Tired of sacrificing style for comfort? These 10 super-cute shoes won't hurt your feet
When it comes to footwear, it used to be you had to forfeit comfort for beauty. Thankfully, designers are finally marrying the two, so you no longer have to walk around in boring “comfort shoes” when you need to look good and be on your feet all day.
What to look for? New York City podiatrist Dr. Emily Splichal says, “If you’re someone who is standing all day, you should look for a slight heel, which seems counterintuitive, yet it offloads the plantar fascia and achilles tendon — very important for foot health. Standing is actually really hard on the body, so having the slight lift offloads those areas that get stressed from prolonged standing.”
Splichal also advises looking for shoes with built-in cushions, especially when you’re on hard surfaces like marble and concrete, because they act as shock absorbers which will help with extra impact, otherwise you could get plantar fasciitis, achilles tendonitis or just plain stinging and foot fatigue, because your foot is working harder than it should. Built-in arch supports are always good— especially if you have flat feet, which get tired more easily. And it’s best to go for forgiving fabrics like elastic, perforation and cotton, versus stiff or vegan leather.
We’ve rounded up our favorite shoe styles to help you find yours: All of these pairs offer major comfort while packing a big style punch. Win win!
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LifeStride Jezebel Booties—ON SALE
These have all the features of a stylish boot with all the secret comforts of your favorite sneakers: super cushioned insoles make hitting the pavement a pleasure. As one pleased customer put it, ” I wanted a bootie that was comfortable, stylish, and reasonably priced. This bootie fit the bill on all accounts! I would recommend this to a friend and definitely buy it again.”
Shop it: LifeStride Jezebel Booties, $50 (was $70), zappos.com.
LifeStride Saldana D’Orsay Pumps—ON SALE
D’Orsay pumps are sexy, but not always easy on the feet. These are both, with extra padding and a heel that’s snug so it will hug your foot all day. As one happy reviewer said, “I bought an extra pair! Very comfortable and professional looking. It’s challenging to find a pointy-toed shoe with sufficient width in the toe, no toe cleavage, and style.” The Saldana gets it right on all points!”
Shop it: LifeStride Saldana D’Orsay Pumps, $49 (was $60) zappos.com.
Love the look of a cool clog boot, but can’t stand the idea of walking around all day on a slab of wood? Look no further—Dansko, the master of clogs, has come up with a super cute boot that bends as you walk. One fan says, “These clog-style booties are wardrobe staples! [They} are exceptionally comfortable, and I say so as a New Yorker who walks everywhere.”
Shop it: Dansko Maria Clog Boots, $170, zappos.com.
Clarks Abigail Sun Fringe Wedges—ON SALE
Here’s a boho secret-comfort sandal in soft suede with fringe — perfect for a long, flowy dress.
Shop it: Clark’s Ankle-Strap Wedges, $63 (was $90), zappos.com.
A pretty spring slingback in ice cream shades can make a simple suit or tailored skirt that much more fun (while still meaning business). p.s. The hidden elastic on the sides makes each step more comfortable than the last!
Shop it: Naturalizer Hannie Slingbacks, $110, zappos.com.
A fun metallic platform has a handy adjustable back strap and lots of arch support. Wear them everywhere, from the beach to brunch.
Shop it: Naturalizer Baya Wedge Sandals, $99, zappos.com.
These have a chic Greek feel with a heel height that’s perfect for walking, and a convenient back zipper for easy removal. Wear them with jeans, floral skirts, anything!
Shop it: Comfortiva Betha Sandals, $110, zappos.com.
A pump-sneaker hybrid can go sporty or a little bit dressier depending on what you pair it with. The rubber sole is easy on the feet, while the pretty pink is easy on the eyes!
Shop it: Clarks Un Tallara Liz Slip-ons, $130, zappos.com.
Munro Laine Criss-Cross Sandals
Not only are they great looking and can be paired with just about anything, “These shoes felt like a dream right out of the box. They fit really well and the leather that comes in contact with my foot is velvety-soft. I love the fact that they are made here in the USA, too,” says one happy customer.
Shop it: Munro Laine Criss-Cross Sandals, $200, zappos.com.
If you need a party shoe but can’t imagine twirling in heels, here’s the answer: A sexy, strappy sandal with all the comfort needs: Ankle and heel support, cradled arch, and secret padding so you can dance dance dance!
Shop it: Naturalizer Kadin Heels, $110, zappos.com.
Read More from Yahoo Lifestyle:
? These sneakers have been deemed the ‘only shoes’ for active jobs
? ‘The answer to my prayers’: The sneakers reviewers say are the most comfortable ever
? Hate heels? These cult-favorite ballerina flats are your answer
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