. The removable metatomical PU footbed is designed to match the contouring of your foot. KEEN.ReGen provides a 50 percent energy return, helping to protect your feet through a shift.
The external Stability Shank supports your midfoot. The laces can be tightened for additional ankle support. The tongue is cushioned, the heel – reinforced.
The whole boot is waterproof, of course. The mesh and moisture-wicking lining keep the shoe ventilated and dry on the inside. The rubber sole is oil- and spill-resistant, with siping to disperse water for additional traction.
Pros
- Well cushioned and waterproof
- Electrical hazard-proof
- Reinforced heel
Cons
Best Work Shoes for Walking
97/100
Our Score
New Balance 806 V1
New Balance 806 V1
Why this product?
These shoes are comfortable, well-cushioned and breathable. The hyposkin upper is easy to clean.
97/100
Our Score
The New Balance Fresh Foam 806 is slip-resistant with a smooth upper and strong comfort features. The hyposkin upper gives them a professional look and is easy to clean. The addition of no-sew overlays gives added durability and style.
The 806v1 is based on a tennis shoe, with a grippy sole made for stability. The shoe is flexible and can be laced up all the way up for ankle support. The one-piece foam midsole is lightweight, supportive and well-cushioned. We thought it was one of the best we tried.
The rubber outsole of these shoes is slip-proof. Many reviewers use them in restaurant settings with no issues. Style-wise, these shoes are athletic in the back and smart casual in the front. Use your own best judgement if wearing them to an office.
These shoes are comfortable, well-cushioned and breathable. We liked the high ankle eyelets and asymmetric toe box. We didn’t like that the toe box is less breathable than the rest of the shoe.
Pros
- Slip-resistant
- Easy to clean
- Durable
- Flexible
- Slip-proof
Cons
- The toe box is less breathable
Best Work Shoe for Flat Foot Men
99/100
Our Score
Saucony Omni Walker 3
Saucony Omni Walker 3
Why this product?
This shoe is breathable and lightweight, but it supports you as you walk and even improves your gait.
99/100
Our Score
The Saucony Omni Walker 3 is a highly supportive sneaker-style shoe designed to reduce foot pain and improve your walking gait. It’s durable and breathable. Plus, the solid black leather and synthetic upper looks professional and is easy to clean.
When we first tried these on, we were impressed how supportive they felt. The shape of the outsole, midsole, and footbed all contribute to making your feet feel supported and comfortable. The way this shoe is designed, it can actually help you as you walk. The shoe redistributes your weight in order to correct your foot placement and even improve your posture.
The midsole is made of PWRRun foam, a TPU EVA blend that is highly cushioned and responsive. There is, however, also room for the addition of your own orthotic insoles. Both the tongue and collar are slightly padded for increased comfort.
Although the heel may look elevated, it compresses with your weight to create a uniform sole. The outsole is made of Saucony’s Walk-Trac and has some slip-resistance.
While the Saucony Omni Walker 3 may not look like the most formal shoe on the list, it comes at a low price point and reviewers say it holds up well over time. This shoe is breathable and lightweight, but it supports you as you walk and even improves your gait.
Pros
- Durable
- Supportive
- Improves posture
- Low price
Cons
Best Corrective Work Shoes for Men
99/100
Our Score
Propét Men's Stability X Strap
Propét Men's Stability X Strap
Why this product?
The shoe is designed to redistribute weight, improve foot posture and correct gait and posture.
99/100
Our Score
The Stability Walker is designed to redistribute weight, improve foot posture and correct gait and posture. The EVA double midsole is durable and supportive. It has a gel heel pad for extra comfort. If you have a foot condition, one or both of the insoles can be removed to fit an orthotic.
In terms of feel, the X Strap is similar to the New Balance 806 we mentioned previously. It does feel a little more stable. The double insole is very comfortable on the foot and immediately improved our standing biomechanics.
The shoes come in wide, extra wide, and even XX-Wide so your feet will have plenty of room even with an inserted orthotic. The upper is mesh and the shoe is lined with a brush nylon lining, which is light and breathable.
This sneaker is easy to put on, easy to wear, and easy to take off. It keeps your feet well-ventilated and comfortable, with plenty of padding around the tongue and ankle collar.
Propét specializes in helping people with plantar fasciitis, bunions, flat feet, etc. This shoe has strong arch support and foot posture correction. With its smart black upper, it’s our top choice for corrective work shoe.
Pros
- Improves foot posture
- Keeps feet well-ventilated
- Delivers posture correction
- Provides strong arch support
Cons
Best Minimalist Work Shoes for Men
96/100
Our Score
Vivobarefoot RA II Classic Oxford
Vivobarefoot RA II Classic Oxford
Why this product?
The Vivobarefoot feels comfortable on foot.
96/100
Our Score
The Vivobarefoot RA II Classic Oxford is thin, lightweight, comfortable and professional. Its upper is thin wild hide leather, sourced from free-range cows in Ethiopia. The leather takes some maintenance but is stylish, soft and durable.
The Vivobarefoot Active Sole outsole is very thin, only 4mm. The removable cork insole is soft, flexible, and molds to your foot over time. The insoles have antibacterial properties that keep the shoe odor-free.
The Vivobarefoot feels comfortable on foot. The toebox and forefoot are a little wider than usual, but feel natural. Vivobarefoot claims these shoes are “foot shaped, not shoe shaped” – and we have to agree.
With a professional upper and premium leather, this is an excellent minimalist shoe for work. One con is that the thin sole doesn’t hold up well on concrete surfaces. Consider a full or partial sole guard to protect the heel and midfoot from wear and tear if necessary. Also, our testers say Vivobarefoot fits true to size.
Pros
- Durable leather
- Antibacterial insole
- Foot shaped
Cons
- Leather takes some maintenance
- Thin sole
Buying Guide - Best Work Shoes for Men
Appearance
Some workplaces require formal, leather or all-black shoes. Others have a more relaxed dress code. Either way, it’s important that your work shoes are appropriate for your workplace.
If you’re wearing your shoes to formal events, they’ll also need to be dress-ey. This is why we made sure to include many Oxford models on the list above.
Comfort
Whether you’re walking, standing or sitting, your work shoes ned to be comfortable. Start by thinking about sole cushioning and support. Protection from impact and good foot posture will make work easy on your body.
Beyond these features, look for features like breathability; moisture-wicking; odor reduction. Anything that keeps your feet fresh through long days of work is good. Although there are many fantastic ways to get rid of stinky feet, you should try preventing this problem from the start.
A Durable, Non-slip Sole
Many professions require non-slip soles for work. Your job may not – but still, it’s good to have a grippy shoe. Look for shoes marketed as “slip-resistant” and “non-slip”. Deep treads are good too.
Work-specific Features
Chefs, waiters and nurses need spill-proof shoes. Manufacturing and warehouse jobs may require safety toes. Some jobs need slip-resistance.
Make sure you understand the work-specific features your job requires before buying your shoes. Otherwise, you may end up buying a pair you can’t actually wear to work.
Conclusion
Our favorite work shoes for men are the Dansko Men’s Walkers. They’re supportive, cushioned, breathable and formal-looking. A natural choice for offices, service jobs and more.
The best safety-toe shoe for work is the Reebok Sublite. With the sole of a walking shoe and a roomy alloy toe section, they’re both safe and convenient.
Our favorite clog for standing all day is the Birkenstock Tokyo. It has incredible foot support and comfort. Although it doesn’t cushion the foot much, it decreases walking and standing impact by improving your foot posture.
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