The 25 Most Comfortable Sneakers for Women, According to an Expert
Nicole Zane
August 14, 2021, 1:49 AM
·
14 min read
Finding the most comfortable sneaker can be complicated. Whether you’re looking for a fashionable version to wear with your casual dresses on the daily or one that’s suitable for running, hiking, walking, or a gym sesh, there’s many factors to consider. Are you susceptible to blisters or painful foot disorders? What’s your foot type? What terrain are you running on? See, the list can go on and on.
No matter the occasion, however, you’ll want a stylish pair that’s stable and secure without being too tight. Snugness can be a good thing, but there’s a fine line between molding to and crushing your heels, soles, and toes.
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In the wrong pair of sneakers, you’re practically in a sweaty foot prison and can cause pain for the long-term. Dr. Miguel Cunha, founder of Manhattan’s Gotham Footcare and a leading New York City podiatrist, validates this to Footwear News: “Wearing the wrong shoes may lead to problems such as lowered performance, discomfort such as in plantar fasciitis and runner’s knee, injuries, and even early-onset arthritis.”
It’s also important to switch out your sneakers 1-2 times per year, too. “Your shoes will need to be replaced approximately every six months if you are running, and approximately 10 months if you are just walking,” says Dr. Cunha. “It doesn’t matter if they still look new, if the support has been worn out you’re at a much higher risk of injury.”
Cunha recommends taking note of the date you buy a new pair of sneaks: “This will help you to keep track of when you’re due for a new pair.”
With so many sneakers to choose from these days, where does one begin? To help decipher between the best of the best, Dr. Cunha weighs in below with his top picks for the most comfortable sneakers for women who have flat fleet and high arches. Then, we went on an Internet hunt for the most comfortable kicks with tip-top customer reviews for more options that are both stylish and best sellers.
Ready to shop? Ahead, you can check out which versions made our top 25 with styles from Nike, New Balance, Puma, and Adidas.
Adidas Ultraboost 21 Women’s Sneakers
Adidas’s Ultraboost 21 Women’s Sneakers were built with the German-based brand’s newly updated Torsion System for a 15 percent increase in forefoot bending, along with a supportive heel counter while running. Even better? The Primeknit+ upper is crafted with Primeblue, which is a high-performance recycled material in collaboration with Parley Ocean Plastic.
What reviewers say: “They are sooo comfy!! I was a little afraid that the sole would look too chunky (in an ugly way) but they actually look super cute on!”
Courtesy of Adidas
Buy:
Adidas Ultraboost 21 Women’s Sneakers
$71.53
Asics Gel Kayano 28 Sneakers
If you notice that your old shoes have the top inner edge wear and tear, you’re a pronator. “People with plantar fasciitis, Achilles tendonitis, shin splints, or inner knee pain, tend to have flat feet and be pronators, which means your feet roll inward,” says Dr. Cunha. He recommends Asics Gel Kayano 28 Sneakers for motion control, overpronation prevention, and compression improvement at footstrike. These are high-stability sneakers that’ll keep your feet more aligned with your legs.
What Dr. Cunha says: “T
hese shoes tend to be fairly stiff and will flex only near the flex where your toes bend.”
Courtesy of Asics
Buy:
Asics Gel-Kayano 28 Sneakers
$160
Saucony Triumph 19 Sneakers
If your sneakers show even wear, you have a neutral foot type. Dr. Cunha recommends Saucony’s Triumph 19 Sneakers for the balance of even cushioning and support, thanks to the PWRRUN+ midsole foam.
What Dr. Cunha says: “If you’re neutral, fortunately, with this type you distribute weight evenly across your feet so motion control and support is not as critical as stability. This shoe is the most soft, lightweight, and flexible shoe as it can bend and twist more in the middle of the shoe.”
Courtesy of Saucony
Buy:
Saucony Triumph 19 Sneakers
$149.95
Mizuno Wave Rider 24 Sneakers
If your current pair is worn out the top outer edge, you’re most likely a supinator or an underpronator that needs a cushioned sneaker for shock absorption. “Look for shoes without a medial post,” says Dr. Cunha, who recommends Mizuno Wave Rider Sneakers as one of the most comfortable sneakers for stability with its dual compound midsole.
