Waiting on tables is a demanding job that can keep you on your feet the whole day with a tray of food in your hands. And being the point of contact between the chef and the diners, you have to be quick and always smiling. This job can take a significant toll on your feet and lower back.
Being on your feet the whole with the wrong footwear can pain and stress your muscles and bone. So, to avoid these issues, you must invest in the best shoes for servers. But, with the many options available, selecting the right one can be quite tricky.
Remember, the right pair must have a non-slip outsole. After all, nobody wants to slip down and fall with a tray of food on their hands. We have prepared these reviews of some of the best shoes for waiters and waitresses to help you make your decision.
So let’s dive right in…
Table of Contents
The Best Shows for Servers Are:
| Product | Details | ||
|---|---|---|---|
| 1. Skechers for Work Flex Advantage Mcallen Food Service Shoe |  Top Pick |
| Check Current Price |
| 2. Reebok Work ‘N Cushion 2.0 Walking Shoes |  |
| Check Current Price |
| 3. New Balance Fresh Foam Slip-Resistant 806V1 Shoes |  |
| Check Current Price |
| 4. DR. Scholl's Fresh One Moccasin |  |
| Check Current Price |
| 5. MOZO Women's Mavi Shoes |  |
| Check Current Price |
| 6. Avia Women's Avi-Union Li Food Service Shoes |  |
| Check Current Price |
| 7. Skechers Gozard Slip-Resistant Walking Shoes |  |
| Check Current Price |
| 8. New Balance 624 V2 Casual Training Shoe |  |
| Check Current Price |
| 9. Skechers Soft Stride Softie Work Shoes |  |
| Check Current Price |
1. Skechers for Work Flex Advantage Mcallen Food Service Shoe — Best Shoes for Servers
Skechers has always tried to produce footwear for different industries, and with this pair, they were spot on. Flex Advantage Mcallen is the best option for servers that can protect their feet. Flex Advantage Mcallen is a sporty shoe that provides the durability and comfort of a high-end pair in an affordable package.
This slip-on footwear comes with a durable and smooth synthetic upper for breathability and comfort. It also features a removable memory foam insole. Therefore, you can use it with your customized insole for extra comfort and support. Flex Advantage Mcallen has elastic side gores for an easier slip-on fit. It’s synthetic upper is both stain and water-resistant, making it ideal for servers.
Its diamond-patterned mesh upper can keep your feet fresh and dry the whole day. Flex Advantage Mcallen comes with a full-length memory foam insole that molds to the shape of your feet. Plus, it has a comfortable and roomy fit. Therefore you will never have to worry about blisters or knee pain. However, some users have complained about its durability.
Specs
- Sole: Rubber
- Material: Synthetic
- Size: 6.5-16 (US)
Pros
- It has a roomier toe box
- Well-cushioned
- Lightweight
- Slip-resistant outsole
- It has a slip-on design
- Stylish and economical
- Breathable
Cons
- Some users have compline about its durability
Overall Rating – 4.5 out of 5
Conclusion
Flex Advantage Mcallen is a stylish, lightweight, and affordable pair for servers. Therefore, you won’t have to break the bank to have fatigue and blister-free days.
2. Reebok Work ‘N Cushion 2.0 Walking Shoes
This well-constructed shoe is designed to cushion your feet the whole day. This pair provides exceptional support and needed comfort. This Reebok pair has a casual style upper that is made from 100% leather. Its unique low-cut design works perfectly with your work outfit. Work ‘N Cushion 2.0 is lightweight; therefore, you will never have to worry about your shoes weighing you down.
Work ‘N Cushion 2.0 comes with the DMX Ride foam that makes it more durable and comfortable. The DMX Ride foam provides the needed cushioning that will keep your feet safe the whole day. For extra cushioning and a responsive feel, it comes with a memory tech sockliner.
This professional-looking footwear allows sufficient air to flow in and out of the shoe. Therefore, you will never have to worry about blisters. Plus, it has an oil and slip-resistant outsole that provides proper traction. However, this pair will require a breaking-in period when new.
