We’ve Tested Over 50 Podiatrist-Recommended Shoes — These Are the 15 We Recommend if Your Job Has You Standing All Day

The Asics Gel-Nimbus 28 boasts many features we look for in a supportive, comfortable walking shoe. The breathable nylon upper promotes ventilation to prevent overheating or excessive sweating on hot days. The gel cushioning system is designed to minimize foot fatigue and reduce impact on your joints while walking. You’ll also find that the outsole offers traction that is suitable for most terrains.

Tester Natasha Caleel wore these shoes on various surfaces and found them incredibly comfortable, especially on harder surfaces like pavement and concrete. The cushioning system truly made a difference when running — she describes them as bouncy and responsive. She also loves the stretchy tongue and laces, which make it easy to slide the shoes on while tied, if desired. “[They are] incredibly comfortable, very thick in the soles, but felt like they hugged my feet well and were not heavy,” says Caleel.

These shoes are best for people with a neutral arch or mild underpronation, which means your foot tends to roll slightly outward when you run. Consider a different option if you have moderate to severe overpronation (when your foot rolls too far inward) or need extra arch support. They are not waterproof and can be difficult to clean since the upper has a mesh-like texture that traps dirt. But if you want a lightweight, breathable shoe that will keep your feet from aching at the end of a long day on your feet, then these Asics are a great choice.

The New Balance Fresh Foam X 1440v1 is a great budget-friendly option if you’re looking for a comfortable and supportive shoe for under $100. This shoe features New Balance’s signature Fresh Foam X technology, which helps absorb shock and prevent discomfort from prolonged wear.

They have an 8-millimeter (mm) heel-to-toe drop, which means the heel is slightly higher than the toe. This helps support a more natural stride and can alleviate pressure on the balls of your feet. Additionally, the Fresh Foam X 1440v1 has a breathable mesh upper to keep your feet from holding moisture that could potentially lead to blisters or other discomfort.

We appreciate how lightweight and flexible these shoes are. The pair weighs under 8 ounces, so you won’t feel like you’re carrying a ton of bricks on your feet. Plus, the flexible design allows for a full range of motion during activities like jogging or yoga. Potential drawbacks include durability issues with the mesh upper and a lack of extra arch support. They come in fewer colorways than other New Balance models, but there are still several neutral options in the lineup.

If you need something with a bit more durability and support, the Hoka Bondi SR is worth considering. We like these walking shoes because the leather upper resists wear better than nylon or mesh uppers. Leather is also easier to clean because it isn’t as porous as other materials. “The materials definitely seem high quality,” says tester Caroline Lubinsky, adding that the rubber sole is super heavy-duty.

The rocker design of the Bondi SR helps with smooth transitions and can be great if you’re on your feet all day. Lubinsky says that the shoes provide a respectable amount of cushioning and support. They are particularly well-suited for demanding workdays that require a lot of standing or walking, such as in healthcare or service industry jobs.

However, it’s worth noting that the bulkier design may not be as aesthetically appealing for some. Another option will suit you better if you plan to wear them during moderate to high-intensity workouts because they are heavy and less breathable than athletic shoes.

When you experience pain in the back of the foot and heel, it’s most commonly related to plantar fasciitis and tendonitis, Schrieber says. These are conditions caused by overuse, which leads to inflammation of the tissue (plantar fascia) that runs along the bottom of your foot.

According to Evans Sirois, DO, internal medicine physician at Endeavor Health and cofounder of N-2 Water, wearing shoes with proper arch support can significantly reduce pressure on the plantar fascia. This tissue connects your heel to the front of your foot and supports your arch during movement.

Aside from their obvious comfort and support, one of my favorite features is the quick-toggle laces. I adjusted them on day one and didn’t have to touch them again for the rest of the week. While they run slightly large, I appreciate that they come in half sizes and wide-width options. However, the wide toe box and bulkier design may not be the best fit if you have narrow feet.

If you have high arches, you may benefit from a shoe that has extra cushioning and flexibility in the midsole, says Troy Hurst, PT, DPT, licensed physical therapist and medical writer at Flow Feet. “Those with high arches ... tend to underpronate, meaning their feet may not absorb shock as effectively,” he explains. “In this case, a shoe with additional cushioning and flexibility in the midsole is typically more appropriate to help distribute pressure evenly.”

