Podiatrists and Fitness Pros Share the Most Comfortable Sneakers to Buy This Year

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The most comfortable sneakers are different for everyone. Picking the best footwear for you depends on your lifestyle and existing conditions. For instance, the most comfortable sneakers for a long-distance runner might be a pair of highly cushioned shoes, while the most comfortable sneakers for a gym-goer might be a pair of versatile cross-training shoes. If you have foot injuries or conditions, such as plantar fasciitis or neuropathy, those factor into the shoe math, too.

Meet the experts: Priya Parthasarathy, D.P.M., a board-certified podiatrist at Foot & Ankle Specialists of the Mid-Atlantic and a spokesperson for the American Podiatric Medical Association; Brittany Watts, a NASM-certified personal trainer and head coach at Tone House; Daniela Celi, an instructor at Barry’s in New York City; Marley Bigos, an instructor at Barry’s in Los Angeles.

At the end of the day, you’ll likely have to try on a few pairs of sneakers before you find the one that’s just right for you. “Every foot is different,” says Daniela Celi, an instructor at Barry’s in New York City. However, there are some key elements to keep in mind when searching for a new pair of sneakers, whether you plan to wear them for strength training, walking, or sprinting.

“Cushioning is key to increase shock absorption and reduce stress on ankles, heels, and toes,” explains Priya Parthasarathy, D.P.M., a board-certified podiatrist at Foot & Ankle Specialists of the Mid-Atlantic and a spokesperson for the American Podiatric Medical Association (APMA). She suggests making sure a shoe cannot fold completely in half, has a removable insole, and has a firm heel counter. You’ll also want to consider what activities you’ll do while wearing it.

Our top picks

Ahead, shop the most comfortable sneakers for all kinds of needs, according to a podiatrist, fitness pros, and editors.

Clifton 9

These are the most comfortable sneakers for walking and running, according to Parthasarathy. “Balanced, cushioned, and supportive, [the Hoka Clifton 9 is a] great option for a neutral running shoe. It is also an APMA Seal of Approval product,” she says. Expect a lightweight sneaker that’s plush and promotes smooth heel-to-toe transitions.

What the Reviews Say: “For every 12-hour restaurant shift that would have destroyed my feet, I have these shoes to thank for being able to get up and do it all over the next day. I absolutely recommend them.”

Cloudeclipse

“For running, the On Cloudeclipse is elite,” says Marley Bigos, an instructor at Barry’s in Los Angeles. “These shoes quite literally feel like you are, in fact, running on a cloud. They’re extremely cushioned and light, which makes me feel like I can run forever.”

Celi also recommends On, in general, when it comes to comfortable running shoes. It “has an excellent selection of shoes that range in levels of cushion and flexibility, depending on whether you plan on going for short or long runs, to be able to sustain impact on your joints,” she says. “Lastly, their ankle support is excellent, which is incredibly important when running on different surfaces.”

Primus Lite III Womens

“I personally use Vivobarefoot shoes for lifting, as they are both flat, wide in the toe area, so my toes don’t feel restricted, and have excellent ankle support, allowing me to feel stable and safe,” says Celi. “They allow me to execute heavier lifts with better posture and control.” They’re basically the closest the barefoot you can get while still wearing shoes. If you’re nervous to try this type of shoe, rest easy knowing Vivobarefoot offers a 100-day trial on all orders.

What the Reviews Say: “They are amazing for grounding your feet when squatting and doing lunges and deadlifts. I also did some cardio on the stair master, and they feel amazing—weightless, flexible, and stable. My feet feel free but also protected.”

Escalante 3

If you’re feet skew wide, check out the Escalante 3 sneakers from Altra. “They have a naturally wide toe box, great supportive structure, and a light, breathable upper,” Parthasarathy notes. With moderate cushioning, a supportive midsole, and a sock-like knit upper, these are ideal for trail running or walking.

What the Reviews Say: “These are the most comfortable shoes I’ve ever owned. Great toe box and supported squishy feel.”

Dropset 2 Training Shoes

“My favorite go-to comfortable sneakers in my collection are my Adidas Original Dropset Training Shoes,” says Brittany Watts, a NASM-certified personal trainer and head coach at Tone House. While her favorites are low in stock, you can shop the latest version of the Dropset trainers in seven color combinations. “They have great arch support and versatile functionality,” adds Watts. “Dropsets are supportive enough to wear during my lifts and comfortable enough to wear all day.”

