Kitchen Shoes

[Ford Prefect]

I've got a couple test days at local restaurants this coming week. Never worked in a kitchen before, so I'm not sure exactly what is expected of me. The head chef said he'd be happy to lend me a chef uniform but I'm not sure what to do about ma shoes. :confused:

These are my only pair at the moment...
http://www.soleredemption.com/pics/2007/02/vans-united-arrows-era-2.jpg

Will they be good enough for a test day or should I buy a new pair tonight? If so, any suggestions? Preferably something tres cheap...

[xxombie]

Make sure
a) they don't have black soles that are gonna leave scuff marks.
b) they're slip proof as hell, falling in the kitchen is bad news

As for how they should look, plain white seems formal enough.

[Euda]

Dickies makes a pretty comfortable work shoe. In addition to xxombie's advice, you don't want laces to catch and hold food or sauces, in case something does fall.

[Ford Prefect]

Thanks Canadians.

I bought a pair of something similar to dickies. They're black, but I tested them out and they won't leave scuff marks. Alls good.

[Euda]

Good luck, listen, stay aware of what's going on around you, and work to the best of your ability. If you don't know how to do something, be sure to ask; ahead of time, if possible. There's always a tip to be had or a technique to be shown. Don't be afraid to look stupid, it's a starting point that you build on with time. Everybody's been there.

And you're welcome. Let me know how it goes.

[reallystupidstuff]

http://www.thescrubclub.com/images/klogs2006_01.gif

reliable as hell and comfortable for standing 12+ hours. i work in these

[azalie]

As long as they cover your feet and aren't made of flimsy material (like runners) they should be fine. Most chefs I see wear black leather shoes. It's mostly just for OHS, knives won't stab through the leather if they fall on you.

[Kwinnie Bogan]

http://www.wellingtonsurplus.com.au/images/m/HB35480.jpg

[Kristof]

For test days just wear something non-slip, and preferably black. If you decide to stay in the industry for a bit then a pair of clogs is easily your best bet. Sika is a good brand.

[Jethro]

Leather, enclosed and preferably black. You're aiming for comfort too, it gets mighty hot and sweaty in kitchens so try find the most comfortable shoe you can if you're buying. The shoes in the picture look to be canvas, not ideal. Leathers the best.

[Irukanji]

Laces are better, if you know how to tie them then they wont come undone or get caught on anything.

And steel caps are recommended.

http://www.steelblue.com.au/default.aspx?MenuID=56
2nd pair down is what i have, tad expensive but comfortable :)

[Monkmaster]

http://www.shoesforcrews.com/

I've always relied on these for kitchen work.