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Many of us are frequently on the move, so ensuring our feet are supported is of the utmost importance. In the modern day, even when we are mostly sedentary, we still may spend time on our feet. For example, think of the rise in popularity of standing desks. You may even be standing as you read this article! As many of us sense when we wear old or low-quality shoes, not only are our feet unsupported, but this discomfort may transfer to our knees, hips, or back. However, there are many types of shoes equipped for standing all day—even for uniquely shaped feet such as flat feet. Ultimately, many of these shoes utilize different types of insoles or memory foam to ensure extra comfort and to mitigate your chance of injury or pain. Respecting your feet is an easy way to respect your body; selecting the most comfortable shoes for standing all day is the first step!
The Best Shoes for Standing All Day - Our Top Picks
- Best Overall: HOKA Bondi SR
- Best for Wide Feet: HOKA Clifton 8
- Best Budget: Skechers Gowalk Arch Fit
- Best Non-Slip: Skechers Work Relaxed Fit: Squad SR
- Most Comfortable: Asics Gel-Nimbus 24
- Best for Work: Brooks Ghost 15
- Best for Flat Feet: adidas Ultraboost 22
- Best Nike: Nike ZoomX Invincible Run Flyknit 2
As you'll read here, we at ACTIVE have sorted through some of the best shoes for standing all day. When you read our reviews, be careful to consider our thoughts on the weight and material of the shoes, which we have determined are two of the most important factors.
Why Trust Us?
ACTIVE.com's editorial team relies on the knowledge and experience of fitness and wellness experts including competitive athletes, coaches, physical therapists, nutritionists, and certified trainers. This helps us ensure the products we feature are of the highest standard. Collectively, the team has spent countless hours researching equipment, gear, and recovery tools in order to create the most accurate, authentic content for our readers. Customer satisfaction is also a key part of our review process, which is why we only feature products that are highly rated.
Best Overall Shoes for Standing All Day - HOKA Bondi SR
SPECS
- Weight: 14 oz. Men’s, 11.5 oz. Women’s
- Material: Water-resistant leather upper, memory foam collar, EVA midsole, slip-resistant rubber outsole and tread
CHECK PRICETo design this shoe, which HOKA calls a "workplace warrior," the company adapted one of its most successful and plush road-running shoes, the Bondi, and thus created this Bondi SR. Like other HOKA models, the Bondi SR has HOKA's trademark thick midsole to ensure foot comfort and shock absorption. Yet, also according to HOKA, this model is designed for "professional use," and thus this shoe has earned our approval as the best work shoe for standing all day. This shoe has also earned a Seal of Acceptance from the American Podiatric Medical Association. Available in both black and white leather, you'll look sharp no matter your workplace. Don't worry about commuting in the rain, since the leather is water-resistant and the rubber outsole finds traction on most surfaces.
Other features ensure you'll feel comfortable all day. Once you slide on these shoes, you'll feel supported by the memory foam collar and the tongue lining wrap which gently supports your ankle and upper foot. Although quite expensive, if you're looking for the best overall shoes for standing all day, then you can't go wrong with the HOKA Bondi SR.
What We Like
- Available in regular and wide widths
- Designed with sleek-looking, water-resistant leather, and slip-resistant outsole
- Thick EVA midsole provides support all day
- Customers review positively
- Recipient of the American Podiatric Medical Association Seal of Acceptance—recognized as beneficial to foot health
What We Don't Like
- Only available in black and white color
- Expensive
Best Shoes for Wide Feet for Standing All Day - HOKA Clifton 8
SPECS
- Weight: 8.9 oz. Men’s, 7.2 oz. Women’s
- Material: Engineered mesh upper, EVA foam midsole, rubber outsole
CHECK PRICESimilar to the HOKA Bondi SR (featured above), the HOKA Clifton 8 is also endorsed by the American Podiatric Medical Association for being beneficial to foot health. Customary for any HOKA shoe, this Clifton 8 has a thick and supportive midsole made of EVA foam, which absorbs shock and makes for smooth walking. In addition, this shoe sports a “rocker” design, meaning that the foam is a bit thicker at the midsole. If you prefer this extra support or if you have higher arches, then this may be a good fit for you.
However, we primarily have included this shoe on our list because it is a great option for those with wide feet. First of all, the wide width is available in 20 color schemes for men and 21 for women. Second, the new feature, the Achilles heel tab, will allow your wide feet to easily enter the shoe. Comfortable, smooth, and supportive, you can't go wrong with the Clifton 8.
