The 20 Most Comfortable Shoes for Men You’ll Want to Live in
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A house is only as strong as its foundation. A tree is only as solid as its root system. So why aren’t you paying more attention to your feet?
Investing in the most comfortable men’s shoes now will have you earning dividends for the rest of your life — living pain-free far into your future.
“The bottom line is you want to have a good, supportive but comfortable fit,” says Dr. Glenn Davison, owner of Advanced Podiatry in New York City and New Jersey and a Fellow in the American College of Foot and Ankle Surgeons. “This means you should feel the arch of the shoe underneath your sole.”
A comfortable foot generally means a well-supported foot.
In the past, it might have been difficult to find the balance between comfort and style. But not so today. Luckily, according to Dr. Davison, today’s performance sneakers and styles designed for anatomical support are generally ideal for preventing foot ailments that can lead to the need for costly interventions, like custom orthotics, later on.
“Very simply, there’s so much research and development in sneakers nowadays, figuring out where the pressure points are and the flexibility or rigidity required for different sports,” Dr. Davison explains. “So, even your average quality name brand sneaker is going to offer a good supportive fit.”
Top Comfortable Shoes for Men
- Best for Long-Distance Running: Allbirds Tree Flyer Running Shoes
- Most Comfortable Casual Shoes: Adidas Swift Run Sneakers
- Best for Standing All Day: Under Armour Charged Assert 9 Sneakers
- Most Comfortable Nike Shoes: Nike Free Run 5.0 Running Shoes
- Best Slides: Vionic Stanley Slides
- Most Comfortable Running Shoes: Asics Gel-Kayano 28 Running Shoes
- Best Slip-Resistant: Fila Memory Workshift Shoes
- Best for Walking: Skechers Go Walk Arch Fit Workout Walking Shoes
- Best for High-Traction Hiking: Scarpa Zodiac Plus GTX Hiking Boots
- Most Stylish: Cole Haan GrandPro Rally Sneakers
- BestTennis Shoes: On The Roger Centre Court Tennis Shoes
- Best White Sneakers: Rothy’s RS01 Sneakers
- Also Consider Best White Sneakers: Cariuma OCA Low Sneakers
- Best for High Arches: Puma Axelion Sneakers
- Most Comfortable Slippers: L.L. Bean Wicked Good Moccasin Slippers
- Also Consider for Walking: On Cloud Running Shoes
- Saucony Stretch & Go Glide Slip-On Running Shoes
- Nike Air Zoom Pegasus 38 Running Shoes
- Also Consider for High Arches: Skechers Arch Fit Banline Oxfords
- Best for Low-Traction Hiking: Free Soldier Hiking Boots
What to look for in the most comfortable shoes for men
With so many companies in the game, there’s a comfortable and stylish shoe for any and every occasion. But with sartorial norms falling rapidly by the wayside, the lines between what shoe to wear and when are becoming increasingly blurred. A stylish, comfortable sneaker can be just as appropriate for work as it is for your workout.
Dr. Davison’s key advice is to always pick the right shoe or sneaker for your needs. “You stress and strain and use different muscles in different activities,” he says.
Think closely about how you will be moving, because not all shoes are created equal. While we all may want to Marie Kondo our closets, the reality is that it’s often best to specialize for the specific road you’re planning to travel.
Comfortable Walking Shoes: Our feet are our primary mode of transportation, so a comfortable walking shoe should be a staple in your closet. A good fit is pretty easy to come by when you pay attention to ensure you have enough room in the toe box to comfortably move your toes, says Todd Allen, CPT instructor and instructor at Bande. He’s also a fan of breathable mesh uppers, which help sweaty feet stay dry and comfortable longer.
Comfortable Shoes for Standing All Day: If you’re on your feet all day long, it’s important to focus on finding shoes that will distribute your body weight evenly, according to certified pedorthist Michael Fishkin. Proper heel cushioning and midfoot and arch support will leave your foot less apt to fatiguing quickly, he says.
