Sitting all day while working can be detrimental to your health, and standing desks or sit to stand converter desks are a great option to alleviate this. However, using a standing desk for long periods of time can lead to discomfort or unforeseen health issues if not done properly and not done with the right gear. This is why having the best shoes for standing at your standing desk is so critical.
Standing desks allow you to stand on your feet and stay mobile while you carry out all your daily activities. This increased activity at work will be putting your feet through considerably more stress in the process than if you were simply sitting all day at a computer. Fortunately, in a study conducted by Dr. Thomas Waters and Dr. Robert Dick in rehabilitative nursing journal (nurses are perpetual standers) that details the negative impacts of standing for long periods of time, their conclusions show that proper intervention and gear (shoes, floor mats, etc.) can reduces the risks associated with standing for too long.
Choosing the best shoes for standing at your desk is an important start to staying healthy and getting the most out of your standing desk experience.
Why are good shoes so important for standing all day at a standing desk?
If you search the web for best type of shoe to stand all day you get a variety of expert opinions. There is a lot of research on what works best for our feet and in what environments and the conclusions range from strong supporting shoes for standing, adding insole support, or simply barefoot. Everyone’s feet and comfort levels are different and ultimately the shoe that works best for you will be the most beneficial. This may require some trial and error, and a good understanding of what goes into a good shoe and proper support for our bodies.
If you are using a standing desk, the importance of picking the best shoes can’t be undermined especially when it comes to standing for a long time. Good supportive shoes serve as the interface between your feet and the ground which helps reduce the load of work placed on your legs and joints. If you don’t have the right support, you will quickly find yourself leaning over one leg when tired or using incorrect posture, and not taking a brief walk when you need to stretch out your muscles. The last thing we want is for your standing desk experience to become a negative one or lead to injury.
What to look for when choosing the best shoes for standing desk
Unlike the conventional approach to fashion, your choice of shoe here has nothing to do with what fits your style. The most important factor to consider here is the comfort that comes with the pair of shoes you choose. Let’s take a look at three factors to consider before choosing a good standing desk shoe:
- The right size – This is obvious but often overlooked – regardless of every other thing you are planning to consider, this factor comes first. You need to make sure the shoe you are about to choose is your actual shoe size in order for you to get the most out of your shoes and comfort. Many people are actually wearing shoes that are a size too big or one size too small. Lastly, ensure that you have plenty of room for your toes to move around more and that your shoe isn’t uncomfortably tight
- Strong soles and shock absorption. Whether you are going to add insoles or not, you want to ensure that your shoe of choice comes with a good sole to absorb the stress of standing for long periods. Many shoes come with a wide variety of technology for shock absorbing soles.
- Good arch support – you need to also make sure the shoe you are about to choose has good arch support for your type of foot. A shoe with good arch support helps maintain the health of the feet and improve standing balance.
When it comes to choosing the best shoe for standing desks the shoe that works best is ultimately up to the user. There are great options and best selling shoes below, however, if you have a good pair of running shoes you like or prefer to wear minimalist shoes at your standing desk, that is perfectly fine if it works for you. In the end, the right comfort, support, and stability that works best for you will make the shoes you wear while working at a standing desk the best experience for you.
The Best Shoes for Standing Desks
If sneakers are your choice of work shoe here some best selling Running Shoe options:
- Nike Zoom Fly
The Nike Zoom Fly is a blend of everything you need for standing at a standing desk: comfort, support, and stability. The Zoom Fly has a dense, reactive, and durable sole for any type of activity. Nike is well known brand and brings a variety of great shoes to wear but if you plan on being on your feet while standing at work or more active, the Zoom Fly series is a great option.
- Brooks Ghost 13
Brooks Ghost shoes are a regular at the top of “Best Running Shoe” lists across the internet, and the Brooks Ghost 13 is the most recent version of this excellent shoe. Designed for the runner in mind, this shoe is excellent for an active office worker using a standing desk. The Ghost 13 is lightweight and breathable while still providing excellent support and style. - Asics Gel-DS Trainer 25
Asics has long been a go to brand for runners, and the GEL-DS Trainer 25 is a great option to pair with your standing desk. Asics GEL-DS Trainer 25s offer a neutral, cushioned running shoe with a solid midsole that is great for overpronators. - Mizuno Wave Inspire 16
The Mizuno Wave Inspire is great for those who want to feel some pep in their step. This lightweight and responsive soled shoe is incredibly comfortable and stable. The Mizuno Wave Inspire ranks well for men and women and frequently reviews as a “best stability shoe” on Amazon. - Solomon speedcross 5
The Solomon Speedcross 5 Trainer is an excellent trail and running shoe that provides the everyday office work great support and traction while standing at your standing desk. The comfort and durability of the high arches and lug sole will give you the stability you need to stand all day and allow for easy transition outside for any type of activity.
If you are going for a more professional look here are the best office shoes (according to prevention.com)
- Dansko Professional Clog
The Dansko Professional Clog is the go to shoe for business professionals looking for a classic look while also maintaining great comfort and stability at your standing desk. The Dansko Professional Clog is available in a variety of colors to suit any type of working professional from doctor and lawyers to chefs, clerks, and students. - Naturalizer Marianne Slip On
The Naturalizer Marianne Slip On is a luxury quality slip on for all occasions. If you are looking for a casual yet comfortable and quality looking shoe for your standing desk, the Marianne Slip On will not disappoint. The Marianne is available in a variety of colors and fits, and is great for not only working class but also hobbyists and the energetic alike. - Sketchers Sure Track trickle slip resistant Shoe
The Sketchers Sure Track is a durable and rugged working shoe that provides all day comfort and stability for professionals who spend long hours on their feet. The smooth leather upper with lace up front, FlexSole shock absorbing flexible lightweight midsole, and emory Foam™ cushioned comfort insole make the Sketchers Sure Track a great shoe for standing desks. - Dove Lites Slip On
