Podiatrists Swear By These Comfy, Cheap Shoes That Are Legitimately Amazing

For shoes you can slip on and go, Dr. Bruce Pinker, a board-certified podiatrist at Progressive Foot Care, recommends these Skechers sneakers. He says they have a “good, flexible rubber outsole for adequate traction, [and a] lightweight and shock absorbing midsole.” Memory foam adds the perfect amount of cushioning for all-day comfort.

• Available sizes: 5 — 13 (select half and wide sizes available)
• Available styles: 28

Everyone needs a warm, cozy pair of shoes for cooler days, and these suede booties — which are lined with the softest faux fur — fit the bill. Plus, Dr. Pinker confirms that “memory foam adds comfort” while their water-resistant properties “provides added protection.”

• Available sizes: 5 — 11 (select half sizes available)
• Available colors: 6

Flats get a bad rap for being uncomfortable, but Dr. Pinker stresses that these TOMS slip-ons break the mold. He identifies their cushioned EVA outsoles as the comfort magic maker and explains that they’re lightweight and “designed with vegan materials” as added bonuses.

• Available sizes: 5 — 10 (select half sizes available)
• Available styles: 5

When you want to rock a pair of sandals but have a lot of walking to do, these cushioned sandals are the way to go since they have plenty of arch support. Dr. Pinker says that in addition to being supportive, he also favors the “durable outsole” design and that they’re made from quality materials overall.

• Available sizes: 6 — 12 (select half sizes available)
• Available colors: 10

Whether you’re traveling or on your feet all day at work, Dr. Gregory Alvarez, DPM, FACFAS, and a provider at Ankle & Foot Centers of America, says that you could easily rock these slip-on shoes all day long. He explains that they “feature a lightweight, breathable design, and responsive cushioning.” And the slip-resistant soles provide a safety factor.

• Available sizes: 5 — 13 (select half and wide sizes available)
• Available colors: 14

It’s time to jump aboard the Crocs train, and these specific lightweight clogs are the style that Dr. Alvarez recommends. He notes they “offer exceptional cushioning through their proprietary foam, which conforms to your feet for personalized comfort.” And should they ever get dirty, give them a rinse to restore them to clean.

• Available sizes: 6 — 15
• Available colors: 10

There are so many pairs of running shoes to choose from. Luckily, you have Dr. Alvarez on your side: He suggests these ASICS running shoes, calling them a “versatile” choice for “walking, light jogging, or casual outings.” He adds that the gel cushioning and durable rubber soles combine for “excellent shock absorption and stability.”

• Available sizes: 5 — 12 (select half and wide sizes available)
• Available colors: 11

Dr. Alvarez calls arch support one of those “key features” for comfort. And these boat shoes have it (in the form of removable insoles), plus a faux fur lining for extra coziness and warmth. The laces are adjustable, so you should be able to slide your foot into the shoe without having to bend over. Traction keeps you from sliding around.

• Available sizes: 6 — 9.5 (select half sizes available)
• Available colors: 4

It can be tough to find stylish booties that pass the all-day wear test. However, this specific pair has a stable 3-inch block heel (and platform in the front), shock-absorbing cushioning, and exceptional arch support, which is a major factor for comfort per Dr. Alvarez. Use the zipper on the side to get them on and off with ease.

• Available sizes: 5 — 10 (select half sizes available)
• Available colors: 3

These ankle boots weigh just five ounces — you can’t get much more lightweight. And beyond that, they feature insoles that support your arches (a must-have for comfort, as Dr. Alvarez explains) and shock absorption to cushion your every step. The laces are adjustable for a perfect fit.

• Available sizes: 6 — 9 (select half sizes available)
• Available colors: 4

A best-seller on Amazon, these suede clogs have made a major comeback in the fashion world. And luckily, you don’t have to sacrifice comfort to add them to your shoe rotation. They boast a cork footbed that molds to your foot for support in the arches and throughout, which is crucial, per Dr. Alvarez. They also feature a deep heel cup and soft lining.

• Available sizes: 5.5-6 — 14 (select half sizes available)
• Available colors: 8

Another crucial component to identify shoes that are actually comfortable? They should have a wide toe box, shares Dr. Alvarez. These running shoes meet this criteria, as their wide toe box design allows your toes to spread and move naturally as you walk or run. A non-elevated heel, foam padding, and a moisture-wicking lining combine to up the comfort of this pick even further.

• Available sizes: 5 — 11 (select half sizes available)
• Available colors: 7

For slip-ons that meet Dr. Alvarez’s wide toe box design criteria, these boat shoes are perfect. They also boast supportive insoles (which are removable if desired), a breathable canvas material, and a lightweight design.

• Available sizes: 6 — 9.5 (select half sizes available)
• Available colors: 6

These lightweight loafers are surprisingly low-cost and surprisingly comfortable to wear. The rounded, wide-toe box gives your toes plenty of room to wiggle — a crucial part of comfort, per Dr. Alvarez — and the memory foam insoles are cushioned and cozy.

