Best Scrubs for Men in Nursing
Best Scrubs for Men in Nursing
Scrubs are an essential part of the uniform for male nurses engaged in direct patient care. While scrub designs have traditionally catered to women, male nurses now represent about 12% of the workforce, leading to an increase in the demand for men's scrubs. This article provides a guide for male nurses on selecting comfortable fabrics, achieving a great fit, and exploring popular scrub brands that receive high ratings from fellow male nurses.
Selecting Comfortable Fabrics
Nurses often work extended shifts, so comfort is key. Their clothing must withstand the demands of nursing work, requiring fabrics that are breathable (like cotton), durable (like polyester), and stretchy (like spandex). Be sure to check the fabric labels on your scrubs to understand the fabric blend and choose the combination that works best in your care setting.
One size doesn't fit all, and neither does one type of fabric. Nurses engaged in physical activities like lifting, bending, and running need scrubs that allow for freedom of movement.
Your appearance in scrubs also matters. As healthcare professionals, it's important to wear a uniform that reflects your professionalism. Avoid scrubs that are too loose or baggy. Fortunately, there are many options available that fit well without looking sloppy.
Finding the Perfect Fit
The choice of breathable, durable, and stretchy scrubs should align with your work environment. While male nurses work in various specialties, many tend to gravitate toward areas like flight, emergency, or critical care, where flexibility is especially important. Be cautious with unisex scrubs, as they may not always fit comfortably due to sizing quirks.
Also, it's essential that your scrubs have plenty of pockets to hold the equipment you need for easy access. Nurses often carry patient report sheets, pens, alcohol swabs, syringes, and more, so functional pocket designs are a must.
When considering your next set of scrubs, take note of these highly rated brands favored by male nurses. Try mimicking the movements you will perform regularly during the fitting process—reach, bend, and squat to ensure your scrubs are flexible and comfortable.
Highly Rated Scrubs for Male Nurses
- FIGS
Known for their premium, stylish designs, FIGS offers a wide range of men's scrubs that prioritize comfort, durability, and flexibility. Their popular styles come in a variety of sizes and colors, and they receive top ratings for both performance and fashion. Features include modern cuts, plenty of pockets, and a focus on comfort for long shifts. - Dickies Medical
A classic choice, Dickies Medical has built a reputation for their durable, comfortable scrubs. Their scrub tops and pants come at various price points and are favored for their relaxed fit and practicality. Features include spacious cargo pockets, side vents for breathability, and long-lasting fabric. - Barco® Scrubs
Barco® is known for combining function with fashion. Their scrubs feature excellent stretch, durability, and comfort. Their bestselling designs have become popular in medical professions for their flexibility and ergonomic design. The brand is well-regarded for its stylish looks and performance-driven features. - Cherokee Uniforms
Cherokee offers a range of scrubs that are known for their comfort and utility. Their line of men's scrubs includes options that provide ample pocket space, comfortable fabrics, and modern designs. Cherokee's affordable pricing combined with high-quality materials makes them a favorite among nurses. - Urbane Scrubs
Urbane scrubs offer innovative designs and cutting-edge fabrics that balance both style and comfort. Their men's scrub line provides excellent stretch, breathability, and ample storage, making them ideal for nurses in fast-paced, physically demanding environments.
Next Steps
It’s time to start shopping! If you're not keen on buying online, most local scrub retailers stock the brands mentioned above. Alternatively, many other options are available in-store for those who prefer to try them on before purchasing.
Also, keep the cost in mind. Many nurses prefer not to spend excessively on scrubs, especially if their hospital provides them. However, consider the comfort and utility that many hospital-issued scrubs offer before making your decision. Investigate whether your workplace covers the cost of scrubs and how much they reimburse. Lesser-known brands, often found within certain price ranges, also receive positive feedback from male nurses regarding comfort and functionality. These options sometimes outperform hospital-issued scrubs.
Nurses play a critical role in ensuring patient health and welfare, so having the right tools is vital for success. Scrubs are a fundamental piece of the nursing uniform that should prioritize both comfort and utility to enable high-quality patient care. Don't forget to check out our suggestions for the best shoes for male nurses to complete your uniform!
