Podiatrist Nelya Lobkova, DPM, at Step Up Footcare in New York City says, “The area around the ball of the foot should be shaped similarly to your foot shape. So avoid pointy-toed or narrow, pointed shoes.” Mission accomplished with these chic walking sneakers that offer plenty of room for your toes to spread out. These lace-up shoes are made with mesh for breathability and feature foam insoles for shock absorption as well as built-in arch support.

• Available sizes: 6 — 9.5
• Available colors: 6

Dr. Lobkova says, “Many foot deformities occur in the ball of the foot (i.e. bunion, hammertoes, neuromas, etc.), so this area is important not to squeeze or irritate for a prolonged period of time. A rounded toe box that has some depth works best.” This is where wide-width shoes become important, especially if you have wider feet. These wide-width walking shoes provide lots of space to accommodate your toes without scrunching, and they look cute too. Combining laces and a zipper closure, they feature padded ankle collars and an ultra-flexible sole for a minimalist feel while walking.

• Available sizes: 6.5 wide — 10.5 wide
• Available colors: 9

These lightweight and comfortable Chelsea boots have roomy toe boxes plus EVA foam insoles for cushioned comfort all day long. They’re easy to slip on, thanks to the elastic sides and pull tabs at the heels, while the treads on the soles give you plenty of traction. Besides classic black, they come in fun shades like olive green and bright yellow. Plus, they’re water resistant, so you can wear them in the rain.

• Available sizes: 4 — 13
• Available colors: 15

Another great option for extra toe room are these loafers that are specially designed to support your feet in some unique ways. Made with stretchy material, they’re designed to flex with your feet for a comfortable, uniform fit. Meanwhile, they’re ultra lightweight — only about 5 ounces — so they’re ideal if you’re looking for something that doesn’t feel clunky when you’re running around town. They’re relaxed enough for everyday wear, pairing perfectly with jeans and trousers.

• Available sizes: 4 — 12
• Available colors: 27

When it comes to shoes like sandals and heels, Dr. Lobkova say, “Look for a strap around the ankle [...] The strap provides extra stability in the ankle as well as the awareness that the ankle is supported...” These wedge espadrilles offer sturdy ankle and heel straps with elastic for a snug but comfortable fit. They’re also covered in sweat-absorbent faux suede, with jute accents for a classic, natural look. They have a modest 1.6-inch rise for an everyday, fashionable sandal you can wear with anything.

• Available sizes: 5 — 11
• Available colors: 6

For another option that offers supportive ankle straps, check out these strappy ballet flats. These have a back zipper that makes them easy to get on, with stretchy straps across the bridge and ankle of your feet. The soft faux leather looks like it’s genuine and feels like a dream. These also have cushioned insoles and a nonslip bottom for better grip. One reviewer says, “It’s hard to find comfortable flats. I have worn these several times and can wear them all day and love them. No pain, no discomfort!”

• Available sizes: 5 — 12
• Available colors: 14

Heels have the potential to be hard on feet, but there are some features that can offset any risks. Dr. Lobkova says, “For heel lovers, look for pumps with a platform under the ball of the foot. The platform acts as a shock absorber to decrease the stress on the ball of the foot, which can cause pain and soreness.” These platform heels satisfy that requirement in style. Besides the platform in front, the chunky heel offers extra stability, while the adjustable buckle strap allows for a more customized fit. The shoes feature latex insoles for extra comfort and nonslip outsoles for a more stable grip and footing.

• Available sizes: 5 — 11
• Available colors: 15

These heeled Mary Janes also have a small platform at the ball of the foot to help absorb shock, along with an ankle strap that provides extra stability. The lug soles provide excellent traction while the block heels keep you sturdy on your feet. And because there’s only about a 1-inch difference between the ball and heel, they’re easier to wear than comparable options with a higher toe-to-heel lift. This ‘90s-inspired pair is so classic, whether you style it with a plaid skirt or wide-leg jeans and a blazer.

• Available sizes: 5.5 — 11
• Available colors: 5

When wearing sandals, Dr. Lobkova advises looking for cushioned or platform midsoles, adjustable straps, and “decent” footbeds. She explains that this will “nurture the muscles and bones” and help prevent overuse injuries like ball-of-foot pain and plantar fasciitis. To that end, these sandals feature a cork footbed for flexibility, with suede insoles that mold to your feet for personalized support. The midsoles have a slightly elevated platform of 1.25 inch, while the faux leather straps are adjustable for a perfect fit.

