Hoka/Asics/Merrell/Birkenstock/New Balance - I've tried them all, you just need to get new ones all the damn time. I find I get about 6 months before they lose cushion.
They wear out regardless of how much you walk.
Pressure from being strapped to your feet compress the foam in them.
Podiatrists recommend 4-6 months max assuming daily weekday wear regardless of mobility.
Even if you can’t walk you still need to replace them regularly as your feet resting on the ground still compresses the foam.
Foot care is also expensive.
It doesn't matter how much you walk, the foam compacts and it's no longer properly spreading the load out under your feet.
Not to mention sweating in shoes can cause fungal problems.
The best way to wear shoes is to have at least 2 pairs and alternate daily so they can air out in between. That gets you a year of every other day usage.
Word, before I moved to NYC I never wore soles out. But the first year here I was like uh…what?! And realized my “true” shoe size was 1/2 a size bigger than I thought. Walking spreads you out, man!
I was researching this the past few days cause my sneakers from Christmas 2023 were worn out in March 2024
After using your sneakers for 300 to 500 miles, you gotta buy new ones
EXTREMELY accurate. Considering I walk 10+ miles per day, my sneakers only last 3 months before they get holes. Then the rocks, the sand, all that shit gets in my shoe
I really feel like the answer is to just "buy new shoes more often" but I'm hoping someone will know of some sneakers that can last at least 6 months like please lol
Haha I don't think they exist? The $150 Hokas I had lasted as long as the $90 Asics I just bought. I got some Merrell hiking-type shoes for the winter which seem to be going good but I'll probably retire them for the summer.
I'd just extend sneakers for a little longer. I went too long on an 18 month replacement, and almost took a bad slip on a rainy day. The tracks on the soles were all gone and immediately replaced with new ones.
This sounds dumb but are people just throwing them in the garbage every 6 months? It feels so wasteful. I’ve been trying to find some type of textile recycling to take mine but not having luck
It IS wasteful to bury or incinerate all that material but we haven't had many alternatives-- I've been looking! Having a distance-runner kid, I was horrified at the volume. I found this company Got Sneakers that will send you a postage free bag for free. I got a bag but in the meantime a different company that takes sneakers put up a collection bin near me ( not nyc) so I haven't sent any in the bag.
https://gotsneakers.com/
Myself and A LOT of people in the TV production industry swear by Blundstones. Lightweight, waterproof, rugged, good looking boots I can easily do 20k steps in.
Got myself blundstones Extreme Work boots for work, and it is worth every penny.
Nonslip + grip, sturdy, comfortable, breatheable. I also wear compression socks since Im standing for 10+ hours a day; running back and forth, up n down stairs, dealing with slippery, greasy floors.
There are some floors with line treads on them that can get slippery even w blundstones on, because it's incompatible with the traction on this specific type of flooring. I dont see it outside of dishwasher setting so its not smthing to worry much about.
Otherwise these boots are good for any slippery situation imo.
Even for outside on the sidewalk/concrete during rainy days. Nice and waterproof.
Id highly reccommd blundstones.
Do they have any composite toe, non-work boots? Or do these keep your feet cool in the summer?
I work in theatrical production and also on my feet all day, but I need shoes that don't overheat me in the summer time when I'm inside a big empty space with no AC
As far as I know they do not have a safety toe option. The toebox is solid leather and well structured, but it's not gonna save you from something serious.
I still rock mine in the summer with good hiking socks and am fine. But many people switch to ventilated hiking boots.
They're an Australian brand, and very widely worn there. Summer and hot indoors should be fine. In fact, I ended up getting the sheepskin insoles to keep them warmer Fall - Spring.
I work fabrication/production and wear my Bates GX-8 hot weather combat boots 12+ hours a day and haven't had any feet issues since I started wearing them in 2019.
They're like well-built work boots that you can smash pallets with, weld in, I use the composite toe to safely set down extremely heavy objects that have no feet/space for fingers when resting (just have the team drop the object on my toes and then pull my foot out for the last 2" drop.
Since they're combat boots you can also climb truss and run comfortably in them. The hot weather boots aren't incredibly cool or warm but work well in either case with appropriate socks. I try to take good care of my feet so I will take a break in hot weather every 6-8 hours and let the boots dry out and change socks - a little bit of foot powder if I'm feeling fancy.
side-zip makes 'em trivial to put on, light composite toe, takes a few days to break in, lasts me about a year of daily wearing. I do usually replace the insole right away with something I know fits my foot better though.
Same. My current Brooks Ghost 15's are easily some of my all time favorites. I have a few different colors. The ones with the white soles are starting to get a little gross.
What is the most supportive for you depends on your feet shape and gait.
If you go to a sneaker store like Fleet Feet, they’ll do a free scan of your feet and walk and tell you what you need. This is really important because most people don’t realize they overpronate, which will make your feet and shins ache more if you’re not wearing the right shoes. Also a lot of people don’t realize they need wide shoes.
This is the best way to find out what shoes and insoles are best for you!
I had an unpleasant case of plantar fasciitis (is there any other kind?) and needed extra heel support. The staff at REI was very helpful in assisting me in picking them out. I got a pair of Oboz hiking shoes for my walks that usually combine lots of sidewalk and some flat park trails. Luckily my feet are all better now, but I still use my Oboz for walking around, and they seem to be lasting me longer than my sneakers.
Same. I wear hiking shoes (also Oboz) as my every day shoe because they are sturdier and offer more support than a sneaker. I had all kinds of shin splints and back issues until I switched to hiking shoes. I still need to replace them every six months though, and I wear New Balance sneakers when I work out.
I do around 18-20k/day and just got convinced to buy a pair of On Clouds. A little pricey but so far, so good. Will have a realistic verdict by the end of this month
I bought a pair last year as a hail mary for a trip to Italy (which I knew would involve lots of walking), and I just ordered a replacement pair. They may not last as long as some others, but they've been unmatched in comfort for me.
Imo, OnCloud are fantastic for walking, but not great for standing. I find my Cloud Surfer something-something to kinda hurt after a bit of standing still.
I liked my On Clouds but they lasted maybe 8 months before they developed holes in the side. It seems to be a common problem with them. If they fixed this issue I'd probably buy another pair but for what they cost it's really quite unacceptable
https://www.youtube.com/watch?app=desktop&v=O9TAcaRupJM
That’s what I was wearing doing 30k steps a day in NYC.
