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Sky-high platform shoes and thin stilettos will always have their time and place, but when it comes to everyday shoes for women, we’re always on the hunt for ones that won’t cause long-term impacts on our foot health.
Unfortunately, the wrong pair of shoes can be the catalyst for painful and damaging issues like plantar fasciitis, ankle pain, blisters, and calluses. In true Goldilocks fashion, though, there’s no one-size-fits-all option, and what you need could vary based on the weather, your foot type or condition, and the occasion.
Still, no matter your foot type or environment, you should be able to wear your shoes for long hours without having to hobble home. The right shoes for standing all day should have a supportive midsole and breathable fabric, but if you’re always jetting off, running errands, or attending different events, you probably need something you can slip on with ease, and that will allow you to go far distances.
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Then, there are several rules that comfortable everyday shoes should follow. For instance, according to board-certified podiatrist Dr. Priya Parthasarathy, “The shoe should not be able to fold completely in half; ideally, it should have a removable insole, and it should have a firm, supportive heel counter.”
And, luckily, styles have come a long way since the days of yore — as it turns out, orthopedic shoes don’t have to look like orthopedic shoes, if you know what we’re saying. Retailers offer supportive shoes in all kinds of attractive styles, from comfortable sneakers for women and slides to wedge sandals and mules.
Taking all this into account, it can be daunting trying to find the right pair of everyday shoes for women. But here’s the good news: We tapped Dr. Parthasarathy for her expert recommendations and insight into what it takes to find a supportive shoe and spent hours scouring online retailers, reading reviews, and considering factors such as style, foot type, and durability.
Related: Comfortable Dress Shoes for Women
Materials: Leather upper; EVA outsole
Colorways available: Black Burnished Nubuck, Mushroom Burnished Nubuck, Navy Burnished Full Grain, Oyster Milled Burnished
Special features: Aegis Microbe Shield odor control, memory foam cushioning, APMA Seal of Acceptance
Amazon Top-Quality Store Badge on Google: 4.5/5 stars
Don’t fret, though, because it kept the nostalgic, chunky silhouette we adore while bringing its supportive features into the 21st century, like using ultra-lightweight materials, an EVA footbed, and memory foam cushioning. And, because any closed-toe style can become stuffy after hours of wear, we like that Dansko thoughtfully included a patented Aegis Microbe Shield odor control into the sole. The roomy toe box is ideal for those who need shoes for bunions or shoes for wide feet.
What reviewers say: “I live in these! I have bunions and these still fit and are comfortable.”
Price upon publish date of this article: $140
Materials: Synthetic suede and synthetic leather upper; Rubber outsole
Colorways available: Wonder white / Lucid blue / Core black
Special features: 50% recycled content, EVA midsole
Adidas Top-Quality Store Badge on Google: 4.7/5 stars
Aside from having a pair of shoes that’ll add edge to your shift dresses and make your travel leggings look like luxury, these comfortable women’s casual shoes are the perfect vacation option based on the support they provide. While you’re dashing across airport terminals and climbing the steps to a scenic overlook, a cushioned EVA midsole makes these arch-support shoes comfortable, and the thick rubber outsole provides plenty of protective space between your foot and the hard ground. Plus, deep ridges on the bottom give you traction support, so you’re not slipping out of them.
What reviewers say: “Great style & very comfortable. Good for wider feet.”
Price upon publish date of article: $88
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Best Walking Shoes for High Arches
Courtesy of Teva
Materials: Recycled plastic, rubber outsole
Colorways available: Light multi, black, Atmosphere black and white, Vista blue indigo, Sherbert Multi, and more
Special features: Recycled materials, antimicrobial footbed to prevent odor
Amazon Top-Quality Store Badge on Google: 4.5/5 stars
Zappos Top-Quality Store Badge on Google: 4.8/5 stars
The EVA footbed is rigid enough to hold narrow feet securely, especially with the support of straps that you can tighten or loosen to better fit or adjust for swollen feet. Still, it has the right amount of softness to keep arches from aching no matter how many miles you walk.
Actually, they’re so comfortable that alongside the remarkable traction from the durable rubber outsole, so we can vouch for them as hiking sandals as well. Feel free to jump into watering holes, explore the inside of caves, or simply take them on public transportation — these shoes feature quick-drying webbing, so they’re easy to clean and hold up against every kind of element.
