A house is only as strong as its foundation. So why not pay more attention to your feet?
By investing in the most comfortable men’s shoes now, you’ll earn dividends for the rest of your life and live your future pain-free.
“The most important thing is that you want a tight, supportive but comfortable fit,” says Dr. Glenn Davison, owner of Advanced Podiatry in New York and New Jersey and a member of the American College of Foot and Ankle Surgeons.
- Rubber sole
- Lightweight foam
- Breathable knit
- Sizes: 7-15
- 100% Cotton
- Made in USA or Imported
- Synthetic sole
- Lightweight mesh upper
- 100% Rubber
- Imported
- Synthetic sole
- Originals ftw men adidas
A comfortable foot usually means a well-supported foot.
In the past, it could be difficult to find a balance between comfort and style. But not so today. Fortunately, Dr. Davison’s current athletic footwear and models designed for anatomical support are generally ideal for preventing foot conditions that can later lead to expensive surgeries such as custom orthotics.
“Simply put, there’s so much research and development going into athletic footwear these days to understand where the pressure points are and what flexibility or stiffness is needed in different sports,” says Dr. Davison out.
What to look for in the most comfortable shoes
With so many companies in the game, you can find a comfortable and stylish shoe for every occasion. But as standards quickly fade into oblivion, the lines between wearing shoes and wearing them blur. Stylish and comfortable sneakers can be just as suitable for work as for training.
The most important advice from Dr. Davison is to always choose the right shoe or sneaker for your needs. “You stress and strain and use different muscles in different activities,” he says.
Think carefully about how you move, because not all shoes are created equal. While we may all want to Marie Kondo our wardrobes, the reality is that it’s often best to specialize in the specific route you plan to travel.
Comfortable walking shoes: Our feet are our most important means of transportation, so comfortable walking shoes should be a basic accessory in your wardrobe. A good fit is easy enough to find if you pay attention to making sure there’s enough room in your toes to move your toes comfortably, says Todd Allen, Bande’s CPT instructor and instructor. He’s also a fan of breathable mesh uppers that keep sweaty feet dry and comfortable for longer.
Comfortable all-day shoes: If you’re going to be on your feet all day, it’s important to focus on finding shoes that evenly distribute your body weight, according to board certified pediatrician Michael Fishkin. Adequate heel cushioning and arch and arch support help reduce foot fatigue, he says.
Comfortable Training/Cross Training Shoes: Cross training shoes, defined as shoes optimized for training two or more types of exercise, have grown exponentially since they hit the market in the 1980s. Today, our trainings are more versatile and dynamic than ever. “The right cross-training shoes shouldn’t bite into the top of the foot, and the ankle height shouldn’t be too high or too low,” says Paul Litchfield, a former Reebok shoe designer.
Comfortable running shoes: If your training usually involves long miles on the road or track, you know the value and comfort of a purpose-built running shoe. According to running Coach Cory Smith, running shoes have become so good that you really can’t choose bad ones, as long as you follow your own preferences. Think about what’s important and what makes you feel good, whether it’s weight, stability, shock absorption or other factors.
Comfortable cross-country running shoes: cross-country running is exciting because it is full of surprises. Varying surfaces, unexpected obstacles, and sudden climbs reinforce the cardiovascular benefits, but challenge your legs to stay relaxed. Experienced trail runners remind you to choose shoes that offer good protection and shock absorption, enough grip and a sturdy construction.
Comfortable Training Shoes: When looking for a good shoe for general fitness training, focus on known foot problems that can cause aggravation. Think about whether you have high arches, wide feet, or bad knees. Physiotherapy Dillon Caswell, Ph.D., reminds us that there is no one shoe that can do it all and that there is no one-size-fits-all shoe that works for everyone. In addition to all known physical conditions, he also considers your training habits.
Comfortable hiking shoes: Choosing the most comfortable footwear for hiking really means knowing the right shoe for the type of terrain and the distance you want to travel. Decide if you are looking for a lightweight hiking boot, a hybrid or a true backpack boot and go from there.
Comfortable Dress Shoes: Dress shoes today are more versatile than ever. Fortunately for men, clever design innovations have also made them more comfortable. Look for things like textured rubber soles and cushioned insoles.
