21 Most Comfortable Shoes to Wear 2024
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The 21 Most Comfortable Shoes That Will Have Your Feet Thanking You

Give your feet a break, pls.

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There’s nothing more annoying than a pair of shoes pinching, rubbing, or cutting into your skin—especially when you’re halfway through the day, and you have to limp around until you can get home to change out of them. No more of that! If you’re done dealing with painful blisters and your toes feeling deprived of circulation, then welcome to this list of the absolute most comfortable shoes. And no, they’re not all sneakers, folks! We’ve scoured the internet for a wide range of shoes—including comfy loafers, heels, flats, sandals, and more—that'll make your feet happy, 'cause comfort is king, agreed??

Here's the thing: Uncomfy shoes don't just hurt. They can lead to everything from plantar fasciitis to Achilles tendonitis, and for the record, not all comfortable shoes look orthopedic. (No offense to orthopedic shoes, ofc!!) Shocking, I know, but there are some actually cute designs that aren’t out to cause harm to your feet. As podiatrist Marion Yau previously told Cosmo, "As a foot expert, I always recommend shoes that have a little bit of arch support and cushion inside." From actually comfortable heels to arch-supporting flats to versatile sneakers, we've got plenty of podiatrist- and editor-approved shoes for you.

Our top picks for the most comfortable shoes of 2024:

  • 1
    574 Core

    most comfortable trendy sneakers

    New Balance 574 Core

    $90 at Amazon
    Read more
  • 2
    OCA Low

    most comfortable classic sneakers

    Cariuma OCA Low

    Read more
  • 3
    The Day Mary Jane

    most comfortable Mary Jane flats

    Everlane The Day Mary Jane

    Read more
  • 4
    Dee Double-Strap Slide Sandal

    most comfortable slide sandals

    Madewell Dee Double-Strap Slide Sandal

    Read more
  • 5
    Pehuea

    most comfortable slip-on shoes

    OluKai Pehuea

    Read more

Whether you’re staying indoors, strolling to the office, packing for an outdoorsy trip, or dressing up for a party, we’ve got the 21 most comfortable—and stylish!—shoes for any occasion.

1
most comfortable trendy sneakers

New Balance 574 Core

574 Core
$90 at Amazon$90 at New Balance$90 at Nordstrom
Pros
  • Both functional and fashionable
  • Come in two width options
Cons
  • Run small, so you should probs size up

Found: the dadcore sneaks of your dreams. These '80s-inspired suede NB shoes will keep you on-trend and comfy AF thanks to their plush midsole cushioning, breathable suede and mesh uppers, and retro silhouette. Plus, they come in a dozen different colorways and go with legit everything—all for less than $100!

  • Size range: 5-12 with half sizes; medium or wide width
  • Material: Suede and mesh
  • Colors: 12 options

Glowing Customer Review: "[It's] hard to find comfortable shoes with proper support. [I've] always had problems with my feet, including flat feet and heel spurs. These have soft cushioning and proper support. I walk all day on cement floors, and these are comfortable and fashionable!"

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2
most comfortable classic sneakers

Cariuma OCA Low

OCA Low
Pros
  • Memory foam insoles offer extra support
  • Available in three different fabrics and a ton of colors
Cons
  • May be too casual for certain occasions/outfits

Everyone needs a pair of classic, comfy white sneakers you can wear with just about everything—and these low-tops from Cariuma are just that. Available in canvas, suede, and leather fabric options (and just about every color imaginable, if white isn't your thing), these bestsellers feature a memory foam insole for extra support and comfort.

  • Size range: 5-13 with half sizes
  • Material: Canvas, leather, or suede
  • Colors: 50+ options

Glowing Customer Review: "These sneakers feel like I am walking on a cloud. They are soft but supportive. They are true to size. They are stylish and well made. I will be ordering other colors."

