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Teachers, nurses and podiatrists love these bouncy, breathable $39 sneakers
On your feet all day? Then you know the importance of comfortable, supportive shoes. Take a look at Slow Man Walking Shoes — more than 57,000 Amazon shoppers say they hold up to constant wear. Designed with a perforated arch and ample air cushioning, these reasonably priced kicks are among our picks for the best slip-on sneakers out there because of their superior breathability. Plus, they're podiatrist-approved.
Lightweight and flexible, these shoes are made with a mesh upper and wide toe box for an extra-roomy fit.
These shoes are made of mesh fabric, so they feel light on your feet while staying just as flexible as your favorite socks. The outsole has an air bubble — "a great shock absorber," according to Dr. Polina Zaydenberg, a board-certified podiatrist. The chunky nonslip rubber sole also provides "plenty of cushioning," she says, while the wide toe box accommodates bunions and hammertoes.
Plenty of name brands can support your feet on intensely active days, but they often come with equally intense price tags — and who wants to spend upwards of a hundred bucks on sneakers? Though prices vary based on size, color and whether you're a Prime member, you'll still pay under $40 for most pairs of these Slow Man shoes.
That said, these sneakers have more than 57,000 five-star ratings on Amazon — not too shabby for a brand you may not have heard of. And in the ultimate test, they get a thumbs-up from nurses, teachers and other workers who practically live on their feet.
"These shoes are so great for nurses who stand on their feet for long periods," one healthcare worker wrote. "Better than my $150 pair of shoes, no kidding ... They are like walking on bubble-bouncing cushions. I’m buying a couple of other colors."
Another chimed in: "I am a nurse, so I walk and stand a lot. Feel like I am walking on an air cushion. Well-made — was worried about that since the price seemed low, but [they're] holding up well."
Educators love these shoes too: "I am a teacher and have taught for 25 years, which takes a toll on your feet!" one noted. "These shoes are great. They're one of the first in a very long time where my feet are not in pain by the end of the day. I am so glad to have found this shoe. I have ordered three pairs in different colors so far."
One shopper with a "bad back, leg and foot" wrote: "These shoes were suggested by a friend and she was right — they are wonderful! The elevated heel not only eases the pressure on an arch-free foot, but it eases some of the pressure from my back. It adds about 2 inches and shifts my weight. I will definitely be getting these in the future. Best I've had since my back injury!"
However, some reviewers wish these sneakers were easier to put on. "I bought these shoes because I was having a spinal fusion surgery done and could not bend at all to put shoes on," said a final buyer. "These would not just slip on, and it was even hard for my husband to get them on my feet while I was sitting in my wheelchair. They totally fit great once they are on, and they feel great to walk in. The support and comfort are fantastic and they are super cute! If you don’t really, really need ones that slip on incredibly easily, these are great."
This eye-catching dual-toned pair has an equally eye-catching price. Not a fan? There are tons of other colors.
The reviews quoted above reflect the most recent versions at the time of publication.
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