On Cloud 5
When it comes to comfort, it’s hard to beat the On Cloud 5. It’s an everyday shoe that offers extraordinary comfort (thanks to air pockets built inside the sole and CloudTec cushioning that adapts to each person’s foot) and the slip-on style makes it easy to get on and off, which is why so many travelers wear these sneakers to the airport. While they aren’t built for serious running, the Cloud 5’s are ideal for walking, and they look polished enough to wear to work.
Supportive, Cushioned And Breathable
Asics Gel-Kayano 30 Running Shoes
Between the advanced foot-guiding system for stability, gel technology that softens landings and eco-cushioning made from 20% bio-based content, the Asics Gel Kayano is a sneaker you can count on whether you are walking, running or sprinting. Plus, the engineered mesh upper is remarkably breathable and prevents feet from overheating.
Rocker Bottom Propels You Forward
Hoka Clifton 9
Loved by everyone from elite runners to fashion influencers to podiatrists, the Clifton 9 is lauded for its cushioning and comfort. It’s made of breathable vegan mesh, and has molded EVA foam in the midsole and a gusseted tongue to keep out dirt and gunk. The chunky outsole harnesses “rocker” technology that helps you push off while running or walking.
Designed For High-Impact And Long Miles
Brooks Glycerin 21
When you’re logging miles on the road, you need a padded shoe to cushion the blow each time your feet hit the pavement. The Brooks Glycerin 21 is up to the challenge with soft cushioning for extra plushness, a breathable and flexible warp knit upper and a “GuideRails” support system to keep feet stable and steady. While the shoe is cushy, it still feels fast—and it’s available in a wide width.
Stretchy Upper That Molds To Your Feet
APL Techloom Phantom
APL (which stands for Athletic Propulsion Labs) is a Los Angeles-based brand that was founded by twin brothers (and collegiate athletes) Adam and Ryan Goldston in 2009. Their sneaker technology was considered so groundbreaking that their Concept 1 basketball sneakers were the first shoes to be banned by the NBA for giving players an unfair advantage. The APL Techloom Phantom is an attractive, vegan, comfortable shoe made from supportive 3D Stretch TechLoom that adapts to your foot shape.
Smarter, And More Stylish, Golf Shoes
G/Fore Gallivanter Golf Shoes
Women’s golf shoes used to be stodgy and old-fashioned, but G/Fore changed the game with their edgy designs (studs!) and stylish color combinations (periwinkle blue stripes!). Even the bottom of these shoes is cool—pink, with the G/Fore logo on one sole and a skull and bones on the other. What’s more, the Gallivanter offers impressive cushioning for walking the course and enough grip to maintain stability while you swing.
Best Lifestyle Sneakers
These sneakers are designed more for style than sweaty exercise, but they still have enough cushioning to keep your feet comfortable all day.
Vintage Styling With Plenty Of Cushioning
New Balance 327
These vintage-looking trainers are modeled after 1970s running shoes. While they don’t have the technical features that you’ll find in the brand’s performance shoes, they’re lightweight, comfortable and have a grippy sole. Wear them when regular running shoes feel too casual, and you have a lot of walking to do.
Timeless Sporty Design
Converse Chuck Taylor All-Star Sneakers
You can’t go wrong with classic Converse Chuck Taylor All-Star Sneakers. The canvas upper is notoriously durable, and while the signature rubber toebox is more for style, it adds an extra layer of protection. Also, there’s plenty of midsole cushioning to keep feet supported when you’re on the go.
Simple, Yet Iconic
Adidas Stan Smith
The Stan Smith earns a spot on this list due its versatility and timelessness. The pared down trio of stripes and the touch of Kelly green on the heel give them an understated look that has been iconic since the shoe first launched back in 1971.
Quintessential Fashion Sneaker
Golden Goose Super-Star Low Top
Golden Goose practically invented the fashion sneaker with its glamorous spin on the low-cut basketball shoe. Made in Italy, distressed by hand, and featuring glittery accents, these sneakers are often paired with dresses, skirts and other formal clothing. They are expensive, but those who love them swear that they’re worth the investment.
Supportive And Stylish Basketball Shoes
Nike Dunk Low Sneakers
The Nike Dunk Low launched in 1985, and has experienced a recent resurgence in popularity thanks to its bold and fashionable color combinations like Ecru Waffle Knit and Suede, Claret Croc Effect, and Green Metallic Leather. (If you prefer a more austere, all-white look, opt for the equally iconic Nike Air Force 1 ‘07.) The shoe runs a little large, so you may want to go down a size.
Sustainably Made And Stylish
Veja Campo Sneakers
If you’re looking for a fashion sneaker and Golden Goose gives you sticker shock, consider the wildly popular Veja Campo, which is less than half the price. These Brazilian-made sneakers are crafted from soft leather and suede and come in a variety of colors—from basics to pastels to bold hues. They have a roomy toebox which accommodates wider feet, and the sustainable rubber outsole is sturdy and durable.