What We Like
- Available in wide width for all shoe options
- 21 unique color combinations for women's shoes, 20 for men
- American Podiatric Medical Association Seal of Acceptance
- Achilles pull tab allows easy entry
- Extended heel crash-pad softens shock
What We Don't Like
- Rocker design is great for running, but not always preferable for standing
- Heavier than the previous HOKA Clifton version, but not necessarily more responsive
Best Budget Shoes for Standing All Day - Skechers Gowalk Arch Fit
SPECS
- Weight: 7.05 oz. Men's, 1.7 lbs. Women’s
- Material: Mesh upper, rubber sole, 100% synthetic material
CHECK PRICEThe Skechers Gowalk Arch Fit shoes have earned our vote for best budget shoes for standing all day. Although these shoes are on the cheaper side, they are by no means lacking in their comfort and durability. Since its founding, this award-winning lifestyle brand has prioritized the comfort of its customers. This is most evident through the fact that many of Skechers' shoes, including this Gowalk Arch Fit model, have a podiatrist-designed insole system and shape. In turn, this ULTRA GO cushioned insole reduces shock, increases weight dispersion, and proves supportive and responsive. Lastly, the underfoot is built from Skechers' Comfort Pillar Technology, which offers extra support for any walker.
In addition to being comfortable and approved by podiatrists as a reliable walking and standing shoe, this shoe also has other unique specifications that set it apart from other shoes. If you happen to get your shoes dirty, these shoes are machine washable. Furthermore, these shoes are available in several sizes and widths, so no matter your foot shape you'll be sure to find your best fit.
What We Like
- Podiatrist-designed shape, developed from 20 years of data
- ULTRA GO cushioning offers support and stability
- Breathable and machine washable material
- Affordable
- Available both with and without laces
What We Don't Like
- Reports of the underfoot losing traction
BUY: Skechers Gowalk Arch Fit - Men's
BUY: Gowalk Arch Fit - Women's
Best Non-Slip Shoes for Standing All Day - Skechers Work Relaxed Fit: Squad SR
SPECS
- Weight: N/A
- Material: Mesh and synthetic upper, Skechers Memory Foam insole, slip-resistant traction outsole
CHECK PRICEAs the name of this shoe indicates, the Skechers Work Relaxed Fit: Squad SR shoe is specifically designed for working individuals who need to rely on a shoe to wear all day in dynamic environments. Earning our best non-slip shoe for standing all day category, this shoe is reliably comfortable in unpredictable environments that may become wet. For example, nurses, those in the restaurant industry, and factory workers would especially like these shoes because of their non-slip undersole. If you're ever caught off-guard by a puddle in your workplace, you can be confident that these shoes will keep you on your feet. These shoes are also durable in that they have been treated with 3M Scotchgard to prevent stains on the shoe's upper meshing. These shoes are comfortable and Skechers Memory Foam has proven itself reliable and responsive throughout the course of a long day.
If you're looking for a minimalist-designed shoe with high functionality and at a reasonable cost, then these will be great for you.
What We Like
- Minimalist design—available in four classic colors
- Comfortable and reliable insole designed with Skechers Memory Foam
- Treated with 3M Scotchgard to prevent stains on upper mesh
- Slip-resistant
- Shoe's toe is electrical hazard-safe
What We Don't Like
- Wide fit only available in black
- Foam insole material is thin—may wear-out quickly
BUY: Skechers Work Relaxed Fit: Squad SR - Men's
BUY: Skechers Work Relaxed Fit: Squad SR - Women's
Most Comfortable Shoes for Standing All Day - Asics Gel-Nimbus 24
SPECS
- Weight: 10.2 oz. Men’s, 8.7 oz. Women’s
- Material: Recycled, engineered mesh upper, OrthoLite X-55 sockliner, AHAR outsole rubber
CHECK PRICEEarning our pick for the most comfortable shoes for standing all day, the Asics Gel-Nimbus 24 shoes truly do prioritize comfort over all else. In multiple ways, this dynamic shoe proves supportive. First of all, like many other Asics shoes, the Gel-Nimbus incorporates 360 degrees of GEL technology cushioning systems that distribute shock absorption. Furthermore, designed with both FF BLAST+ cushioning as well as FLYTEFOAM cushioning, you are sure to feel comfortable and supported all day. Your feet will feel snug and secure inside the shoe when you insert your foot into the OrthoLite X-55 sockliner. And after tying your shoes, you'll notice how precisely the knit tongue fits across the top of the foot.