What reviewers say: “I’ve had a hard time finding shoes that I can wear comfortably in a warehouse. I’m on my feet for hours and walking on concrete floors. My other shoes have not done well, leaving my feet tired and sore. I found the Hurricane XLT2 to have a good cushion as well as flexibility in the velcro strap for sizing and tightness.”
Price upon publish date of this article: $65
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Materials: Suede and leather upper; Rubber outsole
Colorways available: Black Leather, Navy Suede, Toffee Suede, Black Suede
Special features: Removable Microfiber Covered EVA insole
DSW Top-Quality Store Badge on Google: 4.9/5 stars
Zappos Top-Quality Store Badge on Google: 4.8/5 stars
Case in point: The Vionic Willa Wedge. Its thick heel, rubber outsole, and deep grooves on the footbed not only mirror the maximalist fashion trend but also feels light. These elements also help cushion your impact and improve traction while walking. The rounded toe, curved tongue, and slip-on style are reminiscent of a women’s loafer, giving the shoes a slightly academic vibe that you can wear to work with skirts and dresses or dress down with jeans on the weekend.
And, despite having some height, these everyday women’s shoes still are podiatrist-approved, as Dr. Parthasarathy says, “I like the heel height, and the suede material is more forgiving for wide feet or those with hammertoes or bunions.”
Price upon publish date of this article: $140
Materials: Knit upper, recycled polyester lining, rubber outsole
Colorways available: Olive Haze and Mercury, Black and Rose Gold, Sunlit Ocean, and Lilac Mist, Black and White, and more
Special features: Breathable engineered knit upper, gusseted tongue, recycled materials
Nordstrom Top-Quality Store Badge on Google: 4.8/5 stars
Zappos Top-Quality Store Badge on Google: 4.8/5 stars
Thanks to its EVA midsole that seemingly molds to your foot shape and lightweight recycled polyester upper and lining, these white sneakers for women support you without weighing you down. What’s more, your feet will be sweat-free and clean all day as the knit upper allows plenty of airflow, and a gusseted tongue helps keep dirt and other debris from sneaking into your shoes while you hike or trounce on gritty city sidewalks.
What reviewers say: “I could not be happier with the fit and comfort of this shoe. I bought these shoes to wear exclusively at work. I was so amazed at the comfort that I had to purchase a second pair to wear in my day-to-day Life.”
Price upon publish date of this article: $145
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Materials: Natural leather patent upper; Piumato leather footbed lining
Colorways available: High Shine Black, High Shine Chocolate, High Shine Mud Green, and more
Special features: EVA sole, sustainable cork
Birkenstock Top-Quality Store Badge on Google: 4.8/5 stars
Zappos Top-Quality Store Badge on Google: 4.8/5 stars
Love them or hate them, Dr. Parthasarathy says everyone can get behind the cushioning provided by the supportive cork footbed and adjustable strap. The material feels so soft that it’s unlikely you’ll encounter blisters throughout your trek or experience aching arches thanks to the deep heel molding, which locks your foot in place and keeps them from sliding out. They’re particularly good shoes for walking all day.
What reviewers say: “Fits well, no break in period. The silicone toe divider is soft and doesn’t hurt or cause redness. I have wide feet, and these are slightly too narrow, but I don’t notice at all. The arch support is amazing, as I have high arches and need good support.”
Price upon publish date of this article: $160
Materials: Knit, leather
Colorways available: Mauve, Bone, Creme Brulee, Granite, Dusk Blue
Special features: Rabbit Foam outsoles
Kizik Top-Quality Store Badge on Google
Despite this, Dr. Parthasarathy raves about their supportive features, like the patented Rabbit Foam outsoles, which are cushioned enough to feel super comfortable and protect feet. Additionally, the stretchy and breathable canvas material is great for every climate and foot type, especially if you need shoes for bunions that have a bit more room. Plus, these stylish walking shoes for women have a low profile silhouette that gives you plenty of ankle mobility and looks great with anything, whether that be jeans, skirts, or cropped pants.
What reviewers say: “These shoes are SO comfortable, and I get continuous compliments from women half my age! I took my granddaughter to Disney World and never had an uncomfortable moment while everyone else in the party (much younger than my 73 years) complained of blisters. Thanks, Kizik!”
Price upon publish date of this article: $109
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Best Shoes for Ankle Support
Materials: Mesh upper; Rubber outsole,
Colorways available: Black/Blue Glass, Andorra/Purple Rose, English/Ombre, Fawn Ombre, Fjord Blue/Ombre, and more
Special features: Water repellent, Eco Anti-odor
Zappos Top-Quality Store Badge on Google: 4.8/5 stars
Additionally, the toe box has plenty of room for all foot types, and a slim, rounded edge that prevents the overall design from looking too bulky and gives the shoe a slightly snug fit.