Comfortable Work Shoes: Work shoes were once synonymous with dress shoes, but with the traditional office dress code outside the window, most of us find a lot more flexibility and choice in what is “suitable for work”. Today, it seems that almost any comfortable shoe class can foot the bill for office attire. Consider what you already know about your feet and you should be able to find shoes that hit the right chord for every work situation.
Now that you’re thinking more about your feet and what might be causing you discomfort right now, here are 20 of the most comfortable men’s shoes for different needs and lifestyles.
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1. Allbirds Tree Flyer Running Shoes
The most comfortable long distance running shoes for men
About this Item
- Sizes: 8-14
- Colors: Natural Black, Blizzard, Yellow, Orange and Beige
- Low carbon footprint, made of sustainable materials
When Allbirds began developing the Tree Flyer, the goal was to position the silhouette among the best running shoes. The Tree Flyers have been produced and tested by 115 runners for over two years and are designed to withstand the journey. The all-new insole and flared outsole are built to provide cushioning and support, while the elastic toe is crafted to ease the transition of your walk.
Note: An FN reporter and former marathoner found the shoes pliable, soft and mostly flexible during a 45-minute run, but said they needed to add an insole for more arch support to stay on their own. Comfortable during long rides. .
2. Adidas Swift Run Sneakers
The most comfortable casual shoes for men
About this Item
- Originals ftw men adidas
- Adidas is the original sports brand, Driven by innovation and a bias to action. We are creators, makers, and doers
- No matter how serious you are about sports – a sporting Lifestyle does not end in the locker room
Adidas has been one of the most famous sportswear manufacturers in the world for over 70 years. Although the brand’s Swift Run sneaker is sporty, it’s made for everyday life. Perfect for wear from work to weekend and available in a variety of colors, it features a lightweight sock-like knit upper and supportive OrthoLite insole for all-round lasting comfort. Plus, it can be quickly thrown away, so you’ll be out the door in no time. I like the look and the comfort.”
3. Under Armour Charged Assert 9 Sneakers
The most comfortable men’s shoes to get up all day
About this Item
- Lightweight mesh upper with textured overlay details delivers complete breathability
- Dual-external heel counter hugs for your foot for added stability
- Leather, mid-foot saddle provides comfortable support
- Cushioned sockliner molds to your foot, eliminating slippage & providing ideal underfoot comfort
The running shoe’s technical construction ensures that the weight of your foot is evenly distributed, which Dr. Fishkin cites as essential for all-day comfort. Under Armor’s Charged Assert 9 are the best-selling men’s running shoes on Amazon, with molded foam that conforms to your foot and a lightweight mesh upper that eliminates chafing and chafing. It is a great shoe for anyone who stands on their feet all day. “I bought these shoes for work,” commented one buyer. “They are on their feet 12 hours a day and provide great support.”
4. Nike Free Run 5.0 Running Shoes
The most comfortable Nike shoes for men
About this Item
- Sizes: 7-15, including half sizes
- Colors: 7, including Pure Platinum/Off White/Photo Blue/White and Anthracite/Medium Ash/Kumquat/Blackened Blue
Nike is the world’s largest sneaker supplier, but it’s also a fashion giant. The collaboration with Supreme, Dior and Commes de Garcon has made the brand a point of reference for sneakerheads around the world. Inspired by the styles of the 80s, the Nike Free Run 5.0 is no exception. The cushioned insoles and breathable upper of the comfortable Nike shoes offer a barefoot feel that will keep you comfortable all day.
5. Vionic Stanley Slides
The most pleasant slides for men
About this Item
- Adjustable synthetic strap with soft foam underneath for added comfort
- Footbed built with two layers of Performance 4D Foam for unprecedented comfort
- Anatomical contours provide additional cushioning
Most slippers and sandals are very comfortable for the sake of comfort, but they lack the support and stability needed to keep the foot truly comfortable. Not so with Vionic’s Stanley slides. Of course, we’d expect nothing less from a company founded in 1979 by respected Podiatrist Phillip Vasyli. These comfortable slippers offer smart support with a hidden arch and a custom fit thanks to an adjustable strap that keeps the foot securely in place. A Vionic customer raves, “They really helped with my plantar fasciitis and seem to relieve symptoms immediately.”
