Comfortable Shoes That Women Over 60 Will Love 2026

Where I live in Los Angeles, casual, comfortable shoes are standard year-round. It’s cool to be stylish, but after age 60 or so, sore and aging feet can cause serious problems with your posture and balance.

One fall could send you to the hospital for a hip or knee replacement. But even if nothing serious happens, you don’t want to end up with painful corns, bunions, or heel spurs that will ugly up your twinkle toes.

But that doesn’t mean we have to sacrifice looking fabulous! The right shoes can enhance your outfit, support your feet, and keep you walking confidently all day long.

Let’s look at some stylish and comfortable shoes and learn a few tips on how to shop for them.

What to look for in a comfort shoe

These are key features to consider when shopping for shoes that do not give you blisters as soon as you put them on.

• Proper Arch Support helps prevent foot pain and promotes posture.
• Cushioning reduces impact and protects your joints from stress.
• Stability and non-slip soles provide confidence when you are walking. I believe that stability is a prime factor to consider in shoes for anyone older.
• A style with a flattering shape and color will elevate any outfit.

Sneakers are being marketed with major cushioning, which can be heavy and even ugly. They may also be less stable, especially for seniors walking on uneven ground. For instance, Skechers sneakers feel comfortable at first, but the cushioning and support do not last.

Sneaker brands to consider if you have balance issues are:

• Asics Gel Kayano 32 – These are my favorite sneakers. They are cushioned but not overly so and are known for their stability.
• Hoka Women’s Arahi 8 – Excellent stability with supportive midsole tech and cushioning that’s gentle on the joints but keeps stride controlled.
• Brooks Women’s Adrenaline GTS 25 – Built-in stability tech to reduce excessive foot motion and improve balance during walks.
• New Balance Women’s WW577 Walking Shoes – Classic walking shoe with supportive cushioning and motion control features that help steady gait.
• Kuru Footwear Atom 2 – Highly rated for overall support and comfort; good if foot pain also contributes to balance issues.

Other brands to check out:

Vionic 23 Walk 2.0 Women’s Athletic, Vionic Women’s Walk Slim Glide, Ryka Women’s Devotion X One Planet Sneakers.

Determine what type of arch support you need

How to Do the Wet Paper Test (a.k.a. Wet Foot Test)

This is a super simple, at-home way to get a general idea of whether someone has a high arch, normal arch, or flat arch.

What you need

• A shallow dish or tray with water
• A paper grocery bag, thick construction paper, or a piece of cardboard
• A towel (because nobody wants soggy footprints all over the house)

Steps

1. Pour a little water into the tray — you only need enough to lightly wet the bottom of the foot.
   • You don’t want the foot dripping, just damp.
2. Step the foot into the water, getting the whole bottom of the foot moist — heel, ball, toes.
3. Step directly onto the paper with normal standing pressure.
   • Don’t lean forward or backward.
   • Don’t press extra hard.
     Just stand like you normally would.
4. Step off and look at the print.

How to read the footprint

Here’s where the magic happens:

1. Flat/Low Arch

• Most of the foot shows up in the print
• Little to no inward curve on the inside edge
• Looks almost like the entire sole touched the paper

This can indicate overpronation (your foot rolls inward when you walk).

2. Normal/Medium Arch

• A noticeable curve along the inside of the footprint
• About half the arch area shows
• The heel and forefoot are connected by a moderate-thickness band

This is the most common foot type.

3. High Arch

• Very narrow connection between the heel and forefoot
• Sometimes the arch area doesn’t show at all
• Print may look like two separate shapes (heel + forefoot) with a skinny line between them

This can indicate underpronation (your foot rolls outward when you walk).

Extra tips

• Do the test on both feet — it’s common to have slight differences.
• If someone has pain, swelling, or walking issues, this test is NOT diagnostic — it’s just a quick at-home indicator.
• A podiatrist can provide more accurate measurements if needed.

I always thought I had high arches, but after doing the test, I discovered I had flat feet.

Choose shoes to match your foot shape – read more here.

The best casual shoes for women over 60

Below are shoe types that offer you comfort, versatility, and safety while running errands or meeting friends for coffee.

• Most well-made and supportive sneakers beyond the hype – Brands to look for include those that operate with integrity, use the best materials, and offer excellent support and stability. Brands to look for are New Balance (made in the USA – privately owned), Saucony (built on performance over hype and durable), Asics (biomechanics and engineering for stability – Gel Kayano, Gel Nimbus), Salomon (made in USA, durable, foot-cradeling SensiFit technology and stability) Nike SB Dunk (excellent design and padding).

