OR team standing around surgery table
out-pacents

Best Shoes to Wear in the OR for Surgery Rotation

Shoes to Try in the Operating Room

Starting your surgery rotation soon? You can expect to have a number of cases where you’re standing for a long period of time. Depending on the surgery, it could be anywhere from thirty minutes of standing to a few hours, and it is important to have good shoes to get you through.

When considering shoes for your surgery rotation the most important thing is comfort. Whatever you currently use for walking or other exercise is a good option, however if you’re worried about getting bodily fluids on your shoes I wouldn’t wear your favorite running shoes. You have the option of wearing shoe covers but even with shoe covers there’s a chance you can get stuff on your shoes.

Not only is the fit important it is also good to get shoes that clean off easily. This typically means something without laces and made of a rubber or plastic material. I worked in general surgery and I would often need to clean my shoes after a case.

I used to think that saving money by spending less on shoes was best, but for shoes that you’re going to be wearing a lot, quality really matters. This does not mean the most expensive item is the best, and if you’re in school and living off student loans paying attention to the price is still important.

Here’s my recommendation for shoes to consider for your surgery rotation.

THIS POST MAY CONTAIN AFFILIATE LINKS, WHICH MEANS WE MAY BE COMPENSATED FOR SOME OF THE PRODUCTS LISTED.  HELP US OUT BY USING THE LINKS. FULL DISCLOSURE.

Klogs – Boca

side profile of klogs footwear bocaWorking in surgery and having very flat feet I went on a mission to find the best shoes for standing for longer periods. What I found is that I liked the shoes that were softer and had more cushion in the foot bed.

The Klogs – Boca are a great shoe. They feel great and have a very nice slip resistant bottom. They clean off easily if you happen to get any bodily fluids on them, and you don’t have to break the bank to purchase them.

The only thing I don’t like about them is that they are a taller shoe and they feel like you’re walking on a block, but other shoes such as Dansko have a similar feel to them.

[jetpack_subscription_form title=”Don’t miss out on future tips for PA school” subscribe_text=”Enter your email address to receive future posts by email for FREE” subscribe_button=”Sign Me Up”]

Dansko – Pro

The classic and probably most popular shoes for Dansko Pro in blackteachers and hospital workers is Dansko. I’ve tried these and due to the height of the heel they feel a little bit like you’re walking on a block. Also, the foot bed is more firm than what I like. They say the longer you wear them the more they soften up, but even after they are broken in they still feel a little firm to me.

Also, they are on the expensive side. Not that you want to go cheap on something that can affect your health, but if there are other options that are less expensive, it might be worth exploring what else is out there.

Crocs – On the Clock

crocsThe staple for grandma’s who like to garden, Crocs has come a long ways. This is another very soft and comfortable shoe that cleans up well. The comfort compares to the Klogs but to me the construction feels a little flimsy.

The one nice thing about this shoe is that it is a very affordable shoe and the least expensive on the list. As mentioned above with the Dansko you can’t really put a price on the health of your feet, as well as leg and back pain from standing for long periods.

New Balance – mw577

new balance shoeThe good old sneaker is always a great option for the OR. I like it in black as you can’t see stains on them as well, but I had a supervising physician who wore them in white as he did like the fact he could see if anything needed to be cleaned off.

The one difference compared to the shoes above is that these have laces, which for some means a better, tighter fit. However, cleaning the cotton material can be difficult.

They might not be the most fashionable shoe, but as far as comfort in the operating room they get the job done.

Operating Room Shoe Summary

When looking at shoes for the OR, ER or other rotations look for something that is going to be comfortable to stand in for long periods of time. Also, keep in mind how easy it is to clean them as you might be getting bodily fluids on them. Lastly, when it comes to a good shoe the price is not the most important; as being comfortable standing for long hours and being pain free is worth the few extra bucks you might spend on a good shoe.

If you’re shoe shopping its always best to try them on before you commit. Online shopping is great and if you use a site like Zappos you can get free shipping BOTH ways on shoes, clothing, and more! They have great customer service with 365-day return policy, over 1000 brands and 24/7 friendly customer service.

Do you have a favorite shoe for standing for longer periods or other recommendations? Please comment below the original post, sign up to receive future posts by email and share with your friends!