Best Sneakers For Women 2024

When it comes to comfort, it’s hard to beat the On Cloud 5. It’s an everyday shoe that offers extraordinary comfort (thanks to air pockets built inside the sole and CloudTec cushioning that adapts to each person’s foot) and the slip-on style makes it easy to get on and off, which is why so many travelers wear these sneakers to the airport. While they aren’t built for serious running, the Cloud 5’s are ideal for walking, and they look polished enough to wear to work.

Between the advanced foot-guiding system for stability, gel technology that softens landings and eco-cushioning made from 20% bio-based content, the Asics Gel-Kayano is a sneaker you can count on whether you are walking, running or sprinting. Plus, the engineered mesh upper is remarkably breathable and prevents feet from overheating.

Loved by everyone from elite runners to fashion influencers to podiatrists, the Clifton 9 is lauded for its cushioning and comfort. It’s made of breathable vegan mesh, and it has molded EVA foam in the midsole and a gusseted tongue to keep out dirt and gunk. The chunky outsole harnesses “rocker” technology that helps you push off while running or walking.

When you’re logging miles on the road, you need a padded shoe to cushion the blow each time your feet hit the pavement. The Brooks Glycerin 21 is up to the challenge with soft cushioning for extra plushness, a breathable and flexible warp knit upper and a “GuideRails” support system to keep feet stable and steady. While the shoe is cushy, it still feels fast—and it’s available in a wide width.

APL (which stands for Athletic Propulsion Labs) is a Los Angeles-based brand that was founded by twin brothers (and collegiate athletes) Adam and Ryan Goldston in 2009. Their sneaker technology was considered so groundbreaking that their Concept 1 basketball sneakers were the first shoes to be banned by the NBA for giving players an unfair advantage. The APL Techloom Phantom is an attractive, vegan, comfortable shoe made from supportive 3D Stretch TechLoom that adapts to your foot shape.

Consistently worn by both women and men as an all-around cross training winner, the Metcon blends flexibility, stability and cushioning. It has a stable base for weightlifting, but it’s also constructed with cushy, pliable foam, making it great for cardio and plyometrics. This shoe can take you from CrossFit to short runs, and its engineered mesh upper allows feet to breathe.

Lululemon is newer to the shoe game—having just started making shoes in 2022—and this bouncy, neutral shoe is a versatile option for everything from running to studio classes. Dual-foam cushioning and thoughtfully-placed pressure zones help evenly distribute impact and keep feet and joints comfy. The discreet design and serene colorways also make this a great option to transition from the gym to the street.

These vintage-looking trainers are modeled after 1970s running shoes. While they don’t have the technical features that you’ll find in the brand’s performance shoes, they’re lightweight, comfortable and have a grippy sole. Wear them when regular running shoes feel too casual, and you have a lot of walking to do.

You can’t go wrong with classic Converse Chuck Taylor All-Star Sneakers. The canvas upper is notoriously durable, and while the signature rubber toebox is more for style, it adds an extra layer of protection. Also, there’s plenty of midsole cushioning to keep feet supported when you’re on the go.

The Stan Smith earns a spot on this list due its versatility and timelessness. The pared down trio of stripes and the touch of Kelly green on the heel give them an understated look that has been iconic since the shoe first launched back in 1971.

Golden Goose practically invented the fashion sneaker with its glamorous spin on the low-cut basketball shoe. Made in Italy, distressed by hand, and featuring glittery accents, these sneakers are often paired with dresses, skirts and other formal clothing. They are expensive, but those who love them swear that they’re worth the investment.

The Nike Dunk Low launched in 1985, and has experienced a recent resurgence in popularity thanks to its bold and fashionable color combinations like Ecru Waffle Knit and Suede, Claret Croc Effect, and Green Metallic Leather. (If you prefer a more austere, all-white look, opt for the equally iconic Nike Air Force 1 ‘07.) The shoe runs a little large, so you may want to go down a size.