Tester Tori Martinet, RD, found that the Ghost 16s cater to an active lifestyle. They offer breathability for all-day wear, along with the support and cushioning needed for running or walking. “I wore these to one gym class and for two longer walks,” Martinet says. “I felt comfortable on unstable terrain or doing complex movements, without fear of slipping in them.”

The new Brooks Ghost 17s contain a special nitrogen-infused foam cushioning called DNA Loft v3, which provides a soft and responsive feel without compromising durability. In the 17 version, extra cushioning has been added to the heel and forefoot for greater comfort. The shoe’s midsole is segmented into zones with flex grooves that support smooth heel-to-toe transitions. It also helps distribute pressure and impact more evenly. The new version also features a more structured upper design and air mesh to increase breathability.

They do run a bit narrow, but with four width options, you’ll likely find the right fit. However, where the medium-width option has more than a dozen colorways, the other widths are limited to just a few options. We also noticed that they take about a week to break in, but they’re good to go after that.

When I tested the Cloudstratus 3, they felt extremely supportive, without sacrificing comfort. They are truly cloudlike in the way they adapt to the shape of your foot to provide stability. I wore them during long periods of standing, as well as for regular physical activity like walking and jogging, and they held up well in both scenarios.

These shoes have a mild rocker shape to minimize pressure on your feet and toes. The curved shape also promotes a more natural walking or running gait. I also appreciate the breathable mesh upper and the quality of materials, as my feet tend to sweat throughout the day. You can tell they’re well crafted from the moment you put them on. The downfalls? They are somewhat pricey and don’t come in wide or narrow options.

If you have wide feet, Dr. Sirois recommends looking for a shoe that feels snug around the widest part of your foot, the ball, without feeling too restrictive or tight. “You should not feel the shoe pinching your toes,” he says. The Hoka Bondi 9 earned this spot on our list because of its roomy toe box and wide and extra-wide options.

When tester Mary Sauer tried the Bondi 9, she said that they were surprisingly bouncy for such a large shoe. While it’s a bit clunkier than some, there’s a good reason for it. The outsole features a layer of rubberized foam that allows it to compress and bounce back with each stride. This not only provides a cushioned landing but also gives the shoe added energy return, making it less taxing on your legs when standing and moving around on your feet all day. “I really like the cushion. There is a bit of a cloudlike feel to the step,” says Sauer.

Sauer also notes that these shoes give you a little extra height — about an inch — but you’ll adapt quickly. “Even though the intense sole was a weird adjustment, I ultimately think it provides a lot of shock protection.” It only took two days to break them in during testing. While Hokas are notoriously bulkier and heavier than your average running shoe, the Bondi 9 is even wider than its predecessors and offers more room in the toe box. For these reasons, you should pass on this model if you have narrow feet.

Hurst says that the right cushioning can make all the difference in reducing lower back fatigue: “When the midsole is overly soft, the intrinsic foot musculature (the little stabilizer muscles in your feet) and other stabilizing muscles of the legs and core may have to work harder to maintain balance, which can lead to fatigue in the legs and lower back over the course of several hours.”

Our top choice for lower back pain and standing all day is the Brooks Ghost Max 3. I tested the older Brooks Ghost Max 2. The shoe has ample cushioning in the heel to absorb shock and reduce the impact on your spine, but it’s not overly soft. It still offers appropriate stabilization and support. Overall fit is also important, as shoes that are too narrow or loose can cause discomfort and contribute to postural imbalances and pain. These shoes are available in three widths to accommodate different foot shapes, and they feature a 6 mm offset from heel to toe for maintaining a neutral foot position. I ordered the standard (medium) width, and while they run a bit narrow, my foot felt extremely stable during exercise.

In my tests for comfort and overall feel, the Ghost Max 2s passed with flying colors. After an initial weeklong break-in period, the shoes felt snug and secure without being too tight. They’re comfy, supportive, and nicely cushioned. I appreciate the low-profile design and lightweight feel. While the standard-width model comes in more than a dozen colors, the wide-width version is available in only two. They also feel less roomy compared with some others.

The Brooks Ghost Max 3 is very similar to the older version, but it includes an engineered jacquard mesh for increased breathability, a roomier fit in the heel and forefoot (which addresses the narrow fit I found during testing), and slight changes to the midsole to ensure smoother movement.