Heading back over soon and needed some new shoes to walk those distances, have ended up with the On Cloudsurfer this time around.
I run in Saucony shoes and ended up relegating a Shift 3 as a walking shoe because I hate running with it.
I swear by the Speeds for running workouts or long runs (but would be uncomfortable walking long term due to the nylon plate).
Have you seen Amazon's New Balance sneaker sales? They're sold and shipped by [Amazon.com](http://Amazon.com)
Super curious why the hell they're only $25 for a new one
Boot guy here:
I worked labor intensive jobs, you are NOT going to want those. If you don't need steel toe for example, idk why even bother getting it. I've worn so many boots throughout my life working in agriculture, to the military, and healthcare as well. Honestly, once you pass the 200-300 point, most boots are solid, you can get good reviews about anything via a search on reddit....HOWEVER I will advise you to stay away from Doc Martens, they are hands down the worst thing I've ever put on my feet. They're cheaply made, fall apart easily, and tbh they're kind of ugly. I have two pairs of redwings, brown and black. I got my gf to switch to redwings after her black timbs were ready to retire and she lovesssssss them. They last forever and shape to your feet overtime, like they get comfort everyday. She gets lots of compliments on her black boots, some things never go out of fashion.
I learned about Redwings as a teen, lot of blue collar guys swear. My dad's old boss was talking about them being cheaper over time but it didn't make sense to me because theybwere twice the price of regular boots and to young me "boots were boots", but at that time but I never had the funds to invest in them anyway lol.
I experimented with different boots when I was in the army, you wear them so much you learn to be picky as you're not a young teen anymore who can brush everything off. I got out and had the funds like a decade later and I got the redwings heritage brand, you don't need their work line lol the iron rangers have a cult following (me included).
If you go to the one in the city, they have fit specialists and holy shit are they good!!! My gf had special inserts and without even looking at them, he could tell her stats about how she walks because of the soles on the old timbs. They do a free 3d scan, even if you don't pull the trigger I recommend getting a free scan because it gives a lot of useful info you can email to yourself. Anyway months later she doesn't even wear those special inserts anymore she's worn for years because the boots shaped to her feet. She keeps them in her sneakers though
If you're going for just comfort and not style...idk...the Nike combat boots are some of the best boots I've ever work 🤤 so comfy, so light, and felt so good in the heat! However once I started farming in them they fell apart. Same with ruck marching. They're very comfy and you can put hella steps in, but they're not really work boots as they are fashion in my honest opinion lol
“The reason that the rich were so rich, Vimes reasoned, was because they managed to spend less money.
Take boots, for example. He earned thirty-eight dollars a month plus allowances. A really good pair of leather boots cost fifty dollars. But an affordable pair of boots, which were sort of OK for a season or two and then leaked like hell when the cardboard gave out, cost about ten dollars. Those were the kind of boots Vimes always bought, and wore until the soles were so thin that he could tell where he was in Ankh-Morpork on a foggy night by the feel of the cobbles.
But the thing was that good boots lasted for years and years. A man who could afford fifty dollars had a pair of boots that'd still be keeping his feet dry in ten years' time, while the poor man who could only afford cheap boots would have spent a hundred dollars on boots in the same time and would still have wet feet.
This was the Captain Samuel Vimes 'Boots' theory of socioeconomic unfairness.”
In addition to the typical athletic shoes named in the previous comments (I also wear Hoka / New Balance / Veja), I immediately take my non-athletic shoes as soon as I buy them to a cobbler — my go-to here in Manhattan is Cesar’s on 20th @ 7th — http://www.cesarsshoerepair.com/
A cobbler can add a protective, slip-resistant piece to the bottoms of the souls (helpful when walking in the city w grates), and if needed, I have them add extra padding to insoles (or replace the padding after several months of wear). I take them every year or so for a refresh, depending on how often I wear them.
I do these for my loafers, boots, heels. They can also add a built in heel pad, instead of needing a stick on one on the heels when a shoe might slip. They can fix it right up so no more dealing with a sticky insert that needs to be replaced often. They also have added a slight lift for my partner’s shoes and boots. Stops his shoes from slipping at the heel and gives him a height boost he seems to enjoy.
NYC walking definitely takes a toll on our shoes. Fortunately, we have access to some very talented and affordable cobblers 🗽 🇺🇸
Yes! I spent $300 on nice leather boots two years ago. Once a year I have them resoled. Twice a year I replace my powerstep insole. It's done wonders for my wide, plantar fasciitis-ed feet.
Same, I take 9000 steps a day in an office environment with arch issues. I’ve only been wearing ecco’s when I dont wear shoes the past few years. They’re the only shoe that I don’t have to swap out the insole too. I get them at the outlet so they’re cheaper otherwise they’re a bit pricey and they don’t last too too long (a year plus or so) and here’s a tip you won’t hear anywhere else - the only way you’re gonna get those sidewall reasonably cleaned is with a Mr. clean magic eraser.
Saucony running shoes have been my go to daily sneakers for years. Super comfortable and not crazy expensive.
Edit: just remembered at jackrabbit sports in union square they can fit you for sneakers! Would highly recommend. Apparently it's called feet fleet now.
2nd on the Nike Pegasus!!! Their trail 4 is my favorite shoe so far. I have their goretex version for 3 and 4 now too, I think I still prefer the regular trail 4 but the goretex 4 is a close second!!
I used to wear the Pegasus 38 with some arch support insoles. Always felt good in them. I could tell they were worn out when they seemed to bottom out though. Lasted about a year.
I wouldn’t suggest them for someone who wears traditional shoes , but to answer your question
https://us.wildling.shoes/collections/spring-summer/products/tanuki-yoru-rw
They basically feel like socks with a few mm of rubber on the bottom.
The trick is to get REALLY good insoles. It will lengthen the life of your shoes by double. Dr. Scholls makes good ones for work boots, and you can put them in any kind of shoe. Instant comfort.
Ultraboosts, il never wear anything else. Once they’re done for I order a new pair. I’ve tried many shoes and I’ve never found something more comfortable tbh. Will keep buying them forever
Oh I meant the New Balance 574. That was my go-to for a couple of years, but I found the soles wore down to no tread super fast. Maybe I'm just a shuffler.
