Best Everyday Shoe
Skechers Go Walk Arch Fit 2.0 Cassy
Pros
- Cushioned insole with arch support
- Removable insole
- Supportive and stable for standing
- Hands-free, slip-in design
- APMA Seal of Acceptance
Cons
- Require break-in period
- May not be suitable for high arches
Key Specs
- Removable insole: Yes
- Cushioning level: Moderate
- Width options: Medium, Wide
- Sizes: Women’s 5.5–10.5
Although these shoes have laces, their patented Skechers hands-free slip-in technology offers a perfect hybrid between sneakers and slip-on shoes. That makes them especially convenient for slipping on and heading out the door, whether you’re taking the kids to school, walking your dog, or going to the grocery store. With no-tie laces, you never have to worry about them becoming undone.
These shoes hold the American Podiatric Medical Association (APMA) Seal of Acceptance, which means that they’ve been reviewed by APMA podiatrists to make sure they promote foot health. They also have a removable insole with arch support designed for comfort and support; you can also swap in your own custom orthotic insole if needed. The higher heel height helps disperse your weight along your foot with each step.
One sticking point with the shoes is that they felt stiff out of the box and had a break-in time longer than a week, says writer Emily Hirsch, RD. Hirsch also says the pair struggled to accommodate her high arches. But once the shoes softened and started to mold to her feet, things got better, especially when spending time on her feet.
“These were comfortable for standing for long periods because of the cushioned memory foam footbed and noticeable arch support. While they felt a bit clunky when walking, the firm structure actually provided good stability when standing, which helped reduce foot fatigue,” she says.
Given that they’re constructed well, Hirsch expects them to hold up over time. Made with machine-washable fabrics, these also clean up nicely.
Best for Ankle Support
Reebok Nano Court Training Shoes
Pros
- Provide extra support around the ankles for stability
- Top-notch traction
- Supportive
- Comfortable with long wear
- Lightweight
Cons
- Can be hard to get on due to extra ankle padding
- May fit small; consider ordering up a half size
Key Specs
- Removable insole: No
- Cushioning level: Moderate
- Width options: Medium
- Sizes: Women’s 5-12 (half sizes available)
If you’re looking for ankle stability, a shoe designed for court activity (like tennis or pickleball) may be an option. These Reebok Nano Court Training Shoes are designed with extra support around the ankles to improve stability. And the herringbone-style rubber tread on the bottoms helps prevent slipping.
“I loved the amount of support, comfort, and stability these shoes provide. I felt balanced overall,” says writer Jacquelyn Smith. While the ankles are secure, they can be too secure sometimes, she says. She found it tough to wiggle her foot in.
It was worth it once the shoes were on, though. “I intend on wearing them much more than my other pair of tennis shoes,” says Smith. She says these Reeboks stand out in terms of support, comfort, and lightweight feel.
That translated into real benefits when moving, says Smith, who has heel spurs, bunions, and plantar fasciitis. “I could keep up with our new puppy far more easily than in my other sneakers and play ball with my kids without worrying about rolling an ankle. I was amazingly pain-free after several hours of wear, something I’m not accustomed to.”
Best Travel Shoe
Mykos Winona Lace-Up Sneakers
Pros
- Easily packable
- Lightweight
- Airy upper to keep feet cool
- Fold-down heel for easy slip on
- Good arch support
- Good for walking
Cons
- Not suitable for cold weather
- Not enough support for vigorous exercise
- Runs large
Key Specs
- Removable insole: Yes
- Cushioning level: Moderate
- Width options: Medium
- Sizes: Women’s 5–12, half sizes for 6.5–9.5
Right out of the box, this pair was comfortable and supportive to wear, says editor Katie Tuttle, who has plantar fasciitis. The footbed has a removable foam insole that sits on a shock-absorbing outsole.
The Winona is also super-portable: “The back of the shoe has a flexible, suede-like insert that folds down and makes these more packable,” says Tuttle. She points out that the way the shoe is constructed, you can easily smush it into a bag or suitcase and expect it to spring back into shape. “It’s also quite lightweight; these would be good on the plane or hustling around the airport.”
The shoes are light and airy, which is perfect for warm or temperate conditions. But Tuttle does not expect that they will hold up outside in the cold or rain, and the white pair gets easily dingy. Save these for travel days at the airport or exploring a city on a warm and sunny day.
