Podiatrists Say These Are Their Favorite Comfortable Walking Shoes Under $40 On Amazon

“If you’re shopping for walking shoes under $50, look for discounts on reputable names like Skechers or New Balance,” recommends Jerick Sobie, board-certified pedorthist and the co-owner of Lucky Feet Shoes. This pair of Skechers Bobs loafers, for example, offers a memory foam footbed that puts worries about foot pain behind you and looks good on your feet. They are also heavily discounted.

• Available sizes: 5 — 11 (wide sizes available)
• Available colors: 6

Prefer the look of a lace-up? This pair of Bobs sneakers from Skechers is modern — with shredded seams and a decorative footprint — and have a memory foam sole that makes them so comfy. They are a slip-on that looks like they lace up. But you can switch out the laces for functional ones and lace them as tight as you like. The gorgeous colors are all over the rainbow.

• Available sizes: 5 — 11 (wide sizes available)
• Available colors: 29

Who says a good pair of tennis shoes has to cost a small fortune? These are affordable and sport a breathable mesh upper, high-rebound cushioning in the sole, a heavily padded heel, and lots of traction in the outsole. The stretchy laces mean you can slip them on, once you get them laced to fit you perfectly.

• Available sizes: 9 — 13 (wide sizes available)
• Available colors: 8

Go through your day in comfort sporting the peace and love slip-on that looks like a ballet flat and feels like your favorite slippers. The memory foam sole has a built-in pillow for your arches and the canvas uppers breathe, move with you, and look adorable.

• Available sizes: 5 — 11
• Available colors: 1

These boat shoes with a high-rebound insole are super comfortable — not to mention stylish in a heathered gray — and have plenty of traction to keep you safe on slippery boat decks (or out and about on a walk). The pull-on design makes it easy to slip them on and off and a cute anchor embroidered on the heel says you are ocean-ready.

• Available sizes: 5 — 12 (wide sizes available)
• Available colors: 6

Whether you are wearing a pretty dress, leggings, shredded jeans, or shorts, this 2Cute4U sneaker will go with. The memory foam sole will keep you ready and willing for whatever fun happens, too, even if that fun involves walking, dancing, or being on your feet all day. Even the footprints you leave in the sand will be cute.

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

You can run, walk, or work in this pair of Skechers sneakers with a memory foam sole, stretch lace design, and rubber traction outsole. Stylish? Yes. But these heavily cushioned shoes are meant to keep you on your feet and moving. Perforations on the upper keep your feet cool and breathing through it all.

• Available sizes: 5 — 11 (wide sizes available)
• Available colors: 13

You don’t have to drop a fortune to wear a pair of sneakers that take care of your feet. This Sport Pro sneaker from Sketchers is affordable, lightweight, and washable. The memory foam sole offers support and cushioning against impact. And the stylish uppers in cute colors look good doing it.

• Available sizes: 5 — 11 (wide sizes available)
• Available colors: 7

Admittedly, these indoor and outdoor slippers from Skechers have a low back, so they may be better for shorter walks. But they have so many features that make them comfy to wear. The flexible cable-knit upper is soft and moves with you, and these have plenty of tread and a thicker sole to make them great for walking the dog or wearing for short walks or errands when the snowy seasons start.

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

Don’t be fooled by the surprisingly low price of this New Balance slip-on shoe. With details like a molded heel, soft midsole, and rubber outside to give you traction on your feet, this is a shoe that will go with you on your longest runs and walks. The soft upper is breathable and gentle, too, and the insole is made with memory foam.

• Available sizes: 5 — 12 (wide sizes available)
• Available colors: 3

The loop at the heel and easy, stretchy lightweight upper on this FuelCore Nergize V1 sneaker make it so easy to get out the door. And once you are walking, your feet will love the light cushion underfoot. The memory foam insert is soft to walk on and these are stylish enough to wear anywhere with a fabric upper that comes in lots of bright and more muted colors.

• Available sizes: 4 — 10 (wide sizes available)
• Available colors: 35

When you want as little weight as possible on a long run, pull on this Fresh Foam running shoe from New Balance. The midsole is engineered to deliver maximum cushioning and minimum weight while the mesh upper clings to your feet with no friction points. The classic New Balance look goes with your running gear, too.

• Available sizes: 5 — 12 (wide sizes available)
• Available colors: 13

Whether this slide sandal becomes your post-workout kicks, house slippers, or all-day wear, your feet will be happy. The sole is ergonomic and supportive while the top is soft and fuzzy. What could be better? There are a few stylish and non-fuzzy options, too.

• Available sizes: 5 — 13
• Available colors: 12

If you are looking for comfort, Dr. Bradley Schaeffer, DPM, recommends ASICS shoes. “[ASICS is] “a tried-and-true brand of athletic shoes,” he says. And this Gel-Quantum 90 is a good-looking running shoe that comes in a wide range of looks and colors. The GEL cushioning technology in the sole is terrific at absorbing shock as you walk and run and allows your foot plenty of movement through your entire gait. At $35, that’s hard to pass up.

