Hospitality - Your Footwear Guide
In the bustling world of hospitality, where every step holds the promise of seamless service and impeccable experiences, the significance of proper footwear cannot be overstated. From the elegant corridors of upscale hotels to the dynamic kitchens of bustling restaurants, the right pair of shoes serves as a foundation for both comfort and professionalism. Beyond mere aesthetics, footwear in this industry is a vital element ensuring safety, support, and endurance for those who tirelessly navigate through long shifts and varied terrains. Whether gliding across polished floors or swiftly maneuvering through crowded spaces, the right footwear is not just a choice but a necessity, safeguarding against potential hazards and enhancing performance in the demanding realm of hospitality.
Chef / Kitchen Shoes
To ensure you can remain focused on creating amazing meals, and not on your sore feet, we have put together a great selection of footwear that is perfect for the kitchen. First and foremost, we need to keep you on your feet by providing footwear that is highly slip resistant. Although nothing is guaranteed to “never slip”, the models suggested below have outsoles made of slip resistant materials with tread patterns that help channel water allowing for maximum surface contact. Many of these styles also feature water resistant uppers and smooth uppers that are easy to wipe off and keep clean. This selection of footwear also includes many clog / slip on styles which are often desired by those spending long hours in the kitchen. The clog styles provide nice support for standing for long periods of times while easily allowing you to pull your foot of the shoe to allow you to stretch your foot muscles while working. If you are more active on your feet and are in and out of the kitchen all day, you may prefer a lace up style that fits more securely to your foot and is more adjustable. There are also more width fittings available in the lace up models.
Serving Staff / Hosting Shoes
Our great selection of footwear for the hostesses and serving staff provide the necessary fit, comfort and style needed to look great and perform even better. These shoes possess the same slip resistant qualities that allow you to both comfortably and safely enter the cooking area while offering a little more style. We have also included some lace up models for those who need a little more support on the job. Many of these styles also offer waterproof/spill protection.
Our aim is to make it easier for you to choose your perfect footwear. Choose your profession below, and happy shopping! We Fit You!
Frequently asked questions
How do I get a catalog?
We use many different vendors. To browse our online catalogs, please click here.
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Simply enter your email address in the "Sign Up for Our Newsletter" field, located in the footer of any page of the website, and click "Sign Up".
What shipping methods are available?
Orders ship via our preferred carrier UPS.
What payment methods are available?
We accept credit cards online (Visa, MasterCard, Discover and American Express) and cash or company check in store.
Do you have sample?
We have 2 large sample showrooms with a large variety of samples.
Frequently Asked Questions:
What is better, a lace up or slip-on shoe?
Slip on shoes allow you remove your foot while standing and stretch your foot muscles. This is handy when standing in place for long periods of time. Many slip-on styles (like the Birkenstock styles) offer amazing under foot support for standing. Lace-up styles provide a more secure fit if you are more active on the job. Someone running in and out of the kitchen may prefer a lace up style that reduces the risk of the shoes falling off causing an injury. Slip-ons with smooth uppers are also easier to keep clean as they can easily be wiped off where with lace up styles that is more difficult.
What makes an outsole slip resistant?
When you see “slip resistant” a shoe, that means they have passed testing to certify they are slip resistant in wet conditions. When you look at the tread and grooves you will likely see hexagons, circles or another shape/pattern that allows water to escape. Slip-resistant shoes typically have small groves throughout the sole that further help keep water out from under your shoes, maintaining maximum surface contact between the shoe and the ground. Remember, even the best outsoles can slip under the wrong conditions. Be careful and take short strides in the kitchen.
Will my shoes be waterproof forever?
It is important to regularly treat waterproof leathers with care products like mink oil to maintain the level water resistance as well as keep the leather soft, supple and moisturized.
My feet are sore no matter what shoes I wear. What should I do?
Being on your feet all day can make anyone’s feet sore. They key is cushioning and arch support. Make sure you change out your footwear regularly. Alternate between multiple pairs of shoes to give them a chance to “bounce back” after a long day. The cushioning in shoes decreases over time and use. Replace your shoes every 12-18 months. Consider replacing your insoles at least every 6 months. There are some great supportive replacement insoles available. Ask us if you don’t know which one is best for you.