Investing in safe footwear is critical for helping ensure everyone’s safety when serving delicious meals! Working in a restaurant or bar requires specialized shoes that can easily handle slippery floors and messes.
Unfortunately, slips, trips, and falls are too common due to wet surfaces or spills, making non-slip shoes essential for any restaurant employee. With specially designed soles offering the best grip possible on even the slipperiest surfaces, workers can focus on their tasks without worrying about potential underfoot hazards.
In this post, we will discuss the importance of using non-slip shoes in a restaurant, what shoes you should avoid wearing, and provide a top 10 list of restaurants’ best non-slip shoes. So without further adieu.
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The 10 Best Non-Slip Restaurant Shoes
1. Dansko Clogs
Dansko Clogs have earned a well-deserved reputation in the hospitality and healthcare industries due to their superior quality and features. The leather construction is reliable, resilient, and easy to clean; while the padded instep collar keeps you comfortable throughout your shift with added support.
Additionally, Dansko Clogs boasts an ample toe box that enables unrestricted movement of toes without fear of pinching or cramping and a slip-resistant sole that offers trustworthy traction even on wet surfaces, thus reducing slips and falls.
Not only do Dansko Clogs feature a rocker bottom, which significantly reduces pressure on your legs and feet when standing for prolonged periods. They also provide a heel counter that provides stability and an EVA footbed for cushioning. With all these features combined, you can be sure to rely on their comfort throughout any shift in the hospitality industry.
2. Birkenstock Super Birki
The Birkenstock Super Birki clog is ideal for those in bustling and hectic work environments! Crafted from a durable, oil- and grease-resistant waterproof material that can be easily cleaned, this clog ensures long-term wear.
Furthermore, with its cork footbed removable for comfort and adequate weight distribution support, you can stand or move about your workplace worry-free for hours.
The non-slip sole guarantees stability on wet or slippery surfaces, so you can go about your day without worrying. Additionally, the spacious toe box allows for natural movement of toes and keeps them comfortable even if worn for long hours!
3. Sanitas Clogs
Sanitas Clogs are the go-to for those working in restaurants. They are crafted with superior leather to offer both durability and a sleek appearance. It doesn’t end there – the rubber sole has been engineered to deliver fantastic traction on wet and oily surfaces, ensuring an improved safety experience while you work!
The cork and latex footbed cushions your feet while providing unbeatable arch support. With the adjustable strap, you can create a personalized fit that keeps you stable but secure. Also, the heel cup cradles your heels for extra stability and protection against fatigue – all while enabling natural toe movement in its roomy toe box!
4. Crocs Bistro Clog
Crocs Bistro clogs are unisex and were thoughtfully crafted to equip individuals in the hospitality industry for success. Made from Croslite material, they are lightweight and built to last, yet easy to clean-a definite plus when working with messy ingredients!
In addition, their slip-resistant sole ensures secure footing on wet or oily surfaces while shielding feet against workplace spills and other dangers.
Easily adjustable heel straps ensure a snug fit, while the roomy toe box provides enough space for natural foot movement to reduce fatigue and discomfort. Plus, an orthotic footbed offers extra support and cushioning – perfect for those long days on your feet!
5. Sketchers Food Service Shoe
Sketcher Food Service shoes are the ideal solution for hospitality industry professionals, offering practicality and affordability. They are made with breathable mesh and have water and stain-resistant uppers, making them easy to keep clean. The slip-resistant sole ensures reliable traction on wet or oily surfaces to minimize slips and falls. It’s also insulated against accidental electrical contact.
The padded collar and tongue offer extra comfort throughout your shift while guarding against workplace hazards. There are additional styles available that offer embedded steel toe caps. Each shoe is equipped with memory foam insoles that reduce fatigue associated with extended wear – making them as comfortable to work in as safe!
6. Shoes for Crews
Shoes for Crews are perfect for work in restaurants, offering a secure and comfortable fit like none other. These lightweight sneakers feature a low-top design from arch to toe and strategic ventilation to keep feet cool.
The upper is crafted from both textile and synthetic materials that are water-resistant and easy to clean, ensuring your safety against hot liquids. The removable cushioning insole provides extra support, while the exclusive anti-slip technology gives superior traction in wet or dry conditions.
