The best shoes for laboratory work need to be comfortable, durable, and protective. Laboratory workers are on their feet all day, and they need to be able to move freely without worrying about slipping or injuring themselves.
That said, the best shoes for laboratory work won’t be the same as the best shoes for office work or retail work. Even though you’ll be spending most of your time on your feet in a lab setting, there are certain things you should look for in a shoe that will help you perform better at your job and keep you safe from injuries.
Best Shoes For Laboratory Work
10 Best Work Shoes for Laboratory Work in 2022
Working in a laboratory demands going the “extra” mile to ensure your feet are both protected and comfortable, which can be daunting in a market riddled with subpar footwear.
I mean, laboratory work can be particularly difficult because you’re not only required to stand for long periods of time on your feet, but you’re also at risk of being burned by accidental chemical spills.
This is why I decided to test and review a significant number of laboratory work shoes to compile a solid list of ten options specifically designed for a laboratory worker’s needs.
Let’s get started.
Best Work Shoes for Laboratory Work in 2022
Finding a solid work shoe for laboratory work nowadays can be daunting as the market is filled with cheap stuff.
Yet, after extensive research, I made sure to make up this list of ten work shoes that hit all the boxes to wear for laboratory work:
Crocs Unisex on The Clock Clog Work Shoes for Laboratory Work
New Balance Women’s 626 V2 Work Shoes for Laboratory Work
Hawkwell Women’s Work Shoes for Laboratory Work
Skechers Women’s Eldred Work Shoes for Laboratory Work
Crocs Women’s Neria Pro Ii Clog Work Shoes for Laboratory Work
Dr. Scholl’s Shoes Men’s Cambridge II Work Shoes for Laboratory Work
Skechers Men’s Nampa-Groton Work Shoes for Laboratory Work
Dr. Scholl’s Shoes Men’s Harrington II Work Shoes for Laboratory Work
Crocs Women’s Mercy Work Clog Work Shoes for Laboratory Work
Dr. Scholl’s Shoes Men’s Winder II Work Shoes for Laboratory Work
1. Crocs Unisex on The Clock Clog Work Shoes for Laboratory Work
Features
Material: Rubber
Outsoles: Slip-resistant outsoles to avoid slips
Footbeds: Cushioned footbeds
These Crocs “On The Clock” clog work shoes are my favorite for men and women working in laboratories.
Why?
Well, for once, they’ve got cushioned footbeds, which provide extra support and padding to the bottom of your feet, absorbing impacts and reducing foot fatigue.
Furthermore, their roomy design allows the feet to rest comfortably inside the shoes.
Regarding protection, their slip-resistant outsoles provide superior traction to help prevent slips and falls when walking on surfaces that have been affected by accidental spills.
And while they don’t have the best ventilation, these shoes have a design that completely covers the feet to keep them from coming into contact with potentially hazardous chemicals.
Pros
100% man made
Cushioned footbeds keep the feet supported
They are easy to clean
Relaxed fit
Slip resistant outsoles to avoid slips
Design that covers the feet
Cons
Very little ventilation
Customer Reviews and Scores
There are more than 22,666 reviews on Amazon.com about these work shoes at the time of writing, and they have given them a 4.3 out of 5 rating on average. The reviews of this pair of work shoes are positive overall.
Check Price at Amazon.com
2. New Balance Women’s 626 V2 Work Shoes for Laboratory Work
Features
Material: 100% leather
Outsoles: Slip-resistant outsoles
Footbeds: PU fully cushioned footbeds
I’ve grown to like New Balance work shoes over the last few years because they provide very ergonomic and protective work shoes, especially for female lab workers.
These New Balance 626 v2 work shoes are an excellent example of this as they have PU fully cushioned footbeds that provide additional padding to the base of the feet to prevent sore feet.
Furthermore, they have injection-molded EVA foam midsoles that absorb shocks and protect the feet and joints from this stress.
The shoes have slip-resistant outsoles that reduce the risk of nasty injuries when walking on surfaces where liquids have fallen accidentally, allowing the female lab worker to work confidently.
Finally, the shoes have breathable liners that keep the feet fresh by allowing air to flow freely through the shoes.
