Top 11 Super Best Kitchen Shoes and Chef Shoes
Last Updated April 21, 2023
- Buying Guide for Perfect Kitchen Shoes
- List of All The Best Kitchen and Chef Shoes
- 11 Best Kitchen Shoes and Chef Shoes
- 1. Dansko Men’s XP Kitchen Shoes
- 2. Birkenstock Unisex Slip Resistant Work Chef Shoes
- 3. Birkenstock Boston Super Grip Kitchen Shoes
- 4. Dansko Women’s Professional Clog
- 5. Skechers Flex Mcallen Food Service Shoe
- 6. Merrell Jungle Moc Slip-On Shoe
- 7. Skechers Soft Stride-Softie Kitchen Shoes
- 8. Skechers Cessnock Food Service Shoe
- 9. Skechers Flex Bendon Chef Shoes
- 10. Shoes for Crews Evolution II, Slip Resistant Chef Shoes
- 11. Keen Utility PTC Slip-ON Kitchen Shoes
- Frequently Asked Questions
- Conclusion
Being a chef takes a lot of effort and a pair of best kitchen shoes to work comfortably.
Believe it or not, working in a kitchen includes the risk of slipping and catching fire. You need a pair which can protect you from both of them.
Adding a waterproof upper to such shoes will surely be helpful for a chef.
If you are searching for one such pair of shoes that can keep you comfortable and safe from all the hazards, then I have collated some of the top best kitchen shoes that you should get your hands on.
Working all day on a kitchen floor can result in a lot of tiresome if you don’t have a comfortable pair of shoes.
This guide will help you choose a perfect pair for all the chefs and budding chefs. So, let’s learn a few more things before we move on to the list of the top best chef shoes.
However, if you are short on time, you can go through our quick preferences.
Budget Pick
Skechers Cessnock Food Service Shoe
- Slip-resistant outsole aids in keeping your feet stable while working in the kitchen
- Protective features like EH safety prevent any mishaps
- Lightweight shock absorbing midsole provides comfort to your feet
Best Value
Merrell Jungle Moc Slip-On Shoe
- Suede leather upper creates a stylish appearance
- EVA footframe midsole provides superior cushioning to your feet
- Air cushion in the heel absorbs impacts while stabilizing every step
Premium Pick
Dansko Women’s Professional Clog
- The oiled design adds to your professional appearance
- A raised heel provides a better posture for additional comfort
- High toe box provides more room to move your toes easily
Buying Guide for Perfect Kitchen Shoes
Choosing a perfect pair means more productivity and a pain-free walk when you reach home after the shift.
Most people wear sneakers and walking shoes to work but we highly recommend you to use kitchen shoes.
You will automatically start feeling more comfortable with a good pair of chef shoes. Here are some factors that you need to look for to select the best of all –
1) Material
Everyone wants a pair that can last for a long time and for that, you should know about the design and material used. The material is very important as you will be putting a lot of pressure on the feet while working in the kitchen.
Keeping that in mind, you should also focus on breathability as it will keep your feet fresh and dry. A hot environment can make your feet swell and it can be painful.
To prevent such a thing, you should choose quick-drying insole kitchen shoes with mesh or fabric lining.
2) Comfort Level
As discussed earlier, you should always be comfortable in whatever work you are doing daily. According to ecofriendlyfood, the comfort of shoes is the most important factor in selecting a good kitchen shoe.
A comfortable pair of shoes will always keep you stable while walking on all types of surfaces. Choose an outsole that is suitable for wet floors and hard floors.
To term any shoes as the best shoes for kitchen work, I’ll advise always looking for hazard protection and good arch support with cushioned support around your feet.
3) Gender
Men’s and Women’s shoes are designed according to different foot shapes.
Women’s shoes are not as wide as Men’s kitchen shoes and that’s why one should select their pair of shoes accordingly.
Don’t fall for any other gender shoes just because they are on sale.