• Available sizes: 5 — 12
• Available colors: 16

“ALLSWIFIT makes walking shoes, tennis shoes, and lightweight gym shoes,” says Daniel Geller, DPM, Chief Medical Officer at Kane Footwear. “The foam insoles create a soft, plush feel.” This pair of the company’s slip-on walking shoes is pretty, comes in great colorful or neutral shades, and is easy to slip on your feet hands-free as you rush out the door.

• Available sizes: 6 — 11
• Available colors: 8

Welcome to this super affordable, stylish, deliciously comfy slip-on walking shoe from ALLSWIFIT. The stretchy, breathable mesh upper is not only colorful but is also light and soft. The padded heel protects your delicate Achilles tendon. The grippy sole prevents accidents. And the reflective stripes add safety. They are also easy to slip on while the laces allow for a custom fit.

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

Check out the sleek, thickened heel on these cross trainer sneakers. The extra padding will protect you from the pavement while adding to your height and style. It also provides stability as you run. The insole, too, stabilizes your gait while adding arch support and comfort. Meanwhile, the ventilated mesh upper keeps your dogs cool and looking good.

• Available sizes: 6.5 — 11
• Available colors: 4

If you are looking for cushioning to protect your feet and knees from impact, this pair of running shoes has it. The air-filled sole and injection-molded, IP midsole absorb the force of your feet meeting the pavement to protect your delicate joints. You’ll stay cool and comfy, too, with your feet wrapped in a lightweight, breathable mesh upper lined with Lycra for a perfect fit.

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

The ease and comfort of this pair of lightweight sneakers makes them a must-have for your wardrobe. The thick sole is nearly a platform and all of it is comfort. Getting them on is a matter of stepping into them and going. The soft insole is removable if you need an orthotic liner. And the colors are wardrobe-staple and gorgeous.

• Available sizes: 6 — 11
• Available colors: 8

“You’ll also want to check the outsole for good traction,” advises Jerick Sobie, board-certified pedorthist and co-owner of Lucky Feet Shoes. “And ensure that laces or straps offer a comfortable yet snug fit to avoid getting blisters.” The outsole on this walking shoe from Ryka has all the grip you’ll need, wherever your walk takes you. Just lace up those traditional laces and enjoy the trail.

• Available sizes: 5 — 12 (wide sizes available)
• Available colors: 37

These slip-on sneakers have so many great features in line with expert advice. Not only do they feature a flexible mesh upper that allows for breathability, but the insole is made with a soft, supportive memory foam with plenty of cushioning in the midsole. The thick outsole is made with traction for extra grip. You know they must be great when nurses approve. One Amazon reviewer says, “Nurse approved. These shoes are comfortable for my 12 hour shifts! It helps so I don’t have knee pain or back pain! I will order more in the future!”

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

With excellent traction to take you from a hike to trail walk to walking the dog, these boots definitely have you covered. The lace-up fit of these boots makes it easy to find the perfect fit, and they’re even water-resistant. These may not be your everyday walking shoes, but they’re perfect for when the situation calls for it. One reviewer says, “I got several compliments on them, and my feet didn’t hurt after many miles of walking. I would highly recommend.”

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

The retro styling — including the original tongue these Saucony shoes sported in 1981 — does not detract from the comfort and traction of this Jazz 81 sneaker. Sure, it looks like the 80s. But the lacing, heavy-duty grip of the molded EVA sole and cushioned sock liner have all the perks of modern comfort.

• Available sizes: 5 — 15.5
• Available colors: 14

If your outdoor activities do not include running, trail hiking, or a long walk in the woods, you can still wear shoes that grip the ground and comfort your feet. This pair of platform ankle booties look terrific with everything from jeans to a dress but they will help you walk in comfort. Slip them on. The lug sole with a block heel adds a bit of height without impeding your walk.

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

Step into these chunky loafers and wiggle your toes in that deliciously soft fuzzy lining. The lug sole and slight heel elevate your outfit and no one will know they are slippers on the inside. The horse-bit accent on the loafer tongue adds a bit of bling. The grippy sole prevents accidents.

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

Is there anything more comfortable on your feet than leather that has molded itself perfectly to the shape of your foot? Maybe this walking loafer made of soft leather with a nubby sole that’s like walking on clouds, all at a price that allows for multiples. The hardest part here is choosing a color.

• Available sizes: 5 —11
• Available colors: 14

“On the flip side, try and avoid shoes made from heavy or stiff materials, which can cause fatigue,” says Lucky Feet Shoes’ Sobie. He advises you avoid shoes that lack “proper arch support or with narrow toe boxes that can cramp your feet.” The roomy toe box and soft fabric of this pair of lace-up loafers is a good example of a shoe with neither of these problems. It is also on-trend and comes in a variety of cute patterns and color combinations.

