In our opinion, there is no such thing as too much comfy-shoes content. Sneakers, of course, can be a boon for both comfortable and nice-looking footwear, but things can get a little trickier from there, as there’s a fine line between fugly and just plain ugly. So to find the best comfy and not-offensive-looking shoes out there, we asked 18 cool women who spend most of their days on their feet — including servers, chefs, nurses, flight attendants, hairstylists, protesters, photographers, and the like — about the shoes they wear. Although some of our picks may not be the most fashionable or trendy, we recognize that the Dansko clog has been around for much longer than it was the official shoe for hipster ceramists. Who knows what the future holds? We do know that footwear is essential for a healthy back and feet. Below are some examples of footwear that can help.
Comfortable and best heels
Clarks Kaylin Sling Black SuedeStarting at $46
“I’m telling you, anything, literally anything from Clarks that I’ve put on my feet, I’m like, ‘Oh yeah.’ I’m willing to pay more for them because I know that they’ll be comfortable,” says Cassadi Currier, a hairstylist at Pembly Joon. She’s not the only one who loves Clarks. Three of our experts recommend them. Currier says that these heels, not wedges, are her favorite because they keep her feet warm for up to six hours. Clarks are also a favorite of Currier’s, as they come in many styles. Kaylins are a favorite because they look like booties, but have a sandal that allows your toes to shine through, she says.
Clarks Women’s Emslie lulin Mary Jane$85Now 60% off from $34
Crystal Roseberry, a flight attendant, says that women in her field typically wear two pairs at work. There’s the terminal shoe, which is sexy and worn from the moment they arrive at the airport to the time they land. Then there’s the in-flight shoes which are more casual but still comfortable. But Roseberry says these Mary Janes from Clarks — of which she has bought multiple pairs — are “the best of both worlds; comfortable enough to wear all day long, and still fairly cute.” They’re her “hands-down favorite,” she adds. Sandra Hinton, a 42-year-old flight attendant, says these shoes are very comfortable. She credits the “rounded toe”, cushion and support in your instep, as well as the “little bit of platform” and low heel.
Dansko Women’s Sam Ankle-Strap Clog$120
Server Tess Parker says that “the pickings are slim when it comes to finding something supportive, but still looks cool and young,” Dansko‘s Ankle-Strap Clogs, which Parker calls “a solid-gold tip” for anyone with knee or back problems, are the first pair of shoes she has found that fulfilled her requirements of being both supportive and young- and cool-looking. Parker says that the clogs have a “slightly forgiving platform” which makes them comfortable. She also mentions that shoes are often damaged by our jobs, but that these shoes are very durable.
Flats that are comfortable and stylish
Easy Spirit Gessica Ballet Flats$69Now 40% Discount on $41
Sorah Edeltuch, Nurse, told us that she wears sneakers most of the time. But for something a little more polished, Edeltuch puts on the Easy Spirit Getcity flats that she says are just as comfortable. She says that although Easy Spirit is known for making grandma shoes, this pair doesn’t seem like it’s meant for grandmas. They feel like you’re walking on pillows. I get so many compliments when I wear them to work.” Easy Spirit no longer sells the Getcity flats, but they’re built on the same base as these Gessica Ballet Flats, which are available for $70.
Fila Women’s Kimber Slip Resistant ShoeStarting at $16$48Now 67% Off
Editor’s Note: While these flats are now sold out, you might be able to find a pair of them on Poshmark or eBay.
Heather Kovarik, a flight attendant, says that she has tried so many flats. After trying out many styles, she settled on two pairs that were perfect for her: Dr. Scholl’s Fila and Fila. Kovarik said that both shoes have “traction so it’s less likely to slip” and “fairly cushioned on the inside.” She also mentioned that they are more comfortable than any other pair she tried.
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