23 Shoes For Anyone Who Likes Walking But Hates Foot Pain

Jun 04, 2023

We hope you love our recommendations! Some may have been sent as samples, but all were independently selected by our editors. Just FYI, BuzzFeed collects a share of sales and/or other compensation from the links on this page.

Cushy sneaks, strappy pumps, hiking boots, and other shoes that manage to be stylish *and* super comfy.

BuzzFeed Staff

Strappy pumps for anyone looking for a little extra height and style without sacrificing comfort. They're designed with extra support, flexibility, and cushioning so that every step is a breeze!

Slip-on mules that are surprisingly comfy and easy to walk in for those days when you need something a little dressier than a sneaker.

Some Skechers walking shoes designed to revolutionize your walking experience with responsive cushioning, a rebound insole, and a mesh fabric upper to help keep your feet comfy no matter how many steps you take.

Unless otherwise specified, all sizes in this post are listed in women's.

Former BuzzFeed editor Marquaysa Battle is *all* about these sneakers:

"I own a black pair of these and they're seriously one of the comfiest friggin' sneakers I've ever worn (the other is a pair of New Balance) in my 29 years of life. The 'Cloudfoam' insole really does make it feel like your feet are walking on clouds. I thought that feeling might go away after several months of wear, but the sneakers remain fluffy and relaxing. The sneakers were so comfortable that I started wearing them to the gym, to work, and even matching them with cute dresses for going-out looks. You'll probably want to order two pairs of these babies so you don't wear out a single pair after you fall in love. I bought my mom a pair as well."

Get them from Amazon for $39.20+ (available in sizes 5–11 and in 25 colors/styles — not every color is available in every size).

Psst: this item is included in Prime Wardrobe so you can give it a trial run if you're a member!

Promising review: "I have feet that are always in pain: bunions, hammer toe, and arthritis from prior breaks. These shoes are so comfortable, I bought them in three colors. When I am walking around in these shoes, the pain is hardly noticeable. I highly recommend them." —Jeanine

Get them from Amazon for $34.16+ (available in sizes 5–13 in regular and wide widths and 23 colors — not every color is available in every size).

Promising review: "These shoes are some of the most comfortable heels I have ever purchased. I have heels that I paid over $100 for, but they aren't near as comfortable as these LifeStrides. I've worn these shoes several times to events or out to dinner, but today I wore them to work for eight hours. I walk quite a bit at work, but these heels did not hurt my feet. I usually get pain in the balls of my feet, but these have just the right amount of cushion." —Joni R. Harris

Get them from Amazon for $25.18+ (available in sizes 5–11, in regular and wide widths, and 11 colors — not every color is available in every size).

Promising review: "To sum it up: get them! I love them.. people love them. I’m stopped every time I’m out from people asking me where did I get these... they are awesome-looking shoes. I wear them to the gym. I cycle! They're comfortable, have great support, and are lightweight! I originally purchased a half size too big (because I’m lazy and don’t like breaking in shoes 😬), HOWEVER, with these, I sent them back and purchased my actual size, as they run a little big. So, I would suggest just getting your size! Love these sneakers — I’m getting all my favorite colors. Oh, even my boyfriend — who is the hardest critic when it comes to my choice in fashion 🙄 — loved these sneakers!! 👍🏾" —Hannah

Get them from Amazon for $22.99+ (available in sizes 5.5–10.5 and 22 colors — not every color is available in every size).

Promising review: "I needed a waterproof boot that would also be good for lots of walking. I did a lot of walking in Ireland and Scotland, mostly in rainy weather, and these boots were true to their description. My feet were dry and comfortable." —Louise M.

Get them from Amazon for $69.99+ (available in sizes 5–12 in regular and wide widths, and 12 colors — not every color is available in every size).

Promising review: "These are great shoes for work or going out. They look more expensive than they are and are very comfortable. I work in a city, so I do quite a bit of walking every day, and they’ve been fine, no blisters." —Megan D

Get them from Amazon for $26.39+ (available in sizes 5-12 and four colors — not every color is available in every size).

Promising review: "My second pair of this style. I wore my last pair in several countries, over many years, with lots of walking/light-mod hiking, and they held up great. But it was definitely time to replace them. They fit me perfectly, and when worn with no-show socks, I can walk for miles in them. Cute with shorts, jeans, or casual skirts/dresses." —cheddo

Get them from Amazon for $39.99+ (available in sizes 5–12 in regular and wide widths and five colors — not every color is available in every size).

