The best shoes we tested for all-day standing
Best shoes for standing all day: Hoka Bondi 8
Best dress shoes for standing all day: The Walking Company ABEO Boulevard Loafer
Best casual shoes for standing all day: Birkenstock Boston Soft Footbed
Being on your feet for hours every day is easier when wearing the best shoes for standing all day. Foot health should never be taken for granted. Our feet do a lot of work, keeping us mobile, supporting our body weight and even absorbing a lot of the impact we experience daily. Wearing comfortable sneakers or a pair of comfortable work shoes is the least we can do to ease the burden.
You'll be surprised how many people still underestimate the benefits of wearing comfortable shoes, prioritizing style or a cheap price tag instead. That's fine if you're on your feet for a short time, even though you're still risking injury if it's a pair of high heels with poor stability. However, it's a whole different story for all-day wear. Without a pair of comfortable shoes -- preferably a lightweight one with good arch support, a bouncy insole, good traction, a lot of stability and a spacious toe-box -- your feet, ankles and legs may experience fatigue and discomfort within the first hour. It's worse if you're in healthcare, education or the service industry and have to move around a lot.
To help you protect your feet, we tested 18 of the most comfortable shoes people swear by, wearing each pair at work for four to eight hours while standing at our desks, walking around in the office and doing our day-to-day tasks. We also talked to five working professionals in the fields mentioned above as well as an orthopedic surgeon. In the end, we found three pairs that delivered the best comfort for all-day standing. The best part is you don't have to sacrifice style with either pick.
Hoka Bondi 8
Best shoes for standing all day
Hoka Women's Bondi 8
Hoka
With amazing support and shock absorption, the Hoka Bondi 8 are the best shoes to wear standing all day is non-negotiable.
$165 $132 at Hoka
$165 $132 at Nordstrom
$165 $132 at Dick's Sporting Goods
Hoka Men's Bondi 8
Hoka
These comfortable and supportive pair are also available in men's sizes. They're not cheap, but they are worth every penny.
$165 $132 at Hoka
$165 $132 at Nordstrom
$165 $133 at REI
The Walking Company ABEO Boulevard Loafer
Best dress shoes for standing all day
The Walking Company
The most comfortable loafers we've ever used, thanks to their soft lining, great fit and very supportive soles, the ABEO Boulevard Loafers from The Walking Company are a staple in every wardrobe.
$166 at Amazon
$166 at The Walking Company
Birkenstock Boston Soft Footbed
Best casual shoes for standing all day
Birkenstock Women's Soft Footbed Clogs
REI
If the situation calls for casual comfort, these popular clogs from Birkenstocks should be your go-to. They've got great arch support, and they're super stylish.
$160 at REI
$160 at Free People
Birkenstock Boston Soft Footbed Clogs
Birkenstock
Available in mens' sizes, the Birkenstock Boston Soft Footbed will see you through all your standing all-day needs, whether it's at work or when you're traveling.
$160 at REI
$160 From $145 at Backcountry
Best shoes for standing all day: Hoka Bondi 8
Michelle Uy/CNN Underscored
These days, workout sneakers are more stylish and versatile than ever so you no longer have to sacrifice great comfort over fashion or vice versa. It's one of the reasons why Hokas are so popular, despite being on the pricier side. The Hoka Bondi 8, for example, will set you back $165, which puts them in a higher price range than many of the shoes in their category. But they're completely worth it, which is why we put them in the top spot as the best shoes for standing all day.
Hoka -- or more accurately, Hoka One One (phonetically oh-neh) -- has built a reputation for making the crème de la crème of running shoes. Every runner we know has gushed about them in reverent tones at least once. But you don't need to be a runner to enjoy these shoes. We've worn out our Rincon 3 by regularly going on short hikes in them. And the Hoka Bondi 8 is just the multi-tasking pair you want if you need to be on your feet for hours every day.
These shoes are incredibly comfortable and supportive, offering great arch support, bouncy-enough insoles, a higher stack height, soft toe caps and plenty of space in the toe box. We wore these while staying upright in the office for more than five hours and experienced no fatigue, thanks to all the support, stability and shock absorption they offered. We also found it comfortable for all-day wear out of the box, with no breaking-in necessary.
Michelle Uy/CNN Underscored
These are so comfortable you'll probably wear them out faster as you'll want to wear them for everything you do. Even the American Podiatric Medical Association (APMA) gave these its seal of approval as a product that's "beneficial to foot health." Luckily, Hokas are also known for their rugged durability so these are guaranteed to last you a while, even if you wear them daily.
As with most Hoka running shoes, they're also very lightweight. They're not the lightest in our testing pool. The other top-spot contender, the similarly-priced New Balance Fresh Foam X 1080v14, is slightly lighter. But they're lightweight enough to considerably minimize fatigue, especially if your job involves a lot of walking.
The one thing these Hokas do better than the New Balances is traction. Because they are made for running, they're slip-resistant and have a lot of grip, making them ideal for all types of terrain -- dirt paths, paved roads or the greasy floors of a busy diner. Speaking of wearing them in your workplace, these have very breathable mesh-made uppers so you don't want to worry about overheating or trapped moisture even after a long 12-hour shift at the hospital.
