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Work Shoes

5 Best Shoes for Standing on Concrete All Day Reviewed!

A lot of work situations require an extended period of standing. Bartenders, construction workers, doctors, nurses, chefs, and many other dedicated professionals often stand all day when duty calls.

Even if your job doesn’t need you to stand for a long time, you can find yourself in similar situations on occasions like weddings or concerts. Regardless of why you’re standing, what matters is what you’re wearing on your feet during those long hours.

If you happen to rock a pair that’s not made for that kind of application, it can be devastating for your feet, or worse, it can make you hate your job. But what makes a pair of shoes good for standing? You will find a wide variety of options on the market for running or exercising but they’re not perfect for the job either. So, finding the right pair for standing can be very difficult.

Stop wondering if you are because we’ll guide you to some of the highest quality shoes that you can use to stand on concrete all day. We have come up with a list of the 5 most suitable shoes that can get you through those tiring hours with comfort and ease. Here, we’ll share our experience with them and how each of them worked for us so that you can have a closer look at them.

5 Most Suitable Shoes You Can Buy

01 Slow Man Women’s Walking Shoes Sock Sneakers (Editor’s Pick)

Why It Stands Out to Us

The quality material of the Sock Sneakers from Slow Man gives you absolute comfort in great style. From a plethora of design options, you can choose the style that suits you the most. These pairs are suitable for standing long hours, walking, running or casual outings.

They also feature mesh breathable uppers that keep your feet feeling fresh in all conditions. The air cushion eases the foot and back pain while the raised heels help make you look taller.

On top of that, they’re extremely budget friendly. So, you won’t have to worry about having to rob a bank or something. No matter if you’re looking for comfort or style from a new pair of shoes, our top pick can do it all.

Our Experience With the Slow Man Women’s Walking Shoes

  • We loved the looks on them ever since the first glance. The material felt very soft and the build quality was satisfactory as well.
  • Being slip-on style sneakers, these pairs were extremely easy to take on/off. They were extremely lightweight and had an easy bend.
  • Slow man gave a high heel to the Sock Sneakers.This seemed to ease the pressure off the back and help with back pain and foot arch by shifting the weight of the body.
  • The bubble bouncing cushions compressed while walking. This added an extra bit of comfort to the shoes, which you can’t get from many expensive choices.
  • Flat-footed people and ones with foot injuries can wear them comfortably and walk around for hours without triggering any pain. They provided ample arch support that seemed to help avoid pain from bunions or plantar fasciitis.
  • Those whose jobs require them to stand for long hours can wear them comfortably. The pair cushions your feet so you can walk miles comfortably without developing blisters or sore feet.
  • The toe box had plenty of space that allowed us to walk freely without any pain. The toes had ample wiggle room and appeared to be comfortable enough for people with plantar fasciitis. They also had room to add more inserts if required.
  • The appearance seemed exclusive enough for office and the sneakers can also be worn on casual outings or at home. The black pair looked elegant and easily went with everything.
  • The traction on them was superb and stopped us from slipping on any surface. The textured treads didn’t pick pebbles or dirt and were very easy to clean.

What We Didn’t Like

  • The fabric was not water-resistant.
  • Some users have complaints about the sizing.

What Could Be Improved

  • Water-resistant material could be added.
  • Support on the sides could be better.

Our Recommendations

  • The flexible fabric is prone to running big. Sizing ½ size down gives a comfortable fit in the long run.

Specifications

  • Dimensions: 12.6’’ x 9.49’’ x 3.82’’
  • Weight: 14.11 oz
  • Material: mesh fabric
  • Soles: rubber
  • Available for: Women
  • Available Styles: 27

Pros

  • Lightweight
  • Breathable
  • Slip-on style
  • Elevates height
  • Sufficient toe box room
  • Stylish
  • Good traction

Cons

  • Not waterproof

02 Adidas Women’s Cloudfoam Pure Running Shoe (Top Women’s Choice)

Why it stands out to us

The name Adidas needs no introduction. This running pair from the famous footwear manufacturers is perfect for everyday use due to their breathability and light construction. They come in a sleek design and attractive colors that will suit any style you want to rock. Besides, these super comfy sneakers start at a very affordable price range. So, stop looking elsewhere and pamper your feet with the Cloudfoam running shoes.