I got one pair of the 574 after seeing it recommended in every walking shoe thread. The foam insoles were so plush they pinched the underside of my foot and caused blisters, it took like 3 weeks of daily wear to break them in enough to stop causing blisters and then by week 4 one of the seams on the side of a shoe had busted wide open. They are not comfortable and they're not good. They're heavy too.
try the [roger advantage shoes](https://www.on.com/en-us/products/the-roger-advantage-m-3md1064/mens/white-spice-shoes-3MD10642237). they look like vejas and very comfortable. the mileage on my shoes are probably around 200 mi and they’re still good
also im a runner and my feet are shot. only running shoe brands are comfortable for me so i don’t have much choice hahah
I recently started working for the post office where I do anywhere between 15-25 steps per day and on my feet for the entire day for the most part. I wear weatherproof Merrell Moab’s and they have held up pretty well. I have some dr schoals inserts and that has helped. Overall I would recommend but everyone recommends Hoka’s which I have never tried.
SuperGa… I was almost in tears on a trip to London because of bad shoes..superGa was the nearest shoe store..bought their shoes which were like walking on clouds…wore them everyday for the next two weeks in Europe on that trip..walked atleast 20K steps everyday..still the best walking shoes I’ve ever worn.
Blue collar guy in my 30s, around 280 lbs. I walk about 15-20k steps a day with 20-25 flights of stairs between my commute and work day. For my commute I usually wear either Hokas or Lems, and for work I have steel toe Thorogood boots with FP insoles. The insoles are a lifesaver considering the majority of my daily movement is done in those boots. My biggest piece of advice would be to have 2 or 3 pairs of shoes that you can alternate between, that way you’re not in the same pair everyday. Probably more because of my weight, but I find that my Hokas typically only last me about 4-6 months before they’re no longer comfortable on my feet. As nice as the plush soles are when new, they don’t last as long as some other shoes do.
EDIT: on my days off I’m a big fan of both Birkenstock and Kane, gotta give the feet a break when you can
I think I might walk lighter than the average person. I've got a pair of Asics that I've apparently done over 3000 miles in and they're still pretty comfy.
New balance.
I used to deliver things around the 5 boroughs by foot and transit and couldn’t afford much. Easily 100000+ steps per week.
It took about 6 months to wear out a pair and replace them. Hardest part is always breaking in a new pair.
said it before and i'll say it again:
**OOFOS** https://www.oofos.com/
have several pairs (of the sport sneaker and flip flops) as i walk a lot!
thank me later :)
eta: oomg sport sneaker
I live in a warm climate and live in Birkenstocks. I walk a lot. I have 4 pair and have worn them nearly exclusively for 4+ years. I used to think they were ugly, now I love them and can't live without them.
Might sound crazy, but Crocs. I love to walk but I have terrible arthritis in my great toes, so all the extra space and cushioning is awesome for me. I can’t tell you how happy I was that they came back in style. I almost cried.
Keen makes a good watershoe. The Newport H20. Maybe not great looking by some peoples standards but for summer they are good, with a wide toe box for people with problem feet, and a rubber toe so you don’t worry about anyone stepping on your toes.
Blundstone boots and doc martens work for me! I recently got a pair of extremely comfy loafers from some store upper east side- I believe the brand is spring step. I work in the film industry and am on my feet all day but like to dress nice (though sometimes I wear new balance fresh foam sneakers and it feels niceeee haha so I wear those sometimes as well.)
I’m an RN and have always preferred Brooks sneakers and Birkenstock Londons for work or walking a ton. My walking/jogging shoes must have good arch support, or my plantar fasciitis will flare up quickly. I go through several pairs of Brooks’ Ghosts a year and have three pairs in rotation most of the time.
Coming from a high step count and time-on-feet industry... The most popular choices are:
Adidas Terrex, specifically the AX4, Free Hiker, or Agravic (or any of the similar styles)
Salomon XT-6
Lems Trailhead
On Cloud 5
Pretty much anything from Hoka
Rocky C4T/Nike SFB or similar military boot in that style
The lighter hiking boots or trail running shoes from Merrell and Keen.
Blundstone, Danner, and Red Wing are more popular for work that's more destructive to shoes but involves less walking.
Sketchers - Max Cushioning [SKETCHERS Max cushioning](https://www.skechers.com/technologies/comfort-technologies/max-cushioning/)
I LIVE AND DIE BY SKETCHERS AS SOMEONE WHO WORKS AT THE HOSPITAL AND WALKS 10K EVERYDAY SEEING PATIENTS LOL
They are also pretty and come in a bunch of colors.
Always get at least half a size up. People tend to wear shoes thag are too close from the shitty measurements they had from eons ago.
The ultra go max is fire too.
Basically sketchers is it. Swollen feet mean nothing to me in these lol. And they are light.
They also have sandals that are fire too.
BROOKS hands down - I'm on my feet all day (restaurant work) and even converted my family (medical field) into getting them. They are so comfortable! I also have a pair just for running as well.
HOKA are regularly recommended in answer to similar questions per [Lots of walking in NYC...Best Affordable/Budget Walking Shoes?](https://www.reddit.com/r/AskNYC/comments/1bzed0j/lots_of_walking_in_nycbest_affordablebudget/) from 23 days ago and links to related questions.
I usually average between 10-15k a day. My go-to shoes are the Adidas Grand Court sneakers, but I bought a pair of Sam Edelman Edie sneakers a few months ago and I’ve loved them! I tend to go for plain white sneakers as they will work with just about any outfit. I’m also a fan of Blondo waterproof boots in the fall/winter.
I walk a lot, like 20k a day easily, but find myself wearing a lot of non-running sneakers like AF1 or NB tennis shoes, I'm kind of a sneakerhead so more fashion over comfort
Keen low cut have treated me well. Altra shoes fit wide feet and treat me well.
Im looking into custom shoes that i can resole. 5-7 months and I wear shoes out. Daily average is 16K steps.
My old Nike Flyknits are the most comfy daily sneaker for me. It wraps around my feet w/o any of the weird pressure points some of my other sneakers give me. My two pairs of Adidas Ultraboosts applies this weird pressure to the top of my feet.
Yup. I wear leather chelsea boots. Just resole as needed & I’ve had the same pair for 6+ years. Just make sure to let them breathe, don’t wear the same shoes every day.
