In my role as Forbes Vetted gear editor, I spend countless hours on my feet each day, testing footwear, training for big adventures and exploring local trails. Drawing on my background working 12-hour emergency room shifts and input from colleagues, I’ve put together this complete guide to the best shoes for standing all day that balance comfort with proper support. My top pick, the Hoka Clifton 10, is a trainer that sports loads of cushioning for unrivaled relief, and if you prefer a slip-on that’s easy to take on and off, the On Cloud 6 is another great choice.

When rounding up recommendations for this guide, I spoke with a physical therapist and multiple foot doctors for further insight on what to look for: “Generally, we consider arch height, heel drop, heel stack, material and width,” says Dr. Chloe Costigan, PT, of Mobility-Doc. Ahead, eight of the best shoes for standing all day, and how to find one that actually meets your needs.

Our Top Recommendations

Hoka Clifton 10

Sizes: 4 to 12 (women’s); 7 to 16 (men’s) | Widths: Regular, wide or x-wide | Heel drop: 8mm | Weight (per pair): 17.6 ounces (women’s), 19.6 ounces (men’s)

Pros:

  • Plush and responsive cushioning
  • Breathable upper material
  • Lots of colors to choose from

Cons:

  • Stack height might feel unstable
  • Not as supportive as the Hoka Bondi

I’ve been wearing iterations of the Clifton for years, and while it used to be my go-to running shoe, I now wear it just about everywhere because I know it’ll keep my feet happy no matter how long I’m standing. As one of Hoka’s best-selling models, it offers next-level cushioning and an improved jacquard knit upper to make the design breathable and durable for daily use. It’s also fitted with Hoka’s MetaRocker technology, which minimizes foot fatigue by helping make the transition from your heel to your toe a little easier as you walk. Together, these features made the Clifton 10 easy to wear for hours on end as I was testing it around town.

All that said, the shoe does stack up pretty high, which might feel wobbly if you’re not used to it. If that sounds like a dealbreaker, the Hoka Bondi 9 could be a better fit. It’s just as cushy but offers a bit more stability. For further insights, see my Hoka Clifton 10 review after testing it for months as a walking and running shoe.

Skechers Slip-Ins Work Summits

Sizes: 5 to 11 (women’s); 7 to 12 (men’s) | Widths: Medium or wide | Heel drop: Not listed | Weight: Not listed

Pros:

  • Wide toe box improves comfort
  • Grippy sole improves traction on slick surfaces

Cons:

  • Fixed stretch laces make it harder to fine-tune the fit
  • Long-term quality comes into question at this price point

If you’re only on your feet for a few hours a day and can’t justify spending over $100 on shoes, the Skechers Slip-In Work Summits might be up your alley. These budget-friendly shoes feature a breathable mesh upper to keep your feet cool and memory foam cushioning for dependable support. And because they’re technically work shoes, they also employ a slip-resistant sole and are electrical hazard-rated to keep you safe as you work. Plus, Skechers adds a hands-free opening, making it easy to slip them on and off without bending down—or touching them (a plus if you work in a healthcare setting).

Of course, budget shoes sometimes come with durability concerns—it’s often true that you get what you pay for. Fortunately, Skechers has spent more than three decades proving they can deliver affordable, quality footwear, and their track record gives me confidence in recommending the Work Summits as a solid choice for wallet-friendly all-day comfort. 

A final note: The men’s and women’s versions of this shoe look the same, but they’re named differently. The women’s shoe is the Enslee, while the men’s is the Colsin.

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Kuru Atom 2

Sizes: 5 to 12 (women’s); 7 to 15 (men’s) | Widths: Medium or wide | Heel drop: 10 mm | Weight (per pair): 22.8 ounces (women’s); 26.2 ounces (men’s)

Pros:

  • Specifically designed to hug the heel and support the foot’s arch
  • Airy mesh upper for breathability

Cons:

  • May take longer than other styles to fully break in
  • The styling leaves something to be desired

If you’re searching for a shoe that excels at providing ankle, heel and arch support, I recommend the Kuru Atom 2. The Salt Lake City-based brand is known for its supportive yet comfortable footwear that can withstand running, walking and everyday wear. Of all Kuru’s offerings, the Atom 2 stands out most for all-day support, thanks to its thick, cushioned soles that follow the natural shape of your foot and contoured heel cups, which help absorb the impact of each step by flexing and cupping your heel. 

As the new and improved version of the Kuru Atom, the Atom 2 features the addition of an adjustable tongue (tightens fit of shoe and helps reduce heel slippage) and a thicker layer of Kuru’s Cloud+ Foam for greater support. That said, some reviewers found this style a bit stiff at first, so keep in mind it may take longer to fully break in.