If you're looking for the best shoes for standing all day, the Hoka Bondi 8 may be a pricier investment but your feet will thank you for them.
Best dress shoes for standing all day: The Walking Company ABEO Boulevard Loafer
Michelle Uy/CNN Underscored
There's a reason why loafers are a wardrobe staple for almost everyone -- school kids, office workers, fashion influencers, etc. Their classic look is versatile and stylish, but they're made to be comfortable and breathable as well. They're just the perfect go-to if your job requires a dressier pair of shoes, like if you work in a fine-dining restaurant or as a teacher.
We scoured the web for the most comfortable loafers and tested three: the under-$100 Quince Italian Leather Lug Sole Loafer, the over-$150 Coach Leah Loafer and the mid-range ABEO Boulevard Loafer from The Walking Company. All three lived up to their reputation of comfort and craftsmanship, but the pair from The Walking Company took things to the next level.
The first time we slipped on The Walking Company ABEO Boulevard Loafers felt like putting on leather butter. The premium leather uppers and sheep leather lining are very soft and luxurious, making our feet instantly pampered.
Michelle Uy/CNN Underscored
The most traumatic thing about wearing leather shoes is the almost inevitable blisters that come when breaking them in. But that never happened with these. It helps that the brand developed an ingenious way of keeping them at bay -- the rounded side of the inner collar keeps the shoes in place while minimizing friction on our feet. We've worn a lot of loafers in our lifetime, and we don't think any of them took this brilliant approach before.
The ABEO Boulevard Loafers are also incredibly comfortable to walk around and stand in all day. They have a decent stack height for shock absorption, a little extra space in the toe box, great cushioning and midsoles that are slightly curved at the toes to reduce pressure. They're also incredibly lightweight, which helps keep foot fatigue at bay, and the lug soles are durable and provide a lot of grip.
There's a lot of stability here, thanks to the great arch support and the brand's game-changing BIOsystem orthotic footbed designed to deliver "a perfect balance of anatomical support, responsive cushioning and balanced alignment for exceptional all-day comfort". But depending on your specific needs, you can select the right footbed for you as well.
Being leather, these aren't going to be as breathable as our top pick above, but they are still breathable. Our feet didn't experience any overheating, even after wearing them for a full day in 80-degree Fahrenheit weather.
The Walking Company ABEO Boulevard Loafers will cost you more than $150 but since they'll last you a few years, keep your feet comfortable and help prevent orthopedic issues, you're actually saving money.
Best casual shoes for standing all day: Birkenstock Boston Soft Footbed
Michelle Uy/CNN Underscored
Josceline Toribio, a fine-dining backwaiter and barback at Fleming's Prime Steakhouse and Wine Bar in Los Angeles, says "I try to either bring an extra pair of Birkenstocks or sandals with me to work so I can slip my feet in after I am done with my shift to alleviate any pain or discomfort." There's a reason why Birks are very popular. They're stylish and supportive, thanks to the footbed that offers plenty of arch support.
The Birkenstock Boston is a classic, but we prefer the Birkenstock Boston Soft Footbed whose insoles are bouncier, especially around the middle. And they're the best shoes for standing all day if you're looking for a more casual pair -- like if you work at a coffee shop or a non-luxury retail store.
Michelle Uy/CNN Underscored
Admittedly, the stack height could be higher and we could have used a bit more cushioning at the heels but the soft footbed still makes a considerable difference. And of course, the arch support their contoured footbed offers is phenomenal while the soft suede upper and microfiber lining ensure a blister-free experience. We tested by standing all day and walking up and down small hills in these clogs without breaking them in first, and we didn't get a single blister.
There's also plenty of space in the toe box, not too much that it makes them harder to walk in, which was something we experienced with the pricier and heavier Blundstone #2381 All-Terrain Clog, but enough so that there's a good balance of breathability and warmth. It's why these are many people's go-to fall and travel footwear.
Birks are also known to last for years so while these are $160 a pair, you know they're durable enough to give you your money's worth. Just bear in mind that they don't have the best traction -- the Blundstones are superior in that respect -- so we wouldn't recommend this if you're dealing with slippery conditions.
How we tested
Michelle Uy/CNN Underscored
To find the right shoes for your feet, it's important to try them on yourselves because not only do feet differ in size and width, but people also have unique gait cycles, arch types and foot pronation. So what's comfortable for most people may not be the best choice for you.
However, since there are so many shoe models, we thought we'd narrow the list and point you in the right direction. To do this, we took 18 pairs of the most popular, highly rated and comfortable shoes out there and tested them ourselves by wearing each pair for several days for at least four hours a day, making sure that we were on our feet the whole time, standing at our desks, doing our daily work tasks, running errands and walking to and from our yoga studio.
We then evaluated each pair using the following primary criteria:
Comfort
Overall comfort: We looked at cushioning: if they had bouncy soles to absorb shocks and enough stack height for shock absorption. We also looked at the shape, if they were somewhat rounded to take some pressure off the balls and heels and spread the work more evenly. Arch support: How's the arch support? Do they have enough to help distribute pressure, provide stability and minimize pain? Breathability: We want to look at the ventilation: do they get too hot to wear all day? Do they trap moisture?