• Available sizes: 4 — 12
• Available styles: 36

It doesn’t matter if you’re headed to the office or on a brunch date, these stylish leather loafers are the pair to reach for. They come recommended by Dr. Elena Wellens, DPM at Rothman Orthopaedics, who favors them for their “memory foam insole and extra heel padding.” They’re lightweight, nonslip, and feature a slight wedge heel.

• Available sizes: 6 — 11 (select half sizes available)
• Available colors: 13

With 14,000-plus five-star reviews on Amazon, plus the backing of Dr. Wellens, these heeled loafers are clearly worth a buy since they’re equal parts cute and comfy. “These are 100% leather with a sturdy rubber sole and comfortable Ortholite insole,” adds Dr. Wellens. The insole’s open-cell foam footbed offers breathable support, and with wide, narrow, whole, and half sizes up for grabs, you’ll be able to find the perfect fit.

• Available sizes: 5 — 12 (select half, wide, and narrow sizes available)
• Available colors: 4

Starting to get into running? Dr. Wellens calls these ASICS running shoes a “great entry model from a top line running shoe company.” The price is tough to beat, and Dr. Wellens likes that the shoes have “good shock absorption in the sole” to cushion your every step. They’re made from mesh for breathability, and they’re vegan-friendly.

• Available sizes: 5 — 12 (select half sizes available)
• Available colors: 5

A pair of sophisticated pumps for dressier occasions is a must. And you’ll be able to wear these ones all day or night long. The key is the flexible, cushioned liner that “provides extra comfort,” explains Dr. Wellens. She also likes that they’re “made of vegan-friendly synthetic materials and [have] a traction sole” to keep you firmly on your feet.

• Available sizes: 5 — 12 (select half and wide sizes available)
• Available colors: 3

Jerick Sobie, a board-certified pedorthist (a foot care specialist trained in the biomechanics of the feet and ankles) and co-owner of Lucky Feet Shoes, stresses the importance of choosing shoes with nonslip soles, calling them “a must for stability.” These winter boots boast this feature, plus they have a faux fur lining, 4-millimeter EVA shock absorption, and 2-millimeter foam that combine for warmth and comfort in even less-than-optimal weather situations. Even with all of this, they’re still lightweight.

• Available sizes: 5 — 11 (select half sizes available)
• Available colors: 7

Another instance when having nonslip soles on your shoes is important, per Sobie? When “navigating slippery spots” outdoors. And these lace-up sneakers meet this criteria (they have rubberized traction on the bottoms), while also looking fashionable thanks to their combination of colors. Memory foam provides optimal cushioning.

• Available sizes: 5.5 — 11 (select half sizes available)
• Available colors: 7

Chunky sneakers like these are the “it” shoe of the moment. And they boast a special sawtooth outsole for superior traction on wet surfaces, in line with Sobie’s suggestion. The sneakers are made from faux leather that’s easy to clean.

• Available sizes: 6 — 11 (select half sizes available)
• Available colors: 8

Sticking with Sobie’s recommendation of buying picks with nonslip soles for the most stability, these stylish sneakers are another top option (the rubberized soles have a great grip). The shoes have retro vibes, they’re lightweight and flexible, and you can wear them for errand runs or dressier situations.

• Available sizes: 5.5 — 11 (select half sizes available)
• Available colors: 6

Sobie explains that picking shoes with stable, nonslip soles is especially important “if you're on your feet a lot.” And these skateboard sneakers are certainly ones you’ll never want to take off. They feature cushioned foam insoles that’ll conform to the shape of your feet for superior comfort, and the traction on the bottom is designed to be slip resistant, even on wet surfaces.

• Available sizes: 6 — 11 (select half sizes available)
• Available colors: 3

Sobie also recommends that you prioritize finding shoes made from “lightweight, breathable materials [that] help to keep your feet comfortable and cool all day long.” And these walking shoes are pretty much the definition of this, as the knitted fabric and mesh lining allow air to flow freely. The shoes slip on and off for convenience.

• Available sizes: 6 — 11 (select half sizes available)
• Available colors: 8

These adidas sneakers are cloud-like in that they weigh next to nothing — meeting that “lightweight” criteria that Sobie laid out — and they offer supremely comfortable cushioning to make you feel like you’re floating. They’ll quickly become your go-to shoe for everyday wear.

• Available sizes: 5 — 11 (select half sizes available)
• Available colors: 9

When it comes to supportive running shoes, they tend to be a little clunky. But this pick is far from that — they’re surprisingly lightweight (as recommended by Sobie) to not weigh you down on your runs, walks, or other exercise routines. In addition, the shoes absorb shock, they’re moisture wicking, and there’s optimal grip on the bottoms.

• Available sizes: 6 — 11 (select half sizes available)
• Available colors: 8

The 3D mesh fabric of these walking shoes will keep your feet cool and comfortable throughout the day — this element is a must, per Sobie. The shoes boast a cushioned insole that delivers exceptional shock absorption, and a unique X-shaped plate on the bottom that gives you extra stability.

