The hospitality industry can be brutal on your feet, especially if you’re a bartender. While it is considered the backbone of American society, bartending can take its toll on your back if you’re not careful. That’s mainly because, as a bartender, you’re required to be on your feet for long hours.
Bartending also requires a good bit of multi-tasking, so the chances are, apart from pouring those martinis and Moscow Mules, bartenders are also required to operate the cash register, arrange bottles and glasses at the bar, refill the fridges, clean glasses and bar equipment, and these are only the things you’ll be doing on your feet.
Contrary to popular belief, bartending is not all fun and partying; it’s a lot of work, and your feet are on the frontlines, bearing the weight of your body on hard flooring for hours at a time. When you’re doing such a physically demanding job, the shoes you wear can make a big difference. Keeping that in mind, this article is going to be all about the best shoes for bartending.
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The Importance of Good Bartending Shoes
Long shifts behind the bar require a lot of focus and mobility. It also requires you to wear shoes that provide your feet with the comfort and support needed to complete your shift without painful and sore feet. The good news is that you can avoid that discomfort by simply getting yourself a solid pair of bartending shoes. These shoes have been specifically designed for professionals who work in the service industry and are constantly on their feet.
With so many options available online, it can be hard to find the right shoes for normal situations, let alone shoes for a profession such as bartending. But, the good news is that many brands offer durable and comfortable shoes for those who are always on their feet. While, back in the day, bartending was primarily a male profession, you can easily find bartending shoes that are made for both men and women.
But, before you search online for the best shoes for bartending, you’ll have to do your homework to know more about the best features of these shoes. The information you’re going to find here will help you make a more informed decision when it’s time to choose shoes for bartending.
Important Factors to Consider
Finding the perfect shoes for bartending can be a tough task, especially if you don’t know exactly what you’re looking for. Similar to choosing shoes for hiking or jogging, choosing shoes specifically for bartending is an art. You need to know the different parts and features of the shoes and how they can help protect your feet and keep you comfortable while you’re bartending.
Making the right choice of bartending shoes is extremely important since your choice can mean the difference between having a blast at work and going home in pain each and every day.
Also, if you don’t select the right shoes the first time around, you’ll end up spending money on a sub-par product that does not offer your feet protection or comfort while bartending.
The worst-case scenario is selecting the wrong bartending shoes. Wearing the wrong shoes will result in pain and discomfort that can turn into long-term back and feet issues.
The best bartenders in the world know just how important it is to choose the right shoes for bartending. If you’re scoping the market for the best shoes for bartending, then you’ve come to the right place. The following information is going to help you to make a more informed decision when it comes to selecting the right pair of shoes for bartending.
Size
The most important factor that you need to consider when choosing shoes for bartending is obviously going to be the size. While buying shoes online can be a great alternative to visiting traditional brick-and-mortar shoe stores, the downside is that there’s no way to ensure that you’ll get the right-sized shoes delivered to your doorstep.
Another factor to consider when it comes to the size of the shoe is that many footwear manufacturers tend to make shoes that are slightly bigger when compared to regular shoe sizes. This is one of the reasons why, even when people order shoes that match their size, they get shoes that are slightly larger. This can be a big problem since it takes days for your order to be processed and arrive at your front door and even longer if you need to replace the shoes.
The good news is that there’s an easy fix to this, and that’s to check the website of the manufacturer whose shoes you’re interested in buying. Go through their sizing options and customer reviews to find the right-sized shoe.
More often than not, manufacturers will mention that their shoe size is slightly larger when compared to the standard shoe size, which can tell you that you need to choose a smaller size. But, if you want your exact size, then you should have no trouble finding it since there are many options available online. To avoid further size problems, you can also measure your feet yourself and use free online shoe size converters, or get your shoe size measured by a professional.
Comfort
Comfort is another factor that should be at the top of your list when you’re looking to get shoes for bartending. While most people think that getting the right shoe size automatically translates to more comfort, that is not always the case, especially when it comes to shoes that have been designed for those who are always on their feet.
