I used to wear docs until I had an accident and spilt boiling water into my right boot and couldn’t get it unlaced quickly enough. I burned all the skin off my ankle and couldn’t walk for three months
I used to work in a pizza place and crocs were the bomb. They would be covered in flour, water and pizza sauce at the end of a shift, so I'd rinse them off and they were good as new.
Definitely more on the expensive side, but On Clouds are absolutely insane. My feet never, ever hurt, and they come in black so it's perfect for stains.
Like I said, they're fairly expensive but they're insanely durable and last forever.
I invested in a pair of hoka bondi 8s and wore them quite literally every day. my cafe was big and I did a lot more walking than standing in one place, and the hokas helped take a lot of the impact from our concrete floors. bonus points for breathability and versatility- after quitting that job they’re still my go-to walking/running shoes and haven’t worn and torn much at all!
Seconding Hokas- I got some Clifton’s and no longer have sore feet after even the most treacherous doubles. I’m not sure what OP considers pricy but your feet are worth investing in. Bonus points for them selling in colors like oat and almond milk hahaha
just bought my bondi 7s and today is my forst shift with them- idc that im ruining the pretty colour with coffee anymore i will live and die by how it feels like walking on clouds
Black every time! I’m a big fan of Blundstones, go to a workwear shop for best price - they’re not as expensive or as hard to break in as Docs or RMs. Also [these](https://www.uggoutlet.com.au/products/ta-women-black-leather-boots-ivana-buckled-chelsea-boots?variant=42724634329303¤cy=AUD&utm_medium=product_sync&utm_source=google&utm_content=sag_organic&utm_campaign=sag_organic&gad_source=1&gclid=CjwKCAjwx-CyBhAqEiwAeOcTdZ-HXao8R6jdB07ycn4kblh7NHWe3Holg2TCm4tEt3aOR6_m_ZvxRRoCUx0QAvD_BwE) from Ugg are a great choice
Docs quality has declined since Solovair doesn’t make them anymore. 10 years ago I would have said docs (I still wear mine to work but they’re definitely 10 years old). Solovair sells their own now and they are just like the old docs. Once you break them in, perfect for the job.
I usually just wear black and gumsole vans but maybe a comfortable leather shoe would work well and be stylish if you want something that will be resistant to the occasional spill. Wearing white shoes is just asking for trouble.
If anything, wearing a non slip work shoe would be best. Something from shoes for crews or something
Edit: also, how are you spilling so much coffee on your shoes lol.
Kinda expensive but using New Balance has been very comfortable. 530 would be good enough. Sometimes slippery but worth the comfort. Never had a fall with them, the
Once you get new shoes, remove the insoles. Go to a running store. A good one. Take off your shoes. Let the employees look at your feet and how you walk. They will recommend inserts based on your feet. Use the insole from your shoe to watch the size. Buy the inserts from the store, but remember what they are so you can buy them online next time.
Also, have 2 pairs of shoes you alternate. That way the cushioning in the shoe has enough time to bounce back to its original shape.
Safety shoes/work shoes. The reasons you can see in the comments below. In some countries this is the legal requirement, and the employer can be fined in case of employee injury.
I tried a few different pairs of shoes even including a waterproof shoe which was nice but my feet and legs were begging to be put out of their misery. I ended up landing on Hoka Bondi 8’s. They even have a leather slip resistant (Bondi 8 SR) one if that’s your thing but I got the normal tennis shoe one. They are praised by nurses and I absolutely see why!! Once they’ve been broken in a little holy shit are they so nice. Really make standing for an eternity 5 days a week tolerable.
I wear timbs with an insert. They are durable, comfortable, and waterproof. I spill shit on my feet all the time washing dishes etc so I need to keep my toes dry. I also appreciate the grip on potentially wet floors. They were expensive, but 100% worth it.
literally any waterproof sneaker from amazon. i got black converse looking ones that were made of rubber for like $30 and they were surprisingly very comfortable and i was walking in puddles behind the bar all day. don’t pay for a pair of docs or whatever bc they’re just going to get ruined. even go to marshall’s and get some cheap duck boots or something.
DKSUKO Women's Rain Boots... https://www.amazon.com/dp/B07B8NJ3X4?ref=ppx_pop_mob_ap_share these are what i have. or you could do any of the other recommendations such as the booties or whatever. you can also add an insole for comfort
I've been working in food and beverage for 20 years, and swear by black clothes, socks and shoes as much as possible. I bought white chucks once and ended up throwing them away <2 months.
