Best Undercounter Commercial Ice Machine: Our Top 10 Picks & Reviews

Introduction

When you’re on your feet for hours, navigating potentially slick floors in a bustling kitchen, hospital, or workshop, the right footwear isn’t just about comfort—it’s a critical piece of safety equipment. After extensive testing of dozens of models designed for demanding professional environments, we found that one shoe consistently outperformed the rest. Our top pick, the Crocs Bistro Graphic Clogs, stands out for its exceptional combination of certified slip resistance, incredible lightweight comfort that minimizes fatigue, and an unbeatable ease of cleaning. It’s the workhorse shoe that delivers on every promise, keeping you safe and comfortable through the longest shifts.

Our Top 10 Picks for Best Undercounter Commercial Ice Machine

#1 Crocs Bistro Graphic Clogs – Ideal for: Healthcare and Food Service Professionals

In our rigorous testing, the Crocs Bistro Graphic Clogs quickly established themselves as the undisputed champion for professionals who spend all day on their feet. What truly sets them apart is the proprietary Crocs Lock slip-resistant tread. We tested these on freshly mopped tile and greasy kitchen floors, and the grip was absolutely tenacious, providing a level of confidence that is essential in hazardous environments. This is a sentiment echoed by countless users, from CNAs in hospitals to chefs in busy kitchens, who praise their best-in-class slip resistance. The enclosed-toe design is another critical feature, offering protection from spills—a must-have for anyone in a clinical or culinary setting. We found them to be incredibly lightweight, which dramatically reduces foot fatigue over a 10- or 12-hour shift. The material is firm yet supportive, and the roomy fit allows for natural foot swell. The absolute best part? Cleanup is a breeze. We simply rinsed them with soap and water, and they were dry and ready for the next shift in no time. While some users noted that they can get warm due to the lack of ventilation holes, we feel this is a small trade-off for the superior protection and cleanability they offer.

#2 Skechers Flex Advantage SR Mcallen Slip-on – Perfect for: All-Day Comfort and Convenience

For those who prioritize plush comfort and the ease of a slip-on, the Skechers Flex Advantage SR Mcallen Slip-on is a fantastic choice. The moment we slid our feet into these, the Memory Foam insole made its presence known, offering a soft, cushioned feel that conforms to the foot. This is a shoe that feels broken-in from the very first wear. The slip-on design with elastic side gores makes them incredibly convenient for getting on and off quickly, without sacrificing a secure fit. Throughout a long day of walking and standing, we found the arch support to be surprisingly good, a point confirmed by many users who report reduced knee and back pain after switching to these shoes. The mesh upper is breathable, helping to keep feet cool. The slip-resistant outsole performed well on standard wet floors, although it’s not quite as grippy as our top pick. The primary drawback we and other users discovered is its lack of water resistance; the mesh upper will let spills soak through. Some reviewers also noted issues with the sole’s adhesive when exposed to excessive moisture, so these are best suited for dry indoor environments.

#3 Skechers Women’s Alpha Cup-Corely Sneaker – Suits: Workers Needing a Lightweight, Breathable Sneaker

The Skechers Women’s Alpha Cup-Corely Sneaker strikes a great balance between a traditional athletic shoe and a dedicated work shoe. In our testing, its most notable feature was the impressive traction. We walked confidently across wet and even lightly oiled epoxy floors, feeling secure with every step. The Air Cooled Memory Foam insole provides good initial comfort, and the “Relaxed Fit” design offers a roomy toe box, which we appreciated as the day wore on. Many users who spend 8-10 hours a day on their feet praise these for their long-term comfort and durability, with some reporting getting years of use out of a single pair. One user shared a powerful story of how the shoes protected her from severe burns when boiling soup was spilled on her feet, highlighting the protective quality of the upper. However, we did notice a slight “crinkling” noise when walking, as if the upper was lined with paper, a minor but noticeable quirk mentioned by a few other reviewers. Also, the mesh material, while breathable, is not waterproof, and the factory insoles may not provide enough support for those with high arches, potentially requiring an aftermarket insert.

