Whether you’re on your feet long hours for work or you’re planning a trip where a lot of walking will be involved, it’s crucial to find a pair of comfortable shoes that won’t leave you in agony. The problem? Most of the “comfortable” footwear for women have not exactly been designed with aesthetics in mind.
The good news is that a number of new (and more old-school brands) have super comfy shoes for standing for long periods of time—it just takes a bit of research to figure out which are the best.
Below, you’ll find a number of different categories: the most comfortable sneakers for travel, comfortable booties for standing for long periods of time, comfortable dress shoes for work, comfortable sandals for walking, and the best shoes for nurses.
I know that it can be overwhelming to find and buy shoes that fit just right without sacrificing style, so I’ve done the legwork to round up the best of the best. These picks are a combination of shoes that I personally own and love, as well as recommendations from the trust-wrothy #SilbSquad.
Regardless of the occasion you need a comfy pair of shoes, I’m sure you’ll find something you love (and that your feet do too!) in this post. Happy shopping!
The Best Shoes For Standing All Day
The Most Comfortable Walking Sneakers
for Travel
1. Allbirds Women’s Wool Runners
Look familiar? These popular sneakers were highly talked about on social media when they first hit the market, and now you can spot them just about everywhere. The Allbirds’ superfine merino wool sneakers bring comfort to a whole new level.
When you wear these shoes, it truly feels like you are wearing a cozy slipper, but with a bit more support and structure. The wool is soft and not itchy, so you can rock these sock-free sneakers with your bare feet if that’s your thing.
Perfect for traveling, Allbirds’ wool runners are lightweight, breathable, durable and water-resistant.
Side note: If you prefer to wear socks with your shoes or you’re going to be walking a lot, I can’t recommend these socks enough. They have been my go-to for years.
2. Adidas Ultraboost Light Shoes
Offering all day support and comfort, the Adidas Ultraboost running sneaker is an absolute essential for a jam packed day on your feet.
With a breathable mesh upper knit and the signature Adidas three side stripe design, what’s not to love? This sporty style sneaker has midsole cushioning that adds comfort and cuteness to each step.
These kicks come in a ton of color and design options, ranging from vibrant pink to classic black and white. I love that they can easily be worn on an everyday basis but can also double up as actual running/gym shoes.
3. ECCO Soft 7 Sneaker
With built-in arch support, this sneaker will keep your feet looking chic and feeling comfy. One Nordstrom customer raved, “I have 4 pairs of these for travel (black, white, cashmere and recently blue). The classic sneaker that works with outfits and does not compromise long walks like 10 miles.”
And another said, “Any of these soft 7 shoes are a dream. I am 58 with troublesome feet. I can wear these to walk, shop or go to the zoo with my grandkids…comfort meets style! Had the black ones first, and had to go for the brown pair too.”
PRO TIP: In the market for socks? I’m obsessed with these from Bombas. I literally never buy socks from another brand. If you prefer a no-show sock, these are the ones I’d recommend! They don’t slide down and they fit like a glove—a win-win! Code SILBSQUAD20 will get you 20% off your order.
4. Sam Edelman Ethyl Low Top Sneakers
White sneakers are one of the best closet staples—they also happen to be super comfortable if you pick the right pair. These lace-up Sam Edelman sneakers have a strong structure to offer support while still maintaining a forgiving, soft sole.
I have shared this exact pair of shoes soooo many times in different blog posts, gift guides, and on my Instagram and the one underlying takeaway is that they are insanely comfortable.
One reviewer noted that “not only do they feel fantastic all day on my feet but they go with any type of outfit.“
5. Josef Seibel Caren Sneakers
These leather sneakers look super rich but come at a surprisingly affordable price point. I love that they come in six different color options if you want something more unique than white.
Reviewers have boasted about their comfort and have noted that they hold up to the test of time. Other highlights include:
“They are comfortable from the moment you put them on, no break in period.”
