November 01, 2024
When looking for your ideal office work shoes, there's usually no 'one-size-fits-all' answer. The best everyday office shoes for you might differ based on where you work, your office dress code and your personal style. However, when you're at work for eight hours a day or more, comfort and support can never be overstated.
Read our top tips for what shoes to wear to work and the office, including those for active jobs that literally keep you on your toes. From the best formal shoes, casual office shoes and safety footwear, we've got it covered.
Whether or not you work in an office environment, comfortable shoes are important wherever you work. Unless you work from home, in which case a good pair of slippers or crocs are the obvious winners.
The best everyday office and work shoes are often super functional and comfortable without surrendering your sense of style.
Here are a few things to consider:
Whether you're on your feet or at a desk (or a combination of the two), having good shoes for work is essential for everyday comfort. There's nothing like a great pair of durable, long-wearing shoes to carry you through the week.
So, save yourself the foot ache and choose the right shoes for your work lifestyle.
The ideal office shoes for work can vary depending on the company you work for, their dress code and your role. For example, if you're public or client-facing, you might be expected to dress a certain way, such as wearing smart footwear. The shoes you wear may also depend on how much time you spend on your feet.
If your company dress code calls for professional attire or business formal style-shoes, you can't go wrong with neutral colours. Black, tan, white and nude look clean and smart - plus, they're incredibly versatile. Some of the best formal shoes for work include:
Heels are a classic choice for formal business attire but, if you prefer your shoes closer to the ground, loafers can look just as great. This pair of black patent loafers by Lilley have a supportive outsole and padded insole for your comfort.
These black Basil lace up shoes from Beckett are a reliable choice for formal men's footwear, featuring a low sole and traditional stitching. You can't go wrong!
Smart or business casual is typically more flexible than business formal. Depending on your workplace, as long as your shoes are clean and neutral in colour, you may be able to wear chunky Chelsea styles and men's boots, among others.
Great options for business casual shoes include:
Classic lace up boots can make for some of the best black office shoes if you want to keep to a neutral colour scheme. This pair of Maude ankle boots by Lilley look great styled with jeans or a skirt.
A timeless edition to anyone's wardrobe, Chelsea boots are great shoes for pairing with chinos, jeans or smart trousers. This pair of black Chelsea boots from Beckett are an ideal option for men's business casual shoes.
It's no surprise that the easiest office shoes to buy are for casual dress codes. If you work somewhere with a laid-back approach to work attire, some stylish trainers or low shoes might do the trick.
However, even if you don't have a very strict dress policy at work, it's still important to get the right foot support for your lifestyle.
Casual office shoes could include:
Learn how to clean white trainers with our guide.
Simple, retro, reliable. Canvas pumps make for some of the best everyday office shoes. These black canvas shoes from Red Fish feature a chunky, low platform sole as a subtle statement.
Available in various colours, these Neptune lace up trainers from Osaga feature a knitted upper for comfort and breathability. The memory foam insole can offer great support for commuting to work, too.
When your job requires you to be on your feet all day, you'll need a pair of shoes that put as much work in as you do. For instance, if you're a hospitality, retail or healthcare worker, you'll know what a difference sensible shoes can make to your everyday comfort.
We recommend looking for shoes with good arch support and shock absorption.
These could include:
Working in a hospital is rewarding but tiring - especially for your feet, as you're on the move all day. Thankfully, there's a wide selection of shoes that can make your working day a little easier.
Working in retail often means being on your feet at the till or on the shop floor for hours. Avoid feeling like your feet are going to drop off at the end of the day by wearing sturdy shoes with thick outsoles.
Working in a restaurant or kitchen means you're always on the go. Whether you're making food or serving it, supportive shoes are essential.
Working in a warehouse, you might be exposed to various hazards such as heavy or falling objects. Wearing safety footwear in practical working environments is imperative for protecting your feet.
Learn more about the best safety boots and shoes with our guide.
Whatever your daily grind, make sure your feet look and feel great with the right pair of office or work shoes for you. Read more shoe and style advice on our shoezone blog, from the best heels for all occasions to the best footwear for walking.
Check out the shoezone blog for more style tips and footwear suggestions for every occasion.