Sharkey says that, in general, a shoe should fit well, have good support, absorb shock and cushion well. Consider the following factors when choosing the right shoes for you.

Fit: According to Sharkey, it’s important to make sure your shoes are the right size in both length and width.

“Shoes should be bought after trying them on at the end of the day (when your feet are most swollen) to ensure they won’t be too tight if swelling occurs,” she advises.

Support: “Activity shoes that cannot be picked up, bent, or twisted in half are signs that the shoe is too flexible and will not provide adequate support for long hours of activity,” says Sharkey.

“There should be good support at the heel (the back part of the shoe that covers the heel). A good way to test this is to try squeezing it between your thumb and forefinger. There’s not much to give with this test.”

Also, knowing your foot type is key to finding the right pair. “Those with flat feet will want to look for a shoe with stabilization or motion control, while those with high arches will do best with a neutral shoe,” explains Sharkey.

Depreciation and amortization: “As nurses often work on wood, tile or concrete surfaces in hospitals and clinics, shock absorption and cushioning are very important,” adds Sharkey.

“The better the cushioning technology in the shoe, the less impact is transmitted up the kinetic chain through the joints of the lower extremities. Less shock means less aches, pains and fatigue!”