Amazon/The Zoe Report
For many, shoe shopping can seem like more of a dreaded chore than a leisurely activity — since it can be challenging to find footwear that both suits your style and is actually comfortable at the same time. To help, The Zoe Report spoke with top podiatrists to get their expert recommendations on what to look for in a shoe. Then we did the hard work of bearing these support recommendations in mind while hunting down options that look amazing. Ahead are 35 pairs that are not only cute, but oh-so-comfortable, too.
Platform Mary Janes With A Firm Midsole
VHJ confort Platform Mary Janes
Amazon
Nelya Lobkova, DPM, is a surgical podiatrist, founder of Step Up Footcare in New York City, and a bio-mechanic consultant for KLAWs — and she advises looking at foundational elements first when shoe shopping. “Comfortable shoes should have a firm midsole and insole made of EVA, foam, or cork,” she explains.
To that end, these platform Mary Janes are not only super stylish but have firm midsoles and molded footbeds made from cushioned foam. The hand-stitched soles are super thick to absorb shock, while also lending the pair a throwback ‘90s feel.
Available sizes: 5 — 11Available colors: 13
Memory Foam Sneakers With Lots Of Stretch
PPQ Mesh Memory Foam Sneakers
Amazon
These mesh sneakers are a sporty option with memory foam footbeds that provide comfort and absorb impact. They weigh in at only 0.8 pound for a featherweight feel and the knit uppers are stretchy and breathable. They’re available in options with white soles as well as monochrome styles.
Available sizes: 6 — 11Available colors: 10
Cork Clogs That Come In So Many Unique Styles
DREAM PAIRS Cork Clogs
Amazon
Per Dr. Lobkova’s advice, these clogs feature firm midsoles with an insole made of suede-covered cork, which molds to the unique contours of your feet over time for custom support. The 0.25-inch platform offers a bit of lift, while the gold-tone buckle is adjustable for a comfortable fit. They come in a variety of fun upper options, like denim, synthetic leather, corduroy, and cozy wool.
Available sizes: 5 — 12 (wide widths available)Available colors: 15
Sleek Loafers That Absorb Impact
LifeStride Zendaya Loafer
Amazon
Sleek and simple, these loafers are an ideal work shoe, but also look great paired with denim. They feature thick, shock-absorbing soles with traction, along with memory foam cushioning inside. The upper is made from faux leather for a sophisticated vibe.
Available sizes: 5 — 11 (wide widths available)Available colors: black, navy
Closed-Toe Sandals Made With Memory Foam & Cork
Athlefit Closed-Toe Sandals
Amazon
These closed-toe sandals feature vegan leather uppers and adjustable ankle straps that ensure a secure, custom fit. The cork and memory foam footbeds offers both comfort and arch support, while the wide toe box gives feet space to spread out. Available in four colors, they look great with denim, dresses, and shorts.
Available sizes: 5.5 — 11Available colors: 4
Retro Sneakers With Impact-Reducing Soles
DREAM PAIRS Nia Low-Tops
Amazon
“Shock absorption helps disperse pressure when walking on hard surfaces,” says podiatrist Adenike Sonaike, DPM, of Baker Street Podiatry in New Jersey. “Pick a thick, cushioned sole that has minimal flexibility but bends at the big toe joint,” she advises.
These retro-inspired low-top sneakers fit the bill, thanks to their durable rubber soles that offer reliable traction. These kicks featuring a two-tone design made from vegan suede and leather, while the classic lace-up closure and round toe provide a secure fit.
Available sizes: 6 — 11Available colors: 5
Platform Loafers With Cushy Memory Foam
CLARKBLRG Memory Foam Loafers
Amazon
Another good pick for shock absorption, these platform loafers boast lug soles for an edgy take on the classic style. The uppers are made from premium leather, while the removable memory foam insoles add arch support. They’re detailed with a waxen gold thread for an elevated look.
Available sizes: 6 — 11Available colors: 11
Bouncy Walking Sneakers With Lots Of Shock Absorption
NORTIV 8 Walking Sneakers
Amazon
These slip-on walking sneakers offer step-in convenience, so you won’t have to bend down or sit to get them on — and the soft, buoyant soles provide lots of impact absorption. They’re made with foam insoles and skin-friendly Lycra mesh lining for plush comfort. The knitted upper offers ventilation to keep feet feeling fresh.