4) Outsole Material
You should be concerned about the grip and outsole part of the shoes. A good pair of kitchen shoes should always have a non-slip grip with a durable rubber sole.
I’ll always prefer going through the sole properties. And as a result, these best non-slip kitchen shoes will save you from falling and slipping on wet floors.
I know it gets messy sometimes in a kitchen and the floor often gets slippery. So, it is better if you keep it risk-free by using slip-resistant chef shoes.
List of All The Best Kitchen and Chef Shoes
11 Best Kitchen Shoes and Chef Shoes
1. Dansko Men’s XP Kitchen Shoes
Features
- Upper Material: Synthetic Leather
- Outsole Material: Rubber
- Insole Material: Memory Foam
- Footbed Type: Removable
- Midsole Material: EVA
Made with waterproof leather uppers, Dansko Men’s XP 2.0 makes for one of the best kitchen shoes.
It has a memory insole for cushioning and proper moisture management for comfort and odor-free feet.
Padding all around the shoe keeps your feet relaxed throughout the day. It also has arch technology which aids in keeping you stable while walking.
Its slip-resistant outsole ensures that you don’t slip easily while working on a wet kitchen floor.
Pros
- Cushioned midsole
- Odor-control
- Moisture-managing insole
- Padded from collar and insole
- Arch Technology
- TPU heel counter for stability
- Round roomy toe
- Memory Foam footbed
- Waterproof upper
Cons
- Fewer colors available
- Not very stylish
- Too wide from toe
2. Birkenstock Unisex Slip Resistant Work Chef Shoes
Features
- Upper Material: Polyurethane
- Insole Material: Microfiber
- Footbed Material: Polyurethane
- Outsole Material: Polyurethane
- Insole Type: Cushioned
These shoes have a microfiber insole for amazing comfort and cushioning to your feet.
They look robust from the outside and they are durable enough to last for a long time. From the inside, they are pretty soft and comfortable to walk around all day long.
An anatomically shaped footbed takes time to mold to the shape of your feet.
But once it has adapted to your foot shape, there is no other shoe more comfortable than Professional Unisex Profi Birki Slip Resistant Work Shoe.
Pros
- PU insole for cushioning
- Synthetic waterproof uppers
- Removable insole
- Microfiber insole for cushy comfort
- Slip-resistant outsole
- Lightweight design
- Anatomically shaped insole
- Superior comfort
Cons
- Size doesn’t line up with an actual size
- They stay painful for a few early days
- Fewer color options
3. Birkenstock Boston Super Grip Kitchen Shoes
Features
- Upper Material: Leather
- Footbed Lining: Suede
- Midsole Material: EVA
- Insole Material: Latex, Cork
- Outsole Material: Rubber
With their professional looking design, these shoes are one of the best kitchen work shoes for every chef out there.
Although, there are a few complications when it comes to arch support and size. It has a cushioned insole for comfort and its leather upper adds to the durability.
The EVA midsole protects the feet from bumps and impacts.
Its slip-resistant outsole keeps you stable on most types of surfaces. I’ll highly recommend going for this pair of shoes if you looking a lightweight non-slip shoe.
Pros
- Nonslip rubber outsole
- One strap closure
- Stylish appearance
- Various colors available
- Professional design
- Leather upper
- EVA midsole
- Cushioned insole
Cons
- Not enough grip
- Higher arch than normal
- Runs small
4. Dansko Women’s Professional Clog
Features
- Upper Material: Leather, fabric
- Collar Type: Padded
- Outsole Material: Rubber
- Heel Height: 2”
- Heel Counter: TPU
Leather upper oiled perfectly for a professional look, Dansko Women’s Professional Clogs are the best pair of shoes.
They have a padded insole and collar for exceptional comfort and its roomy toe box allows comfortable toe movements.
A stacked heel design makes you look taller and provides a better walking experience. These non-slip kitchen shoes prevent slips and falls while walking on a wet floor.
Its breathable leather lining aids in keeping your feet dry and fresh.