What Dr. Cunha says: “These shoes have softer, more flexible midsoles with more sole and cushioning than motion control shoes, as this foot type doesn’t provide enough shock absorption on its own.”
Courtesy of Mizuno
Buy:
Mizuno Wave Rider 24 Sneakers
$89
Everlane The Court Sneakers
Most Comfortable Fashion Sneaker
Thanks to the super soft leather, women can sport Everlane’s The Court Sneakers right out of the box without an ounce of pain. Not to mention, they go with everything — for any occasion.
What reviewers say: “These sneakers are so versatile! They elevate any outfit, thanks to the high quality leather, while keeping you on the go and comfortable. These shoes have made it so I’ll pretty much only wear sneakers now instead of anything heeled.”
Courtesy of Everlane
Buy:
Everlane The Court Sneakers
$98
Allbirds Tree Dashers Sneakers
Most Comfortable Sneaker for Running
You’ll toss your old-school running shoes after one jog in Allbirds Tree Dashers Sneakers. The brand’s removable castor bean sockliner provides flexible and anatomical support, while the dual-density SweetFoam midsole is made with the world’s first carbon negative green EVA that’s extra plush.
What reviewers say: “These shoes are the bomb! Great arch support, exceptional cushioning, stable heel and as comfortable as anyone could want.”
Courtesy of Allbirds
Buy:
Allbirds Tree Dashers
$125
Vionic Aris Sneakers
Most Comfortable Sneaker for Chronic Foot Pain
Vionic Aris Sneakers will provide the orthotic relief and arch support for several hours, thanks to Vio-Motion footbed technology. It delivers three-zone comfort, even for those who live with plantar fasciitis, heel spurs, and psoriatic arthritis.
What reviewers say: “Having worn orthotics all my life, this brand is my go-to now. Used to wear New Balance but they break down. These come with support insoles and orthotic construction and the souls don’t break down. No hip, knee, ankle nor foot pain. I can wear these all day and forget I’m wearing support shoes and they’re lightweight.”
Courtesy of Vionic
Buy:
Vionic Aris Sneakers
$129.95
New Balance 327 Sneakers
Most Comfortable Sneaker for Everyday
New Balance’s 327 Sneakers have a pastel-hued suede and nylon fabrication that’s equal parts breathable and stylishly retro. The well-cushioned midsole delivers unmatched comfort for work and play.
What reviewers say: “I have a wider upper toe box issue and these are perfect! Look so stylish and colors are amazing for summer.”
Courtesy of Foot Locker
Buy:
New Balance 327 Sneakers
$129.95
Nike Ryz 365 II Sneakers
Tired of white chunky dad shoes? Nike’s Ryz 365 II Sneakers are a futuristic pair of comfortable sneakers with a cut-out rubber sole that adds the traction and durability you’re looking for without the extra weight.
What reviewers say: “The Nike Ryz 365 II is a beautiful, stylish shoe that always leaves me in complete comfort after long days on my feet. In fact, after I finished loading a stroller, two tired children and all of our bags in the car after a long day at the zoo, I looked down at my feet and realized they felt amazing! My feet and ankles had absolutely no aches, no pains, no blisters. My feet were supported the entire day despite all the walking (and sometimes chasing of excited toddlers).”
Courtesy of Bandier
Buy:
Nike Ryz 365 II Sneakers
$85
Converse Run Star Motion Sneakers
The exaggerated, wavy platform and sculptural traction lugs on Converse’s Run Star Motion Sneakers are ideal for slippery morning commutes. Plus, the CX foam insole and phylon midsole absorb impact, which essentially provides all-day bliss for even tired feet.
What reviewers say: “These felt awesome on my feet!! I felt like i was walking on the moon. Very soft on the inside!!”
Courtesy of Converse
Buy:
Converse Run Star Motion Sneakers
$120
Merrell Agility Peak 4 Sneakers
Most Comfortable Sneaker for Trail Running Merrell’s Agility Peak 4 Sneakers are extremely flexible and will fit like a glove on the trails. The Vibram Megagrip outsole allows for enhanced grip on rock and the midsole’s dual-directional flex-grooves offer enhanced ground connection.
