I hurt my foot in June.  It was fine one day and killing me the next day.  Since then I’ve had it x-rayed and have started to see a Podiatrist.  Now I have insoles in my shoes and I wrap my foot everyday before I go to work.  This is scaring me in a way I can’t describe.  If I can’t stand, I can’t work.

I’m wondering what kind of shoes other chefs are wearing.  Have you found on that gives you good support?  I need input so that I can find something to replace what I’ve got — I was wearing clogs.

Thanks.

I wear a pair of black leather walking shoes… very comfy , and good for long hours :) 

Thanks.  Do you know the brand?  Also, do they tie up or are they slip on?

They are lace ups ( I prefer laces myself :) and they are made by Deer Stags ,  just simple , comfy shoes… good sole on them too .   Hope that helps.  

Bummer about your foot.  I also use lace up shoes, they give more support.  It can be difficult to keep them clean around the laces but they’re worth the extra effort.

Hey Chef. I had to wear shoes from ShoesForCrews some years back. They are definately better than off the shelf shoes since they have non-slip soles. I found them uncomfortable as all hell, but if you are wearing orthotics, that shouldn’t be a problem. I used to wear Dansko clogs but switched to Birki’s a few yrs ago. They bring me closer to the ground from a large sole, which helps my weak ankles. I’ve rolled them a few times in the Dansko’s. The best part about Birki’s is you buy the shells and can purchase replacement cork inserts when you need them. It is reccomended to switch out the inserts so you have two in the works. Good Luck w/ your search.

Anything I can just slip on and stand in for hours works best for me. Crocs are amazing for long hours on your feet ;)

At times the issue may not even depend on the footware, but could be due to you compensating for your hurt foot. I know this will sound crazy, but it might be better if you take off a few weeks and really take care of your foot! Most chefs will laugh out loud and then curse you: but if they have any sense, they should try to accomodate you a bit. It’s better for them to have you back in a few weeks in 100% condition, rather than you being 100% gone, because your condition prevails! If this does not work: maybe you can do another job in the kitchen which does not need standing all day long; or you are allowed to work while you sit; sounds strange but it’s possible to work also that way. Anyway: all the best!

Shoes for crews brand. Street hiker ankle boots for the kitchen. They wear very well, have non-slip and support the ankle very well for those 12 hour on your feet days. Oxford style for the dress / lace up version. Very nice looking, goes with suit or slack, has the non slip sole and wears well.

I have been wearing Shoes for Crews for over 15 years now. I’ve tried other non-slip brands, but always come home to them.

Good for you chef, do you know if they sell it online?

Yes they do. Simply, www.shoesforcrews.com 

Thanks Chef! Will definitely take a look at this!

The MOST COMFORTABLE shoes anywhere are called Sketcher’s shape ups work shoes with leather uppers. Non-Slip soles! I wear these for 12 hrs at a time. Nothing better I guarantee you!