Design
Durability: We want to get our money's worth, and if we're regularly using a pair for all-day use, we need it to be more robust. So we assessed every pair's build quality and the materials they're made of. We also checked online reviews to get an idea of their longevity. Traction: Traction is important for waitstaff and nurses as they walk all day and sometimes deal with slippery floors. We checked each pair's grip, especially on smooth surfaces. Fit: We noted if the sizing was accurate, or if the shoes are too narrow or too wide. We also checked if there was enough space around the toe caps and noted if they required breaking in or caused blisters.
Value
Value: Considering how the shoes were rated on the criteria above, we determined if they were worth the money and if their price was competitive.
What to look for in shoes for standing all day
Michelle Uy/CNN Underscored
To help you find the right shoes to wear when you're on your feet the entire day, whether it's on the job or you're traveling and clocking in a lot of miles, we asked the help of not just an orthopedic surgeon but also five people whose job requires them to be on their feet for five to 12 hours a day. We enlisted two nurses, two waitstaff and an elementary school teacher, each boasting at least six years of experience in their field.
Support
Excellent arch support should be your top priority when choosing the right shoes for all-day wear, especially if you must be on your feet for a chunk of that day. Dr. Struan Coleman, an orthopedic surgeon at the Hospital for Special Surgery (HSS) and co-founder of Motive Health, says "Supportive footwear is critical for a job that requires standing and being active. Shoes should fit properly and have good arch support."
According to the Sol Foot and Ankle Centers in Long Beach, California, "Your arches also give you the flexibility to move, including running and walking. Your arches help create balance and provide stabilization, including when moving across different terrain." Therefore, providing your arches with the support they need has many benefits, including pain relief, balance improvement and correction, and proper body alignment.
The professionals we interviewed agree. Stacey Torio, a registered nurse and health informatics specialist at the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs, agrees. "I have very narrow feet," she says, so having "strong arch support" is necessary as well as being "easy to clean and sporty (as I'm) not a fan of clogs." Travis Brown, a travel registered nurse, says he also prioritizes "comfortable shoes with good arch support. I have several pairs that I rotate to prevent wear and tear."
Meanwhile, Josceline Toribio, a fine-dining back waiter and barback at Fleming's Prime Steakhouse and Wine Bar in Los Angeles, says she looks for "comfort in the soles, specifically in the arch because I have flat feet."
Good cushioning
Bouncy insoles with good cushioning are also very important when standing and walking around all day. They don't just give your feet comfort and pain relief; they also improve shock absorption, keep foot fatigue at bay, and improve your stability.
Quinn Collins, a fine dining server at Mastro's Ocean Club in Los Angeles, says it's the first thing she looks for in her shoes for work. "I look for comfortability in the insoles of the shoe, something padded and comfy, as well as correct sizing (to make) sure I feel the utmost comfort when walking around for long periods." Brown also stresses their importance: "If my favorite shoes start to wear out, I replace the insoles with more supportive ones."
Proper fit
Coleman also stresses the importance of proper fit. Arch support and good cushioning won't make a difference if you don't have the right fit. We're not just talking about the right size here. Proper fit also includes having enough (or not too much) space in the toe box, the shape of the shoes and more.
Toribio, for example, makes sure she gets the right width due to her wide feet. Torio, on the other hand, says "I liked lightweight and sporty footwear so I would wear Nike Free Run Flyknits because (they) had some compression and (were) built for narrow feet.
Meanwhile, Anika Swisher-Shukuya, a retired teacher from Southern Oregon, uses specific shoes for pronation. "The Hokas are more of a neutral shoe. I pronate. I had Fleet Feet analyze my gait and they recommended the New Balance Fresh Foam Trail Shoes, which are designed for pronators," she says. "These give me stability for my feet, and I do have inserts to just give me more cushion."
This is why it's important to try a pair of shoes on before you fully commit. Luckily, most brands and retailers offer a 30-day money-back guarantee on most shoes. Just make sure you don't wear them outdoors or on dirty surfaces for hours, as most only accept returns if the shoes are unworn and in their original packaging.
Breathable and lightweight
Breathability and lighter weight are just as important, especially if it's a pair of shoes that you'll be using regularly or at work. When Torio worked in the emergency room, for example, it was important for her to don a pair of breathable, lightweight shoes -- shoes that are "easy to run in for emergency codes."
Shoes with poor breathability can have serious consequences for your foot health like blisters, swelling and fungal infection while heavy shoes can decrease air circulation, cause foot fatigue and more.
Style matters too
Michelle Uy/CNN Underscored
You must always choose substance over style when it involves your health and well-being. There's rarely a good reason to wear something like high heels when standing on your feet or walking around for hours. As Swisher-Shukuya says, "I've never been a fancy shoe person. Some teachers wear high(-heeled) shoes; I would die."
However, prioritizing comfort, support and stability doesn't mean you can't be stylish either. Today, shoemakers and shoe brands design shoes that are both extremely comfortable and very stylish. "Comfort is a top priority for my work shoes," says Brown, "but I also want to look professional and stylish. Fortunately, many brands offer both fashion and function."
