How to Choose the Best Bartending Shoes For You

Bartenders are always on the move, and if you have ever worked a shift behind the bar, you probably know the feeling… 

Quite often not a minute goes by when you’re not on your feet.

This goes to show that having the right shoes for the job can be the difference between a fun and easy shift… or a hellish, and in some cases, painful few hours.

Regardless, we don’t want anyone to learn about the importance of good, comfortable shoes the hard way. As a result, we’ve done some research and came up with the Top 5 brands for bartending shoes, as well as some suggestions for each of these brands.

Best Bartending Shoes Review

One thing that is universally agreed upon in the bartending world is that you need shoes that fit. Being constantly on the run, any extra room for your feet to move around in your shoes will have a compounding effect on the pain you feel after a long shift. 

Statistics show that 80% of men wear shoes that don’t fit, and with women it’s up to 90%. When you boil it down, especially at your work, there should be only two shoe sizes – right and wrong. 

Now for the main event..

Best All-Around Bartending Shoe: Snibbs

Snibbs is the new kid on the block, but in 2022 they came out swinging with what we consider the best bartending shoe now on the market.

Most bartending shoes as you will see are either stylish and unpractical, or functional but very ugly. Snibbs on the other hand built a shoe that is as good as any other work shoe on the market, but is also something that you wouldn’t find yourself embarrassed to wear around town.

With its wide toe box, custom insoles, and ergonomic design, it is probably also the most comfortable bartending shoe on the market.

That’s why Snibbs is our clear winner for best bartending shoe on the market right now.

Durable and classic: Birkenstock

Love ‘em or hate ‘em, you can’t deny that Birkenstock’s deliver. Although the clog look may lead to some odd looks when worn in public, when behind the bar these shoes are a perfect mix of comfort and utility.

Pro tip: When buying Birkenstock shoes use in a bar, make sure you are buying their “hospitality” line. Although some of their more stylish looks may just work in a kitchen setting, their hospitality focused shoes are affordable, non-slip, and safe.

A storied tradition finally available direct to the public: Sanita

Perhaps the shoe on our list with the most storied history, Sanita has been making world-famous clogs for over 100 years. But, for much of that time you were unable to actually buy their shoes. That’s because they were the manufacturers of Dansko’s hospitality shoes (which used to be on our list in years prior. But, to save money, Dansko moved their manufacturing to China, thus splitting away from Sanita who produces their shoes in Europe.

Long story short, Sanita now sells their world famous shoes direct to consumers while we have received many reports that Dansko shoes just aren’t up to par anymore. So, whether you were a major Dansko fan or love a high-quality clog, we suggest checking out Sanita’s professional line.

Cheap bartending shoes you can get in a hurry: Crocs

Oh boy. The notorious Crocs. They will never not be vilified, and that pretty much comes with the territory. You know you’ll most likely have to be dodging insults if you walk outside with these bad boys on. What you might not have known is how great they can be for working behind the bar. They are light, comfy, and slip-resistant—as well as being extremely cheap. So aside from the look (and the lack of good airflow to your feet when wearing them) these are actually great shoes for bartending.

A boot that fits like a shoe: Dr. Martens

The world-famous Dr. Martens. Combining style with practicality, they’ve been doing it right for over 60 years. When it comes to utilizing their shoes in the bartender workplace, they push all the right buttons. We understand their look and price are not for everyone, but those who choose them will not be disappointed.

The Bottom Line

In the bustling world of bartending, the right shoes are more than just a fashion statement—they’re a lifeline. Prioritizing comfort, support, and durability will ensure you’re ready for every shift, from the first pour to the last call. Choose wisely, and your feet will thank you.