The job of a massage therapist is to relieve a client’s stress and increase their relaxation through touch. This is done by massaging the muscles and the body’s soft tissues. A massage therapist must stand for an hour or two to do the task effectively. It is therefore essential for her to wear the right type of footwear throughout the length of her service. Therefore, we will review 10 of the best shoes for a massage therapist you can buy right now so you can better decide which one allows you to work your best as a skilled massage therapist.
If you are a massage therapist, wearing a comfortable and lightweight pair will help absorb shock and pressure on your feet. Skipping on a great pair of sneakers may lead to foot fatigue and painful toes.
Jump immediately to the FAQ section
Best Shoes For a Massage Therapist
Crocs Unisex Specialist Vent Work Clog
The Crocs unisex specialist vent work clog is perfect for a massage therapist because they are comfortable and have decent ventilation around the toe box for increased airflow. This ventilation also drains liquid and debris should it come your way.
This clog has a thicker construction at the toe and metatarsal area, unlike Crocs’ previous models. You’ll have increased arch support so you can work with your client for longer hours.
The footbeds are contoured on this clog to soothe your every step. The higher heels meet workplace standards and protect your feet as you work. The pair has a fully molded design which makes it easy to clean with just soap and water.
This clog has the iconic Croslite foam cushioning, which offers all-day comfort and support so you can focus more on your client than worrying about foot pain.
Crocs Bistro Clog for Men and Women
If you’re still on the fence about which shoe to buy, allow us to introduce you to another pair from Crocs. The Bistro clog is made specifically for people who work in the service industry like healthcare, restaurants, and the like.
Unsurprisingly, these clogs also work well with massage therapists due to its lightweight quality and the support it gives you as you work with your clients throughout the day. A massage therapist who stands all day will appreciate its slip-resistant treads that firmly put the feet in place as you work.
The clogs are 100% synthetic and have an enclosed toe design. You should be able to wear this all day and not hurt your feet because the contoured footbeds are really comfortable.
Lastly, it ’s available for both men and women.
SEEKWAY Quick-Dry Water Shoes for Men and Women
The SEEKWAY quick-dry water shoes is not just for people with an active lifestyle. The qualities of this footwear also work well with people who stand for long hours on the job making this one of our picks for the best shoes you can buy if you’re a massage therapist.
The thick rubber soles and toe cap provide great cushioning and protect your feet from sharp objects.
The shoe also has an elastic vamp and the fit snugs on your feet comfortably. Since the SEEKWAY shoes are designed to be breathable, they’ll keep your feet cool and dry all day so you can enjoy working at the massage center without worrying about your feet feeling sweaty, damp, or fatigued.
Fitville Extra Wide Walking Shoes for Men and Women
The Fitville walking shoes for men and women have an extra-wide toe box that prevents the “painful feet” you usually associate with narrow sneakers.
The high instep and toe box allows full freedom of movement. This is essential when you work in a massage center as your actions have to be precise for a relaxed experience for both you and your clients.
The cushion is shock-absorbing which reduces pressure as you stand all day. The sneaker also has a dual-density sole to give you more support. This is especially helpful for therapists with plantar fasciitis or similar foot conditions.
Lastly, the sneakers are available for both men and women so if your colleagues like to partner it up, you can definitely go for it.
Skechers Women’s Ultra Flex – Harmonious Sneaker
The Skechers ultra flex harmonious sneaker for women is great footwear for female massage therapists. It has a sleek and sporty style that is both lightweight and flexible.
The Harmonious Sneaker is slip-on for an easy on/off experience. It has a soft woven sketch-knit upper to keep your feet cool and dry all day. Like other Skechers footwear, this one uses an air-cooled memory foam insole and a comfortable midsole to ensure your feet stays comfortable even if you have a long list of clients waiting in line.
We also liked this shoe because Skechers offers the Ultra Flex Harmonious in 7 different colorways. You can select which style best fits your personality and style without it breaking your wallet.
It has a high customer review on Amazon so this sneaker is definitely worth a look for female massage therapists.
Ryka Women’s Devotion PLUS 3 Walking Shoe
Like the Ultra Flex Harmonious sneaker from Skechers, the Ryka Devotion Plus 3 walking shoe offers a lot of colors to choose from. The Devotion plus 3 is available in 8 color choices which you’ll definitely love.
Now enough about the aesthetics, the sneaker utilizes a breathable mesh and iridescent flex gear materials to make sure your feet are dry even as you wear them all day. This walking shoe has a padded tongue and collar for added comfort as well as a lace-up closure to make it easy for you to wear it and take it off.
The responsive cushioning makes this footwear an exceptional work shoe for female therapists as it provides them with comfort that will last them throughout the hectic day.
The shoe is engineered for a female’s unique foot shape, muscle, movement, and built so this one definitely stands out.
Slow Man Women’s Walking Shoes
If you find it hard to decide which color of sneakers you’ll like from Skechers and Ryka, wait till you find out about Slow Man. This shoe manufacturer offers more than 15 different colors and styles that will fit just about everyone.