• Comfortable flats – Look for cushioned insoles and flexible soles. Brands to look for include Vionic (podiatrist-designed arch support is built into the sole unit itself), Ecco (owns everything from rawhide to finished the shoe), and Quince (real Italian leather at an affordable price). All have excellent construction and are worth every penny.
• Ballet flats with arch support – Rothys and Vionic design stylish flats that will support your feet all day.
• Best casual shoes are Birkenstock. They may be ugly, but they mold to your feet (takes about 2 weeks) with their cork latex footbed, and every part of them is replaceable forever. Made in Germany.

Comfy dress shoes for older women

Are you going to a wedding or party and don’t want to wear shoes that kill your feet? Here is what to look for.

• Low block heels – 1 1-2 inch block heel adds height without pain. Brands like Vionic and Margaux have flattering styles.
• Chic wedge sandals – Wedges provide height and stability and look lovely with summer dresses. Comfortable wedge sandals from brands like Toms or Naot fit the bill.
• Elegant kitten heels -Low heels look chic for formal events and are much safer than stilettos. Quince and Sam Edelman have stylish options.

Comfortable travel shoes for long-distance walking

Travel is fun, but not if your feet get blisters from walking. Comfort is key to enjoying your trip. Look for:

• Supportive walking shoes – Good walking shoes include sneakers, loafers, or ankle boots. If you are going to do a ton of walking, make sure you choose sturdy shoes with arch support and good tread to handle cobblestones, stairs, or uneven sidewalks. I found a pair of Kuru Roam Court Shoes in bone grey/cloud grey that offer excellent support and don’t look clunky. They are recommended if you suffer from plantar fasciitis, flat feet, and/or heel pain.

• Walking sandals – Birkenstock and Naot sandals are made for all-day comfort and stability, walking anywhere, even on cobblestones.
• Lightweight slip-ons make it easy to go through airport security and are easy to pack in a suitcase. Try Merrell or Toms.

The best boots to wear in cooler weather

During fall and winter, a sturdy pair of boots will keep your feet warm and cozy. Look for:

• Ankle boots with low heels – Ankle boots are easy to slip on and are versatile. For waterproof ankle boots, try Blondo or Vionic. For excellent work boots, Heritage Red Wing Boots are built to last forever using legacy leather.
• Knee-high boots with stretch panels – Look for high-quality knee-high boots that are easy to slip on. Flattering and comfortable styles can be found at Duoboots (made in Portugal using premium European leather) and Frye Boots (Heritage models are made in the USA using stitched on construction)
• Waterproof boots are necessary if you live in areas that experience rain or snow. Sorel and Ugg offer top-quality waterproof boots that are cozy and durable.

Shoe shopping tips for the best comfort outcome

• Buy shoes in the afternoon – Feet tend to swell during the day, so it is best to shop for shoes after you have been standing around for a while.
• Prioritize width and toe box space – A roomy toe box helps to prevent pinching and bunions.
• Invest in quality over quantity – Most of us are not Imelda Marcos. If you purchase a few pairs of well-made and classic-style footwear, they will last longer than a closet full of cheap, trendy shoes.

Wear Insoles for more support

A good set of insoles will help you stay more comfortable in your shoes and offer you support. As we age, our feet weaken, so it’s important to be choosy about what we wear on our feet.

A podiatrist can fit you with custom orthotics, but often they are expensive. Those on Medicare with a diagnosis of diabetes can get them for free.

For those who do not have diabetes and are on a budget, you can purchase insoles online. One of my favorites is Dr. Scholl’s Tri-Comfort Orthotic Inserts for Women. They come in shoe sizes, so there is no need to cut them, and they feel great!

You can also find your custom insole from Dr. Scholl’s by taking a quiz on its website, here. I like the 3/4 length because I don’t have to trim them.

Benefits include:

• Comfort and cushioning for extended periods on your feet.
• Arch support for all arch types.
• Pain relief for foot, leg, and back fatigue.
• Reduces stress on joints during activity.

Best shoes for all-day city walking

The Brooks Addiction Walker 2 is an excellent choice for senior women due to its exceptional stability, maximum support, and slip-resistant soles, which enhance safety and reduce falls. They feature robust arch support and can be worn all-day Brooks uses four technologies for stability and comfort. BioMoGo DNA Cushioning, PDRB for arch support, MC Pod Configuration for stabilization, and Slip-Resistant Outsole.

