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A house is only as strong as its foundation. A tree is only as solid as its root system. So why aren’t you paying more attention to your feet?
Investing in the most comfortable men’s shoes now will have you earning dividends for the rest of your life — living pain-free far into your future.
“The bottom line is you want to have a good, supportive but comfortable fit,” says Dr. Glenn Davison, owner of Advanced Podiatry in New York City and New Jersey and a Fellow in the American College of Foot and Ankle Surgeons. “This means you should feel the arch of the shoe underneath your sole.”
A comfortable foot generally means a well-supported foot. In the past, it might have been difficult to find the balance between comfort and style. But not so today. Trends like ‘Gorpcore’ put an emphasis on technical and performance sneakers for everyday wear — and those sneakers are getting more supportive and comfortable with every new shoe release. According to Dr. Davison, today’s performance sneakers and styles designed for anatomical support are generally ideal for preventing foot ailments that can lead to the need for costly interventions, like custom orthotics, later on.
“Very simply, there’s so much research and development in sneakers nowadays, figuring out where the pressure points are and the flexibility or rigidity required for different sports,” Dr. Davison explains. “So, even your average quality name brand sneaker is going to offer a good supportive fit.”
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Now that you’re thinking more about your feet and what may be currently causing you discomfort, ahead are the 20 most comfortable shoes for men to shop that will suit a range of needs and lifestyles. Plus, keep reading for expert tips on what to look for in comfortable shoes for men for all foot types and conditions.
Colors: White, black and white, tan and white
Special features: Recovery foam midsole; made form cruelty-free vegan leather
Alo Yoga Top-Quality Store Badge on Google: 4.7/5 stars
Editor testing and review notes: “After standing all day, a grueling workout, or just when your feet need a little TLC after office days in dress shoes, Alo x 01 Classic Shoes are the perfect recovery shoes that won’t cramp you style. It truly feels like your feet are on a memory foam mattress, yet the outer sole keeps them stable and secure, allowing you to move comfortably for hours.”
Price upon publish date of this article: $185
Colors: Green and white; black and white
Special features: Created with recycled materials
adidas Top-Quality Store Badge on Google
Editor testing and review notes: “The Country OG sneakers are a great, grippy sneaker for everyday wear, delivering a stable feel on slick surfaces. Its leather feels thick and durable yet not overly padded, which allows for breathability and extra room for styling with thick socks whether I’m heading out for a walk or a night on the town.”
Price upon publish date of this article: $120
Colors: 20 colorways available
Special features: PureGel technology for enhanced shock absorption; lightweight cushioning
Amazon Top-Quality Store Badge on Google: 4.5/5 stars
Nordstrom Top-Quality Store Badge on Google: 4.8/5 stars
Zappos Top-Quality Store Badge on Google: 4.8/5 stars
What testers say: “These shoes were recommended by a podiatrist to me after suffering from plantar fasciitis and the shoes have worked well in supporting my foot. I have been able to get back to 5 miles a day with these shoes.”
Price upon publish date of this article: $160
Colors: 13 NCAA team colorways available
Special features: Easy lacing system; removable insole
HEYDUDE Top-Quality Store Badge on Google: 4.7/5 stars
Editor testing and review notes: “Whether you’re looking for a daily men’s walking shoe, lightweight travel footwear, or simply something that’s comfy and won’t break the bank, the HEYDUDE Wally shoes are a perfect fit for your needs. They’re light as a feather and feature a breathable canvas upper that’s great for the warm weather seasons ahead — particularly if you’re trying to find a great comfortable slip-on sneaker that won’t rub your feet or cause blisters.”
Price upon publish date of this article: $74.99
Colors: white and 15 other hues
Special features: Made of sustainable materials
Cariuma Top-Quality Store Badge on Google
Price upon publish date of this article: $85
Colors: Natural Black, Blizzard, Yellow, Orange and Beige
Special features: Low carbon footprint, made of sustainable materials
Nordstrom Top-Quality Store Badge on Google: 4.8/5 stars
Allbirds Top-Quality Store Badge on Google: 4.3/5 stars
What testers say: “They have a very sock-like fit and are fairly tight to put on, but with the pull straps on the shoe its pretty easy. They are very bouncy and lightweight making them great for walking or some jogging. They have a good ground feel and are just fun to wear.”
Price upon publish date of this article: $160
Colors: 19 colorways available
Special features: 2 Zoom Air units for responsiveness
Nike Top Quality Store Badge on Google: 4.6/5 stars
What testers say: “I have owned two prior versions of the Pegasus and I just ran 10 miles in this shoe. I appreciate the wider toe box and cushion that feels really nice but isn’t so soft that you loose stability. My laces didn’t come untied once! I prefer this over the react infinity. Went with my usual size where the react infinity was too short with narrower toe box. Look so great as well!”