6. Asics Gel-Kayano 28 Running Shoes
The most comfortable running shoes for men
About this Item
- Engineered mesh upper improves breathability
- OrthoLite X-55 sockliner
- AHAR Plus Outsole
- Trusstic System technology
- Redesigned external heel counter helps keep the foot stable and provide a more comfortable stride
Running shoes and ankle support match Dr. Geller doesn’t usually hold hands, but Asic’s Gel-Kayano shows that this marriage can exist. The sturdy base and supportive upper that keeps the feet firmly in place has been improved in recent years with the addition of the FF Blast midsole to the Asics Gel-Kayano 28. A long-time Asics user commented: “I’ve been wearing Asics since the early 90’s when I ran in college. I think this is arguably the best shoe from the brand. The fit and stability is similar to the previous Asics Kayano, but the cushioning is better.
7. Fila Memory Workshift Shoes
The most comfortable non-slip shoes for men
About this Item
- SOLID PERFORMANCE: Durable leather and synthetic overlays to meet your occupational needs
- ALL DAY COMFORT: Memory foam sockliner and midsole for additional comfort
- RELAXED STYLING: Perforations for breathability and a lace up front closure for relaxed fit
The Fila Memory Workshift is Amazon’s best-selling work shoe, which has garnered thousands of glowing customer reviews. Chief among their compliments is that the shoe offers excellent traction thanks to a sturdy, non-stick rubber outsole. The memory foam insole offers plenty of cushioning and the perforated leather upper provides breathability and ventilation. All this attention to detail will keep your feet nice, dry and comfortable for hours.
8. Skechers Go Walk Arch Fit Workout Walking Shoes
The most comfortable walking shoes for men
About this Item
- Engineered mesh soft knit fabric upper with hot melt overlays at the toe and heel for added support
- Classic lace up design
- Soft and lightweight fabric lining
- Removable comfort insole designed for walking comfort
- Arch Fit design with anatomically designed support
When a comfortable walking shoe is the order of the day, the Skechers Go Walk Arch Fit Walking Shoe checks all the boxes. The style offers excellent support for the arches thanks to the removable Arch Fit insole designed by Jalkaterapeut. The arch conforms to your foot and provides even weight distribution and shock absorption recommended by professionals such as Dr. Fishskin. The Hyper Arc technology also adapts to your step and is optimized for a smoother and more efficient walk. In addition, the breathable mesh upper keeps your feet dry.
9. Scarpa Zodiac Plus GTX Hiking Boots
The most comfortable men’s shoes for efficient hiking
About this Item
- Sizes: 5-14
- Colors: Shark/Orange
If traction and stability are key to getting to the top of a mountain, there are few better options that meet those criteria than Scarpa’s Zodiac plus GTX hiking boots. The style offers the exceptional grip of a technical mountaineering shoe without the weight that a typical day hiker can lug around. The Sock-Fit DV system increases the waterproofness and flexibility of the tongue and provides a tight fit in the midfoot. The Perwanger leather exterior combined with the Gore-Tex lining helps your feet stay dry.
10. Cole Haan GrandPro Rally Sneakers
About this Item
- Enjoy the breezy comfort and breathability of the Cole Haan Grandpro Rally Laser Cut Sneaker. Made of leather with a perforated front and smooth back with a lace-up design.
- Textile lining with cushioned footbed.
- Rubber outsole.
Cole Haan has been a trusted source of trendy footwear for over 90 years. Grand Pro Rally continues this tradition with a relaxed and versatile look. A moccasin-sneaker hybrid, the perforated leather exterior adds style and pairs just as well with jeans and t-shirts as with buttons and khakis. Unlike most moccasins, these soles have an Ortholite insole for maximum comfort. “Great casual trainers,” writes one reviewer. “They are very comfortable but elegant. I highly recommend them and I must also say that they are excellent value for money.”
11. On The Roger Centre Court Tennis Shoes
The most comfortable men’s tennis shoes
About this Item
- Outer material: synthetic
- Inner material: textile
- Sole: synthetic
Reviewers note that Oni’s The Roger Center Court tennis sneakers are stylish enough to be worn anywhere, yet offer the comfort and performance you need to play ace on the court. Developed in collaboration with tennis champion Roger Federer, this model uses Oni’s proprietary Speedboard technology to increase agility and allow for explosive movements. And the serious Swiss design of the CloudTec cushioning system promotes even weight distribution on the foot, recommended by pedestrians like Michael Fishkin for comfort. Try a pair in classic white for a super versatile look.
