Get A Grip! Top 10 Non-Slip Shoes For Work

You may have noticed that many Wonolo jobs, especially those in food prep, require non-slip shoes. And, if you’re considering investing in non-slip shoes to make sure you’re always ready for the gig, we’ve put together some information about what goes into a non-slip shoe, as well as some of the best purchase options, to help you get a grip on your next Wonolo job.

What Makes A Shoe “Non-Slip”?

While many people consider a simple pair of rubber-soled sneakers to be non-slip shoes, there are specific characteristics that make a pair of shoes truly “non-slip.” Primary among them is a sole that is made of softer rubber, designed to offer more floor grip when confronted with moisture, grease, or oil. That distinction is important, as most tennis or basketball shoes offer rubber soles that are made to grip on dry surfaces, not wet ones.

In addition to a softer rubber sole, non-slip shoes also provide an open tread pattern that enhances grip by channelling moisture out from under your shoe. While the closed tread pattern found on many tennis and basketball shoes does help provide grip in lateral movement, it can actually trap moisture under the shoe and that can form a barrier between your shoe and the floor and, like a hydroplaning car, actually cause slips.

Finally, many non-slip shoes are made specifically for work environments, and therefore offer greater comfort and shock absorption when you’re on your feet for long periods, as well as moisture resistant qualities to keep your feet dry when your work environment might be wet.

What’s The Best Non-Slip Shoe For You?

Since everyone has different needs, budgets, and feet, we’ve made a list of some of the best options for men’s, women’s, and unisex non-slip shoes. The list includes slip-ons, clogs, and lace-ups, as well as work-specific and casual styles that can also double as work shoes. And, if you do choose to order a pair online for a Wonolo job, remember to allow time for them to be delivered before the gig.

Men’s

SafeTStep Men’s Slip Resistant Kick

Oil resistant, slip resistant and available in wide sizes, the SafeTStep Kick offers a choice of canvas or leather uppers for the same low price. And, with a lace-up closure, the SafeTStep Kick looks great when you’re kicking it around town too.

Available from Payless Shoe Source

Skechers for Work Men’s Cottonwood Goddard Twin Gore Slip Resistant Slip On

Want a pair of non-slip work shoes that you can wear to the office and out on the town? Then then the Cottonwood Goddard Twin is the shoe for you. A slip on work shoe during the day, with a relaxed fit, ATSM standard flexible rubber outsole, and padded ankle for comfort, the Skechers for Work Goddard Twin also features casual, loafer styling, leather uppers and detailed stitching that will look good in the boardroom or at your corner bar.

Available from Zappos

Merrell SureGrip Jungle Moc SG Black Casual Slip Resistant Work Shoe

Though better known for their rugged outdoor shoes, Merrell’s Men’s Jungle Leather Slip-On puts the Merrell mark on an everyday, non-slip work shoe. A slip on moccasin design made with sturdy, waterproof leather uppers and a wide channel SureGrip tread, the Jungle Moc is built for all-day comfort and long-lasting quality.

Available from Amazon

Skechers for Work Men’s Rockland Systemic Slip Resistant Lace-Up Shoe

The Skechers for Work Men’s Rockland Systemic shoe offers a great combination of style and function. With a wide, soft, ATSM-standard rubber outsole for superior traction in any conditions and Skechers’ signature lightweight, cushioned insole, Rockland Systemic is designed for comfortable wear during long hours on the job. Add in the leather uppers, bicycle-seamed toe and lace-up closure, and you’ve got a nice look for casual wear too.

Available from Amazon

Women’s

AVIA Women’s Avi Union Service Shoe

A lightweight shoe made to keep your feet comfortable while you’re on the job or out and about, the AVIA Women’s Avi Union shoe offers stability and superior grip. Available in several color options, the AVI Union also offers moisture and stain resistance at a great price.

Available from Amazon

Skechers Work Ghenter

The Skechers Work Ghenter women’s shoe offers the lightweight and air-cushioned memory-foam sole that Skechers is known for in a comfortable work shoe. With mesh fabric uppers to help keep your feet cool, rubber traction outsole and a lace-up closure for a sure fit, the Skechers Work Ghenter offers comfort and support, at work or on the go.

Available from Zappos

Dr. Scholl’s Women’s Work Valor Shoe

Featuring wide, oil- and slip-resistant Lock Step Outsole, Dr. Scholl’s Work Valor shoes are made to keep you on your feet when you’re on the job. And, with premium leather uppers, a round toe, and molded, cushioned footbed, the Valor shoe offers plenty of support and stability to keep your feet comfortable all day.

Available from Amazon

Reebok Work Jorie

Though better known for their fitness and casual shoes, the women’s Reebok Work Jorie is ready for hard work with a SureGrip rubber outsole that offers superior traction in moisture and oil, as well as resistance to chemicals, heat, abrasions and metal chips. And, with leather uppers, nylon mesh lining for breathability and a cushioned, EVA footbed, the Reebok Work Jorie will keep the jump in your step while you’re on the job.

Available from Zappos

Unisex

VANGELO Professional Slip Resistant Clog Unisex Work Shoe

Professional grade clogs made for men or women, the VANGELO Slip Resistant Clog Work Shoe is ATSM-certified and recommended by the American Podiatric Medical Association. Washable inside and out with removable insoles and an EVA foam body, the VANGELO clog offers a solid combination of comfort, grip and value.

Available from Walmart

Birkenstock Professional Unisex Profi Birki Slip Resistant Work Shoe

Who says you can’t wear your Birkenstocks to work? Though best known for their cork footbed sandals and clogs, Birkenstock’s Profi Birki offers an anti-slip sole and a synthetic insole that molds to the shape of your foot. Plus, they’re available in blue or black, and, with the insole removed, you can even wash them in the dishwasher.

Available from Amazon

Ready to get started with Wonolo?

Download the app today and work a job tomorrow. Already have the app? Find jobs near you and start earning.