• Available sizes: 6 — 9.5
• Available colors: 7

Dr. Scholl’s has been making shoes with foot health in mind for decades. And this Luna loafer is a great example of a shoe that looks cute and won’t hurt your feet — no matter how much walking or standing is in your day. The roomy fabric toe box, stretch gore, lightness, and memory foam liner take care of your feet. The eco-conscious fabric, recycled materials, and lack of leather take care of the planet.

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

On days when you have a lot of walking planned but also need to look put together, these lightweight loafers are great. They’re made of a suede-like upper that stretches with your feet, and the memory foam insoles have built-in arch support. The rubber sole provides some extra traction, and these even come in wide sizes for the perfect fit.

• Available sizes: 5 — 15 (wide sizes available)
• Available colors: 14

“A roomy toe box allows for proper toe splay, while good arch support ensures proper foot alignment and reduces strain,” says Sobie. These canvas shoes from WHITIN give your toes plenty of space to splay and they look good doing it. The zero-drop heel, too, helps with your posture and balance as you move. They are breathable, soft, and come in cute colors, too.

• Available sizes: 5.5 Wide — 10.5 Wide
• Available colors: 8

When the weather calls for open-air shoes but your day’s activities promise to be active to the point of foot-tiring, strap on this walking sandal. Your toes will have room to splay. Your arches will have support. Your joints will be protected by the high-rebound platform footbed. And you can adjust the fit to perfection with the adjustable straps.

• Available sizes: 6 — 12
• Available colors: 10

Every wardrobe needs a daily slide you can step into without worrying about being uncomfortable or if it goes with what you are wearing. This pair of flat slides is that shoe. Step into it and walk out the door. The platform sole with a comfy and breathable cork insole is always great. The suede straps adjust to fit. And the shoes go with everything. You can even wear them with socks when the weather turns chilly.

• Available sizes: 5 — 12
• Available colors: 15

Whether you intend to run or merely want shoes that look good, feel good, and let you get through every day with happy feet, this pair of running shoes is a great option. The mesh upper is stylish and breathable, and memory foam sole is supremely comfortable. “Cushioning in the midsole absorbs shock and provides comfort,” says Sobie. “And breathable materials like mesh will help to keep your feet cool and dry.”

• Available sizes: 5.5 — 11
• Available colors: 15

“The heel should be firm but cushioned, and the shoe should feel comfortable immediately upon trying it on,” advises Sobie. This pair of slip on sneakers masters this essential requirement in a rainbow of bold colors. This shoe is also super light, has a nonslip sole, and cinches tight so you can slip them on and go.

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

Jared Menchin, DPM with Leap Foot Ankle Specialists, says, “Mesh materials are also highly breathable and lightweight, making them ideal for athletic shoes or shoes worn in warm climates.” These walking shoes, for example, are rendered in an open, stretchy, mesh fabric that’s comfortable and breathable. That comfy upper sits on a flexible sole with a memory foam insole.

• Available sizes: 4.5 — 13.5
• Available colors: 26

The stretchy, sock-like upper on this pair of tennis shoes is cute and easy to wear with any outfit. It’s also super light and breathable. “[Mesh shoes] allow air circulation, which not only helps with temperature regulation but also reduces moisture buildup, preventing blisters and discomfort,” says Menchin. You can toss them in the wash to clean them, too.

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

These fashion sneakers may not look breathable, but they feature a mesh lining and mesh-covered insole that allows for airflow, per Menchin’s advice. They’re comfortable to wear, have plenty of traction, and lace up for a perfect fit. They also look so cute you will be pairing them with peddle pushers and skirts and elevating every outfit with the retro look of that suede trim and rounded shape.

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

“Cushioning refers to the ‘softness’ or padding within the shoe that helps to absorb the impact of each step,” says Menchin. “Proper cushioning is essential because it reduces the amount of force transmitted to the feet, ankles, knees, hips, and lower back.” This stylish ruler loafer from Dr. Scholl’s has a comfortable insole with anatomical cushioning so your feet will be happy in them, even when walking longer distances. The nearly invisible stretch gore offers an easy fit and extra flexibility.

• Available sizes: 6 — 13
• Available colors: 6

“[Proper cushioning] is especially important for individuals with a high arch foot and people with foot conditions such as plantar fasciitis, metatarsalgia, or arthritis, where excessive pressure on the feet can exacerbate pain and discomfort,” says Menchin. When the cold weather comes keep your feet happy and warm in these winter boots with a warm and fuzzy liner and plush, cushioned insole to protect against cold and foot discomfort.

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

“The toe box is the front part of a shoe covering your toes,” explains Menchin. “When it provides ample space, it allows your toes to spread out naturally, accommodating their full length and width.” This minimalist barefoot boot is a good example of a toe box designed to keep your feet healthy. This ankle boot is not only wide through the toe box but has a barely there sole and stretchy upper to approximate the comfort of walking barefoot — without the risk of stepping on something sharp or dangerous.

• Available sizes: 5.5 Wide — 10.5 Wide
• Available colors: 4