With Shoes for Crews on your side, you’ll have the protection you need in restaurant shoes, plus the security of knowing you’re stylishly dressed too! Options are available for men and women, with prices that are reasonable compared to other “name brand” shoes.
7. Emeril’s Footwear
Emeril’s Footwear is a specialized line of FOH and kitchen shoes designed to ensure a safe footing for employees. Yes, these are from Emeril Lagasse, a world-renowned famous chef. The leather construction makes them easy to clean, while the slip-resistant sole ensures reliable traction even on wet or oily surfaces. With Emeril’s Footwear, you can have peace of mind knowing your feet will be secure and comfortable during any shift!
Relax your feet with this insole’s soothing memory foam cushioning that provides both comfort and support. The breathable lining keeps your feet dry while keeping them cool, ensuring they remain healthy even during prolonged periods of wear. And if more help is needed, a padded collar and tongue are included to give you extra assurance for optimal foot health!
8. Avia
Avia non-slip shoes are renowned amongst restaurant personnel for their superior comfort, stability, and affordable price point. Each pair of shoes is composed of durable, quality materials that ensure the utmost protection against wetness or oiliness.
An anti-slip sole further increases security by providing reliable traction on any surface – so you can easily move without worrying about slips or falls. They are tested in accordance with ASTM F2913, the official standard for slip-resistant footwear in the US.
With the luxurious cushioning of its insole, these shoes provide unparalleled comfort and support – effectively reducing foot fatigue and discomfort. Plus, a roomy toe box gives your toes ample breathing space to move naturally – further minimizing tiredness from extended wear during service!
9. Fila Memory Workshift Shoes
Fila Memory Workshift Shoes are perfect for men and women hospitality professionals seeking high-quality, affordable, and comfortable leather footwear. Crafted with durable yet lightweight synthetic and leather overlays, Fila shoes ensure your feet stay safe and supported throughout every shift.
The slip-resistant sole offers superior traction on wet or oily surfaces, while the cushioned insole provides exceptional support and shock absorption, making it easy to wear them all day.
The shoes offer a relaxed style and fit but are limited in colors (black and white only). They are constructed with lightweight memory foam sock liner and midsole, making long shifts effortless by providing superior all-day comfort and fatigue reduction.
10. Snibbs
Snibbs is a revolutionary brand of anti-slip shoes for the hospitality industry, crafted from quality materials and built to keep you both stylish and comfy. The slip-resistant sole delivers steady footing even on damp or greasy surfaces.
The cushioned insole gives support and shock absorption so that your feet remain happy when standing for extended periods. Look no further – with Snibbs’ footwear selection, you don’t have to sacrifice style for safety!
Not only does Snibbs provide a wide selection of shoes, ranging from timeless clogs to modern sneaker-style designs that complement any workplace or personal style, but their spacious toe box encourages natural movement – helping fight off foot exhaustion with every step.
The Importance of Using Non-Slip Restaurant Shoes
Slip and fall accidents are a leading cause of injuries in the restaurant industry. By wearing non-slip footwear, those in the hosptality industry can drastically reduce their chances of sustaining an injury caused by slipping or falling. In fact, according to the National Floor Safety Institute, slips and falls account for 25% of all workplace injuries in the food service business.
For restaurant owners, slip and fall accidents in the restaurant industry can be costly. The average cost of a slip and fall accident is $15,000, which can result in various injuries, including fractures, head injuries, and back injuries. In addition, slip and fall accidents can damage a restaurant’s reputation and lead to lawsuits.
Wearing slip-resistant shoes for both the front of house and back of house is crucial for many reasons, some of which are outlined below:
1. Reduces the Risk of Slips and Falls
Navigating a wet restaurant floor can be perilous, making the right shoes an essential safety gear. Non-slip footwear is designed with slip-resistant soles to help reduce risks associated with slippery surfaces and provide greater traction control, protecting your employees and customers from potentially serious injuries.
2. Increases Traction and Stability
Anti-slip restaurant shoes provide a better grip on wet surfaces and offer improved stability and traction when running food. It benefits restaurant workers carrying heavy trays or objects while navigating bustling kitchens. With extra protection against slips and falls-which can result in costly losses of productivity and injury-it’s no wonder why many restaurants prioritize investing in these types of shoes for their staff!