Price upon publish date of this article: $130
Colors: 35 colorways available
Special features: Durable leather overlays; sockliner for comfort
Amazon Top-Quality Store Badge on Google: 4.5/5 stars
What testers say: “I bought these shoes for work. I’m on my feet 12 hours a day, and these give great support.”
Price upon publish date of this article: $54.10
Colors: 13 colorways available
Special features: Goodyear rubber outsole for enhanced traction and durability
Amazon Top-Quality Store Badge on Google: 4.5/5 stars
What testers say: “I’ve waited to hike over 10 miles in these before reviewing. Firstly, they are noticeably easier to put on and take off than my old Avias. The soles are heavy and rugged and the memory foam shapes to your foot after a few miles and holds that basic shape. They look pretty good too. Skechers seem to me to run a little on the wide side so if you have a narrow foot, you might feel like they’re a tad loose. Like any new show, you need to break them in before they begin to feel comfy. I expect these to last a long time. They seem very well made.”
Price upon publish date of this article: $50.73
Colors: 14
Special features: Vegan leather upper; Speedboard for agile movement
Zappos Top-Quality Store Badge on Google: 4.8/5 stars
What testers say: “Fit was perfect and these shoes are super comfortable. Feel and style have a high end feel and look great with most styles.”
Price upon publish date of this article: $189.99
Colors: 12 colorways available
Special features: Compression-resistant cushioning
Amazon Top-Quality Store Badge on Google: 4.5/5 stars
What testers say: “I love these shoes. They’re great beater shoes, comfortable, I wear them to my job as a server and my feet are never sore. They’re perfect for mowing the lawn, perfect shoes for nurses. All around, this is an essential for anyone who needs a comfortable pair of shoes that will keep your feet comfortable after standing for a long time. Great price too!”
Price upon publish date of this article: $49.99
Colors: 6
Special features: Ortholite footbed
Amazon Top-Quality Store Badge on Google: 4.5/5 stars
What testers say: “Great looking casual sneakers. They’re very comfortable yet stylish. I highly recommend them, and I should also mention that they are a great value for the price.”
Price upon publish date of this article: $109
Colors: 12, including white
Special features: Sustainably made; contoured footbed
Rothy’s Top-Quality Store Badge on Google
What testers say: “I’m kicking myself for not getting these sooner. They have become my everyday go to. With or without socks, it doesn’t make a difference. Walked almost eight miles in these the second time I wore them. Feet felt great.”
Price upon publish date of this article: $175
Courtesy of Nordstrom
Colors: 7
Special features: Lightweight
Nordstrom Top-Quality Store Badge on Google: 4.8/5 stars
Zappos Top-Quality Store Badge on Google: 4.8/5 stars
What testers say: “This is a perfectly-fitting and comfortable shoe. I’ve been wearing them daily for 2 weeks now and my feet feel great! I think the sole looks a bit weird, but if it helps make the shoe as comfortable as it is, then it’s fine with me.”
Price upon publish date of this article: $140
Colors: 8 colorways available
Special features: EVA heel support
Amazon Top-Quality Store Badge on Google: 4.5/5 stars
What testers say: “These are wonderful shoes thus far. They appear to be well-constructed and while I cannot speak for the longevity (because I just purchased them), I can speak on the comfort and fit. They are quite comfortable and very light, yet very supportive and the fit is spot on. Size 10.5 is 10.5. These are a relative bargain regardless of how long they last IMO.”
Price upon publish date of this article: $34.99
Courtesy of Amazon
Colors: 10, including Navy, Taupe and Charcoal/Black
Special features: Breathable upper; padded heel collar
Amazon Top-Quality Store Badge on Google: 4.5/5 stars
What testers say: “I have a high arch to my feet, and finding shoes for casual wear that are comfortable all day has always been a problem. Most of the time, I’ve had to resort to inserts that just add to the cost of the shoe. This is my second pair of Skechers Arch Fit shoes and they work for me. Also knowing they’re going to be spot-on in terms of shoe size is an added plus, allowing you to simply order them online rather than having to shop in store.”
Price upon publish date of this article: $64.21
What to Look For in the Most Comfortable Shoes for Men
With so many companies in the game, there’s a comfortable and stylish shoe for any and every occasion. But with sartorial norms falling rapidly by the wayside, the lines between what shoe to wear and when are becoming increasingly blurred. A stylish, comfortable sneaker can be just as appropriate for work as it is for your workout.