Besides, sometimes it's important to look your best at work. "Style," according to Toribio, is non-negotiable when she's looking for work shoes "because I need to look presentable. I love Sketchers for work but unfortunately, they don't have nice styles all the time under polished shoes. So, my alternatives are the nurse clogs called Dansko, but they can be too heavy at times."
Collins has the same approach when looking for work shoes. "Being fashionably sensible is something that's just a part of who I am. I always believe in being comfortable but stylish! If you can find a cute pair of comfy work shoes, you've got a winner! "
Taking care of your feet
Wearing comfortable shoes is only one part of the equation. Recovery time and taking good care of your feet will also ensure you aren't left with negative long-term consequences like back issues. Coleman says that "standing all day at work can include poor circulation, leading to increased swelling of the legs. This can in turn lead to heart issues. Prolonged standing can also cause lower back pain."
On top of getting lots of rest, Torio recommends stretching and pilates for core training, Brown stays active, exercising regularly to strengthen muscles and promote circulation, and Swisher-Shukuya does yoga.
Of course, not letting your feet recover from an 8 to 12-hour shift, most of which you're spending on your feet, could also "lead to fatigue and muscle soreness," says Coleman so "it's important to take breaks and stretch, and rest if one is extremely active at work."
Both Brown and Collins take that a step further. Brown rewards his feet and legs by "taking hot baths or using a sauna helps soothe sore muscles." Meanwhile, Collins says "Sometimes a little extra care does the trick like getting a good foot rub. I also purchased a bubble deluxe foot bath that soothes and massages your feet with a good hot soak and vigorous bubbles with a built-in foot massager."
Other shoes we tested
New Balance Fresh Foam X 1080v14
New Balance Women's Fresh Foam X 1080v14
New Balance
These very comfortable and supportive New Balance shoes are second only to the Bondi 8 when it comes to standing all day footwear.
$165 at REI
$165 at Zappos
$165 at New Balance
New Balance Men's Fresh Foam X 1080v14
New Balance
Available in mens' sizes, they are great for running, walking and, of course, standing all day thanks to their high stack height, rounded midsole and arch support.
$165 at REI
$165 at Zappos
$165 at New Balance
The New Balance Fresh Foam X 1080v14 was a surprising contender. Although it isn't exactly the talk of sneakers town, these running shoes managed to make it to our final five with their impressive stability, great breathability, good arch support and bouncy insoles.
Thanks to its higher stack height and a rounded midsole made for running, there's a lot of shock absorption here, making it ideal for walking as well. If you're clocking in more than 5K steps at work, these will be very kind to your knees, lower back and, naturally, your feet and legs. That's especially because there's enough space in the toe box to ensure that your toes are just as comfortable as the rest of your feet.
And you need not break these in either -- we first tested these without socks on just to see how they felt, and we did not get a single blister. That's how comfortable these New Balances are. While that may seem a little unsanitary to go sockless, these shoes' triple jacquard (we love saying that word!) mesh upper did help keep things breathable and cool.
Sadly, the Hoka Bondi 8 ultimately asserted their superiority in comfort and traction. While the Hokas avoided foot fatigue for the eight hours we wore them, we started to feel some mild discomfort at the heels in the New Balance Fresh Foam X 1080v14 after hour four. Plus, although these have good traction, they aren't as great as the Hokas.
On Cloud 5
On Women's Cloud 5
Michelle Rae Uy/CNN Underscored
Better for walking and hiking, these shoes from On are incredibly easy to put on thanks to their stretchy uppers and laces.
$129 at Amazon
$140 at REI
On Men's Cloud 5
Nordstrom
With impressive traction, a great fit and an attractive look, the On Cloud 5 is fantastic for walking and hiking.
Shop at Amazon
$140 at REI
Our friends (and their fairly active parents) swear by the On brand so we had high hopes for the On Cloud 5, which is On's easy-to-slip-on model. We see the appeal, and after testing them at work, while running errands and on our way to the yoga studio, we loved how easy they were to put on, thanks to their stretchy yet supportive upper and stretch-power flex laces.
Being athletic shoe lovers, we've gone through our share of sneakers that require a lot of lace adjustments, and we can truly say that these shoes skip that whole process. Those game-changing laces do well to rebound back to secure our feet and keep them in place. It was impressive how we did not have to adjust them at all.
These Ons also have impressive traction and a great fit. There was enough space around the toe box to ensure our toes were comfortable, and the shoes didn't require breaking in. What's more, these are more affordable than the Hoka Bondi 8 and the New Balance Fresh Foam X 1080v14.
Sadly, their insoles are not as bouncy as the other two, their stack is lower and arch support isn't as great. These shortcomings drastically affected their shock absorption and overall comfort. These also aren't as supportive as the other two, with us experiencing minimal foot fatigue after eight hours of standing and walking around in them during testing.
Hoka Arahi 7
Hoka Women's Arahi 7
Hoka
Those with narrow feet or prefer a tighter fit may prefer the Arahi 7 from Hoka. They deliver great stability and help minimize overpronation.