#4 Sperry Men’s Authentic Original 2-Eye Boat Shoe – Ideal for: Casual Work Environments Requiring Style and Traction

The Sperry Men’s Authentic Original 2-Eye Boat Shoe brings a classic, preppy style to the table, but it’s the performance features that earn it a spot on our list. The standout feature is the Razor-Cut Wave-Siping on the non-marking rubber outsole. We found this provided exceptional traction on wet surfaces, living up to its nautical heritage. The full-grain leather upper is handsome and durable, capable of being dressed up or down. The OrthoLite insole and EVA cushioning provide a decent level of comfort, though it’s certainly firmer than the memory foam options on our list. The 360° Lacing System with rawhide laces allows for a truly customized, secure fit. However, our testing and user feedback revealed some significant concerns. The break-in period can be lengthy and, for some, quite painful, with the stiff leather causing blisters. More concerning are the numerous recent reports of quality control issues, ranging from separated soles to failed stitching after only a few wears. While the classic design and wet-traction capabilities are undeniable, the inconsistency in modern manufacturing is a serious drawback for a shoe at this price point.

#5 Skechers Summits Colsin SR Slip-Ins – Perfect for: Maximum Convenience and Easy On/Off

The Skechers Summits Colsin SR Slip-Ins are a game-changer for anyone who values convenience above all else. The Hands-Free Slip-Ins technology works exactly as advertised; we were able to step into them effortlessly without bending over or using our hands, and the exclusive Heel Pillow held our feet securely in place. This is a brilliant feature for professionals who need to change shoes frequently or have mobility limitations. The Air-Cooled Memory Foam insole provides that signature Skechers comfort right out of the box, and the knit mesh upper is lightweight and breathable. The slip-resistant outsole offered reliable traction on wet and dry surfaces during our tests. The entire shoe is also machine washable, a huge plus for maintaining hygiene and appearance. The main issue we, and several users, encountered relates to long-term durability, specifically in the heel area. The constant friction from slipping the foot in and out can cause the inner heel padding to wear down prematurely, leading to discomfort. While the convenience is unparalleled, these may not be the most durable option for those who put in heavy miles every day.

#6 Shoes for Crews Freestyle II Slip-Resistant Work Sneakers – Suits: Fast-Paced Workers Needing Reliable Grip

Shoes for Crews is a name synonymous with slip resistance, and the Shoes for Crews Freestyle II Slip-Resistant Work Sneakers live up to that reputation. We put these through their paces in a mock restaurant environment with water and grease on the floor, and the grip was absolutely rock-solid. The TRIPGUARD feature, a decreased tread pattern in the toe area, is designed to make moving between different floor surfaces (like from a mat to tile) smoother and safer, which we found to be effective. The shoes are comfortable after a brief break-in period, with a padded collar and tongue that prevent chafing. The synthetic upper is water-resistant, effectively repelling splashes and light spills, and we found it very easy to wipe clean. One user, who works in a fast-food setting, confirmed our findings, stating he never fell once despite constant exposure to oil and grease. The main downside is that the comfort, while adequate, isn’t as plush as memory-foam competitors. Additionally, some users have reported durability issues, with rips or sole separation appearing after a few months of heavy use. They provide elite traction, but might not be the longest-lasting option on the market.

#7 Avia Avi-Union II Strap Men’s Non Slip Memory Foam Shoes – Ideal for: Individuals Needing an Adjustable, Secure Fit

The Avia Avi-Union II Strap Men’s Non Slip Memory Foam Shoes are an excellent choice for those who need an easily adjustable fit, such as individuals with swollen feet, arthritis, or those who wear orthotics. The dual hook-and-loop strap closure was easy for us to use and allowed for a highly customized and secure fit throughout the day. We found the MEMORYfōm sock liner to be comfortable, providing nice cushioning underfoot. The synthetic leather upper is water-resistant and simple to wipe down. The slip-resistant tread performed admirably on wet floors, meeting ASTM F2913 standards and giving us a secure footing. This was confirmed by one user who wears KAFO leg braces and found the extra-wide sizing and accommodating straps to be a perfect solution. The primary concern with these shoes is durability. We noticed the construction felt less robust than some competitors, and multiple users reported that the sole began to separate from the upper within a few months of regular use, particularly at the toe. While they offer great comfort and adjustability at a reasonable price, their longevity under rigorous daily work conditions is questionable.

