Meet Emily Melville, an experienced ESL teacher and writer at Wonderful World English. Emily is a devoted, CELTA-qualified English teacher who dedicates her time to sharing valuable insights into language learning for students and educators.
Teaching might appear from the outside as a mostly desk-bound job.
Many picture educators seated behind desks, poring over tests or seamlessly clicking through digital presentations.
Yet, those in the field can attest: it’s largely a stand-and-deliver role.
With 7-8 hours on the go, a teacher’s feet will often bear the brunt of the day’s weight.
The right pair of shoes can be a game-changer.
Not only do they provide much-needed support, but they can also leave you feeling comfortable at day’s end instead of dragging your feet.
Your teaching environment and students do influence your choice.
The right shoes can be transformative, offering comfort and style.
Shoes are essential at the best times, especially for those on their feet for several hours a day!
Whether at lively summer camps or upscale academies, options vary from trainers to chic pairs. Brands like Clarks, Skechers, New Balance, and Merrell’s lead the way. There are also some excellent budget options available for teachers, such as Crocs, TIOSEBON, and Dream Pairs.
Drawing from my teaching journey, I’ve shortlisted some top picks that blend comfort, style, and affordability.
Remember, shoe choice is personal, so consider these a starting point for your quest.
Let’s step into the world of teaching footwear, shall we?
The Best Shoes to Wear for Teachers
Discover the top-recommended teaching shoes for comfort and style below.
We have scoured the internet and included the very best shoes for both male and female teachers.
Check out the information and images and see which one suits you!
1. Clarks Women’s Slip-On Shoe
Clarks has a long-standing reputation for creating comfortable, durable footwear, and the Women’s Slip-On Shoe is no exception.
The price ranges between $70.67 and $130.00 on Amazon and stands at $130.00 on Zappos, which is a testament to its quality and the trust consumers place in the brand.
With a rating of 4.5 stars on Amazon and a perfect five stars on Zappos, it’s clear that this shoe has met the expectations of many.
The construction of these shoes speaks volumes about their comfort and durability.
Made from 100% leather, they promise a snug yet flexible fit that molds to the shape of your foot over time.
The rubber sole provides adequate grip, reducing the chances of slipping on slick surfaces – a feature handy for teachers constantly moving.
The heel, measuring approximately 1″, and the platform, measuring about 0.5″, provide a slight elevation that’s comfortable for all-day wear.
Furthermore, the removable OrthoLite® cushioned footbed is a godsend for those long hours on your feet, offering plush cushioning that doesn’t compromise on support.
The innovative Air Circulation System, unique to Clarks, enhances the shoe’s breathability, ensuring a cool and dry environment for your feet.
2. Skechers Performance Women’s Walking Shoe
Skechers has been synonymous with comfortable, stylish footwear.
The Performance Women’s Go Walk 4 Pursuit Walking Shoe holds up this reputation well.
Available at a price range of $41.20 to $48.19 on Amazon US, and between $78.00 and $137.40 on Amazon Canada, these shoes offer a blend of comfort and style that doesn’t break the bank.
A rating of 4.5 stars on Amazon is a robust indicator of the shoe’s quality and comfort.
Constructed from 100% Mesh fabric, these shoes are exceptionally lightweight, making them ideal for individuals who are on their feet most of the day.
The rubber sole ensures good traction, minimizing the risk of slips and falls.
One of the standout features is the highly responsive 5GEN midsole cushioning, which provides adequate bounce and support, reducing the impact on your feet as you walk.
The stabilizing heel fabric overlay panels provide a nice balance, ensuring a snug fit while allowing for natural foot movement.
This is especially significant for teachers who find themselves moving around a lot throughout the day.
3. New Balance Men’s Walking Shoe
New Balance has carved a niche in crafting shoes that offer superior support and comfort.
The MW928 Walking Shoe for men is priced at $124.99 on Amazon and $154.99 on both New Balance’s official website and Zappos, reflecting its premium build quality.
With a rating of 4.4 stars on Amazon and 4.5 stars on Zappos, it’s apparent that many find value in this pair.