Pros
- Closed frame
- Easy to clean leather
- Padded collar
- Cushioned comfort from the insole
- TPU heel counter for stability
- Breathable lining
- Stacked heel design
Cons
- Runs tight from sides
- Inside of the shoe isn’t durable
- Bulky design
5. Skechers Flex Mcallen Food Service Shoe
Features
- Upper Material: Mesh
- Outsole Material: Rubber
- Heel Height: 1.25”
- Insole Material: Memory Foam
- Midsole Material: FlexSole
This pair of shoes by Skechers is everything a chef needs. They are protected with reinforcements all over the shoes.
These shoes have an electric hazard safety material to prevent shocks and a stain-resistant and water-resistant upper.
This protects the shoes from spillage and its FlexSole provides a pretty comfortable gait.
It has a gel-infused memory foam that keeps your feet relaxed throughout the shift hours on kitchen and restaurant floors.
Pros
- Slip-resistant traction outsole
- Electrical Hazard Safety
- Durable leather upper
- Water and stain-resistant
- Slip-on style
- Reinforced stitching
- Built-in heel
- Padded collar
Cons
- Narrow opening
- Tight at toe
- Less cushioned
6. Merrell Jungle Moc Slip-On Shoe
Features
- Upper Material: Suede
- Insole Material: OrthoLite
- Midsole Material: EVA
- Lining Material: Mesh
- Outsole Material: Rubber
Merrell Men’s Jungle Moc Slip-On Shoes are best when it comes to any type of work.
I personally recommend this pair of non-slip shoe because it gives the best overall features in minimum budget.
They come in a variety of colors and good arch support to keep your feet stable. Its breathable lining keeps your feet fresh and dry all day long.
The suede upper adds to the style and its molded EVA midsole provides cushioned support.
This pair also includes an air cushion in the heel that provides a comfortable gait.
Pros
- Unique toe design
- Various colors available
- EVA foot frame for cushioning
- Nylon arch shank support
- Molded midsole
- 3mm lug for traction
- Breathable lining
- Suede upper for a smooth appearance
Cons
- Opening is tight
- Uncomfortable toe
- Lack of cushioning
7. Skechers Soft Stride-Softie Kitchen Shoes
Features
- Upper Material: Leather
- Insole Material: Polyurethane
- Outsole Material: Rubber
- Closure Type: Lace-up
- Heel Height: 1.5”
Skechers for Work Women’s Soft Stride-Softie Lace-Up shoes have a removable PU insole for proper cushioning.
It also features a leather upper that adds to your professional look. It features perforated designs at the sides that keep your feet cool and dry.
The insole contours to the shape of your feet for additional comfort. All in all, this is one of the best of all chef shoes available on the internet.
Pros
- Highly durable
- Removable insole
- PU material for cushioning
- Rubber traction outsole
- Perforation for breathability
- Leather upper for a premium look
- High heel for a taller appearance
Cons
- Less cushioning
- Wear out from sides
- Average arch support
8. Skechers Cessnock Food Service Shoe
Features
- Upper Material: Mesh
- Outsole Material: Rubber
- Midsole Material: EVA
- Insole Material: Memory Foam
- Lining Material: Fabric
Made with Memory Foam and an EVA midsole, these shoes can be coined as the most comfortable chef shoes.
It has an amazing sporty design and lightweight materials that add to the comfort level. Its stain-resistant and water-resistant upper prevents them from getting wet and dirty.
Moreover, they protect you from electric shocks with their Electric Hazard safety features.
This is almost everything a chef would have asked for the features in the best kitchen shoes for them.
Pros
- Proper Breathability
- Stylish appearance
- Rubber traction outsole
- Memory foam insole for comfort
- Fabric lining for moisture management
- Bungee lacing system
- Water-resistant mesh upper
Cons
- Less arch support
- Less durable stitching
- Runs small than usual size
9. Skechers Flex Bendon Chef Shoes
Features
- Upper Material: Mesh
- Water-Resistant: Yes
- Midsole Material: FlexSole
- Heel Height: 1”
- Insole Material: Memory Foam
Skechers have come up with an all-in-one pair of shoes that features memory foam insole for amazing comfort.
