The Comfiest Fashion Fitness Sneakers To Walk In All Summer Long
Stride confidently, comfortably
Whatever my schedule looks like, I want to wear the most comfortable sneakers when I’m spending the day on my feet. There’s a pair of supportive yet stylish sneakers for pretty much every occasion (aside from a black-tie wedding, maybe). Headed on a run? Grab a pair of sleek Nikes. Going to a friend’s party? Slip on some edgy McQueens.
But what exactly makes one sneaker more comfortable than the rest? I turned to an expert in the sneaker world, Erika Hammond, group fitness instructor at Equinox, to narrow down the essential criteria: cushion, support, and stability. “I love a lightweight shoe, with a cushioned sole,” Hammond says. “When designers partner with top name brands in the sportswear industry, the designers bring their luxury designs to the space and the sportswear brands bring their highly researched and developed sneakers. Perfect duo!” But don’t worry—this powerful combination isn’t exclusive to luxury-branded designs.
Using Hammond’s insight, reviews from shoppers, and sneaker trials of my own, I gathered the 15 most comfortable sneakers available now. Ahead, it’s time to find a pair of shoes you won’t want to take off.
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The Most Comfortable Sneakers of 2023
BEST COLLAB SNEAKERS
Adidas by Stella McCartney Ultraboost Light Shoes
Hammond recommends this pair by Stella McCartney for Adidas: the rare designer collab that will stand the test of time. The sleek silhouette has premium cushioning to deliver extra responsiveness.
Sizes: 5–10.5
Colours: White, yellow/pink
MOST VERSATILE SNEAKERS
Golden Goose Super-Star Sneakers
This Golden Goose pair is easily my go-to everyday sneaker. The leather has moulded to the shape of my foot as I’ve worn it, and the neutral hues with pops of colours make for playful styling.
Sizes: 5–12
Colours: White/gold
BEST LIGHTWEIGHT SNEAKERS
APL TechLoom Zipline
Lightweight and breathable, APL’s advanced running shoe doubles as a lifestyle staple. The brand’s Ziplines give both lateral and longitudinal support without sacrificing flexibility.
Sizes: 5–11
Heel drop: 8mm
Colour: Black
What reviewers are saying: “These shoes live up to the hype. They look and feel amazing, and held up to three days straight of half marathons worth of walking right out of the box, no blisters!”
BEST PLATFORM SNEAKERS
Chloé Nama Platform Sneaker
NORDSTROMSAKS FIFTH AVENUEBLOOMINGDALE'S
Chloé’s stitched sneakers have soared to fashion’s forefront recently. Coming in a variety of colours, the whimsical design is set upon a cushioned platform for elevated comfort.
Sizes: 5–15
Heel drop: 20.3mm
Colours: Cosmic blue, black, pop orange, and more
What reviewers are saying: “I spent two weeks in Europe and wore these shoes every single day. Walked miles and up stairs all day and never got foot pains. If you’re debating whether to get these shoes… get them.”
BEST RUNNING SNEAKERS
On Cloud 5
On’s sneakers can be spotted everywhere these days, on dedicated runners and casual walkers alike. The Zero Gravity foam lends itself to soft landings followed by powerful takeoffs. It’s as close to running on clouds as you can get.
Sizes: 5–11
Heel drop: 7mm
Colours: Ice, hay, nimbus, and more
BEST EVERYDAY SNEAKERS
Nike Pegasus 40 Road Running Shoes
The Pegasus is one of Nike’s most iconic styles, a fan favorite for decades. Through 40 iterations, its cultlike following keeps coming back for the shoe’s extra padding at the tongue and collar, support from the midfoot band, and durable foam—to name a few key details.
Sizes: 5–12
Heel drop: 10mm
Colours: Peach, black, multi, and more
What reviewers are saying: “My physiotherapist recommended these to me as I suffer with spinal arthritis and walk a lot. They are very comfortable to walk in and what’s more, my back doesn’t hurt during or after walking.”
BEST KNIT SNEAKERS
Nobull Knit Runner
These sneakers will feel like they’re custom-made for your feet, thanks to their stretch knit and removable molded anatomical sockliner. Reflective laces also make the Knit Runner an ideal shoe for nighttime adventures.
Sizes: 5–11
Heel drop: 10mm
Colours: Dark grey
What reviewers are saying: “I wear these shoes to work with my scrubs. I’ve received many compliments on them. I will be ordering more styles, in different colors. I do love the knit design.”