These shoes can vary in features that can either make or break the comfortable fit that you’re looking for. To stay safe, it’s always best to go with shoes that have been designed for comfort and pain relief, which are two of the most important qualities in any shoe.
Shoes from big-name brands tend to not only be designed well but also have all of the additional features that contribute to foot comfort and pain relief.
The more features the shoe has, the better it will be at minimizing the chances of sores, pain, and other issues that bartenders face when they choose shoes with the wrong features or low-quality shoes.
So, it goes without saying that the bartending shoes you get should offer unmatched comfort so that you can be on your feet all day without having to deal with any soreness or pain. At the same time, the shoes that you choose for bartending also need to provide you with relief from any soreness or pain, such as the discomfort caused by plantar fasciitis. If you have flat feet or a condition such as plantar fasciitis, you will need to see a podiatrist first who will advise you on the type of shoes you should be wearing. Many footwear manufacturers design shoes that come with a removable insole so that you can insert a special medicated insole for your foot condition.
It is also important to note that different areas of the shoe will contribute to the overall comfort you feel while standing or walking in the shoes. For instance, the insole and the bottom half of the shoe will play a crucial role in your comfort. This is mainly because the soles of your shoes are going to be in direct contact with the ground. To get the most comfort out of your shoes, you will need to get shoes that offer the most cushioning for your feet. This means that the insole, midsole, and outsole should be thick enough to absorb shock while you walk and provide cushioning for your feet while you’re standing behind the bar.
Apart from the padded insole and midsole that provide cushioning for your feet, your shoes also need to be made of breathable materials to keep your feet dry and moisture-free. This will also contribute to the overall comfort level of the shoes. And lastly, to ensure comfort, you will need shoes whose tightness can be adjusted.
Stability
Needless to say, as a bartender, you’re going to be standing and walking around a lot all day. You’ll constantly be moving from one side of the bar to the other to make and serve drinks. Not to mention carrying out other tasks that bartenders are required to do. All that walking around will be difficult if you’re wearing shoes that do not provide you with the right amount of stability and grip on the floor.
There are footwear manufacturers who design shoes that are specifically made for professionals who need footwear that gives them more stability and grip on the surfaces they walk on. Also, the shoes that you wear should not hinder your movement or require you to make more of an effort to move around the bar. If they do, it will only result in more strain being put on your feet, which means that you’ll have a greater risk of getting injured.
When it comes to the stability of the shoes, while leather can look stylish, the material has a tendency to grow rigid with time, which can make it harder to walk around freely in leather shoes. This is the reason why leather shoes should be the last choice for those who are looking for the best shoes for bartending.
A better option for stability would be shoes that are made with mesh, which is the same material that walking and running shoes are made of. The reason for this is shoes made from a combination of mesh, and other materials are far more flexible and breathable as compared to leather shoes.
Slip-Resistant Design
Safety is another important factor to focus on when considering shoes for bartending. As a bartender, you’ll have to deal with slippery surfaces and spilled beverages that can increase the chances of slipping and falling while on the job.
To make sure you’re able to stay clear of such workplace hazards, it is important to find the right pair of shoes for bartending. The best shoes will provide you with the right level of stability and grip so that you can walk on wet or slippery surfaces without falling and hurting yourself. The good news is that many footwear manufacturers make anti-slip and slip-resistant features a major part of their shoe’s design.
An increasing number of shoe manufacturers are introducing unique tread patterns for their outsoles that provide better grip and traction. Shoes that have better traction can help keep you on your feet and ensure that you don’t slip and stumble while walking on a slippery floor. The best bartending shoes that are available in the market today all feature an anti-slip bottom.
Shoe Style
A shoe’s style and appearance may be subjective, but it is possible to find shoes for bartending that are both comfortable and stylish. That said, comfort trumps style when it comes to buying footwear for bartending – for obvious reasons. If you have to spend hours on your feet in painful shoes, how the shoes look isn’t going to matter much. While there are plenty of eye-catching shoe options available online, it’s best to get shoes that strike the right balance between style and functionality.