Pros
Manufactured with top quality 100% leather
PU fully cushioned footbeds support the feet
Injection-molded EVA foam midsoles provide excellent shock absorption
Phantom breathable liner maximizes breathability and reduces irritation
Slip resistant outsoles
Cons
No cons over here
Customer Reviews and Scores
There are more than 22,322 reviews on Amazon.com about these work shoes at the time of writing, and they have given them a 4.5 out of 5 rating on average. The reviews of this pair of work shoes are positive overall.Check Price at Amazon.com
3. Hawkwell Women’s Work Shoes for Laboratory Work
Features
Material: Full-grain synthetic leather
Outsoles: Slip-resistant outsoles
Footbeds: Memory foam footbeds
With features such as slip-resistant outsoles and stain-resistant leather, these Hawkwell work shoes stand as one of the best options for laboratory work as they are key to avoiding accidental injuries when working at the lab.
Moreover, thanks to their memory foam footbeds, the female lab worker will be able to enjoy her workday as she won’t be dealing with sore feet or foot fatigue.
Some people complain that the shoes are too big, but I think the waterproofing membrane that keeps the feet dry when exposed to outside liquids to be a far more important feature to consider.
Pros
Slip-resistant outsoles allow you to walk confidently on slippery surfaces
Stain-resistant, full-grain synthetic leather uppers that are very easy to clean
Memory foam footbeds fully cushion the feet to prevent foot fatigue
Padded collars that enhance the experience of wearing the boots
Waterproofing membrane maintains the feet dry
Cons
They run a bit big
Customer Reviews and Scores
There are more than 2,672 reviews on Amazon.com about these work shoes at the time of writing, and they have given them a 4.1 out of 5 rating on average. The reviews of this pair of work shoes are positive overall.Check Price at Amazon.com
4. Skechers Women’s Eldred Work Shoes for Laboratory Work
Features
Material: 100% real leather
Outsoles: Slip-resistant outsoles
Footbeds: Memory foam footbeds
Few work shoes have as many comfort and protective features designed specifically for laboratory work as the Skechers Eldred women’s work shoes.
For once, their memory foam footbeds play an essential role in preventing sore feet and lower back pain by cushioning the base of the feet and absorbing the shocks generated when walking on hard surfaces commonly found in laboratories.
They also have mesh fabric linings responsible for wicking moisture and keeping the feet odor-free.
Even though they run a little narrow, they have slip-resistant outsoles, which are essential in a setting where spilled liquids are a common occurrence.
Last but not least, they are made of 100 percent genuine leather, which looks great and completely covers the feet to prevent nasty chemical burns.
Pros
Made with 100% real leather that protects the feet from any lab substances
Memory foam footbeds adapt to the shape of the feet fully cushioning them
Padded collar and tongues make wearing these work shoes really comfortable
Mesh fabric lining keeps the feet fresh at all times
Relaxed fit design
Slip-resistant outsoles that provide excellent traction on wet and oily surfaces commonly found in labs
Electrical hazard resistance
Cons
They run a bit narrow
Customer Reviews and Scores
There are more than 5,592 reviews on Amazon.com about these work shoes at the time of writing, and they have given them a 4.3 out of 5 rating on average. The reviews of this pair of work shoes are positive overall.Check Price at Amazon.com
5. Crocs Women’s Neria Pro Ii Clog Work Shoes for Laboratory Work
Features
Material: Easy to clean rubber
Outsoles: Nonslip outsoles
Footbeds: Cushioned insoles
These Crocs Neria clog work shoes are one of the best women’s lab shoes because of features like cushioned footbeds and roomy fit, which are essential in improving comfort when wearing these shoes.
Furthermore, their nonslip outsoles are critical in providing total confidence when moving around the lab because they prevent slips and falls when walking on wet surfaces.
Furthermore, these Crocs shoes have thick toes, which provide that “extra” layer of protection that female lab workers typically seek to protect their toes from chemical burns.
Finally, they are a little squeaky but features like how easy they are to clean compensate for this.
Pros
Easy to clean with just soap and water
Relaxed and roomy fit
Thick toes to provide protection from spills that might happen at the lab
Nonslip outsoles
Cons
They can be a bit squeaky
Customer Reviews and Scores
There are more than 14,974 reviews on Amazon.com about these work shoes at the time of writing, and they have given them a 4 out of 5 rating on average. The reviews of this pair of work shoes are positive overall.Check Price at Amazon.com
6. Dr. Scholl’s Shoes Men’s Cambridge II Work Shoes for Laboratory Work
Features
Material: 100% leather
Outsoles: Oil and slip-resistant nonmarking outsoles
Footbeds: Memory Foam “Cool Fit” and anti-compression footbeds
With features like memory foam footbeds and padded collars, these Dr. Scholl’s Cambridge II work shoes for male lab workers keep your feet well supported and relaxed during the work day at the lab.