Our experience with the Adidas Cloudfoam

  • Like all Adidas shoes, these pairs came in with exceptional packaging. We loved them straight out of the box. The design on each of the pairs was spot-on and the material gave a premium feel to the touch.
  • As the name suggests, the Cloudfoam’s soles make you feel like standing on actual clouds! The pair came with comfortable memory foams that seemed incredibly relaxing.
  • The unbelievably low amount of weight made them feel like walking on air and perfect for running or working out. The light foam soles gave us a different experience from what we were used to.
  • We measured the pairs and found out that the sizing was very accurate. Each of our team members found the perfect fit for themselves.
  • Even the light color options of these pairs didn’t get stained easily. We could clean them easily with a wet towel after a jog.
  • They took away the stress of long walks and acted as a comfortable base when we had to stand for hours. We put them to work for 8 straight hours on our trip to Disneyland and returned with fresh feet.
  • The normal size seemed a bit roomy. However, this proved to be an advantage to us since most of our team members have wide feet. The rest of us took advantage of the extra space by accommodating thick compression socks. The little space in the pair is very kind on your feet while standing for 10-12 hours every day.
  • They were made from flexible and breathable fabric. The appropriate air circulation ensured sweat-free feet even after wearing them all day long.
  • Despite being slip on they came with a functional lace that could make the shoes tighter to adjust the comfort if needed. They were also easy to put on/off.
  • From our tests, we can confirm that people with bunions, foot, or hip surgeries can wear them comfortably. The spacious helps these pairs fit orthotics perfectly, which makes them a no  brainer for people with rheumatoid arthritis, plantar fasciitis, feet injuries, osteoarthritis, shoulder or back issues.
  • The traction in the soles was great and they didn’t make any squeaking noise.

What We Didn’t Like

  • The flexible fabric seemed prone to running big. We had to go a size down for a comfortable fit in the long run.

What Could Be Improved

  • Toughening up the soles will make the shoes ideal for hiking.

Our Recommendations

  • For more support, try using tri support insoles.

Specifications

  • Dimensions- 5’’ x 2’’ x 2’’
  • Material-  synthetic
  • Sole- rubber sole
  • Weight- 6 oz
  • Available For: Women
  • Available Styles: 36

Pros

  • Memory soles
  • Lightweight
  • Short break-ins
  • Extremely flexible
  • Breathable construction
  • Slip-on style
  • Good traction

Cons

  • Not suitable for intense workouts

03 Skechers Men’s Afterburn Memory-Foam Lace-up Sneaker (Top Men’s Choice)

Why It Stands Out to Us

The Skechers Men’s Afterburn is a flexible sporty training sneaker built with smooth leather, mesh, and synthetic upper and quality stitching. The memory foam inserts and the cushioned tongue makes them very comfortable. The rubber sole gives these shoes high traction on slippery wet surfaces.

This lifestyle footgear provides enough arch support that helps to fight leg pain and the gel-like memory foam gives a comfortable surface even for people with plantar fasciitis. Having all these quality features and a reasonable price tag, these shoes are easily one of the best footwear options out there for men.