12. Rothy’s RS01 Sneakers
The most comfortable white sneakers for men
About this Item
- Women’s tennis shoes with extra cushioning and style
- COMFORTABLE UPPER: Soft leather upper is durable and flexible
- CUSHIONED RIDE: Cloudfoam midsole for step-in comfort and superior cushioning
- DURABLE GRIP: Rubber outsole for durable traction
If you’re looking for classic white shoes that offer both style and comfort, check out Rothy’s RS01 sneakers. With flexible upper, molded insole and grippy outsole for support. All Rothy models are also made with the label’s signature yarn, spun from a recycled plastic water bottle and are 100% machine washable. “They became my favorite newspaper. With or without socks, it doesn’t matter. I walked nearly eight miles with them the second time I wore them. My feet were great.”
13. Cariuma OCA Low Sneakers
Also consider the most comfortable white sneakers for men
About this Item
- Padded insole
- Rubber outsole
- Breathable lining
- Vulcanized construction
- Canvas upper
Another nice classic white sneaker option, the Cariuma OCA Low has received more than 6,800 reviews and an average five-star rating on the brand’s website. “The most comfortable sneakers I’ve ever worn,” observes one buyer. “Literally how I imagine walking on a cloud, and they go with everything!” Cariuma combines classic style and construction with a new school philosophy – using natural rubber, vegan insoles, organic cotton and recycled materials – to create a shoe that feels good and is also better for the environment.
14. Puma Axelion Sneakers
The most comfortable men’s shoes for high arches
About this Item
- Axelion Spark
- 19348101
- Puma Black High Risk Red
- Medium (D, M)
The antidote to pain caused by a high arch is good support. dr. Jackie Suetra recommends keeping the ankle in a neutral position to better absorb impact. It is precisely for this purpose that Axelion was designed by the experts of the well-known sportswear brand Puma. The curved sole helps optimize foot alignment, while the generously cushioned insole softens the impact of each step. One reviewer is enthusiastic: “Many brands have misaligned arch placement with my arches. This is my second pair of Puma Axelions and I plan to purchase this shoe over and over again.
15. L.L. Bean Wicked Good Moccasin Slippers
The most comfortable men’s slippers
About this Item
- Sizes: 7-14
- Colors: Brown, Chocolate, Black, and Graphite
Seldom do those soft slippers you use to wash yourself at home provide the kind of support your feet really need and that podiatrists recommend. But LL. The Bean’s Wicked Good moccasin is a great solution. These offer both the plush and plush comfort of genuine Australian sheepskin, combined with a molded memory foam insole and highly durable rubber outsole. This combination provides support and traction for maximum comfort. And keep customers coming back for more. “There is no better shoe in our books,” writes one. “We’ve been buying Wicked Good slippers for years.”
16. On Cloud 5 Running Shoes
Also think about the most comfortable men’s walking shoes
About this Item
- Fabric: Performance mesh
- Rubber sole
- Reflective accents, Lightweight design, Cushioned collar and perforated tongue, Removable insole, Patented CloudTec sole
- Signature speed-lacing system
While developed as On’s flagship running shoe, the On Cloud is one of our most popular running / lifestyle hybrid shoes. The molded slip-on heel offers stability and is complemented by a memory foam sockliner and excellent external cushioning for comfort and support. These features saw the sneaker being seen everywhere on the sidewalks, with reviewers collecting multiple pairs.
17. Saucony Stretch & Go Glide Slip-On Running Shoes
About this Item
- Rugged outsole for off-road traction
- Versarun cushioning for comfort
- Trail-specific mesh with supportive overlays to lock your foot in place
If you are looking for your sneakers to be versatile, the Saucony Stretch & Go Glide loafer is number one for comfort and versatility. Form2U memory foam insoles, moderately stackable VersaRun cushioning and a breathable mesh upper provide anatomical support suitable for any workout. However, these are stylish enough for the office or weekend brunch. “I had to buy another pair because I liked the first pair so much!” comments from the buyer.