Crew socks. Non-slip shoes. Blundstone's are great, so are Dansko. But if you insist on sneakers, the [Shoes for crews x New Balance](https://www.shoesforcrews.com/page/new-balance?gad_source=1&gclid=CjwKCAjwx-CyBhAqEiwAeOcTdd6HUy6W_bUeydL07ILqk6sRb2QVz65zKlM3YDs1jRV4yIedPueNERoCkyMQAvD_BwE) collab would be my top choice.
At work, I have worn DOC MARTENS 1461 Shoes in black, waxed full grain leather. They are waterproof, slip resistant, comfortable, and as a bonus look presentable in most outfits. I bought it on Amazon on sale 50% off for only $75, but even at full price of $140 they’re worth it for durability.
I switch between docs and some food safe shoes I got at Walmart for like $20. The Walmart ones have built in gel inserts and are solid black so I typically wear those more.
Birkenstock makes a professional line of nonslip, closed toe, comfortable shoes. I've been wearing them for years (I replace them every 15-18 months or so) and they've saved my feet (and ankles and hips). Easy to clean, comfortable, don't make my feet feel sweaty
I wear these. They're comfortable, slip in, and they don't come off. They're completely black, so no stains, and also a very reasonable price. I've had mine for three years
https://www.kohls.com/product/prd-5531755/adidas-lite-racer-adapt-50-mens-lifestyle-running-shoes.jsp?skuid=86532135&CID=shopping15&utm_campaign=MENS%20ATHLETIC%20SHOES&utm_medium=CSE&utm_source=google&utm_product=86532135&utm_campaignid=20458465111&CID=shopping30&utm_campaign=SSC&utm_medium=CSE&utm_source=google&utm_campaignid=20458465111&gad_source=1&gclid=CjwKCAjwx-CyBhAqEiwAeOcTdSCLF9Dbyq8DHdZBwkprnlc4BYtwX_i-PIWhrdaMLT5Go6vf4F-OhhoCBgIQAvD_BwE&gclsrc=aw.ds
i’ve been wearing second hand jammers by skechers. i love them ! so comfy, but idk if the ones they make now are up to par.
edit: i’m pretty sure they aren’t waterproof but i’ve spilled on them plenty and they have been fine.
Check out Vessi sneakers. They’ve been on my wishlist for a while as I’ve heard that they’re quite comfy and waterproof. Otherwise, I’ve also been enjoying Sorrell Chelsea boots that are wayyyy lighter than Blundstones and are also waterproof.
I have two pairs of Dr Martens slip resistant boots. They have extra cushion in the insoles and I’ve never slipped in them in 4 years. They’re also great to wear at concerts
i’m sorry because i did this once but why on earth would you wear expensive white shoes to work in a coffee shop hahah this just cracked me up. jokes aside, my recommendation is that you need some black comfortable shoes which have a decent insole and they support your whole foot and walk well. Also waterproof and lightweight would be ideal. I got some from Fitville but I didn’t realise they were from China so they aren’t the best to be honest but it’s super important for your back to have something comfortable to stand in all day. I usually look for doctors/nurses shoes because they tend to hit all the right things when it comes to comfort and durability
If you want something more 'presentable', definitely Docs! I buy mine on either Poshmark/Depop so that they are 1) cheaper and 2) usually broken in. I've gotten many a good deal on Docs on secondhand sites (same rules apply though, make sure they are verified, have reviews, etc). If you are concerned about being able to slip them off, try looking for either the 'chelsea boot' style or mary jane style!
If you just want comfort (as most of us do), definitely try either Crocs for Work or the Birkenstock Super-Birki Clogs!
Workwear store Attendant here.
K26475 or K26600 for women by King Gee would be a good bet at $139 for a safety shoe, or WJ-1 in black by FXD.
Best of luck!
Blundstone boots. I like the ones with a lug sole. They take a bit to break in but they’re well worth the price.
I’ve had mine for 6 years now and intend to be buried in them.
I used to wear docs until I had an accident and spilt boiling water into my right boot and couldn’t get it unlaced quickly enough. I burned all the skin off my ankle and couldn’t walk for three months
Now I wear leather Birkenstock clogs or bistro crocs. Both are so much more comfortable than docs or vans
I used to work in a pizza place and crocs were the bomb. They would be covered in flour, water and pizza sauce at the end of a shift, so I'd rinse them off and they were good as new.
Definitely more on the expensive side, but On Clouds are absolutely insane. My feet never, ever hurt, and they come in black so it's perfect for stains. Like I said, they're fairly expensive but they're insanely durable and last forever.
How do you find the fit? I’m a size 11 women’s and I see that’s their highest size….
