Because concrete is so durable and inexpensive, it’s a popular flooring choice for modern workplaces. For example, in factories and warehouses, concrete is preferred for its stain-proof and water-resistant properties. It’s easy to clean and can withstand fire, bacteria, and odors. Despite its durability, concrete is also, unfortunately, hard. This makes it not so popular with those who have to spend long hours working, standing, or walking on it.
Research shows that regular, prolonged standing on hard surfaces can lead to pain and discomfort. Workers who spend all day on concrete may experience shin splints, for example, or Achilles tendonitis. These minor aches can lead to long-term health issues, like chronic back pain and arthritis, if left unaddressed. In addition to stretching regularly and taking frequent breaks, it’s important to invest in high-quality footwear to combat these risks.
By investing in a great pair of shoes, you’ll be taking care of your feet and back. In turn, this helps to preserve your health at work. So, what are the best shoes for standing all day on concrete? We’ve rounded up our top recommendations to help you choose.
Whether you’re looking for the best overall shoes, or something more specific, like the best women’s shoes, we’ve got you covered.
Explore our helpful guide to find a pair that works as hard as you do.
- How We Selected These Shoes
- Best Shoes for Concrete Floors
- Best Shoes for Standing on Concrete
- Best Women’s Shoes for Standing on Concrete for Long Hours
- Best Shoes for Walking on Concrete All Day
- Best Shoes for Working on Concrete Floors
- Final Notes
How We Selected These Shoes
When choosing the best shoes for concrete floors, there are three major factors to consider. The first is comfort. You need something that can offer ample cushioning but is also flexible and breathable. There’s nothing worse than having to deal with sore, tired feet that also feel hot and sweaty.
It’s also important to find shoes that offer the stability required for walking and standing on hard surfaces. The soles should be durable and offer plenty of traction. Smooth concrete can be very slippery, especially when wet. Investing in shoes that provide a good grip will help keep you steady to prevent slips and falls.
The final factor to consider is how much support the shoes provide. They should be sturdy enough to withstand everyday wear while providing adequate heel and arch support. This will ensure your weight is evenly distributed and supported, helping to reduce the risk of injury.
With these three factors in mind, we set out to find the best shoes for concrete floors. Our selection is not only affordable, but it includes some of the best brands available today. Read on to discover what each pair does best and why it makes our list of recommendations.
Best Shoes for Concrete Floors
Brooks Glycerin 20
The best shoes for concrete floors are super-soft to help protect your feet from standing or walking on them all day. Enter the Brooks Glycerin 20. These running shoes are generously cushioned, making them one of the best for absorbing impact on hard surfaces.
Brooks Glycerin 20 shoes feature the brand’s innovative DNA Loft v3 midsoles. DNA Loft is made from a combination of EVA foam, rubber, and air. The third version of this innovation incorporates nitrogen gas for a softer, lighter, and more responsive fit. The nitrogen is infused into the midsoles’ unique compounds, allowing the creation of larger, more consistent cells. This provides a smoother, softer ride that adapts to your needs.
Brooks Glycerin 20 shoes also feature breathable, engineered air mesh uppers for added comfort. These help to keep your feet fresh while holding them comfortably in place for a secure fit. This is a major bonus when you’re on your feet for long hours.
The redesigned outsole also offers a wider platform for easier, smoother transitions. For the ultimate softness underfoot, you can’t beat these shoes for concrete floors.
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Adidas Ultra Boost 22
The Adidas Ultra Boost 22 is one of the most comfortable running shoes on the market today. These plush shoes not only deliver on cushioning but also provide incredible responsiveness. They feature Boost midsoles, a Linear Energy Push system, and Continental rubber outsoles.
Adidas’ Boost technology offers 20% more energy return with every step. It also provides maximum durability and flexibility. You can wear these shoes all day, every day, and they’ll hold up without compromising on performance. Boost is also designed to withstand different conditions. Come rain or shine, you can rely on them to stay comfortable. The cushioning properties will also make walking on concrete floors feel like walking on air.
The Linear Energy Push system in Adidas Ultra Boost 22 shoes provides a 15% increase in forefoot bending stiffness. This evolution of the brand’s legendary torsion system is fitted to the outsoles for a more responsive ride. Made by Continental, the rubber outsoles provide good traction and excellent grip. Whether walking or standing on concrete floors all day, these shoes have you covered.
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Best Shoes for Standing on Concrete
Hoka Bondi 8
The foamy design of the Hoka Bondi 8 makes these shoes an ideal choice for long hourson your feet. They provide ample cushioning and stability for hard surfaces, like concrete. The lightweight, resilient foam absorbs impact for a smooth feel.
Hoka Bondi 8 shoes also have rear crash pads, which provide a balanced ride from heel to toe. This dreamy fit has earned these shoes the American Podiatric Medical Association’s Seal of Acceptance. Now you can feel confident that you’re investing in quality.
Thanks to their comfort, responsiveness, and bounce, Hoka Bondi 8 shoes make excellent recovery footwear. They’re ideal for wearing every day, especially when you’re feeling extra fatigued. You can wrap your feet in soft comfort without risking further injury.