What the Reviews Say: “I feel planted while wearing these. Great gym sneaker.”

Cloudstratus 3

“The On Cloudstratus shoes are perfect for cross training,” says Bigos. “I feel great running in them, and since they’re much less platformed and cushioned than the Cloudeclipse, I feel safe and secure lifting in them as well.” The best-selling shoes have plush cushioning with a six-millimeter heel drop and a grippy rubber outsole.

528

With a wide toe box, rainproof leather, and a deep heel cup, the Klaw 528 delivers on classic style and podiatrist-approved support. Parthasarthy is fan, calling them “fashion forward” and noting that they have great cushioning, arch support, and a lightweight build (11 ounces, to be exact). Best of all, they’ve earned the APMA Seal of Acceptance, so you know they promote foot health.

What the Reviews Say: “I am 75 years old and have a lot of pain in my feet. I ordered the Klaw shoes with the hope they would be as good as advertised, and 99% of the time I am disappointed because most shoes make my feel worse, but the Klaw shoes feel like I am walking on clouds.”

Pegasus 40

“These sneakers are super cute and great for jogging,” says Watts. “They have a good amount of cushion to absorb impact in style.” Available in 15 colors, the shoes offer a bouncey feel for high energy return with medium cushioning and neutral support that’s ideal for outdoor runners.

What the Reviews Say: “Great trainers—completed many miles during half marathon training. No complaints.”

Adrenaline GTS 23

You can rarely go wrong with Brooks running shoes, and the Adrenaline GTS is a great choice for runners, especially those who tend to overpronate. “They are a good choice for me because I am an overpronator, and they provide the stability I need when running combined with cushioning,” explains Parthasarathy.

What the Reviews Say: “I work 12-hour shifts on a busy hospital floor, and the support these shoes give is amazing!”

Bondi 8

Prevention’s pick for the best Hoka shoe for walking, the Bondi 8 is backed by podiatrists and editor testing. Check out a full review before you buy. The sneaker is highly cushioned with a padded collar and breathable knit upper. Wear them for long walks or days when you know you’ll spend a lot of time standing, and your feet will thank you.

What the Reviews Say: “I feel very stable and confident walking in these shoes. I would highly recommend!”

Salvas

While these sneakers aren’t for exercising, they’ll keep your feet happy all day long, whether you’re running errands, going for a causal walk, or standing at an event. They’re made with premium leather, a removable insole, and a durable rubber outsole. Read an in-depth review of the Cariuma Salvas to learn more.

What the Reviews Say: “Exactly as described. These are my second pair, and I love the cork sole”

Esplar

Take a look at the sidewalk in a busy city, and you’re all but guaranteed to spot at least one person wearing a pair of Vejas. The trendy kicks feature a V-shaped logo on the leather upper, the lining is made of organic cotton, and the outsole is made of rubber.

What the Reviews Say: “Absolutely love these shoes...I didn’t expect them to be so comfortable.”

Allston

When it comes to the best shoes for ankle support, a high-top sneaker is a likely at the top of your list. This option from PF. Flyers has the iconic brand’s classic high-top design with some modern twists: recycled memory foam sockliners and lightweight, flexbile midsoles. Our senior commerce editor has a pair, and she was shocked by how comfortable they are.

What the Reviews Say: “Very comfy and fashionable sneakers. They make a great addition to my shoe collection. I’d recommend PF. Flyers to everyone”

Out N About III Low Waterproof Sneaker

“I love white sneakers, but living in a walkable city, I needed shoes that were easy to clean and would hold up against the elements,” says Prevention’s assistant editor, Madeleine Haase. “These waterproof kicks from Sorel are my new favorite walking shoe for a couple reasons: They’re super comfortable for long walking days, they don’t get as dirty as easily as my other white sneakers, and they go with everything!”

What the Reviews Say: “These sneakers feel so lightweight and comfortable with a perfect amount of cushion.”