These features work together to keep the feet well cushioned throughout the day, which is critical for avoiding foot fatigue and sore feet.
Furthermore, the shoes have oil and slip-resistant nonmarking outsoles, which are critical for traction in an environment where chemical spills are common.
Finally, the shoes are made entirely of leather, which is crucial because it protects the feet from contact with any outside hazardous substance.
Pros
Manufactured with rugged 100% leather
Oil and slip resistant non marking outsoles provide perfect traction on slippery lab surfaces
Memory Foam “Cool Fit” and anti-compression footbeds with anatomical cushioning that fully support the feet
Padded collars and lace up design for a snug fit
Cons
Made overseas
Customer Reviews and Scores
There are more than 1,192 reviews on Amazon.com about these work shoes at the time of writing, and they have given them a 4.3 out of 5 rating on average. The reviews of this pair of work shoes are positive overall.Check Price at Amazon.com
7. Skechers Men’s Nampa-Groton Work Shoes for Laboratory Work
Features
Material: 100% impermeable synthetic leather
Outsoles: Slip and oil-resistant outsoles
Footbeds: Memory foam footbeds
These Skechers Nampa-Groton men’s work shoes feature 100 percent synthetic leather that protects the feet from chemical spills, as well as memory foam footbeds and a roomier fit that ensures sustained comfort while working in the lab.
Moreover, they have slip-resistant and oil-resistant outsoles to keep lab workers safe when walking on surfaces with accidental spills.
They take a few days to break in, but they are entirely worth it.
Pros
100% impervious synthetic leather
Memory foam footbeds that cushion the feet
Relaxed fit
Slip and oil-resistant outsoles that provide maximum confidence
Electrical hazard resistant
Cons
Take a few days to break in
Customer Reviews and Scores
There are more than 1,418 reviews on Amazon.com about these work shoes at the time of writing, and they have given them a 4.4 out of 5 rating on average. The reviews of this pair of work shoes are positive overall.Check Price at Amazon.com
8. Dr. Scholl’s Shoes Men’s Harrington II Work Shoes for Laboratory Work
Footbeds: Memory Foam Cool Fit anti-compression insoles
If you’re looking for lab work shoes that are both stylish and comfortable, these Dr. Scholl’s Harrington work shoes for male lab workers are an excellent choice.
For once, they have memory foam “Cool Fit” footbeds that support the base of the feet and prevent issues like foot fatigue and sore feet.
Furthermore, their “Dri-lex” lining is breathable enough to wick moisture away from the feet and keep them dry at all times, even in hot and humid conditions.
They are good-looking enough to take to the lab despite their unappealing design. Oh, and they have high rebound midsoles that absorb sufficient shocks to keep the feet and knees comfortable.
Pros
Oil-resistant, slip-resistant Lock Step outsoles provide excellent traction on slippery surfaces
Made with top-quality leather that protects the feet from spills
Lace-up front that provides a comfy and snug fit
Memory Foam Cool Fit anti-compression insoles with anatomical support
Dri-Lex moisture-wicking lining and Aegis Microbe Shield to control smell and sweat
High-rebound shock-absorbing midsoles
Cons
Not the most attractive design
Customer Reviews and Scores
There are more than 5,857 reviews on Amazon.com about these work shoes at the time of writing, and they have given them a 4.4 out of 5 rating on average. The reviews of this pair of work shoes are positive overall.
Check Price at Amazon.com
9. Crocs Women’s Mercy Work Clog Work Shoes for Laboratory Work
Features
Material: Easy-to-clean rubber
Outsoles: Slip-resistant outsoles
Footbeds: Cushioned footbeds
These lab work shoes, with cushioned footbeds, keep the feet comfortable even when walking all day on hard surfaces.
They also come manufactured with an easy-to-clean rubber, which is ideal for laboratory work where accidental spills are common.
Finally, the shoes have heel-hugging backstraps that make these Crocs even more comfortable.
Pros
Easy to clean rubber
Slip-resistant outsoles that provide perfect traction
Heel hugging backstrap for maximum comfort
Cons
No cons over here
Customer Reviews and Scores
There are more than 11,724 reviews on Amazon.com about these work shoes at the time of writing, and they have given them a 4.1 out of 5 rating on average. The reviews of this pair of work shoes are positive overall.Check Price at Amazon.com
10. Dr. Scholl’s Shoes Men’s Winder II Work Shoes for Laboratory Work
Footbeds: Memory Foam Cool Fit and anti-compression footbeds
Yes, yet another recommendation from Dr. Scholl. And believe me, these Winder male work shoes for lab work are worth it too.
