HOKA vs Clove Nursing Shoes: Which Is Better for Nurses?

If you’ve spent time researching shoes for nurses, you’ve probably come across both HOKA and Clove.

Specifically, the HOKA Arahi is positioned as a stability work shoe for long hours on your feet. It’s known for structured support and plush cushioning—qualities that appeal to nurses logging serious mileage during their shifts.

Clove, on the other hand, builds footwear specifically for healthcare professionals. Both prioritize comfort. But healthcare environments demand more than cushioning alone.

Here’s an honest breakdown of how HOKA Arahi and Clove nursing shoes compare and which might make more sense for your shifts.

Healthcare-Specific Recognition & Adoption

Clove nursing shoes have earned the APMA Seal of Acceptance, recognizing products found beneficial to foot health.

Every model is certified slip-resistant under ASTM F3445 standards. And notably, 71% of Clove customers switch from running shoes after trying footwear designed specifically for healthcare.

That pattern reflects a common experience: Many nurses start in running shoes and eventually move toward something built around clinical realities.

Cushioning & Stability: Structured Support vs Healthcare-Specific Comfort

The HOKA Arahi focuses on stability. It features:

• Dual-density compression-molded EVA midsole

• Modified H-Frame™ technology to combat overpronation

• Flexible heel and structured heel counter

It’s built to provide steady guidance and plush cushioning over long hours.

Clove nursing shoes approach support differently.

Rather than centering purely on running form, Clove designs around the realities of healthcare movement: standing in place, pivoting quickly, leaning over beds, and stopping and starting frequently.

• Forte 2 uses proprietary Cush Foam Formulation™ to help reduce fatigue during extended standing and walking.

• Classic features dual-density support for balanced comfort throughout a shift.

• Strada includes the Clove Contour Comfort System with a deeper heel cup and added arch contouring for consistent stability.

Both shoes aim to keep you comfortable. The difference is in specialization: Arahi emphasizes structured stability; Clove emphasizes a design that's for moving throughout a healthcare environment.

Slip Resistance & Hospital Safety

Traction is non-negotiable in clinical settings.

The HOKA Arahi includes a slip-resistant outsole designed to help keep you steady on slick surfaces.

Clove goes a step further by certifying every model under ASTM F3445 slip-resistance standards—a widely recognized benchmark for occupational footwear. This testing measures traction performance on both wet and dry surfaces.

In addition, Clove soles are 100% squeak-free, which makes a noticeable difference in quiet hospital corridors.

Both shoes prioritize grip. Clove provides standardized occupational validation behind that traction.

Cleanability & Spill Protection

This is often where nurses begin to notice a big difference.

The HOKA Arahi features:

• Breathable textile upper

• Durable water-repellency treatment
  PFC/PFAS-free coating

Water repellency helps prevent light moisture from soaking in immediately.

Clove uses waterproof Clarino™ vegan leather, a premium microfiber material that:

• Repels fluids

• Wipes clean quickly

• Softens with wear

• Maintains a polished look through repeated cleaning

Hospitals are unpredictable. Sanitizer, medication drips, and bodily fluids are part of the environment. Wipe-clean construction makes daily maintenance easier and more hygienic over time.

Entry, Fit & Everyday Convenience

The HOKA Arahi includes a quick-lace system, an additional traditional lace option, and a flexible heel design.

Clove nursing shoes build convenience directly into the design.

• Classic includes adjustable elastic no-tie laces.

• Forte 2 features a slip-on design for fast entry.

• Strada offers a lace lock system with both elastic and traditional lace options.

When you’re heading into an early shift or moving quickly between tasks, simplicity matters.

Odor Control 

Long shifts mean sweat. Sweat means bacteria. And that means odor.

The Arahi’s breathable textile promotes airflow, which can help reduce heat buildup.

Clove integrates high-performance Clove Contour Comfort Insole. They’re fully removable and machine washable. When it’s time for a refresh, you can throw them in the wash, and they’ll bounce right back.

That removable component becomes especially valuable if you’re working multiple shifts per week.

HOKA vs. Clove: Which Shoe Is Better for Nurses?

If you’re looking for a stability-focused work shoe with structured cushioning, the HOKA Arahi is a decent option.

But if you want footwear built specifically for hospital environments (including certified slip resistance, wipe-clean materials, squeak-free soles, removable washable inserts, and healthcare validation), Clove was built for that role from day one.

Long shifts deserve purpose-built support.

If you’re exploring options, you can browse Clove’s nursing shoes designed specifically for healthcare professionals and decide which style fits your workflow best.