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T here is a growing preference for athletic-style footwear among healthcare workers as well as food service/ restaurant workers and crew, who are on their feet non-stop. Warson's Sam Sproull indicates that the trend towards athletic styles here is "due to the need for all-day comfort, support, and durability in fast-paced environments." Lightweight construction in athletic styles helps reduce foot fatigue during long shis while slip-resistant outsoles are essential for traction on hospital floors. "Cushioned and responsive midsoles provide shock absorption for all-day comfort and breathable uppers keep feet cool and dry during long hours," notes Sproull. "Easy-to-clean uppers are necessary for some to maintain hygiene in medical settings. Finally, an athletic fit with flexibility allows for natural foot movements and agility." For these jobs that require hours of standing or walking, consumers "really need long-lasting comfort and support throughout the day to stave off heel pain, arch pain and general fatigue from those long shis," explain Alegria's Irene Chen and Emily Pierdinock-Hagen. To ensure lasting support, Alegria applied its comfort footbed tech into athletic style shoes in its ReBounce Collection that features a proprietary cork blended footbed so that the arch support underfoot is robust, even at the end of a long shi. e Alegria Fit Collection offers a wide toe box to accommodate the natural shape of the toes and swelling throughout the day from standing and walking. With the work environment in mind, many of the brand's athletic styles are paired with water-repellent LiquidShell technology so spills can easily roll off the upper "For nurses and healthcare workers, footwear is more than just a necessity—it's an endurance tool," says revere's Bourke. "e rise of athletic-inspired designs reflects the need for lightweight, cushioned, and slip-resistant shoes that can handle long shis. Shoes that cater to this category need to combine arch support, responsive cushioning, and durable outsoles, ensuring both function and fatigue-fighting comfort." In the hospitality sector, Bourke says, "Footwear must strike a balance between durability, slip resistance, and professional (and even fashionable) aesthetics. We're seeing a shi toward modern clogs and sleek, supportive sneakers that offer all-day comfort without compromising on style." Skechers sees nurses gravitating to its sneaker styles and is encouraging customers throughout the month of May to round up their in-store purchases at Skechers retail locations as a donation at checkout. ese contributions will support the American Nurses Foundation's programs and advancements in nursing. DC WORK CREW / GAVELER is throwback style is a fit for work crews, such as kitchen staff. It is slip- resistant, lightweight, cushioned and offers Electrical Hazard Protection. MSRP $85. HEALTHCARE & HOSPITALITY 24 • March/April 2025 sportstyle • sportstylemag.com FOOTWEAR

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