“I have “difficult” feet…to the point that I am embarrassed to admit how many pairs of sneakers I have bought and returned because as soon as I put them on, I knew they wouldn’t work. These are comfortable right out of the box (just about a miracle in my case) and even after being in them all day, they remain reasonably comfortable.”
“From the minute I put them on, it seemed that I was walking on a cushion and the fit was fantastic.”
The Most Comfortable Boots for Standing All Day
6. Everlane Glove Boot
Sustainable, sleek, and stylish? Say no more. These two-inch stacked Everlane booties are made of polyester, nylon, and 100% Italian leather. Fans of this bootie rave about its durability, comfort level, and timeless style.
Easily transition into fall and winter, and elevate any look with this heel that comes in black, bone, and a pretty dark brown colorway. These would be great to wear to a concert or with a pair of black skinny jeans.
7. Rothy’s Lug Boot
Rothy’s, which are made from a stretchy knit material, are known to be comfy since they contour to your foot and stay in place rather than slip down while you walk. I’m sure you’ve seen their flats before, but these boots are an equally smart pick if you’re looking for shoes that won’t make your feet hurt.
They’re water resistant and are made with a blend of premium merino wool which will keep your feet warm and toasty throughout unfavorable weather. If you live in a city that has a true winter season, or if you’re traveling somewhere cold, these lug boots are a must.
8. UGG Classic Short Boots
Are there any shoes more comfortable than UGG boots? As the weather gets colder, you may be tempted to purchase a pair, and luckily, they’ve recently made quite the comeback.
These classic shearling boots will keep your feet comfy and cozy throughout the fall and winter. Wear them with black jeans and a blanket scarf to a football game or the farmers market. They also make a great airport day or road trip boot.
During the holiday season, these can be hard to find in stock, so if you see a pair in your size, snag them while you can!
9. Stuart Weitzman 5050 Boots
If you’ve followed me for quite some time then you likely know how much I love these over-the-knee boots. I’m actually so obsessed that I have an entire blog post dedicated to my review on them.
When I tell you they’re comfortable, I’m not exaggerating: I’ve worn them for 10-hour work days. I’ve worn them to events where I was on my feet all night. I’ve even worn them in the winter to run around New York City—and I have never once felt uncomfortable in them.
They look insanely cute with jeans and a sweater for casual events but also can be dressed up with a pair of tights and a skirt for more festive occasions.
The Most Comfortable Dress Shoes for Work
10. Birdies The Starling Smoking Slipper
I can personally vouch for this cult-favored shoe brand. I love them so much that I own 4 pairs. They are the perfect shoe to wear when you want to be comfortable, but also need to look pulled together and professional.
The footbed has a silky, quilted cushioning that I’ve previously described as “walking on a pillow.” The best part? They come in over 20 different combinations of colors and fabrics so you can essentially personalize your own pair.
11. AGL Cap Toe Ballet Flat
With a stylish cap toe and buckle detail, these ballet flats are a classic investment piece that you can wear for hours on end.
This particular style of AGL flats are known for their comfort and durability (particularly thanks to the elastic ribbing and leather and rubber sole for traction.) Given its soft leather footbed, this shoe is great for work. But it does run small, so make sure to order one size up.
12. Sarah Flint The Perfect Pump
What do Meghan Markle, Amal Clooney, and Lady Gaga have in common? They’ve all been spotted wearing Sarah Flint’s “Perfect Pump.“
If you’re looking for a pump or stiletto that won’t want to make you gouge your eyes out after an hour, these will be your savior. They have a wider toe box to ease the pain that usually comes with crowding, extra padding in the footbed, and anatomical arch support.
13. Loeffler Randall Penny Pleated Bow Sandals
These pretty gold heels might be an investment but they are my go-to for any type of work or social event. They are so incredibly comfortable and they instantly add a wow factor to any type of outfit.
I have this pair and the shorter pair as well! They’re a staple in my wardrobe throughout the year but I especially love to wear them for holiday events and other special occasions.