Your footwear could be the source of your heel pain, and if that’s the case, you want to get a shoe that will help prevent it. The cushy heel in the On Cloudflyer 4 impressed tester Julie Cunningham, MPH, RDN, and we think the updated Cloudflyer 5 is an excellent option for those dealing with heel pain. The Cloudflyer 5 is lighter and more responsive than the Cloudflyer 4, which helps it absorb more impact than the version we tested. It also features a reengineered ankle collar, molded heel counter, and dual-density sockliner for added comfort and cushioning.

The upper is made with a blend of recycled polyester mesh to promote airflow. The heel area features several design elements catering to additional support and cushioning. An external heel counter locks your foot in place, while the molded sockliner and padded tongue provide an extra touch of comfort. The 9 mm heel-to-toe drop can further alleviate pressure on the Achilles tendon and calf muscles. However, your arch type will determine whether this steep a drop suits you.

“A higher heel drop with less cushioning is best for someone with a high arch type foot,” says Samantha Landau, DPM, MPH, faculty member at New York College of Podiatric Medicine at New York Medical College. “A person with a low arch can tolerate a lower heel drop better, as this would match their foot.”

The flexibility of a shoe is also important to consider, as it impacts how your foot moves and absorbs shock. Mitzi Williams, DPM, pediatric foot and ankle specialist and surgeon at Paley Orthopedic & Spine Institute in Florida, notes that a more flexible shoe tends to lack shock absorption, which can increase pressure on the heels and ball of the foot.

Thankfully, the Cloudflyer 5 offers a balanced combination of comfort, flexibility, and durability. “The shoes seemed well-made and high-quality,” Cunningham says. Just note that the color options are limited, and there are lighter and more breathable options out there if you want to prioritize those qualities.

Concrete floors are hard on your feet and joints, so if you spend a lot of time walking on these surfaces, it’s vital to have shoes with the right features and support. The Addiction Walker 2s are intended for people who spend a lot of time on their feet.

Because the outer part of the shoe consists of durable leather and rubber, the shoe is water resistant, slip resistant, and easy to clean — all features that benefit those who work in restaurants, healthcare, and other industries where walking is the norm.

Tester Raki Swanson tried out the Addiction Walker 2s. She found them quite comfortable and supportive, after an initial break-in period. The arch support is well designed and may help reduce foot and lower back discomfort. Like other Brooks shoes, they run slightly narrow, Swanson says, but they do offer four width options: narrow, standard, wide, and extra-wide.

This version features a supportive and stabilizing diagonal roll bar and extra cushioning in the midsole for added stability. Keep in mind that they’re heavier, stiffer, and not as breathable as many nonleather options. “The shoes look much better and more appealing once I received them, versus what they were on the website,” she says. “The leather is high quality and seems easy to clean.” She also notes that they are extremely firm, which makes them an excellent choice for those who need extra support and durability.

If you’re looking for a shoe that combines comfort with a stylish, athleisure look, the Rykä Devotion X is a great choice. The responsive cushioning provides excellent shock absorption and support, and the additional padding in the heel and forefoot make this a great shoe for fitness, walking, standing all day, or everyday use.

Health and fitness writer Brittany Vargas tried the Devotion X for several months, so she had plenty of time to get a feel for the shoes. She notes that they were great for walking on flat trails and concrete and for running errands, and she adds that they were “some of the most comfy kicks I’ve ever worn.”

In addition to having shock-absorbing cushioning, there’s no break-in period needed with these shoes, so you won’t have to worry about them not feeling comfortable right out of the box. They’re also true to size and durable, with Vargas noting that she wore them regularly for months without issue.

The best part? Despite being a “functional” shoe, says Vargas, “they’ll protect your feet and body from the impact of the ground, while also being stylish enough to pull off an athleisure look when going out for brunch.” While some people may find the cushioning a little too much for everyday wear, these shoes are a solid option for those looking for shock absorption for standing all day, without sacrificing style. At under $100, these shoes are also an affordable option.

If you struggle with balance, choosing a shoe that keeps you stable is key to avoiding injury, especially if you’re on your feet for long periods of time. According to Dr. Landau, a higher collar can provide external joint support, which can be especially helpful for people with a history of ankle sprains or chronic ankle instability. “By limiting excessive inversion and eversion, higher-rise shoes can help reduce the likelihood of recurrent sprains.”