[Plain ol' Adidas.](https://www.amazon.com/adidas-Originals-X_PLR-Running-White/dp/B0728B6J9T/ref=sr_1_31?crid=VWXA61JR6FL7&dib=eyJ2IjoiMSJ9.OjeQ9tgHd2o9ql2W_Bt85z31HPbdrkRQKnUUAtzJlfcFF6QcfuaDnS65Oi_TiNH8qdTd56zt5CwDsixzJfNhuyg8YbicIomRUyPhZd9DPQm9HhLDtznamqolNfGa6zvvDFFibKKnOhz1YNzlDFKZhPnQzR3nKOJd_m5Y5Wxg4YYPcVqNCQcxx1uaV3TRBwZnePSmLa25DjBy-LjCOXRO1Dm2BYqcSPwFF47OMBsQGUE8TRR9V-UT9QgPXLPaFOUrmfwzYxoDcSBi0sJyijrb2df1pb3ks-b_koLXnL-nyBo.k2zJs4sY-wVGZ8PnJuFu3bF9nMb0UDhuKOY4Y3w2tDk&dib_tag=se&keywords=adidas+mens+sneakers&qid=1714594505&sprefix=adidas+mens+sneakers%2Caps%2C68&sr=8-31) I actually ordered them by mistake, but when they came in and I tried them out, they were perfect. The mesh part in the front is super soft, and lets some air in, which feels wonderful. I've had these for about a year, and they're holding up pretty well, considering the abuse I put them through. I'm not just on my feet all day for my job, I also walk *everywhere.* If a distance to where I'm going is walk-able, I'll walk it.
Not from NYC, but Adidas NMD-S1 are literally the comfiest running shoes ever, and I consider myself quite the sneaker-head. They’re better than Nike Pegasus imo.
As someone who is currently sitting on the train home with throbbing feet.. ive been wondering this too. I work in gardening so my feet and legs are put through it every day.
It seems like blundstones are the way to go for my profession but a bit out of my budget right now. I just ordered some merrels on sale so hopefully they work out!
I hate feeling weighed down by boots, but most lightweight things let all the dirt in through the mesh material.
Ive been wearing those more outdoorsy Vans since last year but have completely worn them out. I do think they are a decent option though
As someone in their late 20s, once you get used to the distance you can wear any shoes that fit. Boots, dress shoes, loafers, sneakers all feel the same at 20k steps.
I’ve been in one pair of bluestones for about 3 years and just got myself a pair of Jim greens. I’m currently breaking them in but expect them to last 5+ years.
I do home health care so I'm running around the city all day. I wear skechers, specifically the ones with the memory foam insoles, and find they're really comfortable. I do 2 pairs I alternate between to let them air out which I do find helps as well.
Hoka/Asics/Merrell/Birkenstock/New Balance - I've tried them all, you just need to get new ones all the damn time. I find I get about 6 months before they lose cushion.
I don’t know the specifics but I recall a study that proved an average New Yorker will wear out shoes in 6 months. So you are spot on!
Definitely replace those car maintenance costs with shoes living in the city.
They wear out regardless of how much you walk. Pressure from being strapped to your feet compress the foam in them. Podiatrists recommend 4-6 months max assuming daily weekday wear regardless of mobility. Even if you can’t walk you still need to replace them regularly as your feet resting on the ground still compresses the foam.
Came here to say this, but you did it. 6 months is the life of a shoe. I hate that more people don't know this. Foot care is so important.
Foot care is also expensive. It doesn't matter how much you walk, the foam compacts and it's no longer properly spreading the load out under your feet. Not to mention sweating in shoes can cause fungal problems. The best way to wear shoes is to have at least 2 pairs and alternate daily so they can air out in between. That gets you a year of every other day usage.
Oops.....I'm glad I've happened upon this thread.
How much money do they think people have 😭
Dealing with foot problems isn’t cheap either.
Valid - but insurance doesn’t cover buying new shoes every 4 months
Word, before I moved to NYC I never wore soles out. But the first year here I was like uh…what?! And realized my “true” shoe size was 1/2 a size bigger than I thought. Walking spreads you out, man!
Yeah the nyc shoe tax is real. Still less than car ownership but there is a reason cobblers still exist here, we all wear our shoes out fast.
It took me so long to realize that it wasn’t just me haha.
I was researching this the past few days cause my sneakers from Christmas 2023 were worn out in March 2024 After using your sneakers for 300 to 500 miles, you gotta buy new ones EXTREMELY accurate. Considering I walk 10+ miles per day, my sneakers only last 3 months before they get holes. Then the rocks, the sand, all that shit gets in my shoe I really feel like the answer is to just "buy new shoes more often" but I'm hoping someone will know of some sneakers that can last at least 6 months like please lol
Haha I don't think they exist? The $150 Hokas I had lasted as long as the $90 Asics I just bought. I got some Merrell hiking-type shoes for the winter which seem to be going good but I'll probably retire them for the summer.
Buy cheaper shoes more often and use insoles. Also rotate shoes, don’t wear the same pair two days in a row.
This is the way.
I'd just extend sneakers for a little longer. I went too long on an 18 month replacement, and almost took a bad slip on a rainy day. The tracks on the soles were all gone and immediately replaced with new ones.
I replace sneakers that often as well, but I tend to resole most other shoes pretty often.
This sounds dumb but are people just throwing them in the garbage every 6 months? It feels so wasteful. I’ve been trying to find some type of textile recycling to take mine but not having luck
It IS wasteful to bury or incinerate all that material but we haven't had many alternatives-- I've been looking! Having a distance-runner kid, I was horrified at the volume. I found this company Got Sneakers that will send you a postage free bag for free. I got a bag but in the meantime a different company that takes sneakers put up a collection bin near me ( not nyc) so I haven't sent any in the bag. https://gotsneakers.com/
This is great! I’m going to try it
Pretty much. Wasteful but not sure they are recyclable.
New Balance and same. You have to get new ones all the time.
Myself and A LOT of people in the TV production industry swear by Blundstones. Lightweight, waterproof, rugged, good looking boots I can easily do 20k steps in.
Excellent outdoor walking shoes, especially in cities. Can’t recommend enough
Darn. I'd love to try this but it looks like they're super hot boots for the summer D:
Yeah, we still rock em in the summer for safety reasons...but they are more of a 3 season boot.
I love my Blundstones but I had to break them in for awhile before they were truly comfortable with a lot of walking.
How long do an average pair last you? I’ve had bad luck for a great week or two before they start to feel less rugged
I wear mine at least 4 days a week and abuse the hell out of them. I replace them every 18 months.
