NSV - New Job

You make an important point here - it's important to have at least two pairs to alternate between. Giving your shoes a day to rest lets them air out and decompress in the foot bed.

It's also important to note that everyone's feet are different, so a shoe that works for one person might not work for another.

A lot of the good running shoe brands have a "stabilization" offering - Brooks Beast, Saucony Omni. These are especially good for those who need to be on their feet for long periods of time since they offer greater stability through the arch and ankle. (Versus a running shoe which requires a greater amount of flex.) In terms of those two brands - Saucony is known to have a wider toe box and narrower heel than Brooks. But, when in doubt, getting fitted for shoes at a proper running store is always useful.

And I totally second the custom orthotics recommendation. (Although I needed to get new ones made after getting under 250, since apparently they're made differently when you're SMO. I had no idea.)

Where does one go about getting custom orthotics made? I have Superfeet that were recommended to me by Fleet Feet, but I wonder if I went with custom ones if I would further help the calf/ankle fatigue that I experience while running.

If you need customs made, there are a bunch of options. I used to see a chiropractor that had a partnership with an orthotics company, and they laser imaged my feet to create my orthotics. My husband had casts made by his podiatrist and they were sent out for his orthotics. There are companies that will ship you the casting boxes and create them for you.

A podiatrist is my recommendation :) I think every runner should have a podiatrist on speed dial ;)

I've even switched shoes half-way through a shift at times. And you're right, everyone has to find their own best shoe. :)

I adore The Walking Company - if you have a store near you, they will computer analyze your size and how your weight distributes as you walk and help you find the best shoe for you. They can stretch shoes a certain amount as well on-site. They have some pre-made orthotic inserts that are pretty decent for most people.

I got fitted at a running store. I am used to buying shoes just based on size and right off the shelf at Kohl's, or Macy's etc, so when I went in I was a little confused when they sat me down and measured my foot and put shoes on me. I was like "What is happening here..." but it was so nice! I really prefer a wider toe box, since my little toes always likes to squeeze in with the one beside it.

You might consider Saucony Omni then :)

I'm getting ready to buy my second pair of shoes to rotate between. Since I am walking constantly, a walking shoe is great. I haven't been able to find any clogs that actually fit my wide feet. I would have better luck ordering a pair, but I hate ordering online and then they don't fit. So far, Brooks has been amazing. My feet are tired at the end of the day definitely, but they aren't killing me like they did in Nike. Compression socks is next on my list. I measured my calves for a pair, now just need to pick some up!

You may want to check out a walking shoe instead of a running shoe. They tend to have more padding and support. I love New Balance for walking shoes, but ended up with some different brands in the ER. But, as has been discussed, each person finds what works for them. :) Clogs are kinda hit and miss in my book. They were great for me in a small ICU where there wasn't that much actual walking, just up and down mostly. When I tried to wear them in the ER, I ended up with NASTY shin splints and had to move to a walking shoe. I wouldn't get fixated on clogs, and especially for medical work (or really anything where you're on your feet all day) I wouldn't buy anything I couldn't try on. Once you know the exact brand/model/size ordering is fine unless something changes. But for new brand/model stuff? Never in my book. :)

There are some places online where you can get really cute patterned compression socks that don't look like TED hose. :) Just get a feel for what level of compression you like and what size you need. You'll be amazed at how much difference they will make. :)