The Roadrunner

These sneakers from Birdies (a brand known for it’s comfortable flats) are “definitely worth the hype,” according to our deputy editor, Emily Goldman. “I need a shoe that’s solid and not super bendy sole-wise due to a past injury, and these fit the bill. They are incredibly cute, comfortable, and lightweight, and my orthotic insoles fit in them perfectly.”

What the Reviews Say: “I have inflammatory arthritis in my feet and struggle to find shoes that provide enough support so I can walk and not be in constant pain. These shoes are amazing—not only do they feel great, they also look super cute!”

Run Star Hike Platform

Platform shoes might not scream comfort, but Prevention digital director Allie Early says these funky Converse high-tops are as comfortable as they are cool. “They’re comfortable and supportive but also fun to pair with something more dressed up,” she says. “The super-chunky platform heel is also a dream to walk on...so cushy!”

What the Reviews Say: “The Chuck Taylor is the world’s perfect sneaker, and these platform cross trainers manage to capture the classic look and comfortable fit of the OG Chuck Taylors but with a modern edge and appeal.”

Kinetic RNEGD Lace Sneaker

“Not only do I love how comfortable these sneakers are, but I can’t get enough of how sylish they are,” says our assistant editor, Shannen Zitz. She, like Katie Holmes, enjoys wearing the shoes with all kinds of outfits—from sporty to casual to professional. “Plus, I have a bit of a wonky ankle, and the secure fit keeps me feeling supported and comfortable all day,” adds Zitz.

What the Reviews Say: “I bought these for the aesthetic, but I actually find myself reaching for these almost daily. I work in healthcare, so comfortable shoes are a must for me, and these check all of the boxes.”

How to choose the most comfortable sneakers

✔️ Pick a shoe based on your needs.The most comfortable sneakers for runners are different than the most comfortable sneakers for weightlifters. “I recommend looking for sneakers that are specifically designed for what your lifestyle and needs are,” says Bigos. Along with activities, this also includes preexisting conditions, like plantar fasciitis, back pain, and flat feet.

✔️ Make sure it has a wide toe box. “You should look for a shoe that has a wide enough toe area for your toes to have room to stretch out,” notes Celi.

✔️ See if you can remove the insole. “Ideally the shoe should have an insole that you can remove, this indicates a higher quality sneaker,” according to Parthasarathy.

✔️ Prioritize ankle stability. “Your shoe should support the ankle to prevent ankle injury,” says Watts. Shoes that supports the ankles might be high-top sneakers or shoes with stabilizing features.

✔️ Go for feel rather than looks. “In an ideal world, someone is able to find the perfect shoe for what they’re looking to do that also looks great, however the former is much more important than the latter,” Bigos says.

✔️ Be wary of too much cushion. “While it may seem comfortable at first, these kinds of shoes [with too much cushion] don’t offer any kind of stability and can create imbalances in the foot and ankle complex, which can lead to pain or injuries beyond the feet, perhaps in the knees, hips, or lower back,” explains Celi.

✔️ Check the arch support. “The sole of the shoe absorbs the majority of the shock when we walk,” says Watts. “We need a shoe that is going to protect our joints and ligaments from the impact.”

Benefits of wearing comfortable sneakers

Wearing comfortable sneakers decreases your risk of injury, according to experts. It can also help alleviate pain from foot issues like plantar fasciitis and even improve performance for certain activities, Parthasarathy points out.

How we chose the most comfortable sneakers

We interviewed Priya Parthasarathy, D.P.M., a board-certified podiatrist at Foot & Ankle Specialists of the Mid-Atlantic and a spokesperson for the APMA; Brittany Watts, a NASM-certified personal trainer and head coach at Tone House; Daniela Celi, an instructor at Barry’s in New York City; Marley Bigos, an instructor at Barry’s in Los Angeles. They shared tips on what to look for in comfortable sneakers, and they offered up some personal recommendations for the best comfy kicks. We also conducted our own research on best-selling models from trusted brands and included some editor-approved sneakers we’ve tested ourselves.

Why trust us

For more than 70 years, Prevention has been a leading provider of trustworthy health information, empowering readers with practical strategies to improve their physical, mental, and emotional well-being. Our editors interview medical experts to help guide our health-focused product selections. Additionally, Prevention also examines hundreds of reviews—and often conducts personal testing done by our staff—to help you make informed decisions.

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