Spring-ready footwear recommendations from fashion experts and editors:
In the world of fashion, finding shoes that are both comfortable and stylish is like finding the pot of gold at the end of the rainbow. But fear not, dear shopper, for we've done the legwork to bring you the crème de la crème of comfy heels, flats, sneakers, and loafers. No more sacrificing your feet's wellbeing for the sake of style!
As brands continue to reimagine beloved silhouettes with added cushioning, support, and even podiatrist-approved designs, the days of settling for uncomfortable shoes are long gone. Taissha G. LaReau, a wardrobe consultant and stylist, succinctly puts it: "A great pair of shoes should feel as good as it looks." Comfort, it turns out, comes down to fit, materials, and support. And well-made shoes should feel amazing from the get-go - no painful break-in period required.
With the season of spring fashion swaps fast approaching, we tapped into the wisdom of stylists, podiatrists, and our own editors to uncover their favorite comfortable shoes that keep feet looking and feeling fresh. Here's what we discovered:
Women's Comfortable Heels
Naturalizer Imogen Dress Sandals
If a brand-new pair of spring sandals is calling your name, consider the Naturalizer Imogen Dress Sandals, championed by style coach Samantha Dawn. This brand is a favorite among many stylists we consulted, and for good reason - all Naturalizer shoes are designed to fit the contours of a woman's foot. Plus, they offer inclusive options to accommodate feet of all widths and sizes. Priced at $75 at Nordstrom Rack, $80 at Naturalizer, and $99 at Macy's, these sandals are a stylish and affordable addition to your spring wardrobe.
Frankie4 Kennedy Mules
Step into the office or an evening out with these chic mules from Frankie4. Their podiatrist-designed footbeds offer essential support and comfort, making them a fantastic choice for a chic, slip-on alternative to flats or heels. Wardrobe consultant Taissha G. LaReau raves about their woven leather straps and block heels, which ensure stability and all-day comfort. Available at Nordstrom for $188 and Frankie4 for $188, these mules are a worthy investment for your spring wardrobe.
Ally Shoes Slingback Kitten Heels
Dubbed "freakishly comfortable" by style coach Samantha Dawn, these heels from Ally Shoes are designed with style and pain-free wear in mind. Crafted with a podiatric expert on their design team, Ally Shoes ensures its shoes can handle all-day wear, making these slingback heels a must-have for your collection. With over 25 colors to choose from, plus four width options and half-sizes ranging from a US 4 to a US 12, there's a perfect pair out there for you. Grab a pair at Ally Shoes for $325.
Naturalizer Vera Dress Sandals
The Vera sandals from Naturalizer earned recommendations from stylists Joy Asibey-Gabriel and Allison Berlin. With a classic, minimal look, the ankle straps and block heels offer foot support, while the gamut of neutral and metallic finishes makes these sandals a versatile choice for dressier occasions. You can find them at Amazon, Nordstrom, DSW, and Naturalizer, priced from $100 to $110.
Sam Edelman Bianka Slingback Pumps
Kitten heels are here to stay, and these Sam Edelman pumps are the perfect choice for the woman who loves heels but doesn't have it in her to wear 4- or 5-inch heels every day. These versatile pumps come in over 25 finishes, including leather, faux leather, suede, mesh, and lace, making them the ideal accent for office or streetwear outfits. Get your hands on a pair at Amazon for $72 or Nordstrom, where prices start from $56.
Margaux The City Sandals
Margaux is a brand that many of our experts highly recommend, and their strappy sandals with 5 millimeters of comfy foam padding and 2.5-inch heels are an easy walk in the park. Style coach Alex Lamb also adores the equally flattering Cleo Sandals from the brand, which boast even slimmer, daintier straps. Find your perfect pair at Margaux for $345.
Women's Comfortable Sneakers
Onitsuka Tiger Mexico 66
Personal stylist Samantha Dawn praises these everyday Onitsuka Tiger shoes for their low-profile vibe and added OrthoLite soles that provide even more comfort. If you're a fan of the Adidas Sambas sneakers, you'll love this modern take. Grab a pair at Amazon for $178, Onitsuka Tiger for $155, or explore related articles for more options.