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3
most comfortable Mary Jane flats

Everlane The Day Mary Jane

The Day Mary Jane
Pros
  • Buttery-soft leather really hugs your feet
  • Square toe help keep feet from feeling cramped
Cons
  • Sole is thinner than some expected

I <3 a dainty Mary Jane shoe, and IMO, these cuties from Everlane are some of the best. Featuring a unique squared-off toe, stretchy elastic band, and buttery soft nappa leather fabric, these shoes work to mold to your feet, all while providing enough cushion for all-day comfort.

  • Size range: 5-11 with half sizes
  • Material: Leather
  • Colors: Rum, Blush Tan, Canvas, or Black

Glowing Customer Review: "Beyond impressed with these Mary Jane ballet flats. They fit perfect, [and I] ordered my normal size. The leather is so buttery soft you almost forget to have shoes on. Highly recommend!!"

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4
most comfortable slide sandals

Madewell Dee Double-Strap Slide Sandal

Dee Double-Strap Slide Sandal
Pros
  • Leather straps give 'em an upscale lewk
  • Lightweight but still v supportive
Cons
  • Not the best for walking long distances, per a few testers

Hi, good luck getting these lug-sole slides off my feet this summer. From the flexible, molded footbed to the buttery leather roller-buckle straps, these sandals are ze ✨perfect✨ combination of comfort and style—and despite that thick sole, they're super lightweight, too!

  • Size range: 5-12 with half sizes
  • Material: Leather
  • Colors: True Black, Warm Coffee, Olive Tree, or Ecru

Glowing Customer Review: "I was looking for an alternative to my Birkenstocks this summer to wear with dresses or skirts, and these are exactly that! They are easy to put on and very comfortable, yet the brown leather still makes me feel very put together. I’ll wear them all summer long."

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5
most comfortable slip-on shoes

OluKai Pehuea

Pehuea
Pros
  • Reviewers <3 the arch support these provide
  • Mesh uppers make these so breathable
Cons
  • Not the best option for rainy days

Obsessed doesn't begin to describe how I feel about these chic lil slip-on shoes. Made with a breezy mesh vamp and cushy insole, the Pehuea provides ah-mazing arch support and heel stability—and best of all, it features a drop-in heel, so you can slip it on totally hands-free. A lifesaver, truly!

  • Size range: 5-12 with half sizes
  • Material: Mesh and polyurethane
  • Colors: 9 options

Glowing Customer Review: "I get compliments everywhere I go in these shoes. They were instantly comfortable and felt like I had been wearing them forever the first time I ever wore them. Highly recommend! Already looking at adding more of these to my collection."

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6
most comfortable pumps

Vivaia Julie Pro

Julie Pro
Pros
  • Back heel patch helps prevent blisters
  • Arched foam insole for cloud-like comfort
Cons
  • Some reviewers had sizing issues, you may need to size up

Made from plastic water bottles, the soft knit upper on these internet-famous heels is designed for extra comfort that doesn't squeeze your foot. The shoe also features a built-in heel patch that helps prevent blisters and four-way stretch to mold to your foot shape. An elegant pump with all that added comfort? Sign me up.

  • Size range: 5-11 with half sizes
  • Material: Recycled plastic bottles
  • Colors: 9 options

Glowing Customer Review: "Wow. Just what I was looking for. I got them for work because I need shoes that I could take walks in but also looked nice. They’re lightweight, comfortable, & I was running late to an appointment and RAN (a ladylike jog is more accurate) and they stayed on my feet so well! Very impressed."

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7
most comfortable walking shoes

Allbirds Tree Runner Go

Tree Runner Go
Pros
  • Very lightweight, so easy to pack
  • Keep feet nice and cool, thanks to breathable uppers
Cons
  • Not everyone loves the high heel drop, which can rub against ankle

I got these bbs before a trip to Ireland where I was walking several miles everyday, and let me tell ya, they delivered! Featuring v breathable Tencel lyocell uppers and bouncy cushioning, these lightweight sneaks kept my feet cool and supported with every step, and IMO, they look just as good with jeans as they do with a pair of leggings.

