Teaching is not an easy job. With responsibilities that far exceed the traditional 9-5 places of employment, teaching is an occupation that requires patience and total dedication to students who look for answers in a world full of conflict.
Often standing on feet for hours on end, walking long hallways with flights of stairs may result in sore feet every day, teachers need reliable footwear to keep ahead of an energetic group of young adults with lofty ambitions and goals.
Teachers need shoes that can withstand the pressure of constant standing with the adaptation to adjust to ever-changing classroom conditions. Wearing proper footwear will keep you at the head of the class.
Affordable on any salary level, our top choice when it comes to the best shoes for male teachers is the Rockport Men’s Eureka Walking Shoe and Alegria Women’s Paloma Flat for lady teachers. Based on quality, affordability, and long durable wear, these shoes will always take you to the class’s head in style and comfort.
However, that doesn’t mean there isn’t an array of other options to choose from! Let’s dig down below to explore the alternatives.
Best Shoes for Teachers
1. Rockport Eureka Walking Shoe
Rockport Eureka Walking Shoe offers the versatility of a casual walking shoe with the aesthetic appeal of an everyday shoe.
They are providing more comfort without sacrificing overall quality. The removable inner-sole, for more relaxation and flexibility, is a trademark of this well-made shoe.
The wider base for support and stability create a patented walking platform, and the shoe’s EVA insole helps to reduce leg and foot fatigue with a comfort level that makes these shoes a good fit for teachers who remain on their feet for the majority of the day.
What’s more – its moisture-wicking lining will help to keep your feet cool, calm, and collected.
Offering a wider range of features when compared to other similar styles, it is clear why these shoes offer some of the best comfort levels in the footwear industry.
Pros
- Padded tongue and collar;
- Genuine, full-grain uppers;
- Durable rubber outsole;
- Padded inner-sole;
- Lace-up vamp.
Cons
- Sole separation issues;
- Poor overall quality;
- Pinches.
The Rockport shoes are ranked well on Amazon with a better-than-average price point. There are some issues with the overall quality of these shoes compared to the same shoe made 10-15 years ago.
2. Merrell Men’s Encore Gust Slip-On Shoe
Slip into these shoes and experience the comfortable feel of well-made and affordable footwear.
Designed to go anywhere and do anything, Merrell Encore Gust Slip-On “sneaker-appearing” shoes are durable and rugged enough to be worn by top professionals across the globe.
The select grip outsole gives you guaranteed stability on all surfaces with non-slip gripping capabilities.
The Merrell Encore offers the perfect balance of a shoe that is casual in appearance but adds a styling flair that easily fits into any after-work hours social events.
Comprised of 100% full-grain leather, these shoes are long-lasting, with minimal care required.
The excellent heel support with air cushioning absorbs shocks remarkably with uncompromised protection. More features offered on these high-ranking slip-on include but are not limited to:
Pros
- Molded nylon arched shank;
- Mesh lining;
- Blended EVA contoured footbed;
- Odor prevention with Aegis antimicrobial treatment;
- Lightweight, weighing only 1lb.
Cons
- Sizes run large;
- Narrow;
- Lacking arch support.
Sizing appears to be a common issue with the majority of shoes ordered online, so make sure to check the sizing chart carefully before making an order.
The shoes sport a consistently high ranking on Amazon with a price point that is well within limits for a high-quality slip-on shoe.
We recommend Merrell Men’s Encore Gust Slip-On Shoe for male teachers. Lady teacher but can’t see good shoes from Merrell for you? No worries, the next pair from Alegria is a beautiful pick for you.
3. Alegria Women’s Paloma Flat
Styled to precision as comfortable flats for teachers, hospitality, or other occupational fields, these Mary Jane designed shoes remain timeless in overall styling and appearance.
Fun and stylish animal print bring to life these affordable clogs. They sport leather uppers for higher comfort levels and longer durable wear.
The attractive button strap with Velcro closure allows for a wider range of preferred suitable choices.
Removable interlocking footbed comprised of latex, memory foam, and cork provide excellent comfort levels that are not available on competing styles.
The shoe’s mild rocker sole gives proper support where needed with increased stability.
Designed for those who love to set new trends, Alegria Women’s Paloma flat clogs also offer these additional features:
Pros
- Hook-and-loop Mary Jane instep strap;
- Soft leather interior;
- Reduced heel and central metatarsal pressure;
- Removable footbed;
- Superior arch support.
Cons
- Comfort issues;
- Sizes run small;
- May require a break-in period.
The Alegria Women’s Paloma Flat comes with a high rating on Amazon, and a price point that is affordable and respectable, not to mention a fantastic color selection with over twenty different colors to match any desired futuristic trend.
