How To Tell if Shoes Are Non-Slip

When you're on your feet all day—whether in a busy kitchen, a hospital hallway, or a slick warehouse floor—the last thing you want is to worry about slipping. Injuries from slips and falls are more than inconvenient—they can take you off the job entirely.

In fact, a study from the CDC found that employees who wore highly-rated slip-resistant shoes experienced a 67% reduction in slip-related injury claims. That’s a big deal—especially in industries like food service, healthcare, and manufacturing where non-slip footwear is often a job requirement.

So, how do you know if a shoe is non-slip? This guide walks you through the key features to look for, how to test traction, and why the right pair of shoes can make all the difference in your safety and your confidence on the job.

How To Identify Non-Slip Shoes

1. Read the Description

If you’re wondering how to tell if shoe is non slip, the first step is to read the product description carefully.

• Look for terms like “non-slip” or “slip-resistant” in the shoe’s name or description.
• These phrases usually indicate the shoe has been tested for traction and designed to reduce slips on wet or slick surfaces.
• Reputable brands only make this claim when the outsole truly meets industry standards.

The product description is often the clearest clue that a shoe is made to keep you on your feet.

2. Inspect the Sole

The material and shape of the outsole play a big role in how slip-resistant a shoe really is.

• Look for sturdy, slightly rounded soles made from polyurethane (PU) or ethylene vinyl acetate (EVA)—both are rubber alternatives known for durability and traction.
• A thicker outsole can mean better support and protection, especially for long hours on your feet.
• Not sure what it’s made of? Check the product description for outsole material details.

A thick, rubber-like sole is a strong sign your shoes are built to grip the ground and reduce slips.

3. Check the Tread

Asking yourself, “What do non-slip shoes look like on the bottom?” Flip the shoe over and take a good look at the tread.

• Slip-resistant shoes usually feature tightly packed patterns—think small hexagons, circles, or wave-like grooves.
• These shapes help move liquid away from the sole, improving traction on slick surfaces.
• The deeper and more detailed the tread, the more grip you’re likely to get.

A reliable tread design is a key feature of slip-resistant footwear and one of the easiest ways to tell if a shoe is built for safety.

4. Test the Shoes Yourself

Still asking yourself, “How do you know if a shoe is non-slip?” One of the best ways to find out is by testing them yourself.

• Walk on hard, slick surfaces like tile or polished concrete to feel how the shoe grips.
• If you're at home, carefully try stepping on a damp area to test traction.
• While you're at it, check for overall comfort—pay attention to the fit, support, and cushioning.

Take note of how secure and supported you feel because traction doesn’t mean much if the shoe isn’t wearable all day.

Non-Slip Shoes FAQ

Are you searching for more information on non-slip shoes? We have you covered with these answers to the most commonly asked questions about slip-resistant shoes.

How can you tell if shoes are non-slip?

One of the easiest ways to tell is by checking the outsole. Look for rubber or synthetic materials with a tread pattern designed for traction—features like grooves, lugs, or siping help grip wet or slick surfaces.

Still wondering, “How do you know if shoes are non-slip?” Check the product description. Brands often label their shoes as "non-slip" or "slip-resistant," and some even meet specific industry standards like ASTM or SATRA. Customer reviews can also offer insight into real-world performance.

What counts as non-slip shoes?

Non-slip shoes feature specially designed outsoles—typically rubber—with tread patterns that provide extra grip on slick surfaces. These shoes are often labeled “non-slip” or “slip-resistant” and are commonly worn in workplaces where spills and slick floors are a hazard.

You might be asking, “Are Jordans non-slip shoes?” While they offer solid traction for basketball courts, most aren’t tested or certified for slip resistance in work environments. Similarly, are Vans considered non-slip? Some styles offer good grip, but unless they’re marked as slip-resistant, they may not provide the traction you need on wet or oily surfaces.

What makes a shoe slip-resistant?

In short, a slip-resistant shoe should have a high-quality, rubber-like outsole with deep grooves that grip well on wet or oily surfaces. The tread’s grooves allow the shoe to grip the ground without trapping a wet substance beneath it, allowing you to feel safe all day without slipping and sliding.

What to look for in a non-slip shoe?

When shopping for non-slip shoes, there’s more to consider than just traction. Here are a few key features to keep in mind:

• Grip that works: Look for outsoles designed with specialized tread patterns to keep you steady on slick surfaces.
• Built to last: Daily wear takes a toll—choose shoes made with durable materials so you don’t have to replace them constantly.
• Dress-code friendly: Make sure the style fits your workplace requirements, especially if you need something professional-looking.
• Water resistance: If spills and slick floors are common, water-resistant materials can make a big difference in safety and cleanliness.
• Foot protection: Consider options with reinforced toes or added coverage if your job involves heavy equipment or sharp hazards.
• All-day comfort: Cushion, arch support, and shock absorption matter—especially when you’re on your feet for hours at a time.

The best non-slip shoes strike the balance between safety, durability, and comfort—so you can focus on the job, not your feet.

Is there a difference between non-slip and slip-resistant shoes?

When it comes to non-slip vs. slip-resistant shoes, the terms are often used interchangeably, but some brands may use one term over the other based on testing or marketing. Both types are designed to help reduce slips and falls, especially on slick or wet surfaces.

That said, the effectiveness often comes down to the details: look for rubber outsoles, grippy tread patterns, and multiple grooves to channel away moisture and increase traction. Whether labeled non-slip or slip-resistant, it’s the sole’s design that makes all the difference.

