Whether you stand as part of your job, travel or regular lifestyle, a comfortable yet supportive shoe is essential. That’s why I’ve rounded up the best shoes for standing all day. After talking with experts and consulting Forbes Vetted staffers, my top pick is the Hoka Clifton 9, a trainer that sports loads of cushioning for unrivaled support. If you prefer a slip-on shoe that’s easy to take on and off, the On Cloud 5 is another great choice. It’s lightweight and versatile enough to wear to the gym, work and everywhere in between.
The best shoes for standing all day are supportive and comfortable to reduce foot fatigue.
Certain features like a cushioned midsole and durable materials are crucial for keeping you comfortable and supported. “Generally, we consider arch height, heel drop, heel stack, material and width,” says Dr. Chloe Costigan, PT, of Mobility-Doc. We took all of these factors into consideration when evaluating our list of contenders, and made sure to include picks that cater to specific needs. Here, the nine best shoes for standing all day that we recommend.
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Best Shoes For Standing All Day: Hoka Clifton 9
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Best Arch Support Shoes For Standing All Day: Kuru Atom 2
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Best Slip-On Shoes For Standing All Day: On Cloud 5
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Best Hoka Shoes For Standing All Day: Hoka Bondi 8
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Best Budget Shoes For Standing All Day: Skechers Slip-ins Work Summits
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Best Shoes For Standing On Concrete All Day: Brooks Ghost Max 2
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Best Shoes For Walking And Standing All Day: New Balance Fresh Foam X 880v14
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Best Non-Slip Shoes For Standing All Day: New Balance 626v2
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Best Clogs For Standing All Day: Dansko XP 2.0
Sizes: Women’s 5 to 12, men’s 7 to 16 | Colors: 19 | Heel-to-toe drop: 5mm | Upper materials: Recycled polyester, recycled nylon | Weight: 8.7 ounces
Pros:
- Breathable upper
- Balanced cushioning
- Lots of colors to choose from
Cons:
- Stack height might feel unstable
- Not as supportive as the Hoka Bondi
It’s no shocker that the Hoka Clifton 9 earned the top spot on this guide. It’s wildly popular among runners, walkers and really anyone who wants to take good care of their feet. “More and more nurses and physicians are wearing them in the hospital,” adds Costigan. The cushioning is next-level—like walking on clouds—and the breathable mesh upper makes the experience even more comfortable, especially if you’re standing for hours at a time. I’ve been wearing the Clifton lineup for years, and while it used to be my go-to running shoe, now I wear it just about everywhere. It’s even the first shoe I pack for travel because, at this point, I know it’ll keep my feet happy no matter how long I’m standing.
That said, the Clifton 9 has a pretty tall stack height, which might feel a little wobbly if you’re not used to it. If that sounds like a dealbreaker, the Hoka Bondi 8 could be a better fit. It’s just as cushy but offers a bit more stability. If you need help deciding between the two, I’ve put together a guide that breaks down the differences between the Clifton and Bondi to make it easier.
Sizes: Women’s 5 to 12, men’s 7 to 15 | Colors: 4 total including Jet Black-Dessert Tan and Night Blue-Teal | Heel-to-toe drop: 10 mm | Upper materials: Mesh | Weight: 11.4 ounces
Pros:
- Specifically designed to hug the heel and support the foot’s arch
- Airy mesh upper for breathability
Cons:
- May take longer than other options to fully break in
If you’re searching for a shoe that excels at providing ankle, heel and arch support, we 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 these shoes a bit stiff at first so keep in mind they may take longer to fully break in.
Sizes: Women’s 5 to 11, men’s 7 to 14 | Colors: 16 total including Shell/White and Fig/Quartz | Heel-to-toe drop: 7mm | Upper materials: 44% recycled content | Weight: 7.2 ounces
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 5 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 has a cushioned, lightweight midsole and soft, breathable upper to keep your feet comfortable and cool.
However, if you’re someone who needs a lot of arch support or stability for intense physical activity, the Cloud 5 might not be the best fit. Its cushioning is more geared toward light support, so if you require extra structure, you might want to look elsewhere or consider adding custom insoles. But for everyday wear, this shoe offers a great balance of convenience and comfort.
Sizes: Women’s 5 to 12, men’s 7 10 16 | Colors: 15 total including Cream/Vanilla and Stardust/Lettuce | Heel-to-toe drop: 4mm | Upper materials: Mesh | Weight: 10.8 ounces
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
Alongside the Hoka Clifton 9, the Bondi 8 shoes are among the brand’s most sought-after models—and for good reason. The thick foam sole provides a cloud-like feel, while the rear crash pad helps absorb the impact of more vigorous heel-to-toe movements. The Bondi’s also feature a memory foam collar that hugs the ankle for greater support and stability, and a breathable mesh upper layer to keep your feet cool. As a result of these features, they’re comfortable enough to wear all day without aches or pains.
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. That said, they are heavier than the Clifton 9 at 10.8 ounces compared to Clifton’s 8.7 ounces. If you prefer a more lightweight option, the Clifton 9’s are a better choice.
US Skechers
Skechers Slip-ins Work Summits
Sizes: Women’s 5 to 11, men’s 7 to 12 | Colors: Black | Heel-to-toe drop: Not listed | Upper materials: Knit mesh, synthetic material | 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 what you need. 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 come with a slip-resistant sole and are electrical hazard-rated to keep you safe on the jobsite. Plus, Skechers adds a hands-free collar lining, making it easy to slip them on and off without bending down.
Of course, budget shoes sometimes come with durability concerns—it’s often true that you get what you pay for. But 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.