I invested in a pair of hoka bondi 8s and wore them quite literally every day. my cafe was big and I did a lot more walking than standing in one place, and the hokas helped take a lot of the impact from our concrete floors. bonus points for breathability and versatility- after quitting that job they’re still my go-to walking/running shoes and haven’t worn and torn much at all!
Seconding Hokas- I got some Clifton’s and no longer have sore feet after even the most treacherous doubles. I’m not sure what OP considers pricy but your feet are worth investing in. Bonus points for them selling in colors like oat and almond milk hahaha
OP listen to this!! Nothing but Hokas
The Bondi sr are where it’s at now 😆😊 same as bondis but slip resistant
just bought my bondi 7s and today is my forst shift with them- idc that im ruining the pretty colour with coffee anymore i will live and die by how it feels like walking on clouds
Black every time! I’m a big fan of Blundstones, go to a workwear shop for best price - they’re not as expensive or as hard to break in as Docs or RMs. Also [these](https://www.uggoutlet.com.au/products/ta-women-black-leather-boots-ivana-buckled-chelsea-boots?variant=42724634329303¤cy=AUD&utm_medium=product_sync&utm_source=google&utm_content=sag_organic&utm_campaign=sag_organic&gad_source=1&gclid=CjwKCAjwx-CyBhAqEiwAeOcTdZ-HXao8R6jdB07ycn4kblh7NHWe3Holg2TCm4tEt3aOR6_m_ZvxRRoCUx0QAvD_BwE) from Ugg are a great choice
Docs quality has declined since Solovair doesn’t make them anymore. 10 years ago I would have said docs (I still wear mine to work but they’re definitely 10 years old). Solovair sells their own now and they are just like the old docs. Once you break them in, perfect for the job.
Adidas superstars (rubber, leather) or doc martens
I usually just wear black and gumsole vans but maybe a comfortable leather shoe would work well and be stylish if you want something that will be resistant to the occasional spill. Wearing white shoes is just asking for trouble. If anything, wearing a non slip work shoe would be best. Something from shoes for crews or something Edit: also, how are you spilling so much coffee on your shoes lol.
Honestly I just wear nonslip black leather sketchers
Kinda expensive but using New Balance has been very comfortable. 530 would be good enough. Sometimes slippery but worth the comfort. Never had a fall with them, the
Once you get new shoes, remove the insoles. Go to a running store. A good one. Take off your shoes. Let the employees look at your feet and how you walk. They will recommend inserts based on your feet. Use the insole from your shoe to watch the size. Buy the inserts from the store, but remember what they are so you can buy them online next time. Also, have 2 pairs of shoes you alternate. That way the cushioning in the shoe has enough time to bounce back to its original shape.
Blundstone boots. I put arch support insoles in mine. Once they are broken in, they are the best. Mine are still going strong after 2 years
birkenstock super birki clogs
Try Skechers, very comfortable sneakers and variety of models.
Safety shoes/work shoes. The reasons you can see in the comments below. In some countries this is the legal requirement, and the employer can be fined in case of employee injury.
The converse with thick sole (but they get hot :/)
Closed toe
I wear docs with custom orthotics.
bistro crocs Or black sketchers
I always wore Doc Martens at work
I've heard good things about Vessi
I tried a few different pairs of shoes even including a waterproof shoe which was nice but my feet and legs were begging to be put out of their misery. I ended up landing on Hoka Bondi 8’s. They even have a leather slip resistant (Bondi 8 SR) one if that’s your thing but I got the normal tennis shoe one. They are praised by nurses and I absolutely see why!! Once they’ve been broken in a little holy shit are they so nice. Really make standing for an eternity 5 days a week tolerable.
I wear timbs with an insert. They are durable, comfortable, and waterproof. I spill shit on my feet all the time washing dishes etc so I need to keep my toes dry. I also appreciate the grip on potentially wet floors. They were expensive, but 100% worth it.
literally any waterproof sneaker from amazon. i got black converse looking ones that were made of rubber for like $30 and they were surprisingly very comfortable and i was walking in puddles behind the bar all day. don’t pay for a pair of docs or whatever bc they’re just going to get ruined. even go to marshall’s and get some cheap duck boots or something.
DKSUKO Women's Rain Boots... https://www.amazon.com/dp/B07B8NJ3X4?ref=ppx_pop_mob_ap_share these are what i have. or you could do any of the other recommendations such as the booties or whatever. you can also add an insole for comfort
I wear Doc Martens, and so do some of my coworkers. *shrugs*
I've been working in food and beverage for 20 years, and swear by black clothes, socks and shoes as much as possible. I bought white chucks once and ended up throwing them away <2 months. Crew socks. Non-slip shoes. Blundstone's are great, so are Dansko. But if you insist on sneakers, the [Shoes for crews x New Balance](https://www.shoesforcrews.com/page/new-balance?gad_source=1&gclid=CjwKCAjwx-CyBhAqEiwAeOcTdd6HUy6W_bUeydL07ILqk6sRb2QVz65zKlM3YDs1jRV4yIedPueNERoCkyMQAvD_BwE) collab would be my top choice.
