The Most Comfortable Sneakers for Men Who Are Sick and Tired of Sore Feet

While they may have originated in sports like tennis and basketball, sneakers have always been a comfortable option off the court. It makes sense; shoes that are built to perform also work well for walking or standing. And while most sneakers are going to be pretty comfortable, at least compared to stiff dress shoes, they’re not always the most comfortable. That’s why we rounded up some of the most comfortable men’s sneakers available to buy online.

Everyone likes to be comfortable, and unless a shopper is determined to wear elite designer labels at all costs, no one buys uncomfortable shoes on purpose (of course, that is absolutely not the case with women’s footwear). However, for guys that spend all day on their feet, comfortable shoes are actually crucial, unless you want your feet, legs, and back screaming out in pain after a few hours on the job. That’s why shoes like Crocs and New Balance sneakers are so popular with essential workers, who have to prioritize comfort over style — and we say that will all due respect to Crocs.

For many guys, the best running shoes will suffice as the most comfortable sneakers, but they’re not the only options. From basketball shoes to low-top canvas sneakers, there are a lot of comfortable shoes that can suit different settings and outfits. And since different people look for different factors when considering comfort, we’ve kept the parameters pretty broad.  

When Shopping for Comfortable Sneakers, It’s All About the Midsole

When shopping for the most comfortable men’s shoes, we recommend looking for shoes with a midsole made from EVA or a similar material. The midsole is the part of the shoe between the inner and outer sole, and if comfort is a top priority (as opposed to, say, style or traction), then the midsole should be top of mind. Today, some of the most comfortable sneakers for men and women feature EVA midsoles. EVA stands for ethylene-vinyl acetate, and it’s a lightweight, foam-like material that provides excellent cushioning.

To help us identify only the most comfortable sneakers, we turned to Wade Motawi, a shoe designer with more than 25 years of experience creating shoes and advising footwear brands. Motawi runs the Sneaker Factory website, and he literally wrote the book about How Shoes Are Made. Wade declined to recommend specific sneakers to SPY, but he told us in an interview that most comfy shoes use EVA, often in the midsole.

How did EVA midsoles become the go-to material for comfortable shoes — especially comfortable sneakers and running shoes — in the United States? While talk of this material has been ramping up recently, it’s actually been the standard for comfort since the 1970s. Motawi told SPY that the use of EVA in sneakers started with Nike and its co-founder Phil Knight.

In the early 1970s, Knight traveled to Japan, where he learned about EVA from the Japanese sports shoe company Onitsuka Tiger. The way that EVA midsoles are produced has evolved over the decades, but the same basic material has been widely used in running shoes, walking shoes, and sneakers of all kinds ever since. Motawi said that some brands have since created their own version of EVA foam, which is why some shoemakers claim to use a unique patented foam. However, at the end of the day, it’s all pretty much EVA. The only exception would be cutting-edge marathon footwear and performance running shoes.

EVA midsoles provide long-lasting support even with intense use, which is another why so many of the best men’s sneakers now feature this material. EVA midsoles don’t just cushion the feet and contour to the unique shape of the wearer’s soles; they also provide excellent shock absorption. For this reason, a lot of popular running shoes have EVA materials. This is why so many running shoes appear on our list of the most comfortable sneakers for men.

How We Chose the Most Comfortable Sneakers for Men

Of course, comfort is subjective, so we sought out sneakers in a wide array of styles to fit different needs. If dealing with a specific foot issue such as plantar fasciitis, look for shoes that provide that specific type of support. Likewise, some people need shoes that are very supportive and structured, and many of the running shoes on this list check that box. But some feel better closer to the ground, so less cushioned shoes like the Adidas Gazelle or Converse Jack Purcell might meet that criteria.

Another factor to consider is breathability. Many of the shoes on this list have mesh or canvas uppers, allowing adequate ventilation for the feet. Even if it’s nippy out, having breathable shoes for walking around all day will keep body temperature regulated.

Finally, it doesn’t matter how cushioned and supportive a sneaker is if it simply doesn’t fit. That’s why it’s important to consult size guides (and even forums) to ensure buyers are selecting the right-sized shoe. If something feels wrong, it might be wise to size up or down. If dealing with a irregular foot shape, then look to brands like New Balance, which is well known for offering its shoes in wide sizes.