3. Enhances Productivity
When restaurant staff is outfitted with the proper footwear, they can work swiftly and securely. Slip-resistant shoes provide optimal stability and traction to lessen the risk of slips or falls, thus increasing workers’ productivity for smoother service in any environment.
4. Meets Industry Standards
Adhering to the slip-resistant footwear regulations established by countries worldwide is paramount for maintaining safety inside food service establishments and helps reduce accidents and legal liabilities. Noncompliance can lead to hefty fines that must be paid – so let’s ensure everyone wears appropriate shoes!
5. Protects Against Spills and Hot Liquids
The slip-resistant soles of anti-slip shoes not only offer superior grip but also serve as a protective layer between the feet and any spilled liquids. Thus, you can rest easy knowing that these restaurant shoes will keep your feet safe from hazardous spills or hot liquids – reducing the risk of burns or other injuries.
6. Comfortable and Durable
Whether on your feet all day or casually strolling, restaurant shoes ensure lasting comfort and stability. These intrepid kicks boast contoured insoles for support, shock absorbers to reduce discomfort, and breathable linings that promote air circulation – essential features that guard against slipping while protecting foot health.
7. Improves Hygiene
Wearing non-slip shoes improves safety in the kitchen and elevates hygiene levels. Think about it: regular shoes can accumulate dirt and bacteria on the soles, which staff members could unintentionally carry into food preparation areas. However, closed-toe designs with slip-resistant soles greatly reduce this cross-contamination risk and protect customers from a potentially dangerous foodborne illness.
8. Reduces Workers’ Compensation Claims
By investing in slip-resistant work shoes, restaurant owners can save time and money that would otherwise be spent on expensive workers’ compensation claims resulting from slip-and-fall accidents. Wearing such footwear will drastically reduce the risk of workplace mishaps – a wise endeavor for any establishment dedicated to safety and productivity.
What Shoes Not to Wear at a Restaurant
All restaurant employees should wear appropriate footwear to uphold safety and hygiene standards. Inappropriate or ill-fitting shoes can be hazardous, uncomfortable, and unsanitary for staff and customers; thus, you must choose when selecting your workwear. Here are some types of shoes that you should avoid in a restaurant:
Open-Toe Shoes: Open-toe shoes, like sandals and flip-flops, expose your toes and the top of your foot to potential danger. Unfortunate accidents such as dropping heavy objects on feet or spilling hot liquids can cause serious harm. Take precautions when wearing open-toe footwear to avoid these unfortunate events from occurring.
High Heels: High heels are a potential hazard, especially in fast-paced working environments–they can leave you vulnerable to falls and injuries due to their instability. Unfortunately for those who love them, high heels do not support your feet properly, which means arch or heel aches may be inevitable! Moreover, the elevated heel stresses the ankle and foot, leading to pain and fatigue.
Slip-On Shoes: Loafers and regular clogs are especially hazardous in restaurant settings, as they can easily slip off while workers rapidly change direction. Furthermore, these styles of slip-on shoes do not offer enough support to the feet; this causes foot exhaustion and discomfort. If you are a restaurant owner, to protect your employees from potential trips and falls, ensure all work footwear is firmly secured on their feet at all times.
Athletic Shoes: Athletic shoes are unsuitable for a restaurant setting due to their lack of slip-resistance on wet or greasy surfaces and the tendency for breathable mesh material to accumulate food debris and liquids. As such, these types of footwear can significantly increase the risk of slips and falls in slippery environments. Consequently, restaurants must adhere to proper safety and hygiene standards when selecting appropriate workplace attire.
Canvas Shoes: Canvas shoes, like sneakers and casual shoes, are unsuitable for restaurant settings as they do not provide the necessary protection to the feet. Not only are these types of materials water-resistant or slip-resistant, but also easily accumulate food particles and liquids which can be a severe health hazard since it increases the potential for cross-contamination. So don’t take the risk – protect your feet!
Conclusion
Working in a restaurant or bar demands the right non-slip shoes to guarantee your safety and avoid slips or falls. With an extensive selection of footwear, finding one that offers a reliable grip on wet surfaces and comfortable support for long shifts is easy.
Investing in proper non-slip shoes makes all the difference when you need assurance of comfort and security throughout your job – so steer clear of slippery-soled ones.
Did we miss any of your favorite shoes on the list? Please let us know below, and maybe we’ll add them!