Promising review: "If you'd like to add three inches to your height without the dangers of toppling over, you've got to try these platform sandals! They're absurdly comfortable, soft, lightweight, and breathable. I've walked miles in these. The open strap design visually elongates the length of the leg. Also, there are lots of colors to choose from! I've got three and counting." —CC Mac

Get them from Amazon for $85.45+ (available in sizes 5–11 in regular and wide widths and two colors — not every color is available in every size).

Promising review: "I cannot emphasize how much I love these shoes. Would I wear these shoes to work out? No. But I can walk for miles in these things — it is like walking on air. They are so light and so comfortable, and they look interesting, and people comment on them often. I have worn them very frequently since I got them three months ago, and there is almost no wear to be seen. So, they are pretty hardy for the price they're at. Considering I've owned expensive Nikes, I'd go with these over my previous shoes. They are so similar in make and feel to the Nikes I've owned, but a much better price — and as a minimalist, I enjoy that there is no visible branding!" —Samantha M.

Get them from Amazon for $18.89+ (available in sizes 5–11 and in 29 colors — not every color is available in every size).

Promising review: "First let me say that I DO NOT wear heels!!! I needed a nice shoe for my Mom's memorial service. These were cute, so I figured I would give them a try. They are great!! I ordered it in a wide because of the narrow toe. They were really comfortable! Of course at the service, there was a lot of standing, which usually is painful in heels for me. But I have to tell you that I didn't have any pain! If you're looking for a cute, comfortable low/medium heel, you won't be disappointed!" —Dawn

Get them from Amazon for $33.29+ (available in sizes 5–11 in regular and wide widths and six colors — not every color is available in every size).

Promising review: "Ok so, on day one after just over eight hours and almost 19,000 steps on concrete, my feet are just now starting to hurt. These shoes are so cute and very comfortable. They have the most support of any flat I have ever worn. I will be buying more in different colors! Great price, great shoes." —Amazon Customer

Get it from Amazon for $14.94+ (available in sizes 5–15 in regular and wide widths and in 19 colors — not every color is available in every size).

Thesus is a mission-driven, Ontario, Canada-based small biz creating outdoor footwear that's easy on the planet, the eyes, and your feet! Their materials are 90% sustainable and traceable — and they're working toward 100%. This brand is all about the details, taking years to develop each collection, traveling the globe to seek out the best materials for the health of both people and the planet.

Promising review: "Loooove them! Very neatly made, great quality, soft and comfy. Have to mention customer service — they were super helpful, responsive and flexible in regards to shipping. Personally, I found it really interesting to follow the story of the boots being made — thanks for the updates! Overall, very happy 😊." —Dalia

Get it from Thesus for $198 (available in EU sizes 36–46 and 11 colors — not every color is available in every size).

Promising review: "Amazing shoe. Very comfortable. I wore all week at Disney, and we walked a minimum of 20,000 steps or 10 miles per day for seven days! They were brand new, and I didn’t even break them in! Best shoes I’ve ever purchased. I will probably be getting another pair!" —Vogler - Mezick

Get it from Amazon for $17.13+ (available in sizes 5–11 in regular and wide widths and in 21 colors and patterns — not every color is available in every size).

Promising review: "I love these sandals! Steve Madden is always a guarantee, which is why I have been a loyal customer for the past 15 years! I recently bought these sandals for my honeymoon in the Riviera Maya. Didn't even bother to break them in beforehand. I can honestly say they are very COMFORTABLE! I walked around everywhere, and, although they have no arch support, my feet didn't hurt at all. No blisters either. Highly recommend! Will continue to be a loyal customer of Steve Madden." —Vania

Get them from Amazon for $44.95+ (available in sizes 5–11 and 14 colors — not every color is available in every size).

Promising review: "I never (NEVER) buy shoes online because I am extremely finicky about fit and comfort. The few times I have done it, I have been disappointed and either returned the shoes, or taken my lumps by keeping a pair I only wear once. After reading the reviews, I gave these a try and THEY ARE AWESOME. They were comfortable and wearable immediately with socks, and with just a little break-in period (one day), they are also comfortable without socks, which is good, because they look way more hip that way.