18. Nike Air Zoom Pegasus 38 Running Shoes
About this Item
- Sizes: 7.5-15, including half sizes
- Colors: 8
Named after the familiar winged steed of Greek mythology, the Nike Air Zoom Pegasus 38 is a shoe workhorse beloved for performance and aesthetics. A fresh, breathable upper, slightly looser fit and generous cushioning underfoot support running or hiking, while a slim, minimal silhouette makes it perfect for both the smartest and most casual occasions on your calendar.
19. Skechers Arch Fit Banline Oxford
Also consider the most comfortable men’s shoes for high arches
Skechers’ Arch Fit Banline is arguably one of the most comfortable shoes on Amazon, thanks to hundreds of five-star reviews. And it offers some of the most consistent support for your arches. As one reviewer affirms, “I have a high arch and have always had a problem finding casual shoes that are comfortable all day long. Most of the time I have had to resort to inserts that increase the price of the shoe. Also, knowing they fit the shoe is an added bonus because you can just order them online instead of buying them in-store.”
20. Free Soldier Hiking Boots
The most comfortable men’s shoes for low-impact camping
About this Item
- Sizes: 7-13, including wide widths
- Colors: Black, Brown, and San
The Free Soldier men’s hiking boots have a combat boot-inspired look and trail-ready technology. The upper has a durable, puncture-resistant and waterproof fabric that can be used throughout the day in various activities. If the terrain you drive is particularly uneven, you should look for an option that focuses a little more on grip. But if Saturday takes you from the trail to work in the garden to enjoying a well-deserved drink at the bar, this is a comfortable walking shoe for you.
What to look for in comfortable men’s shoes for different foot types
With so many options and flexibility in what type of shoes you can wear for any occasion, perhaps the key to keeping your feet comfortable is understanding how your individual foot type and current conditions affect the shoes you should consider.
- Flat feet: Wide shoes are usually the best option for those with flat feet where the entire foot touches the ground. Pedophile Michael Fishkin reminds that flat-footed people should not look for hourglass-shaped shoes on the bottom. Your foot is cradled better and you avoid painful pinching, chafing and chafing.
- Wide feet: If you feel pressure on the sides of your feet when you wear shoes, you probably have a wide foot, says Dr. Bruce Pinker, a podiatrist and foot surgeon in New York. Fortunately, since at least 10% of the population falls outside the normal spectrum, many brands take wide feet into account and offer models in different widths. Measure your feet and ask if the shoe you are considering is available in a wide, extra wide or extra wide version.
- Ankle Support: The causes of weak ankles can be hard to pin down, but the claim is notorious. If you know you have ankle pain or weakness, look for heels. Dan Geller, a board-certified foot and ankle surgeon and advisor to Kane Footwear. But be warned: “Running shoes may not always be the best for those with weak ankles, as some can really roll you out,” she says.
Meet the Creator
Peter Tittiger is a freelance editor and content consultant. He is also an avid runner and a slave to his feet. He firmly believes in “no days off”, walks regularly at least five times a week and trains in the pool or bike. He trained and ran nearly 100 races, including the New York City Marathon, and completed the five-borough’s annual NYRR Half Marathon.
Meet the experts
Dr. Glenn Davison is the owner of Advanced Podiatry in New York and New Jersey and a member of the American College of Foot and Ankle Surgeons.
Todd Allen is a certified personal trainer and instructor at Bande.
Dr. Michael Fishkin is a certified podiatrist and currently treats patients at foot and ankle specialists in Northern Illinois.
Paul Litchfield is the product manager of GoRuck, a fitness brand focused on making rucking sports equipment. Previously, he was vice president of Reebok Advanced Concepts for nearly three decades and was chief engineer of innovation and product development for footwear and apparel at Jabil, a global manufacturing services company.
Dr. Dillon Caswell is a Doctor of Physical Therapy and Associate Professor at SUNY Upstate.
Dr. Bruce Pinker is a podiatrist and podiatrist at Progressive Foot Care in New York State.
Dr. Dan Geller is a certified foot and ankle surgeon and consultant for Kane Footwear.
Dr. Jackie Sutera is a certified podiatrist who works in New York and Northern New Jersey. She is a member of Vionic’s Innovation Lab and practices “whole body podiatry”, guiding patients to understand how podiatry problems can also be related to their overall health.
Dr. Mark Mendeszoon is a Doctor of Podiatric Medicine (DPM) and owner of the Achilles Running Shop in Pennsylvania.