Our Experience With the Skechers Men’s Afterburn

  • We were hyped to get started with these pairs ever since the unboxing. We ordered a few of the available designs and each one looked solid. The design looked out of the world while the build quality was top-notch as well.
  • Made of breathable material they held great when we took them out to the Grand Canyon. The pair didn’t make our feet hot even at 80 degrees with no sweat build-up even in suffocating places. They also managed to keep our feet warm and comfortable while hiking in 20-degree weather. The shoes held up great even after these extensive hiking sessions.
  • Built with durable quality material the Men’s Afterburn remained solid after being battle-tested for months. The well-put structure holds its stature even after months of continuous use. We walked an average of 9 miles each day on rough rocky pathways and the pair took the beating like a champion.
  • The thick solid soles made them perfect for hiking trips and cardio sessions. They didn’t wear much even after putting hundreds of miles in them through rough terrains. People working on construction sites with hard concrete under their feet can wear these comfortably for a long hour without any pain.
  • They were easy to clean and showed relatively less wear and tear after months of use. Wipe the dust off with a damp cloth and they are good to go for dressier occasions. The stylish design looked handsome with a prominent logo on the sides and seemed perfect for casual wear. The dark colors options offered a subtle look- good enough to work.
  • Skechers gets a huge thumbs-up for putting a memory foam insole into the Men’s Afterburn. Most shoes don’t come with this feature and you have to buy them extra. The foam gave a comfortable gel-like cushioning and supported the feet even after standing all day. They also had a cushioned mesh tongue that made the pair more comfortable.
  • The sneakers seemed amazing for endurance and fighting fatigue. They absorb the shock of walking and help people battle plantar fasciitis while the arch support eases leg pain.
  • They were wide enough to fit ideally and were true to their size. Coming with a good amount of flexibility and laces of the right length, they offered great support not only for the feet but also the long spine. Overall, they seemed more substantial than athletic sneakers with fabric/mesh material.
  • They had short break-in periods and we could wear them comfortably all day right after the purchase without any hot spots or blisters.

What We Didn’t Like

  • Overall they fit great but may feel a bit tight and require a little break-in when you first wear them. However, the initial discomfort disappears after a few miles of walking.

What Could Be Improved-

  • The insoles should be easy to take off making it easier to replace.

Our Recommendations-

  • They fit perfectly with regular socks but for thicker socks, consider going half size up. Inserts can also be added if you require extra arch support.
  • The memory foam takes a little time to compress and adjust into the shape of your feet and wears out faster than the shoes. You can squeeze a few more years of service out of the shoes by replacing the foam.
  • A protective weather spray will help fight the weather elements and make the shoes last even longer.
  • Use a hairdryer to heat the insoles before removing them. The heat makes it easy to scrape the glue off.

Specifications

  • Dimensions- 12.5’’ x 9.6’’ x 12.24’’
  • Weight 12.24 oz
  • Material- synthetic mesh fabric, smooth leather
  • Soles- rubber
  • Available For: Men
  • Available Styles: 12

Pros

  • Breathable
  •  Incredibly durable
  • Thick soles
  • Easy cleaning
  • Memory foam inserts
  • Comfortable
  •  Helps fight fatigue

Cons

  • Feels stiff during the break-in period

04 New Balance Women’s FuelCore Nergize V1 Sneaker (Best for Working on Concrete)

Why It Stands Out to Us-

The New Balance Women’s FuelCore Nergize V1 Sneakers are practical and stylish. They are a sleek slip-on pair that goes perfectly with everyday activities. Whether running, walking your dog, staying upright on your feet or driving all day, hustling in the gym, and even going to work, the FuelCore Nergize’s soft inside and lightweight make you forget you have them on. If maximum comfort is your top priority, there aren’t many better options than the Negize V1 sneakers.

Our Experience With the New Balance FuelCore Nergize V1

  • We were impressed by the build quality and the materials used in the sneakers. Each pair came with an unique and attractive design.
  • The base felt supportive and sturdy while the inside was soft cushiony. The shoes were kind to our feet even after being in them for over 12 hours each day of the week. We didn’t experience any swelling or blisters.
  • New Balance used mesh as the upper material, which made the sneakers light and breathable. They used an even lighter mesh on the sides over the arches to reduce further weight. This material maintained optimum air circulation kept our feet cool and dry in  humid weather. This gave us the option to wear the Negize V1 shoes with or without socks.
  • These attractive shoes looked great with shorts and jeans. Choose a stealthy design and you can even wear them to work.
  • With the stretchy material fitting like a glove, these pairs accommodated orthotics comfortably. Besides, NB included sizing options for people with wide feet to find their best fit.
  • The incredibly light mass made the pair a comfortable choice for everyday use. They were extremely flexible and bent easily allowing us to maintain the perfect form in our daily activities.
  • Despite not having high arches they were very comfy.  New Balance managed to keep the effects of the plantar fascia at bay. If needed, you have the option to add orthotics by removing the insole. The low soles also seemed to help with back problems.
  • The lack of big high heels made them perfect for avoiding injuries and maintaining the right posture during workouts was fairly effortless. Squatting or deadlifting the bars didn’t tip us forward, keeping the body stable.
  • Snugging up against the feet, the stretchy material offered a tight but comfortable grip and kept the shoes in place. They seemed great for driving in long trips, weightlifting, walking, basic cardio, and even office work.

