These Podiatrist- and Editor-Recommended Flats Are Beyond Comfortable (2024)

After transversing New York City (and Maine, and Florida) in these sandals over the summer, I can confidently recommend them for their comfort. With perhaps the softest footbeds I’ve ever experienced, these flats have a bit of lift (which Greenberg mentions to look for) and a sturdy sole. While I wouldn’t recommend getting caught in the rain in these (a suede-like footbed and leather straps don’t play well with water), these have been my go-to shoes for months.

Sharkey recommends Revitalign’s flats for their “podiatrist-designed orthotic footbed [and] great support.” Available in three colorways (bleached sand, blue stone, and iron gate) and in sizes 6-12, these comfy flats are a great option.

There’s a reason Megan Markle loves this shoe brand (yes, they’re royalty-approved!). And tens of thousands of reviewers agree. With over 35,000 ratings and nearly five stars on the brand’s website, these flats come in wide and medium widths and are available in half sizes from 5-13, making it easier to find your perfect fit. “Love that they have wide sizes, been hearing great things about birdies and knew I had to get some. The normal sizes were a bit narrow but I’m glad the wide is back,” writes one satisfied customer.

Long favorited by podiatrists, Birkenstocks may be some of the most comfortable flats on the market. The brand’s contoured cork footbed molds to the shape of your foot. Meanwhile, major arch support with an extra layer of super-soft foam cushioning and a deep heel cup and roomy toe box makes these super comfy. We even named an iteration of these sandals as the best shoes for wide feet.

“Hoka is leading the way in cushioning and comfort right now in the shoe market,” Sharkey previously told Prevention for our roundup of the best walking shoes for women. One of the most cushioned options in Hoka’s lineup, the Bondi 8 uses an EVA midsole for a plush feel. “These will make activity feel like you are walking on clouds!” says Sharkey. And they come in 20 colorways and in sizes 5-11. They also feature an OrthoLite hybrid sock liner, per the brand.

“They have the perfect level of all-over cushioning and arch support, and the toe box hugs my toes without being too tight/squished while standing, while still allowing for the natural spreading that occurs when we walk to prevent blisters or pain,” says Alyssa Jung, senior editor, health newsroom. “I have small, narrow feet, so finding flats that fit is a tough job and I usually strike out, but these are never at risk for slipping off while I walk.”

While this shoe is definitely an investment, Sharkey recommends Marion Parke for the brand’s “splurge-worthy high-end flats with patented insole support.” According to the brand, its triple I insole helps center the heel of the foot over the heel of the shoe, adapts to the natural curve of your foot, optimizes fit, increases stability, and reduces fatigue and pressure on the ball of the foot.

I’ve spent upwards of 500 hours wearing these boots all over NYC, and they’re still my go-to. Though these are expensive, they’ll last for many seasons. And they pair perfectly with just about everything. Made with a leather upper and a rubber lug sole (which Greenberg recommends looking for in a comfortable flat), these are great fall and winter boots. Though these have a 1.8-inch height, their platform style makes them feel like flats.

With over 5,600 ratings and nearly five stars on the brand’s website, Allbirds’ Tree Breezers are a customer favorite and we can see why. These machine-washable ballet flats feature a fitted collar to ensure they stay on your feet with each step. Available in eight colors and sizes 5-11, there are plenty of options to choose from. “Love these flats! After bunion surgery, I have sensitive areas in my feet, and these are so comfy,” writes one shopper. “[I have] three colors now. Great shoes!”

We spoke with Anne Sharkey, D.P.M., a podiatrist at North Austin Foot & Ankle Institute for recommendations; and Paul Greenberg, D.P.M., a podiatrist at NYU Langone Podiatry, for what to look for when buying the most comfortable flats. We read through hundreds of user reviews and had editors share their go-to comfortable flats.

For more than 70 years, Prevention has been a leading provider of trustworthy health information, empowering readers with practical strategies to improve their physical, mental, and emotional well-being. Our editors interview medical experts to help guide our health-focused product selections. Additionally, Prevention also examines hundreds of reviews—and often conducts personal testing done by our staff—to help you make informed decisions.