Since big-name brands have been designing shoes for a while, they usually offer options that are great to look at, while keeping your feet protected at the same time. Whether you go with a lace-up or slip-on design when choosing shoes for bartending, you are sure to find many shoe options from the more established brands in the footwear niche that offer you style and comfort.
Read Also: Best 8-inch Work Boots
Materials
The materials that shoes are made from play a significant role in the overall comfort of the shoes. Besides that, the type and quality of the materials used in the shoe’s design are what determine both the durability and the longevity of the shoes. Some of the most common materials that are used when it comes to shoes for bartending are leather, mesh, or a combination of various materials.
Both leather and faux leather are popular options and are considered to be durable and long-lasting while also providing the user with a high level of comfort and style. Leather shoes also tend to be more expensive as compared to shoes that are made with other materials. One of the main features of leather shoes is that they are naturally water-resistant, which is a feature that many bartenders look for when they’re searching for the best bartending shoes.
Rubber is another popular option when it comes to bartending shoes. In fact, rubber can be found in shoes that have been specifically designed for most vocations, especially in the foodservice and medical industry. Since rubber is an inexpensive option as compared to leather, and offers a high level of comfort and water resistance, these shoes are normally the preferred choice of bartenders who are looking for sturdy and affordable footwear.
Mesh is a common material that is used in athletic footwear. The reason behind this is that shoes that have a mesh upper offer better comfort and breathability as compared to both rubber or leather shoes.
Breathability plays a big factor when it comes to shoes for bartending since the mesh circulates air in the shoe, preventing a buildup of moisture, which oftentimes is the cause of blisters and sores, along with smelly feet. If you’re wearing shoes that are not made of leather, then there’s a good chance the shoes are made with rubber or mesh or a combination of the two materials.
Durability
Another important factor to consider when choosing shoes for bartending is durability. Since you’re going to be wearing the shoes every day and will probably be on your feet for most of the day, the shoes you get need to be durable and should not crumble as a result of the wear and tear of everyday use too soon. While you can’t expect the shoes you get for bartending to last forever, the shoes should at least last you a few years before they need to be replaced.
The best way to find out if the shoes you choose for bartending are durable is to visit the manufacturer’s website and read online reviews of the shoes. The quality of the materials that are used in the manufacturing process is another good indicator of the sturdiness and durability of the shoes you’re about to get.
Since you can expect to spend hours in those shoes, standing, walking, and bending, you should always pick shoes from reputable brands to get the best quality shoes. Established footwear brands tend to use the best materials during the manufacturing process, which increases the longevity of the shoes. If possible, try on the shoes first before you make a decision.
When it comes to durability, the shoes need to withstand the wear and tear of the bartending profession and still last for a long time. Since you can also expect to have spills and come in contact with harsh elements, the materials that the shoes are made of the need to be of high-quality, which is only possible if you choose to bartend shoes made by premium brands (or the ones mentioned here).
Water-Resistant
One of the duties of a bartender is having to clean up after drunk customers. This often means that you have no choice but to walk through puddles of spilled alcohol. Since there’s no way that you can avoid coming in contact with spilled beverages, the only way to keep your feet dry and safe is by wearing water-resistant shoes.
There can be nothing worse than having to walk with damp socks, which can be incredibly uncomfortable. Not to mention, walking around with wet feet can also lead to sores, blisters, and fungal infections. All of this can be avoided if you wear water-resistant shoes while on the job.
Weight
When buying shoes for bartending, one of the most important factors to consider is the weight of the shoe itself. As a bartender, you’re going to be on your feet at all times, and walking around in heavy shoes will not only be a chore but will also result in a lot of pain and discomfort. Just think about what it would feel like to have weights tied around your ankles. That’s the level of discomfort that you’ll have to deal with.
Contrary to popular belief, durable shoes do not always have to be as heavy as hiking shoes. With the many shoe options that are available online, it’s possible to get high-quality bartending shoes that are not only great to look at but are also lightweight and comfortable.
Even if your duties as a bartender require you to carry out more physical tasks, you should always choose shoes that do not weigh you down while you’re on the job. Since you’re not going to be hiking through the woods to get to your job, it’s always best to go with bartending shoes that are lightweight so that they don’t hamper your productivity as a bartender.