• Available sizes: 6 —12 (select wide options available)
• Available colors: 20

When it comes to traction, Dr. Lobkva says, “Look for a suitable outsole that provides a stable grip, yet is not too bulky, depending on the activity planned for the shoe.” These unique boat shoes offer dramatic traction thanks to their unique lug soles that double as mini foot massagers as you walk. They have padded insoles and soft leather uppers with exposed stitching. Available in nearly 50 colors and styles, including some with cutouts, they’re a great everyday shoe option.

• Available sizes: 5 — 12
• Available colors: 49

A great option for a comfortable and modern everyday sneaker, these running sneakers have so much tread to give you good grip on all surfaces. The rubberized bottom provides traction per Dr. Lobkova’s advice, while the slight platform absorbs shock. The lightweight mesh upper construction allows for some airflow, while the functional laces make these easy to adjust to your feet. The lining is made from a breathable Lycra fabric, and these even have a reflective strip for nighttime exercise.

• Available sizes: 6 — 11
• Available colors: 3

Another lightweight option with great traction, these walking shoes are made with a breathable mesh that will keep your feet feeling fresh and comfortable on the daily. They’re machine washable and easily to slip on thanks to the ankle tabs, and the low-cut design is a classic look. The shock-absorbing outsole adds extra cushioning and stretch, too.

• Available sizes: 6 — 11
• Available colors: 6

Podiatrist Suzanne Fuchs, DPM, at Luxe Podiatry in Jupiter, Florida says, “If you have high arches or flat feet, consider shoes with built-in arch support. This can help distribute weight evenly and provide stability.” These classic white sneakers have a reinforced heel for more stability and added arch support built into their insoles. The mesh uppers are breathable and flexible, and the EVA midsole is great for shock absorption if you wear them when you exercise.

• Available sizes: 6 — 11
• Available colors: 4

Another great option are these simple yet chic ballet flats that are way more comfortable than standard ballet flats, thanks to the built-in arch support. This pair also offers a bit of lift and shock absorption, along with cushioned insoles and traction outsoles. Not only do they literally go with anything and everything, but they come in a whopping 18 colors.

• Available sizes: 5 — 12 (select wide options available)
• Available colors: 18

Flip-flops are notoriously unsupportive, which is why these orthopedic thong sandals are a much better choice. They’re designed with ergonomic arch support to reduce foot stress and discomfort, while improving gait with squishy, shock-absorbing midsoles that make it feel like you’re walking on a cloud. Plus, the bottoms feature traction and grip for safety and sturdiness.

• Available sizes: 5/5.5 — 12/13
• Available colors: 8

For more foot comfort, these ballet flats have built-in arch support and cushioning to help relieve foot stress. The low wedge heel in back offers more shock absorption than traditional ballet flats, while the slip-resistant bottom provides traction no matter what surface you’re stepping on. Aesthetics wise, they’re just about as versatile as they come, going perfectly with everything from baggy jeans to a little black dress.

• Available sizes: 5 — 11
• Available colors: 4

These soft and comfortable gardening clogs — which can be worn anywhere outside the garden, too — are constructed for exceptional comfort. The roomy toe area alleviates pressure and the interior provides medium arch support, with a deep heel cup for stability. Slip them on like standard clogs or pull up the optional ankle strap. They’re great for both indoor and outdoor use, as they’re water resistant and breathable, thanks to the ventilation holes.

• Available sizes: women’s 6 —13 , men’s 4.5 — 11.5
• Available colors: 6

Designed for all-day comfort and wear, these slip-on arch-support loafers by Dearfoams weigh less than 0.8 pound per shoe, making them the perfect lightweight option for any occasion. The shock-absorbing sole and contoured footbed cradle your foot for comfort while the microfiber lining adds an extra luxe feel. Choose from an impressive 25 different colors to suit your style.

• Available sizes: 6 — 11
• Available colors: 28

Investing in a great pair of loafers is always a good idea, and with these arch-supporting ones, the investment doesn’t have to cost a fortune (even though they look like they came straight out of a luxury boutique). Made from vegan leather with gold-tone hardware, these loafers can be dressed up or dressed down, all while featuring an arch-supporting insole that molds to the unique contours of your feet.

• Available sizes: 6 — 11
• Available colors: 4

Dr. Fuchs calls sneakers a “versatile” option, pointing out that that “they often provide cushioning, support, and flexibility.” These lace-up sneakers by Adidas feature the brand’s Cloudfoam midsole along with a memory foam sockliner for tons of cushiony comfort. The stretchy uppers provide lots of flexibility for an all-around great shoe. As far as aesthetics, you’ll find the signature three-stripe design, making for the perfect blend of athletic and street style. Not to mention, these sneakers are also made from at least 50% recycled content, so you can feel good about them, too.