These low-top styled clogs attract attention when worn and are destined to continue to be a favorite for all women who look for both quality and styling.
4. KEEN Women’s Kaci Full-Grain Slip-On Shoe
This updated version of the original Kaci features full-grain leather with a laser imprinted floral design across the strap.
The recycled foam materials provide all-day comfort and support while advocating for the reuse of recycled materials.
These slip-on shoes designed for casual, around-the-house wear (check out more house shoes), and occasionally worn to work.
The oil nubuck-leather uppers give these shoes a rustic, casual appearance. Mesh linings provide for foot comfort with continual air movement.
The removable, metatomical footbed, using only recycled polyurethane, softens each step taken with a noticeable difference in stride.
An ideal comforting shoe for women teachers who must remain on their feet throughout the day, these shoes will also reduce foot discomfort thanks to the following features.
Pros
- Cleansport NXT™ for odor control;
- Elastic gore panel;
- Water-resistant uppers;
- Rubber outsole;
- Lightweight, at only 10.6oz.
Cons
- No arch support;
- Leather footbed replaced by inexpensive material;
- Over-the-top strap not adjustable.
It is maintaining a higher rating on Amazon with a price point that may appear somewhat confusing: vast price range with no clear representation to the significant variation in price ranges.
According to many consumers, updates do not always fix a product that was not broken in the first place.
5. Bostonian Men’s Mendon Dress Slip-On
Stepping into a multi-million-dollar meeting wearing these shoe projects a feeling of confidence and comfort.
Perfect for weddings or social gatherings, these slip on shoes are the ideal complement to any get-up, including teaching.
Simplistic styling without an overbearing appearance, the smooth, clean lines of these shoes are an attribute to expensive suits.
Worn by college professors in prestigious institutions across the country, these slip-on shoes are a symbol of self-pride and have long been considered some of the best shoes on the market for those working in academia.
The smooth, full-grain leather uppers, with a gently tapered toe, keep your feet comfortable throughout the day and well into the evening.
Finished with a lightly padded collar and a flexible cushioned footbed, Bostonian Men’s Mendon Dress Slip-On lightweight shoes absorb shocks with unrivaled traction control on all surfaces, and in all climates.
Designed for comfort and increased wear longevity, features of these highly-crafted shoes include but not limited to:
Pros
- Dual instep panels;
- Lightweight midsoles;
- Steel shank for midfoot support;
- Durable man-made outsole;
- Removable footbed.
Cons
- Waxy uneven finish;
- Narrow width;
- Overall poor quality.
The shoe has the higher-than-average rating on Amazon with an affordable price point. Overall, it is a great versatile shoe offering many wearing options.
6. SKECHERS Bobs Plush – Peace and Love
Leisure lounging around the home feels better when wearing these plush canvas slip-on shoes. Warm and inviting, this at-home leisure slip-on will keep your feet warm and comfortable.
Featuring a quarter-inch heel with an arched pillow insole for support, SKECHERS Bobs Plush – Peace and Love make your long-awaited day off even better.
Classic styling with the stretch slip-on fit, these shoes will serve multiple uses in and around your home. Whether heading to the pool or meeting friends for lunch, you’re as flexible as the shoes you’re walking in.
The memory foam footbed keeps your feet comfortable and dry, with additional traction provided by the rubber outsoles.
Available in twelve aesthetically pleasing colors, other features of these perfect, stay-at-home shoes include:
Pros
- Tucked toe pleated front;
- Fabric upper with fabric lining;
- Tonal stitching;
- Fabric sock liner;
- Leopard textile lining.
Cons
- Poor durability;
- Poor arch support;
- Poor quality.
This shoe’s consistently high rating on Amazon and price point may be hard to beat. The overall quality levels appear to be lacking in these shoes, which comes as a surprise from a manufacturer that has been reputable and trusted for decades.
7. ECCO Men’s Helsinki Slip-On
It looks like tuxedo shoes; the European flair is evident at every angle of these high-quality dresses, slip-on shoes. With extra room in the toe box, this shoe fits narrower from heel to the instep for a more comfortable fit.
It allows the toes to spread; naturally, your body weight is supported in a balanced way when walking or standing all day.
The shoes feature a soft layer of moisture-absorbent foam, treated with AGION, for control, odor, and bacteria growth.
The pumping effect of this unique foam is triggered by each step you take, as the shoes push clean air into minute holes in the lining, creating air circulation in and around your feet, with cooling comfort.
