The *Very Specific* Rules About Cast Member Shoes at Disney World

Those of us who have never worked at Disney World may be familiar with the fact that Disney is pretty strict about things, but we may never realize HOW strict unless we experience it ourselves.

We do have some former Cast Members on our team though, and we ask them often about what being a Cast Member is like to better inform you. You likely have noticed that Cast Members in different areas of the parks wear specific costumes, but did you know that there are MULTIPLE rules for what footwear is allowed in the parks?

There are two big categories of Cast Members when it comes to costumes and footwear — Costumed and Non-Costumed Cast Members. Costumed Cast Members are Cast Members who are given a specific costume by Disney World to wear in a specific land, show, attraction, etc.

Non-Costumed Cast Members are Cast Members who follow the dress code guidelines Disney provides, but aren’t given a specific costume. This is often someone who may not traditionally be seen by guests.

When it comes to footwear for Costumed Cast Members, Disney World’s official guidelines do say that the requirements do change based on the area the CM is working in, and to check with the Costuming Module in The Hub or with their leader to ensure proper style and color. However, the rules are:

• Shoes must be kept in clean and in good condition at all times
• Dress shoes must be solid in color “with minimal contrasting logos or markings and made of a polishable material.”
• Athletic shoes must be solid in color with minimal contrasting logos
• It’s RECOMMENDED that shoes be slip-resistant

For Non-Costumed Cast Members, the requirements are:

• Shoes or boots must be appropriate for your business/unit location
• Sandals are not permitted
• Dress shoes are permitted to “have contrast soles, an open toe, open heel and/or sling back“

However, we chatted with a former Cast Member on our team who told us that even though it’s only recommended, most Cast Members (especially those working in food and beverage) NEED to have slip resistant shoes. They shared that the ones Disney provided were uncomfortable, so they purchased their own. However, when they got hurt on the job, the first thing their leader checked was to make sure their shoes were slip-resistant (which they were). They also had a friend who tried to get away with wearing just regular black sneakers, but if you slipped, you’d get in trouble!

Cast Members go through a lot of training, and there are tons of rules and regulations they must follow to continue to be employed by the company.

We’re always doing our best to bring you the latest Cast Member news, so stay tuned to AllEars!

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What’s your favorite Disney World Cast Member costume? Tell us in the comments!

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