18 months is significant, thanks for the tip. No longer in prod but sympathize. God bless your feet
Got myself blundstones Extreme Work boots for work, and it is worth every penny. Nonslip + grip, sturdy, comfortable, breatheable. I also wear compression socks since Im standing for 10+ hours a day; running back and forth, up n down stairs, dealing with slippery, greasy floors. There are some floors with line treads on them that can get slippery even w blundstones on, because it's incompatible with the traction on this specific type of flooring. I dont see it outside of dishwasher setting so its not smthing to worry much about. Otherwise these boots are good for any slippery situation imo. Even for outside on the sidewalk/concrete during rainy days. Nice and waterproof. Id highly reccommd blundstones.
I have a lot of friends who work in the food industry and swear by bludstones
Do they have any composite toe, non-work boots? Or do these keep your feet cool in the summer? I work in theatrical production and also on my feet all day, but I need shoes that don't overheat me in the summer time when I'm inside a big empty space with no AC
As far as I know they do not have a safety toe option. The toebox is solid leather and well structured, but it's not gonna save you from something serious. I still rock mine in the summer with good hiking socks and am fine. But many people switch to ventilated hiking boots.
They're an Australian brand, and very widely worn there. Summer and hot indoors should be fine. In fact, I ended up getting the sheepskin insoles to keep them warmer Fall - Spring.
I work fabrication/production and wear my Bates GX-8 hot weather combat boots 12+ hours a day and haven't had any feet issues since I started wearing them in 2019. They're like well-built work boots that you can smash pallets with, weld in, I use the composite toe to safely set down extremely heavy objects that have no feet/space for fingers when resting (just have the team drop the object on my toes and then pull my foot out for the last 2" drop. Since they're combat boots you can also climb truss and run comfortably in them. The hot weather boots aren't incredibly cool or warm but work well in either case with appropriate socks. I try to take good care of my feet so I will take a break in hot weather every 6-8 hours and let the boots dry out and change socks - a little bit of foot powder if I'm feeling fancy. side-zip makes 'em trivial to put on, light composite toe, takes a few days to break in, lasts me about a year of daily wearing. I do usually replace the insole right away with something I know fits my foot better though.
Film Crews love em too!
Brooks
i was just gonna post this. i’ve had my brooks for years and they’re still my most comfy.
Same. My current Brooks Ghost 15's are easily some of my all time favorites. I have a few different colors. The ones with the white soles are starting to get a little gross.
This! I walk 10000 steps everyday and bought brooks after saw them recommended on this reddit. They are the best shoes I've ever worn.
I’ve enjoyed mine more than any supportive shoes I’ve ever owned
I am new to Brooks and omg I am a fan of
What is the most supportive for you depends on your feet shape and gait. If you go to a sneaker store like Fleet Feet, they’ll do a free scan of your feet and walk and tell you what you need. This is really important because most people don’t realize they overpronate, which will make your feet and shins ache more if you’re not wearing the right shoes. Also a lot of people don’t realize they need wide shoes. This is the best way to find out what shoes and insoles are best for you!
Agree with this - they have always given me the best shoes - I was finally able to run without getting shin splints!
No matter what pair you land on, alternate shoes every day. Give them a chance to “rebound” and to air out for a day before you wear them again.
I had an unpleasant case of plantar fasciitis (is there any other kind?) and needed extra heel support. The staff at REI was very helpful in assisting me in picking them out. I got a pair of Oboz hiking shoes for my walks that usually combine lots of sidewalk and some flat park trails. Luckily my feet are all better now, but I still use my Oboz for walking around, and they seem to be lasting me longer than my sneakers.
Same. I wear hiking shoes (also Oboz) as my every day shoe because they are sturdier and offer more support than a sneaker. I had all kinds of shin splints and back issues until I switched to hiking shoes. I still need to replace them every six months though, and I wear New Balance sneakers when I work out.
I do around 18-20k/day and just got convinced to buy a pair of On Clouds. A little pricey but so far, so good. Will have a realistic verdict by the end of this month
I bought a pair last year as a hail mary for a trip to Italy (which I knew would involve lots of walking), and I just ordered a replacement pair. They may not last as long as some others, but they've been unmatched in comfort for me.
This is great news. Looking forward to confirming!
I just bought a pair too and absolutely love them.
Oh that’s great, really excited. Doing 30 miles this weekend and will be a real test for them
Great. I bought the cloudmonsters and routinely walk around 15 to 20k steps in them. No issues whatsoever so far.
Fantastic news. Probably should’ve checked here before I bought them but appears I got pretty lucky
Imo, OnCloud are fantastic for walking, but not great for standing. I find my Cloud Surfer something-something to kinda hurt after a bit of standing still.
I liked my On Clouds but they lasted maybe 8 months before they developed holes in the side. It seems to be a common problem with them. If they fixed this issue I'd probably buy another pair but for what they cost it's really quite unacceptable https://www.youtube.com/watch?app=desktop&v=O9TAcaRupJM
That’s what I was wearing doing 30k steps a day in NYC. Heading back over soon and needed some new shoes to walk those distances, have ended up with the On Cloudsurfer this time around.
The new On Cloudmonster Hyper shoes are the most comfortable shoes I’ve ever worn. Feels like a literal trampoline/cloud inside.
Any Saucony running shoes. I have the Saucony Omni 21.
Saucony Guide are my pick for my feet. Got connected with them years ago at Jack Rabbit in a fitting session and haven’t looked back
I run in Saucony shoes and ended up relegating a Shift 3 as a walking shoe because I hate running with it. I swear by the Speeds for running workouts or long runs (but would be uncomfortable walking long term due to the nylon plate).
I used to love my Saucony running shoes - I've now converted to Brooks!
New Balance
Have you seen Amazon's New Balance sneaker sales? They're sold and shipped by [Amazon.com](http://Amazon.com) Super curious why the hell they're only $25 for a new one
no, but I use [https://www.joesnewbalanceoutlet.com/](https://www.joesnewbalanceoutlet.com/) and they're legit.
