Nursing Clogs vs. Nursing Shoes: What’s the Difference (and Which Are Better?)

Ask ten nurses whether they prefer clogs or sneakers, and you’ll get twelve opinions. Clogs have been around forever, and they’re famous for being easy, durable, and simple to slip on at 5:45 a.m. But modern nursing shoes have completely changed the game, especially for healthcare workers who are constantly moving, standing, and pivoting for 12+ hours at a time.

So which one is actually better for long shifts? Here’s the breakdown.

What’s the Difference Between Nursing Clogs and Nursing Shoes?

Clogs and nursing shoes might share the same workplace, but they couldn’t be more different in structure or performance.

Clogs typically have a rigid sole, slip-on design, and either an open back or partial heel coverage. They’re convenient and easy to put on, but they don’t offer much in terms of cushioning or flexibility.

Nurse shoes, on the other hand, look more like performance sneakers. They’re built with cushioned midsoles, flexible outsoles, and enclosed uppers designed for support and stability during long hours of standing and walking. The design evolved specifically for healthcare, where movement is constant, and spills are guaranteed.

Nursing Clogs vs. Nursing Shoes: A Feature-by-Feature Comparison

Here are the differences nurses actually feel during a shift.

1. Comfort and Support

Clogs: stable, but not super soft. They’re often firm underfoot and don’t absorb shock well—which can be a problem on hard tile floors.

Clove nursing shoes: designed for endurance. Clove nursing shoes use dual-density support or the SuperCush™ Comfort System, which gives structured cushioning that stays supportive after hours of standing. Every Clove style is APMA Seal of Acceptance approved, meaning podiatrists agree they benefit foot health.

Verdict: Nursing shoes offer better long-term comfort and reduce fatigue. Your arches, knees, and back will thank you.

2. Fit and Stability

Clogs:

• Fit around the foot rather than with it

• Can slip at the heel when walking fast

• Minimal side-to-side stability

Clove nursing shoes:

• Secure, wrapped fit for fast movement

• No slipping when you’re sprinting to a room

• Better balance and motion control

Clove takes it a step further: both the Clove Classic and Clove Forte come in EE wide sizes, giving nurses with flat feet or wider foot shapes more room to stay aligned and supported.

Verdict: If you move a lot during a shift, nursing shoes win. Clogs shine for short, slow movement—not high-activity roles.

3. Safety and Traction

This is the category that matters most on hospital floors.

Clogs:

• Basic traction

• Not always tested for wet/oily surfaces

Clove nursing shoes:

• Built for slick hospital floors

• ASTM F3445-certified slip resistance

• Grippy but squeak-free outsoles

If you’ve ever hit a puddle of sanitizer mid-shift, you know how big this difference is.

Verdict: Nursing shoes are safer, full stop.

4. Cleanability and Durability

Clogs:

• Rinse clean easily

• Can scuff, squeak, or warp

Clove nursing shoes:

• Made from Clarino™ vegan leather

• Fluid-resistant, scratch-resistant, and bleach-wipe approved

• Maintain structure after months of wear

Clove’s materials stay cleaner, look more professional, and handle everything from saline to spilled coffee.

Verdict: Nursing shoes are easier to keep hygienic, and actually last longer.

5. Breathability and Style

Clogs:

• Can run warm

• Utilitarian look, limited options

Clove nursing shoes:

• Breathable, lightweight, and flexible

• Available in multiple colorways

• Designed to look polished with scrubs

Verdict: The combination of comfort, style, and professionalism means nursing shoes win again.

The Best Nursing Shoes for All-Day Comfort

Here are a few Clove styles that deliver the comfort, support, and durability clogs can’t match:

Clove Classic 

Our signature silhouette nurses love, with dual-density cushioning, easy-clean Clarino™ uppers, and a stable, slip-resistant outsole. The Clove Classic is Ideal for nurses who want reliable, everyday comfort and all-day support.

Clove Forte 2

A sleeker, lighter silhouette with the same stability and structured cushioning. The Forte 2 is perfect for nurses who want a bit of extra flexibility without sacrificing support.

Clove Strada 

If you love the comfort of Clove Classic but want something just as supportive off shift, Strada is your go-to. Strada combines everything Clove is known for (all-day comfort, easy slip-on design, and waterproof Clarino™ vegan leather) with an upper inspired by iconic lifestyle sneakers.

Why Nurses Choose Clove Over Clogs 

When your workday includes nonstop walking, slick floors, and long hours, you need support that moves with you, not against you. Clove nursing shoes deliver comfort, slip resistance, easy cleanability, and APMA-approved support that lasts the entire shift.

You take care of everyone else; your shoes should take care of you. Explore our full collection of shoes for nurses designed for real healthcare shifts.