14. Margaux The Demi Flat
Classic, cute, COMFORTABLE. Remember all of those blisters you used to get from your old flats? Yeah, that won’t happen if you invest in these sleek Italian leather slippers that are perfect for work.
One reviewer compared the feeling of walking on the 5 millimeters of foam padding and supportive insole to “walking on a cloud.”
Not only do these flats have a revolutionarily swift break in time, but they also have an adjustable cord bow on the front to customize the fit. Pair this high quality shoe that comes in a variety of colors with your favorite loose-fitted dress for the ultimate comfort combo.
The Most Comfortable Sandals for Walking
15. Margaux The City Sandal
I bought a pair of these last summer and ended up LIVING in them. I didn’t think it was possible to find a heeled sandal that I could run around for hours in, but I was proven wrong.
Between the cushioned footbed and the block heel, you’ll feel like you’re actually wearing flats—with the added height of a heeled sandal.
16. Sorel Ella Sandal
If you have a long day of walking ahead of you, but don’t want to wear sneakers, opt for these Sorel sandals that come in 14 different colors.
Because one customer said, “I live in the mountains. This shoe is ideal for mountains and the city; ready to wear; comfortable the first day,” it’s no surprise this minimal, chic shoe is a Sorel top seller.
Featuring a soft suede upper, a comfortable EVA footbed, and a molded rubber sole, the Ella Sandal is meant for all-day wear and provides everyday traction.
17. Birkenstock Arizona Soft Slide Sandal
Birkenstocks are an OG, reliable, consistent shoe. This iconic sandal is just as casual as any flimsy pair of flip flops, but provides much more support. Made with shock absorption, flexible footbed with plush foam cushioning that mimics your foot shape, Birkenstocks offer superior comfort, so you can wear them all day long without any aches or pains.
Another thing to love about these is that no matter how warm and sweaty your feet get during the summer, these are fairly slip resistant so you won’t be sliding around in your own shoes.
18. Amazon Comfort Slides
If you’ve ever browsed my Amazon storefront then you know that I have a deep love for these slides. They’re a Birkenstock dupe that are under $25 and they are SO comfy. Whether you want to wear them around your house or rock them while running errands, these are a good everyday go-to.
Best Shoes for Nurses
19. Hoka Bondi 8 Running Shoe
Unless you have been living under a rock, I have no doubt in my mind that you’ve seen these sneakers just about everywhere you go. They became extremely popular after the brand had a collaboration with Outdoor Voices.
Reviewers and friends of mine note how you can walk around or stand in them all day without any discomfort. Another perk: You don’t have to break them in and deal with any pesky blisters (which is one of the most annoying parts of buying new shoes in my opinion.)
They also hold up well in the washing machine—an added bonus for nurses who need to deep clean their work attire.
While I put these in the best shoes for nurses section of this blog post, these would be a smart choice for anyone who needs to be on their feet all day. If you’re traveling, if you’re a busy mom, or you simply are on the go a lot, these are sure to keep you comfy while actually supporting your feet.
20. Dansko XP 2.0 Clogs
Okay, I’ll admit it…..these might not be the cutest shoes on the market, but several nurses swear by them for long, 12-hour shifts. “These are the absolute best shoes in the world for nurses. I would say over 70% of nurses and doctors wear them—they’re the popular style in the medical field,” says Emily Besch, a nurse at Cedars Sinai in Beverly Hills.
Besch mentioned that the thick, cushiony sole also adds an extra couple of inches to your height, and that even though they aren’t exactly a fashion statement, so many nurses wear them that it’s not a big deal. Plus, when you’re on your feet all day caring for other people, comfort level is more important than style.
There you have it—my tried-and-true list of the most comfortable shoes to wear while standing all day. I hope that this post helped you nail down a few pairs that you can confidently order and test out yourself.
I really don’t think you should have to sacrifice comfort or style when picking a quality pair of shoes, and these picks prove it.
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