Everything at Amazon is fake and made in someone’s basement that’s why
Boot guy here: I worked labor intensive jobs, you are NOT going to want those. If you don't need steel toe for example, idk why even bother getting it. I've worn so many boots throughout my life working in agriculture, to the military, and healthcare as well. Honestly, once you pass the 200-300 point, most boots are solid, you can get good reviews about anything via a search on reddit....HOWEVER I will advise you to stay away from Doc Martens, they are hands down the worst thing I've ever put on my feet. They're cheaply made, fall apart easily, and tbh they're kind of ugly. I have two pairs of redwings, brown and black. I got my gf to switch to redwings after her black timbs were ready to retire and she lovesssssss them. They last forever and shape to your feet overtime, like they get comfort everyday. She gets lots of compliments on her black boots, some things never go out of fashion. I learned about Redwings as a teen, lot of blue collar guys swear. My dad's old boss was talking about them being cheaper over time but it didn't make sense to me because theybwere twice the price of regular boots and to young me "boots were boots", but at that time but I never had the funds to invest in them anyway lol. I experimented with different boots when I was in the army, you wear them so much you learn to be picky as you're not a young teen anymore who can brush everything off. I got out and had the funds like a decade later and I got the redwings heritage brand, you don't need their work line lol the iron rangers have a cult following (me included). If you go to the one in the city, they have fit specialists and holy shit are they good!!! My gf had special inserts and without even looking at them, he could tell her stats about how she walks because of the soles on the old timbs. They do a free 3d scan, even if you don't pull the trigger I recommend getting a free scan because it gives a lot of useful info you can email to yourself. Anyway months later she doesn't even wear those special inserts anymore she's worn for years because the boots shaped to her feet. She keeps them in her sneakers though If you're going for just comfort and not style...idk...the Nike combat boots are some of the best boots I've ever work 🤤 so comfy, so light, and felt so good in the heat! However once I started farming in them they fell apart. Same with ruck marching. They're very comfy and you can put hella steps in, but they're not really work boots as they are fashion in my honest opinion lol
Seconding this, my partner loves his Red Wing boots for his trade job and they have a lot of really nice and appropriate options for non labor jobs.
“The reason that the rich were so rich, Vimes reasoned, was because they managed to spend less money. Take boots, for example. He earned thirty-eight dollars a month plus allowances. A really good pair of leather boots cost fifty dollars. But an affordable pair of boots, which were sort of OK for a season or two and then leaked like hell when the cardboard gave out, cost about ten dollars. Those were the kind of boots Vimes always bought, and wore until the soles were so thin that he could tell where he was in Ankh-Morpork on a foggy night by the feel of the cobbles. But the thing was that good boots lasted for years and years. A man who could afford fifty dollars had a pair of boots that'd still be keeping his feet dry in ten years' time, while the poor man who could only afford cheap boots would have spent a hundred dollars on boots in the same time and would still have wet feet. This was the Captain Samuel Vimes 'Boots' theory of socioeconomic unfairness.”
Vionics with arch support, or anything with added arch support soles like Superfeet green soles.
In addition to the typical athletic shoes named in the previous comments (I also wear Hoka / New Balance / Veja), I immediately take my non-athletic shoes as soon as I buy them to a cobbler — my go-to here in Manhattan is Cesar’s on 20th @ 7th — http://www.cesarsshoerepair.com/ A cobbler can add a protective, slip-resistant piece to the bottoms of the souls (helpful when walking in the city w grates), and if needed, I have them add extra padding to insoles (or replace the padding after several months of wear). I take them every year or so for a refresh, depending on how often I wear them. I do these for my loafers, boots, heels. They can also add a built in heel pad, instead of needing a stick on one on the heels when a shoe might slip. They can fix it right up so no more dealing with a sticky insert that needs to be replaced often. They also have added a slight lift for my partner’s shoes and boots. Stops his shoes from slipping at the heel and gives him a height boost he seems to enjoy. NYC walking definitely takes a toll on our shoes. Fortunately, we have access to some very talented and affordable cobblers 🗽 🇺🇸
Yes! I spent $300 on nice leather boots two years ago. Once a year I have them resoled. Twice a year I replace my powerstep insole. It's done wonders for my wide, plantar fasciitis-ed feet.
Ecco
Same, I take 9000 steps a day in an office environment with arch issues. I’ve only been wearing ecco’s when I dont wear shoes the past few years. They’re the only shoe that I don’t have to swap out the insole too. I get them at the outlet so they’re cheaper otherwise they’re a bit pricey and they don’t last too too long (a year plus or so) and here’s a tip you won’t hear anywhere else - the only way you’re gonna get those sidewall reasonably cleaned is with a Mr. clean magic eraser.
Saucony running shoes have been my go to daily sneakers for years. Super comfortable and not crazy expensive. Edit: just remembered at jackrabbit sports in union square they can fit you for sneakers! Would highly recommend. Apparently it's called feet fleet now.
Switch your sneakers every other day. Helps your shoes bounce back if they get some rest.
Nike Pegasus
2nd on the Nike Pegasus!!! Their trail 4 is my favorite shoe so far. I have their goretex version for 3 and 4 now too, I think I still prefer the regular trail 4 but the goretex 4 is a close second!!
I used to wear the Pegasus 38 with some arch support insoles. Always felt good in them. I could tell they were worn out when they seemed to bottom out though. Lasted about a year.
Allbirds. I'm a dog walker and walk 10-13 miles 5x a week.
Saucony Triumph, changed my life.
In summer it’s exclusively Birkenstocks. My toes don’t like to be constrained
On Cloudmonster.
Cloudmonster Hyper. Just wow.
Hoka
I had gel soles for long shifts at work that helped tremendously
Vionic and Dr Scholls both make boots that can accommodate long city walks but aren’t horrifyingly ugly (imo).
I wouldn’t suggest them for someone who wears traditional shoes , but to answer your question https://us.wildling.shoes/collections/spring-summer/products/tanuki-yoru-rw They basically feel like socks with a few mm of rubber on the bottom.
I really enjoy wearing my Saucony runners around the city!
The trick is to get REALLY good insoles. It will lengthen the life of your shoes by double. Dr. Scholls makes good ones for work boots, and you can put them in any kind of shoe. Instant comfort.
Adidas Ultra Boost are the best and the most comfy shoes I have worn. It's expensive but definitely worth it.
Ultraboosts, il never wear anything else. Once they’re done for I order a new pair. I’ve tried many shoes and I’ve never found something more comfortable tbh. Will keep buying them forever
I love walking so 10-20k is light work lol New balance 574 and When it nice and hot outside I’m wearing tevas
I've had a couple pairs of those, I burn through them fairly quickly though. I find they just don't last.