Dr. Davison’s key advice is to always pick the right shoe or sneaker for your needs. “You stress and strain and use different muscles in different activities,” he says.
Think closely about how you will be moving, because not all shoes are created equal. While we all may want to Marie Kondo our closets, the reality is that it’s often best to specialize for the specific road you’re planning to travel.
- Comfortable Walking Shoes: Our feet are our primary mode of transportation, so a comfortable walking shoe should be a staple in your closet. A good fit is pretty easy to come by when you pay attention to ensure you have enough room in the toe box to comfortably move your toes. Also look for breathable mesh uppers, which help sweaty feet stay dry and comfortable longer.
- Comfortable Shoes for Standing All Day: If you’re on your feet all day long, it’s important to focus on finding shoes that will distribute your body weight evenly, according to certified pedorthist Michael Fishkin. Proper heel cushioning and midfoot and arch support will leave your foot less apt to fatiguing quickly, he says.
- Comfortable Workout/ Cross-Training Shoes: Cross-training shoes, which are defined as shoes that are optimized for a workout that involves two or more types of exercise, have flourished since they came on the market in the ’80s. Our workouts today are more diverse and dynamic than ever. “The right cross-training shoes shouldn’t bite the top of your foot, and the ankle height shouldn’t be too high or too low,” says former Reebok shoe designer Paul Litchfield. “If you do a few jumping jacks or move around in them in the store, the shoes should move with you and not cause any irritation.”
- Comfortable Running Shoes: If your workouts typically involve logging long miles on the road or track, you know the value and comfort of a purpose built running shoe. Running shoes have gotten so good that you really can’t choose wrong, as long as you follow your own personal preferences. Take into account what’s important and feels good to you — whether that’s weight, stability, cushioning or any other range of factors.
- Comfortable Trail Running Shoes: Trail running is thrilling because it’s full of surprises. Variable surfaces, unexpected obstacles and sudden climbs all amp up the cardiovascular benefits but pose the challenge of your feet staying consistently comfortable. Seasoned trail runners will remind you to make sure you’re selecting shoes that provide good protection and cushion, adequate grip and rugged construction.
- Comfortable Workout Shoes: If you’re looking for a good generalist workout shoe, focus on any known foot problems that might cause flare-ups. Think about whether you have high arches, a wide feet or bad knees. There isn’t a shoe that can do everything, nor is there one universal shoe that works for everyone. In addition to any known physical conditions, take your own workout habits into close account.
- Comfortable Hiking Shoes: Picking the most comfortable footwear for hiking is really about knowing the appropriate shoe for the type of terrain and distance you’re looking to trek. Identify whether you’re looking for a lightweight hiking shoe, a hybrid or a true backpacking boot, and go from there.
- Comfortable Dress Shoes: Dress shoes today are more versatile than ever. Lucky for men, clever design innovations have made them more comfortable as well. Look for things like textured rubber outsoles and cushioned footbeds.
- Comfortable Work Shoes: Work shoes used to be synonymous with dress shoes, but with traditional office dress codes out the window, most of us will find much more flexibility and choice in what is “work-appropriate.” These days, it seems nearly every category of comfortable shoe can foot the bill for office wear. Take what you already know about your foot into account, and you should be able to find footwear that strikes the right chord for any work situation.
What to Look For in Comfortable Men’s Shoes for Different Foot Types and Conditions
With so many options and flexibility in what type of shoe you can wear for every occasion, the key to foot comfort may actually be understanding how your individual foot type and existing conditions affect the shoes you should be considering.
- Flat Feet: For someone with flat feet, where your entire foot is touching the ground, wide-lasted shoes are generally the best option. Pedorthist Michael Fishkin reminds us that flat-footed folks should not look for shoes with an hourglass shape at the bottom. “Instead, they should have a straight-across design underfoot,” he says. Your foot will be cradled better, and you’ll avoid painful pinching, chafing and rubbing.
- Wide Feet: If you ever feel pressure on the sides of your feet while wearing shoes, chances are you have a wide foot, says New York-based podiatrist and foot surgeon, Dr. Bruce Pinker. Luckily, with at least 10% of the population falling outside normal sizing spectrums, many brands take wide feet into account and offer models in varying widths. Measure your foot and ask if the shoe you’re considering comes in a wide, extra-wide or extra-extra wide option.
- Ankle Support: The causes of weak ankles may be difficult to pinpoint, but the complaint is infamous. If you know you suffer from ankle pain or weakness, look for high-top shoes. “They’re great for additional structure and support to prevent ankle injury,” says Dr. Dan Geller, a board certified foot and ankle surgeon and advisor for Kane Footwear. But watch out: “Running shoes may not always be the best for folks with weak ankles, as some can actually roll you out,” he says.