• Available sizes: 5 — 11
• Available colors: 7

These simple canvas sneakers are low profile in the style department, but high on comfort. They’re made with bouncy rubber soles and have interior “plush zone foam” for extra comfort. The soles have a slight platform for shock absorption and the laces help you achieve a customized fit. Choose from this classic white style and 18 other colors — at this price, grab two.

• Available sizes: 6 — 12
• Available colors: 19

These chic sneaks come in a range of colors, including this chic ombré gray colorway, all while being super comfortable, too. The knit upper is flexible, breathable, and light, while the soft midsole forms to your feet. The outsole is built to stand up to all kinds of terrain, designed to cushion shock, resist abrasion, and provide a firm grip.

• Available sizes: 6 — 11
• Available colors: 4

Orthopedic surgeon Dr. Mauricio Garcia says, “If wearing heels, consider features like padded insoles, arch support, and a wider heel base for better stability. Opt for lower heel heights and choose heels with cushioning and shock absorption.” These ballet “flats” fit the bill. They’re super soft and cushiony, complete with a 1.2-inch block heel that offers plenty of stability. The round-toe design leaves room for your toes to spread out and move.

• Available sizes: 5 — 11
• Available colors: 4

Dr. Mauricio Garcia also says, “With heels, I recommend wearing a low heel versus a high heel because the pitch of the shoe is less severe. In low heels, your toes aren’t forced as far forward, making them less susceptible to painful problems like blisters, bunions, or hammertoes.” The low-profile heel on these Mary Janes are perfect contenders, and they also feature contoured shock-absorbing insoles that reduce pressure while you walk. They also have built-in arch support and U-shaped heel cups for extra stability.

• Available sizes: 6 — 11
• Available colors: 3

A great alternative to heels, these flexible flats are totally classic and have a slight wedge of 1.5 inch for just a little lift without compromising on comfort. Plus, the footbed is made from soft memory foam to give a bit of extra padding and stability. They’re offered in standard, narrow, and wide widths for an almost-custom fit.

• Available sizes: 5 — 12 (select narrow and wide options available)
• Available colors: 5

Dr. Garcia says, “Overall, sneakers tend to be a safe fallback because they check the boxes for foot health (wide toe box, arch support, flexible midsole, cushioning, adjustable closures), and the enclosed nature of the shoe means your feet are safe from outside variables like weather and terrain.” For a simple sneaker that’s great for running, walking, and normal everyday wear, these athletic sneakers are a worthy, style-forward consideration. They’re light, breathable, and made of highly elastic material for stretch and comfort. Choose from 27 different colors.

• Available sizes: 4.5 — 13.5
• Available colors: 27

Another awesome sneaker option? These lace-up athletic shoes with ample padding on the insoles and treaded outsoles. Ideal for walking, jogging, and everyday comfort, they have classic style in spades. Besides this fun mint option, they come in brights and color-block styles.

• Available sizes: 5.5 — 10
• Available colors: 21

Dr. Garcia says, “The fit of your shoe should be comfortably snug (i.e. not tight) through the mid-foot, and if the shoes have a back, they should gently cup the heel without any slipping. Toe boxes should be wide enough to allow toes to spread naturally when they come into contact with the group to avoid any uncomfortable pinching or rubbing.” These classic platform sneaks satisfy that advice, thanks to the rounded, wide toe box, cushioned ankle collar, and flexible faux leather upper that expands with your foot while you walk. Plus the pull tab on the front makes them easy to put on and take off.

• Available sizes: 5 — 11
• Available colors: 8

These slip-ons combine the comfort and flexibility of a sneaker with the chic look of a loafer, making them versatile and cool no matter what you pair them with. The cushioned midsole makes them extra comfortable and the lightweight, flexible outsole moves with you, instead of confining your feet. The best part? You can wear them without socks, thanks to the breathable mesh.

• Available sizes: 5.5 — 11.5 (wide sizes available)
• Available colors: 29

If you want major style as well as comfort, you can’t go wrong with these ankle booties. Complete with a low block heel that’s 2 inches, but feels like less thanks to its platform, the booties are super comfortable and have plenty of tread thanks to their lug soles. The pull tab in the back makes these easy to get on and off. Choose from four different colors in faux leather and faux suede materials.

• Available sizes: 5 — 11
• Available colors: 13

According to Dr. Gregory Alvarez, DPM, FACFAS, a podiatrist at the Ankle & Foot Centers of America, “A shoe should bend easily at the ball of the foot not in the middle so it moves with your natural step more closely.” This pair of ballet flats fits the bill, and is so flexible you can even fold them up and put them in your purse on the go. Even better? Bring them along when you know you have to wear uncomfortable shoes. You can change into these softer flats as soon as the moment comes.