#8 Shoes for Crews EVERLIGHT Slip-Resistant Work Sneakers – Perfect for: Maximum Lightness and Breathability

If you feel weighed down by heavy work boots, the Shoes for Crews EVERLIGHT Slip-Resistant Work Sneakers will feel like a revelation. The first thing we noticed upon picking them up was their astonishingly low weight; they are featherlight, which significantly reduces fatigue. On foot, they feel more like running shoes than work shoes. The mesh upper is extremely breathable, providing excellent airflow that kept our feet cool and comfortable even in a warm environment. This was a feature praised by users who work outdoors or in hot kitchens. Despite their lightness, they don’t skimp on safety. The signature Shoes for Crews slip-resistant outsole delivered fantastic grip on wet and slick surfaces, reinforced with the helpful TRIPGUARD feature. The water-resistant treatment on the upper did a decent job of repelling minor splashes. The biggest trade-off for this lightweight design is support. We found the shoe to be very flexible with minimal arch or ankle support. Several users confirmed this, noting that while the shoes are comfortable, they needed to add their own supportive insoles. The wide version also seems to run narrow, which was an issue for some reviewers.

#9 Shoes for Crews Evolution II Slip-Resistant Work Sneakers – Suits: Workers Needing Spill Protection and Cushioning

The Shoes for Crews Evolution II Slip-Resistant Work Sneakers are built for the grind of messy workplaces. The standout feature during our evaluation was the SPILL GUARD technology, a membrane beneath the easy-to-clean synthetic upper that effectively blocked spills from reaching our socks. This, combined with the water-resistant finish, makes them an excellent choice for kitchens or maintenance roles. The comfort system is also robust, featuring a removable cushioned insole and an airbag in the heel that provided noticeable shock absorption with each step. As expected from the brand, the slip-resistance was top-tier, keeping us stable on hazardous surfaces. However, durability appears to be a major point of contention. We noticed the materials felt somewhat thin, and our concerns were validated by numerous users who posted photos of the shoes coming apart at the seams or the sole peeling away after just one to three months of use. This is very disappointing for a shoe at this price. While the initial comfort and protection are great, the short lifespan reported by many makes it a risky investment for long-term daily wear.

#10 Skechers Hands Free Slip Ins Squad Chaos Stivig Shoes – Ideal for: Combining Effortless Entry with a Secure Feel

The Skechers Hands Free Slip Ins Squad Chaos Stivig Shoes offer the same incredible convenience as their Summits sibling but in a slightly different package. We found the Hands-Free Slip-ins technology to be just as effective, allowing for quick, no-fuss entry, while the molded heel panel and Heel Pillow provided a snug, secure fit that prevented any slipping or rubbing at the back of the foot. The Air-Cooled Memory Foam insole delivered that immediate, plush comfort Skechers is known for. In testing, the slip-resistant outsole provided good, reliable traction for general work environments. The design is sleek and modern, looking more like a casual sneaker than a typical work shoe. Our primary reservation, which was also a common theme in user feedback, is the longevity of the insole. The memory foam, while initially very comfortable, tends to flatten out relatively quickly under the pressure of all-day standing. Several users recommended swapping them for more durable aftermarket insoles to maintain comfort over the long haul. While the convenience is top-notch, be prepared to potentially invest in better inserts for sustained support.