$145 From $116 at Hoka
$145 From $116 at Zappos
$145 at REI
Hoka Men's Arahi 7
Hoka
Correct your overpronation, have better stability and stay comfortable with these Arahi 7, available in mens' sizes.
$145 at Hoka
$145 at Zappos
$145 at REI
Narrow-footed kings and queens, and folks with plantar fasciitis, may appreciate the snugness of the Hoka Arahi 7's fit. Made for increased stability and to correct or prevent overpronation (excessive inward roll of the feet), these running shoes were among the top performers in our testing pool.
They're more affordable than the Hoka Bondi 8 -- specifically $20 cheaper -- but perform just as well with traction and breathability, thanks to its flat-knit uppers. What's more, their arch support is superior to that of the Bondi 8, and those are some pretty big shoes to fill, so to speak. And like the New Balance Fresh Foam X 1080v14, they're also more lightweight. Finally, these have some height, thanks to their higher stack, rounded midsole, and naturally, good shock absorption.
Sadly, it also suffered the same fate as the New Balances for not being quite as good as the Bondi 8. These are comfortable but the not-so-bouncy insole and tighter toe box proved to be their undoing. The latter may not be a big deal to those with narrower feet, but the former is a deal-breaker for those on their feet all day.
To be fair, if you want something cheaper than the Bondi 8, you can get these and supplement them with a pair of bouncier insoles.
Coach Leah Loafers
Coach
These loafers from Coach feel luxurious, and they're so comfortable, you don't need to break them in. If you want the perfect balance of style and comfort, these are the ones to get.
$195 at Amazon
$195 From $117 at Nordstrom
$195 at Coach
Teachers and fine-dining waitstaff often need a dressier pair of shoes they can stand and walk around in all day while at work. Luckily, we tested three of the most comfortable loafers on the market, including the Coach Leah Loafers, which are lauded for their impeccable mix of form and function.
While the beautifully crafted upper that sports the brand's iconic C logo and a luxurious finish make these loafers a must in every loafer-worshipping fashion lover's closet, its soft man-made leather lining, memory foam footbed and lug rubber outsole keep things practical and sensible for working professionals whose priority is comfort. What's more, we wore this out of the box and sockless with zero breaking-in prior, and our feet came out unscathed -- just like with The Walking Company ABEO Boulevard Loafers.
However, as impressive and as beautiful as these Coach Leah Loafers are, there are a few things that hold them back from greatness. The toe box and the area around the toe knuckles are on the tighter side. We assumed that was on purpose to secure your feet, but after seeing The Walking Company's rounded collar solution, we now know there are better ways to do so -- and putting pressure on our big toe knuckles just isn't one of them. What's more, these are also $30 more.
Quince Italian Leather Lug Sole Loafer
Quince
Comfortable yet affordable loafers are a little trickier to find. Thank goodness for Quince, whose lug sole loafers are supportive and great at shock absorption. They'll also keep you warm during the colder months.
$90 at Quince
Quince is proof a product doesn't have to be expensive to be good. You can get these Italian Leather Lug Sole Loafers for just $90, which is almost half the price of the Coach Leah Loafers. And they feel durable and well-made, not what you might expect from a pair of inexpensive shoes. The lug sole is even made of high-quality thermoplastic rubber (TPR) so you get great traction and can rest assured the outsole will last for years.
Inside, there's a soft cow leather lining that feels decently luxurious, a bouncy Ortholite insole that provides good cushioning, especially at the heels, and a high enough stack to give you some height and shock absorption. The rounded midsole also helps with shock absorption and distributes weight more evenly. Finally, the upper, made of Italian Nappa leather, feels nice to the touch and gives it a more premium look.
Unlike the Coach Leah Loafers, there's more space in the toe box and a little more arch support. Still, they couldn't beat The Walking Company ABEO Boulevard Loafers in overall comfort. We experienced some minor fatigue after standing in them for four hours, and because the upper and collar were a little stiff at first, we found that some breaking-in was necessary. We also found them on the warmer side, which says something about its breathability.
Cariuma Salvas
Cariuma Women's Salvas
Cariuma
A celebrity favorite, these trending sneakers from Cariuma are very comfortable to walk around in, making them the perfect addition to your travel gear.
$139 at Cariuma
Cariuma Men's Salvas
Cariuma
You'll tire less walking around in these trending sneakers from Cariuma when you're on your travels. They're available in mens' sizes too.
$139 at Cariuma
Cariuma Salvas went viral a few months ago, with several celebrities being spotted sporting them and some media outlets talking about how comfortable and perfect they are for travel and walking around all day. Naturally, we had to add them to our testing pool to see if they lived up to the hype.
There's a lot we like about them. They feel very durable and well-crafted, which means these are likely to last you a good while. They're also comfortable in that they offer accurate sizing and a good fit so you can wear them out of the box without breaking them in first. Additionally, they're very lightweight and have some good traction and arch support for good stability. There's also some rounding at the midsole to help with even weight distribution and shock absorption.
Sadly, a few things hold them back from being a good pair of shoes for standing all day. The insoles aren't as bouncy or cushioned, and the stack height could be higher. During our testing, those caused minimal fatigue when we had these on for a few hours at the office and then another few hours at a press event where we did a lot of walking.