What reviewers say: “I was skeptical when I ordered my first pair, but I love them. So light but extremely supportive. I use them as everyday shoes.”
Price upon publish date of this article: $135
Materials: Triple-dyed Italian sued; leather lining; recycle leather outsole
Colorways available: Black suede, Almond Raffia; Cognac Suede; Gunmetal Lame; Navy Suede
Special features: Recycled materials, expanded toe box
Sarah Flint Top-Quality Store Badge on Google: 5/5 stars
In fact, Sarah Flint took such great care constructing this casual dress shoe that Dr. Parthasarathy says they’d be good for any foot type. “These heels check most of my boxes: Additional padding and support, round toe box, wider toe box, and a block heel,” she explains. As the knotted bow on top, the insole and leather outsole are made out of recyclable and more eco-friendly materials, so you can feel better about your purchase.
What reviewers say: “These are absolutely exquisite — equally perfect with an evening gown as with a pair of tailored pants or jeans and a blazer. They sparkle like crazy and are as comfortable as they are eye-catching! I went up a full size, which made them super easy to wear for me and ensured the arch support was in exactly the right place.”
Price upon publish date of this article: $550
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Materials: Closed-cell foam
Colorways Available: Matte Black, Stardust, Sage, Navy, White, Neptune Blue, Slate
Special features: Machine washable
Oofos Top-Quality Store Badge on Google: 4.7/5 stars
REI Top-Quality Store Badge on Google: 4.9/5 stars
But you don’t need to set a personal best to indulge in these lightweight, breathable foam sandals. Everything about them, from the adjustable velcro strap to their pleasing colorways like sage and blush pink, will have you wanting to slip into them every day. Although marketed as women’s house slippers, we recommend promoting them to the outdoor status and fully leaning into the athletic trend taking over celebrity style right now by pairing them with crew-length socks, à la Gigi Hadid.
What reviewers say: “I absolutely love the color and fit! Have other slides and they don’t fit across the arch. You can adjust these shoes and make them fit right.”
Price upon publish date of this article: $80
Rothy’s The Flat.
Courtesy of Rothy’s
Materials: Signature knit made from recyclable plastic bottles
Colorways Available: Black Solid, Picnic, Dragon Fruit, Desert Flat, and more
Special features: Algae-based foam, sustainable materials
It’s hard to believe that the funky cheetah print shade and adorable ballet pink colorways are made out of recycled plastic, especially considering how criminally comfortable the breathable knit fabric feels. Even the insoles consider the planet, as they’re constructed from algae that’s harmful to our marine ecosystem but super beneficial for foot support.
Don’t be afraid to opt for one of the lighter colorways, since you can toss these comfortable women’s flats to make them look brand new after weeks of wear.
What reviewers say: “I love the lightweight comfort, the color and coolness. Barely know I have them on.”
Price upon publish date of this article: $129
Courtesy of Allbirds
Materials: Eucalyptus tree fiber tread
Colorways available: Kaikoura White, Mist, Navy Night, Marine Blue, Jet Black, and more
Special features: Responsibly-sourced materials, carbon-neutral certified manufacturing
Top Quality Store Badge on Google
They come in enough colorways to fill a celebrity-sized fashion closet, from punchy colors like bright orange and fuchsia pink to everyday neutrals like black and cream. They’re also made for nearly every foot type since the signature SweetFoam midsole feels like walking on clouds and gently conforms to the foot for stability and comfort. Meanwhile, stretchy knit fabric keeps airflow moving and the overall design lightweight, so if it weren’t for all the compliments you’ll receive on their polished style, you might forget you’re wearing shoes at all.
Oh, and did we mention how the eco-friendly brand uses materials that are responsibly sourced from FSC Certified forests and recycled plastic bottles? What’s great for your feet is also good for the planet.
What reviewers say: “This is my third pair of Tree Runners, and, honestly, this pair is the best ever. Not only are they incredibly comfortable, but they’re basically the most gorgeous color of orange I’ve ever seen. I love how my feet never get too hot in these. Everyone needs these!”
Price upon publish date of this article: $105
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What to Look for in the Best Everyday Shoes for Women
- Support: “A supportive shoe should not be able to fold completely in half,” says Dr. Parthasarathy. Ideally, it should have a removable insole so you can replace it when the cushioning starts to wear down. Also, Dr. Parthasarathy adds that a casual women’s shoe should have a supportive heel counter, which is a firm material in the back of your shoe that provides more stability.