Specs
- Sole: Rubber
- Material: Leather
- Size: 5-12 (US)
Pros
- It has an oil and slip-resistant outsole
- Lightweight
- Comfortable
- It matches perfectly with your work outfit
- It features a mesh lining for breathability and protection
- It has a roomier toe box
Cons
- It requires a break-in period
Overall Rating – 4.0 out of 5
Conclusion
Work ‘N Cushion 2.0 was designed to keep your feet comfortable, dry, and well-cushioned. This pair will guarantee you a pain- and blister-free day.
3. New Balance Fresh Foam Slip-Resistant 806V1 Shoes
New Balance 806V1 was designed to offer people who spend their entire day on their feet superior comfort and protection. This pair uses New Balance’s unique technology and pressure data to keep you walking safely and comfortably. 806V1 has a no-sew synthetic upper that offers a seam-free and smooth fit. Its upper has an easy to clean surface which is ideal for servers and matches with your outfit.
Its unique rubber sole is more flexible and comfortable than its leather upper. This pair features a slip-resistant sole that provides the needed grip on wet and slippery surfaces. 806V1 uses New Balance’s Fresh foam to provide plush comfort all day long. Its unique slip-resistant lugs can keep you safe on the slippery floors all day long.
806V1 has advanced cushioning and a streamlined style and safety feature that is ideal for servers. So, you will never have to worry about knee pain and fatigue at the end of your shift. However, some people have complained about its durability.
Specs
- Material: Leather
- Sole: Rubber
- Size: 4-13 (US)
Pros
- Flexible
- Lightweight
- Well-cushioned
- It’s easy to clean
- The slip-resistant sole provides superior grip
Cons
- Some wearers have complained about its durability
Overall Rating – 4.0 out of 5
Conclusion
806V1 is a great option that is designed to keep servers safe and comfortable. It features a Fresh foam technology that provides the needed shock absorption and cushioning.
4. DR. Scholl’s Fresh One Moccasin
This moccasin is an ultra-comfortable and sporty sneaker that can be used outside and inside your workplace. The Fresh one moccasin is a slip-on shoe with a rounded toe box that offers more movement freedom. This pair merges a synthetic sole and a textile upper to create a flexible and durable pair.
The Fresh one moccasin uses the BE FREE energy technology, which has three zones to provide the maximum comfort. The first zone offers extra support and comfort under the toes. The second zone cushions the balls of your feet using high recovery foam. And the third zone cradles your heel using dense foam.
To protect your feet against sharp and hard objects, this shoe has an EVA midsole. Fresh one moccasin comes with a perforated upper, making it more appealing and softer than other leather shoes. Plus, it has a fabric lining that keeps your feet dry and odor-free. However, the elastic laces can be quite deceiving. Some users have complained about its durability
Specs
- Material: Textile
- Sole: Synthetic
- Size: 5-12 (US)
Pros
- Flexible
- Lightweight
- It offers great support
- It provides maximum comfort
Cons
- Some users have complained about its durability
Overall Rating – 4.4 out of 5
Conclusion
This pair uses the BE FREE technology to provide maximum comfort. Therefore, your feet will be safe and comfortable the whole day.
5. MOZO Women’s Mavi Shoes — Best Shoes for Waitresses
If you love sports shoes or sneakers, then MOZO shoes can be an excellent option for you. Not only is it affordable, but you have two color options to choose from. This pair looks great irrespective of how hot the kitchen might get. This versatile pair is relatively easy and comfortable to wear thanks to the elastic goring and lace-up design.
It has a 3-hole arch for ventilation, a heel counter for stability and support. It also comes with a gel insole for cushioning and fit. This MOZO shoe has a full-grain water-resistant leather upper that makes it ideal for waitressing. This pair features an anti-slip outsole that provides the needed traction and a sturdy grip.
Mavi has a fashionable design and comfortable fit that will have you wearing it everywhere you go. Its water-resistant upper is relatively easy to clean. So, you will never have to worry about getting drinks and food on it. However, it is not ideal for people with wide feet.
Specs
- Material: Leather
- Sole: Rubber
- Size: 4-14 (US)
Pros
- Non-slip outsole
- Water-resistant
- Breathable
- Well-cushioned
- Easy to clean
Cons
- It can be a bit tight for people with wide feet
Overall Rating – 4.5 out of 5
Conclusion
MAVI is one of the best shoes for waitresses available. This stylish server’s footwear offers value, style, quality, and comfort. Its leather upper can protect your feet against rain and spill.
