How to find comfortable shoes
Last month, Amazon announced a new feature for shoppers. It was called Virtual trial. Customers can use their smartphone camera to see how they will look in their new shoes. Although the feature works with thousands of styles, it doesn’t tell you if the shoes fit you. It only shows you how you will look when you wear them.
Finding comfortable shoes, especially if you’re on your feet all day, can take a bit of trial and error. To speed up the search, we’ve put together a list of shoes that will provide all-day comfort.
Why standing is so hard on the feet
When you walk or run, your feet rest as your weight shifts back and forth. When you are standing, however, your entire body weight is constantly supported by both feet. You are not resting. Plus, maintaining your balance means that every muscle from your feet to your core is engaged. Due to these two factors, standing still can cause more discomfort than walking for an equal amount of time.
What makes a shoe more comfortable?
While many people focus on just one factor when buying a comfortable shoe, there are several aspects to consider.
Cut
The most important aspect of buying a comfortable shoe is getting the right size. Everyone’s feet are a little different. Even if two people have size 8 shoes, the same pair of shoes will not necessarily fit both people. A person may have a wide foot that constantly pushes on top of the shoe and creates a painful corn or callus. The other may have a narrow foot that moves inside the shoe and creates a blister. When shopping for a comfortable shoe, consider all aspects of size, not just length.
Material
The material is also crucial for comfort. And again, in more ways than you probably realize. Yes, you definitely want a soft, malleable material. Shoes should be soft, otherwise you won’t walk very well. Additionally, you want a breathable material as it helps to minimize bacterial issues – there’s a reason why. athletic socks are made of moisture-wicking fabric, not plastic bags. Soft leather, knit, suede and stretch shoes are often the best for comfort.
Support
The insole of a shoe is essential for support. Without support for your arch, your entire body weight is supported on just a few small points. It’s the difference between doing push-ups with your hands open or riding on your fingertips. If you want to be as comfortable as possible, you need proper arch support.
Shock absorption
Every step you take is a collision between your body and a solid object: the ground. Think about how quickly your hands would tire if they repeatedly hit a wall. Your shoe’s outsole absorbs the impact of walking (or running), so it puts less strain on your body.
The best shoes for people on their feet all day
Women’s shoes
These shoes from Allbirds are made with eucalyptus fiber. They are lightweight, breathable and eco-friendly. These casual shoes have a moisture-wicking insole and are ideal for everyday wear and warm weather.
Sold by all the birds
Hoka Women’s One One Clifton 8 Running Shoes
With a clean silhouette, lightweight design and extra cushioning, these sneakers are a great option for all-day comfort. They feature a plush collar with a responsive design and an elongated heel to give you a softer, smoother landing.
Sold by Amazon, Dick Sporting Goods and road runner sports
Adidas Ultraboost 5.0 DNA Shoes
If running is part of your plans, Adidas is a trusted name in shoes that can give you what you need. These shoes have a molded heel that provides a comfortable natural fit and sturdy support. They are made for durability and traction.
Sold by Adidas, Amazon, Dick Sporting Goodsand Macy’s
Birkenstock Arizona sandals in suede leather
Birkenstock is a brand known for its exquisite comfort, and these soft suede leather sandals are no exception. They feature adjustable straps with a cork footbed that naturally molds to the shape of your foot to provide maximum support and comfort.
Sold by Birkenstock
Men’s shoes
If you’re looking for a smart, eco-friendly option, these casual shoes are made from eucalyptus fibers and Brazilian sugarcane. They are lightweight, breathable and have an anti-odor insole which makes them ideal for everyday use and in hot weather.
Sold by all the birds
Hoka Men’s One One Clifton 8 Running Shoes
These shoes have earned the APMA Seal of Acceptance for promoting foot health. They’re designed for comfort, traction and durability, but still deliver a light and responsive action that’s sleek and stable.
Sold by Amazon, Dick Sporting Goods and road runner sports
Adidas Ultraboost 1.0 DNA Shoes
Talk about comfort, these trainers have a knit upper that molds to the foot with a supportive fit. The upgraded midsole provides an uplifting boost that adds comfort with every step. For the earth-conscious individual, these shoes are made in part using Parley Ocean Plastic to reduce plastic waste.
Sold by Adidas
Birkenstock Arizona Soft nubuck leather insole
Sandals are the ultimate comfort shoe – nothing is naturally more breathable. This offering from Birkenstock is made of nubuck leather, which is soft to the touch and provides a luxurious wearing experience.
Sold by Birkenstock
Children’s shoes
Allbirds Smallbirds Wool Socks
These eco-friendly shoes are made from natural materials to leave a small carbon footprint. The focus is on comfort, so your kids won’t be embarrassed to wear them all day. If they get dirty, no worries because these Allbirds are machine washable.
Sold by all the birds
New Balance 888 V2 Kids’ Lace-Up Running Shoe
New Balance has a classic sneaker design that gives kids a taste of nostalgia. The shoes have a high density foam collar for support and a high tech midsole for comfort and support. The synthetic upper is breathable, while the rubber sole provides traction and shock absorption.
Sold by Amazon, Macy’s and road runner sports
Sometimes all it takes to make a great shoe is an ingenious idea. These comfortable kids’ shoes have a remarkably grippy outsole inspired by the hugely popular plastic construction toy. The shoes are made from at least 50% recycled content and are available in bright, kid-friendly colors.
Sold by Adidas
Birkenstock Arizona Child Birkibuc
Children can also wear sandals. This iconic Birkenstock shoe features a classic two-strap design, suede lining and the company’s signature sockliner that promotes overall foot wellbeing and health.
Sold by Birkenstock
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Allen Foster written for BestReviews. BestReviews has helped millions of consumers simplify their buying decisions, saving them time and money.
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