Comfortable Workout/ Cross-Training Shoes: Cross-training shoes, which are defined as shoes that are optimized for a workout that involves two or more types of exercise, have flourished since they came on the market in the ’80s. Our workouts today are more diverse and dynamic than ever. “The right cross-training shoes shouldn’t bite the top of your foot, and the ankle height shouldn’t be too high or too low,” says former Reebok shoe designer Paul Litchfield. “If you do a few jumping jacks or move around in them in the store, the shoes should move with you and not cause any irritation.”
Comfortable Running Shoes: If your workouts typically involve logging long miles on the road or track, you know the value and comfort of a purpose built running shoe. Running shoes have gotten so good, according to running coach Cory Smith, that you really can’t choose wrong, as long as you follow your own personal preferences. Take into account what’s important and feels good to you — whether that’s weight, stability, cushioning or any other range of factors.
Comfortable Trail Running Shoes: Trail running is thrilling because it’s full of surprises. Variable surfaces, unexpected obstacles and sudden climbs all amp up the cardiovascular benefits but pose the challenge of your feet staying consistently comfortable. Seasoned trail runners will remind you to make sure you’re selecting shoes that provide good protection and cushion, adequate grip and rugged construction.
Comfortable Workout Shoes: If you’re looking for a good generalist workout shoe, focus on any known foot problems that might cause flare-ups. Think about whether you have high arches, a wide feet or bad knees. Doctor of physical therapy Dillon Caswell, reminds us that there isn’t a shoe that can do everything, nor is there one universal shoe that works for everyone. In addition to any known physical conditions, take your own workout habits into close account.
Comfortable Hiking Shoes: Picking the most comfortable footwear for hiking is really about knowing the appropriate shoe for the type of terrain and distance you’re looking to trek. Identify whether you’re looking for a lightweight hiking shoe, a hybrid or a true backpacking boot, and go from there.
Comfortable Dress Shoes: Dress shoes today are more versatile than ever. Lucky for men, clever design innovations have made them more comfortable as well. Look for things like textured rubber outsoles and cushioned footbeds.
Comfortable Work Shoes: Work shoes used to be synonymous with dress shoes, but with traditional office dress codes out the window, most of us will find much more flexibility and choice in what is “work-appropriate.” These days, it seems nearly every category of comfortable shoe can foot the bill for office wear. Take what you already know about your foot into account, and you should be able to find footwear that strikes the right chord for any work situation.
Now that you’re thinking more about your feet and what may be currently causing you discomfort, ahead are the 20 most comfortable shoes for men to shop that will suit a range of needs and lifestyles.
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Allbirds Tree Flyer Running Shoes
Most Comfortable Long Distance Running Shoes for Men
- Sizes: 8-14
- Colors: Natural Black, Blizzard, Yellow, Orange and Beige
- Low carbon footprint, made of sustainable materials
When Allbirds set out to develop the Tree Flyer, it aimed to earn the silhouette a spot among the best running shoes. Crafted over two years and tested by 115 runners, the Tree Flyers were designed to go the distance. An all-new insole and flared external heel are built to provide cushioning and support, while the toe spring is created to ease the transition of your gait. “I now have just over 300 miles on them, and 3 or 4 sessions in the washing machine and they are still holding up incredibly well,” writes one reviewer. “They have a great cushion in them, but still manage to be lightweight and not bulky which is the ideal.” Plus, the shoe has an ultra-low carbon footprint and is made with a range of sustainable materials.
To note: One FN editor and former marathon runner found the shoes to be springy, soft and mostly flexible during a 45-minute run, but mentioned she had to add an insole for additional arch support to stay comfortable while running for extended periods of time.
Adidas Swift Run Sneakers
Most Comfortable Casual Shoes for Men
- Sizes: 3.5 – 14
- Colors: 11
For over 70 years, Adidas has remained one of the most renowned makers of athletic wear in the world. While sporty, the brand’s Swift Run sneaker is built for daily life. Perfect to don from work to the weekend and available in a range of colors, the slip-on style features a lightweight, sock-like knit upper and sturdy OrthoLite insole for all-around lasting comfort. Plus, it can be thrown quickly, so you can get out the door at a moment’s notice. “I own many pairs of Adidas shoes, and these are high on my list,” writes one reviewer. “Love the look and comfort.”