  • Size range: 5-11 with half sizes
  • Material: Tree fiber
  • Colors: Natural Black, Blizzard, Deep Navy, Medium Grey, or Rugged Beige

Glowing Customer Review: "These are the absolutely perfect shoes for travel. They are comfortable for walking, stylish, and easy to clean. And, depending on color (I choose grey), they go with every outfit."

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8
most comfortable flatform sandals

Nisolo Go-To Flatform Sandal 2.0

Go-To Flatform Sandal 2.0
Pros
  • Lightweight midsole with soft leather lining for more comfortable wear
  • Great for dressing up or down
Cons
  • Runs small, so you may have to size up

Reviewers raveee that these are the most comfortable sandals they own. The one-inch flatforms are made with soft leather lining and a supportive lightweight midsole, making them comfy for all day wear or walking. As a bonus, they also come in multiple color combos, so there's something for every warm weather 'fit.

  • Size range: 5-11 with half sizes
  • Material: Leather
  • Colors: Bone, Almond, or Black

Glowing Customer Review: "These sandals are perfect for a casual day with pants, shorts, or dresses! They are super cute and they're really comfortable. I've walked around a bunch in these and stood for long periods of time and they're still great!"

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9
most comfortable heeled sandals

Vionic Chardonnay Heeled Sandals

On Sale
Chardonnay Heeled Sandals
Now 24% Off
Pros
  • Thick ankle strap provides lots of support
  • Chunky heel is great for walking
Cons
  • Can take a few wears to stretch out the front strap

Known as the "world's most walkable heel," I can personally attest that these chunky heeled sandals are indeed very, very comfortable. The secret: the deep heel cups, which help to cradle and stabilize your feet as you walk, as well as the incredible arch support, which makes full underfoot contact to reduce pressure.

  • Size range: 5-13 with half sizes; medium or wide width
  • Material: Leather or suede
  • Colors: Gold, Black, Camel, Pewter, Red, Light Pink, or Tan

Glowing Customer Review: "Finally, a dressy and comfortable shoe! I have a wide foot and it fit perfect. Love the pewter color, style, and heel height (not too high but enough to feel dressed up). Highly recommend!"

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10
most comfortable everyday shoes

Lululemon Cityverse

Cityverse
Pros
  • Mold to your foot for A+ cushioning
  • Come with a 30-day trial
Cons
  • Material is tough to clean, per some testers

Several Cosmo editors agree: These are the shoes you need for all your Hot Girl Walks—and tbh, any other occasion. Available in five muted colors, the Cityverse (which is Lululemon's first ~casual~ sneaker, btw) have a sleek, sporty silhouette and a removable sock liner with a gel-like base for allllll the cushiony comfort.

  • Size range: 5-12 with half sizes
  • Material: Mixed material
  • Colors: White, Raw Linen, Juicy Peach, Precocious Pink, or Jade Whisper

Glowing Customer Review: "These shoes are super comfy and very sleek-looking. I wore them for a 12-hour work day, and my feet did not hurt at all. Would highly recommend these."

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11
most comfortable mules

Frankie4 Kass

Kass
Pros
  • Features a podiatrist-designed footbed with triple-layer cushioning
  • Comes with gel forefront cushions
Cons
  • Some reviewers had to go half a size up

Founded and designed by podiatrists, you can rest assured that Frankie4 knows a thing or two about truly comfy footwear. These handwoven leather mules are perfect for topping off your spring/summer outfits in style, as they feature a triple-layer support and cushion system, as well as removable gel inserts that will give you a customized fit.

  • Size range: 6-13 with half sizes
  • Material: Leather
  • Colors: Sandshell, Tan, or Black

Glowing Customer Review: "These are the most versatile and comfiest mules ever. I am wearing them everywhere. They dress up any outfit without needing a heel. I did go up a size, though as I have wide feet. And they are perfect."

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12
most comfortable ballet flats

Margaux The Demi

The Demi
Pros
  • Cord bow can be used to adjust fit
  • Soft, unstructured leather is easier to break in and more comfortable to wear
Cons
  • Some reviewers needed to go half a size up

Ballet flats are back—and Margaux's soft leather pair gives chic French girl in all the best ways. This style has been a favorite for years for its soft, unstructured fit that doesn't cause blisters or pain, like many other ballet flats do. Handmade in Spain, these are available in a ton of colors and prints, as well as leather, suede, and woven fabric options.