What is the difference between safety shoes and non-slip shoes?

Safety shoes and non-slip shoes serve distinct purposes in ensuring workplace safety. Safety shoes are designed to protect against various workplace hazards, including falling objects, sharp materials, electrical currents, and impacts. They often feature reinforced toe caps, puncture resistance, and may provide electrical hazard protection.

On the other hand, non-slip shoes focus solely on preventing slips and falls on slippery surfaces. They have specially designed rubber or similar soles with unique tread patterns for enhanced grip on wet, slick, or oily floors, promoting a stable work environment. Choose the appropriate footwear based on the specific safety needs of your workplace.

Why wear slip-resistant shoes?

Slip-resistant shoes are different from your typical shoe due to their rubber sole and tread patterns that can grip floors, even when walking on a wet surface. Though many companies may require their employees to wear non-slip shoes, that shouldn’t be the only reason you wear them. Non-slip work shoes are a safety measure and significantly reduce the risk of injury when walking on surfaces that can easily become slippery.

In a National Library of Medicine study where subjects wore slip-resistant shoes versus regular shoes, they saw a reduction in the rate of slipping by 37 percent, and the rate of falls resulting from a slip by 49 percent. Without slip-resistant shoes, you may be left vulnerable to workplace-related injuries that could put you out of work for days or even weeks.

Who should wear non-slip shoes?

Certain jobs come with slick floors, fast-paced environments, and safety hazards. Non-slip shoes help reduce the risk of slips, trips, and falls—keeping you steady on your feet. Here are some of the top professions where non-slip footwear is a must:

• Healthcare Workers: Hospitals and clinics often have slick, hard floors. Nurses, techs, and medical staff benefit from non-slip shoes that are easy to clean and offer long-lasting comfort during long shifts.
• Restaurant Staff: From food spills to wet kitchen floors, restaurant workers face slippery surfaces daily. Most employers require non-slip shoes to help prevent injuries, especially for those handling hot cookware or sharp utensils.
• Warehouse Employees: Warehouses can be high-risk zones for slips and falls. Non-slip, durable shoes with added foot protection are key for navigating busy floors with confidence.
• Delivery Drivers & Postal Workers: With constant movement in and out of vehicles and across all types of terrain, delivery pros need reliable traction. Slip-resistant shoes provide the grip needed to handle heavy loads safely.
• Cleaning Professionals: Cleaners and janitorial staff often work in wet or polished environments. Non-slip shoes improve stability and help reduce the risk of falls while maintaining cleanliness standards.
• Factory Workers: Industrial settings can get messy fast. Whether from spilled materials or routine floor cleaning, non-slip shoes help factory workers stay upright and protected during every shift.
• Construction Workers & Contractors: Working on unpredictable surfaces—including ones prone to water or oil—requires durable, slip-resistant footwear. Contractors need extra protection from both the elements and the job site.
• Hair Stylists & Barbers: Between standing all day and working with water and chemicals, salons can get slippery. Non-slip shoes that are supportive and stylish help beauty professionals stay safe and feel great from open to close.

How do I care for non-slip shoes?

To keep your non-slip shoes performing their best, regular cleaning and proper storage are key. Wipe down the outsoles frequently with a damp cloth or soft brush to remove dirt, grease, and debris that can reduce traction over time. For deeper cleans, use mild soap and water—just avoid harsh chemicals that can degrade the slip-resistant material.

Let your shoes air dry completely after cleaning, and store them in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight. Rotate pairs if you wear them daily to extend their lifespan.

Invest in Your Safety and Comfort

When long shifts meet slick floors, the right shoes aren’t a luxury—they’re a necessity. That’s why we build every KURU work shoe with a triple-layer support system to protect your body from the ground up.

Slip resistance starts with our high-traction rubber outsoles, found in KINETIC 2, KIVI 2, and SHIFT—all rigorously tested to meet SATRA TM: 144 and ASTM F2913-17 anti-slip standards. But we go beyond grip.

Inside each pair, you’ll find our patented KURUSOLE tech that hugs and protects your heels to deliver lasting pain relief, KURUCLOUD midsoles for shock-absorbing cushion, and ULTIMATE INSOLES that offer superior arch support, molding to the shape of your feet over time.

With KURU, you don’t have to choose between slip resistance and support. Our work shoes are built to help you stay steady on your feet and relieve pain at its source, so you can show up for every shift with confidence and end your day with happier, healthier feet.

Disclaimer: Please note that our KINETIC 2, KIVI 2, and SHIFT lines are designed with anti-slip features to enhance grip and stability. However, they are not categorized as slip-resistant or non-slip footwear. While we strive to improve safety through innovative design, we acknowledge that no shoe can completely eliminate the risk of slipping under all circumstances. We recommend customers consider their specific needs and environments when selecting footwear.

Sourcing

• Does Slip-Resistant Footwear Reduce Slips, Trips, and Falls in Food Service? NIOSH: Slip-Resistant Shoes (December 2019)
• Slip-resistant footwear reduces slips. National Library of Medicine (January 2021)

About Us

At KURU, we're on a mission to help you Heel Better™ with footwear technology designed to relieve foot pain, so you can live a life you love. Since launching our innovative technology in 2008, we’ve received more than 39,000 five-star reviews from thousands of customers who tell us their KURU shoes helped them get back to doing what they love.

For all media inquiries, please contact us at pr@kurufootwear.com.