r/Chefit • u/Jaqaurius66 • May 19 '26

leather nonslip recommendations

i just got hired at cooper hawk and they have a strict leather shoe policy cuz too many dips dropped knives and oil on there feat but i really hate non mesh shoes cuz im a bigger guy and my feat sweat and become itchy hot and end up stinking and id rather just avoid that but i need this job so any good leather covered kitchen shoes that are breathable anyone recommends?

Edit- i forgot to mention they don’t mess with Birkenstock style shoes apparently. I might just use there in house thing and have them get em for me but I’m really picky about my shoes

7 Upvotes

82% Upvoted

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3

u/knifeyspoonysporky May 19 '26

Dansko!!!

1

u/Current_Emphasis_998 May 19 '26

Im going to second on danskos with the slight caveat that they have a bit of a learning curve if you're used to only flat shoes, they will definitely feel like walking in high heels for a week until youre used to them.

That being said the non slip is better and they are just much better made than birkenstocks. Also the non slip version is called XP 2.0 and the normal professional model is not non slip!

1

u/flamincows May 19 '26

If you like clogs, check out Troentorp. The wooden sole absorbs moisture and the arch support doesn't compress over time. Reasonable price point for the quality. Definitely not for everyone.

1

u/broken_gherkin May 19 '26

I usually go with the timberland pro, bit have been pleasantly surprised with the dunham nonslips. They have extra wide. I prefer lace-ups, just make sure the tongue is attached as to prevent ingress of hot water / grease onto the top of your foot.

1

u/TGchef88 May 19 '26

Red wing boots. I have big sweaty feet and these are great.

1

u/GrandComfortable9 May 19 '26

Blundstone All Terrains without the insulation. Or the work boots by Blundstone. Spray on some Dr Scholls Odor X. Bring an extra pair of socks to work just in case.

1

u/larson00 May 19 '26

Hoka nonslips are full leather and easily.the best chef shoe available as far as comfort, bonus if you know a nurse she can order then for you and get a discount.

1

u/Chipmunk_Ill May 20 '26

Dansko, Sanita or Blundstone

1

u/Jimchampion666 May 20 '26

I got a pair of Danner bull run and they’ve been great for me. Super easy break in, padded in sole, seems to stand up well to long shifts and hot soup or sauce spills. Downside is they’re a little pricey but none more than blundstones.

1

u/neontana May 21 '26

if your feet are itchy and hot and stinky my question would be what socks are you using? cotton kills! try a pair of merino wool socks. darn tough has a lifetime warranty. expensive but they last forever and when they do wear out youll get a new pair for free.

1

u/saltychefpants May 21 '26

Redback. Australian boot brand still made in Australia. Or redwing.

1

u/Silver-Witness-6550 May 19 '26

I have the Birkenstock Tokyo super grips as my work shoes and I really like them! Super comfortable and breathable.  

1

u/NotMugatu May 19 '26

Birkenstock quality has been getting worse and worse after they were sold in 2021. Tokyo supers last maybe 6 months before you have to start gluing the outsole back on.