Naturalizer Morrison Sneakers
Spring is the ideal time to upgrade your trusty pair of white kicks, and these sleek sneakers from Naturalizer are just the ticket. "These are go-with-everything white sneakers, and they are super comfy," says stylist Dacy Gillespie. "I've worn and recommended these Naturalizer sneakers for years." With prices starting from $50 at Amazon, Macy's, Nordstrom, and Naturalizer, these sneakers are a stylish and budget-friendly choice for spring.
Hoka Bondi 8 Running Shoes
Need a supportive running shoe for long walks or standing all day? Look no further than the Hoka Bondi 8 running shoes. Testing and updates writer Michelle Rae Uy named these the best shoes for standing all day, thanks to their ultra-cushioned bases that absorb shock and keep your feet feeling refreshed hour after hour. Find them at Nordstrom for $132, Dick's Sporting Goods for $112, or Hoka for $116.
New Balance 327 Sneakers
New Balance has undergone something of a reinvention over the last couple of years, and today it produces some of the most on-trend (and comfortable) sneakers around. "I love the classic retro look of these sneakers," Asibey-Gabriel says. "They're comfortable, stylish, and modern. I'd pair them with a pair of cropped jeans or trousers." Underscored updates writer Ellen McAlpine is also a fan, noting that the 574 Core style is an under-$100 pick that she keeps in her daily rotation. Grab a pair at Zappos, Foot Locker, or New Balance for $100.
Vionic Kearny Platform Lace-Up Sneakers
Combining the comfort provided by Vionic shoes with added height, these platform sneakers have the APM’s Seal of Acceptance for promoting good foot health. Perfect for everyday fashion, these sneakers are a great choice if you're looking for comfortable, chic sneakers. Find them at Amazon for $65, Nordstrom for $130, DSW for $130, or Vionic for $130.
Asics GT-2160
These supportive "dad shoes" from Asics offer style and substance, with Asics' signature SpEVA foam midsole providing enhanced cushioning. Personal stylist Samantha Dawn and deals editor Jacqueline Saguin are both fans, with Saguin praising their versatility for fashion and fitness. Shop for them at Anthropologie, Urban Outfitters, or Asics for $120.
Women's Comfortable Flats
Vionic Alameda Mary Jane Flats
Traditional ballet flats can be a hit or miss when it comes to comfort, but these Vionic Mary Jane flats break the mold with adjustable straps, arch support, and two removable insoles included with each pair, allowing you to customize the fit to suit your feet. Style coach Megan LaRussa Chenoweth is also a fan, noting that these flats provide comfort without sacrificing style. Grab a pair at Amazon, Zappos, Vionic, or DSW for prices ranging from $130 to $135.
Rothy's The Emblem Point II
Featuring the brand's signature comfort insoles and made of eco-friendly, machine-washable knit material, these pointed-toe flats from Rothy's are chic and easy to clean. Personal stylist Alex Lamb appreciates the simple style and versatility of Rothy's shoes, making them great choices for travel. Get your hands on a pair at Rothy's or Nordstrom for $165.
Margaux The Phoebe
With a streamlined, elegant silhouette, the Phoebe flats by Margaux are a perfect everyday staple. They're available in black, bone, and leopard options, plus half-sizes and extended width options. Joy Asibey-Gabriel considers Margaux a go-to brand for finding fashionable styles that mix and match well. Find your perfect pair at Margaux for $320.
Everlane Day Glove Flats
Lightweight, breathable, and great for all-day wear, the Everlane Day Glove Flats are a comfortable choice for those seeking style and substance. Available in 14 shades with leather and suede finishes, these versatile flats loosen and mold to the shape of your feet, making them a smart choice for everyday wear. Shop for them at Everlane for $138.
Gentle Souls by Kenneth Cole Helen Slingback Sandals
Neutral flats with adjustable straps and removable cushioned insoles make the perfect everyday shoe. Recommended by style coach Megan LaRussa Chenoweth, these strappy sandals by Kenneth Cole offer the versatility to work with jeans, skirts, and dresses. Find them at Amazon, Nordstrom, Zappos, and Bloomingdale's for prices ranging from $42 to $189.
