There are a few professions that particularly benefit from shoes or sneakers with really good traction — namely those who may be surrounded by spilled fluids or liquids, like restaurant workers or healthcare professionals. Beyond that, people prone to a bit of clumsiness can benefit from non-slip shoes.
Whether it is from slipping at work or just tripping in general, falls can do a doozy on your body — so it’s best to prevent them however you can. “Falls can lead to foot fractures, ankle fractures, ankle sprains, tendon tears, and avulsion fractures,” says Dr. Adenike Sonaike, a podiatrist and medical director with Baker Street Health in Motion in New Jersey. “Avulsion fractures are fractures that are often created as your tendons try to restabilize you during a fall, but as they contract, they can pull off a small piece of the bone that they are attached to.”
Below, a podiatrist and an orthopedic surgeon outline what to consider when shopping for non-slip shoes. Find out what they said — plus, get a few of their best non-slip shoe recommendations.
How we picked the best non-slip shoes
To choose the best non-slip shoes, we asked experts what to keep in mind while shopping. Here, the key things they suggest you prioritize:
Strong treads: Look for a shoe that has a rubber outsole with a strong tread, says Dr. Brandon Haghverdian, an orthopedic surgeon at Hoag Orthopedic Institute in California. Rubber creates more friction as it hits the floor to give good grip and treads can help you gain traction on uneven or slippery ground.
Comfort: If your shoes aren’t comfortable, you may start walking funny — and that can lead you to lose your balance. “Supportive insoles can reduce foot fatigue,” says Haghverdian. You should also consider shoes with a wide toe box so your feet don’t feel scrunched.
Wide heel: Your shoes should make you feel stable. “Look for shoes with a low, wide heel to give you more stability,” says Haghverdian.
The best non-slip shoes of 2025
To compile a list of the best non-slip shoes, we asked our experts for recommendations. We also used their guidance to source highly rated options for both men and women that have at least a 4-star average rating from hundreds of reviews.
“Orthofeet has some great options that have cushioned heels, arch support and slip resistance,” says Sonaike. These sneakers have laces but can also be slipped on, thanks to a flexible heel. They have a wide heel cup and built-in orthopedic insoles for arch support, according to the brand. They also come in regular, wide and extra wide widths. Though this particular style is for women, Orthofeet makes a number of similar styles for men.
Another brand recommended by our experts, Shoes for Crews, makes work sneakers for women and men. This style for women is lightweight, has a super-padded insole and a thick rubber sole that provides good traction even on wet or oily surfaces, according to the brand. The upper is made from breathable mesh that is water-resistant.
Peek into any commercial kitchen, and there is a good chance you’ll spot a number of restaurant staffers wearing a pair of these. These unisex Crocs have non-slip treads and are made from a cushioned, flexible foam that can easily be cleaned with soap and water. There is also extra protection around the toes in case you drop something on them.
These work sneakers have a leather upper and a memory footbed for comfort. They are rated for electrical hazard protection and have thick rubber soles that offer high traction on slippery surfaces, according to the brand. Reviewers also note that these shoes are durable and have a roomy fit.
Dansko slip-on clogs are often worn by nurses and other healthcare professionals. Here’s why: They are made of leather that is easy to wipe down, have a padded insole and a thick sole with treads that offer protection from slippery floors, according to the brand. They also have a wide toe box and a reinforced toe for protection, plus a wider heel for stability.
Meet our experts
At NBC Select, we work with experts with specialized knowledge and authority based on relevant training and/or experience. We also ensure all expert advice and recommendations are made independently and without undisclosed financial conflicts of interest.
Dr. Adenike Sonaike is a podiatrist and medical director with Baker Street Health in Motion in New Jersey.
Dr. Brandon Haghverdian is an orthopedic surgeon at Hoag Orthopedic Institute in California
Why trust NBC Select?
Bethany Heitman is a contributor at NBC Select and a journalist who regularly covers beauty, home and lifestyle. For this story, she interviewed two podiatrists about non-slip shoes.