If you’re looking for a fashion sneaker and Golden Goose gives you sticker shock, consider the wildly popular Veja Campo, which is less than half the price. These Brazilian-made sneakers are crafted from soft leather and suede and come in a variety of colors—from basics to pastels to bold hues. They have a roomy toebox which accommodates wider feet, and the sustainable rubber outsole is sturdy and durable.

Once a shoe worn primarily by soccer players, the Samba (along with its sister shoe the Adidas Gazelle) is a now a fashion staple for both women and men. The sleek, low-profile shoe is made from soft leather and has a durable, flexible gum sole. The only downside: These cool and stylish sneakers tend to sell out fast.

Tretorn is a heritage brand that’s been around since 1891, and their new spin on the classic canvas sneaker features an EcoOrtholite insole and a sturdy, stable heel. But what really sets them apart is the retro styling and the classic, crisp colorways.

Initially introduced in 1971, this retro-inspired style adds instant cool to any outfit. It has a low profile and gummy outsole, and it’s available in both suede and leather and in a variety of colorways. Wear them with wide leg jeans, dress pants or a maxi dress.

A favorite of fashion It girls everywhere, this chalk-colored pair is both stylish and a utility shoe. Originally created as a court shoe in the ’80s, it has lightweight EVA midsole cushioning and a durable rubber outsole so you can comfortably log lots of miles commuting, traveling or running errands—and looking good while doing it.

Combining the comfort of a sneaker with the slip-on ease of a loafer, the Vince Blair is a top pick for work and travel. The perforated leather lets feet breathe (which is especially important in sweltering summer months) and the sleek styling and wide range of colors make them one of the most versatile sneakers on this list.

Sneakers are now an accepted part of the business casual look, but you don’t want to wear the same shoes to the office that you wear to the gym. The Cole Haan Grandpro Topspin is polished and professional-looking, and offers features like a cushioned Grandfoam footbed and a sturdy EVA midsole, which makes them comfortable for commuting.

With its streamlined shape and neutral color options, the Wolf And Shepard Cruise Lace-Up is work-appropriate and stylish. The Italian leather upper has a removable foam footbed for comfort, a luxurious calfskin lining and a modern-looking TPU (thermoplastic polyurethane) sole that’s both flexible and durable.

Made from lightweight, breathable eucalyptus tree fiber and padded with SweetFoam midsole cushioning (derived from Brazillian sugarcane), the Allbirds Tree Runner is popular for commuters and CEOs. Don’t be afraid to buy them in white—if they get dirty, you can just toss them in the washing machine.

The knitted-from-plastic-bottles fabric of these shoes is bendy, soft and breathable, so it flexes with your foot while you move and doesn’t cause rubbing. The plush footbed and durable rubber outsole keep you comfy whether you’re standing or commuting, and you can even throw this pair in the wash for a quick refresh.

Originally released as a skate shoe in 1979, this easy-on, easy-off pair is the original street-style pick. It has double goring and a padded collar for comfort and a grippy waffle sole for traction on slick surfaces. Think of these as a convenient dress-up or dress-down pair.

This looks like a lace-up shoe, but it’s also a slip on. It has a spring back heel that allows you to slide your foot into place—no stomping required—and it snaps back into place for a secure fit. The blend of nylon, leather and suede upper and sawtooth pattern rubber sole give these a vintage feel. Bonus: They also have removable and washable insoles.

It can be tricky to get the right fit in a slip-on, but Ryka’s shoes are made specifically for women’s feet—they’re narrow through the heel and wider through the forefoot to allow toes room to splay. This pair has a stretchy lacing system across the bridge of your foot so you can get them on easily, but they also stay on securely. Reviewers rave about how comfy these are, too. They come in six go-with-everything neutrals.

Kuru shoes are notorious for their heel cushioning, so if you’re looking for a supportive slip-on for walking or everyday, this style is a lightweight option. The flexible knit upper has a sock-like feel—to prevent sensitive pressure spots—and it’s breathable so you get good airflow throughout the day.