6. Avia Women’s Avi-Union Li Food Service Shoes
Avi-Union li is a stylish shoe that has been praised by many people for its comfortability. Many wearers have raved about this pair’s affordable price, fit and non-slip outsole. To make it even more flexible and comfortable, this stylish footwear uses synthetic leather. This shoe features compression-molded EVA midsoles with a soft-gel heel to help with shock absorption.
Avia-Union li has a slip and oil-resistant rubber sole with some unique tread pattern for enhancing traction. This pair’s synthetic leather upper uses the defender by Scotchguard to keep it water and stain resistance. This shoe has an EVA sockliner that is corrosion resistant and highly water-resistant.
Avi-Union li provides excellent shock absorption, cushioning, and great tensile strength. Plus, it can keep your feet warm when the temperature is relatively low. This pair can accommodate custom orthotics for extra comfort and support. However, some users have complained about its durability.
Specs
- Sole: Rubber
- Material: Synthetic
- Size: 6-11 (US)
Pros
- Available in wide options
- Comfortable
- Lightweight
- Supportive
- Stylish
- The rubber tread pattern makes this pair slip and oil resistance
Cons
- Many wearers have complained about its durability
Overall Rating – 4.2 out of 5
Conclusion
This stylish footwear has more than enough room for your toes to splay. This well-cushioned and slip-resistant footwear will keep you safe and working the whole day.
7. Skechers Gozard Slip-Resistant Walking Shoes
The Gozard slip walking shoe is both protective and stylish. Skechers made this pair using high-quality materials that can keep you safe and confident the whole day. This elegant footwear has a unique sporty design. Skechers Gozard walking shoes come with durable and smooth nubuck leather upper that can keep you safe.
For extra comfort, it has a padded collar and soft fabric lining. The stretchy side gores make it easy to wear and take off. This slip-on pair boosts a stain and water-resistant upper thanks to Scotchguard protection. The Gozard’s unique upper has some mesh panels for breathability; therefore, you don’t have to worry about blisters.
This shoe comes with a full-length memory foam insole for greater support and comfort. This sporty shoe comes with an innovative CT safety toe technology that makes it ultra-light and durable. This pair is ideal for anyone looking for stain-repellent and slip-resistant footwear. Even though it can keep your feet dry, this pair is not as breathable as other waitresses’ shoes.
Specs
- Sole: Rubber
- Material: Synthetic
- Size: 5-13 (US)
Pros
- Lightweight
- Stain and water-resistant
- Proper traction
- Well-padded collar for extra comfort
- Elastic gores make it easy to wear and put off
Cons
- It can keep your feet dry, but it’s not as breathable as the other shoes for serves
Overall Rating – 4.4 out of 5
Conclusion
This stylish casual footwear has everything you will ever need to do your work happily. It is well-padded, flexible, breathable, and provides the needed support.
8. New Balance 624 V2 Casual Training Shoe
Everybody knows that the best types of footwear for wearing with ease for long hours are sports shoes. NB 624 V1 is an excellent option for servers that come with a unique upper that is guaranteed to keep your feet comfortable and dry.
This unique pair’s upper is made from a mesh lining and leather that can keep your feet dry for an extended period. The leather upper adds a durability factor to this pair, while the lace-up closure plays a critical role in increasing support.
NB 624 V1 comes with EVA pockets at the heel and injection-molded EVA midsoles to keep your feet fatigue-free. The ABZORB cushioning on its midsole region offers the comfort and stability throughout your foot. This pair comes with a rubber outsole that protects you from slipping while providing proper traction. However, it’s not available in several colors, so you don’t have numerous options to choose from.
Specs
- Sole: Rubber
- Material: Leather
- Size: 4-13.5 (US)
Pros
- Durable
- Breathable
- Well-cushioned
- Comfortable
- It offers proper grip
Cons
- It’s only available in 2 colors
Overall Rating – 4.4 out of 5
Conclusion
NB 624 V1 is a stylish pair designed to keep your feet safe for an extended period. This pair is well-cushioned, lightweight, and breathable, so you will never have to worry about fatigue or blisters.