What reviewers say: “Excellent shoe, no need to break them in. They are incredibly comfortable! Got a women’s pair for me and a matching pair for my spouse! Love the assortment of colors!!!!!!! I will be recommending these to everyone.”
Courtesy of Merrell
Buy:
Merrell Agility Peak 4 Sneakers
$130
Athletic Propulsion Labs TechLoom Bliss Sneakers
Most Comfortable Sneaker for Travel
We love APL’s TechLoom Bliss Sneakers for an easy-breezy airport experience. Not only do they weigh in at an airy 6.8 oz., but the slip-on design molds and moves with you from TSA to baggage claim with zero aches and pains. The icy grey hue is also a subtle alternative to classic white — but still goes with everything.
What reviewers say: “I got these to wear to my job at the hospital after one of the physicians I work with recommended them. Even after 14 hours on my feet some days, I never had any pain. They are the most comfortable shoe I have ever worn. I have tried Allbirds, Brooks, Nike and none of them even come close to these…They’re so easy to slip on and off and basically conform to your foot.”
Courtesy of Athletic Propulsion Labs
Buy:
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APL Techloom Bliss Sneakers
$140
Sorel Kinetic Impact Lace Sneakers
Sorel’s Kinetic Impact Lace Sneakers has a unique modular construction that feels like you’re walking on air. The 1-inch heel height and 3/4-inch platform height also helps to make these one of the most comfortable women’s sneakers on the market.
What reviewers say: “I’m a nurse & work long hours sometimes. These shoes are amazing & very comfortable. They look great on as well.”
Courtesy of Amazon
Buy:
Sorel Kinetic Impact Lace Sneakers
$105.00 – $246.03
Skechers D’Lites – Biggest Fan Sneakers
Most Comfortable Sneaker for Walking
Walk for miles in Skechers’ D’Lites – Biggest Fan Sneakers without pesky blisters or sweaty soles, thanks to an Air-Cooled Memory Foam insole that’s extremely squishy.
What reviewers say: “I walk 3 to 4 miles a day, and this is by far the best shoe I’ve ever owned. It’s like walking on pillows. If you have high arches and have experienced shin splints or high ankle pain, or even plantar asciitis, this shoe will blow your mind.”
Courtesy of Amazon
Buy:
Skechers D’Lites – Biggest Fan Sneakers
$35.96 – $132.91
Brooks Launch 8 Sneakers
Most Comfortable Women’s Sneaker for Workouts
Brooks’ Launch 8 Sneakers are tie-dye for a stylish twist on a comfortable shoe that’s ideal for interval workouts to long sprints. The BioMoGo DNA midsole cushioning and rebounding rubber helps prevent hip or back pain post run.
What reviewers say: “I have gotten so many compliments on my shoes. I’m back to no more back or hip pain! My feet are not hurting all the time and these are good walking/ standing shoes!”
Courtesy of DSW
Buy:
Brooks Launch 8 Sneakers
$99.95
Nike Space Hippie 04 Sneakers
Nike’s Space Hippie 04 Sneakers is a breathable sneaker style that’s ideal for the warm weather season. It’s made of at least 25% recycled materials, such as plastic bottles, t-shirts, and yarn scraps. The Crater Foam midsole combines Nike Grind with a blend of foams for stability and comfort.
What reviewers say: “The materials are amazing. The mix of the woven upper to the very recycled sole is even nicer than I could have ever expected. Love the small gems of color that pop out in the re-grinded materials, and small bubbles. So much character . This is the type of product that will really help to progress thinking on recycled materials. They are like walking on clouds, and sole is super stable.”
Courtesy of Nike
Buy:
Nike Air Max 90 NRG Sneakers
$130
On Cloud Nexus Sneakers
The unique speed-lacing system on On’s Cloud Nexus Sneakers creates a customized fit like no other, and is convenient for running around town, without the fear of tripping or stopping to re-tie your shoestrings. The cult label’s CloudTec technology is partnered with Speedboard — a liquid-injected plate of thermoplastic polymer — which energizes every step no matter how hard the landing.
What reviewers say: “This lacing system makes for a fit that feels custom! Also feels as if shoe is even more supportive
than usual!”