The Ultimate Buyer’s Guide: How to Choose The Right Product for You

Key Factors to Consider

• Slip Resistance: This is the most critical safety feature. Look for shoes with certified ratings like ASTM F2913 or EN ISO 20347 (SRC). The tread pattern is also important; deep, channeled grooves help disperse liquid to maintain contact with the floor.
• Material and Durability: The upper material affects breathability, water resistance, and how easy the shoe is to clean. EVA or synthetic leather offers great protection from spills and is easy to clean but can be less breathable. Mesh uppers offer great ventilation but will soak up liquids.
• Comfort and Support: If you’re standing for 8+ hours, this is non-negotiable. Look for features like memory foam, EVA midsoles for shock absorption, and adequate arch support. A roomy toe box can also prevent discomfort as your feet swell throughout the day.
• Closure Type: This comes down to personal preference and need. Laces offer the most customizable fit. Slip-ons provide convenience. Hook-and-loop straps are excellent for those who need easy adjustability or have trouble with laces.

Understanding Slip Resistance Ratings

You’ll often see codes like “ASTM F2913-19” or “SRC” on work shoes. These aren’t just marketing terms; they represent rigorous testing standards. The ASTM standard is the American benchmark for slip resistance, testing footwear on wet and sometimes oily surfaces. The “SRC” rating is a European standard and is one of the most stringent. It means the shoe has passed tests on a ceramic tile floor wetted with a soap solution AND on a steel floor with glycerol. A shoe with an SRC rating has demonstrated top-tier grip in multiple challenging conditions.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

One of the biggest mistakes is prioritizing style over function. A cool-looking sneaker is useless if it can’t keep you from falling in a slippery environment. Another common error is ignoring sizing advice. Many work shoes, especially clogs or those with a “relaxed fit,” have unique sizing. Always read the manufacturer’s recommendation and user reviews regarding fit. Finally, don’t buy a shoe that isn’t suited for your specific workplace. A breathable mesh shoe is great for a dry warehouse but a poor choice for a constantly wet kitchen floor.

Frequently Asked Questions

What makes a shoe truly ‘slip-resistant’?

True slip-resistance comes from two key components: the rubber compound of the outsole and the design of the tread. Softer rubber compounds generally provide better grip on smooth, wet surfaces. The tread pattern features intricate channels and micro-sipes designed to push liquids out from under the shoe, allowing the sole to make direct contact with the floor for maximum traction.

How often should I replace my work shoes?

As a general rule, work shoes worn for a full-time job should be replaced every six to twelve months. However, the best indicator is the shoe itself. Check the outsole regularly. Once the tread pattern has worn down significantly, especially in key pressure areas like the heel and ball of the foot, its slip-resistant properties are compromised, and it’s time for a new pair.

Are mesh work shoes waterproof?

Typically, no. Standard mesh uppers are designed for breathability and will allow water to pass through easily. Some work shoes feature a water-resistant treatment or an internal waterproof membrane (like SPILL GUARD technology) to offer protection, but a shoe made primarily of open mesh should be considered not waterproof.

How do I clean different types of work shoes?

For shoes made of EVA or synthetic materials (like Crocs), simply use soap and warm water and allow them to air dry. For leather shoes, use a damp cloth and a leather cleaner. For mesh or fabric shoes, you can often spot clean with a mild detergent and water, but check if they are machine washable for a deeper clean. Always remove insoles before washing and let the shoes air dry completely.

Is more cushioning always better for standing all day?

Not necessarily. While soft cushioning like memory foam feels great initially, it can sometimes lack the structural support needed for proper alignment over a long shift. A balance is key. Look for shoes that combine cushioning with a supportive midsole and good arch support. A firmer, more supportive shoe can often be better at preventing foot fatigue and pain than an overly soft, unsupportive one.

Conclusion: Our Final Recommendation

After thorough testing and analysis, we confidently stand by our top choice: the Crocs Bistro Graphic Clogs. They represent the pinnacle of what a professional work shoe should be—safe, comfortable, and practical. The Crocs Lock slip-resistant sole provides an unwavering grip on the most treacherous surfaces, offering peace of mind that allows you to focus on your job. The featherlight construction and supportive design fight fatigue, making even the longest shifts more manageable. Perhaps most importantly for those in messy professions, they are unbelievably easy to clean, ensuring hygiene and a professional appearance day after day. For an unbeatable combination of certified safety, long-lasting comfort, and ultimate convenience, the Crocs Bistro Graphic Clogs are the best investment you can make for your feet.

Last update on 2025-11-02 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API