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Fun fact: American workers spend an average of 57 percent of their workday on their feet, so when you’re shopping for nine-to-five footwear, it’s key to look for style and function. Whether you prefer to wear flats or sneakers, clogs or slip-ons, we found the best shoes for walking and standing all day that you don’t want to overlook on your search.
What are the best shoes to wear if you are on your feet all day?
When shopping for the best walking shoes, you want a quality pair—which can often come at a price. This is because higher-quality walking shoes are typically made from better materials that function more optimally for support and comfort, says Caroline McCulloch, podiatrist, physiotherapist and founder of footwear brand FRANKiE4. However, she says the upfront cost for quality shoes will typically be much cheaper than money one might spend treating foot pain caused by wearing a less-than-ideal pair. Clearly, there are many benefits of walking—whether you’re walking after eating or in the morning, midday, or in the evening—so don’t let the wrong shoes sideline your step goals.
What to look for in a walking and standing shoe
When shopping for shoes to walk and stand in all day, board-certified podiatrist Patrick McEneaney, DPM asks that people consider three things.
Fit
First is fit. “You want to make sure that the shoe fits adequately. It should be wide enough in the front, but not too wide in the back,” says Dr. McEneaney. If the back of your footwear isn’t snug enough, it will cause your feet to rub and may result in blisters. Conversely, if the shoes are too narrow, it will squeeze your toes and might cause joint pain. In other words, you want a Goldilocks shoe that fits just right.
Support
Support is also important, says Dr. McEneaney, and you want a shoe with soft yet firm support. “[Squishy] shoes feel comfortable initially, but they may lead to chronic overuse problems or can actually accentuate pre-existing problems,” he says.
A stiff midsole
Lastly, Dr. McEneaney recommends selecting shoes with a stiff midsole. “When you look at the bottom of the shoe, the middle one-third should be stiff and difficult to bend. The more that it bends, the more it’s going to load pressure from the back of the foot to the front of the foot. If the shoe has some more stiffness, it’s going to load the pressure through the shoe and take some of that stress off the middle of the foot,” he says—and you don’t want any foot stress on top of work stress, that’s for sure.
Can you use running shoes for walking?
Another common question when it comes to walking shoes is whether or not running shoes do the trick. According to McCulloch, yes, running shoes can be good for walking as they come in different levels of support for different feet types. “Generally speaking, as long as you are in a running shoe suitable for you, or in the least, a running shoe that feels very comfortable for you and doesn’t ever cause symptoms, then yes, I would say running shoes are good for walking,” she says.
With all this in mind, you’re ready for The Great American Pastime—and by that I mean shoe shopping, not baseball. Below, find the best shoes for walking and standing all day.
Best shoes for walking
These breathable sneakers made from eco-friendly materials...
If you’re looking for an everyday sneaker, look no further than this pair from FitFlop. The sneakers are made from a knit fabric and feature the brand’s proprietary Anatomicush midsoles to provide just the right amount of cushioning and support. Thanks to the flexible upper, they are also easy to pull on and off. What’s more? The pair is APMA (American Podiatric Medical Association) approved, along with all of FitFlop’s footwear, making it a safe—and stylish—bet for a comfortable shoe.
Available sizes: 5-11
Colors: 4
One reviewer wrote: “I wore these everyday in Paris and they were great. Super comfortable, breathable, and my feet weren’t … sore at the end of the day. The black with white sole goes with everything: Shorts, dresses, etc., so you can wear it day or night. This was a lifesaver for Paris but I’ll wear them around town at home … It was a great purchase.” — FitFlop customer
Pros:
AMPA approved
Breathable knit upper
Con:
Some reviewer say they run large
These sneakers that are so easy to clean...
Clove shoes are made specifically with nurses in mind—and they don’t disappoint. The lightweight and comfortable sneakers come in a wide array of colors that are sure to make a statement. Plus, they are easy to clean. Just wipe them down the moment they get dirty and they will look as good as new.
Available sizes: 5-12.5
Colors: 19
One reviewer wrote: “They are very comfortable, I wore them for the first time expecting to need to change them half way through my shift, it lasted for that and another 1 ½ mile walk after work.” — Clove customer
Pros:
Amassed a 4.8-star overall rating after more than 3,000 reviews
Over 15 color options available
Con:
Some reviewers say they run small
Best shoes for walking on concrete
These shoes that are so lightweight...
This shoe has the word “Cloud” in its name, but don’t let the name fool you: This shoe is soft and supportive and uniquely made for all-day wear. They’re also the lightest sneakers from the brand and feature speed lacing, so you can quickly throw them on and go!
Available sizes: 5-11
Colors: 4
Pros:
Lightweight
Speed lacing
Con:
Pricey
Best walking shoes with arch support
This pick with an easy slip-on design...
The Skechers Arch Fit features a removable insole system that allows you to dial up the arch support as you see fit. Podiatrist certified, these sneakers were developed using 20 years worth of data in mind, so the research really is on your side for a smoother, more comfortable walk.
Available sizes: 5-13 (standard and wide width)
Colors: 8
One reviewer wrote: “These sneakers exceeded my expectations! I brought these on a trip where I did an extreme amount of walking … As someone with very high arches, I need arch support or my feet will ache and these gave me all the support that I needed with no inserts!” — Amazon customer
Pros:
Podiatrist-certified arch support
Easy pull-on style
Con:
Some reviewers say it runs large
Best walking shoes for plantar fasciitis
This pick with a comfortable, supportive fit...