• Available sizes: Small — XX-Large
• Available colors: 43

Dr. Alvarez says, “A firm heel counter provides stability and prevents overpronation, which can lead to pain underfoot.” So when you’re shopping, be sure to look for a firm heel counter (that’s the back of the shoe that cups your heel). These sneakers have a flexible outsole, plenty of cushioning, and a structured firm heel counter that’ll support your feet.

• Available sizes: 5 — 11 (narrow and extra-wide sizes available)
• Available colors: 6

As you shop, look out for shoes with great arch support. Dr. Alvarez explains, “Proper arch support helps to distribute pressure evenly throughout the feet.” These slip-on shoes are flexible and comfortable, but have built-in arch support in their soles. The result is a shoe that you may forget you’re wearing (according to reviewers), but that offers a minimalist take on a supportive shoe. The canvas upper is flexible and soft, and these can even be washed in your washing machine.

• Available sizes: 6.5 — 9.5
• Available colors: 6

As far as which shoes to go for, Dr. Alvarez has some advice. “[Walking shoes are] designed with good arch support and cushioning; ideal for everyday use.” Opt for these walking shoes with mesh uppers and tons of cushioning. These are lightweight on your feet but still have a memory foam insole that shapes to your feet as you wear it. These are laceless too, and easy to slip on in a hurry with the pull tab at the heel.

• Available sizes: 5 — 12
• Available colors: 4

If you prefer a little bit of height, don’t go too high. Dr. Alvarez recommends low-heeled shoes “[because] heels higher than two inches can cause strain; low-heeled shoes help maintain natural alignment of the feet.” These mules are perfect, with a super low heel that’s less than an inch. These are made with a soft vegan leather insole that adds cushioning and support, and a vegan leather upper that’s smooth and stretches the more you wear them. While these don’t come in wide sizes, reviewers say these fit super well on their wide feet.

• Available sizes: 6 — 11
• Available colors: 7

A brand that Dr. Alvarez recommends is Skechers, and this pair of Skechers sneakers are so cute. They’re made with a machine-washable canvas upper that’s soft and moves with your feet. And, because the footbed is made with memory foam, you’ll have plenty of cushioning with this pair. Choose from one of more than 30 colors.

• Available sizes: 5 — 11 (wide sizes available)
• Available colors: 33

Asics is another brand that Dr. Alvarez recommends you look out for, and while their running shoes are incredible, these everyday sneakers are also super cute. Their leather upper is a bit more structured than others on this list, but the heel cup is structured to provide more support. One reviewer calls these “super cute and comfy,” and remarks that she already bought another pair.

• Available sizes: 5 — 12
• Available colors: 18

Several of the podiatrists featured in this article recommended a roomy, wide toe box, and these minimalist shoes deliver. They’re designed with a rounded, wide toe box, and a slip-resistant supportive outsole. The minimalist design is great for anyone who hates bulky shoes. One reviewer says, “These are the best sneakers I have found for work. I highly recommend them if your job requires a lot of walking. Best sneaker purchase ever! They are very comfortable and fit nicely, not to mention how good they look on your feet.”

• Available sizes: 6 wide — 11 wide
• Available colors: 3

Sneakers are a popular recommendation amongst the podiatrists consulted for this article, and these slip-on walking sneakers are so great. They have a thick sole, built-in arch support, a lightweight midsole that still provides plenty of cushioning, and a breathable knit upper. These come in a few pastel colors for a fun pop of color, or in classic white.

• Available sizes: 6 — 11
• Available colors: 3

Skecher’s is a brand that came recommended by Dr. Alvarez, and these slip-in sneakers are one of their more popular styles. These feature a machine-washable design that has a lightweight mesh upper, a heel pillow, and plenty of cushioning thanks to its memory foam insole. The best part, though, is how easy it is to slip into these.

• Available sizes: 5 — 13 (narrow, standard, and wide sizes available)
• Available colors: 10

With a low heel in line with Dr. Alvarez’s recommendation, these Chelsea boots are so great for year-round wear. The faux leather will soften as you wear them, and these even have stretchy panels on either side so that they’re easy to pull on. These are well-loved amongst reviewers, and come in so many faux leather colorways, including some with a zipper.

• Available sizes: 6 — 11
• Available colors: 10

These slip-on knit sneakers have plenty of cushioning per the advice of many of the podiatrists in this article, thanks in large part to their memory foam insoles. The thick and slip-resistant soles have light grips on the bottom to give you more purchase when you walk. The knit upper fits to your foot to feel like a pair of socks. And, these slip-on sneakers have pull tabs on both the front and back to make them easy to grab, pull on, and go.

• Available sizes: 6 — 10.5
• Available colors: 17