Additional Features
If you’re looking online for bartending shoes, one of the first things that you’re going to notice is the variety you have at your disposal. It’s important to note that the features included in bartending shoes may vary from one manufacturer to the next. This is why you need to pick the brand that’s offering a premium product with all the features that are necessary for the comfort and protection of your feet while you’re bartending.
Arch Support
When it comes to additional (but necessary) features of bartending shoes, one of the most important additions to a shoe’s design has got to be arch support. This addition is going to be especially important if there’s an issue with the arch of your feet. If you have an arch that’s either too high or too low (fallen), you’re going to need shoes that have arch support. Going through all the options available online will ensure that you get shoes that have the perfect arch support for your feet.
Most shoes usually come with a fair bit of arch support; however, if the arches of your feet are riddled with issues, it’s best to consult a podiatrist who can advise you on the type of shoes you should be wearing at your bartending gig. More importantly, you should not get shoes that will worsen your existing condition.
Cushioning / Padding System
Along with focusing on the right fit, you must also make sure that your bartending shoes feature proper cushioning and padding for your feet. This is going to be another essential feature of any shoes for bartending since the cushioning of the shoes is what will keep your feet comfortable while you’re walking or standing.
On the other hand, investing in a pair of bartending shoes that do not offer enough cushioning in the insole and a padded midsole will only result in pain and discomfort, which will make it impossible for you to work long hours behind the bar. Shoes that have been specifically designed for walking often feature excellent cushioning and padding to keep your feet safe and comfortable even after prolonged hours of use.
All of the aforementioned features will be rendered futile if the fit of your shoes and their cushioning are subpar. Both factors play a vital role in bringing about a suitable pair of bartending shoes, no matter what foot shape you’re sporting. When trying on these shoes, make sure that shoes fit your feet snugly and that they contour them as naturally as possible. Moreover, the shoes should offer great cushioning and padding.
Safety Features
Apart from features such as arch support, padded soles, and cushioned lips, shoes for bartending also need to include certain safety features that offer you added protection for your feet. Even if you’re working at a bar, that doesn’t mean you’re safe from dropped boxes, bottles, crates, and other equipment. Dropping things is commonplace for busy bartenders. When that happens, if you’re wearing shoes that do not have any safety features, you’re in for a world of hurt.
Some shoes have been designed with special safety features that can protect your feet from falling objects. Manufacturers often include safety features such as toe caps, which is a bit of added material that is used in the toe area of the shoe and is designed to withstand bumps and impacts from falling objects. Other safety features include impact-absorbent materials and extra padding that helps safeguard your feet from any danger while on the job.
Read Also: Best Shoes for Waitressing and Chefs Shoes.
Our Top Three Choices for Bartenders
Best Overall Choice: ECCO Men’s New Jersey Slip-On Loafer
Premium Product: Keen Utility Men’s PTC Dress Oxford-M Industrial Shoe
Best Value: Skechers for Work Men’s Cottonwood Elks Slip Resistant Shoe
Best Shoes for Bartending
If you’re looking for the best shoes for bartenders, then you’ve come to the right place. The following is a list of our top picks of the best shoes for bartending.
1. ECCO Men’s New Jersey Slip-On Loafer
The ECCO Men’s New Jersey Slip-On loafer simply oozes quality. Ecco’s high-quality footwear can be attributed to the fact that the manufacturer has their own tanneries, where the leather is treated before being used to make their shoes. ECCO is one of the few footwear brands that promise shoes that are made with 100% pure full-grain leather. Apart from a premium appearance, you also get shoes that offer the best in comfort and design.
The ECCO New Jersey Slip-On loafer boasts a premium quality interior lining and a leather-covered insole that offers just the right amount of cushioning for your feet. Since the brand uses a unique direct injection method in the construction of its polyurethane outsole, you can expect to get unmatched shock absorption with the ECCO New Jersey Slip-On loafer.
