Sneakers are many things to many people — from professional athletes who need the latest tech to the sneakerhead who stacks boxes high just to have a few pairs on ice. But one defining aspect is that they are the most comfortable shoes in a field full of uncomfortable footwear.
But finding a sneaker that stays secure without being overly tight, offers all-day support that won’t fade, and doesn’t feel like a sweatbox is not an easy task. Not to mention, our feet contain about one-quarter of all the bones in the human body, and arch height, foot width, and pressure points vary wildly. Point being: not every sneaker will be comfortable for every person.
With that in mind, however, we’ve compiled a list of some of the most comfortable shoes on the market that you should consider picking up right now. From New Balance and adidas to the most comfortable Nike shoes on the market. Scroll on for a selection your feet will thank you for.
adidas ZX 2k 4D
The adidas ZX 2k 4D is the German brand’s latest 4D-equipped sneaker. The midsole is highly responsive and adidas’ best-in-class when it comes to comfort. The synthetic material upper also adds to the overall comfort of the shoe.
ZX 2K 4D
adidas
Salomon XT-Wings 2 Advanced Sneakers
Salomon has had a year to remember and the shoe that led the pack was the Salomon XT-Wings 2 Advanced Sneaker. A sleek, taped upper is complete with toggled lace closure and some of the best colorways in recent memory while the rugged outsole positions this shoe firmly within the on-trend trail sneaker conversation.
adidas Ultraboost 4.0 DNA
The adidas Ultraboost was already one of the most comfortable sneakers on the market when it first dropped in 2014. In 2019 the silhouette got an update, making it even more comfortable. And, just when we thought adidas wouldn’t — no, couldn’t go any further — the German sportswear giant unveiled the Ultraboost DNA. This iteration features an advanced Primeknit upper with Tailored Fiber Placement technology, as well as an optimized Boost midsole for ultimate comfort. It’s hard to believe, but you wouldn’t be making a mistake swapping your OG Ultraboosts for a pair of DNAs.
Ultraboost 4.0 DNA
adidas
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Nike Pegasus Trail 2 GORE-TEX
Nike weighs in on the hiking trend with this hard-wearing update of the Pegasus. The original lightweight runner gets a rugged contemporary update with GORE-TEX uppers for waterproofing and an engineered midsole for optimum comfort over testing terrain.
Pegasus Trail 2 GORE-TEX
Nike
New Balance 990v5
New Balance, in general, is at the crest of the dad sneaker trend, but its reputation for comfort is not a passing fad. The 990's firm rubber midsole is supportive and props your heels up. A soft encapsulated EVA insert provides cushioning and the mesh panels on the upper keep things breathable. They might look like they were made for chubby white guys, but that’s worth the sacrifice.
990v5
New Balance
On Cloud X Running Trainers
Swiss sportswear brand On is known in running circles for its CloudTec cushioning, which is heralded as one of the best on the market. The Cloud X is the brand's stylish addition to the booming running sneaker market. A taped, paneled upper provides protection against the elements and, combined with the sole unit, results in one of the comfiest and most durable runners on the market.
Cloud X Running Trainers
On
ASICS Novablast Sneakers
ASICS has been doing its functional thing for ages now, but as the world of style turns closer and closer to the engineered, performance designs that brand like ASICS have been pumping out for years, these brands take on a new life. With n diminished comfort or functionality, silhouettes like the ASICS Novablast have hit the big time in 2020 and we forsee a strong few years in this arena.
Novablast Sneakers
ASICS
Nike Air Force 1
The Nike Air Force 1 is one of the most recognizable sneakers in the game and, thankfully, one of the most comfortable Nike shoes as well. The comfort fresh out of the box is questionable, but after a couple of wears, it’s undeniable. The substantial sole doesn’t degrade and contains a hidden Air pocket for all-day comfort. While they’re a bit on the heavier side, they aren’t so clunky they become obstructive. For close to $100, you can’t ask for much more.
Air Force 1 '07
Nike
Nike Air Max 270 React ENG
The Nike Air Max 270 React ENG was released not too long ago, making it one of the freshest kicks on our list. As well as being ultra-eye-catching due to its waved, multi-fabric upper, it is also ultra-comfortable. The 270-degree Air unit within the sole takes the comfort of this shoe to a new level.
Air Max 270 React ENG
Nike
adidas Originals YEEZY 700 V3 'Arzareth'
One of the newest and most memorable YEEZY iterations, the adidas Originals YEEZY 700 V3 in the Arzareth colorway is a definite eye-catcher. In typical 'Ye style, it looks set for space-age future, but it’s also one of the most comfortable shoes YEEZY has to offer thanks to a heavily supported Primeknit upper. Sometimes YEEZYs aren’t just all about the hype.
YEEZY 700 V3 'Arzareth'
adidas Originals
ASICS x END. Gel Lyte 3
ASICS' Gel Lyte 3 silhouette is one of the most memorable on the market. With a unique split-tongue construction, it's also one of the most comfortable, offering a good range of movement for the ankle. A combination of materials, from perforated nubuck to suede and leather make this pastel collaboration with END. clothing a winner in our books.
Gel Lyte 3
ASICS x END.
ASICS GEL-Quantum 360 5
As the name suggests, the new design makes use of ASICS’ ultra-comfortable 360° GEL Cushioning Technology, guaranteeing the wearer a smooth heel-to-toe transition whether they’re walking or running. The technical qualities carry through to the upper, which is constructed in mesh and jacquard using a progressive vacuuming method that requires no stitching.
GEL-Quantum 360 5
ASICS
Reebok Zig Kinetica
The name of the sneaker comes from its distinctive zigzag silhouette, which is intentional. The shape and the sole optimize energy return and use a three-part system to elevate performance. Floatride Fuel provides an everyday cushiony feel, the Zig Energy Shell uses and returns kinetic energy, while the Zig Energy Bands make the outsole expand and contract in a super responsive way.
Zig Kinetica
Reebok
In case you were wondering why we wear different sizes across different models and brands, watch the video below.
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