- Plantar Fasciitis: The stabbing pain on the bottom of your foot, known as plantar fasciitis, is no joke. It’s a very common injury due to overuse. Utah-based podiatrist Dr. Mike Rushton reminds us that it can significantly interfere with daily life. “When plantar fasciitis gets sore, it hurts badly because it’s always under pressure. You can’t take a break from standing and walking,” he says. For a comfortable shoe, find the balance between cushion and stability and pay attention to arch support. When your body weight is evenly distributed across your foot, some of the pressure on your heels will be alleviated.
- High Arches: Having high arches means your feet are structured in a way that naturally places excess weight on the balls or heels when walking or standing. This can lead to a slew of problems if you don’t wear supportive shoes, says fellow New York-based podiatrist Dr. Jackie Sutera. “High-arched feet are best treated with supportive, softer and more flexible, lightweight types of soles,” she says. “Avoid rigid, thin and flat shoes.”
- Knee Pain: Our knees are in constant use and difficult to rest when you’re constantly on the go. Shoes can’t fix knee pain, but picking the right pair tailored to your foot type can make you a lot more comfortable and help alleviate further complications. The key to comfort? Dr. Mark Mendeszoon, a podiatrist and owner of Achilles Running Shop in Pennsylvania, encourages frequent replacement of your shoes to ensure they’re operating at their best.
- Back Pain: Back pain is a complex, but common complaint. Like knee pain, shoes can’t fix the problem, but picking the correct style can make you much more comfortable. When shopping, think about the type of back pain you have and consult your doctor. But if you think you get sore from being on your feet all day — as many nurses and doctors do — you’ll want a shoe that has proper support and cushioning, Dr. Mendeszoon says. “Achieving proper foot alignment helps prevent all kinds of aches and pains, including in your back,” he adds.
- Heel Spurs: “Heel spurs are a growth of bone on the bottom of your heel,” explains Dr. Rushton. In some situations, doctors may intervene with surgery, but Dr. Rushton generally leans towards treating the symptoms with well-fitting, comfortable shoes. “You need a cushy heel,” he says, and recommends brands like Altra and Hoka One One, which tend to offer models with ample support.
- Diabetes: Diabetes can cause all sorts of discomfort for your feet. Dr. Rushton advises that poor circulation to extremities can cause problems like neuropathy and loss of sensation. The key for diabetics is to look for shoes with a roomy fit, he says. Apart from shoes specifically tailored for diabetics, opt for silhouettes with wide box toes and soft shoe interiors, which will help decrease friction on the foot.
- Bunions: In addition to being caused by wearing ill-fitting shoes, painful bunions can result when you don’t pay attention to your foot’s specific biomechanics. Unlike back and knee pain, bunions are actually treatable at an early stage when you choose the right comfortable shoe, says Dr. Davison. Look for shoes that stabilize your foot into a neutral position and help distribute weight evenly.
Meet the Experts
Dr. Glenn Davison is owner of Advanced Podiatry in New York City and New Jersey and a Fellow in the American College of Foot and Ankle Surgeons.
Dr. Michael Fishkin is a certified pedorthist and currently treats patients at Northern Illinois Foot & Ankle Specialists.
Paul Litchfield is the head of product at GoRuck, a fitness brand focused on creating sports equipment for rucking. He previously served as the vice president of Reebok Advanced Concepts for nearly three decades and served as the chief engineer of footwear and apparel innovation and product creation for global manufacturing services company Jabil.
Dr. Bruce Pinker is a board-certified podiatrist and foot surgeon of Progressive Foot Care in New York state.
Dr. Dan Geller is a board certified foot and ankle surgeon and advisor for Kane Footwear.
Dr. Mike Rushton is a Doctor of Podiatric Medicine (DPM) and co-founder and medical director of Forward Motion Orthotics in St. George, Utah.
Dr. Jackie Sutera is a board-certified podiatrist and practices in New York and northern New Jersey. She is a member of Vionic’s Innovation Lab and practices “whole body podiatry,” guiding patients to understand how podiatric issues can also relate to their overall health.
Dr. Mark Mendeszoon is a Doctor of Podiatric Medicine (DPM) and owner of Achilles Running Shop in Pennsylvania.
Meet the Author
Peter Tittiger is a freelance journalist and content consultant. He is also an avid runner and a slave to his feet. A firm believer in “No Days Off,” he regularly logs at least five runs a week and cross-trains in the pool or on a bike. He has trained for and run in nearly a hundred races, including the New York City Marathon, and has neared annual completion of the full, five-borough, NYRR half-marathon circuit.