What's more, these don't have as much space in the toe box, which caused some mild toe discomfort, and aren't the most breathable of the bunch either. We would add these to our sneaker collection but they wouldn't be our go-to if we need to be on our feet all day.
Keen Versacore Speed Shoe
Keen Women's Versacore Speed Shoe
Keen
Aptly-named, these shoes from Keen makes standing all day a breeze, thanks to their soft and breathable upper mesh and roomy toe box.
$130 at Keen
Keen Men's Versacore Speed Shoe
Keen
Also available in mens' sizes, the Versacore Speed are lightweight, have great traction and have a rounded midsole to distribute your weight evenly.
130 at Keen
We were just going to test the Keen WK400 initially but Keen suggested that we test these athletic hikers instead because of its snug, contoured fit, foam strobel board cushioning and less rounded midsole. We understand the reasoning; the WK400 is designed specifically for walking -- or at least to make walking more of a rolling experience -- and their rounded midsole makes them trickier to stand on for long periods.
The Keen Versacore Speed, on the other hand, has a more neutral midsole, which makes them easier to stand around in. They still have a slightly upturned midsole for better weight distribution but not too much that they make your feet and legs work harder to stay upright.
These shoes are also very comfortable, lightweight and breathable, with a soft mesh upper and lining and a great fit so you won't need to break them in. They also have a lot of room in the toe box and a good grip, which isn't surprising as they're meant for hiking.
However, we also could have used the WK400's better cushioning, higher stack height and better arch support. We think that between these two models is a pair of shoes that could rival the Hoka Bondi 8. But in its current iteration, we would use the Versacore Speed for short hikes and workouts.
Keen WK400 Walking Shoe
Keen Women's WK400
Keen
While they might not be the best for standing, these shoes will have you power walking faster and more comfortably. You'll last all day walking in these.
$170 $150 at Amazon
$170 at REI
$170 at Keen
Keen Men's WK400
Keen
These walking shoes, available in mens' sizes, have great shock absorption, excellent arch support and a bouncy insole.
From $100 at Amazon
$170 at REI
$170 at Keen
The Keen WK400 may have appeared in a couple of shoes for standing all day guides, but we think these are best saved for what Keen designed them for -- walking. Especially if you're a power walker clocking in a few miles a day, these may just be the shoes you need with their very rounded midsole, designed to make walking a lot more effortless (or as Keen puts it, "feel like rolling), and great traction.
However, these may not be the best for standing all day. Don't get us wrong; they have many of the making of a great all-day-standing footwear. They have a contoured fit, great arch support, bouncy cushioning to minimize foot fatigue, a high stack height for shock absorption, and plenty of space in the toe box. Plus, the mesh upper and lining make them extremely breathable.
Sadly, its marquee feature is also not conducive to standing for hours. During testing, we constantly ended up leaning forward due to the rockered midsole, putting most of our weight on the balls of our feet instead of spreading it evenly. After a couple of hours, this took a toll on our feet, calves and ankles.
These are a great pair of walking shoes, but they're not the best if you're mostly standing all day.
Nike Motiva Walking Shoes
Nike Women's Motiva Walking Shoes
Nike
That rockered midsole makes the Nike Motiva better for walking. They're also more affordable than many of the shoes on this list, making them a great budget consideration.
$110 From $93 at Nike
From $109 at Amazon
Nike Men's Motiva Walking Shoes
Nike
With breathable uppers, a rockered midsole and good arch support, we recommend these Nikes if you need affordable footwear for all your walking needs.
$110 From $78 at Nike
$110 at Dick's Sporting Goods
The Nike Motiva seems to have the same problem as the Keen WK400 in that they're also walking shoes, which means they have a rockered midsole, making them perfect for things like power walking but also unsuitable standing all day.
Their rocking design isn't as dramatic as the Keen's and they are more flexible, which makes them the better proposition of the two for all-day standing. They also have very breathable uppers, good arch support, and a higher stack height. Plus, they're $60 cheaper than the Keens so they're a good option if you're looking for something affordable.
However, they still wouldn't be at the top of our list, especially since the deep dip at the heels won't feel comfortable for many people. That's not to mention the fact the toe box doesn't leave much room for the toes to wiggle around.
The very flexible upper did allow movement when we tested these. However, it still felt like our toes were pinned down -- we hate it when our feet and legs are restricted -- and after an hour of wearing them, our toes started to tingle, likely from poor circulation. And if you're thinking that might be due to wrong sizing, it's not.
Adidas Ultraboost 5X
Adidas Women's Ultraboost 5X
Adidas
The rounded midsole, great cushioning, flexible upper and high stack height make these shoes perfect for walking. Size up for more space in the toe box.
$180 $135 at Adidas
Adidas Men's Ultraboost 5X
adidas Men's Ultraboost 5X Running Shoes Sneaker, Dark Blue/White/Halo Silver, 6
Amazon.com
Great for walking due to its rounded midsole and great cusioning, these shoes from Adidas are available in mens' sizes too.