Courtesy of On Running
Buy:
On Cloudflow Sneakers
$149.99
SeaVees Baja Platform Slip-On Sneakers
Inspired by 1960’s surf adventures to Baja California, Mexico, SeaVees’ Baja Platform Slip-On Sneakers has a cooling system with perforations for breathability in hot climates. The contoured foam footbed make these comfy from the beach to the bar.
What reviewers say: “These are so comfortable, and they have great arch support.”
Courtesy of SeaVees
Buy:
SeaVees Baja Platform Slip On Sneakers
$120
Cariuma Catiba Pro Sneakers
Cariuma’s Catiba Pro Sneakers are the best skate shoes on the market for flip tricks and ollies. You’ll find that the eco-friendly brand’s innovative, memory foam that mimics the anatomy of the foot with the stickiest grip outsole made with raw natural gum rubber.
What reviewers say: “The style & comfort are perfect and the shoe having so much less negative impact on our planet and with every pair tree are planted just really makes sense. I still have other brands but i doubt i’ll buy anything else besides Cariuma.”
Buy:
Cariuma Catiba Pro Sneakers
$89
Under Armour Flow Velociti Wind Running Shoes
Under Armour’s Flow Velociti Wind Running Shoes are completely rubberless, which creates a more lightweight and smooth ride on any surface.
What reviewers say: “I run about 2-3 miles 4 times a week and these are great. They are lightweight, but have tons of support.”
Courtesy of Under Armour
Buy:
UA Flow Velociti Wind Running Shoes
$160
Danner Trail 2650 Sneakers
Most Comfortable Sneaker for Hiking
Danner’s Trail 2650 Sneakers have a EVA foam midsole with a TPU shank that guards your foot on rocky terrain and offers torsional strength for stability. You can also sport them in the city with cargo or workwear pants for a rugged-cool look, too.
What reviewers say: “I live in a city and also love to hike. I walked 20,000 steps in these right out of the box with no pain or blisters!”
Courtesy of Free People
Buy:
Danner Trail 2650 Sneakers
$150
Hoka One One Carbon X2 Sneakers
Most Comfortable Sneaker for Marathon Training
Hoka One One Carbon X2 Sneakers is an adaptable silhouette geared for training and racing alike. A two-part midsole delivers a cushioned landing and responsive toe-off for seamless ride that’s unique to the shoe.
What reviewers say: “I’m loving my new Hokas! I’m starting my marathon training and haven’t developed a single blister yet, compared to previous shoes from other brands. I’m a happy runner!”
Courtesy of Hoka One One
Buy:
Hoka One One Carbon X2 Sneakers
$180
FitFlop Rally Metallic Leather Sneakers
FitFlop’s Rally Metallic Leather Sneakers has an anatomically contoured footbed that increases foot-to-midsole contact for maximum comfort
What reviewers say: “They were comfier than slippers!! So I ordered the white ones too ! I’m tempted to order one more pair just for back up. Plenty of room in the toes and you can wear no show socks or low ankle socks without showing. Not one blister, no breaking them in, and they are leather so they wipe right off if the white trim gets dirty.”
Courtesy of FitFlop
Buy:
Fitflop Rally Metallic Leather Sneakers
$100
Reebok Classic Leather Legacy Shoes
Your feet will feel like a million bucks in Reebok’s Classic Leather Legacy Shoes for under $100. These tennis shoes have lightweight cushioning and die-cut EVA midsole that’ll suit any adventure, from the city to the woods.
What reviewers say: “Perfect shoe. Finally a reebok shoe that just feels amazing day after day for someone who walks 10,000 steps. Everyone thinks I’m wearing some type of yeezy and always asks where I got these! Reebok is BACK.”
Courtesy of Reebok
Buy:
Reebok Classic Leather Legacy Shoes
$80
UMYOGO Women’s Running Shoes
Most Comfortable Budget Sneaker
UMYOGO Running Shoes expand with your foot when you run, which helps reduce irritation-prone feet. Don’t be fooled by the low price tag, the sneak’s high-quality rubber soles are durable for the long-term.
What reviewers say: “The shoe design and color is amazing! Not only are they beautiful, they are VERY comfortable. I went back and forth trying to decide between the coral color and the neon green and bought the coral (orange/pink). I got them today and have been wearing them all day long and my feet feel wonderful.”
Courtesy of Amazon
Buy:
UMYOGO Running Shoes
$45.99
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