BEST PODIATRIST-APPROVED SNEAKERS
Hoka Bondi 8
With extended heel geometry and rear crash pads, these Hokas guarantee a smooth stride. And the American Podiatric Medical Association’s Seal of Acceptance means you can rest assured these shoes promote all-day comfort.
Sizes: 5–12
Heel drop: 4mm
Colours: Airy blue, shifting sand, and more
What reviewers are saying: “These are probably my tenth pair of Hoka Bondi’s. I can always count on the Bondi to keep me comfortable when I’m on my feet for ten-plus hours a day. They never fail to keep me comfortable. I love the roomy toe box in these shoes. I never knew I needed that!”
BEST MACHINE-WASHABLE SNEAKERS
Allbirds Tree Sneakers
This pair’s next-level comfort comes from its supportive midsole and cooling eucalyptus fiber uppers. And if they ever get a bit dirty, just throw them in the laundry—they’re machine-washable.
Sizes: 5–11
Heel drop: 2mm
Colours: Mist, jet black, marine blue, and more
What reviewers are saying: “These are the most comfortable shoes I’ve ever worn.”
BEST DESIGNER SNEAKERS
Alexander McQueen Oversized Sneaker
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This McQueen sneaker is immediately recognizable with its pumped-up puffy sole. The substantial platform is made even more comfortable with a removable padded insole.
Sizes: 5–11.15
Colours: Black/white, black/black, white/red, and more
What reviewers are saying: “They are great. It’s a very high quality leather, and the platform isn’t huge, but still eye-catching.”
BEST SNEAKERS FOR WOMEN
lululemon Blissfeel 2 Running Shoe
Lululemon studied the anatomy of women’s feet to design sneakers with a tailored fit and feel—which is rarer than you may think. The 3-D-molded midfoot hugs your foot while supporting your stride.
Sizes: 5–12
Heel drop: 9.5mm
Colours: White/black/kohlrabi green, silverstone/white, vapor/lemon sorbet, and more
What reviewers are saying: “I generally get some discomfort and my knee and hip, and when I wear these shoes the discomfort either goes away or isn’t as bad. I recommend these to everybody! If you have wider feet size up. These shoes are snug on the sides.”
MOST SUPPORTIVE SNEAKERS
Saucony Ride 15 Running Shoe
Saucony’s sneakers have just the right amount of cushion to produce maximum softness without compromising support. The sockliner also adds an extra layer of comfort even closer to your foot.
Sizes: 5–12
Heel drop: 8mm
Colours: Grey, black, orange
What reviewers are saying: “I have plantar fasciitis and from the moment I put these shoes on my foot stopped hurting. I call them my miracle shoes.”
BEST CUSHIONED SNEAKERS
Asics Gel-Nimbus 25
I’ve been wearing my Asics since I was a kid, and they never disappoint. With this pair, dual cushioning and gel technology create a neutral sneaker that’s at the top of its category in support and comfort. An OrthoLite sockliner improves step-in comfort as well.
Sizes: 5–13
Heel drop: 8mm
Colours: Cream, pink wave, white, and more
What reviewers are saying: “I work as a nurse and I’m constantly on my feet. I was looking for light and comfortable shoes for twelve hour shifts. I am so thrilled to have found the right shoes. I love how much cushion it provides and bounce i get when i running around during my shift.”
BEST SUSTAINABLE SNEAKERS
Cariuma Salvas Sneakers
Cariuma puts a spin on the classic white tennis shoe with a pair made from recycled mesh, recycled plastic bottles, and premium leather. Signature memory foam and a padded collar make them feel plush and springy all day. The brand has also pledged to plant 10 trees for every pair sold.
Sizes: 5–13
Colours: Ice, black, rose
What reviewers are saying: “These are very comfortable and have good arch support. I have a hard time finding sneakers that work for me and these are super comfortable.”
MOST INNOVATIVE SNEAKERS
Courser Uno Sneakers
Courser is taking the sneaker space by storm with pairs that merge luxury craftsmanship with high-performance technology. An advanced carbon-fiber plate adds stability and flexibility as well. The result? A pair that’s unique but also quite comfortable.
Sizes: 5.5–11
Colours: Cyan, pink, black, and more
What reviewers are saying: “I was ready for a new sneaker obsession and Courser nailed it! Great design, elegant restraint. Very great, all around.”
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This article originally appeared in Harper's BAZAAR US.