The 26 Most Comfortable Shoes That Don’t Sacrifice Style

The Most Comfortable Shoes

Shoes are certainly one of life’s necessities, but they don’t always do the job they should. Who hasn’t suffered an injury that has been caused by wearing the wrong footwear? Whether it be as minute as a deep blister from a narrow toe or as serious as an ankle roll caused by a sky-high stiletto, the most comfortable shoes should always be top of mind whenever shopping for footwear.

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However, finding shoes that are as functional as they are fashionable, can be another problem in and of itself. Thankfully, in recent years, there has been a shift in demand toward comfortable shoes that offer support and balance to the wearer, with a fashion-forward twist. Even orthopedic-friendly brands, such as KEEN, HOKA, and Birkenstock, have risen dramatically in popularity, often selling out instantly on various retailers’ sites, proving that the most comfortable shoes can even be downright cool.

Ahead, we tapped three experts to help us get to the bottom of what makes a shoe comfortable and which styles are worth the investment for our list of the 25 best comfortable shoes for every occasion.

Best Overall

Allbirds Womens Tree Dasher 2

The Best Overall Shoes: Allbirds Womens Tree Dasher 2

Allbirds

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AllBirds’ unique approach to comfort and sustainability has made it one of the leaders in the footwear industry. Aptly marketed as “The World’s Most Comfortable Shoe,” the signature sneaker design is made from a seamless, one-piece upper providing maximum comfort. They have added lightly padded heel collars to help keep the ankle in place, while a flexible, cushioned midsole makes every stride smoother. The performance aspects were also intricately measured, having been tested on over 90 runners in a nine-month testing period to perfect the fit and design. Wear them for a long run outdoors or your next treadmill session at the gym to put them to the test.

  • Material: Textile and TENCEL® Lyocell upper; textile lining; and rubber and synthetic sole
  • Colors: Natural Black, Blizzard, Medium Grey, Clarity Pink +more
  • Size Range:5–11

Best Budget

Teva Womens Midform Universal Sandal

The Best Budget Shoes: Teva Womens Midform Universal Sandal

Courtesy of Amazon.

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Comfortable shoes don’t have to have a high price tag, thanks to Teva’s supportive sandals. They’re ideal for water destinations (think rocky cliffs, sandy shores, and hotel pools), but they work well to run errands around the city, too. The brand’s Midform sandals were designed with a molded EVA midsole with heel cupping and arch cookie for extra support, to ensure that warm-weather activities can be comfortable as well. The adjustable straps make taking these on and off simple (and they are made from a traceable, recycled material for those eco-conscious shoppers out there). This shoe has also been treated with a responsibly sourced peppermint-based antimicrobial called Life Naturals, fighting the growth of odor-causing bacteria and unwanted smells.

  • Material: Upper webbing made from recycled plastic using traceable, verifiable REPREVE® polyester yarn by Unifi® and rubber sole
  • Colors:Metallic Blue Multi, Metallic Pink Multi +more
  • Size Range:5–11

Best for Evening

Nalebe 55mm Aurum Mules

The Most Comfortable Shoes for Evening: Nalebe 55mm Aurum Mules

Shopbop

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After spraining her ankle and being unable to wear heels for three years, Amina Means founded Nalebe, a luxury shoe brand that focuses on comfort, style, and sustainability. “No matter how beautiful the shoe is, if I cannot guarantee it will be comfortable and add value to my customer then that design will never make it to production,” she tells buuk.top. One of Means’ favorites is the embellished Aurum mule. “The gem-encrusted heel offers more balance for my posture. Even while pregnant, I’ve found these to be my go-to for everything. They also come in multiple heel heights,” she says. Wear these on a night out with jeans and a blazer or for a more formal affair with a cocktail dress for a glamorous touch.