The sturdy leather uppers are emphasized with delicate and precise seaming with twin goring at the tongue for a tighter, more comfortable first-time fit. Other features include:
Pros
- Moisture absorbing sock lining;
- Padded tongue/collar;
- Cushioned inner sole;
- Nylon shank;
- “Instant-fit” technology.
Cons
- Leather does not hold up;
- Stitching failure;
- Small and tight (Ordered wrong size)
Currently highly ranked on Amazon with a price point that is well within reason for shoes of this quality.
It should be noted that the leather on Coca Brown is distressed; therefore, a slight variation of color from one pair to the next may be noticeable.
8. Mary Jane Hot Chocolate Flat
Now, here is a pair of shoes from Mary Jane that is sure to turn a few heads. These multicolored shoes are the latest in styling trends drawing attention to the bold and unusual colors of this fun and funky looking shoes.
With one white shoe and the other black with white accents, the name “Chocolaticas” was an appropriate choice.
With a unique mixture of modern and old-fashioned styles, every print’s colorful and unique designs will be the discovery of another fashion statement.
The adjustable buckle strap is a useful feature that makes these one-of-a-kind shoes functional, fun to wear, and a great fit.
In time, these shoes will be a collector’s item due to the unique styling and appearance. Other features of these high-quality flats include:
Pros
- Cushioned inner sole;
- Unique styling and prints;
- Printed fabric upper, soft fabric inner;
- Vibrant “eye-popping” colors;
- Non-marking rubber sole.
Cons
- Not good for high arches;
- No support;
- Sizes run small.
These shoes have a very high ranking on Amazon with an attractive price point. Affordable and lightweight, these shoes remain a favorite as comfortable flats for teachers who love to express the freedom of individuality.
9. Clarks Men’s Cotrell Step Slip-on Loafer
Dear Teachers, please take note: these are the shoes that you have been waiting for! Designed for those who are required to be on their feet for the majority of the day, these slip-on loafers keep you in style with extreme comfort.
Featuring the latest in technology comfort, Cushion Soft™, your feet will remain comfortable throughout the day and into the evening no matter what your hectic schedule dictates.
The removable Ortholite® footbed soothes your aching feet with total comfort from dawn to dusk. Available in oil brown or oil black leather, these shoes will fit right in to the latest trends at a very affordable price.
They are fashioned with an excellent, rugged outsole with good traction. With a leather upper and bicycle toe with stitching details, these shoes will take you to the final bell in style.
Pros
- Padded collar;
- Fabric lining;
- Durable man-made outsole;
- 1.5-inch heel;
- Wider widths available;
Cons
- Hard inner sole;
- Splitting leather;
- Need additional arch support.
These shoes are praised by customers on Amazon and have maintained a high rating since their release. The price is fair and affordable. They are the perfect shoes for teachers or anyone who is on their feet for long periods.
Be sure not to miss out on this pair of good lightweight shoes that will last beyond the end of the academic year.
10. Bostonian Men’s Ipswich Lace-Up Oxford Shoe
These shoes come from an area where style is always in demand. Combining the performance of an athletic sneaker with styling that never ends, these dress shoes are a clear indication of sophistication at it’s best.
Adding the latest in material interests with patterns that are part of a long heritage, these shoes continually reflect proper attire attitudes.
Lightweight with full-grain uppers, these lace-up dress shoes are worn by professionals who remain concerned about quality and appearance.
The squared toe configuration of these shoes NOT commonly found in many well-made dress shoes. The contrast stitching combined with a smooth appearing leather finish accents the true features. Other features include.
Pros
- Padded collar;
- Removable cushioned footbed;
- Lightweight EVA outsole;
- Shock absorbent;
- 360º of total comfort.
Cons
- Soles wear out after 3-4 months;
- No air circulation, causing the feet to sweat;
- The leather is very thin.
Rating on Amazon remains somewhat lower than expected, although the price point remains firm and in place.
Consumers have remarked about the quality of these shoes in comparison to previous models of the same shoe, and have suggested manufacturer intervention to address these concerns.
These shoes are available in black or brown to complement any business attire.
Things to Consider Before Buying Shoes for Teachers
Style
Style is not often associated with teaching unless you are a teacher in a preppy middle-school. Not too many 4-5-year-old students remain interested in the kind of shoes that their teacher is wearing. In boarding schools or higher-end universities, teachers are required to dress appropriately and often want to look their best for their students.
Girls are more likely to notice the style of shoes that other people in the school are wearing. Setting trends not only in high school but also in universities from coast to coast, some of the latest in footwear styles have been created by college students, who sometimes temporarily leave the academic world to remain in touch with the fashion world.
