Best Collab Sneakers
Adidas by Stella McCartney Ultraboost Light Shoes
Best Collab Sneakers
Adidas by Stella McCartney Ultraboost Light Shoes
Now 30% Off
Credit: AdidasA comfort-led designer collab that will stand the test of time. The sleek silhouette has premium cushioning for extra responsiveness.
Sizes: 5–10½
Color: Pink, black, green
What reviewers say: “This shoe is by far the most lightweight, comfortable with good grip on any surface. It’s stylish and flirtatious. I do body pump, and body combat at the gym for group fitness training.”
Best All-Terrain Shoe
Salomon XT-6 Sneakers
Best All-Terrain Shoe
Salomon XT-6 Sneakers
Credit: NordstromWhether you’re hiking trails or walking through the city, Salomon’s sneakers have a grippy lug sole and an easy lacing system, so you never have to worry about your shoes coming untied.
Sizes: 5-14
Heel drop: 10mm
Colors: Black, pewter, ghost gray, white, vanilla, blue, shortbread
What reviewers say: “These shoes are a permanent piece in my collection and once they wear out I’m going to buy another! They’re light weight, comfortable, and not too flashy. Perfect sneaker to have in your everyday rotation. I really recommend.”
Best Running Sneakers
Nike Pegasus 40 Road Running Shoes
Best Running Sneakers
Nike Pegasus 40 Road Running Shoes
Credit: NikeThe Pegasus is one of Nike’s most iconic styles, a fan favorite for decades. Through 40 iterations, its cultlike following keeps coming back for the shoe’s extra padding at the tongue and collar, support from the midfoot band, and durable foam—to name a few key features.
Sizes: 5–12
Heel drop: 10mm
Colors: White, black, volt, and nine more
What reviewers are saying: “My physiotherapist recommended these to me as I suffer with spinal arthritis and walk a lot. They are very comfortable to walk in and what’s more, my back doesn’t hurt during or after walking.”
Advertisement - Continue Reading Below
Best Everyday Sneakers
On Cloud 5
Best Everyday Sneakers
On Cloud 5
Credit: On RunningOn’s sneakers are a favorite of both dedicated runners and casual walkers. The Zero Gravity foam lends itself to soft landings followed by powerful takeoffs. Wearing a pair is as close to running on clouds as you can get.
Sizes: 5–11
Heel drop: 7mm
Colors: Black, shell, pearl, and 12 more
Best Chunky Sneakers
Klaw 528 Sneakers
Best Chunky Sneakers
Klaw 528 Sneakers
Credit: KlawChunky silhouettes aren’t just fashionable—they also offer additional cushioning underfoot. These sleek sneakers from Klaw also have a wide toe box for a little extra room if needed.
Sizes: 6–11
Heel drop: 7mm
Colors: White, blue, gray, and four more
What reviewers say: “I finally had a chance to wear my KLAW sneakers for a proper walk this weekend and they did well. They didn’t rub on the back the of my heels or on the sides of my toes, which is, well, a miracle and my feet didn»t feel quite as fatigued and sore after my walk like they normally do.”
Best Platform Sneakers
Chloé Nama Platform Sneakers
Best Platform Sneakers
Chloé Nama Platform Sneakers
Chloé’s stitched sneakers have a whimsical design and come in a range of colors, but they aren’t just pretty—they also have a cushioned platform for elevated comfort.
Sizes: 5–15
Heel drop: 20.3mm
Colors: Cosmic blue, black, pop orange, and more
What reviewers are saying: “I spent two weeks in Europe and wore these shoes every single day. Walked miles and up stairs all day and never got foot pains. If you’re debating whether to get these shoes… get them.”
Advertisement - Continue Reading Below
Best Lightweight Sneakers
APL TechLoom Zipline
Best Lightweight Sneakers
APL TechLoom Zipline
Lightweight and breathable, APL’s advanced running shoe doubles as a lifestyle staple. The brand’s Zipline sneakers give both lateral and longitudinal support without sacrificing flexibility.
Sizes: 5–11
Heel drop: 8mm
Colors: Black, and 49 others
What reviewers are saying: “These shoes live up to the hype. They look and feel amazing, and held up to three days straight of half marathons worth of walking right out of the box, no blisters!”
Most Versatile Sneakers
Golden Goose Super-Star Sneakers
Most Versatile Sneakers
Golden Goose Super-Star Sneakers
This Golden Goose pair can easily be your go-to everyday sneaker. The leather will mold to the shape of your foot as you wear it, and the neutral hues with pops of colors make for playful styling.
Sizes: 5–12
Colors: White/gold
What reviewers say: “I love these GG shoes! I have them worn many, many times already! They seem to go with everything!”
Best Podiatrist-Approved Sneakers
Hoka Bondi 8
Best Podiatrist-Approved Sneakers
Hoka Bondi 8
Credit: HokaWith extended heel geometry and rear crash pads, these Hokas guarantee a smooth stride. And the American Podiatric Medical Association’s Seal of Acceptance means you can rest assured these shoes promote all-day comfort.
Sizes: 5–12
Heel drop: 4mm
Colors: Cream, shadow, lunar rock, and more
What reviewers are saying: “These are probably my tenth pair of Hoka Bondi’s. I can always count on the Bondi to keep me comfortable when I’m on my feet for ten-plus hours a day. They never fail to keep me comfortable. I love the roomy toe box in these shoes. I never knew I needed that!”