  • Material: Calfskin leather
  • Colors: Green
  • Size Range: EU36–EU41

Best Ballet Flats

Sole Bliss Luna Flat

The Best Ballet Flats: Sole Bliss Luna Flat

Sole Bliss

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Let’s face it, sometimes even flats can be painful, but they don’t have to be. "I tell my patients that they need to look for a shoe that is comfy, supportive, and, of course, stylish!” says Dr. Brad Schaeffer, a board-certified foot surgeon based in New York City. “Ever since I heard about Sole Bliss, they became my go-to recommendation for all of the above.” When it comes to flats, he recommends the Luna ballerina flat. “For women looking for the perfect ballet flat, I love the Luna because it’s the most comfy and stylish ballet flat for bunions and wide feet. [It doesnt sacrifice] support,” he says.  Handcrafted in Spain from soft leather, these ballerinas are incredibly supportive, featuring a triple layer of memory foam, a Bunion Bed®, which takes the pressure off that area of the foot, as well as a rubber shock-resistant heel piece. These are a no-brainer thanks to their podiatrist’s stamp of approval.

  • Material:Leather upper and lining
  • Colors: Taupe Leather, Pale Blue Croc, Navy Croc, Camel Croc, Lilac Croc, Bordeaux Snake+more
  • Size Range:5–11

Best Everyday Sneakers

FRANKiE4 Nat II

The Best Everyday Sneakers: FRANKiE4 Nat II

FRANKiE4

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Podiatrist Caroline McCulloch founded FRANKIE4 with her husband Allan, a fellow podiatrist, after seeing firsthand the void of cute and comfortable options in the industry. “I saw women of all ages feeling like they were compromising on their look because it was their only option to reduce pain,” McCullouch says. “I knew there was a better option and that I could help so many more women if I could make my footwear a reality.” Now, with thousands of global five-star reviews, the Nat sneaker is their number-one style and a best-seller with good reason. Slip into this classic lace-up sneaker that offers optimal cushion thanks to their unique Sole Hero™ Footbeds, which are designed to alleviate and prevent heel, arch, and forefoot pain through contoured footbeds and just the right amount of cushion.

  • Material:Leather upper, footbed cover, and lining with rPET foam (made from recycled plastic bottles) footbed
  • Colors: White, Black/Black, Black/White +more
  • Size Range: 5–13

Best Heeled Sandals

Vionic Brookell Buckle Strap Sandal

The Best Heeled Sandals: Vionic Brookell Buckle Strap Sandal

Zappos

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All of Vionic’s shoes feature THREE-ZONE COMFORT™ with the ultimate arch support, cushioning, and stability. The Brookell sandal gives the lift of a heel, without the pain, thanks to this signature technology. Deep heel cups and enhanced forefoot contour make this 3.25-inch heel completely walkable for hours while the square toe and buckle strap add a modern, fashionable twist that you wouldn’t expect to be this comfortable. Wear these sandals to a casual office for a day of meetings or dress them up for a night out with friends.

  • Material: Leather and suede upper; synthetic lining; and rubber sole
  • Colors: Macaroon, Black Cream +more
  • Size Range: 5–11

Best for Walking

KEEN WK400 Walking Shoes

The Most Comfortable Shoes for Walking: KEEN WK400 Walking Shoes

REI

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Keen’s newest launch is the WK400 Walking Shoes, designed specifically for the number one activity in the world. Made with KEEN.CURVE™ technology, its all about the constant curved plate inside, reaching from toe to heel, for nonstop propulsion. This design creates a feeling of forward momentum that makes walking feel more like rolling and is highly effective. The sporty sneaker shape is not only highly comfortable with plenty of cushion but is extremely wearable and of-the-moment. Whether you are looking for something to get those daily steps in or have a long day on your feet filled with appointments ahead, walking is a breeze.

