We Asked a Podiatrist for Comfy Shoe Recs, and They Gave Us Styles From New Balance, Sketchers, and More

Finding a comfortable shoe that can take you from point A to point B without making your arches ache, your heels blister, or your Plantar Fasciitis rear its ugly head can sometimes be a challenge. Between trendy sneakers, stylish boots, ballet flats, or seasonal sandals, it’s easy to become overwhelmed by the wide variety of options out there. Thankfully, we spoke with a podiatrist for expert-recommended comfy shoes that are suitable for lengthy errands trips, gym sessions, and even days in the office. 

When shopping, “look for proper arch support in shoes,” Janine Ferrigno-Taddeo, DPM, tells Real Simple. “Arch support is important for providing the necessary support to align your body from the ground up.” In addition to arch support, Dr. Ferrigno-Taddeo also recommends looking for lightweight options plus “a midsole made from EVA materials for optimal cushion and shock relief.” 

Uncertain where to find all that? Dr. Ferrigno-Taddeo shared her favorite shoe recommendations to keep your feet comfortable and ache-free throughout the day. Below, find her top sneakers, flats, and loafers from brands like New Balance, Ooofos, Dr. Scholl’s, Skechers, and more starting at $30.  

Podiatrist-Approved Comfortable Shoes at Amazon 

• New Balance 928 V3, $155
• Oofos Ooahh Recovery Sandal, $60
• Asics Gel-Nimbus 2, $110 (was $160)
• Aetrex Brianna Platform Ballet Flats, $130
• Dr. Scholl’s Time Off Sneaker, $70 (was $100)
• Clarks Juliet Palm Loafer, from $36 with coupon (was $85)
• Cushionaire Hana Slip-On Buckle Clog, from $30 (was $60)
• Skechers D’Lites Fresh Start Memory Foam Lace-Up Sneaker, $60 (was $74)
• Hey Dude Wendy Chambray Lace-Up Loafer, $41 (was $65)
• Dr. Scholl’s Webster Loafer, $45 (was $85)

New Balance 928 V3

“This shoe provides instant sturdiness and balance with its rear-foot stability technology,” Dr.Ferrigno-Taddeo explains, adding, “It’s a great walking shoe for those who overpronate or deal with similar issues pertaining to stability.” With a Rollbar stability post system, Walking Strike Path outsole technology, and Abzorb midsole, these New Balances not only help stabilize foot movement, but they also give you cushioned comfort in every step. They’re constructed with a smooth inner liner to prevent irritation from rubbing as well as an odor-resistant treatment to keep excessive odor at bay. Plus, thanks to its durable rubber outsole, it can withstand excessive wear. “These are the best shoes I’ve found for wear after a foot-ankle fusion,” one five-star shopper wrote, adding, “Wear them almost all the time.”

Oofos Ooahh Recovery Sandal

For something that you can wear around the house or casual occasions, Dr. Ferrigno-Taddeo suggests the Oofos Ooahh Recovery Sandal. “This sandal has a lightweight feel that’s easy on the feet and joints,” she shares, adding, “The patented foam material used in these shoes absorbs impact to reduce stress.” While the sandal looks like your average slide, it delivers much more in terms of comfort and support. It features OOfoam technology that absorbs nearly 40 percent more impact than other shoe options, while the patented footbed is specifically designed to provide maximum arch support and reduce energy exertion in the ankles. Not to mention, the shoes are machine washable, so they can always be refreshed to good as new. “As a runner, my feet are really beat up, and these shoes feel cushiony and supported…Once I started wearing them, I no longer wanted to go in socks or barefoot only,” one five-star reviewer wrote. 

Asics Gel-Nimbus 2

If you are someone who enjoys running, the Asics Gel-Nimbus 2 sneakers are for you. “This sneaker is lightweight but provides maximum cushioning and shock absorption, all important when looking for proper running footwear,” Dr. Ferrigno-Taddeo says. The sneakers are crafted with two different types of technology: PureGel, for bouncy, lightweight cushioning and strong shock absorption, and FF Blast Plus Eco, which provides a softer landing as you walk, jog, or run. The bottom outsoles feature a special grip pattern that gives you plenty of traction, while the engineered knit upper allows for a more snug and plush feel. “I am a senior and I have taken up walking for my health,” one five-star reviewer shared, adding, “Wearing these shoes makes a big difference in the comfort of my steps and provides good balance.” 

Aetrex Brianna Platform Ballet Flats

Ballet flats can sometimes be hit or miss in terms of comfort, but this pair from Aetrex has Dr. Ferrigno-Taddeo’s seal of approval. “This shoe features a soft upper and stretchy topline that won’t dig into your feet,” she explains, adding, “The arch support and 5 millimeters of memory foam add additional comfort and cushion for all day wear.” The flats feature a simplistic design, with Soft nubuck and pebble grain leather materials that not only look nice, but also provide durable, long-lasting wear. As far as support goes, the shoes have a lightweight rubber outsole for both ease of movement and traction, memory foam for ultimate comfort, and targeted support to help relieve aches and pains. “I find these shoes extremely comfortable and supportive without looking old-ladyish or clunky,” a final five-star shopper wrote.    

Whether you shop Dr. Ferrigno-Taddeo’s picks or opt to browse other choices, there are a variety of comfortable shoe options to explore. Keep reading for other customer-loved shoes at Amazon. 

Dr. Scholl’s Time Off Sneaker

Clarks Juliet Palm Loafer

Cushionaire Hana Slip-On Buckle Clog

Skechers D’Lites Fresh Start Memory Foam Lace-Up Sneaker

Hey Dude Wendy Chambray Lace-Up Loafer

Dr. Scholl’s Webster Loafer