We picked the Abeo MXV Shift as the best shoe for stability due to its higher rise and weight-balancing arch support, which helps distribute weight evenly. Editor Alexandra Frost found these shoes to be sturdy and stiff on the sides (but in a supportive way). Despite their sturdiness, they also feature deep cushioning that provides immediate relief from plantar fasciitis pain, and Frost notes that the heel cushioning was both soft and supportive — not just “smushy.” Landau notes that the higher rise around the foot and ankle makes them ideal for activities that involve uneven terrain or rapid changes in direction. Frost adds that they also held up well to regular use and were easy to clean (a definite plus if you choose the white color).

One downside of these shoes is that, because they need to be laced, you can’t just slip them on and off once they’re already tied. Additionally, some people may find that they feel stiffer than typical walking sneakers. Still, these shoes are an excellent choice for anyone with stability issues who also needs a cushioned, comfortable option for conditions such as plantar fasciitis.

If you’re a frequent traveler, you know how annoying it can be to remove your shoes every time you go through airport security. We chose the Asics Gel-Kayano 32 as the best shoe for traveling because, in addition to excellent cushioning and support for long travel days on your feet, it also features a knit heel pull tab for easy removal. Sauer, who tested these shoes, even traveled in them herself, noting that they were easy to slip back on after going through airport security.

Sauer also appreciated the height of the sole and the cushioning of these shoes, noting they offered the most cushion of any shoe she tested, which could be particularly beneficial for anyone who experiences foot pain (and is a definite bonus for long travel days when you’re walking around the airport). With reflective details, these shoes are also an excellent choice for walking or running at night.

One thing to keep in mind is that although these shoes are available in three widths for both men’s and women’s sizes, they may still feel too narrow for some people. Additionally, they do take a while to break in, which could be frustrating if you want to feel comfortable in them right away. That said, the combination of cushioning and support, paired with the knit heel pull tab, makes these shoes the perfect travel companion.

These shoes are available in a wide range of sizes and colorways for men and women, so there’s likely a style for everyone. Vargas, who tested an older version of these shoes (GT-2000 12), noted that the firm cushioning on the inner side of the shoe kept her feet in a neutral, forward-facing position and helped prevent the excessive inward rolling of the feet commonly associated with overpronation. She also appreciated that there was no break-in period needed with these shoes, so you can wear them right out of the box.

As noted, we tested an older version of these shoes, but the most recent version is the GT-2000 14. Upgrades in the newer version include upgraded midsole foam (FF Blast Max cushioning), a bouncy forefoot pad on the outsole to increase stability, an engineered woven upper with added stretch, ventilation, and durability, and an asymmetrical tongue to improve midfoot comfort.

While these shoes may feel a bit too firm for some people, the extra cushioning and stability make them a great choice for those who overpronate, have flat feet, or struggle with knee pain. Just keep in mind that because of the wide foot bed, they may not work for someone with very narrow feet.

If you’re looking for a lightweight shoe that doesn’t compromise on durability or cushioning, the Hoka Challenger 8 has you covered. Vargas, who tested the Challenger 7 (Hoka’s previous version of the Challenger), appreciated that despite its lightweight feel, it was very cushioned — a combination that can be difficult to find. “The cushioning makes them quite comfortable and protects your body from the impact of striking the ground,” she adds.

These shoes have extra-grippy soles, so you’ll be less likely to slip on rough terrain. They also feature a breathable upper, making them a great choice for hot days (although Vargas notes that these shoes are also a good option in winter, due to their thick soles — just be sure to wear warm socks!).

We tested the older version (Challenger 7). New features in the updated version include 100 percent rRPET-engineered mesh (recycled polyester, offering lightweight comfort and breathability), a 3D screen-printed toe cap (for protection against gravel and trail debris), reflective details, compression-molded EVA, and multidirectional 4 mm lugs (to further increase traction). The website also notes that this version of the Challenger has improved fit in the forefoot and instep, so the sizing issues Vargas noted in the older version may be less of an issue with this version.

Overall, the Hoka Challenger 8 is a dependable, lightweight shoe that’s ideal for a long day at an amusement park or running errands. Thanks to their excellent cushioning, they’re a good fit for a variety of foot and gait types.