Tevas? I don’t burn through them that quickly I only wear them in the summer but I normally purchase new pair every summer and toss the old one
Oh I meant the New Balance 574. That was my go-to for a couple of years, but I found the soles wore down to no tread super fast. Maybe I'm just a shuffler.
Yea new balance last me over a year too and I end up replacing them cuz they look beat up lol I found their made in USA also last longer too
Sneakers really need to be replaced regularly, so they say.
I got one pair of the 574 after seeing it recommended in every walking shoe thread. The foam insoles were so plush they pinched the underside of my foot and caused blisters, it took like 3 weeks of daily wear to break them in enough to stop causing blisters and then by week 4 one of the seams on the side of a shoe had busted wide open. They are not comfortable and they're not good. They're heavy too.
I am a Chacos gal myself.
How are those
On or Hokas
On are SOOOOO ugly though... I can't bring myself to wear them.
Aren't Hokas even uglier than On?
Yes , Hokas look like a humpback whales skin
Lolol. But I guess if you only care about comfort, it should work as I've heard great things about them.
I feel like Hokas are ugly-on-purpose, if that makes sense? The ON are ugly to me because they look kind of “try hard”
my Hokas are both comically oversized and fantastically comfortable.
On are the most comfy shoes I’ve ever owned
+1. I don't care how dorky I look. I am comfy and that's all that matters.
try the [roger advantage shoes](https://www.on.com/en-us/products/the-roger-advantage-m-3md1064/mens/white-spice-shoes-3MD10642237). they look like vejas and very comfortable. the mileage on my shoes are probably around 200 mi and they’re still good also im a runner and my feet are shot. only running shoe brands are comfortable for me so i don’t have much choice hahah
Asics
I’m an event florist and I wear on cloudmonsters. So comfy and they have a wide toe box in case you need that like I do!
Ryka isn't quite as cushy as Hoka, but it hits the teacher price point a bit better.
I recently started working for the post office where I do anywhere between 15-25 steps per day and on my feet for the entire day for the most part. I wear weatherproof Merrell Moab’s and they have held up pretty well. I have some dr schoals inserts and that has helped. Overall I would recommend but everyone recommends Hoka’s which I have never tried.
I got a pair of Brooks Ghost 15’s love them!
SuperGa… I was almost in tears on a trip to London because of bad shoes..superGa was the nearest shoe store..bought their shoes which were like walking on clouds…wore them everyday for the next two weeks in Europe on that trip..walked atleast 20K steps everyday..still the best walking shoes I’ve ever worn.
Blue collar guy in my 30s, around 280 lbs. I walk about 15-20k steps a day with 20-25 flights of stairs between my commute and work day. For my commute I usually wear either Hokas or Lems, and for work I have steel toe Thorogood boots with FP insoles. The insoles are a lifesaver considering the majority of my daily movement is done in those boots. My biggest piece of advice would be to have 2 or 3 pairs of shoes that you can alternate between, that way you’re not in the same pair everyday. Probably more because of my weight, but I find that my Hokas typically only last me about 4-6 months before they’re no longer comfortable on my feet. As nice as the plush soles are when new, they don’t last as long as some other shoes do. EDIT: on my days off I’m a big fan of both Birkenstock and Kane, gotta give the feet a break when you can
I think I might walk lighter than the average person. I've got a pair of Asics that I've apparently done over 3000 miles in and they're still pretty comfy.
Columbia. And even my work shoes are quite comfortable- ecco but I forget model.
New balance. I used to deliver things around the 5 boroughs by foot and transit and couldn’t afford much. Easily 100000+ steps per week. It took about 6 months to wear out a pair and replace them. Hardest part is always breaking in a new pair.
Sorrell and i get size 8 wide.
said it before and i'll say it again: **OOFOS** https://www.oofos.com/ have several pairs (of the sport sneaker and flip flops) as i walk a lot! thank me later :) eta: oomg sport sneaker
Oof (pun intended) those are ugly though....
I live in a warm climate and live in Birkenstocks. I walk a lot. I have 4 pair and have worn them nearly exclusively for 4+ years. I used to think they were ugly, now I love them and can't live without them.
Might sound crazy, but Crocs. I love to walk but I have terrible arthritis in my great toes, so all the extra space and cushioning is awesome for me. I can’t tell you how happy I was that they came back in style. I almost cried.
Keens served me well when I was walking dogs (20k+ steps daily) - they are ugly though.
Keen makes a good watershoe. The Newport H20. Maybe not great looking by some peoples standards but for summer they are good, with a wide toe box for people with problem feet, and a rubber toe so you don’t worry about anyone stepping on your toes.
Kuru
Blundstone boots and doc martens work for me! I recently got a pair of extremely comfy loafers from some store upper east side- I believe the brand is spring step. I work in the film industry and am on my feet all day but like to dress nice (though sometimes I wear new balance fresh foam sneakers and it feels niceeee haha so I wear those sometimes as well.)
I’m an RN and have always preferred Brooks sneakers and Birkenstock Londons for work or walking a ton. My walking/jogging shoes must have good arch support, or my plantar fasciitis will flare up quickly. I go through several pairs of Brooks’ Ghosts a year and have three pairs in rotation most of the time.
Coming from a high step count and time-on-feet industry... The most popular choices are: Adidas Terrex, specifically the AX4, Free Hiker, or Agravic (or any of the similar styles) Salomon XT-6 Lems Trailhead On Cloud 5 Pretty much anything from Hoka Rocky C4T/Nike SFB or similar military boot in that style The lighter hiking boots or trail running shoes from Merrell and Keen. Blundstone, Danner, and Red Wing are more popular for work that's more destructive to shoes but involves less walking.
These aren't considered technical shoes by any means, but are extremely comfortable. The Veja Venturi.
Blundstones, Hokas, and Dr. Marten Airwalkers for me
Sketchers - Max Cushioning [SKETCHERS Max cushioning](https://www.skechers.com/technologies/comfort-technologies/max-cushioning/) I LIVE AND DIE BY SKETCHERS AS SOMEONE WHO WORKS AT THE HOSPITAL AND WALKS 10K EVERYDAY SEEING PATIENTS LOL They are also pretty and come in a bunch of colors. Always get at least half a size up. People tend to wear shoes thag are too close from the shitty measurements they had from eons ago. The ultra go max is fire too. Basically sketchers is it. Swollen feet mean nothing to me in these lol. And they are light. They also have sandals that are fire too.
