Top rated womens shoes for standing all day

Asics GT-2000 Sneaker snagged our top spot for comfort.

Updated on September 6, 2022

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The right footwear can make or break your day, whether you're heading to the gym, running errands, or walking around and exploring. And if you're someone standing on their feet all day for work or school, then you know that not every style is made to withstand your grueling shifts or classes, which can result in major discomfort, strain, and fatigue. That's why it's important to consult the pros and lean on expert insights to find the best sneakers for standing all day.

To create this list, Shape researched the best-selling shoes, considered reviews, and made our initial selections. We then interviewed and consulted with a panel of podiatrists to ensure that these were the ideal options for a variety of lifestyle and foot needs. We selected the Asics GT-2000 Sneaker as our best overall choice, thanks to its cushioning and stability.

Here are the best sneakers for standing all day.

Our Top Picks

Best Overall: Asics GT-2000 Sneaker
Best Slip-Ons: Merrell Work Jungle Moc AC + Pro Sneaker
Best for Wide Feet: New Balance Fresh Foam 1080v11 Running Shoe
Best for Flat Feet: Hoka One One Bondi 8 Running Shoe
Best for High Arches: Brooks Ghost Running Shoe
Best for Plantar Fasciitis: Asics Gel-Nimbus 23 Running Sneaker
Best Everyday: Mephisto Rebecca Perforated Sneaker
Best Non-Slip: New Balance WID626v2 Work Sneaker
Most Durable: New Balance 608 V5 Casual Comfort Cross Trainer
Best Breathable: Allbirds Tree Dashers Running Sneaker

Best Overall: Asics GT-2000 Sneaker

Also available at Asics

Why We Like It: Its heel-to-toe cushioning, stabilizing, durable, and anatomical design.

It's Worth Noting: These are only available in standard width.

One of New York City-based podiatrist Hillary Brenner's, D.P.M. favorite brands for arch support, Asics deliver the proper cushioning, stability, breathability, and durability to keep your feet comfortable from clock in to clock out. With the GT-2000 Sneaker, your foot is secure and supported thanks to thoughtful details such as its Ortholite sockliner and padded heel, which also shifts your body mass forward, reducing the strain on the lower limbs. It also adheres to your foot's natural gait pattern and cushions your step to promote shock absorption.

• Sizes: 5-13
• Colors: 13

Best Slip-Ons: Merrell Work Jungle Moc AC + Pro Sneaker

Also available at Amazon

Why We Like It: The slip-resistant outsole, securely fitting design, and breathable mesh lining.

It's Worth Noting: These are only sold in black.

Fans of slip-on sneakers that are constantly on their feet need a style like the Merrell Work Jungle Moc AC+ Pro Sneaker, which has a contoured footbed, EVA midsole, and cushioned outsole to provide hours of comfort. "I have several patients that work in the food industry," New York City-based podiatrist ​​Casey Ann Pidich, DPM, begins. "I've recommended this shoe to them. Not only is it non-skid for slick work environments, but it's also supportive and comfortable for standing all day." Additionally, it's made from a durable-yet-breathable leather material and is designed to repel odors.

• Sizes: 5-11
• Colors: 1

Best for Wide Feet: New Balance Fresh Foam 1080v11 Running Shoe

Also available at Zappos

Why We Like It: It has a spacious toe box and flexible mesh upper.

It's Worth Noting: The cushion is best for linear movement and offers less support for side to side motions.

Thanks to its midsole cushioning, supportive heel, and springy outsole, the New Balance Fresh Foam 1080v11 Running Shoe is able to mold to your foot's unique shape and deliver all-day comfort. Pidich is a fan of this style because it's available in wide and extra-wide sizes. "Not only do our feet need arch support, but they also expand and swell throughout the day," she adds. "A shoe that feels snug in the morning might hurt at the end of a long work shift. It has a mesh fabric that will comfortably fit over a bunion, hammertoe, or a tailor bunion." (Psst, if you're into cycling, check out these cycling shoes for wide feet.)

• Sizes: 5-11 (narrow, standard, wide, extra-wide)
• Colors: 20

Best for Flat Feet: Hoka One One Bondi 8 Running Shoe

Also available at REI

Why We Like It: The show has additional arch support and cushioning, plus an ankle-supporting design.

It's Worth Noting: The design of this shoe makes feet appear wider and longer than other styles.

"The Hoka One One Bondi 7 Running Shoe is ideal for flat feet," Pidich explains. "If you have flat feet, your foot arch disappears when you stand up. It's also more challenging to propel yourself forward. This sneaker will offer the best foot arch support for all-day standing." The shoe's memory foam cradles your heel and ankle for optimal stability and support as its EVA molded midsole provides energizing cushioning. (Related: How to Find the Best Workout Shoes for Flat Feet.)

