One of the biggest issues that face hospitality staff is our feet. We work eight to ten hours and then some on doubles.
If we’re on the floor on a long shift we can clock up some mileage, and if we’re behind the bar it’s sometimes wet, sticky and we’re constantly moving.
Unlike kitchen staff that wear Crocs purely for comfort, as I can’t think of any other reason why anyone would wear them other than trying to save their Virginity, front of house have to be presentable.
So Footwear, what’s the best unisex footwear to use on a long shift?
Converse
The Chuck Taylor All Star Classic sneakers are exactly that Classic.
Bartenders have been wearing them for 20 plus years.
Canvas makes them slightly waterproof and a strong rubber toe won’t stop a keg breaking your toes but will give you a little protection from your clumsy staff mates stepping on them. A very strong shoe, you can wear for years.
Price: $80
Vans
Vans classics are very similar to the Chucks, lightweight and comfortable for a long shift. They don’t have the toe cover but they make up for that with a more comfortable sole, also made out of canvas so they breathe well.
Price: $50
Doc Martens
The traditional Newton’s have been a favorite of mine for years, for a boot they are lightweight, comfortable, strong and will last a lifetime. They have also brought out the Rigal for only a little bit more $$$. For a boot they are very comfortable on a long shift.
Price: $160
Shoes for crews
Shoes for crew’s old school low riders are a great all-rounder. They are Comfortable, flexible and light. They also have a slip resistant sole, which makes them brilliant when you’re not on the slip mats. Coming in under $80 these are a great bar shoe.
Price: $80
Raben
If you’re looking for something cheap to get you through for six months or so, Raben make a Canvas low cut lace up sneaker so amazing they haven’t even named them. The RLL1’s sound more like a droid from Star Wars than a cheap Chinese shoe, if you’re after a brand name these are not the shoes your looking for. Otherwise a decent cheap shoe, if you understand they only have a lifespan of six months.
Price: $35
Tip: Halfway through the shift change your socks, it’s like starting a shift fresh.
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