$180 $135 at Adidas
The Adidas Ultraboost 5X is a curious pair. These running shoes have a rounded midsole that helps with weight distribution. There's enough cushioning, especially at the heels, and a higher stack height, which helps with comfort and support. The upper is very flexible and breathable. And thanks to the Continental Rubber outsole, which Adidad designed specifically for slippery conditions, they offer a lot of grip.
However, that's not enough to convince us. There are missing elements here, elements that would have made these great for all-day wear. There's not a lot of arch support, for one, which made the balls and heels of our feet work harder. And like the Nike Motiva, it doesn't have a lot of room in the toe box, restricting our toes. For $180, that's too long of a con list.
There's also a design flaw. The upper is designed to be flexible, and we thought it would have made them a lot easier to put on like the On Cloud 5, but they're not, specifically because there's not enough give there to easily slip your feet in. Also, the laces aren't that stretchy. It's the opposite as the stretchy upper somehow makes putting them on a little messier.
Birkenstock Women's Boston Clogs
Nordstrom
If you prefer a less cushiony insole, the classic Boston Clogs from Birkenstocks are hard to match in arch support and all-day comfort.
$145 at Nordstrom
$160 at Bloomingdale's
Birkenstock Men's Boston Clogs
Birkenstock
Whether you're walking all day or need to be on your feet at work, these casual clogs will give you the arch support you need to stay comfortable.
$160 From $142 at Bloomingdale's
$160 at REI
Birkenstocks are known for having amazing arch support, and the brand's most popular clogs do not fall far from the tree. These stylish clogs, which are highly popular during the cooler fall and warmer spring months, have great arch support in all the right places so that they're not only very supportive, but they'll also feel like a nice massage.
Toribio says she often brings "an extra pair of Birkenstocks or sandals with me to work so I can slip my feet in after I am done with my shift to alleviate any pain or discomfort."
But, while these have many of the things we love about the Birkenstock Boston Soft Footbed, including a great, comfortable fit and soft uppers, these could use a bit more cushioning in the footbed, especially around the heels. We stood and walked around in these all day, and while they were comfortable, we also started to feel some aches in our heels because of the lack of cushioning.
They are cheaper than the Boston Soft Footbed, but we'd gladly pay more for better comfort.
Ugg Women's New Heights Cozy Clog
Ugg
If you want clogs with a higher stack height and a very warm exterior, these trendy Uggs are very popular among stylish waitstaff. They're super soft inside and have very bouncy insoles.
$140 at Ugg
$140 at Nordstrom
From $140 at Amazon
Uggs may be more of a winter fashion statement than what you would go for if you're looking for shoes for standing all day, but many casual dining servers wear them for comfort as well, especially in the colder months, which is why we added these and the Ugg Classic Ultra Mini Platform to our testing pool.
To be fair, Uggs are comfortable and warm, thanks to their plush, cushioned insole that contours to the shape of your foot. So, while it may take a few uses for them to shape, they'll eventually feel like they're made exactly for your feet. But that's a double-edged sword if you have issues like overpronation. Only use these when you don't have any foot or gate issues.
While there isn't good traction or much arch support, the bouncy insoles and high stack height offer a lot of shock absorption and support. Meanwhile, the light weight helps minimize foot fatigue. We stood and walked around in these for more than five hours in the office and a couple more at a Halloween event, and only felt a little fatiguing. What's more, the sizing is very accurate and we didn't need to break them in.
Because these are not designed to be breathable but to instead keep your feet nice and toasty, we recommend these for cold-weather use only.
Ugg Women's Classic Ultra Mini Platform
Ugg
A high stack height and a very cushy insole, these are great cold-weather boots to wear when it's casual day at work. They're also very stylish and cozy.
$160 at Ugg
$160 at Amazon
$160 at Nordstrom
We have similar feedback about the Ugg Classic Ultra Mini Platform as the New Heights Cozy Clog. Trendy and stylish, these are less about practicality and more about looking good. Still, Uggs are lauded for their comfort and warmth, and many people in the service industry, especially those who work at casual restaurants and cafes, love to use them. So we had to include them in our testing pool.
Just like the Ugg Classic Ultra Mini, these have foam insoles that eventually mold to the shape of your feet and a very cozy inner lining that will keep you warm during the cold months. And as they are platform shoes, they have a high stack height that should help with shock absorption -- not to mention give you a bit more height.
However, the traction could be better, and we could have used a more rounded midsole when we were walking around town in these. There's also the fact that they're a lot harder to put on. While ours were a perfect fit, we always struggled to put them on, which got annoying after a while.
Cariuma Uba
Cariuma Women's Uba
Cariuma
With that retro dad shoes vibe, these stylish sneakers from Cariuma are also surprisingly comfortable. And they have a lot of traction.
$159 at Cariuma
Cariuma Men's Uba
Cariuma
Style, comfort and vintage vibes meet in these sneakers from Carium. They're so comfortable, you can walk around them for hours without tiring.
$159 at Cariuma
The Cariuma Ubas are endearing. They're like a skater boy's take on nostalgic dad shoes, and they make us want to live in Princess-Diana-in-athleisure-inspired outfits all year long. Although the Cariuma Salvas were the ones that got their time in the sun, we loved the fit of the Ubas better as they offered a bit more room in the toe box for our toes. And just like the Salvas, these didn't require breaking in as they were comfortable to wear out of the box.