Soccer-Inspired Styling
Adidas Samba
Once a shoe worn primarily by soccer players, the Samba (along with its sister shoe the Adidas Gazelle) is a now a fashion staple for both women and men. The sleek, low-profile shoe is made from soft leather and has a durable, flexible gum sole. The only downside: These cool and stylish sneakers tend to sell out fast.
Retro Trainers That Feel Modern
Tretorn Rawlins Sneakers
Tretorn is a heritage brand that’s been around since 1891, and their new spin on the classic canvas sneaker features an EcoOrtholite insole and a sturdy, stable heel. But what really sets them apart is the retro styling and the classic, crisp colorways.
Best Work Sneakers
You can wear sneakers to the office, as long as they look professional. These polished pairs are appropriate for meetings and business travel.
Sleek, Slip-On Design
Vince Blair Slip On Sneakers
Combining the comfort of a sneaker with the slip-on ease of a loafer, the Vince Blair is a top pick for work and travel. The perforated leather lets feet breathe (which is especially important in sweltering summer months) and the sleek styling and wide range of colors make them one of the most versatile sneakers on this list.
Dressy Enough For Dinners And Events
Cole Haan Grandpro Topspin Sneakers
Sneakers are now an accepted part of the business casual look, but you don’t want to wear the same shoes to the office that you wear to the gym. The Cole Haan Grandpro Topspin is polished and professional-looking, and offers features like a cushioned Grandfoam footbed and a sturdy EVA midsole, which makes them comfortable for commuting.
Polished And Professional
Wolf And Shepard Cruise Lace-Up
With its streamlined shape and neutral color options, the Wolf And Shepard Cruise Lace-Up is work-appropriate and stylish. The Italian leather upper has a removable foam footbed for comfort, a luxurious calfskin lining and a modern-looking TPU (thermoplastic polyurethane) sole that’s both flexible and durable.
Soft, Cushioned Fit
Allbirds Tree Runners
Made from lightweight, breathable eucalyptus tree fiber and padded with SweetFoam midsole cushioning (derived from Brazillian sugarcane), the Allbirds Tree Runner is popular for commuters and CEOs. Don’t be afraid to buy them in white—if they get dirty, you can just toss them in the washing machine.
We research, test and thoroughly analyze the best sneakers, dress shoes, boots and latest releases for our footwear stories.
- The publication of this article was overseen by deputy editor Kari Molvar, who has written and edited lifestyle content, including health and fitness articles, for more than 20 years.
- This article was written by contributing fashion writer Lesley Rotchford, who has a written about women’s and men’s fashion for nearly 25 years and has tested dozens of sneakers throughout her running and tennis career.
- We tap our internal expert sources to gain firsthand insight on the products we feature.
- To ensure our reviews match up with customer comments, we sift through reviews and consider customers’ experiences before recommending any shoes.
How We Chose The Best Sneakers For Women
- We conducted research on popular sneaker brands to find out which shoes rated the highest.
- Forbes Vetted contributing fashion writer Lesley Rotchford scrutinized these results and also reviewed sneakers that she has personally worn and evaluated them based on on comfort, style and performance.
- Our editorial team and internal group of experts weighed in on their favorite pairs.
- We analyzed customer reviews (including comments related to the buying and shipping process) to ensure our selections reflected consumer favorites.
What to Consider When Shopping For Women’s Sneakers
The most important thing to consider when selecting sneakers is how they feel on you feet. After all, these are sneakers—they’re supposed to be comfortable. Look for features like EVA midsole cushioning, thick, pillowy soles (which indicate extra cushioning), padded tongues and removable orthotics. Also, a wider toe box that allows toes to splay out can prevent aches and foot deformities, like hammer toes, from developing over time.
Leather is a smart choice for sneakers because it molds to your foot and offers extra support. But solid leather is not very breathable, which is why some brands, like Vince, offer perforated designs to release trapped heat and keep you comfortable. Running and walking shoes are often made of mesh or knit which have built-in breathability and stretch to accommodate wider feet.
The most versatile and stylish sneakers tend to be streamlined. This makes them look less athletic and more like a lifestyle shoe that can be dressed up or down. Even some running sneakers are becoming sleeker and more aerodynamic looking. Take the APL Techloom Phantom for example, which is designed to be reminiscent of a feather.
All-white sneakers are having a moment, but neutrals like beige and gray tend to feel most appropriate for work. Splashes of color can dress up sneakers, so if you’re shopping for a sneaker that you may want to wear out at night, look for pastels, metallics or statement hues.
What Shoes Are Comfortable To Walk In All Day?
While most running and walking sneakers are comfortable enough for all-day wear, Hoka makes the cushiest shoes. The Hoka Clifton 9 has marshmallowy soft soles that keep feet feeling comfortable for hours.
What Sneaker Is Most Popular?
Each category of sneaker has its stars, but from a fashion and lifestyle standpoint, the French brand Veja is exceptionally popular. Other top-rated heritage sneaker brands include Nike, Adidas and New Balance.
What Is The Most Iconic Sneaker?
The Converse Chuck Taylor All-Star, Adidas Samba and Adidas Stan Smith are three of the most iconic sneakers ever made, and each have enjoyed decades of popularity.