“If you have a beautifully sleek foot, then Nike’s going to fit you great,” Motawi told us. “If you have a loaf of bread foot and bone spurs, then Nike’s not going to fit you. No shoe fits everybody. Find a brand that fits you right and stick with it.”

With all these factors in mind, we went on a search for men’s sneakers that check these boxes without sacrificing style. From classic favorites from Nike and Adidas to under-the-radar brands like Rothy’s, follow along and discover the most comfortable sneakers.

1. Nike Air Force 1 ’07

BEST OVERALL

Nike’s Air Force 1 ’07s have become a modern staple to men and women’s footwear for their easy-to-match style properties and unmatched comfort. These sneaks are available in white and black to keep any outfit looking clean, no matter what’s been thrown together. AF1s are designed for shooting hoops, so expect extra cushioning to provide all-day comfort no matter how far a walk may be. In our experience, these sneaks are also tremendously durable and have a long lifespan. They’re one of the most legendary white sneakers, too.

2. Hoka One One Clifton 8

LONGEST LASTING

For avid walkers, finding a solid pair of durable sneakers that last more than a couple of months is the goal. Thankfully, the Hoka One One Clifton 8s are some of the most durable, long-lasting shoes we’ve seen in a while. They’re made with a high-abrasion rubber outsole to ensure they won’t fall apart after a few months. Each pair is super lightweight to lessen any additional energy used when strolling around town. Worried about an uncomfortable fit? Don’t be. These sneakers have a full-compression EVA midsole to give wearers some of the best cushioning available in a pair of shoes.

Read More: Most Comfortable Men’s Shoes

3. Adidas Ultraboost 5.0 DNA Shoes

BEST FOR ATHLETES

Most comfy shoes feature an inner layer of molded EVA, meaning the midsole is made out of a single piece of EVA. However, the Adidas Ultraboost line is an exception, and this footwear features an innovative material and design. Adidas trades the standard EVA midsole for its BOOST material, which is a different type of plastic made up of tiny pellets pressed together, hence the unique look of the Ultraboost line. These trainers are famously comfortable, and that’s because they combine a cushioned footbed with excellent energy return on each step. This is crucial to overall comfort, especially when you’re working out. For all these reasons, these are some of the most comfortable sneakers in the world, and a great alternative to Nike sneakers.

Editor’s Note: This product is currently unavailable.

4. APL TechLoom Pro

CLEANEST LOOK

Comfortable, good-looking, clean, durable — we could use just about every positive word we’ve ever learned to describe our love for the APL TechLoom Pro sneakers. These running shoes aren’t only perfect for a morning jog, but they have the ability to keep feet comfy while mobile on shorter walks and adventures. The APL TechLoom Pros make quite the travel shoe for those experiencing new cities who prefer ditching the taxi to get from place to place. Each sneak uses APL’s proprietary Propelium midsole and outsole for both visual and comfort purposes, too.

5. New Balance 990v5

THE OG

In 1978, the New Balance birthed the 990 sneaker, making it one of the best running sneakers of all time. Now, over 40 whole years later, the tradition continues with the New Balance 990v5 sneaker — the latest release of the original 990 sneaker. This stylish sneaker is made to take on your day in maximum comfort. It effortlessly blends cushioning and style to ensure you’ll stay looking fresh on the streets. Dual-density collar foam is included around the ankles for extra support and comfort. Finally, these famously comfortable shoes feature an ENCAP midsole, which is a type of EVA midsole.

6. Allbirds Tree Runners

MOST ECO-FRIENDLY

Not only are the Allbirds Tree Runners some of the most comfortable sneakers to rock throughout the year, but they’re some of the most eco-friendly sneakers on the planet. Each pair is made using eucalyptus tree and renewable materials to keep feet cozy, light, and breezy. On top of that, these sneakers feature the world’s first carbon-negative, plant-based EVA material. The sneakers naturally minimize odor and contour the foot to move with it. There’s no awkward “break-in” process like with other sneakers, either. When they get dirty, they can be tossed directly into the washing machine.