- Cushioning: Think of cushioning as the protective barrier between your foot and whatever surface it touches — asphalt, rocky terrain, grass, etc. You want something that’s thick and soft enough to keep your feet safe from the impact of these surfaces, but it should still be plenty firm for stability (remember, your shoe shouldn’t be able to fold in half). Also, even basic everyday shoes for women shouldn’t be too heavy, especially if you plan on running or doing more intense activities throughout the day.
- Materials: Whether you plan on running around all day or actually running, it always helps to opt for a breathable material like mesh, cotton, or canvas. If you suffer from conditions like hyperhidrosis, seek ventilation via eyelets on the sides of the shoe. Moreover, you’ll want a more flexible material, such as EVA foam, if you have bunions or hammertoes, says Dr. Parthasarathy.
The Best Everyday Shoes for Different Foot Types and Foot Conditions
- Women’s everyday shoes for overpronation: Everyday walking or running shoes for overpronation should have stability features that “prevent your foot from rolling inwards,” says Dr. Parthasarathy. These shoes typically have extra padding in the heel, a firm midsole, and an inflexible build.
- Women’s everyday shoes for flat feet: Arch support is key here — try on a shoe that comfortably supports the inner arch of your foot. When finding shoes for flat feet, you’ll want something with a removable insole to ensure you always have enough support, even once the cushioning starts to wear down. Additionally, good traction on the bottom of the shoe will keep you stable and prevent slippage.
- Women’s everyday shoes for plantar fasciitis: Dr. Parthasarathy tells us that the most supportive shoes for plantar fasciitis depend on your foot type but that the shoe would ideally follow her four key guidelines: a firm build, a removable inside, a heel counter, and support in the mid-arch area. Following these rules can prevent repeated stress on the ligament on the bottom of your foot.
- Women’s everyday shoes for bunions: Opt for a shoe with a “wide toe box and softer materials, like mesh or suede, that are able to stretch and accommodate your bunion,” suggests Dr. Parthasarathy. They shouldn’t have a super high heel, either — it’s best to keep it under 2 inches.
- Women’s everyday shoes for wide feet: No surprise here — shoes for wide feet should have a wide toe box. Dr. Parthasarathy adds that stretchy materials are also necessary, similar to what you need if you have bunions. And while you don’t want anything narrow or too tight, the shoe should still have a snug fit.
- Women’s everyday shoes for high arches: To accommodate high arches, look for a “a neutral or over supinator shoe that will prevent your foot from rolling outwards,” says Dr. Parthasarathy. The best running or walking shoes for high arches should have plenty of cushioning, a wide toe box, supportive midsoles, and a thick heel.
How We Chose the Best Everyday Shoes for Women
For more than 75 years, Footwear News has been the shoe authority. Our coverage spans top industry news, retail trends, head-to-toe fashion, athletic and outdoor analysis, and more. Footwear News’ global network of editors has carefully curated all product selections featured using our expansive brand knowledge and thorough research to find quality, long-lasting items.
To compile this list of the best everyday shoes for women, we conducted hours of research. We first consulted board-certified podiatrist Dr. Priya Parthasarathy for her expert recommendations and insights into what to look for in an everyday shoe. Then, we spent time scouring the footwear market, evaluating each shoe’s comfort level, style, and durability. We also considered any extra factors like customer reviews, social media clout, number of colors, size range, and special features such as the use of sustainable materials. Finally, our editors personally tested several of the shoes and shared their results with the team to land on these top-rated picks. Learn more about Footwear News here.
Meet the Expert
Dr. Priya Parthasarathy, DPM, is a board-certified podiatrist who serves on the Board of Directors of the American Board of Podiatric Medicine (ABPM) and is Chair of the APMA Communications Committee. She is also the recipient of Podiatry Management’s Future Star Award and the American Podiatric Medical Association’s (APMA) prestigious Rising Star Award.
Meet the Author
Irene Richardson is a Brooklyn-based writer who covers fashion and beauty for brands such as InStyle, Byrdie, Brides, and Travel + Leisure. She’s always seeking real-world inspiration for her stories, whether that means stopping fellow joggers to ask how comfortable their shoes are or scouring reviews online. Richardson used Dr. Parthasarathy’s input, customer reviews, and research into materials and shoe construction to write this story on the best everyday shoes for women.
