Story By: Dashandria McKinney

Active creatives, such as photographers, videographers, designers, and anyone constantly moving between sets, studios, and unpredictable terrain, need footwear that supports long days, rapid movement, and a professional look.

After speaking with two working creatives, Carter James and Nathan Lewis, several clear priorities emerged: durability, comfort, terrain versatility, low visual distraction and reliable performance over long hours.

Movement Specialist Liz Cash, a physical therapist and strength and conditioning coach who works with cinematographers, camera operators, and camera assistants, emphasizes similar needs. Cash often directs film workers to the Hruska Clinic’s evidence-based shoe list, which is evaluated for heel stability, arch mechanics, and overall foot function. She encourages creatives to choose footwear that allows them to “feel the heel, arch, and big toe,” promoting proper alignment and reducing fatigue during extended production days.

Her recommendations are frequently used by crew members who spend long hours carrying gear or working across uneven surfaces.

Before diving into the top brands, it’s important to note that the following list reflects the shoes students commonly wear on campus and the working creatives interviewed for this story. These picks are based on real-world use, comfort, and performance observations in creative environments, and are not affiliated with or derived from Liz Cash’s clinical footwear recommendations.

  1. On (Cloud Series)

Best for: Lightness, Breathability, and all-day agility

On is known for its ultra-light builds and “walking on air” cushioning. Their CloudTec midsoles provide soft landings and springy takeoffs, reducing fatigue during long shoot days or constant movement between locations. Perfect if you want a shoe that feels almost weightless but still looks refined and modern.

Nathan says that “The best shoe I’ve ever used for creative work was the On Cloud 6 Waterproof…great traction, keeps you dry, and holds up for 8+ miles per day.”

The best shoe I’ve ever used for creative work was the On Cloud 6 Waterproof…great traction, keeps you dry, and holds up for 8+ miles per day.

Nathan Lewis

2. Nike:

Best for: Style-forward performance and versatile comfort

Nike delivers consistent comfort and stability, making it a strong choice for creatives who shift quickly between locations or tasks. Their athletic midsoles provide steady support during long periods of standing, running, or operating gear that requires controlled footwork.

3. Adidas:

Best for: Flexible movement and high-energy work flows 

Adidas shoes are designed for responsiveness, ideal for creatives who need to stay quick on their feet. Boost cushioning provides strong energy return, helping reduce fatigue during long, continuous shooting days or travel assignments. 

For Carter, ” Adidas has had the biggest effect on my workflow. It’s flexible, comfortable, and great for run-and-gun movement.”

Adidas has had the biggest effect on my workflow. It’s flexible, comfortable, and great for run-and-gun movement.

Carter James

4. New Balance:

Best for: Structured support and all-day stability 

New balance excels in shock absorption and balance, making them reliable for long hours, varying gear, walking on uneven ground, or standing in a location. Their comfort-first engineering helps prevent foot fatigue, which often builds up during multiset high-duration work days. 

Nathan has worn New Balance before and praised its support, though he ultimately shifted to On Clouds for features that better fit his daily needs.

5. Puma:

Best for: Lightweight agility and quick directional movement 

Puma’s athletic builds prioritize speed and flexibility, making them ideal for creatives who need to stay mobile without feeling weighed down. Their responsive soles support fast transitions between shots, surfaces, and setups throughout a full production schedule. 

Many creatives choose shoes that look good but perform poorly, bulky designs, and trendy styles. Both Carter James and Nathan Lewis emphasize that heavy or overly fashionable footwear slows you down, causes pain, is not supportive, durable, and low-profile enough to disappear on set. As Nathan Lewis put it, “Your shoes shouldn’t stand out; your work should.”