Their oil and slip-resistant outsoles give the male lab worker confidence that he will not slip and fall when walking on a surface where liquids have been accidentally spilled.
The shoes cushion the base of the feet thanks to their memory foam footbeds, providing a much better experience when dealing with long work shifts at the lab.
Finally, they have a moisture-wicking lining that keeps the feet fresh and odor-free at all times.
Pros
Manufactured with 100% leather
Oil-resistant, slip-resistant “Lock Step” outsoles for maximum traction
Memory Foam Cool Fit and anti-compression footbeds
Dri-Lex moisture-wicking lining that keeps the feet dry
Cons
They’re a half-size bigger
Customer Reviews and Scores
There are more than 3,159 reviews on Amazon.com about these work shoes at the time of writing, and they have given them a 4.2 out of 5 rating on average. The reviews of this pair of work shoes are positive overall.Check Price at Amazon.com
What Are The Best Women’s Shoes for Laboratory Work Overall?
New Balance Women’s 626 V2 Work Shoes for Laboratory Work
I selected this New Balance 626 V2 women’s work shoes as the best ones for laboratory work as they come with excellent features, such as:
Fully cushioned footbeds that maintain the feet relaxed during the day
Injection-molded EVA foam midsoles that absorb the shocks of walking on hard ´laboratory surfaces
Made with 100% leather uppers that protect the feet from accidental spills
Review
What Are The Best Men’s Shoes for Laboratory Work Overall?
Skechers Men’s Nampa-Groton Work Shoes for Laboratory Work
I believe these Skechers Nampa-Groton work shoes to be perfect for male lab workers as they are made with:
Oil and slip-resistant nonmarking outsoles that provide excellent traction on all surfaces
Footbeds made of memory foam that cushion the feet
Padded collars that improve the comfort experience of wearing the shoes
Choosing proper laboratory work shoes is critical to avoiding bad burns from accidental spills and sore feet from long work shifts on your feet.
This is why I’ve decided to list a few characteristics that I believe are essential when looking for a pair of comfortable and protective lab shoes.
Chemical Resisting Materials
This is a crucial feature in laboratory work shoes frequently overlooked as accidental chemical spills could easily land on your feet, provoking severe injuries.
In this case, a chemical-resistant work shoe could save you the trouble of dealing with severe chemical burns.
Also, if you work in a lab but are not at risk of chemical burns, choose work shoes that fully cover your feet and are not made of canvas, as this material can absorb dangerous fluids.
Slip Resistant Outsoles
Slip-resistant outsoles are another critical feature to look for in your next pair of laboratory work shoes.
This feature is essential because it provides traction when walking on slippery laboratory surfaces that may have been accidentally spilled with chemicals.
So, if you work in a laboratory where spills are common, getting a work shoe with slip-resistant outsoles might be a good idea.
Safety Toe Caps
Anyone who has ever worked in a laboratory is aware of its dangers. Many things can go wrong, from chemical spills to sharp or heavy objects falling.
So, if you want an “extra” layer of protection to keep your toes from being crushed or burned, I’d recommend a work shoe with safety toe caps.
There are numerous options for safety toe caps (steel toe caps, composite toe caps, etc.), and they are all very similar. But it’s worth mentioning that whatever safety toe cap you choose, you should be covered.
Sneaker Design
Working on your feet for 8 to 10 hours daily is a common laboratory work requirement.
This puts a tremendous strain on your feet and joints, potentially leading to short and long-term conditions like bad knees or plantar fasciitis.
To avoid these issues, it is preferable to pick a work shoe that is very comfortable to wear for extended periods of time, which is why I would opt for a work shoe with a sneaker-like design, as it ensures that your feet will be lighter and well cushioned.
Cushioned Footbeds & Shock Absorbing Midsoles
Getting laboratory work shoes with cushioned footbeds and shock-absorbing midsoles is crucial for several reasons.
To begin, they will cushion the base of the feet to keep them relaxed throughout the workday, avoiding foot soreness and fatigue.
Furthermore, they absorb the shocks caused by walking on hard surfaces, which is critical to keeping all joints free of stress and thus avoiding short and long-term injuries.
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