Birkenstock Arizona Essentials EVA Slide Sandals
These Birkenstock sandals made from EVA plastic are a comfortable, affordable, and fun choice for spring adventures. With an array of colors to choose from, you're sure to find a pair that suits your style. Underscored fashion and beauty editor Sophie Shaw is also a fan of Birkenstock's other EVA models, especially the clogs, perfect for slipping on for quick errands, coffee runs, or strolls. Grab a pair at Nordstrom, REI, DSW, or Dick's Sporting Goods for $50.
Women's Comfortable Loafers and Clogs
Vionic Uptown Loafers
Versatile loafers that can be worn with a range of outfits and offer the benefits of orthotic shoes make a smart choice for those seeking fashionable comfort. Recommended by personal stylist Asibey-Gabriel, these Vionic loafers are a stylish yet functional option. Shop for them at Nordstrom, Amazon, Zappos, or Vionic for prices ranging from $97 to $130.
Charlotte Stone Martino
Personal stylist Gillespie has had great success with these low-heel clogs from Charlotte Stone. With multiple colorful suede styles and a memory foam insole, these clogs offer style and comfort. Shop for them at Anthropologie or Charlotte Stone for $214 and $228, respectively.
The Walking Company ABEO Boulevard Loafers
If you're seeking a minimalist option, these lightweight loafers from The Walking Company offer both style and support, thanks to their built-in orthotics that make them ideal for long days on your feet. Read our review if you'd like to learn more. Shop for them at Amazon, Nordstrom, and The Walking Company for $170.
Vivaia Audrey Round-Toe Embroidered Loafers
Personal stylist Asibey-Gabriel considers these loafers a top recommendation for clients looking for comfortable, statement flats with bold colors and a wide toe box. Shop for them at Vivaia or Amazon for prices starting from $97. If you'd prefer a platform option, Vivaia also offers chunkier penny loafers.
Sam Edelman Loraine Bit Loafers
These Sam Edelman loafers, praised for their structure and flexibility, are a polished and comfortable choice for styling up or down. With over 24 prints, textures, and finishes to choose from, there's a pair to suit your taste. Find them at Nordstrom, Amazon, or Bloomingdale's for prices ranging from $68 to $150.
Freda Salvador Morgan Boat Shoes
If you're looking to make a fashion-forward statement with your footwear, these boat shoes are a great high-fashion choice. Featuring 100% Italian leather, padded leather footbeds, and a design that softens to the shape of your feet, these trendy boat shoes will keep your feet feeling fresh all day. Shop for them at Freda Salvador for $295.
Men's Comfortable Shoes
Allbirds Wool Runners
For a lightweight, low-profile shoe that doesn't require socks, the Allbirds Wool Runners are a top pick. With a fashionable and functional design, these shoes offer plenty of traction for walking all day. Read our review to learn more. Shop for them at Allbirds, Amazon, or Zappos for $78 to $98.
Hoka Clifton 9 Running Shoes
For men seeking shoes with superior cushioning and support, the Hoka Clifton 9 running shoes are an outstanding choice. Offering a wide range of colors and comfortable fit, these shoes are suitable for both running and standing all day. Shop for them at Hoka, Zappos, or REI for prices starting from $116.
Birkenstock Boston Soft Footbed Clogs
These clogs provide exceptional arch support and are perfect for warm weather. As recommended by wardrobe consultant LaReau, these clogs are comfortable, affordable, and available in a variety of fun colors. Read our review to learn more. Shop for them at Nordstrom, Backcountry, REI, and Zappos for prices starting from $120.
New Balance 990v6
With six inclusive width options and the APM’s Seal of Approval, these New Balance sneakers are ideal for those with flat feet or anyone seeking a supportive shoe. Recommended by podiatric surgeon Priya Parthasarathy, these shoes cater to a variety of foot types and provide stability for everyday wear. Shop for them at Zappos, Dick's Sporting Goods, and New Balance for prices starting from $200.
Dr. Martens Adrian Arcadia Leather Tassel Loafers
For a stylish and durable option, the Dr. Martens Adrian Arcadia Leather Tassel Loafers are a great option. These loafers offer a subtle pop of color to make jeans, trousers, and dresses look more refined. Shop for them at Dr. Martens, Zappos, or Nordstrom for $150.