Asics Gel Kayano 32 is what I wore on my trip to Paris averaging 18.000 steps per day. It is a premiere choice for senior women due to its superior stability, maximum cushioning, and wide, supportive base designed to reduce joint strain and overpronation. It’s cushioning is designed for comfort without being over the top. Asics uses its PureGEL technology which acts like shock absorbers to guide your stride and avoid falls.

Brooks Ariel GTS are very firm with excellent support. If you have ankle issues, it will almost feel like you’re wearing a brace. They have a wide and deep toebox, which helps if your feet swell. Ariel GTS shoes are diabetic-certified and are made with GuideRails technology to keep you in your natural motion path.

Other brands I love

Dr. Scholl’s is tops for supportive shoes, and I love my Time Off Sneakers and also brought them on my Paris trip. I used them as my “dress sneakers!” They come in a variety of colors. Mine were champagne colored.

These elegant and sleek Vionic Winny sneakers are supremely comfortable and stylish. They are made of low-top leather featuring Vionic’s proprietary VIO MOTION technology, which includes built-in orthotic support, contoured arch support, a deep heel cup for stability, and shock-absorbing cushioning.

Orthofeet sneakers will solve over 20 major foot issues and come in flattering colors. They are made of stretch knit and have premium orthotic insoles and adjustable arch support. Many podiatrists recommend them.

Must have loafers

I can’t say enough about my Vionic Women’s Uptown Loafers. I bought them in Camel and they are 100% leather with a removable EVA cushioned insole. Vionic The brand’s proprietary Vio Motion Technology has built-in arch support, cushioning, a deep heel cup for stability, and a flexible sole making them extra comfortable. They are packable and recommended by podiatrists. The brand also follows an EcoPledge to reduce its carbon footprint.

G. H. Bass only get better and are classic and timeless Penny Loafers. They feature premium leather uppers and outsoles, hand-sewn details, and a traditional, molded 180-degree construction. Their shoes mold to your feet over time for a custom fit. For support, some of its designs feature dual-density foam or padded insoles to absorb shock. You can enjoy these babies for years.

These Whitney Weejuns® Penny Loafers are bestsellers and come in several colors.

Add extra interest to your loafer’s look by wearing a cool pair of argyle socks.

Casual espadrilles

Tom’s Shoes offers a wide variety of espadrilles, and it is a give-back company that donates part of its proceeds to charities. They feature cushioned insoles and lightweight, breathable uppers made from materials like recycled canvas or suede.

Ballet Flats and Mary Janes

Ballet flats are comfortable, flat shoes for casual or dressy occasions. I love a comfortable and supportive pair of Mary Janes because I know they will stay on my feet.

Margaux The Demi Jane has the look of both and is worth the investment. They come in medium, narrow, and wide in a variety of colors and patterns.

Vionic’s Larissa Wedge Flat is another winner and more affordable. They come in leather or suede and are made with Vionic’s Vio Motion™ Technology for comfort and stability.

Sandals for sun lovers

The most important thing I look for when choosing sandals is to find a pair I won’t fall out of. Nothing can ruin your day or a trip like having a klutzy toe-jamming experience from shoes that malfunction.

I also need cushioned, supportive sandals, or my feet will start to ache. I bought a pair of Orthofeet Black Paloma sandals, and I love that they have arch support and an arch support booster for even greater comfort. They are recommended for those with diabetes, plantar fasciitis, and arthritis.

Another pair I bought and am loving are Clarks Arla Shore Flat Sandals. They have great cushioning and feel amazing! These sandals feature Clarks’ signature Cloudsteppers design with a cushioned foam footbed and an ultra-light EVA sole for all-day wear. I can attest that they feel like I’m walking on a cloud.

According to many podiatrists, Teva Hurricane XLT2 is number one on the list for walking sandals and they will last forever. They have FloatLite technology that makes them excellent for various terrains, including wet and dry surfaces.

These Archie Arch Support Flip Flops have been saving my feet around the house. My feet were getting sore, which was affecting my knees. When I wear my Archies, my feet and knees feel great!

Archies offer orthotic arch support is made with a specialized closed-cell foam that molds to the foot for a custom and comfortable fit. They provide up to 1 inch of arch support to promote optimal foot posture and alignment to help alleviate plantar fasciitis pain. I have never felt such comfort in any other flip-flop.

Hiking boots

There is no reason not to hike when you’re over 50, but make sure your boots are sturdy so you don’t fall. Merrell Moab Speed 2 boots blend the cushioning of a sneaker with the support of a traditional hiking boot. They feature FloatPro foam, which is a soft, lightweight material that absorbs shock and helps reduce foot fatigue. You can find them at REI.

What are your favorite brands of comfortable shoes and why? Please leave a comment below.