These shoes are constructed from 100% leather, offering a durable and comfortable fit.
The rubber sole provides excellent traction, while the secure lace-up vamp ensures a snug fit.
The thick, cushioned collar offers additional comfort and support, reducing irritation around the ankle area.
One of the key features of the MW928 is the stabilizing ROLLBAR technology, which enhances the shoe’s stability, minimizing rear-foot movement.
This is crucial for guys who require a higher level of foot support, making these shoes a solid choice for teachers.
4. Merrell Women’s Slip-On
Merrell is known for producing reliable, comfortable footwear, and the Women’s Jungle Moc Slip-On is a great casual option for teachers.
Priced between $55.17 and $100.00 on Amazon, $74.99 to $100.00 on Merrell’s official website, and $124.95 on Zappos, this shoe is a budget-friendly choice without compromising on quality.
With a 4-star rating on Zappos and a 4.6-star rating on Walmart, it’s evident that many find this shoe to be a reliable choice.
The Jungle Moc Slip-On is perfect for casual wear with its smooth suede upper and the Merrell air cushion underfoot, which provides extra support, making it suitable for all-day wear.
The breathable mesh lining ensures your feet stay cool and comfortable, while the molded nylon arch shank adds to the overall comfort and support provided by these shoes.
Their easy slip-on design is a bonus for on-the-go individuals and makes them a practical choice for teachers seeking a blend of comfort and support.
Playing games is a great way to keep students focused and engaged.
They can also require a lot of movement and pressure on a teacher’s poor feet!
Check out the guide below for some great classroom games that you can play with your students!
Related Article: Fun Classroom Games to Play – Teacher’s Guide
Best Budget-Friendly Options for Teachers
Quality footwear is crucial for those spending long hours on their feet, yet staying within a budget is equally important.
Here are some excellent budget-friendly alternatives that don’t compromise on comfort or style:
1. Crocs Unisex Classic Clog
- Price: Ranges between $30.00 and $50.00 on Amazon.
- Rating: 4.8 stars on Amazon with over 143,000 reviews.
- Features: Known for their comfort, Crocs provide ample cushioning and support with a lightweight design. The ventilation ports add breathability and help shed water and debris quickly.
2. ASICS Women’s Gel-Contend 5 Shoes / ASICS Men’s Gel-Contend 5 Shoes
- Price: Ranges between $40.00 and $70.00 on Amazon.
- Rating: 4.6 stars for women’s and 4.5 stars for men’s on Amazon.
- Features: With its Rearfoot GEL® Cushioning System, these shoes help attenuate shock during impact and allow for a smooth transition to midstance, perfect for individuals on their feet all day.
Click here for mens.
3. TIOSEBON Women’s Walking Shoes / TIOSEBON Men’s Walking Sneakers
- Price: Ranges between $30.00 and $40.00 on Amazon.
- Rating: 4.5 stars for both women’s and men’s on Amazon.
- Features: Known for their lightweight design and breathable mesh upper, these shoes provide adequate cushioning and support, ideal for a day full of standing and walking.
Click here for mens.
4. Dream Pairs Women’s Flats
- Price: Ranges between $20.00 and $40.00 on Amazon.
- Rating: 4.2 stars.
- Features: These shoes offer a stylish yet comfortable option with their soft lining and latex-cushioned footbed, making them a suitable choice for a professional setting.
Conclusion
The right shoes for teaching depend on your work setting, personal style, and comfort needs.
Often, comfortable trainers or smart flat shoes like loafers, brogues, or boots are good choices.
Slip-on shoes are also popular for their convenience and lightweight feel, making them easy to wear throughout the day.
Remember, everyone’s feet are different, so what works well for one person might not work for another.
It’s worth trying different styles and brands to find what suits you best.
Investing in a good pair of shoes is crucial for your comfort during long classroom hours.
The right shoes can really make a difference in your day.
We hope this guide helps you find a pair that’s just right for you.
Enjoy your shoe shopping, and have a great day ahead!
Image Attribution: All images licensed via canva.com