  • Size range: 3-14 with half sizes; narrow, medium, or wide width
  • Material: Nappa, patent, or woven leather
  • Colors: 12 options

Glowing Customer Review: "Most comfortable ballet slipper I own. I could walk in all day. Will definitely be buying another color!"

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13
most comfortable fashion sneakers

Adidas Samba OG Shoes

Samba OG Shoes
Pros
  • Celebrity-approved (but not super $$$!)
  • On-trend but still a classic
Cons
  • Unisex, so can be a lil tricky to figure out sizing

Why, yes, these are the It-Girl shoes you've seen on everyone from Bella Hadid to Kendall Jenner to Kaia Gerber, and they're not just trendy—they're also really, really comfy (promise). Reviewers loveee the low-profile design, padded collar, and pillowy footbed...and the fact that you can wear it with a-n-y-t-h-i-n-g and feel like an off-duty model.

  • Size range: 5-15 with half sizes
  • Material: Leather and suede
  • Colors: 20+ options

Glowing Customer Review: "The Adidas Samba OGs mix classic looks with comfy feel—great for everyday wear or casual sports. They're durable, stylish, and bring back a bit of old-school cool."

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14
most comfortable flat loafers

Birdies The Starling

The Starling
Pros
  • Quilted footbed feels ah-mazing
  • Great choice for those with wider feet
Cons
  • Soles are thinner than some would like

From the roomy toe box to the quilted satin footbed, these smoking slipper loafers from Birdies look and feel like luxury...which is prob why they've earned over 35,000 rave reviews. I wear my Starlings at least once a week, and just a warning: Once you experience the cloud-like comfort, you'll be tempted to buy at least three more pairs.

  • Size range: 5-13 with half sizes; medium or wide width
  • Material: Leather, suede, or velvet
  • Colors: 25 options

Glowing Customer Review: "These are the most comfortable shoes I have ever owned. They feel better than new slippers and are beautiful, too! Even though they cost a bit more than I am used to paying, I don't regret one penny. Totally worth it."

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15
most comfortable retro sneakers

Reebok Club C 85 Vintage Shoes

Club C 85 Vintage Shoes
Pros
  • No break-in time required, according to reviewers
  • Terry lining is such a nice touch
Cons
  • Those with wider feet may need to size up

Another Cosmo editor fave: the Reebok Club C 85. These low-cut, retro-chic sneaks are timeless and comfy right out of the box (no break-in time required!) thanks to the fuzzy terry lining, impact-absorbing midsoles, and soft leather uppers. Plus, the minimalist design and vintage sports logo is just *chef's kiss.*

  • Size range: 5-13 with half sizes
  • Material: Leather
  • Colors: Sky Blue, Glen Green, Asteroid Dust, Rose Dust, Vintage Green, or Infused Lilac

Glowing Customer Review: "These sneakers are so cute and comfy! I have had these for several years now and wear them several times a week. They have had no signs of damage and are easy to clean. They look so good with jeans and leggings and match almost any outfit!"

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16
most comfortable fisherman sandals

Dr. Martens Blaire Sandal

On Sale
Blaire Sandal
Pros
  • Provides tons of stability and support
  • Don't take long to break in, according to most reviewers
Cons
  • Run a bit big (and no half sizes are available)

Head's up: You can expect the caged sandal (aka the fisherman sandal) to be in again this summer, and these comfy Docs will help ya hop on the trend. Made with your choice of glossy, waxy, or patent leather, the Blair Sandal boasts a lightweight ripple platform, a padded collar, and—like all Docs—a sturdy Goodyear welt for durability.

