Shopping·9 min read

The Best, Comfiest Commuting Shoes

comfortable shoes
Design: theSkimm | Photo: J.Crew, Sam Edelman, Loeffler Randall, DSW, FitFlop
September 8, 2024

Products you buy through our links may earn us a commission. Oh, and if something's out of stock, oops, it was there (and all prices were accurate) at time of publication.

When it comes to commuting, our editors personally struggle with finding shoes that are comfortable without looking…well, ugly. In honor of Fashion You’ll Actually Wear Week, we’ve pulled together a list of 15 pairs that are commuter-friendly without compromising your personal style. With these, you can forget about rubbing, blisters, or having to do a quick shoe swap a block away from the office.

Looking for more affordable, stylish clothes? Here’s what to wear when working, traveling, playing, and expecting.

DSW

The ultimate pair of white sneakers…

This Dr. Scholl’s pair have been viral bestsellers for months on end — and with good reason. We can attest that they’re sleek, can be sneakily worn with longer trousers, and even look good when paired with dresses. There's a slight platform which makes them feel a little more dressed up and the cushion-y soft insoles mean they won’t rub uncomfortably. Plus, the price is unbeatable. ($69.96, DSW)

Buy it
Nordstrom

A pair of Mary Janes that are worth the splurge…

Our editor can attest that these are some of the most comfortable flats she owns. They’re made of a buttery-soft leather and a nonirritating elastic band. They come in countless colors, but we love the red for a classic added pop of color. Our editor wears hers with everything from trousers to her go-to pair of jeans. They’re ideal if you travel for work since they lay flat when packed. ($250, Nordstrom)

Buy it
Shopbop

A pair of black flats with a twist…

These Schutz flats have been a bestseller amongst Skimm’rs for a while now. Sometimes, a basic black flat can feel boring, but we love how different this pair is thanks to the woven detailing and square toe. ($138, Shopbop)

Buy it
Madewell

A lug sole loafer that’s actually wearable…

Let’s face it: The lug sole trend can feel intimidating because some soles are simply too chunky and hard to style. This pair from Madewell is an attainable way to try out the trend as the sole is high, but not too high. Pair them with black jeans and a sweater for a casual office look. ($158, Madewell)

Buy it
Steve Madden

Two-tone, strappy flats…

These are so chic your coworkers would never know they’re just shy of $45. They have a low block heel, an almond toe, and are great for those days where you want the look of a heel but really want to wear flats. ($39.99+, Steve Madden)

Buy it
J.Crew

Some sandals that are office-appropriate…

If you’re skeptical about wearing sandals to the office, you need these. The sole is a little bit thicker so they are more substantial and the criss-cross detailing provides a lot of coverage. Plus, the gold hardware and snake-embossed leather dresses them up. These would be perfect with a white dress. ($204.99, J. Crew)

Buy it
J.Crew

A pair of mesh flats everyone will be asking about…

Aside from being comfortable commuting shoes, these are one of the most unique pairs we’ve seen. They come in both black and white and even have a removable chain ankle strap. Whether you’re itching to try the whole mesh shoe trend or want to change up your shoe rotation, these are a must. Also if you’re a bride, these would be fun for upcoming events. ($116.50, J.Crew)

Buy it
Everlane

A classic mule silhouette…

This style is tried, true, and goes with everything. They’re made of Everlane’s breathable ReKnit fabric to keep your feet securely in place, but comfortable due to its stretch. These are definitely walkable; the heel is only 2 inches and they have a cushioned insole. ($118, Everlane)

Buy it
Sam Edelman

A pair of ankle boots sitting in our carts…

You can’t go wrong with a pair of boots from Sam Edelman. Our editors have been fans of the brand for years for their quality and affordable price point. These heeled booties are a little over 2.5 inches and have a zippered closure. The pointed toe will make casual outfits feel trendier and dressier ones even more elevated. ($170, Sam Edelman)

Buy it
Madewell

Sandals that look more expensive than they are…

One of our editors has had a pair of sandals from Madewell that have lasted for five years (and counting) and they too were under $70. If there’s one thing to stock up on from this list, it’s these asymmetrical sandals. They’ll look incredible with kick-flare trousers or a midi skirt. Plus, they’ll last for years to come…so with that in mind, they’re practically free? ($54.99, Madewell)

Buy it
FitFlop

Leather clogs you can wear to the office…

One editor has been wanting to splurge on Birkenstock Bostons, but can’t get behind it because of how casual they are. These leather mules from FlipFlop are a noteworthy swap as they have the same feel, but are definitely dressy enough for the office. They’re made of slip-resistant rubber, have bouncy cushioning, and a midsole that’ll keep you stable. You’ll get way more wear out of these (even though they’re the same price as the Birkenstocks). ($160, FitFlop)

Buy it
Steve Madden

Loafer mules for the blister-prone…

No matter how many bandages you keep in your bag, some are more blister-prone than others. If that’s you, backless shoes are the best option. This pair from Steve Madden look eerily similar to that designer pair, at a fraction of the cost. They even come in a camel suede, which we have our eyes on for fall. ($69.95, Steve Madden)

Buy it
Steve Madden

Loafer mules for the blister-prone…

Maybe your basic shoe line-up is complete, and now you’re looking to buy a couple of statement pairs. Allow us to suggest this distressed pair. They have a pointed toe and are covered in buckles and grommets. Wear them from the office straight to dinner. ($99.95, Steve Madden)

Buy it
Madewell

A no-frills pair of sandals…

These have a simple design, but will go with pretty much everything. They’re made of 100% leather and have a molded footbed. Our editor loves them for the days when she can’t decide which shoes go best with her outfit. These always win. ($82.99, Madewell)

Buy it
FitFlop

What we’re calling the next “it” sneaker…

Yes, the Dr. Scholl’s sneakers are all the rage right now, but we love how minimal this pair from FitFlop is. Not to mention, it has the same cult-favorite cushioning along the footbed and flex lines along the sole for added mobility. Our editor loves her Dr. Scholl’s so much that she’s going to give these a go. ($110, FitFlop)

Buy it

Live Smarter

Sign up for the Daily Skimm email newsletter. Delivered to your inbox every morning and prepares you for your day in minutes.

fbtwitteremail