Available sizes: 6 — 11Available colors: 8
Classic Mary Janes With Treaded Soles
VHJ confort Mary Jane
Amazon
Boasting a classic silhouette, these Mary Janes feature patent-leather accents for a chic yet neutral everyday look. The soles are thick and durable, while the adjustable hook-and-loop closure provides a snug fit. Inside, you’ll find a breathable textile lining and cushioned foam insole for arch support.
Available sizes: 6 — 10Available colors: 3
Zip-Up Ankle Boots With Memory Foam Insoles
Ataiwee Memory Foam Ankle Boots
Amazon
These memory foam ankle boots provide plenty of cushioning and have a slip-on style, with zippers on each side. The faux leather shoes are available in 10 colors like black, gray, and reddish brown. The soles are waterproof for any weather, and they look great paired with your favorite jeans.
Available sizes: 6 — 13Available colors: 10
Knit Sneakers With Air-Cushioned Soles
Mishansha Air-Cushioned Sneakers
Amazon
Speaking of shock absorption, these air-cushioned sneakers are designed for both comfort and performance. Featuring a breathable knitted upper, these kicks boast air-filled soles for next-level impact reduction. They have built-in arch support and a soft inner lining.
Available sizes: 5.5 — 11Available colors: 19
Leather Loafers With Sturdy Soles
VenusCelia Walking Loafer
Amazon
Lightweight and easy to slip-into, these walking loafers can be worn with the backs up or folded down for a mule-like fit. With a soft leather upper available in 14 colors, they have a padded insole for support and a textured rubber bottom for secure steps and impact reduction. Pair them with denim, trousers, or your favorite leggings.
Available sizes: 5 — 11Available colors: 14
Classic adidas Sneakers Made With Recycled Materials
adidas Park Street Sneaker
Amazon
The Park Street Sneaker by adidas has delightfully retro vibes, making it a perfect go-to shoe you can wear with pretty much anything. With uppers that are made from 50% recycled materials, these tennis shoes boast cushioned midsoles and durable rubber outsoles for a secure grip. Choose from colors like white, pink, and lavender.
Available sizes: 6 — 11Available colors: 5
Casual Loafers That Go With Anything
Skechers Urban Spell Loafer
Amazon
With a monochromatic design available in five neutral colors, you can rock the Urban Spell loafers by Skechers with any casual look. These slip-ons have folded toe caps and cushioned memory foam insoles for comfort. You can’t go wrong with black, or you can opt for a softer color like light taupe.
Available sizes: 5 — 11Available colors: 5
Slip-On Sneakers With Lots Of Cushioning
STQ Knit Sneakers
Amazon
These slip on knit sneakers are like walking on clouds, but even better. Made with soft, lightweight, and stretchy uppers, they have soft heel cushioning and adjustable lace-up closures for a secure, custom fit. They also have removable arch-supporting memory foam insoles and a durable outsole for traction and more support.
Available sizes: 6 — 9.5Available colors: 6
Sneakers With Memory Foam Footbeds
Skechers Face Off Sneaker
Amazon
Another great sneaker option are these Face Off sneakers with memory foam footbeds and thick rubber outsoles. They’re a popular pick with reviewers who have awarded them a 4.5-star overall rating; one wrote, “I have to recommend these to everyone, I feel like I’m walking on pillows with each step and I still haven’t seen any wear or tear.” Wear them all day long with a casual jeans and a T-shirt look or rock them in the gym while you work out.
Available sizes: 5 — 11 (wide widths available)Available colors: 20
“Flats” That Actually Have Durable Soles
LifeStride Diverse Slip-On Shoes
Amazon
Every shoe wardrobe needs a reliable set of flats, and these slip-on flats are not only versatile, but comfy and supportive, too. Complete with soft foam insoles, they have sewn-in arch support and sturdy rubber outsoles. The criss-cross straps in front add a little extra style.
Available sizes: 5—12 (narrow, wide, and extra-wide widths available)Available colors: 12
Mesh Flats That Are So Lightweight
LEDINEY Mesh Walking Flats
Amazon
Dr. Lobkova notes, “I like soft materials for the upper of the shoe so that the delicate skin over the top of the foot is not irritated…” She recommends leather or mesh, explaining, “These materials are durable, hold shape well, yet are lightweight.”
