Top Picks
Scrubs are more than just what you wear to work—they’re what you live in, shift after shift. For doctors, they’re daily gear, a comfort zone and a first impression all in one. They need to move with you, support the way you work and reflect the professionalism you bring to every patient.
But not all scrubs are created equal. The right pair helps you stay comfortable through 12-hour shifts, move confidently in high-pressure situations and show up looking polished—whether you’re in the trauma bay or making clinic rounds. And choosing well means knowing what details to look for. Fabric, fit and function all matter when your scrubs have to work as hard as you do.
Let’s break down what matters most.
4 Key Features Doctors Should Look for in Scrubs
1. Comfort and Fit
Breathable Fabrics
When you're layered under a lab coat or moving nonstop through patient care, breathable fabric makes a difference. Lightweight, moisture-wicking materials—like polyester-spandex blends or stretch poplin—help regulate body temperature and reduce sweat buildup throughout the day. Look for women’s scrubs, unisex or men’s scrubs that feel cool, dry and comfortable, even under pressure.
Proper Fit
How your scrubs fit affects how you move—and how you're seen. A clean, modern fit gives you room to work comfortably without feeling bulky or restrictive. It also helps you show up looking sharp, capable and focused. Whether you're sitting with a patient or moving through a full schedule, the right fit helps you do it all with ease.
Women’s Curved Hemline V-Neck Top
- Refined & ready for anything: 360° stretch moves with you from rounds to consults
- Flattering curved hemline creates a sleek, professional profile
- Designed for doctors who want form and function
Women’s Tapered Leg Drawstring Pant
- Tailored for long-haul shifts: Sleek tapering and a modern fit keep you sharp
- Drawstring waist provides comfort without sacrificing polish
- Perfect for all-day wear in fast-paced clinical settings
2. Fabric Durability and Maintenance
Moisture-Wicking, High-Performance Materials
Doctors need scrubs built for high-intensity environments that can keep up through long shifts, tough messes and frequent washes. That’s where fabric choice makes all the difference. Durable fabrics like polyester-spandex blends not only hold their shape and color but also deliver lasting comfort.
Cherokee’s performance scrubs incorporate moisture-wicking technology that pulls sweat away from the skin to speed up evaporation—so you stay dry, focused and comfortable, especially under pressure. Collections like Achieve pair this with ultra-soft stretch and reinforced seams for strength you can rely on.
Stain and Wrinkle Resistance
Low-maintenance scrubs save time and stress—especially when pre-shift routines get hectic. Look for wrinkle-resistant fabrics that don’t need ironing, and stain-release tech that helps keep coffee, ink or fluids from leaving a mark.
Women’s 3-Pocket V-Neck Tunic
- Sweat-resistant favorite: Breathable performance fabric keeps you cool under pressure
- Moisture-wicking tech pulls sweat away fast
- Three-pocket layout supports busy clinical routines
Men’s One-Pocket Top
- Built for motion: Lightweight, flexible fabric supports nonstop movement
- Sweat-wicking performance keeps you dry all shift
- Clean one-pocket design reduces distractions
3. Functionality
Smart Pocket Design
Doctors carry more than you think—pens, notes, stethoscopes, pagers, alcohol swabs, even snacks. Scrubs with well-placed pockets (like chest, side, cargo or interior options) help you stay organized without adding bulk. Look for designs that keep essentials secure and easy to access, so you’re not digging when it matters most.
Flexible Design
Mobility matters. Stretch fabrics and vented seams give you full range of motion—whether you're reaching overhead or responding in a hurry. Scrubs should feel like part of your workflow and move with you through whatever the day brings.
Women’s V-Neck Solid Scrub Top
- Made for fast-paced care: Chest, sleeve, and patch pockets offer grab-and-go storage
- Utility design supports multitasking on the floor
- Comfortable, easy-care fabric stands up to long shifts
Men’s V-Neck Utility Solid Scrub Top
- Designed for utility and organization: Built-in storage across chest and sleeves
- Straightforward fit that allows for movement and layering
- Ideal for hospitalists on the move
4. Style and Personal Expression
Color and Pattern Options
Hospital dress codes may dictate scrub colors, but that doesn’t mean your style has to disappear. Whether it's classic navy, ceil blue or deeper hues like wine or olive, having options helps you feel like yourself while staying within guidelines. Subtle prints or textured weaves can also bring in personality without breaking uniform policies.
Modern Designs
Small design choices can make a big difference. Tapered jogger pants, mock-wrap tops, contrast piping or side slits offer a polished, professional look with just enough personality. With today’s scrubs, you don’t have to choose between fashion and function—you can have both.
Women’s Mid Rise Tapered Leg Drawstring Pant
- Built for busy floors: Utility-focused with a sleek, tapered silhouette
- Chest, sleeve, and patch pocket coordination for head-to-toe function
- Easy-care fabric holds up through high-volume shifts
Men’s Mid Rise Jogger Pant
- Streamlined for clinical speed: Jogger fit balances mobility and polish
- Secure zip pockets keep essentials locked in
- Resilient, easy-care fabric ideal for nonstop shifts
Top Fabrics for Doctor Scrubs
Polyester-Spandex Blends
Durable, stretchy and wrinkle-resistant, this blend is one of the most popular for doctors. It holds its shape, offers just the right amount of give and stands up to long shifts and repeated washing.
Cotton-Polyester Blends
Softer and more breathable than pure synthetics, this blend gives you the comfort of cotton with the added durability of polyester. A great option if you prefer a more natural feel that still lasts.
Rayon Blends
Lightweight and smooth, rayon brings softness and fluidity to your scrubs. When combined with polyester and spandex, it creates a fabric that feels elevated without being high-maintenance.
Curious about fabric types? Learn more about scrubs materials here.
Finding the Best Pair of Scrubs with Cherokee
No matter your specialty, Cherokee offers a wide range of scrubs built to support the way you work. From stretch-infused joggers to moisture-wicking styles and even fun-loving Tooniforms, every collection is crafted to keep up with you, every shift.
Whether you’re on the floor, in the OR or seeing patients in clinics, our scrubs deliver the comfort, durability and professional polish doctors like you rely on, so you can focus on what matters most: your patients.