It has almost a hundred thousand customer reviews on Amazon and most of them are positive. It achieves this feat because it is super lightweight and flexible almost as if you’re wearing socks. This gives you absolute freedom in your movements and provides you with comfort all day.
This is especially important for therapists as any sudden movement may alter the outcome of your work with your clients. It’s an easy slip-on shoe that female massage therapists will surely enjoy wearing at work.
Fila Men’s Memory Workshift Slip Resistant Work Shoe
For male massage therapists, the Fila memory work shift sneakers are the perfect fit for you. Its great slip resistance ensures you are at low risk of accidental slips and injuries.
The outsole is tested in accordance with applicable industry standards so these sneakers work great in any type of setting, even in a massage center. Fila utilizes a memory foam sock liner in the midsole to add comfort to your feet as you work on ensuring your client is relaxed and comfortable.
There are perforations in the upper of the memory work shift for breathability.
Finally, the front has a lace-up closure for a more relaxed fit.
Avia Men’s Avi-Union II Non-Slip Shoes
The Avia Men’s Avi-Union II non-slip pair of shoes is made from 100% synthetic material and has a durable rubber outsole for great traction and grip on any floor surface. It has unique tread patterns on the outsole to give its signature slip-resistance and to secure your footing wherever you go.
The upper has an easy to secure Velcro closure that is highly adjustable. This is ideal for people who find it hard to tie laces.
It’s the perfect footwear for service personnel and for specialized jobs such as that of a massage therapist. As you may know, this noble profession requires one to be on his feet for long periods of time.
Finally, the Avia pair also works great as an everyday walking shoe. Talk about versatility!
STQ Slip-on Walking Shoes for Women
The STQ Slip-on walking shoe for women has a lot of colorways to choose from like the other female sneakers we have on this list. What makes these walking shoes different from the rest though is that the design of this shoe has an elastic cuff that makes it convenient for you to just put it on/off whenever you need to.
It is a great footwear for female massage therapists because it is lightweight and provides good stretch. This makes any movement comfortable.
Additionally, the outsole is made from high-quality rubber material and provides slip resistance. The STQ Slip-on has great traction and grip so you won’t accidentally fall while working with your clients.
It is perfect for all-day wear and matches all kinds of uniforms and outfits.
Best shoes for a Massage Therapist explained (video)
Best Shoes For a Massage Therapist Buying Guide
Comfort
The first thing you have to look for when buying a shoe is the comfort level it provides. A shoe that gives you comfort radically reduces foot fatigue and your overall stress level. It also helps you get your job done as a massage therapist.
Make sure the fit is comfortable for you and that you have ample arch support. This way, your shoe can adequately distribute the pressure on your feet and you can work more freely.
Slip Resistance
All the shoes we have on this list have certain levels of slip resistance. It’s best to invest in one with proper traction and grip on any floor surface as this ensures you will not accidentally slip or fall while at work.
Slip-resistant footwear also protects your client from injuries as sudden movements may physically hurt them if you make an unnatural maneuver while massaging their body parts.
Related: Are Vans Non Slip / Slip-Resistant?
Value for Money
The prices of the sneakers we have on our list are competitive and shouldn’t hurt your wallet. The sneakers we recommended are versatile as they can be worn as casual shoes when you’re not at work.
Some shoes are available for both men and women so if you have a colleague or a partner, it’s possible to pair up your footwear.
Customer Reviews
When buying footwear, always consider what other people who bought it have to say. Take the time to read comments and view the rating of the product you’re interested in so you have a firm knowledge of its quality.
Take particular notice of negative feedbacks so you know what you’re getting into.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I wear running/training shoes at work as a massage therapist?
As a massage therapist, wearing lightweight shoes should be a priority. Although running and training shoes fit the criteria, they are usually not recommended for work. There are other better alternatives such as walking shoes or work shoes. These two offer more support and comfort.
How long does a massage therapist stand during a usual workday?
On average, a massage therapist typically works not more than 6 hours a day. A therapist must rest at least 10 minutes between client sessions not to overdo things that may negatively impact health.
How much does a massage therapist charge?
Massage service fees vary. Expect to pay in the neighborhood of $50-$150 dollars per hour for a massage.
Related Shoe guides
- Waterproof Safety Shoes & Safety Boots: How to keep dry feet !
- Best Jordan For Wide Feet
- Safety Shoes for Women – 10 tips to make the best choice
- How To Stretch Patent Leather Shoes
- Best Slippers for Sweaty Feet
- Best Shoes for Kung Fu
- Best Shoes for Surgeons
- Best Hoka Shoes for Beginners
- How to Stop Shoes from Squeaking with 7 simple tricks
- Best Shoes for Delivery Drivers
- Best Shoes for Hair Stylists
- Best Stripper Shoes
- Best Running Shoes for Peroneal Tendonitis
- Best Hoka Shoes for Women: a full guide
- Best Crossfit Shoes for Plantar Fasciitis
- Best Height-Increasing Shoes
- Best Hoka Shoes for Nurses
- Which Hoka Shoes are Best for Me
- Best Hoka Shoes for Walking