Comfort
Comfort takes on a new meaning when your teaching position requires you to be on your feet for the majority of the day. From sunrise to sunset and beyond, teachers are continually on the move preparing lessons, that are exciting and challenging. The best teacher shoes are a must, designed to relieve pressure on your feet on any given day.
Combined with the proper support to reduce back pain and bad knees, wearing comfortable shoes is a good lesson for all to remember.
Material
Good shoes must allow your feet to breathe, also keeping them cool and dry. Sweating feet are a breeding ground for bacteria, including athlete’s foot and other associated foot conditions. Depending on weather and climate conditions, shoes designed for cold or wet conditions will require additional protection for your feet vs. shoes are worn in warmer temperatures.
From full-grain leather to the latest in fabric with moisture-weeping design, comfortable feet keep you moving from class to class. From kindergarten to prestigious universities, the best teacher shoes bring you to class, allowing you to educate and turn the children of today into tomorrow’s leaders.
Support
Shoes for standing on your feet all day requires good arch support with shock-absorbing qualities. Teaching is more than standing in front of classes all day. Teaching is a demanding occupation that requires other activities to ensure that your class preparation for the following day provides your students with the latest in current events.
When your shoes do not supply the correct support resulting in aching and tired feet, you may lose focus on the task at hand. Supportive shoes keep your back and spine aligned, and reduce pressure on the ankles and knees, allowing you to become fully prepared and ready to take on all additional challenges.
Weight
Wearing heavy shoes all day only adds to the discomfort of your feet. Standing and walking long hallways in between classes only add additional weight to your feet that you really do not need. Wearing lightweight, comfortable shoes gives you the extra energy needed during long class hours and even longer PTA meetings.
Shoes designed with lightweight materials add that extra “spring” to your step and get you through days that never seem to end. Even after class dismissal, you will still have the energy to meet with family or friends for a night of fun and relaxation when wearing lightweight shoes.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q. What shoes should a teacher wear?
A. Unless there is a specific dress code in place, teachers should wear shoes that offer support yet remain comfortable. Lightweight shoes come in many styles and designs for those who remain on their feet for the majority of the day.
Q. How true to size do the Rockport Men’s Eureka Walking shoes run? Do they tend to run true to size or is a half size up recommended?
A. These shoes run true to size. You might want to consult the sizing guide when ordering online from a retail manufacturer. These sizing guides are a great way to ensure that your new Rockport’s will fit perfectly upon arrival.
Q. Will the Merrell men’s slip-on shoe work in a warehouse environment with concrete floors?
A. Probably. They are really comfortable shoes. There might be a problem depending on the warehouse environment that you are working in though. Warehouse workers are typically required to wear shoes with safety toes (steel) when working around forklifts or any other heavy machinery. Clear it with your supervisor before wearing them to work might be a good idea.
Q. Do the Keen women’s Kaci slip-on shoe have good arch support? I teach all day and my feet are really aching at the end of the day due to my flat feet.
A. That would really depend on the condition of your feet. If you are suffering from plantar fasciitis (flat feet), then you could possibly use an orthopedic insert to relieve some of your discomforts. You might have to order a ½ to the one-full size larger to accommodate for the insert though.
Q. Is there one shoe brand that is better than all the others for teachers?
A. Many good shoes provide comfort for those who must be on their feet all day. In answer to your question, there is probably not one shoe that is better than all others. It really comes down to personal preference and styling choices.
Q. Some colleagues of mine have stated that the Clarks Men’s Cotrell slip-on loafer is the most comfortable shoe they have ever worn. Is this true?
A. These slip-on are extremely comfortable and stylish with supportive features that make wearing these shoes a true pleasure. With breathable leather uppers and ortholite memory foam, these shoes are not only lightweight but allow your feet to breathe, which is a plus.
Conclusion
Teachers take on difficult daily challenges. Education is the root out of which the productive leaders of tomorrow grow.
In this challenging position, brimming with the responsibility of appropriately shaping the minds of eager young learners, teachers must quickly adapt to changing classroom environments, and this often places additional stress on the body, from head to toe.
By remaining in control, wearing one of the 10 best shoes for teachers allows dedicated men and women to remain focused on the task.
Standing on your feet for eight to twelve hours a day can take its toll on you. Sore, aching feet distract educators who need to remain aware of their present duties and responsibilities.
Although comfortable feet may seem unimportant, asking any teacher the importance of wearing comfortable shoes will often bring about a convincing conclusion with one simple reply.
We humbly extend our deepest gratitude and appreciation with a deeper appreciation for those who have dedicated their lives to the education of children.
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