Podiatrist Gregory Alvarez, DPM, FACFAS, at Ankle & Foot Centers of America, explains that arch support is key. “Arch support helps equalize pressure across your feet, thus maintaining good health. It relieves common problems like flat feet, plantar fasciitis, or arch pain.” This pair of slip-on mesh sneakers is available in 12 different colors and features a sturdy arch-support insole, along with air cushioning for extra comfort and shock absorption. The soles boast anti-slip protection to keep you stable on a variety of surfaces.

• Available sizes: 5.5 — 10
• Available colors: 12

Another great option for arch support are these chic loafers with metallic buckle details. The timeless and versatile silhouette of a driving shoe is combined with enhanced arch support aimed to reduce foot fatigue. They’re made from smooth vegan leather with a faux suede lining, while the flexible traction outsoles provide extra stability and slip prevention.

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

These adjustable buckle sandals have footbeds made with genuine suede and cork to conform to the unique contours of your feet for custom arch support. The outsole is equipped for traction, while the footbed ensures flexibility and comfort with each step. For stability, you’ll find a deep heel cup in the back.

• Available sizes: 5 — 12 (select wide sizes available)
• Available colors: 22

These slip-on ballet flats are another great option — although they might not offer quite as much arch support as the preceding options, they do feature contoured footbeds and a microfiber lining, complete with extra padding underfoot. Super versatile, they can be dressed up for work or dressed down with jeans for a more casual look. Made from breathable, machine-washable material, they features an understated two-tone design.

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

Complete with memory foam insoles, these tennis shoes provide for unparalleled cushioning as well as arch support — perfect for those who are on their feet all day. Made with lightweight and durable mesh-knit uppers, they keep your feet cool and supported while featuring a slip-on style for added convenience. The cushioned ankle collar is the cherry on top.

• Available sizes: 6 — 10
• Available colors: 5

Nothing says “ease” quite like a foam-based sandal and this strappy pair is no exception. Designed with adjustable buckle straps for a custom fit, the super thick and cushioned platform provides excellent shock absorption while still being lightweight — weighing just over 5 ounces. Arch support, deep heel cups, and toe bars complete the comfort profile.

• Available sizes: 6 — 10
• Available colors: 5

Giving off cozy, almost vintage vibes, these suede clogs are the perfect, go-with-everything pair that, yep — boast some serious arch support, too. Made from genuine suede and adorned with adjustable buckles, they have deep heel cups that stabilize your feet, while the cork molds around your unique curves. Pair them with denim or maxi skirts for a laid-back vibe.

• Available sizes: 5.5 — 14
• Available colors: 3

Dr. Alvarez also says, “Walking shoes should be lightweight but still offer good arch support while allowing flexibility, too...” He gives a nod to Skechers for having flexible soles, which he explains are good for low-impact activities like walking. These best-selling B Cute sneakers by Skechers come in more than 30 colors, making it easy to find a shade (or multiple shades) you love. They feature a lace-up design and memory foam footbeds for added comfort and support. Because they’re made of 100% canvas, they’re super lightweight, while the casual, frayed details add an element of style.

• Available sizes: 5 — 11 (select wide sizes available)
• Available colors: 32

Another great lightweight option by Skechers are these Reggae Simply Stretch sandals. They feature soft and stretchy fabric bands that hug your feet, while the cushioned and contoured footbeds offer support. They stay securely on, thanks to their slingback heels and feature both arch support and lots of traction.

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

Comfort and cooling capabilities combine in the Cleo Flex wedge shoes by Skechers. With the look of a ballet flat — but the shock absorption of a platform sole — they have a stretchy fit designed for lightweight comfort. The scalloped edges add some visual interest, while the flexible rubber outsole ensures stability and support.

• Available sizes: 6 — 11
• Available colors: 2

Dr. Jason Gold, a board-certified podiatrist at Foot, Ankle & Leg Vein Center, steers shoppers toward Skechers shoes. This popular pair of sneakers, which is backed by a 4.6-star rating from Amazon reviewers, has midsole cushioning and breathable insoles for comfortable walking. Traction outsoles provide stability with each step.

• Available sizes: 5 — 13 (select wide sizes available)
• Available colors: 8

These walking shoes are specifically designed for flexibility and comfort, with a wide-toe design that allows your feet to move freely. The soft rubber sole provides stability, while still allowing your feet to bend and twist with ease. With a subtly arched insole, they also absorb shock to help relieve foot fatigue.

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

For another pick from Dr. Gold’s recommended brand, check out these Skechers sneakers. The memory foam insoles and terry lining make them comfortable for walking, while the canvas uppers and thick rubber soles lend casual style to any sightseeing outfit. Color options include navy, white, black, tan, and pink.

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

Another great option for extra toe room, these athletic shoes feature a wider toe box, complemented by a premium knit upper for flexibility, breathability, and a lightweight feel. Plus, they come in sizes designed for wider feet. They slip on like a glove and feature soft padding around the ankle collar that helps reduce friction and muscle fatigue to keep you comfortable all day.

• Available sizes: 6 wide — 11.5 wide
• Available colors: 5

You’ll want to always ensure your shoes have stable traction, but what is it, exactly? Dr. Alvarez explains: “Traction refers to how much grip a shoe has; especially if one frequently walks on wet or uneven surfaces, they need nonslip soles. With good traction, slipping is minimized, which ensures stability and safety.”

These walking boat shoes provide excellent traction since they’re made with a durable outsole complete with “massaging” nubs for added comfort. The simple loafers are made from soft leather with exposed seams, along with padded insoles for all-day wear. Plus, they come in a whopping 49 different colors and styles.