Best Recovery Shoe/Sandal
Hoka Ora Recovery Slide 3
Pros
- Lightweight, breathable
- Plush cushioning
- No break-in time
- APMA Seal of Acceptance
- Unisex style
Cons
- Back heel “lip” may slip up and down
- Some may feel their feet sweat more in these
Key Specs
- Removable insole: No
- Cushioning level: Plush
- Width options: Medium
- Sizes: M3/W5–M14/W16, whole sizes only
These recovery sandals are outfitted with plush cushioning, neutral stability, and a curved rocker sole to help propel you forward while walking and cradle your feet after. Although they’re billed as recovery shoes, they hold up well during light activity.
“These are great shoes for walking, and I feel no pain in my bunion area at all,” says editor Alexandra Klausner, who tried out the previous version, Hoka Ora Recovery Slide 2.
The updated model features airflow vents for enhanced breathability. Despite her narrow ankles that make the back of the shoe slightly large and slip up and down, Klausner didn’t get any blisters while wearing them (an early worry for her). “The material in the back is so soft and cozy that I have no pain in the back or blistering at all.”
Many reviewers on Hoka’s site say that they prefer to wear these as “house shoes” to give their feet support when at home.
Best for Heel Pain
Abeo Mxv Shift
Pros
- Cushioned, deep heel cup
- Added cushioning to address forefront pain
- Designed for medium arch
- Wider fit allows for foot swelling in activity
Cons
- May not be suitable for high or low arches
- Needs break-in time
Key Specs
- Removable insole: Yes
- Cushioning level: High
- Width options: Medium, Wide
- Sizes: Women’s 5-11
This all comes from the orthotic insole that’s made up of three layers: one for support, another for cushioning, and the top a breathable layer to keep feet cool. Frost liked how the combination of the heel cup and arch support helped distribute her weight and step.
After a break-in period of about a week, Frost liked that she could use these shoes for walking, standing, and exercise. But she says that because they come up higher around the ankles (for stability), they weren’t great for slipping on and off.
Best Slip-Ons for Exercise
OluKai Huia
Pros
- Convenient slip-on, drop-in heel style
- Lightweight trainer
- Breathable mesh upper
- Fits high arches nicely
- Rubber sole for stability
Cons
- Low on ankle stability
- Fits slightly narrow
Key Specs
- Removable insole: No
- Cushioning level: Moderate
- Width options: Medium
- Sizes: Women’s 5–11; half sizes 6.5–9.5
OluKai says that its inspiration is to provide a sensation of bare feet walking on wet sand. One thing’s for sure: Our tester gave these high marks.
“I absolutely love these shoes,” says editor Ashley Ziegler. “I literally sighed because they felt so good on my arches.” She also liked the cushion and mesh upper for breathability.
This shoe also focuses on the small details that make a big impact, says Ziegler. For example, the sewn-in tongue doesn’t move around during activity, something that often causes discomfort. A stretchy, drop-in heel and elastic laces mean that these shoes slip onto your feet quickly.
All of those qualities make them especially good for supporting your feet while walking, running, taking a fitness class, and more. Because they have a drop-in heel, these shoes can transform from an athletic shoe to more of a casual slip-on shoe for everyday wear.
Despite how well they fit, Ziegler says that when they were new, they did rub the back of her feet a bit. She expects that this will resolve once they become more broken-in.
Best Fashion Sneaker With Arch Support
Aetrex Morgan Arch Support Sneakers
Pros
- Stylish, high-quality materials
- Provide arch support
- Removable insole
- No break-in period
- Run true to size
Cons
- May be too narrow if feet run wide
- Not as much cushioning as others on our list
Key Specs
- Removable insole: Yes
- Cushioning level: Mild to moderate
- Width options: Medium
- Sizes: Women’s 6–12, half sizes available
Sometimes you need a shoe that looks great with jeans but also offers support and cushioning. These leather sneakers have that perfect mix of fashion and comfort, says editor Olivia Campbell.
These aren’t designed for fitness, so they’re not for the gym. But they do excel during lighter activities like daily walking, standing, or strolling around a museum. Arch support in the insole may help relieve arch and heel pain.
If you’re not familiar with the company, Aetrex designs shoes that are largely APMA-approved. A huge plus is the ability to customize your shoes, if needed. If you want more cushioning, you can easily remove the insole and add your own orthotic. The company also sells orthotics, including those with memory foam, so you can feel confident that they’ll fit inside your shoe.