The ECCO Slip-On loafers have been uniquely designed to keep your feet comfortable, whether you’re walking or standing behind the bar. One of the standout features of these shoes is a low-stacked heel that gives you better grip and traction when you’re walking on wet or slippery surfaces. Overall, the ECCO New Jersey Slip-On loafer is a great choice if you’re looking for a classic pair of shoes for bartending.
Pros:
- Made with 100% leather
- Full-grain leather upper gives a premium appearance
- Features a low-stacked heel
- Direct-injected PU outsole for better shock absorption
- Elastic-goring side inserts to protect your feet against scratches
Cons:
- Narrow toe area
2. Skechers for Work Men’s Cottonwood Elks Slip Resistant Shoe
Skechers is a household name when it comes to designing high-quality footwear. Through the years, the company has become synonymous with quality, and the Work Men’s Cottonwood Elks Slip Resistant Shoe is no exception. With these shoes, Skechers has introduced many new features that help make bartending a breeze.
The main features of the Skechers Work Men’s Cottonwood Elks shoe are mainly its comfortable design and its slip-resistant feature. The outsoles of these shoes have been certified under ASTM F1677-2005 Mark II testing standards for superior slip resistance on even the most slippery surfaces. This alone makes these shoes a must-have for bartenders since part of the job involves walking on puddles of spilled beverages every day.
Those who spend their time on their feet also do not have to be concerned about their comfort since these Skechers shoes feature some serious memory foam that keeps your feet comfortable even after prolonged hours of use. What’s amazing is that Skechers has managed to include all of these amazing features in a lightweight, leather shoe that comes in a somewhat plain design.
Pros:
- Made with 100% leather
- Features a synthetic sole for more comfort
- Memory foam takes the shape of the contours of your feet
- The thick outsole offers better shock absorption
Cons:
- Durability issues
3. Nunn Bush Men’s Sherman Slip-Resistant Work Shoe Oxford
If you’re looking for an Oxford-style shoe for your job as a bartender, then these Nunn Bush shoes are a great choice for you. While the upper is made of faux leather, it does lend an elegant and classy appearance if that’s the look you’re going for. These shoes come with all of the features that you look for in bartending shoes. Not only are they durable and highly functional, but their added comfort and safety features mean that your feet remain comfortable even after wearing these shoes for hours.
These Nunn Bush shoes sport a dual-comfort footbed, which consists of memory foam for an extra snug fit. The addition of the TrueControl Mark II Slip-Resistant feature means that these shoes are not going to lead to stumbles and slips at the workplace. The soft insole prevents the buildup of moisture while the thick outsole offers excellent shock absorption, making this one of the best options for bartenders out there.
Pros:
- Made with high-quality synthetic material
- Features an EVA layered insole
- Memory foam for added comfort
- Comes with TrueControl Mark II Slip-resistant certification
- Oil and abrasion-resistant
Cons:
- Not breathable enough
4. Skechers for Work Women’s GhenterBronaugh Work Shoe
The Skechers for Work Women’s GhenterBronaugh Work Shoe is a premium quality shoe that offers the user an extremely comfortable fit and unmatched functionality, making it one of the best choices for bartenders who are looking for comfortable, functional shoes. These shoes boast a highly durable mesh fabric upper that is stain resistant and breathable at the same time.
Some of the other features that Skechers have included in these shoes include a durable rubber sole that not only provides you with excellent shock absorption but also has slip-resistant properties. These shoes are also incredibly comfortable thanks to the memory foam insole that adjusts to the contours of your feet. This enables you to get a custom, snug fit every time. Some of the other features of these shoes are removable insoles and a roomy toe box, which makes it easy to wear the shoes for long hours.
Pros:
- Made with 100% mesh fabric
- Removable insoles
- Rubber sole for better shock absorption
- Features a slip-resistant design for better traction
- Lightweight, breathable construction
Cons:
- Not enough arch support
5. Red Wing Men’s Iron Ranger 6” Boot
The Red Wing Men’s Iron Ranger 6” Boot is for those bartenders who are looking for an alternative option to traditional shoes and loafers. The Iron Ranger Boots are made of 100% leather and also include many features that enhance the boot’s comfort and functionality. These boots are a great choice for those who are looking for footwear that provides them with more arch support as compared to regular shoes.