  • Material: Performance mesh/TPU overlays and rubber outsole
  • Colors: Triple Black, Fawn/Peach Whip, Yellow/Black +more
  • Size Range: 5–12

Best Flats

Birdies The Heron

The Most Comfortable Flats: Birdies The Heron

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Birdies are known for their highly comfy styles, in fashion-forward designs like their classic flat. Inspired by the Venetian gondolier shoe, the Heron shoe is a versatile, almond-toe style and made with the 7-layer comfort technology the brand is known for, including arch and heel support, shock absorption, and memory foam cushioning. Style them with a suit for the office or wear them with jeans on your next trip, as these are a great, travel-friendly option to wear to the airport, bring in your carry-on or simply wear on the plane.

  • Material: Leather upper and lining and rubber sole
  • Colors: Garnet, Navy Suede, Rosewater Suede, Crimson Velvet +more
  • Size Range:5–12

Best Hikers

HOKA Anacapa Mid GORE-TEX Hiking Boots

The Most Comfortable Hikers: HOKA Anacapa Mid GORE-TEX Hiking Boots

REI

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You know HOKAs for their light-on-your-feet cushion, and this same feeling can be found in their hikers as well. The Anacapa is made from GORE-TEX®, waterproof nubuck leather, certified by the Leather Working Group. The symmetrical bed of cushion provides added boost, while the geometry of the extended heel is for softer impact and smoother heel-to-toe transitions. Lace these shoes up for a day on the trails, and you will instantly feel the lasting comfort. Bonus points: these were awarded The American Podiatric Medical Association’s (APMA) Seal of Acceptance, having been reviewed by a group of podiatrists.

  • Material: Waterproof nubuck leather with recycled polyester materials in collar, mesh, and laces
  • Colors: Dune/Lilac Marble, Elderberry/Grape Wine, Hot Sauce/Cherry Mahogany, Mountain Spring/Harbor Mist +more
  • Size Range:5–11

Best Sustainable

Cariuma IBI Slip On

The Best Sustainable Comfortable Shoes: Cariuma IBI Slip On

Cariuma

Buy On Cariuma.com

You already know how much we love a slip-on sneaker due to how easy they are to put on, but what makes this pair from Cariuma even better is the sustainability aspect. The knit upper is made from bamboo that is harvested from the stalk and rapidly regenerates, leaving the tree and soil intact. The outsole is made from sugarcane, and the memory foam is made from cork and momona oil. Even the linings, threads, and logos come from recycled plastic bottles. Weve worn these sneakers on vacations and treks across New York City, and the light composition and insoles left our feet blister and pain-free.

  • Material: Bamboo and recycled PET
  • Colors: White, Black +more
  • Size Range: 5-13

Best Loafer

Dr. Scholl’s Faxon Loafer

The Best Loafer Shoes: Dr. Scholl’s Faxon Loafer

Nordstrom

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A loafer is a timeless shoe that should be a part of every wardrobe, and Dr. Scholl’s simple, suede version was made for long days on your feet. The brand’s distinct quilted heel and insole technology with anatomical cushioning set it apart from the rest, and will provide all-day, lasting comfort for coffee runs, school drop-offs, meetings, and more. This style is also sustainably made, crafted from suede sourced through the Leather Working Group, eco-conscious fabrics lining the interior and finishing things off, a heel counter made from recycled materials. The price also can’t be beaten for the quality you receive.

  • Material: Leather upper, textile lining, and synthetic sole
  • Colors: Honey, Black, and Taupe
  • Size Range:6–11

Best Stilettos

Tamara Mellon Pillow Top Solar 100

The Most Comfortable Stilettos: Tamara Mellon Pillow Top Solar 100

Tamara Mellon

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Tamara Mellon’s fashion-forward designs have consistently been on TKKT in the know, but the Pillow Top collection is fastly becoming best kept secret. Inspired by the Eames Soft Pad Chair, Mellon worked with a team to make their one-of-a-kind shoe, a stiletto that has dual-layer cushioning made from 8mm of high-density memory foam, which softens and molds to the foot over time through body heat. It is a level of comfort that can only be described as walking on a cloud. Take these strappy sandals for a spin at your next wedding or gala function. The 100mm heel won’t be a problem for a full night of mingling and dancing.