Under Armour Charged Assert 9 Sneakers
Most Comfortable Men’s Shoes for Standing All Day
- Sizes: 7-15, including half sizes and extra-wide options
- Colors: 10, including black and white and a blue and white version
The technical structure of a running shoe ensures that the weight of your foot is evenly distributed, which Dr. Fishkin mentions is an essential feature for all-day comfort. Under Armour’s Charged Assert 9 is Amazon’s number one best seller in men’s road running shoes, complete with compression-molded foam that shapes to your foot and a lightweight mesh upper that eliminates rubbing and chafing. It’s a great shoe for those on their feet all day long. “I bought these shoes for work,” comments one shopper. “I’m on my feet 12 hours a day, and these give great support.”
Nike Free Run 5.0 Running Shoes
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Most Comfortable Men’s Nike Shoes
- Sizes: 7-15, including half sizes
- Colors: 7, including Pure Platinum/Off White/Photo Blue/White and Anthracite/Medium Ash/Kumquat/Blackened Blue
Nike is the world’s largest supplier of athletic shoes, but it’s also a juggernaut in fashion. Collaborations with powerhouses like Supreme, Dior and Commes de Garcon have made the brand a go-to for sneakerheads the world over. Inspired by the styles of the ‘80’s, the Nike Free Run 5.0 is no exception. The cushioned insoles and breathable upper of the comfortable Nike shoes offer a barefoot feeling that will keep you comfortable all day. “I’ve owned about 10 pairs of Nike Frees, and I will probably buy more pairs of these,” writes one reviewer. “Super comfortable.”
Vionic Stanley Slides
Most Comfortable Men’s Slides
- Sizes: 7-13
- Colors: Black and Brown
Most slides and sandals run high on convenience but low on the support and stability you need to keep your foot truly comfortable. Not so with Vionic’s Stanley slides. Of course, we’d expect no less from a company founded by acclaimed podiatrist Phillip Vasyli in 1979. These comfortable slides deliver sly support in spades with a concealed orthotic arch and custom fit thanks to an adjustable strap that keeps your foot securely in place. One Vionic customer raves, “They really do help with my plantar fasciitis and seem to immediately relieve symptoms.”
Asics Gel-Kayano 28 Running Shoes
Most Comfortable Running Shoes for Men
- Sizes: 6-16, including wide and extra-wide options
- Colors: 16, including Black/Graphite Grey and Lake Drive/Black
Running shoes and ankle support don’t normally go hand-in-hand, according to Dr. Geller, but Asics’ Gel-Kayanos prove that this marriage can exist. These comfortable Asics running shoes have been the gold standard of support for decades and are a trusted go-to for runners around the world. The sturdy platform and supportive upper that firmly hold your feet in place have been upgraded in recent years with the addition of an FF Blast midsole in the Asics Gel-Kayano 28. One long-time Asics wearer notes, “I’ve been wearing Asics since the early ’90s when I ran in college. In my opinion, this may be the brand’s best shoe yet. Fit and stability are similar to previous Asics Kayanos, but the cushioning feels better.”
Fila Memory Workshift Shoes
Most Comfortable Slip-Resistant Shoes for Men
- Sizes: 6.5-16, including extra-wide options
- Colors: White and Black
Fila’s Memory Workshift is Amazon’s number one bestselling work shoe and has garnered thousands of glowing reviews from customers. Chief among their compliments is that the shoe provides excellent traction thanks to a solid, non-stick rubber sole. The memory foam sock liner provides ample cushioning and the perforated leather upper lends breathability and ventilation. All that attention to detail will leave your foot cozy, dry and comfortable for hours.
Skechers Go Walk Arch Fit Workout Walking Shoes
Most Comfortable Men’s Walking Shoes
- Sizes: 7-16, including half sizes and extra-wide widths.
- Colors: Gray/Navy and Black/Blue
If a comfortable walking shoe is on the agenda, Skechers’ Go Walk Arch Fit walking shoe checks all the boxes. The style delivers on superior arch support with a removable podiatrist-designed Arch Fit insole. The arch molds to your foot and delivers the even weight distribution and shock absorption that professionals like Dr. Fiskin recommend. The Hyper Arc technology also adapts to your stride and is optimized to provide a smoother, more efficient walking gait. And, a breathable mesh upper leaves your foot feeling dry.