What We Didn’t Like

  • The mesh material on the upper makes the FuelCore Nergize breathable. This also means that they do not come with water-resistant features.
  • There was no ankle or arch support.

What could be improved

  • Using scratch resistant material for their construction.
  • Arch and ankle support could be added.

Our Recommendations

  • Go for a dark color as light ones stain easily. Spraying a scratch-resistant protective coat may help if you are already set on glowing colors.
  • New Balance have their own sizing methods, which doesn’t match completely with the conventional sizing numbers. We would suggest you go half size up to be on the safer side.

Specifications

  • Dimensions 12.3 x 7.3 x 4.6 inches
  • Weight: 1.2 lbs
  • Sole Material: Rubber
  • Available For: Women
  • Available Styles: 34

Pros

  • Extremely comfortable
  • Ultra lightweight
  • Removable insert
  • Slip-on style
  • Sizing options for wide feet
  • Easily affordable

Cons

  • Lacks arch and ankle support
  • No water resistant features

05 Under Armour Men’s Charged Assert 8 Running Shoe (Best for Running)

Why It Stands Out to Us

Under Armour takes comfort to the next level with the Charged Assert 8 shoes. Blended with the perfect balance of cushioning and flexibility, this pair offers a fresh snugness to the feet. The aggressive tread grip design makes them perfect for running. The lightweight, great support, and neat layout makes the Charged Assert 8 a top choice for people with orthopedic complaints. If you’re looking for a pair of running shoes, look no further and pick the Charged Assert 8.

Our Experience With the Charged Assert 8

  • Straight out of the box, the pairs looked incredibly good. The design and build quality was top-notch and the material felt solid as well.
  • We loved the comfort and support they provided even while standing on hard surfaces for a long period. The insole featured soft breathable materials that gave a pleasant experience.
  • The pairs were true to the size and came with plenty of cushioning and an adequate foot ‘grab’. The shoes fit great and gave the heels a snug hug that wasn’t very tight leaving plenty of wiggle room for the toes.
  • We noticed a perfect balance of weight, cushion, and flexibility. The airy cushion offered good arch support. Even people with flat feet won’t find them uncomfortable. They were easy to take on/off and had removable insoles that could be replaced with orthopedic inserts.
  • The upper material came with inner stripes, which made them look great. They seemed perfect for walking or casual outings with friends. Even the least expensive color option felt very premium.
  • Surprisingly, these pairs survived weeks worth of intense gym sessions. Those who are in the 300+ pounds club will know how easily shoes wear out. But the Charged Assert 8 stood out very well to  the challenge.
  • Walking in them even after a long day’s work made the hikes feel like strolls on the clouds. People trying to lose weight can walk miles in these on hard pavements or treadmills and still be comfortable.
  • People suffering from plantar fasciitis can walk in these pairs comfortably without triggering the pain. We noticed a bouncing effect on the underfoot when running. This motion will help in decreasing joint pain.
  • The Charged Assert 8 came with high-quality stitching, sturdy structure, and great durability. The soles had patterned grooves that provided a solid grip.

What We Didn’t Like

  • They were a bit stiff and tight right off the box. We needed an hour-long runing session before they broke-in.

What Could Be Improved

  • The break-in period should be shorter.
  • Arch support could be better.

Our Recommendations

  • Wear the shoes inside the house to break-in before putting them to work.