  • Material: Soft naplack leather
  • Colors: Black and pink
  • Size Range: 5–12

Best Mules

Hush Puppies Womens Sienna Mule

The Most Comfortable Mules: Hush Puppies Womens Sienna Mule

Amazon

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Founded in 1958, Hush Puppies has been perfecting the art of comfortable, casual shoes as a solution to sore feet. Since footbeds are one of the most important design elements within a comfortable shoe, Hush Puppies designed their Bounce™ footbed to preserve its cushioning and provide energy rebound with every step, all day long. This technology can be found in the Sienna Mule, as well as Topline Pillow pads that add extra softness and bounce while preventing rubbing, so blisters are not an issue. We love the cow print suede for a fun take on the western trend, that will look just as good with tees and jeans on the weekend at brunch, as they will with a shirtdress for work.

  • Material: Genuine leather footbed cover, microsuede lining, and TPR rubber outsole
  • Colors: Cow Print Leather, Bold Black Leather, and Rust Tan Suede
  • Size Range: 5–12 with additional wide sizing

Best Clogs

Birkenstock Womens Boston Soft Footbed Clog

The Most Comfortable Clogs: Birkenstock Womens Boston Soft Footbed Clog

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One of Birkenstock’s best-selling and well-known styles is the Boston Clog, a slip-on shoe that molds to the wearer’s foot over time, providing proper weight distribution and balance along the way. The secret to the brands strength and coziness is the cork footbed that has an integrated layer of latex cushion. Thanks to the clog revival en mode, it can be worn with everything from a trench and jeans to a button-up and shorts in the summer, for an effortless and minimalist look that doesn’t sacrifice comfort.

  • Material: Suede leather upper, natural leather insole, cork footbed, and EVA outsole
  • Colors: Black Suede and Taupe
  • Size Range:EU36–EU41

The 20 Best Clogs That Make This 70s Trend Modern Again

Best Pointy Pumps

Salone Monet Anita Satin Pumps

Best Pointy Pumps Shoes: Salone Monet Anita Satin Pumps

Bloomingdales

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Woman-founded brand Salone Monet focuses on the importance of inclusive colorways for every skin tone, through their classic pump styles. The Anita is a pointed heel available in multiple colorways, allowing the wearer to find their ideal shade. Customers also recommend these for their comfortable fit that comes from a signature recessed platform that lends extra support, making it a style that can be worn for hours on end easily. The slight sheen to the fabric adds a luxe quality that can be dressed up or down. Wear yours to work with a blazer and trouser pants or with an evening dress for a semi-formal night out.

  • Material: Satin upper with suede leather lining and sole
  • Colors: Mccullough, Campbell, Kyle, Paul, Bank, and Landry (skin colors)
  • Size Range:6–11

Best for All-Day Wear

Clove Womens Classic Nursing Shoe

The Most Comfortable Shoes for All-Day Wear: Clove Womens Classic Nursing Shoe

Clove

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Originally designed for healthcare workers, Clove was created to offer a shoe specifically for the medical community, who often work 12+ hour shifts at a time, constantly on their feet. Although they are still one of the leading industry shoes, their stylish and comfortable designs are not just for the particular field. Their classic sneaker is a sleek style that stretches and molds to the foot, offering increased support and comfort specific to the wearer. Available in a plethora of colorways, patterns, and prints, this shoe will work for anyone who needs a little extra standing power.

  • Material: Clarino™, which is a microfiber fabric that mimics real leather
  • Colors: Grey Matter, Night Shift, Brilliant White, All Black, Lavender +more
  • Size Range:5–12.5

Best Slides

Reef Cushion Bounce Vista Slide Sandal

The Most Comfortable Slides: Reef Cushion Bounce Vista Slide Sandal

Nordstrom

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When you think of flat shoes, especially sandals, arch support is not always a part of the equation. Reef’s Vista slides are engineered with enhanced support for arches and built-in heel cupping, leaving feet feeling cushioned by each step. The shoe was also designed with a wider, anatomically contoured footbed and high-energy rebound, making every move all the more seamless. Whether you are headed to a warm-weather destination vacation or looking for everyday sandals for a summer in the city, these can be worn all day without any issues.

