Every day begins with a pair of shoes, and a step into someone’s story. From muddy fields to corporate offices, the shoes we wear shape how we experience the world and how we meet its challenges. Each scuffed toe, torn shoelace or broken-in pair reflects the demands of the job and the resilience of those who wear them.
In a state like Wisconsin that is constantly adapting to new currents — whether that be social, political or economical — shoes serve beyond function. The shoes we wear are a testament to how we stand our ground, keep our balance and move forward. Through long and grueling shifts, inclement weather and crucial performances, these shoes sustain Wisconsin workers through the highs and lows of the workday.
The Laborer
Joseph Salemi, Owner
Madison
JMOC Services, Outdoor cleaning services, based in Chicagoland
Men’s Timberland PRO® Direct Attach 6″ Waterproof Insulated Steel-Toe Work Boot
$170
“These boots work great for me because they allow me comfort throughout long days, paired with durability and safety needed out on job sites.”
The Dancer
Olivia Mendez, UW–Madison dance student
Waukesha
Bloch Ladies Enhance Leather Ballet Shoes
$44
“Ballet slippers are thin and flexible, allowing me to fully articulate my foot and feel connected to the floor, while also providing enough traction so I will not slip.”
The Athlete
Gena Dockry, Bella Donna ultimate frisbee player
Madison
“I chose these shoes because they’re comfortable and lightweight. They are the best for my sport because we play on grass/turf fields and would be slipping and sliding without the traction cleats have!”
The Bartender
Ingrid Buiceag-Arama
Bartender at Stuffed Oliv
Madison
2976 Slip Resistant Leather Chelsea Boots
$180
“They’re super broken in and comfortable for me, and they also fit our black-shoe dress code.”
The Retail Worker
Bella Rotfeld
Waukesha
Brand Marketer Ambassador, Bubblr
ASICS Gel Cumulus-27 Running Shoes
$140
“I wear my ASICS runners because they are supportive and the type of shoe that works best for my foot in physical activities. They’re great for my job because of the padding they offer for all of the long hours I’m standing.”
The Health Care Worker
Annalydia Siegenthaler
Ann Arbor, Michigan
Clinical Nursing Assistant
On Cloud Cloudmonster Running Shoes
$170
“I wear On Cloud shoes when I am working as a home health aide. I love these shoes for work because they allow me to comfortably walk and be on my feet throughout the majority of my shift, as well as give me stability when I am transferring my patient.”
The Corporate Worker
Valery Neira
Investment Management Intern at Cedar Street Asset Management LLC
ZARA Square Toe High Heel Leather Boots
“I bought/wore my boots to my job over the summer as the height and, as silly as it sounds, gave me the confidence to be in a space and field dominated by men.”
Feature Photo by Jonás Tijerino