Hoka Transport
These shoes from Hoka Transport offer stylish, minimalist design while catering to city dwellers. Featuring removable inserts, these sneakers provide comfort and flexibility. Shop for them at Nordstrom, Hoka, and Zappos for prices starting from $120.
Kizik Vegas
These sneakers include removable insoles and foam outsoles for comfort, and their unique hands-free feature allows you to pop them on in seconds. Shop for them at Kizik or Amazon for prices starting from $109.
Rothy's The Oxford
These machine-washable, washable knit shoes offer a classic, versatile style for everyday wear. With cushioned insoles, these shoes provide welcome relief for your feet, while their eco-friendly construction adds an extra touch of feel-good fashion. Shop for them at Amazon or Rothy's for $189.
Salomon Gender-Inclusive XT-6 Sneakers
These versatile sneakers offer superior traction and stylish design for both city and trail adventures. Featuring ultragrippy soles and streetwear-inspired style, these sneakers are a smart choice for men seeking stylish, comfortable shoes for everyday wear. Shop for them at Nordstrom, Salomon, or Saks Fifth Avenue for prices starting from $180.
Adidas Gender-Inclusive Samba Sneakers
These iconic sneakers have stood the test of time, offering a classic design and versatile style that can be paired with just about anything. With timeless style and comfortable construction, Adidas Samba Sneakers are a worthy addition to any wardrobe. Shop for them at Nordstrom, Dick's Sporting Goods, and Foot Locker for prices starting from $75.
Ahnu Sequence 1 Mid
These sneakers combine style and function, featuring the PEBA foam, rocker, and carbon plates found in popular Hoka sneakers. Offering a more fashion-focused alternative, these sneakers cater to those seeking comfort and style without the high price tag of Hoka sneakers. Shop for them at Ahnu or Paragon Sports for $240.
What to Look for in Comfortable Shoes
When shopping for comfortable shoes, it's essential to prioritize size, width, and fit. As Taissha G. LaReau, wardrobe consultant and stylist, points out, pitfalls like compromising on the fit of shoes to accommodate a love for their look can result in uncomfortable shoes that languish in the closet.
Podiatrist Priya Parthasarathy advises looking for shoes that cannot be folded completely in half, as this is a sign of weak support. Additionally, having a good cushion beneath your foot and a firm, supportive heel counter will help absorb shock and reduce strain on the ankles, heels, and toes. Removable insoles and adjustable features like laces, buckles, or elastics can also help customize the fit of the shoes to your feet. If you struggle with shoes feeling too tight, opt for styles with more rounded toe boxes to accommodate your feet better.
FAQs
The perceived comfort level of a pair of shoes depends more on your foot shape than anything else. A narrow toe box may suit narrow feet but be uncomfortable for wider feet, and vice versa. Additionally, shoes should feel comfortable as soon as you put them on, with no break-in period required. For more extensive information, check out our FAQs, answered by podiatric surgeon Dr. Priya Parthasarathy.
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In the realm of fashion, comfortable footwear is becoming increasingly popular, with brands like Naturalizer gravitating towards making shoes that cater to both lifestyle and affordability. For instance, the Naturalizer Imogen Dress Sandals, championed by style coach Samantha Dawn, offer a stylish and affordable addition to women's spring wardrobes. Crossing over into office wear, Frankie4's mules are designed by podiatrists, making them a chic and supportive alternative to flats or heels.
Fashion-and-beauty enthusiasts who appreciate a more active lifestyle will find comfort in shoes like the Hoka Bondi 8 running shoes, ideal for long walks or standing all day, or the Onitsuka Tiger Mexico 66 sneakers, praised for their low-profile vibe and added OrthoLite soles for enhanced comfort.
The home-and-garden segment also recognizes the importance of comfort, with brands like Vionic designing shoes with orthotic properties, such as the Uptown Loafers, which are versatile and fashionable for various outfits. On the other hand, food-and-drink connoisseurs may appreciate the chic and comfortable Rothy's The Emblem Point II flats, ideal for pairing with their casual outfits.
In essence, whether it's the workplace, a night out, home improvement projects, or a casual coffee run, finding comfortable footwear that matches one's lifestyle and personal preferences is now a priority in the ever-evolving fashion industry.