  • Material: PVC-free vegan leather
  • Colors: Black/Natural, Black Duo +more
  • Size Range: 5–11

Best Knee-High Boots

Aerosoles Micah Boot

The Most Comfortable Knee-High Boots: Aerosoles Micah Boot

DSW

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Boots are the footwear staples of fall and winter wardrobes, and a knee-high boot is a closet must. Heeled boots, however stylish they are, can sometimes leave feet in shambles. Aerosoles’ version looks just as chic as designer offerings but with a bit more innovation. The signature, diamond flex outsole provides grip and comfort by dispersing friction away from the ball of the foot, allowing for comfortable movement day in and day out. Wear these boots with a flowy, mid-length skirt or dress throughout spring and fall barelegged, and then add tights in the winter for extra warmth.

  • Material: Synthetic upper; fabric lining; and rubber sole
  • Colors: Navy, Burgundy, Taupe, Dark Brown +more
  • Size Range: 5–12

Best Winter Boots

UGG Adirondack III Boot

The Most Comfortable Winter Boots: UGG Adirondack III Boot

Nordstrom

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When winter storms hit and snow piles up, a true winter boot is essential for shoveling out the walkway and providing good traction without slips or falls. Most often than not, winter boots can be heavy, hard, and uncomfortable. UGG’s Adirondack boot is a customer favorite, with good reason, thanks to its custom enerG Comfort System footbed, which provides ample cushion for winter needs. Inside, you will also find their ultra-warm wool lining and insole, providing even more coziness to the overall feel. Hitting mid-calf, this boot will keep things in place and dry, whatever inclement weather you face.

  • Material:100% leather with rubber sole
  • Colors: Chestnut, Black, Burnt Cedar/Black +more
  • Size Range: 5–12

Best Slip-Ons

Scarosso Ludovica Loafers

The Most Comfortable Slip-Ons: Scarosso Ludovica Loafers

Scarosso

Buy On Scarosso.com

Scarosso’s hand-crafted footwear is made by skilled artisans in family-run factories in the heart of Italy. Elegance and ease are major parts of the brand’s DNA, and one of its most comfortable styles is undoubtedly the Ludovica. This suede loafer shape is an everyday, slip-on shoe, fashioned from high-quality suede and made to last. A reinforced heel provides balance while the removable insole cushions the foot. A flexible, rubber sole adds resilience as well. We love the dusty pink rose colorway for a classic twist that works well with everything from jeans to a fluid skirt.

  • Material: Suede upper, leather inner, and rubber sole
  • Colors: Pink, tan, gray, white +more
  • Size Range:IT37–IT42

Best Block Heels

Naturalizer True Colors Vera Ankle Strap Sandal

The Most Comfortable Block Heels: Naturalizer True Colors Vera Ankle Strap Sandal

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If you love a little lift or simply have a less casual event to attend, a block heel is a sturdy alternative to a stiletto that adds a bit of class to any outfit. Naturalizer’s core shape, the Vera, is offered in plenty of colorways from neutrals to bolds, and designed with walkability in mind. The Contour+ Comfort technology creates definition, while each layer of the shoe plays a part in providing relief to the feet, from open cell cushioning to arch heel and support relieving pressure. The ankle strap and non-slip outsole will keep things in place while in motion. Pair with a summer dress for a cocktail party or a silky blouse and cropped trousers for work.