On Cloud 6

Sizes: 5 to 12 (women’s ); 7 to 15 (men’s ) | Widths: Standard | Heel drop: 8mm | Weight (per pair): 15.2 ounces (women’s); 18.8 ounces (men’s)

Pros:

  • Lightweight and easy to wear
  • Can be worn as a slip-on or laced up
  • Versatile enough for the gym, travel or just wearing around town

Cons:

  • Not as supportive as some others

The On Cloud 6 is a great slip-on shoe for anyone who needs comfort, convenience and all-day support without the hassle of tying laces. Thanks to its speed-lacing system, you can slip it on and off with zero fuss, which can be a game-changer for those who are busy or struggle with dexterity. It also has a cushioned, lightweight midsole and soft, breathable upper to keep your feet comfortable and cool.

Forbes Vetted gear updates writer, Alexandra Garrett, has worn the Cloud 6 to the gym, on walks and while running errands, and she was immediately impressed with how easy it was to slide on and off. “When I’m looking to leave the house fast, the On Cloud 6 sneakers take seconds to slip on and go,” she says. “While they don’t have as much padding as my Hoka Cliftons, they still keep me comfortable throughout the day.”

However, if you’re someone who needs a lot of arch support or stability for intense physical activity, the Cloud 6 might not be the best fit. Its cushioning is more geared toward light support, so if you’re looking for added structure, you might want to look elsewhere, or consider adding custom insoles.

Hoka Bondi 9

Sizes: 4 to 12 (women’s); 7 10 16 (men’s) | Widths: Regular, wide or x-wide | Heel drop: 5mm | Weight (per pair): 18.6 ounces (women’s); 21 ounces (men’s)

Pros:

  • Super-cushioned to prevent fatigue
  • Rear crash pad absorbs impact
  • Recommended by American Podiatric Medical Association

Cons:

  • Thick sole may be too chunky for some
  • Heavier than the Hoka Clifton

The Hoka Bondi 9 is the thicker, more cushioned cousin to the Clifton 10. It’s fitted with a tall foam sole for additional cushioning, a rear crash pad to absorb impact and more stability with each step. “The thick cushioning makes these sneakers especially supportive for long walks and travel days spent on your feet,” says Forbes Vetted deals editor Kara Cuzzone in her Hoka Bondi 9 review. “I occasionally deal with foot pain on days when I log 10,000-plus steps, but that didn’t happen to me once while I was wearing these shoes.”

These shoes also hold the American Podiatric Medical Association (APMA) Seal of Acceptance, meaning they’ve been reviewed by podiatrists to make sure they’re beneficial for foot health. Dr. Arti Kamur, a podiatrist with Healthy U Clinics, praises this shoe “for its cloud-like cushioning and rocker sole that keeps your stride smooth and light.” Similarly, Dr. Mike Daniels of WeTreatFeet podiatry notes that “the cushioning is thick, but that rocker sole really does reduce strain if you’re walking miles during a shift.”

That said, it’s heavier than the Clifton 10 at 21 ounces (men’s) compared to Clifton’s 19.2 ounces (men’s). If you prefer a more lightweight option, the Clifton 10 is a better option.

Brooks Ghost Max 3

Sizes: 5 to 13 (women’s); 7 to 15 (men’s) | Widths: Standard, wide, extra-wide | Heel drop: 6mm | Weight (per pair): 20 ounces (women’s); 22.4 ounces (men’s)

Pros:

  • Nitrogen-infused DNA Loft v3 cushioning delivers unrivaled comfort
  • Slight rocker propels you forward
  • Elevated side walls add stability 

Cons:

  • Neutral support may not work with all foot types
  • May be too cushy for feet that need more structure

Standing on your feet for hours is tough enough, but doing so on hard surfaces like concrete takes the discomfort to another level. That’s where the Brooks Ghost Max 3 comes in. This ultra-cushioned shoe features nitrogen-infused DNA Loft v3 foam, delivering an incredibly plush ride, while its rocker sole helps smooth out heel-to-toe transitions and reduces fatigue—though the difference might be so subtle you barely notice.

I’ve spent months testing this shoe while walking and running, and I’ve worn it for hours at my standing desk to gauge its support in between movement. All in all, I’ve found that it’s a soft, pillowy shoe that feels even more like walking on a marshmallow than the Hoka Bondi or Clifton, which translates to long-term comfort on hard surfaces like concrete. Technically, you can also run in it, but I think it’s more reliable at slower paces, like standing, walking and light jogging.