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

Offering enhanced cushioning, these thong sandals boast responsive soles that add a little bit of height. The knit uppers are made from soft fabric that’s comfortable on your skin, and Amazon reviewers are pleased with the sandals’ arch support. “These sandals are great. They're sturdy but not clunky,” wrote one shopper. “They're comfortable to walk in, even long distances, and have good grip.”

• Available sizes: 6 — 10.5
• Available colors: 9

For a sportier sandal, you can’t go wrong with these strappy Skechers. They feature satiny criss-cross bands with a toe ring for stability, and the gel-infused memory foam footbeds offer cushy support while you’re on your feet for long walks. The midsoles also absorb shock while you’re pounding the pavement.

• Available sizes: 5 — 11
• Available colors: 3

Dr. Gold says, “Features you should avoid when searching for the perfect walking shoe include anything too pointy or too tight in the toe box.” These walking sneakers fit the bill since they’re designed with a roomy toe box that prevents your feet from feeling squished. The removable foam insoles are like pillows for your feet and the slip-on style is super easy to get on. Last but not least, they’re breathable, with a high-traction construction.

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

For a non-athletic option, these faux leather clogs feature a slip-on design and boast the refined look of a closed-toe mule. The cushioned footbeds and thick soles help absorb impact with every step. For a unique aesthetic, they have exposed stitching and an artistic cutout motif.

• Available sizes: 5 — 10.5
• Available colors: 6

Podiatrist and Foot Health Specialist Rob Hermann of Adelaide Foot and Ankle in Australia has a recommendation when it comes to sneakers. He says, “[ASICS'] gel cushioning system and supportive design make them a reliable choice for those seeking comfort.” These ASICS running shoes offer superior cushioning and support, thanks to that aforementioned gel padding, which effectively mitigates shock during impact, helping to ensure smooth, comfortable movement. The spongy midsole provides additional bounce, while the mesh uppers keep things breathable.

• Available sizes: 5 — 12
• Available colors: 17

Dr. Gold suggests looking for breathable shoes, which you’ll find in this pair of knit loafers. Featuring air-cooled memory foam insoles and a stretchy, sock-like fit, these shoes offer airy comfort for long walks. As a bonus, they’re machine-washable so you can keep them looking like new.

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

“Known for their lightweight and ergonomic design, Crocs offers several models under $35 that are ideal for everyday wear,” Dr. Hermann says. Complete with an optional ankle band, these Crocs can be worn indoors or out and are super easy to slide right on. They’re also water friendly — and even buoyant — and can be easily cleaned by just wiping them down. Most impressively? They boast a stellar 4.6-star overall rating after 170,000 reviewers have weighed in.

• Available sizes: 6 — 15
• Available colors: 49

Designed with contoured footbeds for comfort, these slide sandals by Crocs offer similar support to clogs, but are great for warm weather, thanks to their open design. Water friendly, they offer a secure fit thanks to the flexible straps, and they make an excellent choice whether you’re walking to the local pool or taking an evening stroll by the shore. You can also personalize them with Jibbitz shoe charms to make them uniquely your own.

• Available sizes: 6 — 15
• Available colors: 8

As part of the LiteRide collection by Crocs, these sandals offer an intensely cushioned fit, thanks to the brand’s LiteRide foam insoles that won’t weigh your feet down. The footbeds are super soft, so your feet will sink right into them for cradled support. Meanwhile, Crocs’ Matlite Motion straps mimic fabric for a breathable, flexible fit.

• Available sizes: 4 — 11
• Available colors: 3

Dr. Hermann also says, “Cushioning provides shock absorption, which is essential for protecting the feet during walking or running.” A great option are these slip-on mesh shoes that are designed for long-term wear, while providing air circulation that helps keep your feet fresh and odor free. Per Dr. Hermann’s advice, the durable memory foam midsole ensures added comfort and shock absorption with every step.

• Available sizes: 7 — 11.5 (select wide sizes available)
• Available colors: 29

Another great option for shock absorption are these walking loafers complete with padded insoles for comfort while walking or standing for long periods of time. The chic and soft leather uppers feature a woven design, while the thick outsoles provide traction and stability. One happy reviewer wrote, “I have now purchased 4 pairs of this shoe. It fits snugly. [...] The sole really helps me stay secure when walking. And...I get lots of compliments!”

• Available sizes: 5 — 11
• Available colors: 20

Dr. Hermann also stresses the importance of airflow when it comes to shoe choice saying, “Breathable material helps keep the feet dry and reduces the risk of fungal infections.” Ventilated mesh is the main feature of these sneakers that are stretchy and offer impact absorption to reduce the stress of movement on the body. The sock-like material hugs your feet, while the memory foam footbeds provide some much-welcome cushioning.

• Available sizes: 5 — 13 (select wide sizes available)
• Available colors: 33

Take another tip from Dr. Gold, who says, “Shoes that are too stiff and do not bend can also lead to pain when walking.” With a lightweight outsole and knit uppers, these walking sneakers offer flexibility with each step. Their breathability is enhanced with a mesh lining and foam insoles provide cushioning while you walk. And with a slip-on design, it’s easy to step into these shoes and head out the door.

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

These slip-on walking mules are another great contender — and you can just step into them and be out the door. They’re made with widened toe caps, while the breathable mesh uppers allow for air circulation and stretchy comfort while walking. They’re backless, so no need to worry about blisters, and also feature a flexible sole that helps reduce foot stress.

• Available sizes: 5 — 10.5
• Available colors: 5

Lastly, Dr. Gold says, “The shoe should be supportive to the arch and have cushioning for shock absorption. Stiffer soles, when used in the shoe, offer more support.” Combining style and comfort, these walking shoes have shock-absorbing soles to minimize the impact of each step. They also feature structured outsoles with traction for enhanced stability.

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