• Available sizes: 6 — 11 (select half sizes available)
• Available colors: 8

Dr. Jodi Schoenhaus, DPM, RPhs, FACFAS, and board-certified podiatrist at the Foot, Ankle & Leg Vein Center, refers to these slip-on loafers as “stylish yet comfortable,” adding that the secret to the comfiness is the “cushioned arch support” — a rarity for flats.

• Available sizes: 6.5 — 13 (select half and wide sizes available)
• Available colors: 16

As their name suggests, these Project Cloud sandals do indeed feel like walking on clouds — over time, the natural cork footbed molds to your foot's shape, ensuring a precise fit and unmatched comfort. This pick comes directly recommended by Dr. Schoenhaus, who calls out the adjustable straps as another perk.

• Available sizes: 5.5 — 11 (select half sizes available)
• Available colors: 6

To meet the qualifications of comfortable yet cheap, Dr. Schoenhaus turns to Skechers shoes. She recommends them “for their shock absorption and arch support.” This particular pair of boat shoes from the brand has these features and more; they’re lightweight, machine washable, and quick to slip on.

• Available sizes: 5 — 12 (select half and wide sizes available)
• Available colors: 7

Another pair of shoes from Dr. Schoenhaus’s recommended brand of Skechers? These running sneakers, which also sport a 4.6-star overall rating on the site. The shoes have lightweight cushioning, a breathable design, and a lace-up front.

• Available sizes: 5 — 11 (select half and wide sizes available)
• Available colors: 8

For active situations, Dr. Schoenhaus says that she gravitates toward brands like ASICS. These particular supportive shoes from the brand are considered “volleyball shoes,” but they can serve you well in a wider range of exercise endeavors. They’re supportive, stable, and slip resistant. Plus, the mesh panels will help keep you cool.

• Available sizes: 5 — 13 (select half sizes available)
• Available colors: 8

Take your pickleball game (whether on an indoor or outdoor court) to the next level with these gel-infused shoes that’ll move with you — the grooved outsoles are wildly flexible. Plus, they’re plenty stable. The shoes are made by one of Dr. Schoenhaus’s recommended brands, so you can feel extra assured about your purchase.

• Available sizes: 5 — 12 (select half sizes available)
• Available colors: 8

Hit the trails with these running shoes that are designed for off-roading. Reliable traction is at the heart of this pick — it’ll help to keep you securely upright, even on rough terrain — and a foam midsole ensures every step is comfortable. New Balance is another brand that Dr. Schoenhaus specifically recommends for adventurous activities.

• Available sizes: 5 — 12 (select half, wide, and extra-wide sizes available)
• Available colors: 11

Another pair of kicks to consider from a brand recommended by Dr. Schoenhaus? These New Balance cross-trainers that are cute, comfy, and budget-friendly. They feature a breathable mesh material that’ll stretch and flex with every step. The rubberized outsoles are a traction champ.

• Available sizes: 5 — 12 (select half and wide sizes available)
• Available colors: 24

Dr. Jason Spector, DPM, MS, AACFAS at MyFootSpecialist.com, favors Saucony’s Cohesion series of running shoes, calling them “an excellent choice for support and comfort.” The Cohesion 13 running shoes have superior cushioning, durable rubber outsoles, and “shock absorption to reduce strain on your feet,” adds Dr. Spector.

• Available sizes: 5 — 12 (select half and wide sizes available)
• Available colors: 14

The most budget-friendly pair of Saucony from the bunch, the Cohesion 14 shoes don’t skimp when it comes to quality. They’re the ultimate pair of road runners with “durable outsoles [that] provide excellent stability for daily wear and exercise,” explains Dr. Spector. They’re cushioned with added heel support for a secure hold.

• Available sizes: 5 — 12 (select half and wide sizes available)
• Available colors: 14

The lightest in weight of this trio of Saucony shoes, the Cohesion 16 sneakers still “feature moderate arch support, a breathable design, and a roomy toe box for added comfort,” shares Dr. Spector. They’re well cushioned, and durable enough to last through miles and miles.

• Available sizes: 5 — 12 (select half and wide sizes available)
• Available colors: 11

Just like Dr. Schoenhaus, Dr. Spector also often recommends New Balance shoes, calling them a “reliable brand.” He says these specific New Balance sneakers are ideal for “low to moderate activity levels” with their lightweight foam cushioning and rubber outsoles. The sporty pick is more than 45 colors.

• Available sizes: 5 — 12 (select half and wide sizes available)
• Available colors: 47

These New Balance shoes are a runner’s dream. They boast “features like lightweight EVA foam midsoles for shock absorption, breathable mesh uppers, and sturdy outsoles for traction and stability,” shares Dr. Spector. And a unique aspect? The shoes have a no-sew construction for a sleeker fit and feel.

• Available sizes: 5 — 12 (select half and wide sizes available)
• Available colors: 5