9. Skechers Soft Stride Softie Work Shoes
This Skechers pair is a professional-looking shoe that features a perfect combination of comfort and style. This versatile pair is ideal for people who spend a considerable percentage of their time walking and standing. The Soft Stride Softie comes with a well-padded tongue and collar and a full lace-up panel for optimal comfort. It also has a soft and flexible upper that is stain and scuff resistant.
Soft Stride Softie has a durable sole that offers excellent traction on wet and slippery surfaces. For all-day support, this pair has a natural cotton blend cushioning. And to provide you with ample padding and heel, it has a 0.5-inch platform and 1-inch heel.
Soft Stride Softie comes with a removable contoured PU-insole. This pair comes with OSHA-compliant slip-resistant rubber outsole with durable treads. These soles can keep your feet comfortable for a very long time. Its unique sole supports and cradles your feet while walking. However, they can be a tad heavy for some wearers.
Specs
- Material: Leather
- Sole: Synthetic
- Size: 5-13 (US)
Pros
- Durable
- Comfortable
- Slip-resistant
- It comes with a removable contoured insole
- Roomier toe box
Cons
- It can be a tad heavy for some wearers
Overall Rating – 4.3 out of 5
Conclusion
As its name suggests, this pair is designed to provide a comfortable and soft ride. Skechers designed this pair for people who have extended shifts. Therefore, they made sure that it is durable, comfortable, well-padded, and flexible.
Buyer Guide: Factors To Consider When Looking For The Best Shoes For Servers
There are numerous reasons why servers are always facing painful syndromes that are caused by their profession. And one of the main reasons is wearing the wrong shoes while moving around and serving the diners. After all, standing the whole day can take a toll on your body. Therefore wearing the best shoes for waiters is mandatory in this profession.
But choosing the right pair can be quite challenging, especially with the numerous options in the market. Remember, the best option should be lightweight, flexible, breathable, and well-cushioned. So here are some key factors to consider when looking for the best servers’ shoes.
The Design Of The Shoe
Presentation is a crucial element in the food industry. Remember how your look comes before the quality of your service and how you communicate in this industry. Your looks create an excellent impression for your workplace with both your employers and clients.
Other than your hairstyle and uniform, you need stylish footwear that goes with the job. So look for a professional-looking pair that is also attractive.
Comfort
One of the major mistakes done by servers is getting an attractive pair that doesn’t provide the needed comfort. This error has resulted in fatigue and feet pain. And when your feet are uncomfortable, you tend to become moody and easily distracted.
Therefore, you should get a pair that offers a perfect balance between comfort and style. So make sure you check the type of cushioning inside a shoe. Excessive standing and walking the whole day puts a lot of stress on your heels.
Traction
Servers walk back and forth between the tables and the kitchen while balancing a food tray on their hands. Sometimes they spend a lot of time on wet slippery surfaces. And since slipping down with the diner’s meal on their hands is not an option, make sure your shoes are slip-resistant. After all, sudden slips can cause more than just spill the client’s food.
Breathability
Waiters spend their entire shift walking and standing while wearing the same outfit and shoes. And walking from hot kitchens to serve the diner can result in moisture or sweat in their shoes. The sweat can irritate the feet resulting in blisters and the shoe being smelly. Therefore, make sure you get a pair that is highly ventilated. Shoes with a leather and mesh upper material can keep your feet dry.
Proper Support
Ankle and arch support are mandatory in the best shoes for waiters. Remember, servers work non-stop all day long. And lack of support can result in severe injuries in your feet and lower back. Shoes with proper arch and ankle support will balance your weight evenly and prevent sudden foot twist.
Final Thoughts
Working in the food and service industry can be quite demanding, especially for servers. Waiters are always on their feet, moving from the kitchen to the tables and making sure the diners are satisfied. Therefore, they need well-cushioned and breathable footwear that can prevent fatigue and keep them safe.
The right servers’ shoes incorporate numerous features that are designed to keep you safe. The best shoes can improve your experience and keep you smiling throughout your shift. Remember, proper traction and flexibility is mandatory. We have created the above review of the best options to help you choose the best shoes for waitresses and waiters.
We have concluded that Skechers for Work Flex Advantage Mcallen Food Service Shoe is the best option from our research. This pair provides the durability and comfort of high-end shoes in an affordable package.
