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.
Nike ACG Mountain Fly Low
Even if you have no intention of wearing them on the mountain path, sneakers like this are made to be worn for hours and in testing conditions. That means they're usually comfortable as hell. Plush React foam combines with Vaporfly technology on the Mountain Fly to create unbelievable comfort in any condition.
Mountain Fly Low
Nike ACG
New Balance 2002RI
New Balance, in general, is at the crest of the dad sneaker trend, but its reputation for comfort is not a passing fad. The recently-relaunched New Balance 2002 combines a soft, high-quality leather upper with a sole unit taken from the 860v2, promising sustained comfort. To understand just how comfortable the 2002 is, you need to know that the sneaker was developed in 2010 as a “boss-level” sneaker, designed to sit on the feet of CEOs and the like. No expense was spared, which resulted in a hefty price tag a decade ago. Luckily for you, this ultra-comfortable sneaker is available for much less than its original $250 price.
ML2002RI
New Balance
adidas Ultraboost 21
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 21. 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 21
adidas
On Cloudnova Z5
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 Cloudnova Z5 is the brand's latest addition to its Performance All Day subcategory, which blends On’s performance know-how with a more stylish and street-ready aesthetic. The simple, yet highly comfortable sneaker features a sleek upper with volt-colored accents running across it.
Cloudnova Z5
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 foresee 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 Craft 2
Nike
adidas YEEZY Foam Runner
One of the newest and most memorable YEEZY iterations, the adidas Originals YEEZY Foam Runner 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 its sustainable algae upper and the holes that offer supreme breathability. Sometimes YEEZYs aren’t just all about the hype.
YEEZY Foam Runner 'Mineral Blue'
adidas
HOKA ONE ONE Clifton 8
If there’s one thing HOKA ONE ONE is known for, it’s its sneakers’ huge midsoles, which make them some of the most comfortable sneakers around. The brand’s Clifton series of running shoes — beloved due to their lightweight build and soft cushioning — is just received another update, and the Clifton 8 is as comfy as they come. The sneaker’s engineered mesh upper and new midsole add to the lightweight characteristics of the shoe. While built for performance, the Clifton 8 features a relatively subdued design when compared to other HOKA models, which lends itself nicely to the athleisure trend of the past few years.
Clifton 8
HOKA One One
ASICS GEL-Kayano 14
While ASICS’ Novablast above represents the brand’s modern-day foray into the world of ultra-comfortable sneakers, the Japanese brand also has some comfy cozy kicks from back in the day. One such is the GEL-Kayano 14, which exists as more of a lifestyle shoe today. Thanks to its mixed-material upper and GEL-infused sole unit, the sneaker balances comfort with durability.
Gel Kayano 14
ASICS
Reebok Zig 3D Hydro Storm
One of Reebok’s most comfortable (and stylish) sneakers is the Zig 3D Hydro Storm. The name 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 3D Storm Hydro
Reebok
Crocs Classic Clog
The Crocs Classic Clog is not the sexiest option on this list, but it’s probably one of the most comfortable. Similar to the YEEZY Foam Runner, the Crocs Clog is made out of one rubber and can be slipped into with or without socks. In recent years, the brand has turned itself from meme to big-time collaborator, tapping the likes of Justin Bieber, Post Malone, ALIFE, and more for high-profile projects.
Classic Clog
Crocs
Saucony Peregrine 11 ST
Sneakerheads are probably well-versed in Saucony’s lifestyle and heritage line, however, its a trail shoe that makes our list. The Peregrine 11 ST is equipped with PWRRUN cushioning, which provides a responsive feel. That means it may not be the softest ride, but it remains comfortable over rugged surfaces. If you’re someone who’s outdoors a lot, the debris-resistant upper is also a plus.
Peregrine 11 ST
Saucony
New Balance 990v3
Pretty much every New Balance sneaker is comfortable, so it was hard to settle on just one sneaker for this list. Ultimately, we decided to go for one pair of lifestyle sneakers and one pair of performance sneakers (below). The New Balance 992 enjoyed a big year last year, the 991 is celebrating its anniversary in 2021, but it’s the 990v3 that will steal the show over the next 12 months. Collaborations with Bodega, Joe FreshGoods, and Kith are just a few of the projects we’re excited about. The fact that the sneaker is also one of the most comfortable on the market — and a great walking shoe — is almost secondary.
990v3 Made In USA 'Genesis'
New Balance x KITH
New Balance Fresh Foam 880v11
New Balance Fresh Foam is the brand’s premier performance running technology. It’s soft as clouds and looks interesting too. What sets New Balance’s performance shoes apart from its competitors is the rounded heel at the back, which cradles your Achilles and prevents the wearer from getting blisters. The engineered mesh upper adds to the overall comfort thanks to its breathability and lightweight design.
Fresh Foam 880v11
New Balance
Salomon Phantasm
Salomon sneakers are usually comfortable, yet sturdy trail beasts. The Phantasm, however, is more of a street running model that goes all-out when it comes to comfort. It’s incredibly lightweight — when you slip it on you’ll be tempted to double-check that you’ve even got something on your feet — and the overall curved geometry of the shoe gives the sensation that you're floating over the ground as opposed to barreling down with each step.
S/Lab Phantasm
Salomon
In case you were wondering why we wear different sizes across different models and brands, watch the video below.
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