Post Punk Kitchen Forum

I am starting a p/t job in a restaurant in a few months (assisting the baker/mgr- so I will mostly be in the kitchen) and I know I am going to need shoes that are safe for the kitchen. It's my first time so I have no idea how much these should cost. I don't want to spend too much since it's only going to be twice a week, but I also don't want to get a pair that will fall apart. Any advice is greatly appreciated, thanks rad ppk family!

I have serious back issues, so I have no choice but to get good shoes. They make a difference! Maybe more drastic for people with health issues, but don't skimp. Get comfy, supportive shoes so you aren't in pain or uncomfortable.

I don't have any advice beyond that though. I've had a horrid time finding vegan shoes that work for me.

vegan danskos?

something non-skid is probably most important. the dreaded crocs might be the best (i know people love to hate them, but if you have wide feet or don't have too much money to spend, they are a decent option)- i have found the fake crocs are terribly slippery, btw.
i used to wear kitchen shoes when i was teaching and had to be on my feet for 8+ hours a day, they were awesome, but that was back in just-beginning-vegan days and i couldn't find anything workable that was vegan, so ended up with non-vegan ones. sadface.

I can second the thing about buying something proper when you're on your feet all day. I am on my feet all day, and if I wear shitty shoes, my entire back and legs just feel like total crepe by the end of the day. Do yourself a favor and buy something that's supportive and comfortable, because your back will thank you.

If you don't have much money, and have narrow feet, I've bought vegan work shoes at Payless. The ones I've bought have actually held up pretty well... you just have to spend some time poking and prodding at what's available in the store.

There are crocs made specifically for this purpose. You might want to look into them.

I bought a pair of the kitchen crocs. They don't have those holes or whatever that usual crocs have. They were around $30 on Amazon.

I don't work in a professional kitchen, but I dropped a food processor blade on my foot last year and ended up needing surgery so now I'm paranoid and wear my kitchen shoes all of the time. My feet do get a bit sweaty in them after wearing them for a long time though.

I second the payless rec. they're called safeTstep and if you don't see them in store, you can order them online for free instore delivery and try them on before you leave.

Thank you everyone. I will try payless.