  • Material: Leather upper and synthetic lining and sole
  • Colors: Café, Black Leather, Brazil Nut, Cocoa, Dark Gold Metallic +more
  • Size Range:4–12 with additional wide sizing

Best Chelsea Boots

Dr. Martens Flora Chelsea Boot

The Most Comfortable Chelsea Boots: Dr. Martens Flora Chelsea Boot

Dr. Martens

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Dr. Martens’ boots are known for their “bouncing soles,” which were first formulated in 1945 by Dr. Klaus Maertens while recovering from a foot injury. The brand’s trademark, air-cushioned soles were made to provide comfort and support without the use of leather, the main material of the period. The Flora boot is the brand’s Chelsea style, laceless for easy on-and-off capabilities. Style these with a structured mini skirt and knit or jeans and an oversized tee for a relaxed feel, with the added comfort of plush soles.

  • Material: 70% leather, 30% elastic
  • Colors: Black
  • Size Range: 5–11

Best for Water

Merrell Womens Hydro Moc Water Shoe

The Most Comfortable Shoes for Water: Merrell Womens Hydro Moc Water Shoe

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If water sports are your preferred warm-weather activity, look no further than Merrell’s flexible, lightweight, and water-friendly shoe. Made to slip on and off with ease, the BLOOM® performance foam is made of 10% algae biomass and features a flexible, contoured fit that can be worn boating, creek walking, and beachside. Available in some groovy colorways with swirly, tie-dye effects, this is a shoe that screams fun, while being comfortable. Customers rave about the plush feeling that is surprisingly supportive.

  • Material: EVA foam upper
  • Colors: Seamoss/Blush, Burgundy, Black, Orchid +more
  • Size Range:5–11

Best Fashion Sneaker

Off-White Vulcanized Low Top Sneaker

The Best Fashion Sneaker: Off-White Vulcanized Low Top Sneaker

Nordstrom

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If you are looking to splurge on a designer shoe, the best-rated luxe sneaker goes to Off-White. Their vulcanized rubber sole adds traction and bounce for a comfy fit to a classic, low-top canvas sneaker with the designer’s signature street style twist. A removable zip tie and logos aplenty, give this shoe major street style cred. Dress them up with loose trousers and a ribbed tank or a denim mini skirt and bomber jacket for a modern, downtown feel.

  • Material: Textile upper and lining and rubber sole
  • Colors: Black/white and white/black
  • Size Range: 5–12

Best Sandals

Timberland GreenStride Ray City Ankle Strap Sandals

The Best Sandals Shoes: Timberland GreenStride Ray City Ankle Strap Sandals

Timberland

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You might know Timberland for their iconic, workwear boots, but they also make cute shoes in other forms. The Ray City sandal is a flatform shape that is extra cushiony, ideal for long walks and long periods on your feet. Sustainability is top of mind for the brand, and their comfy, GreenStride™ sole is made from a soft foam that is primarily derived from sugar cane and responsibly grown rubber, while the leather upper is manufactured in conjunction with the Leather Working Group. Adjustable, velcro straps are easy to maneuver and the lug sole offers balance. Whether dressed up or down, you will be leaning on these for everyday summer wear.

  • Material: Timberland® leather upper
  • Colors: White,Jet Black, and Tan
  • Size Range: 5.5–9

Best Barefoot

Vivobarefoot Primus Lite III

The Best Barefoot Shoes: Vivobarefoot Primus Lite III

Amazon

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One of the latest in fitness and footwear trends is the “barefoot” sneaker. Vivobarefoot’s Primus Lite III is a trainer that is made with a wider shape and thinner sole, enabling you to feel as close to wearing nothing as possible. These are great for those who need sneakers for wide feet. Since most modern-day shoes don’t encourage your foot’s natural movement patterns or allow your toes to spread, the Vivobarefoot approach challenges traditional footwear shapes, offering a new way to face activities with more stability and flexibility. The lightweight shoe features an Ortholite Performance Insole and is also made from recycled materials, so is an earth-conscious choice, as well. Put these trainers to the test in your next HIIT class, to discover the surprisingly comfortable feel, without extra padding and cushion.