Ultimately, Brooks didn’t change a lot when they updated this plush trainer, but that’s the point. It takes on the qualities that I truly loved in its predecessors and adds just a touch of padding to improve comfort. Read my full review of the Brooks Ghost Max 3 to learn more about its minor improvements, and why it’s such a solid shoe.

New Balance Fresh Foam X 880v15

Sizes: 5 to 13 (women’s); 7 to 16 (men’s) | Widths: Narrow, standard, wide or x-wide | Heel drop: 6mm | Weight: 16.8 ounces (women’s); 21.4 ounces (men’s)

Pros:

  • Cushioned and responsive
  • Mesh upper boosts breathability
  • Available in four widths—narrow, standard, wide and extra-wide

Cons:

  • Not available in many colors

The New Balance Fresh Foam X 880v15 is one of my favorite shoes for standing and walking all day. Its Fresh Foam X midsole is cushy but not overly soft, giving you that sweet spot between comfort and support—the brand calls this shoe their “most cushioned” experience. Essentially, your feet will feel great, even after hours of wear, without that dreaded discomfort that some ultra-plush shoes can cause. The breathable mesh upper keeps things cool, and the padded collar adds a touch of snug comfort. Bonus points: It holds the Seal of Acceptance from the American Podiatric Medical Association (APMA) just like the Hoka Bondi 9.

That said, the 880v15 is a neutral shoe, so if you need extra arch support or stability features, it might not be the best match. Instead, consider the Kuru Atom 2 since it provides more support through the midfoot for your arch. For most people, the Fresh Foam X 880v15 is an all-day workhorse that feels just as good at hour one as it does at hour twelve.

Dansko XP 2.0

Sizes: 4.5 to 13 (women’s); 8.5 to 14 (men’s) | Widths: Regular | Heel drop: Not listed | Weight: Not listed

Pros:

  • Slip-resistant outsole
  • Easy on and off
  • Roomy toe box

Cons:

  • Leather scuffs easily
  • Stack height might cause instability

Dansko has earned a loyal following among those who spend long hours on their feet, especially in demanding jobs like nursing and food service. Thanks to its superior arch support, cushioned footbed and shock-absorbing sole, the XP 2.0 clog keeps your feet feeling comfortable and supported, even during those marathon shifts. Plus, the footbed is antimicrobial, to prevent bacteria. Beyond comfort, the slip-resistant outsole is a big win, especially for anyone working in environments where spills or slick floors are common. The roomy toe box gives your feet plenty of space to spread out, reducing discomfort and fatigue, and the durable leather upper ensures they’ll stand the test of time.

While the XP 2.0 is ideal for all-day comfort and stability, it’s a bit bulkier compared to more lightweight athletic shoes, so if you prefer a sleeker, less substantial feel, opt for a traditional trainer instead.

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How We Chose the Best Shoes for Standing All Day

To pack this guide with comfortable, capable footwear, I relied on my in-depth footwear expertise to identify and recommend options known for quality, comfort and durability.

  • I started by researching reader-favorite styles and narrowed down my picks with insights from podiatry experts.
  • Because standing for hours demands supportive, stabilizing footwear, I prioritized features like cushioning, weight, breathability and overall comfort. Based on insights from Dr. Costigan, I also took arch height, heel stack, heel drop, material and width into account.
  • I also considered different environments that require you to stand all day, which is why I’ve included everything from traditional running shoes to clogs.
  • Finally, I weighed my findings and recommendations against online customer reviews and opinions from Forbes Vetted staffers, evaluating real-world feedback to ensure these shoes perform as promised. Many of these styles have since been tested by Forbes Vetted staffers, including the Hoka Clifton 10, On Cloud 6, Hoka Bondi 9, Brooks Ghost Max 3 and New Balance Fresh Foam X 880x15.

How To Shop For The Best Shoes For Standing All Day

When the time comes to invest in a pair of shoes for standing all day, key factors include fit, support, durability and materials. Here’s what to keep in mind:

Fit

Getting the right fit is key when you’re shopping for shoes to support your body for hours at a time. Shoes that are too loose can cause rubbing and blisters, while ones that are too tight can leave your feet feeling cramped and sore. “Make sure there’s room in the toe box,” explains Dr. Daniels. “Your feet swell during the day, and you don’t want shoes that feel tight during working hours.”

Ultimately, you want a snug fit in the heel to keep your foot secure and enough room in the toe box for your toes to move naturally. And as Costigan notes, it’s worth investing in a quality pair of shoes, even if they’re a bit more expensive. “Your body will thank you,” he says.