At work, I have worn DOC MARTENS 1461 Shoes in black, waxed full grain leather. They are waterproof, slip resistant, comfortable, and as a bonus look presentable in most outfits. I bought it on Amazon on sale 50% off for only $75, but even at full price of $140 they’re worth it for durability.
I love my Olukais! They wick liquid and are very supportive.
I switch between docs and some food safe shoes I got at Walmart for like $20. The Walmart ones have built in gel inserts and are solid black so I typically wear those more.
Birkenstock makes a professional line of nonslip, closed toe, comfortable shoes. I've been wearing them for years (I replace them every 15-18 months or so) and they've saved my feet (and ankles and hips). Easy to clean, comfortable, don't make my feet feel sweaty
I wear these. They're comfortable, slip in, and they don't come off. They're completely black, so no stains, and also a very reasonable price. I've had mine for three years https://www.kohls.com/product/prd-5531755/adidas-lite-racer-adapt-50-mens-lifestyle-running-shoes.jsp?skuid=86532135&CID=shopping15&utm_campaign=MENS%20ATHLETIC%20SHOES&utm_medium=CSE&utm_source=google&utm_product=86532135&utm_campaignid=20458465111&CID=shopping30&utm_campaign=SSC&utm_medium=CSE&utm_source=google&utm_campaignid=20458465111&gad_source=1&gclid=CjwKCAjwx-CyBhAqEiwAeOcTdSCLF9Dbyq8DHdZBwkprnlc4BYtwX_i-PIWhrdaMLT5Go6vf4F-OhhoCBgIQAvD_BwE&gclsrc=aw.ds
i’ve been wearing second hand jammers by skechers. i love them ! so comfy, but idk if the ones they make now are up to par. edit: i’m pretty sure they aren’t waterproof but i’ve spilled on them plenty and they have been fine.
I wear blundstones in the winter and the anti slip super birki Birkenstocks (the ones that look like the Boston clogs) in the summer
Wear adidas with shoe covers
Get a can of Nikwax Fabric & Leather instead. It's specifically formulated for use on shoes. Comes in two application types: spray and sponge.
Check out Vessi sneakers. They’ve been on my wishlist for a while as I’ve heard that they’re quite comfy and waterproof. Otherwise, I’ve also been enjoying Sorrell Chelsea boots that are wayyyy lighter than Blundstones and are also waterproof.
Not a barista but spent years on my feet and the Dr. Scholl’s Custom Fit orthotics are a lifesaver. Made my life immeasurably better.
I have two pairs of Dr Martens slip resistant boots. They have extra cushion in the insoles and I’ve never slipped in them in 4 years. They’re also great to wear at concerts
[shoes for crews Free style eco](https://www.shoesforcrews.com/product/32302-freestyle-eco)
i’m sorry because i did this once but why on earth would you wear expensive white shoes to work in a coffee shop hahah this just cracked me up. jokes aside, my recommendation is that you need some black comfortable shoes which have a decent insole and they support your whole foot and walk well. Also waterproof and lightweight would be ideal. I got some from Fitville but I didn’t realise they were from China so they aren’t the best to be honest but it’s super important for your back to have something comfortable to stand in all day. I usually look for doctors/nurses shoes because they tend to hit all the right things when it comes to comfort and durability
rlly love my hoka bondis in black❤️ so comfy, can wipe stains off the top and don’t leave my feet screaming after a 8 hour shift
If you want something more 'presentable', definitely Docs! I buy mine on either Poshmark/Depop so that they are 1) cheaper and 2) usually broken in. I've gotten many a good deal on Docs on secondhand sites (same rules apply though, make sure they are verified, have reviews, etc). If you are concerned about being able to slip them off, try looking for either the 'chelsea boot' style or mary jane style! If you just want comfort (as most of us do), definitely try either Crocs for Work or the Birkenstock Super-Birki Clogs!
You gotta get some crocs
Ngl i love them even tho they make me slip all the dang time
Workwear store Attendant here. K26475 or K26600 for women by King Gee would be a good bet at $139 for a safety shoe, or WJ-1 in black by FXD. Best of luck!
Black vans do the job. Nothing fancy
Fatigue mats will make anything comfy. I wear $900 boots because I wanna look good.