Being a veterinary technician, vet tech or veterinary nurse in an animal hospital or vet clinic is no desk job. It requires a lot of physical work.
They work on their feet for long hours during their shifts, walking and even running to attend to a sick animal, the animal owner, and the needs of veterinarians.
As vet techs move around the workplace, they get exposed inevitably to animal urine, feces, anal glands, animal hair, and other bodily fluids. That’s why it is important to invest in a good pair of shoes that can keep their feet protected against these substances.
Aside from that, Vet techs may also experience risks of developing even more serious problems that arise from standing and walking all day, such as foot pain, ankle, and knee pain or injuries, and collapsed arches.
Considering the above-mentioned working conditions, comfortable shoes that are durable shoes, slip-resistant, and easy to clean are essential investments to help vet techs get through their responsibilities with ease and comfort!
So, we did our research to give you the best shoes that you can rely on to get through a challenging day at work.
If you’re interested to know more about it, keep reading and let’s go through them below!
Top 5 Best Shoes for Vet Techs
1. Dansko Women’s Professional Clog
Product Description
If comfort, durability, and protection are what you’re after, then Dansko is one to consider. Dansko is a brand trusted not just by vet techs but by other medical professionals for years.
What we love about this great shoe is that it has a roomy and enclosed toe box that helps protect your feet against nasty stuff like blood, feces, urine to name a few.
It offers a shock absorption rocker bottom that helps reduce pressure on the foot for comfortable walking and standing even for long shifts.
Shoes that vet tech wear should also be easy to clean and disinfect just like these Dansko clogs.
With approximately 2” heel and ¾” platform and a wide heel coverage, this pair of clogs provides good support and stability as you work on your feet all day long.
It has a slip-on design that allows the shoes to be easily worn, perfect for vet tech shoes!
Pros
- Made from 100% leather and Highly durable material
- With a roomy toe box ideal for wide feet
- Low maintenance
- With a wide range of different texture and design to choose from
- Easy to wear
- Water-resistant
- Good arch support
Cons
- Stiff leather upper
- Looks bulky on feet
Interested? Purchase it here!
2. Merrell Encore Bypass 2 Moccasin
Product Description
As perfect shoes for veterinary technicians, they should be comfortable, breathable, and lightweight shoe so you can move freely throughout the day. And that is what buyers of Merrell Encore Bypass 2 are saying.
This comfortable pair is made with leather and breathable mesh lining, it fits perfectly and is easy to wear because of its slip-on style, and that is perfect for your busy day.
It features comfortable rubber soles that provide reliable traction and has molded nylon arch shank that provides extreme support to your feet and ankles perfect with long working hours.
It comes with black or brown color to choose from.
Pros
- Keeps your feet comfortable and safe
- Great arch support
- True to size
- Shock absorption sole
- EVA midsole provides stability
- durable
Cons
- Not waterproof
- Shoes have a slightly chemical scent
- Can be difficult to clean
Interested? Purchase it here!
3. Merrell Men’s Jungle Moc Slip-On Shoe
Product Description
If you are a veterinary student looking for something stylish, then this Merrell Men’s Jungle Moc Slip-On Shoe is perfect for you! Not only are these good shoes from Merrel stylish but are also so comfortable to use! Thanks to its breathable lining and suede leather upper.
You also don’t have to worry about the challenges for the day that may put pressure on your feet, because this slip-on shoe can provide you stability with its molded nylon arch shank that provides cushioning and support.
The upper portion is made with suede leather material that has water-resistant properties and stain resistance features.
These shoes offer a wide variety of colors and designs to choose from as well!
Pros
- 100% leather
- Durable
- Stylish
- Easy to wear
- Has odor control solution
- Provides stability
- Slip-resistant with its rubber sole
Interested? Purchase it here!
4. Reebok Men’s Classic Nylon Sneaker
Product Description
This classic sneaker from reebok in a minimalist look would never go out of style.
These running shoes have a sculpted EVA midsole that provides support for the arch and heel. Its padded foam sockliner adds some cushioning to prevent blisters.
If your workplace gets wet and messy, the high-abrasion rubber outsole will help prevent you from slipping.
This classic sneaker is made of suede and nylon designed for comfortability and durability.
Pros
- Anti-slip rubber outsole
- Durable
- Wide variety of colors and design
- Comfortable sneakers
Cons
- Might not be that ideal for wide feet
- Not much toe space
Interested? Purchase it here!
5. Skechers Women’s Go Walk Joy Walking Shoe
Product Description
This slip-on shoe from Skechers has an innovative 5Gen midsole cushioning with an advanced mesh fabric that naturally broadens to provide that maximum comfort and relaxed fit when walking.
Made from an air mesh fabric for extreme breathability. All materials used for this product are all lightweight to provide comfort over a long period of time whether you’re standing or walking, which makes this an ideal shoe for vet techs!