Best Stability Shoe for Exercise
Brooks Adrenaline GTS 25
Pros
- Sturdy, stable, and structured
- Well-cushioned
- No break-in time needed
- Runs true to size
Cons
- Style may appear clunky
- Not all sizes available in different widths
Key Specs
- Removable insole: Yes
- Cushioning level: Plush
- Width options: Narrow, Medium, Wide, Extra Wide
- Sizes: Women’s 5–13, Men’s 7–15, half sizes available
For a reliable stability shoe that supports your foot during exercise and helps prevent excess pronation, this pair from Brooks fits the bill.
Writer Brittany Vargas, who tried the earlier GTS 23 model, says her immediate impression was that they were comfy with no break-in time needed. “I wore them for a run right away and had no discomfort, rubbing, or pain,” she says. The typical knee twinge she feels while running wasn’t there when wearing these. The updated GTS 25 adds even more cushion for the heel and forefront.
These are excellent walking shoes, providing ample cushion and bounce for walking on concrete or softer surfaces like a trail. “My joints feel supported in them,” says Vargas. Still, the shoes can appear a bit clunky, which was her only complaint.
Why Trust Everyday Health
Jessica Migala
Author
Jessica Migala is a freelance writer with over 15 years of experience, specializing in health, nutrition, fitness, and beauty. She has written extensively about vision care, diabetes, dermatology, gastrointestinal health, cardiovascular health, cancer, pregnancy, and gynecology. She was previously an assistant editor at Prevention where she wrote monthly science-based beauty news items and feature stories.
She has contributed to more than 40 print and digital publications, including Cosmopolitan, O:The Oprah Magazine, Real Simple, Woman’s Day, Women’s Health, Fitness, Family Circle, Health, Prevention, Self, VICE, and more. Migala lives in the Chicago suburbs with her husband, two young boys, rescue beagle, and 15 fish. When not reporting, she likes running, bike rides, and a glass of wine (in moderation, of course).
Alissa Kuizinas, DPM
Medical Reviewer
Dr. Kuizinas is a functional podiatrist specializing in sports medicine, chronic injuries, and foot and ankle dysfunction. She practices podiatry at Wellness in Motion Boston, located in Concord and Brookline, Massachusetts. She also sees clients virtually in her private practice.
In addition to functional interventions for pain and injury, Kuizinas works with the mind-body connection to treat patients holistically and encourage whole-body wellness rather than just symptom relief.
Kuizinas received a bachelor of arts from Boson University and went on to attend Temple University School of Podiatric Medicine, where she received her doctor of podiatric medicine. She completed a three-year surgical residency in forefoot and rearfoot reconstructive surgery at Hoboken University Medical Center in New Jersey.
Kuizinas has previously worked in trauma and reconstructive surgery, as well as wound care and limb salvage, and has done advanced training in hyperbaric medicine.
Orlando de Guzman
Fact-Checker
Orlando de Guzman is a writer and editor with expertise in health and environmental news. He has a background in investigative and science journalism and has worked on documentary films about war and trauma, health, sanitation, and the changing climate around the world. His interest in health and medicine started after an early career as a medical and legal translator.
De Guzman is a longtime health and fitness enthusiast who is interested in nutrition, diet, and mental health. He participates in endurance sports and cross-trains in several traditions of martial arts from Southeast Asia. De Guzman is interested in how the progressively complex movements of martial arts training can improve cognition and mental well-being, especially for those with PTSD and for those approaching middle age and beyond.
De Guzman has a dual B.A. in communications and international studies from the University of Washington in Seattle. He is committed to factual storytelling and evidence-based reporting on critical choices that affect our planet.
Lili Ladaga
Editor
Emily Hirsch, MS, RD, LDN
Tester
Emily Hirsch is a registered dietitian, expert health writer, and speaker with over 18 years of experience in the health and wellness space. She is the founder and owner of South Charlotte Nutrition, a private practice dedicated to various nutrition services including counseling, medical nutrition therapy, and corporate wellness.
Beyond her clinical practice, Emily is a professional writer covering a wide variety of health and wellness topics. She remains dedicated to bringing lackluster research to life by translating main research points into language that resonates with diverse audiences. Emily has been a trusted contributor for renowned companies like Nature Made, Garden of Life, and That Clean Life, among others.
Emily's goal is to continue to consistently deliver sound nutrition guidance to help people improve the quality of their lives.
When not working, Emily can be found outdoors picnicking and hiking while taking in all of the vitamin O (oxygen) she can get with her husband and two children.
Jacquelyn Smith
Tester
Jacquelyn Smith is a writer who covers parenting, wellness, pregnancy, and general health. She is also a former public school elementary educator, a professional artist, and the current director of a homeschool learning pod, with more than 19 years of experience working with children and families. Her work reflects a strong understanding of how health, behavior, and daily routines affect our everyday lives.