These shoes also have a water-resistant upper and stain-proof upper to clean them easily. FlexSole design lets you move your body along with every step you take.
The overall design is highly durable with a protective layer to prevent electric shocks while working.
It has slip-resistant soles that aid in keeping your feet stable even on wet surfaces.
Pros
- Memory foam cushioning
- Moisture management
- FlexSole for flexible movements
- 1” heel for a taller appearance
- Mesh fabric for breathability
- Synthetic overlays
- Relaxed fit design
Cons
- Less cushioning in the heel
- No lateral support
- Runs large than actual size
10. Shoes for Crews Evolution II, Slip Resistant Chef Shoes
Features
- Upper Material: Synthetic
- Insole Material: Foam
- Outsole Material: Rubber
- Water-Resistant: Yes
- Closure Type: Lace-up
These non-slip shoes are safest for every chef out there.
Working in a kitchen gets so hard with mishaps happening all day long. Wet floors often make it hard for a chef to stand and cook.
With these amazing shoes, you get proper cushioned support an exoskeleton that provides support.
However, they are a bit expensive than all other variants but the features you get make it all worth it.
If you can afford a little extra, I’ll definitely advise checking these kitchen shoes.
Pros
- Slip-resistant outsole
- Waterproof upper
- Cushioned support
- Ventilated from all sides
- SpillGaurd technology
- Zone Traction outsole
- Exoskeleton supportive design
- Airbag for support
Cons
- No pull loops
- Squeak while walking
- A bit expensive
11. Keen Utility PTC Slip-ON Kitchen Shoes
Features
- Upper Material: Leather
- Midsole Material: Polyurethane
- Outsole Material: Rubber
- Insole Material: Memory Foam
- Toe Type: Soft toe
Slip-ons are pretty easy to put on and they save you a lot of time too.
These shoes are the best fit for budding chefs who often run late to work.
Anyways, these shoes are made with a cushioned midsole and memory foam as a footbed for exceptional comfort. It also features a soft toe to prevent any type of injury.
Also, these shoes are made with a slip-resistant and oil-resistant outsole for amazing grip.
Pros
- Water-resistant leather upper
- Oil and slip-resistant outsole
- TPU shank for stability
- Elastic gore panels for secure closure
- Leather lining
- Compression-molded outsole
- Soft toe for protection
- PU midsole
- Memory foam cushioning
Cons
- Not very stylish
- Fewer colors options
- Too wide
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the most important reason for wearing the proper shoes in the kitchen?
The main reason for wearing the best kitchen shoes in the kitchen is comfort and safety. You need shoes that have a stain-resistant and water-resistant upper with a comfortable insole and midsole for comfort. With that, make sure they are non slip kitchen shoes to prevent falling or slipping on wet floors.
Are all slip-resistant chef shoes the same?
No, they are not the same as some might be slip-resistant for a smooth surface while others can also provide grip on oily and wet floors. They vary from brand to brand and I recommend using Skecher’s slip-resistant outsole.
What shoes should you wear in the kitchen?
If you are working in the home kitchen, you must prefer kitchen shoes with rubber soles. But if you are working in industries or hotels, the shoes with leather and steel toe materials will provide added protection and advantage.
Do I really need slip-resistant shoes?
If you are working in the kitchen, there are chances of water, oil, or other liquid on the floor which can make you slip. Therefore, to avoid this situation, I will strongly recommend wearing a good slip-resistant shoe while working in the kitchen.
Conclusion
If you have come this far, we hope you have selected yourself the best kitchen shoes. We know how hard it is to work in a 10-hour kitchen shift and that’s why these shoes are going to keep you comfortable and happy.
Go on grab your pair of best chef shoes today to experience exceptional comfort and less pain.
Do let me know in the comments section below, what you think about the above list. Also, if you have any other suggestions, they are highly welcomed.