• Sizes: 5-12 (standard, wide)
• Colors: 4

Best for High Arches: Brooks Ghost Running Shoe

Also available at DSW

Why We Like It: Its arch-mimicking midsole, secure lace-up closure, flexible construction, and breathable mesh fabric.

It's Worth Noting: Ghost fans mentioned the toe box feeling narrower on the newest model.

Due to its responsive BioMoGo DNA foam, the Brooks Ghost Running Shoe offers plush midsole cushioning from the heel to the forefoot so it can conform and support high arches. Strategically-placed grooves encourage the foot's natural movement by providing additional flexibility. "These shoes offer plush cushioning that can withstand long hours of standing on hard surfaces," Chanel Perkins, DPM, explains. "This style is durable, so it won't quickly wear out. It's also lightweight so it doesn't feel like your feet are in cinder blocks all day." (For even more arch support, check out these editor-approved insoles from Amazon.)

• Sizes: 5-13 (narrow, standard, wide)
• Colors: 28

Best for Plantar Fasciitis: Asics Gel-Nimbus 23 Running Sneaker

Also available at Zappos

Why We Like It: It was designed for anyone with plantar fasciitis symptoms, or requires additional arch support and cushioning in the heels.

It's Worth Noting: This is an extremely cushy shoe that may not be to everyone's preference.

Designed to reduce arch pressure, the Asics Gel-Nimbus 23 Running Sneaker utilizes the bounce and responsiveness of its FlyteFoam technology midsole to cushion the underfoot. "Asics Gel-Nimbus shoes are my personal favorite for plantar fasciitis," raves Pidich. "They contain extra cushioning and added support around the arch." They also absorb shock in the heel with their gel panels. Plus, the rounded toe shape creates a spacious toe box for those with wide feet.

• Sizes: 5-13
• Colors: 11

Best Everyday: Mephisto Rebecca Perforated Sneaker

Also available at Mephisto

Why We Like It: It has a shock-absorbing outsole, supportive footbed, and comfortable cushioning.

It's Worth Noting: These run small — order a half size up.

Another trusted brand from Brenner, Mephisto shoes — which she says are supportive across the board — cater to not only the feet, but also to the legs and back, as well. Those looking for a shoe that's stylish for everyday wear but doesn't sacrifice comfort will find the Mephisto Rebecca Perforated Sneaker to their liking. It's made with the brand's Soft Air footbed to ensure arch support and has a removable anatomical insole for added comfort. The style's rubber outsole aids in shock absorption, while the leather upper enhances its durability. (Check out more comfortable everyday sneakers to add to your wardrobe.)

• Sizes: 5.5-11
• Colors: 1

Best Non-Slip: New Balance WID626v2 Work Sneaker

Also available at Zappos

Why We Like It: Healthcare workers especially will love the slip-resistant outsole with traction for slick floors.

It's Worth Noting: These are more utilitarian than stylish.

Designed with tired feet in mind, the New Balance WID626v2 Work Sneaker (Brenner is a fan of New Balance shoes, in general, for their wide toe boxes) keeps your foot securely in place with its supportive leather upper, tractioned lug outsole, and stabilizing insert. Together with its soft textile lining, removable foam insole, contoured midsole, and padded tongue, you're given the perfect amount of stability, cushioning, and support for every stride. The shoe's rubber exterior also makes it resistant to markings, oil, and slipping. (Pssst, these stylish trail sneakers have some pretty impressive traction, too.)

• Sizes: 5-13 (standard, wide, extra wide)
• Colors: 3

Most Durable: New Balance 608 V5 Casual Comfort Cross Trainer

Why We Like It: Its extra-cushioned design, shock-absorbing heel pad, and waterproof exterior is great for anyone who puts their shoes to work.

It's Worth Noting: Due to the plushy foam, these have a higher lift.

Another pick from the podiatrist-trusted brand, the New Balance 608 V5 Casual Comfort Cross Trainer is cushioned in all the right places to ensure all-day support. "This brand is a favorite in the podiatry community," Perkins says. "With their all-around supportive structure, these shoes are definitely designed to keep you on your feet all day long. The sole is also extra-cushioned for maximum comfort." Centered with a memory foam insert, the sneaker conforms to your foot and absorbs shock with its compression-resistant heel crash pad. On the outside, its flexible outsole guarantees comfort and its leather-rubber exterior repels water and stains. According to Amazon shoppers, the style has a wide toe box and supports wearers with plantar fasciitis.

• Sizes: 5-12 (narrow, standard, wide)
• Colors: 5

Best Breathable: Allbirds Tree Dashers Running Sneaker

Also available at Allbirds

Why We Like It: These are ideal for anyone with sweaty feet that are looking for a stylish-yet-supportive sneaker.