These shoes are especially comfortable for individuals with certain specifications. First of all, if your feet are frequently feeling sweaty, this shoe should alleviate this discomfort. Designed with jacquard mesh, the Gel-Nimbus breathes all day and ensures your feet will not feel stale. In terms of foot structure, if you have high to normal arches, then this is the shoe for you. If you walk neutrally or underpronate, then you'll find extra support in these shoes. On the flip side, if you have flatter feet or walk with supination then a different model would probably be better for you.
What We Like
- Available in 17 designs for men and 19 for women
- Shoe's upper is made with recycled materials
- Lighter than the Gel Nimbus 23, yet more durable and comfortable
- Gel technology increases cushioning and shock absorption
- Great for those with regular or high arches
What We Don't Like
- Expensive
- Not available for wider feet
- Not comfortable for those with supination
BUY: Asics Gel-Nimbus 24 - Men's
BUY: Asics Gel-Nimbus 24 - Women's
Best Work Shoes for Standing All Day - Brooks Ghost 15
SPECS
- Weight: 9.1 oz. Women’s, 10.1 oz. Men’s
- Material: 3D engineered mesh upper, DNA Loft v2 midsole, rubber sole
CHECK PRICEA top brand for marathon runners, teachers, and nurses, Brooks consistently produces durable and comfortable shoes. The Brooks Ghost 15 is no different, and while this shoe continues to prove reliable for runners, it is equally fit for those who spend much of their day standing. Like many other Brooks shoes, the Ghost 15 is made with Brooks' signature DNA Loft midsole cushioning. Made with foam and rubber, this midsole offers runners and standers extra support and is extremely responsive. Furthermore, although the DNA Loft midsole provides this extra support and cushion, this does not sacrifice the shoes' durability or airiness. The shoes continue to be light considering how supportive they are.
For several other reasons, too, these shoes are great for standing all day at work. Designed with a 3D fit, this Ghost model adapts to the contours of your foot and thus provides you personalized comfort. Furthermore, this shoe is known to be most comfortable for heel runners. This relates well to standing all day because standers are likely to exert more force toward their midsole and heel than a standard runner would. Lastly, these shoes are durable and built to last. On the roads, these shoes can withstand hundreds of miles without losing their support, comfort, or grippy rubber sole. Selected as our best work shoe for standing all day, you can't go wrong with the Brooks Ghost 15. Although decently expensive when compared to many other shoes, this shoe will prove a good investment in the long term.
What We Like
- Brooks' first carbon-neutral shoe
- 3D fit naturally adjusts to your foot
- Nitrogen-infused, DNA Loft midsole is durable, comfortable, not too squishy
- Reliable in the long term
- Extra support on the midsole and heel for standing heel support
What We Don't Like
- Shoelaces may be too short and too thin
- Synthetic upper material is less durable
BUY: Brooks Ghost 15 - Women's
Best Shoes for Flat Feet for Standing All Day - adidas Ultraboost 22
SPECS
- Weight: 11.7 oz. Men’s, 10 oz. Women’s
- Material: adidas PRIMEKNIT upper, BOOST midsole, Continental Better Rubber outsole
CHECK PRICEThe adidas Ultraboost 22 is our choice for the best shoes for flat feet for standing all day primarily because of this shoe's BOOST midsole and BOOST capsule system. Filled with hundreds of Boost capsules in the midsole, this shoe is responsive to your feet, no matter their shape. Furthermore, equipped with this BOOST technology, these shoes preserve energy and give you a spring in your step. The women's shoe, in particular, is highly acclaimed due to its intuitive design which was created after adidas conducted 1.2 million foot scans. Incredibly attuned to female biomechanics, this shoe has received praise for its cushioning and snug feeling.
Available in an array of designs and color schemes, ranging from flamboyant to minimalistic, you'll be able to find a match no matter your style. Lastly, for those seeking to contribute to environmental causes, the upper webbing of this shoe is engineered from recycled ocean plastic and recycled polyester. As adidas says, these shoes turn "problem to performance" in their repurposing of plastic waste.