These mesh walking flats are made with a stretchy knit that’s soft and breathable, so they’ll be gentle on feet per Dr. Lobkova’s advice. A sturdy EVA outsole offers a nonslip grip, while the padded heel helps prevent blisters and ensures a comfy fit. Wear them to the office or with your favorite pair of denim.
Available sizes: 6 — 11.5Available colors: 6
Low-Profile Loafers Made From Leather
aerosoles Betunia Loafer
Amazon
These loafers by Aerosoles have a simple silhouette that lets the rest of your look shine. Made from leather, they’re soft to the touch and soft on your feet, while the Ortholite foam insoles add support. Besides this classic black style, they also come in leopard print, stripes, and a quilted textile option.
Available sizes: 5 — 12 (wide widths available)Available colors: 29
Casual Leather Sneakers In 20+ Colors
adidas Advantage Sneaker
Amazon
These tennis shoes by adidas combine style and casual comfort. They feature a soft, durable leather upper for flexibility and a snug, supportive fit with their lace-up closure. They also have a Cloudfoam sockliner, ensuring lightweight cushioning and step-in comfort, while the rubber outsole delivers excellent grip.
Available sizes: 5 — 11Available colors: 23
Mesh Sneakers That Make Socks Optional
Giniros Mesh Sneakers
Amazon
Offering a balance of style and comfort, these monochromatic mesh sneakers have a slip-on design, but still have adjustable laces that help you achieve a custom fit. They have a soft inner lining that lets you rock them with or without socks, while the breathable mesh upper keeps you cool and dry. They’re lightweight, shock absorbing, and have a nonslip rubber sole, too.
Available sizes: 5.5 — 10.5Available colors: 8
Leather Loafers With A Small Stacked Heel
Talenava Leather Loafer Heels
Amazon
These slip-on leather loafers elevate any ensemble while being buttery soft and comfortable enough for all-day wear. The material gently stretches for a custom fit, while the cushioned padding ensures all-day comfort. They also have grooved rubber soles for traction, and the heel offers some lift, making them perfect for nicer outfits.
Available sizes: 6 — 11Available colors: 13
Ballet Flats Made With Soft Knit Fabric
DEARFOAMS Misty Ballet Flat
Amazon
The perfect shoe for both work and casual days, these ballet flats have a durable rubber outsole for added shock absorption and stability. The flexible knit upper is available in six colors and enhances breathability, so your feet are kept cool and ventilated. They’re also built with arch support and a soft quilted lining.
Available sizes: 6 — 11Available colors: 6
Cork Clogs With Lots Of Arch Support
geabal Suede Buckle Clogs
Amazon
“Arch support […] provides comfort and reduces foot instability and ligament pain,” says Dr. Sonaike. Dr. Lobkova also notes the importance of this feature: “By feeling the presence of something under our arch, we automatically roll our foot outward as we walk and keep the foot in a more favorable position.”
These slip-on clogs have a soft, suede-like texture that elevate the classic look, along with exposed stitching and stylish buckles on top. They’re complete with memory foam insoles and arch support, as well as sturdy cork outsoles and generously sized toe boxes.
Available sizes: 5 —11Available colors: 3
Arch-Support Loafers With Buckles
VERDASCO Buckle Loafers
Amazon
A great wear-to-work option, these faux leather flats have a chic buckle detail that instantly elevates any outfit. They’re designed with a round toe for a roomy fit, and have cushioned memory foam insoles with arch support. A soft canvas lining keeps feet dry and fresh, while a lightweight rubber outsole delivers traction and durability.
Available sizes: 6 —13 (wide and extra-wide widths available)Available colors: 19
Classic White Sneakers That Are Supportive, Too
Vepose Arch-Support Sneakers
Amazon
An all-white tennis shoe is a must-have, regardless of your style, and these arch-support sneakers are the perfect pair. They have slip-resistant soles for secure footing, plus soft lining and an arch-support insole for comfort and support. Complete with an adjustable lace-up design, these low-top sneakers have endless versatility, pairing with everything from jeans to mini skirts.