Advertisement - Continue Reading Below
Best Machine-Washable Sneakers
Allbirds Tree Runner Sneakers
Best Machine-Washable Sneakers
Allbirds Tree Runner Sneakers
This pair’s next-level comfort comes from its supportive midsole and cooling eucalyptus fiber uppers. And if they ever get a bit dirty, just throw them in the laundry—they’re machine-washable.
Sizes: 5–11
Heel drop: 2mm
Colors: Mist, jet black, marine blue, and more
What reviewers are saying: “These are the most comfortable shoes I’ve ever worn.”
Most Comfortable Simple Shoe
Koio Capri Sneakers
Most Comfortable Simple Shoe
Koio Capri Sneakers
Credit: KoioIf you prefer things sleek and streamlined, Koio’s Capri sneakers are a simple yet comfortable addition to your everyday rotation. A tech foam insole ensures extra comfort.
Sizes: 5–11
Colors: White, limestone, pebble, and 10 more.
What reviewers are saying: “Certainly the nicest leather sneakers I’ve ever seen or owned. Exceptionally comfortable foot bed.”
Best Designer Sneakers
Gucci Run Sneakers
Best Designer Sneakers
Gucci Run Sneakers
Credit: GucciFor a luxury sneaker that will feel comfortable when you’ve been on your feet all day, opt for these Gucci sneakers with a comfortable rubber sole.
Sizes: 4–12
Colors: White, pink, black, silver
Advertisement - Continue Reading Below
Best Sneakers for Women
Lululemon Blissfeel 2 Running Shoes
Best Sneakers for Women
Lululemon Blissfeel 2 Running Shoes
Credit: LululemonLululemon studied the anatomy of women’s feet to design sneakers with a tailored fit and feel—something done less often than you may think. The 3-D-molded midfoot hugs your foot while supporting your stride.
Sizes: 5–12
Heel drop: 9.5mm
Colors: White, vapor, silverstone, pink, and more
What reviewers are saying: “I generally get some discomfort and my knee and hip, and when I wear these shoes the discomfort either goes away or isn’t as bad. I recommend these to everybody! If you have wider feet size up. These shoes are snug on the sides.”
Best Cushioned Sneakers
Asics Gel-Nimbus 25
Best Cushioned Sneakers
Asics Gel-Nimbus 25
With this pair of Asics, dual cushioning and gel technology create a neutral sneaker that’s at the top of its category in support and comfort. An OrthoLite sockliner improves step-in comfort as well.
Sizes: 5–13
Heel drop: 8mm
Colors: Cream, pink wave, white, and more
What reviewers are saying: “I work as a nurse and I’m constantly on my feet. I was looking for light and comfortable shoes for 12-hour shifts. I am so thrilled to have found the right shoes. I love how much cushion it provides and bounce I get when running around during my shift.”
Best Environmentally Conscious Sneaker
Cariuma Salvas Sneakers
Best Environmentally Conscious Sneaker
Cariuma Salvas Sneakers
Credit: CariumaCariuma’s take on a classic white tennis shoe is made from recycled mesh, recycled plastic bottles, and premium leather. With signature memory foam and a padded collar, they will feel plush and springy all day. (And you can feel good about shopping: The brand has also pledged to plant 10 trees for every pair sold.)
Sizes: 5–13
Colors: White
What reviewers are saying: “These are very comfortable and have good arch support. I have a hard time finding sneakers that work for me and these are super comfortable.”
Advertisement - Continue Reading Below
Most Innovative Sneakers
Courser Uno Sneakers
Most Innovative Sneakers
Courser Uno Sneakers
Courser sneakers merge luxury craftsmanship with high-performance technology. An advanced carbon-fiber plate adds stability and flexibility as well. The result? A pair of sneakers that look unique and feel comfortable.
Sizes: 5½–11
Colors: Cyan, acid green, black, and more
What reviewers are saying: “Courser is my new go-to travel shoe. They work in 80% of my shoe scenarios, from working out to hiking to city walking and airport. Highly recommend. I’m starting to collect in all colors.”
What to look for in the most comfortable shoes
Edward Berthelot//Getty ImagesWhen you’re shopping for comfortable sneakers, the most important thing is that they fit well. Your toes should have room to wiggle and should not touch the end of the shoe. Styles with foam cushioning will be soft underfoot, while rubber will be a bit more durable, but ultimately not as cushy.
Why trust Harper’s Bazaar?
For more than 150 years, Harper’s Bazaar has been the preeminent fashion, beauty, and lifestyle resource for women at every age. We cover what’s new and what’s next in fashion by working with the world’s leading authorities in ready-to-wear, footwear, accessories, and more. Every story we publish has been thoroughly researched and vetted by our team of editors and industry experts.
Gaby Keiderling is a freelance writer, working on fashion, lifestyle, travel, and sports features.
Aemilia Madden is a freelance writer, editor, and consultant with over 10 years of experience in the fashion industry. She’s written for publications including Vogue, Harper’s Bazaar, W, and Fashionista. Previously, she was the senior fashion editor at The Zoe Report. In her time away from the internet, Aemilia is probably out on a hike.
Advertisement - Continue Reading Below
Advertisement - Continue Reading Below
Advertisement - Continue Reading Below
ncG1vNJzZmivp6x7qa3RqZyrq5KWx6Kt0WeaqKVfm660tMiopWisopq7pb%2BOoGttamNqhXSDjqamrKxdmLyuss6rq5qanJp6tLrEmqKeqqNk