  • Size range: 5-11
  • Material: Leather
  • Colors: Black or White

Glowing Customer Review: "Have you ever experienced love at first step? I have. In these shoes. I wear these shoes with literally EVERYTHING. They’re the only shoes I wear when I’m not at work. I put them on just to clean the house because they’re that comfortable. I even have tan lines stripes across the tops of my feet because these are all. I. Ever. Wear."

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17
most comfortable platform sandals

M.Gemi The Lizza

The Lizza
Pros
  • Straps and platform add extra support
  • Feel so lightweight, according to testers
Cons
  • Size options are a bit limited

If you're looking for a summer sandal that adds some height without adding any pain, these platform sandals from M.Gemi (which come in patent leather, crinkled leather, or kid suede) are your gals. The low, flared heel makes walking easier, and the multiple straps add a lil extra support.

  • Size range: 5-10 with half sizes
  • Material: Leather or suede
  • Colors: Black, Sand, Navy, Silver, or Warm Gold

Glowing Customer Review: "Beautiful and functional platform sandal. My high-heel days are long gone, but these shoes are perfect for me these days. No break-in period required."

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18
most comfortable backless loafers

Dream Pairs Flat Mules

On Sale
Flat Mules
Now 20% Off
Pros
  • Look sooo much more expensive than they actually are
  • Roomy toe box and backless design make 'em great for wider feet
Cons
  • Could use a bit more cushion, according to some

The slip-on horse-bit loafer is having a big moment RN...but if you can't afford those Gucci Princetown slippers, these bbs are a v good alternative. Reviewers are so impressed with the roomy toe box, low heel, and elevated design (and you'd never guess they cost a mere $32!!).

  • Size range: 6-11 with half sizes
  • Material: Faux leather
  • Colors: White, Nude, or Black

Glowing Customer Review: "These mules are a great addition to my work wardrobe. They have withheld the many miles I walk to and from work and have remained comfortable. I got the nude pair that go with everything!"

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19
most comfortable espadrilles

Rothy's The Espadrille

The Espadrille
Pros
  • Can be worn with or without ties for ~versatility~
  • Provide great cushioning
Cons
  • Could use better traction, according to a few testers

You may know Rothy's best for its A+ ballet flats, but the brand's new breezy espadrilles are also v worthy of your attention. You'll love the breathable fabric (which is made with a blend of hemp, cotton, and recycled plastic bottles), the incredibly plush footbed, and the fact that you can wear them either with or without the removable ankle ties.

  • Size range: 5-13 with half sizes
  • Material: Hemp, cotton, and recycled plastic bottles
  • Colors: 8 options

Glowing Customer Review: "I absolutely LOVE these shoes! I purchased the black and white. The versatility with the strap is wonderful, making them dressier or more casual, depending on your outfit. The padding in these shoes is fantastic, but not bulky or heavy."

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20
most comfortable pointed-toe flats

Tingrise Pointed Toe Knit Flat

Pointed Toe Knit Flat
Pros
  • Knit uppers keep 'em from feeling too restrictive
  • Surprisingly great quality for the price
Cons
  • Def don't have the best arch support, according to reviews

The problem with a lot of pointy-toe shoes: They squeeze TF out of your feet. But that's not an issue with these pointed-toe flats, which feature knit uppers that stretch as you need them to. Other perks include the removable, padded natural latex insoles and the blister-proof protective heel patches...and the fact that they're just a lil over $30.

  • Size range: 6-10 with half sizes
  • Material: Knit
  • Colors: 12 options

Glowing Customer Review: "I have bought and worn many flats in my life. I am a teacher and on my feet all day long. These flats are THE MOST COMFORTABLE! They didn't even need to be broken in. I've bought them in multiple colors!"

Headshot of Corinne Sullivan
Corinne Sullivan
Editor

Corinne Sullivan is an Editor at Cosmopolitan, where she covers a variety of beats, including lifestyle, entertainment, relationships, shopping, and more. She can tell you everything you need to know about the love lives of A-listers, the coziest bedsheets, and the sex toys actually worth your $$$. She is also the author of the 2018 novel Indecent. Follow her on Instagram for cute pics of her pup and bébé. 

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