Specifications

  • Dimensions: 12.99 x 8.46 x 4.8 inches
  • Weight: 9.9 oz
  • Material: Textile, Leather
  • Sole: Synthetic sole
  • Available For: Men
  • Available Styles: 25

Pros

  • Comfortable
  • Durable
  • Stylish
  • Breathable
  • True to size
  • Adequate cushioning
  • Sufficient toe room

Cons

  •  Extended break-in period

Advantages of Wearing the Right Shoes for Standing on Concrete All Day

1. To comfort your feet

Comfortable shoes don’t make the feet sore even when sanding on a hard surface for a long time. They give plenty of arch support that helps with the body’s alignment. Uncomfortable feet can upset the whole body and distract you from the task at hand while happy feet let you be more active.

2. To protect your feet

The feet go through hell every day to keep the body stable, carry its weight and keep you moving. It is important to protect them by wearing the correct footwear. Modern shoes provide excellent protection without causing discomfort. It is standard in many workplaces to wear protective footwear in the service or manufacturing industry. Standing all day on concrete or any hard surface with inappropriate shoes can take a huge toll on your feet.

3. To avoid permanent damage to your bones and feet 

Nearly 85% of people are affected by foot-related problems and inappropriate footwear can cause a lot of these. A protective pair cushion the feet from physical damage that can cause permanent injury. Standing on concrete can create health issues that may turn ugly if ignored. It can cause permanent joint damage, swelling of the legs, chronic pain, bunions, low back pain, stiffness in shoulders and neck, or other orthopedic conditions.

What Types of Activities Require People to Stand on Concrete All Day

Researchers have put forward ample evidence to prove that prolonged standing is associated with numerous health problems. People in the service industry all over the world spend over ¾ of the workday on the feet. Individuals working as guards, factory workers, concrete mixers, construction workers, and many other occupations require to be up on the feet for long hours.

Standing over five hours a day could result in an entire stream of health issues and hard concrete surfaces are the worst possible to be on. The body requires significant muscle support to maintain an upright position. The loaded muscles get a limited blood supply that causes pain in the legs, and even the neck and back. Prolonged standing causes blood to pool in the legs resulting in inflamed veins.

Wearing supportive and comfortable shoes, custom orthotics, taking short walks, stretching, or changing the body’s posture to move the weight around can help with the dilemma.

What Types of Foot Injuries Could be Caused by Standing on Concrete for Long Hours

Plantar fasciitis causes sharp pain in the bottom of the heels. This is a common orthopedic complaint and reason for heel pain. The first steps after awakening are the most painful but often subsides with more movement. However, the pain returns after prolonged standing.

Ligaments connecting the heels to the front of the feet support the arches and act as shock absorbers. Pressure from standing all day can cause tears in the ligaments and make them inflamed causing pain. Obese people, long-distance runners, structural issues, standing on feet for long hours or injuries can cause plantar fasciitis.

Standing all day on inflexible concrete is tough on the body and leads to swollen legs, sore feet, and even stiff back or neck. If left unattended it may also cause long-term joint damage, Achilles tendonitis, arthritis in hips and knee, bunions, flat feet, chronic pain, varicose vein, or other orthopedic condition. Poor circulation to the feet from standing all day can be associated with heart complications and high blood pressure.

Shoe Buying Guide: What to Expect

best shoes for standing on concrete all day

  • Size and Width

This factor is directly related to comfort and is responsible for evenly distributing the pressure over the feet. Pairs with good arch support can even reduce existing foot pain and keep your feet in good alignment. The ligaments and tendons get stressed and develop plantar fascia. Good arch support relaxes the muscles and helps prevent long-lasting damages.

  •  Comfort

Comfortable shoes keep the feet happy and give you a more productive day. They also help with back pain and prevent foot injuries. The pair has to ensure comfort throughout the long hours of standing. Look for is a hospitable fit with a generous toe box room and good arch support. Flexible lightweight shoes also give your feet a pleasant time.

  •  Arch Support

This factor is directly related to comfort and is responsible for evenly distributing the pressure over the feet. Pairs with good arch support can even reduce existing foot pain and keep your feet in good alignment. The ligaments and tendons get stressed and develop plantar fascia. Good arch support relaxes the muscles and helps prevent long-lasting damages.

