Skip to Content

10 Best Shoes for Restaurant Managers [Pros and Cons]

Are you a restaurant manager and you are looking to buy some pair of shoes? If YES, here are 10 best affordable shoes for restaurant managers.

When you are the manager of a restaurant, there is nothing as important as having the right shoes that are the perfect balance for your profession. Note that you will have to understand the practical features that are needed in your environment to make the right shoe choice.

Restaurant managers wear their shoes all through the day but they sometimes fail to look out for the right features while buying a model. Note that the overall performance of the shoes and its durability are what really matters to a large extent and these factors need to be balanced with the budget that you have in mind.

There are so many choices in the market and choosing the right option can get quite confusing, especially when you consider the varying options and features of each shoe.

As a restaurant manager, you should know what you are shopping for when deciding on the perfect shoes to go with your team’s uniform. But the ideal shoe does more than complete a look; it should offer so much benefit than just fashion.

Being a restaurant manager, you are expected to always be on the move for long periods, and the proper footwear provides arch support, protects against blisters, and reduces pressure on your foot. And since food industry workers are more prone to injury than employees in other industries, you need shoes with a proper grip.

Quality work shoes will protect your feet from heavy boxes, large objects, and hot liquids. Also buying good quality shoes will save you money on medical bills you may incur as a result of injury. Durable shoes also reduce the total cost of ownership of the shoes over the long term.

Best Shoes for Restaurant Manager

1. Dansko XP Clogs

This shoe is without doubt one of the well-known shoe brands among people who work on their feet all day long. Experts have tried, verified, and also specifically recommend Dansko’s XP Clogs. They’re slip-resistant, have great arch support, and are cushioned for added comfort and protection.

2. Scholl’s Work Line

This brand is well-known for comfort and support, and they offer a line of clogs, sneakers, and slip-on shoes designed for people on their feet all day. The Dr. Scholl’s Work line features a slip – and oil – resistant outsole, plus memory foam inserts and breathable materials for all-day comfort.

3. Vans “Made for Makers”

Vans has made a restaurant shoe that looks just like their classic low-top and high-top skateboard sneaker with added water resistance, support, and slip-proofing.

4. Snibbs

Snibbs for a very long time has positioned themselves as “The last work show you will ever need.” Designed by an orthopaedic surgeon, Snibbs feature top – of – the – line Ortholite® insoles, soles that are slip-resistant to both liquids and oils, breathable, and supportive. They also offer a 30 – day trial period, so you can return them for a full refund if they don’t work for you.

5. New Balance 510v3

According to experts, these restaurant shoes speak volume for their even support, non-skid treads, breathability, and lightweight design. One downside, however, is that they won’t protect against spills.

6. Sanita Clogs

Just like the Dansko clogs, Sanita’s are becoming more and more popular in the restaurant industry. Judging from reviews on Amazon and the company’s website, many have relieved back, foot, and knee pain while wearing these clogs.

7. Clove

Even though a newer brand, Clove sneakers are designed with healthcare professionals in mind but are also perfect as restaurant shoes. These shoes feature “liquid – repellent and stain – resistant Clarino™ fabric [and] odour – fighting, machine washable insoles from Ortholite®” according to the Clove website.

8. Dickies Apex

Dickies Apex non-slip restaurant shoes have a MICHELIN®WCX channelled shoe tread that provides traction with a self-cleaning design that evacuates liquid and debris.

9. Birkenstock Professional Slip Resistant Work Shoe

Note that these simple clogs are slip-resistant and made of one moulded piece of lightweight polyurethane, making them both durable and water-resistant as well.

10. Croc Bistro Clogs

The Croc Bistro Clogs are more or less the same as classic Crocs minus the holes on top, so on top of being lightweight, slip-resistant, easy to clean, and supportive, they also keep your feet safe from spills.

4 Factors to Consider When Buying Shoes as a Restaurant Manager

There are some critical points you need to have in mind while buying shoes. They include;

i. Fit and comfort

As a restaurant manager remember never to compromise fit and comfort while buying shoes. Always strive to get a model that fits before finalizing your choice. It is best to try shoes during the late hours of the day when the feet are slightly enlarged after all the flow of blood through the day.

Additionally, try the shoes while wearing the same type of socks that you will use with them. Also since two feet are not of the same size, measure both of them and pick the size of the shoe based on the biggest size. While buying, make sure that there is a quarter – to a half – inch of space between your longest toe and the end of the shoe.

ii. Feel the Insides

It is pertinent that you feel the insides of the shoe to ensure that there are no rough edges, tags or seams that may affect your feet in the later stages.

Note that such items can cause blisters to occur later. Also check the insoles of the shoes to make sure that they offer sufficient comfort for your feet that is good enough for long term use. Always trust your own comfort levels rather than the words written in an advertisement.

iii. Features

Remember that the right features of the shoe are crucial especially when you work in a restaurant. For instance, you may want a shoe that is waterproof when you need to work in wet environments. If you are moving on slippery surfaces like those covered by oil, a shoe with an anti – skid sole is an ideal option. Shoes that offer adequate protection for your toes with a sturdy toe guard are good for risky environments.

iv. The Sole

Do not forget to check the sole of the shoe for its durability. Soles are manufactured with various materials and each one comes with its own properties. Always ensure that they offer enough grip over smooth surfaces and are thick enough to protect against any sharp objects.

Also remember there are soles that offer effective cushioning and makes walking more comfortable. Check the lug patterns of the shoes and enquire whether they are durable enough to last for a sufficient period.

What to Avoid When Buying Restaurant Shoes 

It’s also important to know the necessary things you have to avoid when getting shoes as a restaurant manager. As you make your decision, ensure you avoid the following:

a. Buying the Cheapest Pair

Always remember that the phrase “you get what you pay for,” is nothing far from the truth especially when it has to do with working shoes. If you buy the cheapest shoe, you will probably end up with ones that are uncomfortable, increase your chances of injury, and cost you more in the long run.

b. Waterproof Shoes

Indeed waterproof shoes are impervious to water, meaning they don’t allow any water through. However, you get different waterproof ratings from IPX – 0 to IPX – 8. IPX – 0 offers no protection and IPX – 8 offers full protection, meaning you can put the shoes in the water and they’ll remain dry. These shoes may seem like an ideal option as they don’t let any water in.

The problem is that they also don’t let any moisture out, either. This can be problematic since moisture naturally builds up in your shoe over time. Nonetheless, the Best option is water-resistant shoes, which are designed to resist water penetration to a certain degree. Some common water-resistant materials include nylon, polyurethane, or neoprene.

c. Open Shoes

These include sandals and flip-flops, which offer no protection. You should also avoid boat shoes and heels.

Conclusion

So these are some of the best shoes for restaurant managers that are available in the current market and they come with some good features ensuring day-long comfort. This list contains shoes for men and women to enable both sexes to make a good choice.

Whether you are a restaurant manager or a head chef, remember that shoes are one of your most important tools. Fortunately, today’s hospitality staff enjoy a number of high – quality offerings that serve both function and fashion. You will never regret investing in the right pair.