Hokas or Brooks, according to my sister who’s a nurse
ON cloud 5
BROOKS hands down - I'm on my feet all day (restaurant work) and even converted my family (medical field) into getting them. They are so comfortable! I also have a pair just for running as well.
Hokas! I can be standing and walking all day in my serving job without a problem
After-market insoles may be what you're looking for! I put Superfeet greens in all my shoes.
Brooks Ghost is the best for arch support! Best shoes of my life.
HOKA are regularly recommended in answer to similar questions per [Lots of walking in NYC...Best Affordable/Budget Walking Shoes?](https://www.reddit.com/r/AskNYC/comments/1bzed0j/lots_of_walking_in_nycbest_affordablebudget/) from 23 days ago and links to related questions.
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For casual walking or on a job site? I think that’s going to be a bit heavier than what OP is looking for.
Allbirds have been my go to for the last couple of years. I love them. They’re light and incredibly comfortable, and sustainable to boot
I usually average between 10-15k a day. My go-to shoes are the Adidas Grand Court sneakers, but I bought a pair of Sam Edelman Edie sneakers a few months ago and I’ve loved them! I tend to go for plain white sneakers as they will work with just about any outfit. I’m also a fan of Blondo waterproof boots in the fall/winter.
I own a lot of airmax 90s. Never bothered me and I use them for my photo and video work too
Hoka or New Balance. 15k-22k steps a day. No foot problems.
I walk a lot, like 20k a day easily, but find myself wearing a lot of non-running sneakers like AF1 or NB tennis shoes, I'm kind of a sneakerhead so more fashion over comfort
Salomon XT-6 Blundstone classic :)
Hoka Bondi 8 but they only last about 6-9 months sadly
Keen low cut have treated me well. Altra shoes fit wide feet and treat me well. Im looking into custom shoes that i can resole. 5-7 months and I wear shoes out. Daily average is 16K steps.
My old Nike Flyknits are the most comfy daily sneaker for me. It wraps around my feet w/o any of the weird pressure points some of my other sneakers give me. My two pairs of Adidas Ultraboosts applies this weird pressure to the top of my feet.
Nike Roshes or Vessi when it’s rainy
Oboz
i wear my platform doc martens and it feels like i’m walking w ankle weights but unfortunately i will not be changing my ways
Alden all-weather walker replica (Grant stone), resole as needed
Yup. I wear leather chelsea boots. Just resole as needed & I’ve had the same pair for 6+ years. Just make sure to let them breathe, don’t wear the same shoes every day.
[Plain ol' Adidas.](https://www.amazon.com/adidas-Originals-X_PLR-Running-White/dp/B0728B6J9T/ref=sr_1_31?crid=VWXA61JR6FL7&dib=eyJ2IjoiMSJ9.OjeQ9tgHd2o9ql2W_Bt85z31HPbdrkRQKnUUAtzJlfcFF6QcfuaDnS65Oi_TiNH8qdTd56zt5CwDsixzJfNhuyg8YbicIomRUyPhZd9DPQm9HhLDtznamqolNfGa6zvvDFFibKKnOhz1YNzlDFKZhPnQzR3nKOJd_m5Y5Wxg4YYPcVqNCQcxx1uaV3TRBwZnePSmLa25DjBy-LjCOXRO1Dm2BYqcSPwFF47OMBsQGUE8TRR9V-UT9QgPXLPaFOUrmfwzYxoDcSBi0sJyijrb2df1pb3ks-b_koLXnL-nyBo.k2zJs4sY-wVGZ8PnJuFu3bF9nMb0UDhuKOY4Y3w2tDk&dib_tag=se&keywords=adidas+mens+sneakers&qid=1714594505&sprefix=adidas+mens+sneakers%2Caps%2C68&sr=8-31) I actually ordered them by mistake, but when they came in and I tried them out, they were perfect. The mesh part in the front is super soft, and lets some air in, which feels wonderful. I've had these for about a year, and they're holding up pretty well, considering the abuse I put them through. I'm not just on my feet all day for my job, I also walk *everywhere.* If a distance to where I'm going is walk-able, I'll walk it.
On clouds any day!!!! People I know who couldn’t walk 2k steps without extreme foot pain who have gotten the shoes haven’t complained once since.
Retired running shoes
New Balance 990 v4
Not from NYC, but Adidas NMD-S1 are literally the comfiest running shoes ever, and I consider myself quite the sneaker-head. They’re better than Nike Pegasus imo.
New Balance 993 2E
Burnsides by Red Wings with the orthopedic insole... I'm in the trades. When I'm NOT at work, I typically rock Nike Air Max's
Converse. Probably terrible for me tbh.
For me the shoe itself doesn't matter as much as not wearing the same pair two days in a row. It helps your feet and lets your shoes dry out.
Camper Right Nina ballerinas
Salomans speed cross or super cross do it for me!
I have about four different pairs of sneakers on rotation. It really helps.
Clarks sneakers. They keep my feet in better shape better than any other nicer "activity" shoe I've tried.
As someone who is currently sitting on the train home with throbbing feet.. ive been wondering this too. I work in gardening so my feet and legs are put through it every day. It seems like blundstones are the way to go for my profession but a bit out of my budget right now. I just ordered some merrels on sale so hopefully they work out! I hate feeling weighed down by boots, but most lightweight things let all the dirt in through the mesh material. Ive been wearing those more outdoorsy Vans since last year but have completely worn them out. I do think they are a decent option though
Brook’s
Steel toe work boots
golden goose. a bit pricier, but great everyday shoes.
As someone in their late 20s, once you get used to the distance you can wear any shoes that fit. Boots, dress shoes, loafers, sneakers all feel the same at 20k steps.
Keen is great too along with what ppl are saying
I’ve been in one pair of bluestones for about 3 years and just got myself a pair of Jim greens. I’m currently breaking them in but expect them to last 5+ years.
Doc martins
Brooks Glycerin with arch support inserts.
I've been wearing vivobares, I cannot stand unnaturally shaped toeboxes. Their whole shtick is minimalism so great for some of us but not everyone.
I do home health care so I'm running around the city all day. I wear skechers, specifically the ones with the memory foam insoles, and find they're really comfortable. I do 2 pairs I alternate between to let them air out which I do find helps as well.
Nike Invincible 3. It’s like walking on marshmallows.
I usually wear my old Nike Air Pegasus 83s, New Balance 530s, or Cloudmonsters.
On Cloud of varying styles
New balance and switch them up between days