  •  Cushioning

This is a key feature to look out for if you have to stand on your feet all day as it relieves the strain off your feet. Well-padded inserts, EVA midsoles, or memory foam cushioning give a comfortable resting surface for your feet. Using gel inserts make your feet feel fresh and cool.

  •  Durability

Pairs used for standing wear out faster than one’s dedicated to walking. Tough shoes made with high-quality durable material on the outsole protect the feet from impact. Standing in one position all day exerts all your weight only in certain parts of the shoes and wears the soles out unevenly. A well-constructed pair protects your feet from physical damage.

  • Flexible Uppers

Mesh or breathable lightweight synthetic material uppers keep the feet sweat-free and dry also helps with fatigue. Stiff footwear can lead to bad posture while flexibility provides adequate arch support, decreases hot spots in the shoe, and ensures comfort.

  •  Insoles

Choose footwear with insoles that are designed to maintain your foot alignment, an ideal posture of the body, and provide quality protection. They need comfy cushioning that acts as a buffer between your fragile feet and hard concrete floor. Orthopedic inserts can be added easily if the shoes come with a removable insole.

  •  Outsoles

They should be tough to handle the different surfaces. Slip-resistant outsoles keep you vertical over wet slippery surfaces. Make sure they are made of a material that is equipped with a good grip tread and has shock-absorbing property. To distribute your weight evenly the outsoles must always maintain full contact with the ground.

  • Lightweight

Standing all day drains the life out of your feet with each walking step feeling like a mile. High-quality lightweight shoes spare your feet the pain of lugging dead weights around and provide ample protection.

  •  Breathability

Shoes that confine heat and moisture from the body can be unbearable. Don’t let heat and sweat build up in your feet.

Standing upright all day exhausts the feet and getting a pair with sufficient ventilation keeps the sweats at bay. Shoes built with materials that allow free air circulation also keep the feet cool in hot weather.

  • Protection

Modern footwear provides sufficient protection from the mishaps and mayhem of the concrete jungle without causing discomfort to the feet. Quality outsoles prevent punctures when stepped on sharp pointy objects, safeguarding the feet. Shock-resistant upper shields from falling objects and padded insoles certify comfort.

Tips to Wear Shoes on Concrete All Day

Standing on concrete is tough on your feet due to its inflexibility and can often result in sore feet, back and knee pain, and swollen feet. Repeating it every day without appropriate protection leads to permanent or long-term damage. Choosing a quality pair is a must, especially with hard concrete underneath your feet.

  • Make sure you get the size that fits perfectly
  • Get padded cushioning for a resting ground that reduces fatigue of your feet
  • Choose shoes made from material that is lightweight yet protective
  • Avoid footgear with no breathability. They trap heat and sweat and make the feet smell bad
  • Get shoes that offer good arch support as it is responsible for foot alignment and evenly distributing the weight of the body. Don’t go for a pair with flat arches
  •  Pick ones that are slip-resistant and have shock-absorbing capability
  •  Look for durable materials when buying shoes

FAQs

1. Are memory foam shoes good for standing all day?

Ans. Memory foam shoes are an excellent solution to people with foot problems as they provide good arch support that assists your underfoot. They relieve the constraint on the feet from standing all day and absorb the shock and impact of each step when you are walking.

2. Are running shoes good for walking on concrete?

Ans. Running shoes that come with lots of cushioning and extra support can be used on concrete.

3. Can I wear running shoes in the office?

Ans. You can easily fit the running pair in your costume and look both professional and polished. It is okay to wear athletic footwear in a business casual office with no strict dress codes.

About the author

Benedikt Meyers

Benedikt Meyers is an accomplished executive with significant experience in global sales and marketing, product development, and supply chain for the apparel and footwear industries. He’s a skilled relationship builder who has lived in Asia for 10 years and visited the world to develop key alliances with industry partners in order to meet production and supply demands in ever-evolving markets.

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