What We Like
- 21 designs for men, 16 designs for women
- Yarn in the upper is 50% Parley Ocean Plastic, 50% recycled polyester
- Women's shoe was specially designed to fit the female foot
- The female Ultraboost 22 was regarded as the “Best Women's Running Shoe Around By a Mile,” by T3 sports magazine
- Highly reviewed by customers
What We Don't Like
- Tongue is soft and may not feel snug around your upper foot
- Bottom of the shoe isn't designed with much traction
BUY: adidas Ultraboost 22 - Men's
BUY: adidas Ultraboost 22 - Women's
Best Nike Shoes for Standing All Day - Nike ZoomX Invincible Run Flyknit 2
SPECS
- Weight: 11.07 oz. Men’s, 8.92 oz. Women’s
- Material: Mesh upper, Nike ZoomX foam midsole, rubber outsole
CHECK PRICEBecause some people are always committed to buying and wearing Nike shoes, we decided to create a category for those individuals. Thus, earning our recommendation for the best Nike shoes for standing all day is the Nike ZoomX Invincible Run Flyknit 2. Although primarily designed for runners, with the rocker-shaped foam design to support the toes, midsole, and heel, this shoe is also effective for standing all day and is one of the more supportive Nike models. This Nike ZoomX foam is deeper than in other Nike models, thus giving your foot more cushion as you stand or walk.
These Nike ZoomX Invincible Run Flyknit 2 shoes are very supportive. As you stand all day in whichever profession or in whatever capacity, you'll feel these shoes nicely hugging your ankles and feet. The shoe's vamp is gently snug against your feet and also provides security as you move. In addition, the heel is designed with a clip that holds your feet in place. Overall, for anyone looking to keep the Nike swoosh on their feet but also wanting to find effective shoes for standing all day, this is a good fit for you.
What We Like
- Available in six colors
- Nike ZoomX foam is responsive to every step
- Rocker shape supports the front, midsole, and heel
- Widened front for more stability
- Waffled outsole for extra traction
What We Don't Like
- Not available in wide width
BUY: Nike ZoomX Invincible Run Flyknit 2 - Men's
BUY: Nike ZoomX Invincible Run Flyknit 2 - Women's
What To Look For in the Best Shoes for Standing All Day
Cushion
As you're deciding which shoe is the best for standing all day, it's crucial to investigate the shoe's cushion. As you'll read above, there are several different types of cushion, which all absorb shock to different extents as you walk and go about your day. Some are made from memory foam, which may prove conducive to standing, but less so to being on the move. Similarly, other types of cushions like EVA foams, gels, or shock-absorbent capsules may be conducive to easing shock while walking or running but may not be specifically comfortable for standing all day. Moreover, aside from the cushion's material, you should also consider the design of the cushion. Is this cushion rocker style? Is there more cushion by the heel? By considering these factors you'll make an informed purchase.
Material
Ultimately, when you're selecting a shoe, you will consider three types of materials: the shoe's upper, the shoe's midsole, and the shoe's underfoot. When selecting a shoe, be sure that the shoe's upper is made from a material that aligns with your needs. If you are working in hot environments, be sure to select a shoe with breathable mesh; if you are working in fast-paced, wet environments, selecting a waterproof or even leather upper might be the best choice. Most underfoot are made from rubber, yet sometimes the type of rubber varies. Occasionally, the rubber may be treated or patterned to produce more traction. Lastly, as you select your shoe you may want to check if its materials are environmentally sustainable.
FAQs About the Best Shoes for Standing All Day
Which shoes are best for standing on concrete all day?
All of the above-mentioned shoes are great for standing on concrete all day. However, due to the hard nature of concrete, shoes with rocker-style midsoles or with thick support layers would be best for standing on concrete.
Are Skechers good for being on your feet all day?
Skechers are certainly great for being on your feet all day. As you can see above, Skechers' shoes earned two superlatives on our list. Skechers are widely known for being a reliable, comfortable shoe option while also being available at a reasonable and affordable price.
Are memory foam shoes good for standing all day?
Memory foam shoes are good for standing all day, as your feet will sink into what feels like a pillow. However, if you are moving around on your feet all day then memory foam may not be the best option for you. For a standing and more sedentary lifestyle, this would be the best option.
What helps feet that are sore from standing all day?
Normally, the best way to help sore feet from standing all day is to rest your feet. However, foam rolling your feet out, foot stretches, some types of cream, or even ice bath soaks might be good options to help relieve pain. And, most obviously, making sure you have the right pair of shoes for standing all day is of the utmost importance!
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