Available sizes: 6 — 11Available colors: 15
Sneakers With Extra Arch Support & Cushioning
STQ Mesh Arch Support Sneakers
Amazon
Made with stretchy and breathable mesh uppers, these arch-support sneakers will quickly become your go-to for casual workouts and daily wear. These shoes are designed with lots of cushioning to disperse impact with each step and help prevent foot fatigue. They also offer a convenient slip-on design and built-in arch support insoles, complete with moisture-wicking properties.
Available sizes: 6 — 9.5Available colors: 8
Ballet Flats With Contoured Insoles
LifeStride Northern Ballet Flat
Amazon
Another great option for daily wear are these ballet flats made with arch-contoured insoles. They have faux leather uppers with just the right amount of stretch and are topped with a crossover design for an elevated look. They’re also made with recycled materials in the toe box and heel.
Available sizes: 5 — 12 ( narrow and wide widths available)Available colors: 4
Walking Sneakers With A Firm Heel Counter
ALLSWIFIT Move Plush Walking Sneakers
Amazon
“Another test for a comfortable shoe is by squeezing the back of the shoe, or the heel counter. This part of the shoe lends additional stability in the frontal plane, or side to side motion,” explains Dr. Lobkova.
The backs of these plush walking sneakers have a cushioned, firm heel counter, adorned with reflective strips for improved visibility at night. They have a shock-absorbing midsole for extra cushioning that helps to reduce pressure on your joints, while the A-shaped outsole adds stability and reduces impact.
Available sizes: 6 — 11Available colors: 3
Old School Reeboks That Support Stability
Reebok Court Advance Sneaker
Amazon
These unisex sneakers have that classic Reebok look and that’s the icing on top their comfortable and durable construction. Available in an impressive 40 colors, they have perforated toe boxes for ventilation and firm heel counters that are padded for comfort. On the inside, you’ll find lightweight memory foam cushioning for support.
Available sizes: 5 — 15.5 (wide widths available)Available colors: 40
Lightweight Slip-Ons With Padding To Prevent Blisters
DEARFOAMS Sophie Sneaker
Amazon
There’s more to the heel than just stability, it turns out. “Padding at the cuff (above the heel counter) of the shoe prevents blisters and skin irritation near your ankle and achilles tendon when wearing shoes for long periods of time,” Dr. Sonaike explains.
These lightweight slip-on sneakers have padding at the cuff, just as Dr. Sonaike recommends. They also have contoured footbeds for support and EVA outsoles for shock absorption and flexibility. They weigh under 0.8 pound and are available in 24 colors to suit any style.
Available sizes: 6 — 11Available colors: 24
adidas Sneakers With Cushioned Heel Cuffs
adidas Lite Racer 4.0 Sneakers
Amazon
These Lite Racer 4.0 Sneakers by adidas look as comfortable as they feel. Made with Cloudfoam technology, they’re lightweight and supportive, with a breathable textile upper. A rubber outsole adds traction and stability, while padding at the cuff prevents irritation. The shoes are complete with the brand’s iconic side stripes.
Available sizes: 5 — 11Available colors: 9
Ballet Flats That Are Cushioned & Supportive
DREAM PAIRS Supportive Ballet Flat
Amazon
Whether you wear these supportive ballet flats to work, on a date, or for a day spent running errands, rest assured you’ll be comfortable and supported. They have cushioned foam insoles with sewn-in arch support, along with padded heel cuffs per Dr. Sonaike’s advice. And unlike most ballet flats, the durable outsoles offer increased stability and traction.
Available sizes: 6 — 11Available colors: 11
Low-Profile Sneaks With Padding
Rocket Dog Plush Foam Sneakers
Amazon
These low-profilesneakers were made with comfort as a top priority, complete with a cushioned foam insole, super soft lining, and a padded back heel. They have a nonslip outsole and a simple, unassuming design, complete with a rounded toe box and textile upper. The best part? They’re available in 29 different colors to suit every style and mood.
Available sizes: 6 — 12Available colors: 29
Bouncy Walking Sneakers With Air-Cooled Insoles
Skechers Go Walk Joy Sneaker
Amazon
Pretty much synonymous with comfort, Skechers has gone and done it again with these Go Walk Joy sneakers. They have an air-cooled insole for indulgent cushioning that won’t overheat, and an elastic lace closure for a slip-on style that still fits securely. They’re available in eight colors and are machine washable for easy maintenance, too.
Available sizes: 5 — 13 (wide widths available)Available colors: 8