Another great feature of Hoka Bondi 8 shoes is that they’re sustainable. Each pair is made from vegan-friendly materials and features recycled mesh in the uppers. These shoes are a great fit if you’re looking for stylish performance footwear without any guilt.
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Best Women’s Shoes for Standing on Concrete for Long Hours
Women’s On Cloudmonster
We understand that women want to wear shoes that feel good and look great. That’s why the On Cloudmonster makes our list. These sleek running shoes are not only stylish, but they also feature one-of-a-kind cushioning. On’s signature CloudTec technology compresses both horizontally and vertically while you move, which helps to reduce muscle fatigue.
Women’s On Cloudmonster shoes also feature On’s powerful Speedboard technology. This produces soft landings and explosive take-offs for maximum energy return. It’s a unique experience that feels akin to walking on clouds. You’ll stay comfy and cushioned, no matter how long you have to stand for.
On Cloudmonster shoes feature a unique design that is made to propel you forward. The bold shape will bring a burst of style to your everyday look. The easy step-in makes them ideal for rushed mornings, and the soft sock liners will help keep you fresh all day.
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Women’s New Balance Fresh Foam X 1080v12
The New Balance Fresh Foam X 1080v12 is another stylish option for standing on concrete for long hours. These running shoes feature Fresh Foam X midsoles, which deliver incredible cushioning and comfort. To fine-tune this comfort, pressure mapping data informs whether the underfoot cushioning and flex zones are positioned. The wider areas of the midsoles have more foam, while the narrower points have increased flexibility.
Women’s New Balance Fresh Foam X 1080v12 shoes are designed in a bootie silhouette that hugs the feet for a snug, supportive fit. The uppers are constructed with the brand’s Hypoknit material, which provides ample stretch and support.
This second-skin feel is ideal for standing on hard surfaces. You get plenty of cushioning without any bulk to weigh you down. The no-sew overlays add to the lightweight feel while also providing breathability.
Another feature that makes these New Balance shoes ideal for standing on concrete all day is the rubber outsoles. Featuring blown rubber at the forefeet, they provide superior rebound. This helps protect you from shin splints and stress fractures. These sturdy outsoles also ensure you have plenty of traction and grip.
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Women’s Saucony Triumph 19
Our final pick for the best women’s shoes for standing on concrete for long hours is the Saucony Triumph 19. These running shoes feature PWRRUN cushioning for the softest underfoot feel. They’re also very forgiving on tired legs, making them ideal for prolonged standing. They’re lightweight and springy for a soft and plush fit.
Women’s Saucony Triumph 19 shoes feature top soles for added comfort closer to the feet. They also incorporate the brand’s Formfit technology, which hugs the feet in 3D comfort. This offers a personalized fit that provides the comfort you need to get through the day.
The uppers of these comfy shoes are crafted from engineered mono-mesh for enhanced breathability. Your feet will feel fresh, and the shoes, lightweight. The articulated eye-rows also offer a more adaptive fit.
These stylish sneakers also feature XT-900 outsoles. Made from premium carbon rubber, they offer exceptional traction and durability.
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Best Shoes for Walking on Concrete All Day
Asics GEL Kayano 29
The Asics GEL Kayano 29 is incredibly lightweight and offers premium protection and stability. These running shoes are ideal for walking on concrete all day, thanks to the plush comfort they provide. The midsoles feature FF Blast Plus cushioning, which creates softer landings and more energized take-offs.
Asics Gel Kayano 29 shoes also feature the brand’s Litetruss technology. This foam guard is stiffer than most to protect your feet from excessive compression. It also helps prevent your feet from rolling too far inward as you move. GEL technology adds extra cushioning at each shoe’s rear and forefoot. It also reduces impact and allows for smoother transitions for increased comfort.
With at least 75% of the uppers being made from recycled materials, Asics Gel Kayano 29 shoes are an environmentally-conscious choice. They also feature reflective details to enhance your visibility at night.
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Best Shoes for Working on Concrete Floors
Nike Air Zoom Vomero 16
The Nike Air Zoom Vomero 16 offers responsive cushioning with a pop of energy. These training shoes also make the ideal work shoes for concrete floors. They’re lightweight, stretchy, and well-ventilated. They also offer the right amount of support. The responsive ZoomX foam cushioning provides a smooth step and a snappy feel every time you push off.
Nike Air Zoom Vomero 16 shoes are also incredibly supportive. At the midfoot of each shoe, a band works with the laces to provide a snug, secure fit. At the heels, special clips help keep you steady on uneven surfaces for added support.
The uppers of these comfortable shoes are crafted from breathable mesh. This gives you plenty of ventilation, which helps to keep your feet cool during long hours at work.
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Final Notes
The hardness of concrete floors makes anyone walking, standing, or working on them susceptible to fatigue and injury. That’s why it’s so important to find comfortable shoes that can cushion and protect your feet. And now, doing so doesn’t have to feel like a chore. With our handy list, it’s easy to find a pair that suits your individual needs.
Road Runner Sports has everything you need to enjoy a smooth and supportive ride. Visit us in-store to try on the shoes you’ve been eyeing, or order them online for convenience.
Members of our VIP Family can try any pair risk-free for 90 days! Don’t miss out on our unmatched selection of the best shoes for concrete floors.