She holds a bachelor’s degree in elementary education and early childhood education, which she obtained from the University of Phoenix, with formal training in child development and family-centered practices. Her background in education helps her turn health and parenting advice into easy-to-use guidance for families. Outside of work, she enjoys being in nature, lounging by a backyard fire in hammocks with her daughters, and drawing charcoal pet portraits.
Katie Tuttle
Tester
Katie Tuttle is an editor and writer specializing in food, nutrition, and product testing. Her work has appeared in EatingWell, Food & Wine, The Spruce Eats, and Real Simple. She has written about meal kits, kitchen tools, fitness, and wellness, and has tested and reviewed a wide range of products, with a particular focus on meal delivery services and their impact on nutrition and convenience.
Beyond food, Katie has covered fitness and wellness topics, drawing from her own experience as a powerlifter and an occasional runner. She’s always interested in how products and services can make healthy living more accessible and practical.
When she’s not researching or writing, Katie is usually surrounded by houseplants or spending time with a foster dog. She firmly believes there’s no such thing as too many books or too much coffee.
Alexandra Klausner
Tester
Alexandra Klausner is a freelance health writer and editor with over 10 years of journalism experience. Prior to going freelance, she worked as a reporter and editor at the New York Post for eight years covering everything from health and wellness to features and breaking news. Before that, she covered multiple beats at the Daily Mail Online for three years.
Alexandra graduated from Skidmore College in Saratoga Springs with a bachelor's degree in theater. As a New York City native, she is also a grant-winning playwright, actor, freestyle singer, catchy-hook writer, and podcaster. She loves yoga, 5 Rhythms dance meditation, and running.
Alexandra Frost
Tester
Alexandra Frost is a Cincinnati-based journalist and the founder of an editorial marketing agency that offers brands strategy and content collaboration across all of their platforms and projects.
Her work has appeared in The Atlantic, The Washington Post, HuffPost, Popular Science, and Glamour, and she's worked with brands from Sam's Club to Johnson & Johnson. She specializes in medical/health, wellness, parenting, relationships, education, trends, business, and lifestyle journalistic writing.
Alexandra earned her bachelor's degree in mass communications/journalism and a master's degree in teaching.
When not writing, she enjoys spending time with her five kids, lovingly referred to as “#4frostyboys” and “#1frostysis” on social media. As a busy mom, she's a firm believer in work-life balance.
Ashley Ziegler
Tester
Ashley Ziegler is a full-time writer with extensive experience covering women’s health, babies' and kids' health, mental health, and wellness. Her work has appeared on websites including The Bump, Health, Pregnancy & Newborn, People, Parents, Romper, Scary Mommy, and more.
Before transitioning into her full-time writing career, Ashley worked in the departments of pediatric cardiology and general medicine at Duke University Medical Center, and later at the North Carolina Medical Board. During undergrad, she majored in communications at Purdue University and then earned her master’s degree with a concentration in healthcare management from Indiana Wesleyan University.
Ashley lives with her husband and two young daughters in North Carolina. In her free time, she enjoys reading, walking, taking barre classes, and catching up on her favorite podcasts.
Olivia Campbell
Tester
Olivia Campbell is the New York Times bestselling author of Women in White Coats: How the First Women Doctors Changed the World of Medicine and Sisters in Science: How Four Women Physicists Escaped Nazi Germany and Made Scientific History. She is a freelance editor at Dotdash Meredith and a freelance journalist. Her work has appeared in The Atlantic, National Geographic, New York Magazine, Health, Parents, History, and The Guardian, among other outlets.
Campbell received a journalism degree from Virginia Commonwealth University and a master's in science writing from Johns Hopkins University, where she now acts as a thesis advisor. She is a member of the National Association of Science Writers.
Campbell lives outside Philadelphia with her husband, three children, and two cats.
Brittany Vargas
Tester
Brittany Elyse Vargas has been a professional writer and journalist for over a decade and has been exploring topics around mental health, mind-body medicine, health, wellness, and psycho-spiritual development for the past 20 years.
As a trauma-informed health journalist, she is a regular contributor to Everyday Health, Medscape and Verywell Mind. Her byline has also appeared in Yahoo Life, Shape, Integrative Practitioner, Business Insider, and BBC Travel, among others.
Brittany is also a certified Reiki Master who has been practicing since 2010.
She received her bachelor's degree from the University of California at Santa Barbara and is a proud Californian. In her spare time, she loves practicing yoga, dancing, hiking, and traveling.