The mesh upper is cool and breathable, the footbed is snuggly, but not wobbly, and my arches are happy. The big test for me is whether I can wear them all day and then hop out of bed the next morning without plantar fasciitis pain. I typically use Superfeet insoles in my other shoes to manage this. These shoes passed the test, which makes me very happy! Time will tell how long the insoles will hold up, but for now I am a very happy customer and I will be wearing the heck out of them this summer." —Stacey Burzumato

Get them from Amazon for $69.99+ (available in sizes 5–12 and 8 styles — not every color is available in every size).

Promising review: "I am not a big heels person — I work a professional job and attend a lot of meetings and do a lot of walking. I typically stick to flats or shorter heels when absolutely necessary. I love the way heels look, but never seem to find them comfortable enough to endure all day. I ordered these LifeStride Parigi pumps and several other heels at the same time, but these were the CLEAR winner. They are so comfortable!!! I only really intended to wear them for one occasion, but they are so comfortable and stylish that I've worn them several days already." —Erin D.

Get them from Amazon for $39.95+ (available in sizes 5–12, in narrow, regular, wide, and extra wide widths, and 13 colors — not every color is available in every size ).

Promising review: "Very comfortable shoe. I wear them at work where I do a lot of walking, and these are very comfortable for me. I can literally wear them all day." —Knowledge

Get them from Amazon for $34.99+ (available in sizes 5–12 and 13 colors — not every color is available in every size).

BANGS Shoes is a mission-driven small biz that creates ethically made, high-quality canvas sneakers for your daily adventures. Their embroidered sneaks are super cute and every purchase helps to fund loans that invest in entrepreneurs around the globe.

Promising review: "I LOVE these shoes. The embroidery is sturdy and has held up to many hikes already. I get compliments all the time on them!!" —alisha

Get it from BANGS Shoes for $84 (available in women's sizes 5–11.5 and men's sizes 3.5-10).

Macarena Collection is a Buena Park, California-based small business with all sorts of leather sandals, embroidered Huipil shirts, and home goods.

Promising review: "I LOVE these shoes! I was greeted by the smell of sweet leather. I immediately put them on, and couldn’t believe how cute they were in person! I’m normally a size 6.5 and have a wider foot across the toes. I ordered the size 6 and they fit perfectly. I wore them all day and had no issues, no blisters, and no 'new shoe' uncomfortableness. I would highly recommend!" —Memphis Market Co. David and Grace

Get them from Macarena Collection on Etsy for $48.72 (originally $50.90; available in sizes 5–10).

Promising review: "I normally don't like wearing tennis shoes all day because my feet tend to sweat in them, then swell when I take them off. These are the best brand of tennis shoes I have ever owned. They feel wonderful on my arthritic feet, and my feet breathe in them all day, so they never sweat, and don't swell up when I take them off. I bought a second pair in white. Well worth the money. All my other tennis shoes are going to Goodwill." —SBoo

Get them from Amazon for $70+ (available in sizes 5–12 and 15 styles — not every color is available in every size).

Ma’am Shoes is a woman-owned small biz creating staple shoes that are built to last and, most importantly, are comfortable enough to see you through your busy day. They use environmentally responsible packaging and work exclusively with local LA-based manufacturers to reduce carbon emissions.

Here's what BuzzFeed editor Danielle Healy has to say about these:

"Sometimes it feels like my feet are made of paper with how easily they blister. So when a brand markets itself as having a focus on stylish comfort, I am all ears. Fresh out of the box, I wore these red beauties out to dinner (a 20-minute walk each way) and my feet were no worse for wear. So I decided to put them through the ultimate test — a wedding. Even after hours of dancing, my feet felt great and I got loads of compliments. A statement shoe that really does look and feel great? *Big swoon.*"

Get them from Ma’am Shoes for $150 (originally $300; available in sizes 4.5–11 and in five colors — not every color is available in every size).

Promising review: "These are so comfortable, so stylish and so quiet for clog-type shoes! I have tried other more expensive clog-type nursing shoes, and they do not come close to the comfort of Dansko shoes! I love them!!!" —Kate

Get them from Amazon for $85+ (available in sizes 5.5–12 and two colors — not every color is available in every size).

Domo Ink is Black woman-owned small business based in Jurupa Valley, California!

Promising review: "These shoes are well-made and comfortable. The colors are just like the picture. These are perfect warm-weather shoes!" —Kathryn Lindrose

Get them from Domo Ink for $85 (available in sizes 5–12).

Some reviews have been edited for length and/or clarity.