It’s no secret that finding the perfect pair of shoes makes you feel great. If they’re the right style, fit and look, chances are you’re going to love wearing them.

However, sometimes the pair that looks amazing isn’t as comfortable as you’d like. The good news is you don’t need to sacrifice shoe comfort for style. In this guide, we’ll show you what to look for to find the best comfy shoes for you

What makes footwear comfortable?

Here are the features to look out for when searching for a comfortable pair of shoes.

Padded lining

Ideally, the level of padding in your shoe should be sufficient to prevent your feet from rubbing, without constricting their movement.

If you’re searching for men’s shoes or women’s flat shoes, look for padding around the ankle, side of the foot and top of the foot. Hunting for heels? Find a pair of shoes with padding around the toes and heel. After all, these areas are typically the most vulnerable to soreness and blistering, so extra padding will help ensure shoe comfort.

Foam insole

Insoles provide a padded surface for your feet throughout the day. Memory foam insoles mould to the shape of your foot to provide maximum comfort. Learn more about shoe insoles.

Flat base

Flat shoes are often the most comfortable option. They allow your feet to roll heel to toe when you walk, evenly distributing the weight across your foot.

Room inside the shoe

The main reason people suffer when wearing shoes is that they haven’t picked the right size. If you aren’t sure of your correct shoe size, have your feet measured.

When you try your shoes on, you should have enough room to wiggle your toes (slightly). If you can’t move your toes at all, your shoes are too tight and may eventually cause you pain. This is an important point to bear in mind when choosing comfortable shoes for women, such as high heels.
Follow our size guides for picking the correct size of men’s shoes and women’s shoes.

Find out exactly how to find the right shoe sizes below: 

• Men’s shoe size guide
• Women’s shoe size guide

Firm sole

The firmer the sole, the more stable the shoe. Picking a rubber sole that is a minimum of 1-2cm thick will provide padding between the foot and the hard surface you’re walking on. A flexible sole will often be very thin and won’t protect the bottom of your foot from impact with the ground, which can cause pain in the soles of your feet.

The biggest factor in shoe comfort is the design – specifically the padding, sole and fit. The next time you’re shopping for shoes, look out for:

1. Padded lining inside
2. Foam insole (memory foam is the best option)
3. Flat base (as opposed to a heel)
4. Room inside the shoe (especially around the toes)
5. Firm sole

The next time you’re shopping for comfortable work shoes, or a pair you’ll feel relaxed in on a night out, look for these specific design elements and try them on before buying if you can.

Why is it important to wear comfortable footwear?

Wearing comfortable work shoes is important if you’re on your feet for long periods. Wearing uncomfortable shoes can lead to common foot problems including:

• Blisters
• Foot arch issues
• Gait problems

By wearing shoes that fit well and provide your toes with enough space, you’re less likely to risk crowding your feet. You’ll also prevent blisters by wearing comfortable shoes which are tight enough to hold your foot properly yet relaxed enough to avoid causing friction, according to the NHS.

How to choose comfortable footwear

Choosing appropriate footwear is crucial for maintaining foot health, enhancing physical activity and preventing injuries. Always opt for well-fitting shoes tailored to your foot size, shape, activity type, and any specific foot concerns. This ensures comfort, promotes overall wellbeing and safeguards your feet, legs, and joints during various activities. Take a look below at the main factors to consider when choosing new footwear.

Size

Of course, selecting comfortable shoes begins with finding the correct size. To do this, measure both feet regularly and choose the size that accommodates the larger foot. You’d much rather have room to grow than painfully squeeze your feet into a shoe too small. But you should also consider width as well, making sure the shoe provides ample space for your toes to move. Before committing to the purchase, test your new shoes out by walking around indoors, checking that they do not pinch or rub.

Material

When it comes to buying the most comfortable shoes, you should always pay attention to the materials used. Breathable fabrics like leather and mesh are going to be the best for promoting air circulation and reducing moisture. However, some leathers are not always that soft, so opt for canvas, suede or even Gore-tex.

But when it comes to the inside of your shoe, memory foam insoles offer customised comfort and support, while EVA is a lightweight and shock-absorbing material commonly used in midsoles.

Shape

A good shape for comfortable shoes considers the natural contours of the foot. Look for shoes with a wide toe box to allow natural toe splay and reduce pressure on the toes. A rounded or squared toe shape will also provide ample space for toe movement.

Shoes with a supportive arch and proper heel will counter-maintain stability and alignment, while a slightly curved or straight last accommodates various foot shapes.

The overall design should prioritise comfort, allowing for a secure fit without constricting movement or causing discomfort.

Stability

Finally, you should be looking at whether your comfortable shoes provide stability. This is particularly important if you have had a foot injury and need extra support. First and foremost, look for adequate arch support, as it maintains the foot’s natural alignment. You could also check to see if they have a firm heel, which will provide stability around the heel and ankle, contributing to a secure fit. 

Ensure the outsole has reliable traction to prevent slips and falls. A well-cushioned and supportive midsole helps absorb shock during each step, promoting comfort and steadiness. 

Opt for shoes that securely hold your foot in place without causing pressure points. Additionally, some shoes may offer extra ankle support, a valuable feature for increased stability during various activities.

Other factors to consider:

Choosing comfortable shoes involves several other considerations. Start by getting your feet measured regularly, as your shoe size may change over time. Whilst doing this, you should also take into consideration your individual foot shapes, such as arch type and width, to find shoes that accommodate your specific needs. If you have more arched feet or very flat feet, look for cushioning and support in the insole and midsole. 

Another tip is to assess the closure system, choosing between laces and straps based on personal preference and the desired level of adjustability.

Lastly, consider the intended use of the shoes, whether for casual wear, sports, or work, to meet specific comfort requirements. But of course, always try your shoes on before you purchase to make sure that they provide the desired fit.