The standout feature of the Red Wing Men’s Iron Ranger Boot has got to be its Nitrile Cork sole, which is the only one of its kind in the market. This alone makes these boots a worthy investment for bartenders. Apart from that, you also get a solid Goodyear welt construction and triple stitched design, which means that these boots have truly been built to last.
The shoes also feature a robust outsole that has been specifically designed to provide better grip while walking on slippery areas. There’s also a steel shank that’s been included in the design along with a double-layer toe cap for extra protection if you accidentally drop something on your feet.
Pros:
- Made with 100% leather
- Features a high-quality nitrile cork sole
- Double-layered leather toe cap
- Taslan lace for a tight fit
- Features arch support and ankle support
Cons:
- Shoes are a bit on the large side
6. Keen Utility Men’s PTC Dress Oxford-M Industrial Shoe
Made from 100% leather, the Keen Utility Men’s PTC Dress Oxford M Industrial Shoe offers excellent value for your money. What sets these shoes apart from the rest is the unique design of these shoes and the number of features that have been included to improve functionality and enhance comfort. These industrial shoes are chock full of many features that any bartender would find beneficial.
These shoes feature a 100% leather upper that is both water-resistant and stain-resistant. They also include a slip-resistant rubber outsole for better grip while walking. Since bartenders normally have to walk on wet and slippery surfaces, this is a great feature to have. The non-slip outsole has passed the ASTM F1677-96 Mark II non-slip testing standards, so you can rest assured that you’re not going to slip and hurt yourself while on the job.
Other features of the Keen Utility Men’s PTC Dress Oxford M Industrial Shoe include a molded polyurethane footbed that is nicely complemented by a memory foam insole for added comfort. Some of the other features that have been included in its design include a removable insole that offers added convenience to the wearer since you can replace the removable insole with a medical insole if required.
Pros:
- Made with 100% premium leather
- Water-resistant and stain-resistant
- Non-marking oil and slip-resistant rubber outsole
- ASTM F1677-96 Mark II non-slip certified
- Molded polyurethane footbed
- Memory foam insole
- Removable insole
Cons:
- Not breathable
7. Feetmat Men’s Tennis Shoes Slip-On Sneakers
Feetmat is a company that has been designing some exceptional slip-on shoes for men, and the Men’s Tennis Shoes Slip-On Sneakers is just another feather in the company’s cap. These shoes offer attractive footwear for bartenders and other professionals who require shoes that are comfy, durable, and less of a hassle to put on or take off.
These shoes offer plenty of features that bartenders will find incredibly attractive – from the breathable mesh vamp to its soft pad collar for an extra comfy fit. You also get cushioned memory foam insoles for added comfort if you plan on wearing these shoes for long hours.
Other features of these shoes include the soft outsole that can easily bend and deform without any hassle, making the shoes incredibly comfortable to walk or stand in. The synthetic material upper is breathable, so you don’t have to bother about the buildup of moisture that can lead to sweaty or smelly feet.
Pros:
- Made with premium quality materials
- Features a high-quality mesh knit upper for better breathability
- Elastic rubber sole for better comfort
- Features a slip-resistant textured outsole for enhanced traction
- Lace-less design for added convenience
Cons:
- Made for narrow feet
8. Merrell Jungle Moc Pro Grip
The Merrell Jungle Moc Pro Grip shoe boasts a clever design that makes it quite unique as far as bartending shoes go. From the shoe’s full-grain leather design to the added features that have been included to enhance comfort and protection, the Moc Pro Grip is one shoe that every bartender would want to have in their wardrobe.
Some of the standout features of the Merrell Jungle Moc Pro Grip shoe include a rugged upper that is able to take quite a beating and pro-grip slip resistance that will keep you on your feet no matter how wet things get behind the bar. You also get a padded collar and flexible goring inserts for a comfy fit.
These shoes also feature a Merrell Air Cushion, which absorbs shock and reduces the amount of friction you feel while walking. Apart from these, the Merrell Jungle Moc Pro Grip features a breathable mesh upper and M-Select treatment that helps remove moisture from inside the shoe. All these features are present to ensure that your feet remain dry and comfortable at all times.