These sneakers have decently cushioned insoles, a great grip thanks to their slip-resistant rubber soles and good breathability. Plus, they're easy to put on and the lining is soft to the touch -- so much so that if you chose to go sockless, you probably would have gotten away with it blister-free. So, just like the Salvas, these would make great travel shoes.
We wouldn't recommend standing for eight hours a day every day in these, however. The lack of arch support, lower stack height and almost flat midsole means that some parts of your feet will be doing more work than others and there's less shock absorption.
Blundstone #2381 All-Terrain Clog
Blundstone #2381 Women's All-Terrain Clog
Blundstone
The clogs to wear for all types of terrain, these luxe yet rugged shoes from Blundstone are all about quality and comfort.
$210 at Blundstone
Blundstone #2381 Men's All-Terrain Clog
Blundstone
Elegant yet rugged, these are great mens' clogs to use regardless of the terrain or setting. They're also super warm and have great arch support.
$210 at Blundstone
We've only heard great things about Blundstone. The Australian brand, known for its durable and exquisitely designed leather work boots, is lauded for comfort and quality, so we were excited about testing their popular clogs.
The Blundstone #2381 All-Terrain Clogs are great and would have been the perfect clogs to wear during the colder months on more rugged terrain. The beautiful leather upper feels luxurious and the padded lining is soft enough to keep blisters at bay. These clogs also offer great arch support and a lot of grip which isn't surprising as they're made for all types of terrain. Standing in these at our desk was effortless as they offered a lot of support. And while the stack height could have been higher, their outsoles are superior to the Birkenstock Boston clogs.
Unfortunately, these have a glaring flaw that knocked them off the top spots. The combination of a spacious toe box, soft inner lining and a more rigid upper made it hard for our feet to stay in place when walking around. That easy 15-minute walk to our yoga studio was rough because these kept slipping off, and to minimize that, we had to spread our toes to try and keep them in place. When we finally made it home, our feet and shins were sore from the ordeal.
We're thinking heel inserts might offset the issue but we haven't had a chance to try that. We might eventually do it though because the Blundstone #2381 All-Terrain Clogs are too beautiful and too high-quality (not to mention, too expensive) to just sit in a corner unused.
FAQs
What shoes are good for your feet and posture while standing?
Our experts agree they must be supportive, with good arch support, cushioning, breathability and a proper fit. A lightweight pair is also best.
How do I stop my feet from hurting when I stand up all day?
Coleman suggests a few things to alleviate such symptoms. "If one is standing at work for most of the day, it's important to stretch and walk around as much as possible," he says. "It may (also be) necessary to put your feet up from time to time or wear compressive socks."
How long is too long to stand on your feet?
Based on research done by the Georgetown University School of Nursing, "risks begin to manifest for those who stand more than four hours per day. What constitutes "too much" standing can also change based on the circumstances."
Meet our experts
For this article, I consulted the following experts to gain their professional insights:
Travis Brown is a travel registered nurse with experience in various parts of the country. He is pursuing a nursing doctorate to become a psychiatric nurse practitioner. His passion is helping others, both physically and mentally. He works 12-hour weekly shifts and is usually on his feet for 10-11 hours straight. Dr. Struan Coleman is an orthopedic surgeon at the Hospital for Special Surgery (HSS) in New York City and co-founder of Motive Health. As an orthopedic surgeon specializing in sports medicine, he is always on the job. When he's not seeing patients in the office and operating at the hospital, he sometimes spends his weekends examining and treating his family and friends. For Coleman, orthopedic surgery is extremely fulfilling as patients generally do well with appropriate treatment and are motivated to get better. Quinn Collins is a fine dining server at Mastro's Ocean Club in Los Angeles. She's been serving for almost 8 years and loves making a positive impact on someone's day. As a food lover, she takes pride in being honest with her guests and ensuring they get the food they love. On busy shifts, she's typically on her feet for five to eight hours. Anika Swisher-Shukuya is a retired teacher from Southern Oregon. She taught in Watts, Crenshaw and West Sacramento for 32 years before moving to a small mountain town in Oregon where she works part-time as a substitute teacher. Back when she worked full-time, she would hit over 5K steps daily in the classroom. Josceline Toribio is a fine-dining back waiter and barback at Fleming's Prime Steakhouse and Wine Bar in Los Angeles. In the six years she has worked in the restaurant industry, she has attained experience and knowledge working as a host, busser, food runner, barback and server. She's on her feet for about five to eight per shift.
Why trust CNN Underscored
CNN Underscored editors thoroughly test all the products we cover and provide full transparency about how we test them. We have an experienced team of writers and editors who have many years of testing experience and ensure each article is carefully edited and products are properly vetted. We talk to top experts when it makes sense to ensure we are testing each product accurately and speaking about the pros and cons of each item.
This guide's writer, Michelle Rae Uy, is part of CNN Underscored's testing team. She has been testing and reviewing consumer products for over a decade. She also loves shoes, so much so that she once bought seven pairs of sneakers in three months. She recently wrote our best rain boots guide and is currently testing winter boots.