Cushioning

For all-day standing, midsole cushioning is essential because it directly impacts long-term comfort. Materials like EVA, TPU and PEBA offer shock absorption and other benefits, such as durability and energy return. But don’t assume more cushioning is always better—it also comes down to how firm or soft the cushioning is. “The material can impact how much the force is absorbed,” explains Costigan. “Some people like a more firm shoe for standing. Other people like something more soft.”

Arch Support

“It’s imperative to have a shoe that accommodates to your arch height,” says Costigan. “Remember this isn’t just about your foot. If your arch is collapsed, then you’re going to have more force on the inside of your knee that will cause your hips and spine to compensate.” If you have flat feet, look for a stability shoe that keeps your feet in a neutral position. If you have high arches, look for a shoe that supports the arch of your foot. And if you use orthotics, look for shoes with removable liners and try them on with your orthotics to ensure a good fit.

Durability

It may seem obvious, but shoes designed to provide comfort and support for hours at a time need to be durable. If they’re lacking in this aspect, you risk not only the uppers tearing or the liners falling apart, but the soles giving out as well, which can spell trouble for your feet, legs and back. To ensure your shoes are durable, buy from reputable brands with solid track records like Hoka, On and Dansko, and factor in warranties that give you flexibility to return or repair shoes if yours fail.

Breathability

Your feet are going to sweat if you’re standing all day—there are no two ways about it. Normally, sweaty feet aren’t cause for concern, but if your feet are especially sweaty, be sure to invest in shoes that feature soft, breathable fabrics for improved comfort. “Nobody wants sweaty feet,” says Dr. Daniels. “Mesh uppers help keep things dry and cuts down on blisters.”

Foot Conditions

Various foot conditions, like plantar fasciitis or flat feet, can influence the type of shoe you find most comfortable. For example, people with plantar fasciitis need more arch support and thicker cushioning than others. Shoes that cup the heel, such as the Kuru Atom 2 can also help curb discomfort.

If you’re wearing a pair of shoes and simply don’t know if they’re good for standing all day, start by listening to your body. As Costigan explains, pain can indicate that your footwear isn’t up for the task, but it’s not just your feet that have to hurt. Pain in your knees or lower back can also be signs that you’re standing in improper shoes, so be sure to listen to your entire body.

Why Trust Forbes Vetted

Our team of editors and writers bring decades of experience with footwear to our reporting, giving us the expertise to guide you toward the right shoes for your needs. Over the years, we’ve covered everything from the best Hoka running shoes to the best shoes for plantar fasciitis and even the best Hoka shoes for nurses.

  • Author and Forbes Vetted gear editor Cam Vigliotta holds a degree in kinesiology from the University of Massachusetts. While attending school, he worked in an emergency room for two years and spent hours on his feet during several 12-hour shifts per week. Vigliotta has tested and reviewed a wide variety of footwear over the years.
  • To better understand what makes a shoe ideal for standing all day, we consulted Dr. Chloe Costigan at Mobility-Doc, PT, of Bethlehem, Pennsylvania, to learn more about fit, cushioning, support and durability. We also spoke with Dr. Arti Karmur of Healthy U Clinics; Dr. Adam Shapiro of Foot & Ankle Associates; and Dr. Mikel Daniels of We Treat Feet Podiatry.
  • Our team regularly revisits this guide to reevaluate our recommendations against the latest releases and provide the most current advice. It was last updated by Vigliotta in October 2025, who reviewed each of these selections and updated one of our picks—the best shoes for standing on concrete all day—to the Brooks Ghost Max 3.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

What Are The Best Shoes To Wear If You’re On Your Feet All Day?

When you’re spending long hours on your feet, the On Cloud 6 is a lightweight option with plenty of cushioning that keeps your feet comfortable and energized. For those in need of extra cushioning, the Hoka Clifton 10 offers plush support and a wide, stable base, making it ideal for standing, walking or running.

What Shoes Do Foot Doctors Recommend?

The experts we spoke with recommend athletic shoes like the Hoka Clifton and On Cloud. But even if these shoes aren’t quite right for you, foot doctors generally recommend shoes with excellent cushioning, arch support and a stable base for standing all day. 

Why Do Podiatrists Like Hoka?

Podiatrists often recommend Hoka shoes because of their cushioning and support, which help reduce stress on the feet, ankles and joints. The brand’s signature thick midsoles provide shock absorption, and the rocker sole promotes a smooth stride. Hokas also come in a variety of styles to address specific foot conditions, like plantar fasciitis or flat feet.