7. ON Cloud 5 Running Shoe

EASY ON AND OFF

ON’s shoes are primarily designed for runners, but they’re so comfortable that it’s pretty common to see people wearing them as casual footwear. They’re available in a range of muted colors. The soles have air cells that provide cushioning, so it feels like walking on clouds. Plus, the elastic laces make the shoes easy to slip on and off. ON refers to its version of foam cushioning as CloudTec® Zero-Gravity foam, which is equivalent to an EVA sole in terms of comfort.

8. New Balance 237V1

NEW FROM NEW BALANCE

Because of their legendary comfort, we couldn’t include just one pair of New Balance sneakers on this list. If the 990 feels a little too dad-shoe-adjacent, then the sporty lines of the 237V1 might be a more streamlined option. They’re available in a range of eye-catching colors, and the uppers are made from mesh and suede. The ripple gum-sole adds cushioning and traction. Most importantly, an EVA midsole will keep feet comfortable, making this a stylish shoe that’s perfect for standing all day. New Balance is perhaps best known for its classic dad shoes, but we love the modern styling of these comfortable sneakers.

Read More: The 15 Best Dad Shoes To Rock This Fall 

9. Rothy’s The RS01 Sneaker

BEST NEWCOMER

For many people, comfort isn’t just about ergonomics — it’s also about ethics. That’s why it’s a good thing that these sneakers from Rothy’s have a knit upper that’s made from recycled plastic bottles. Of course, they’re also physically comfortable, too. The knit uppers promote improved breathability, while the gum soles provide traction and shock absorption. The shoes have a classic look and a low-profile design that’s modeled after German Army trainers made famous by brands like Adidas and Puma, so they can easily be worn with any style of pants.

10. Brooks Men’s Adrenaline GTS 21

BEST FOR RUNNING

Unsurprisingly, running shoes are often pretty good for anyone looking for comfortable footwear. Brooks’ Adrenaline is a great example of that. They’re stable and supportive for all-day comfort. They’re available in a wide range of colors as well. Also, our Assistant Managing Editor and in-house running expert swears by these for anyone hoping to crush their mileage goals this year.

11. Adidas Gazelle

MOST VERSATILE 

The Adidas Gazelle is the perfect mid-point between a flat shoe and a structured running shoe. They have some cushioning and arch support, but won’t be too structured for people used to shoes like Vans and Converse. Plus, they’re not too wide or narrow, and they’re pretty easy to slip on and off even when they’re laced up. The Gazelle comes in a wide range of colors — go for pink to make a statement.

Read More: The Best Adidas Sneakers

12. Jack Purcell Low Top Sneaker

BEST CANVAS SNEAKERS

Comfort in footwear is typically thought of as cushioning and support, but that’s not necessarily what works best for everyone. The Jack Purcell is a low, relatively unstructured shoe that’s ideal for anyone who likes a flatter shoe. However, they are slightly more supportive and comfortable than the traditional All-Star. The rubber cap is an iconic design detail, which offers the practical benefit of keeping the toes protected.

    

13. ASICS Men’s Gel-Kayano 27 Running Shoes

BEST VALUE

Another great running shoe that can be worn for comfort is the ASICS Gel-Kayano. ASICS makes a wide range of sportswear, but they’re best known for their quality running shoes. The Gel-Kayano 27 comes in a variety of colors and has a classic running shoe look. The supportive foam sole is great for bounding farther and faster while running, but it also suits anyone who’s on their feet all day.

14. Vans Authentic Sneakers

BEST SKATE SHOE

Vans don’t offer the same out-of-the-box comfort of many of the shoes on this list, but the more they get worn, the more comfortable they’ll become. The canvas will gradually conform to the wearer’s foot, while the iconic waffle sole is flexible enough to stay on the move. They may not be the most supportive shoes on this list, but they are comfortable in their own way, especially for anyone who prefers a more low-profile shoe.

 

This article was last updated on Thursday, April 21, 2022, when we added the Adidas Ultraboost 5.0 DNA shoes as the best option for athletes. In addition, we moved up the ON Cloud running shoes after receiving additional feedback from readers.