  • Material: Breathable recycled PET Mesh and  rubber sole
  • Colors: Deep Sea Blue, White, Black +more
  • Size Range: 5.5–11.5

Final Verdict

Sneakers are a logical choice but go for styles that are eco-conscious in addition to supportive, like the AllBirds Tree Dasher 2 running sneaker. Flats can be comfortable, with the help of cushioning and the right arch placement, like Reef’s Vista Sandal and Birdies Heron flat. And if you prefer a heel, Nalebe Aurum Mules are chunkier heels that can be found in a variety of heel heights, from lower, kitten shapes to taller stilettos.

What to Look for in Comfortable Shoes

Heel Height

One of the biggest factors can be the shoe’s heel height itself. “Heel height will always be important if you’re looking for comfortable shoes,” Means says. “Lower heel heights offer more comfort than sky-high heels.” She recommends sticking to heel heights below four centimeters with either a chunky heel or platform for comfort and balance. “The bigger the heel composite the more balanced the gait is and that’s so important in maintaining a good posture,” she adds.  This is also important to keep in mind when shopping for comfortable heels.

Toe Shape

Considering the toe shape of the shoe is important in the prevention of further complications. “A roomy toe box gives your feet enough room to breathe and prevents toe cramping, which can otherwise lead to problems like bunions and hammer toes,” Schaeffer explains. Means agrees, pointing out that square or rounded oval toes offer the most space. “Pointy toes will always be standard, but for comfort, I recommend trying out styles in square or round toes. They let your toes spread out without the cramps," she says."

Cushion

“If youre on your feet for long hours, you need a shoe that fits well, and feels like supportive cushions under your feet,” McCulloch says. A cushion provides support and is a must for most comfortable shoes. “Shoes with underfoot cushioning will keep your feet comfortable while protecting them from the impact of walking on hard surfaces,” Schaeffer says. “The best kind of cushioning incorporates shock absorption too.”

Firmness

According to McCulloch, the softness and or firmness of the shoe’s sole and footbed are of great importance when making a comfortable selection. “Im a firm believer in a shoe that has a sole and a footbed that are not too hard and not too soft,” she says. “This is optimal to reduce foot and leg symptoms.” She recommends a footbed that "cradles the heel and supports the arch," as this enables women to carry on with their days with a spring in their step.

Arch Support

“When shopping for comfy shoes, you need to look for underfoot cushioning, arch support, and a roomy toe box,” Schaeffer adds. “Arch support prevents your feet from rolling inwards (pronating) as you walk which is very important for foot health.” Make sure to consider the arch technology before going shopping, especially if youre seeking shoes for high arches.

FAQ

Why are comfortable shoes an important wardrobe choice?

“The most comfortable type of shoe is one that has appropriate support and comfort,” says Dr. Schaeffer, adding that there are many different types of shoes that provide this perfect mix of support and comfort. “It truly depends on your foot type and any underlying issues that you may have. I always tell my patients to get something with a wide toe box, so [their] toes are not squished together.” He also notes how shoes with arch support are also important because they “help with any heel pain and something that has a good cushion can make your feet feel good.”

LEARN MORE: These Are the Best Shoes to Wear If You Have Wide Feet

What is the most comfortable shoe type and why?

Most of the experts agreed when it comes to comfort, there is no one size fits all. “Some prefer flats as their go-to for comfort while others navigate towards chunky platform heels or kitten heels,” Means says. “My preference is often platforms or chunky heels because I’ve worn a lot of flats that have been very uncomfortable because of the bad fit.” McCullouch similarly responded, saying, “This depends on a lot of variables, but shoes with an excellent foundation are key.” Her approach is “No to dead flat shoes, no to shoes that lack cushioning, and lack support contouring. No to high heels that increase pressure under the forefoot. No to shoes that dont hold onto your foot well.” And Schaeffer’s pick is a sneaker. “I like to have a nice athletic sneaker with good arch support,” he says. “This keeps our feet stable and feeling good every step we take.”

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