Sizes: Women’s 5 to 12, men’s 7 to 15 | Colors: 10 | Heel-to-toe drop: 6mm | Upper materials: Mesh, 54.9% recycled materials | Weight: 10.8 ounces
Pros:
- Nitrogen-infused DNA Loft v3 cushioning delivers unrivaled comfort
- Rocker-style sole propels you forward
- Elevated side walls add stability
Cons:
- Neutral support may not work with all foot types
Standing on your feet for hours is tough enough, but doing it on hard surfaces like concrete takes things to another level. That’s where the Brooks Ghost Max 2 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. Plus, with over half the upper made from recycled materials and a CarbonNeutral certification, this shoe’s eco-friendly design lets you feel good about adding it to your rotation.
When testing the Ghost Max 2 for our guide to the best walking shoes for men, Forbes Vetted staffer Luke Fater compared it to the original Ghost Max. He praised the second generation for its “even softer landing” and its expanded color options. However, he did point out that the shoe’s weight becomes noticeable after a few hours, though its balanced design keeps it from feeling clunky or awkward. For anyone dealing with unforgiving surfaces, this shoe is a standout option.
New Balance
New Balance Fresh Foam X 880v14
Sizes: Women’s 5 to 13, men’s 7 to 16 | Colors: 4 | Heel-to-toe drop: 8mm | Upper materials: Mesh | Weight: 7.4 ounces
Pros:
- Mesh upper boosts breathability
- Available in four widths—narrow, standard, wide and extra-wide
Cons:
- Not available in many colors
If you do a mix of standing and walking during your days, the New Balance Fresh Foam X 880v14 has you covered. Its dual-layer Fresh Foam X midsole is cushy but not overly soft, giving you that sweet spot between comfort and support. Essentially, your feet will feel great, even after hours of wear, without that dreaded sinking feeling that some extra-plush shoes can cause. The breathable mesh upper keeps things cool, and the padded collar adds a nice touch of snug comfort. Bonus points go to its timeless design, which works just as well for running errands or grabbing lunch as it does for long walks.
With that said, the 880v14 is a neutral shoe, so if you need extra arch support or stability features, it might not be the best match. It’s also available in very few colors. But for most people, it’s an all-day workhorse that feels just as good at hour one as it does at hour ten.
New Balance
New Balance 626v2
Sizes: Women’s 5 to 13, men’s 7 to 18 | Colors: 1 | Heel-to-toe drop: 10mm | Upper materials: Leather | Weight: 8.3 ounces
Pros:
- Non-slip outsole boosts traction
- Available in four widths—standard, wide, extra-wide and XX-wide
- Inclusive sizing
Cons:
- Only available in one color
- 10mm drop might be too extreme for some
If you’re standing all day in a fast-paced environment where spills or slick floors are part of the job, the New Balance 626v2 is an excellent choice. Designed as a work shoe, it features a non-slip rubber outsole that’s built to keep you steady, even on slippery surfaces. Whether you’re a restaurant server dashing between tables, a healthcare worker hustling through hospital hallways or a retail employee on your feet for hours, this shoe has your back (and your balance). The 626v2 comes with Abzorb cushioning in the midsole to absorb impact and reduce foot fatigue, and the leather upper adds durability and makes the shoe easy to clean—great for messy jobs where spills are common.
The fit is roomy enough for those who like to add custom insoles, too. Style isn’t anything to write home about but that’s often the case when it comes to non-slip work shoes. All in all, the 626v2 is a reliable, no-frills option that keeps you grounded and comfortable.
Sizes: Women’s 4.5 to 13, men’s 8.5 to 14 | Colors: 7 total | Heel-to-toe drop: Not listed | Upper materials: Leather, waterproof leather (select styles) | 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 people 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 a concern. The roomy toe box gives your feet plenty of space to spread out, reducing discomfort and fatigue, and the durable leather upper ensures these clogs 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 shoes, so if you prefer a sleeker, less substantial feel, opt for a traditional trainer instead.
The Best Shoes For Standing All Day Compared
The best shoes for standing all day come in a variety of styles, sizes and weights. To help you determine the right option for you, we break down how our top picks stack up across key specs like materials, weight and more.
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 a hospital emergency room for two years and spent countless hours on his feet during multiple 12-hour shifts per week. Vigliotta has covered a wide variety of footwear, including guides to the best walking shoes for men and the best work boots for men.
- Forbes Vetted deputy editor Kari Molvar oversees this guide and our publication’s extensive library of footwear content. With her background as a fashion editor and experienced runner, Molvar has researched, tested and written about everything from walking shoes to flats.
- To better understand what makes a shoe ideal for standing all day, we consulted Dr. Chloe Costigan at Mobility-Doc of Bethlehem, Pennsylvania, to learn more about fit, cushioning, support and durability.
- Our team regularly revisits this guide to reevaluate our recommendations and provide the most up-to-date advice. It was last updated by Forbes Vetted gear updates writer Alexandra Garrett to add the Kuru Atom 2 and Hoka Bondi 8 to our list.
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. And finally, I 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.
What To Consider In 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. 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.
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.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
On Cloud 5, for example, is a lightweight option with CloudTec cushioning that keeps your feet comfortable and energized. For those in need of extra cushioning, the Hoka Clifton 9 offers plush support and a wide, stable base, making it ideal for standing, walking or running.
Hoka Clifton 9 and On Cloud 5. 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. These features are designed to help distribute weight, reduce pressure and minimize fatigue. Breathable materials and roomy toe boxes also prevent issues like blisters or swelling due to long hours of wear.