Pros
- Breathable
- Lightweight
- Flexible
- Cushioned 5Gen midsole
- High rebound insole
Cons
- Can be difficult to clean
Interested? Purchase it here!
6. Crocs Men’s and Women’s On The Clock Clog | Slip Resistant Work Shoes
Product Description
We all have heard about Crocs shoes and how people love them!
Its enclosed toe and heel design meet most workplace standards. It’s a great shoe for all healthcare service professionals, restaurateurs, baristas, and alike who spend hours on their feet every day.
You might also want to read: Best Shoes For Baristas
It’s certifiably comfortable and easy to wear with its slip-on design, it has an enhanced arch support and molded footbed that can take on all the punishments your feet can throw at it.
It’s made out of their proprietary Croslite foam material which is low maintenance, lightweight, odor-resistant, and slip-resistant – you can even clean it with just running water.
They also come in all shapes and sizes with different styles to suit your preferences. This is definitely excellent for veterinary nurses, vet assistants, and veterinary technicians!
Pros
- Non-slip outsole
- Easy to clean
- Good pair of comfortable shoes
- Certified durable
Cons
- It may look a little bulky on feet
Interested? Purchase it here!
7. Saucony Women’s Jazz Original Sneaker
Product Description
Saucony has been considered as one of the most comfortable sneakers in the market and the best vet nurse shoes! Its consecutive award can guarantee to back that up.
It has stood the test of time long enough as a testament to its timeless retro design and quality.
They also offer a wider variety of colors to choose from. You can also insert an insole that you prefer!
Pros
- Comfortable to wear which makes it great for vet tech
- Timeless design
- Comes with a secondary set of laces
- Soft cushioning for an all-day long work
- Great for wide feet
Cons
- Can be hard to clean when exposed to dirt and stain
Interested? Purchase it here!
8. Skechers Men’s Go Walk Evolution Ultra – Impeccable Walking Shoe
Product Description
The Sketchers brand has made a name for itself as the leader in walking technology.
Among their top products to incorporate the best technology they have to offer is the Skechers Men’s Go Walk Evolution Ultra – Impeccable.
It features an innovative cushioning technology that is both lightweight and designed to have high-rebound responsiveness for that ultra-comfortable walking experience.
The soft woven upper fabric mesh allows air to cool down your hard-working feet. The maintenance is fairly convenient as it’s durable enough to be machine washed.
Pros
- Ultra-lightweight
- Comfortable to wear
- Non-slip outsole
- Fits naturally on feet
Cons
- Not for wide feet
- It May take some time to dry after cleaning
Interested? Purchase it here!
9. Birkenstock Professional Unisex Profi Birki Slip Resistant Work Shoe
Product Description
If you prefer a plain and straightforward design shoe, this Birkenstock professional is ideal for you.
It is made from polyurethane that is easy to clean, comfortable to wear, and durable. It also has removable insoles and a footbed for convenience which makes it a great veterinary technician shoe!
Pros
- Slip-resistant
- East to clean
- Resistant to dirt
- Provides excellent arch support
- Its non-slip sole is also oil and grease resistant
Cons
- Plain looking
Interested? Purchase it here!
What To Look For When Buying
A Vet tech spends a substantial amount of working time on foot. Therefore, it is crucial to have the right shoes that will give a great deal of support and will alleviate stress in your feet. And here are a few things to consider.
1. Comfort
Vet tech works even before the clinic hours start, and sometimes work overtime, so the best vet tech shoes should be comfortable and lightweight, and that will also let you move freely and quickly if needed.
Walking and running may stress your feet, so you might also want to consider a pair that provides good shock absorption. It would also be helpful if it has good arch cushioning and support to prevent foot, knee, and back pain and to keep you safe from injuries.
2. Breathability
Having to wear a pair of shoes all day, vet tech shoes should also be breathable and well-ventilated to prevent feet from sweating that might encourage bacterial growth.
3. Size
Vet shoes or vet nurse shoes should properly fit so that it will allow them to move comfortably and prevent having blisters and calluses.
You must consider the size of your arches, toes, and heels and select one that fits snugly but not tight.
4. Durability
The best shoes for vets should be durable and sturdy as they wore them all day long. You have to consider the materials used and soles of the shoes you are going to buy.
Final Verdict: Which One Should You Buy?
There’s no question that a comfortable, durable, and breathable shoe can make the long and exhausting job of vet techs easier to endure.
That is why the best vet tech shoe we recommend is the Merrell Men’s Jungle Moc Slip-On Shoe!
It is very comfortable and reliable to use, because of its durability and flexibility. Its M Select Grip technology provides excellent support in case your surroundings get slippery and messy.
It has a breathable lining that helps keep your feet cool. Its Shock-absorbing air cushion heel and nylon arch shank provide great support, and flexibility — perfect for all-day footwear!