This sneaker’s silhouette practically screams “support” with its thick sole and soft mesh upper. Every step rocks your forward and delivers you where you need to go next. While it’s definitely on the more cushiony side, you’ll find that the extra plushness isn’t squishy—rather, it lifts your feet and gives them a nice bounce that makes walking all day much more bearable. Featuring a super grippy Vibram outsole and debris-resistant mesh upper, you’ll be all set with comfort and protection. And bonus: The colorways are excellent.
Available sizes: 5-13 (standard, narrow, wide, and x-wide width)
Colors: 29
One reviewer wrote: “I walk or run a minimum of 4 miles a day. I’ve been struggling with plantar fasciitis for five months and these felt great the minute I put them on.” — Amazon customer
Pros:
Extended sizing
Narrow, wide, and extra-wide widths available
Con:
Some reviewers say they run narrow
This pick with top-notch heel cushioning...
Another great shoe for plantar fasciitis, this sneaker has a thick (the thickest the brand has to offer) midsole that’s ready for your next workout or your next shift. The design hugs heels and has super-bouncy cushioning. What makes this pair unique is its flared midsole at the heel which makes for a more stable ride—plus, it’s made to last a long time. It also has a slimmer fit than most, which offers higher performance. Other features include built-in arch support, an 8-millimeter heel-to-toe drop for more even pressure throughout, and a breathable material. The Atom is specifically designed to help with plantar fasciitis, heel pain, bone spurs, and fallen arches—you can’t go wrong here.
Available sizes: 5-12 (medium and wide width)
Colors: 11
One reviewer wrote: “Very comfortable for standing and walking 8-to-10-hour shifts. I have bunions and they are wide enough to feel comfortable and [are] breathable for my sweaty feet.” — Kuru customer
Pros:
Thick midsole
Designed to help with foot pain
Con:
Some reviewers they are heavy
Best shoes for standing all day
These shoes with a roomy toe box...
These shoes are a favorite for many medical professionals—and that says a lot. What makes them so beloved by those on their feet for long hours is their unique design that prioritizes and maximizes long-term comfort. The roomy toe box keeps toes from getting squished or bruised, the PU midsole gives supreme support, and the protective heel counter lets your heel go up and down while still keeping feet stable. Plus, the clog features an anti-fatigue rocker bottom that helps with forward motion, so you kind of feel like you’re being propelled as you go.
Available sizes: 35-47
Colors: 25
One reviewer wrote: “I’m a speech therapist so I’m on my feet all day. Prior to Dansko, I would wear sneakers to work all day, but not anymore … The thick sole is very comfortable and I have no foot or back pain.” — Dankso customer
Pros:
Keeps you stable on your feet
Slip-on style
Con:
Some reviewers say they are too stiff
These flats with a versatile design...
If you prefer wearing flats, this pair of Allbirds has your name on it. Although these don’t offer the most support, they’re cozy and comfortable (the design conforms to all your movements). They’re made of renewable materials, offer odor control, and come in a wide array of colors.
Available sizes: 5-11
Colors: 14
One reviewer wrote: “I love the Tree Breezers. Fit true to size and you can wear them all day without any discomfort. Your feet feel as great when you take them off as when you put them on. My go-to shoes!” — Allbirds customer
Pros:
Lightweight
Machine washable
Con:
Not ideal for those who want more arch support
Frequently asked questions
What shoes should I wear for long hours?
To answer this question, McCulloch begins with what types of shoes not to wear for long hours such as flat shoes, shoes that lack cushioning and contouring, high heels, or any shoe that doesn’t hold onto your foot well. She says to opt for a shoe that “fits well and feels like supportive cushions under your feet,” which is ideally a shoe with a sole and footbed that’s not too hard and not too soft, cradles the heel, and supports the arch. These will also help keep you balanced and feeling secure.
Can old shoes hurt your feet?
A shoe’s job, McCulloch says, is to cushion, take shock, and provide support with every step we take. Overtime due to wear and tear, the shoe’s ability to do its job reduces and, you’ll likely feel it, meaning you may feel a new pain in your feet or lower limbs. “Old shoes can be the cause, or exacerbate foot or leg pain,” she says. In this case, it’s time to invest in a new pair of walking shoes.
How long should a pair of walking shoes last?
Many of us are guilty of hanging on to our favorite (and likely beat up) pair of walking shoes for far too long, but the truth is walking shoes aren’t designed to last forever. McCulloch says a walking shoe’s longevity depends on various factors such as usage, stress put on the shoes, the materials the shoe is made out of, and the wearer’s foot mechanics. With that said, “if they don’t feel as good as they used to, it’s time for a fresh pair,” she says.
How do I know when I need new walking shoes?
If wearing an old pair of shoes doesn’t feel as good as they used to or you notice any type of pain, those are signs that you should ditch your walking shoes and buy a new pair. McCulloch says you can also look for signs visually by inspecting the sole’s compression rather than waiting for pain to manifest. To do so, sit your shoes on a flat bench and notice if the inner or outer side of the sole appears compressed to the point that it tilts inward or outward significantly. If it does, that indicates that it likely tilts your foot when worn and is no longer supporting your foot properly.
Are memory foam shoes ideal for standing all day?
The short answer: yes and no. “Memory foam by itself will give you that nice soft underfoot feeling initially,” McCulloch says. “But over time, a memory foam layer by itself won’t cushion and support your foot to the level it deserves.” The reason, she says, is because memory foam is just one component of ideal foot support.
Which insole is best for standing all day?
Ideally, McCulloch says, you want a shoe with a support system of layers made of different materials, each with specific densities and contours that cradle, angle, and protect the foot.
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