It's Worth Noting: These have a longer breaking in period than some shoes, start with short walks until your feet get used to the shoes.

The Allbirds Tree Dashers Running Sneaker features a supportive dual-density midsole and is designed to flex with your foot, promoting its natural movement while providing cushioning where needed. Additionally, this lightweight and airy sneaker wicks away sweat and minimizes odor. "Shoes in this brand are not only sustainable, but they're also extremely comfortable," Perkins shares. "The upper material is breathable, so you can wear them all day without worrying about sweaty feet. The midsole is supportive but flexible to conform to your foot movements." (Related: Allbirds Just Launched a Really Cute Activewear Line.)

• Sizes: 5-11
• Colors: 10

How We Selected

We began creating this list of the best sneakers for standing all day by searching the internet for the best-sellers from top (or even lesser known) brands. We read reviews, both positive and negative, and made a list. Then we tapped the experts on feet — podiatrists — to weigh in and give advice on what to look for. From their insight, we made our final selections and gave further details on what kind of person or foot type would be best for each shoe.

What to Know About Sneakers for Standing All Day

Arch Support

Regardless of your sense of style or profession, Brenner lists arch support as the most important factor to consider when shopping for supportive sneakers to stand in all day. "You can look for this in the thickness in the arch," she says. "The thicker the arch, the more supportive."

Unsupportive sneaker wearers also run the risk of developing other ailments such as plantar fasciitis and heel spurs. If you're someone with hammertoes and bunions, Brenner warns that the pain associated with these conditions can become worse. Not to mention that wearing the wrong shoes for an extended period of time can affect other parts of your body, leading to arthritis, ankle sprains, and pain in the knees, hips, and back. "This usually occurs in shoes that don't have arch support," says Brenner. "Pain is an indicator of when it is time to get a new pair of shoes. You can also check the bottom of the shoe to see if the treads are worn out."

Shoe Design

From there, she notes that you'll want to ensure your chosen sneaker has a wide toe box with a mesh material and a thick chunky heel: "If the toe box is too narrow, there isn't support in the arch of the shoe; this is also true if the heel is too thin." Also worth noting: To ensure all-day comfort, Brenner recommends investing in orthotics for extra support and cushion. Her favorite insoles are the Superfeet Orthotic Insert and the Powerstep Pinnacle Arch Support Insoles.

Material and Fit

As for what not to buy, Brenner adds, "Avoid a shoe with a hard material that goes over bony prominences. Make sure the shoe is semi-rigid and not too flexible." Instead, you'll want to check for an arch that is thick, a wide chunky heel, and make sure you can't bend the shoe in half, she adds. To really ensure a perfect fit, Brenner recommends trying on the shoe towards the end of the day "when your feet are true to size" and having feet measured for width and size.

FAQs

What features to look for in sneakers for standing all day?

After a long day of being on your feet, the last thing you want to deal with is pain. But according to Brenner, there can be some serious consequences to wearing sneakers with underwhelming support levels. "It's important to wear supportive sneakers to allow your feet to have proper shock absorption and place your skeletal system in a proper alignment," explains Brenner. "For instance, if you don't have supportive shoes, your center of gravity is thrown off. When this happens you put extra pressure on your back, knees, [and] hips, and overwork muscles, tendons, and ligaments."

Are running sneakers good for standing all day?

The short answer is maybe. While running shoes are designed with support in mind, there may be features that are less suitable for long periods of standing — level of comfort, rigidity (running shoes are often more flexible), as well as ankle or foot support. Running shoes also have shock absorption to minimize the impact of the foot fitting the ground at higher speeds, which is less important for standing.

Features such as a higher heel, more flexibility, and more forefoot cushioning may be unnecessary for walking or standing. Some running shoes make great shoes for standing, such as the Asics GT 2000, however, others may find a walking or other type of sneaker is best suited for their feet and their daily needs. Either way it's important to remember that if you are a runner, your running shoes should be kept for running and your standing shoes reserved for standing (even if you use a similar model for both use cases).

Why Trust Shape

Shannon Bauer is a Senior Commerce Editor for Shape with seven years of experience in the beauty and wellness industry. With a background in fashion design, she is well-versed in the materials and design of sneakers, and as an active individual herself, has tested many of the options on the market. Beyond Bauer's personal knowledge, she completed research on all of the products, read reviews, considered the various needs, and consulted experts to create this list. The podiatrists who weighed in are also experts in their field and knowledgeable about sneakers for standing all day. The podiatrists also gave advice on what to look for in a sneaker to ensure your health and safety. These 10 sneakers for standing all day are the best on the market.