Pros:
- Made with 100% premium leather
- Features a sturdy rubber sole
- Convenient slip-on design
- Padded collar for a comfy fit
- Flexible goring inserts
- Slip-resistant Suregrip outsole
Cons:
- Some might find it a bit narrow
9. New Balance Men’s MA33v1
New Balance is a brand that is no stranger to the cross-trainer niche. The New Balance Men’s MA33v1 is one of their best shoes yet. There are many reasons why you would want to get these shoes for bartending.
The shoes fit well and are extremely comfortable. You also get quite a few features that set these shoes apart from the rest. Some of these features include the slip-resistant outsole that keeps your feet firmly on the ground. There’s also the fresh foam comfort technology that’s been integrated into the design of the shoe, all in an effort to enhance its comfort.
Although these shoes have not been designed to be water-resistant, they still provide a considerable amount of protection when walking on spilled water, but you probably shouldn’t overdo it. These shoes are also one of the most lightweight options available, which makes them a great choice for bartenders who are looking for lightweight, comfortable, and affordable shoes.
Pros:
- Made with premium quality synthetic materials
- Features a rubber sole for better shock absorption
- Slip-resistant shoes
- No-sew overlays for added comfort
- Fresh foam comfort technology
Cons:
- Not waterproof
10. Crocs Men’s and Women’s Bistro Clog
Crocs are the go-to choice for many in the food services industry. Crocs are not only comfortable but offer a hassle-free alternative to the traditional lace-up variety of shoes. The Crocs Men’s and Women’s Bistro Clog has been designed keeping foodservice professionals in mind. The company has used 100% Croslite, which ensures enhanced comfort even after hours of use.
The latest iteration of the Crocs Bistro Clog features a thicker upper design for better protection. The design is also waterproof, so you don’t have to bother about drinks spilling on your shoes during work. The Crocs Bistro Clog promises an excellent fit and grip, which makes it easier to walk on wet or slippery surfaces.
The non-slip design that’s been used in these Crocs meets all ASTM F1677-96 standards. That’s not all; these Crocs are CE Certified and also meet EN ISO 20347:2012, OB, SRC quality standards, so you can rest assured that you’re getting a premium product. The Crocs Bistro Clog is a great option for those who are suffering from foot conditions such as plantar fasciitis, and can ease the pain that comes with being on your feet for too long.
Pros:
- Made with 100% Croslite
- Features a high-quality synthetic sole
- Slip-resistant design
- Features an enclosed toe design
- Contoured footbed for extra comfort
- ASTM F2913-11 CE Certified.
Cons:
- Not a breathable design
Final Thoughts
Bartending is a challenging profession that requires you to be on your feet for long hours. This means that you need all the help you can get. The shoes you choose are going to ultimately decide the comfort level of your feet after a long day’s work. The options available here should give you a good idea of the types of features you need to look for in the best shoes for bartending.
Best Overall Choice
The ECCO Men’s New Jersey Slip-On Loafer is the best overall choice due to the fact that the manufacturers use 100% full-grain leather from their own tannery. These loafers also feature a unique, direct-injection PU outsole for better comfort, durability, and shock absorption.
Best Premium Product
The Skechers for Work Men’s Cottonwood Elks Slip Resistant Shoe comes with ASTM F1677-2005 Mark II certification, which is a great feature to have in bartending shoes. The non-slip design of these shoes makes it easier to walk on wet or slippery surfaces with ease. These shoes also boast other features, such as a memory foam insole and a thick outsole for extra comfort.
Best Value
If you’re looking for a more dress-up version of bartending shoes, then the Keen Utility Men’s PTC Dress Oxford-M Industrial Shoe is just what you are looking for. These shoes have been designed following ASTM F1677-96 Mark II non-slip testing standards, so you can rest assured that you’re getting shoes that offer excellent slip resistance. Other features that make these shoes a smart investment include the 100% leather upper, anti-stain rubber outsole, memory foam insole, a molded PU footbed, and a convenient insole.