Shoes for Crews Pembroke Slip-Resistant High-Top Work Sneakers

In this review of the Pembroke high-top work sneaker, the bottom line is simple: this shoe is built for people who need reliable slip resistance and a smart, casual look during long shifts. It is best for hospitality, retail and office staff who move between front-of-house duties and behind-the-scenes tasks and want footwear that stays neat and functional. The reviewer found the shoe combines a water-resistant, vegan upper and a TRIPGUARD-reinforced outsole that meets ASTM F2913-19 traction standards, offering confidence on wet or greasy floors without sacrificing everyday style.

Key Features

• Slip-resistant outsole: The outsole is reinforced with TRIPGUARD tech to provide traction on wet, oily and greasy surfaces, reducing slips and trips during busy shifts.
• Water-resistant upper: The SPILL GUARD treated upper helps keep feet dry from spills and light moisture encountered in hospitality or food service work.
• Removable insole: The easy-to-clean, removable insole lets you swap in a preferred orthotic or freshen up the original for extended comfort over long shifts.
• Unisex fit: Designed to fit true to size for both women and men, so it works for mixed staff teams and simplifies ordering.
• Classic high-top look: The sneaker styling provides a casual yet tidy appearance that fits front-of-house or administrative settings while remaining functional in back-of-house roles.
• Proven slip-resistance legacy: Backed by decades of work-shoe design, the Pembroke extends a long history of original slip-resistance technology trusted by many businesses.

Who It's For

The Pembroke is aimed at hospitality workers, servers, baristas, retail associates and office staff who need a shoe that looks presentable and performs reliably on slippery surfaces. Its water-resistant upper and ASTM-rated traction make it a sensible choice for kitchens, bars and fast-paced retail floors.

People who spend long periods on their feet and require maximum cushioning or custom orthotics may want to test the removable insole or consider a model with thicker factory cushioning. Those who need fully waterproof footwear for full submersion should look at dedicated waterproof styles instead.

Pros & Cons

Pros

• Dependable slip resistance that meets ASTM traction standards for wet and oily floors.
• Smart, familiar high-top style that works front- and back-of-house without looking out of place.
• Removable, easy-to-clean insole for simple customization and hygiene.

Cons

• Comfort is mixed for some wearers; a few customers reported soreness unless they use a different insole.
• Water-resistant upper resists spills but is not intended for full submersion or heavy rain work.

Specifications

Our Verdict

The Pembroke is a sensible pick for workers who want a clean, casual high-top that reliably reduces slip risk and handles everyday spills. It represents good value for teams in hospitality and retail who prioritize traction and a presentable appearance, though those needing maximum factory cushioning or full waterproofing should compare alternatives.

Frequently Asked Questions

Are these shoes true to size?
Yes, the Pembroke is designed to fit true to size for both women and men.

Are they fully waterproof?
No, the upper is water-resistant with SPILL GUARD to block spills and light moisture but is not for full submersion.

Can I replace the insole with my own orthotic?
Yes, the removable insole is easy to take out and swap for a custom orthotic or a different supportive insole.