45 Bougie But Cheap Shoes That Podiatrists Swear By

“Retro-inspired sneakers with cushioned midsoles pair easily with casual outfits while still offering shock absorption that supports long walks,” says Dr. Samantha Landau, DPM, and assistant professor at Touro New York College of Podiatric Medicine. This lace-up pair’s contrasting nylon and faux suede textures deliver on chic vintage style. The 1.8-inch platform midsole gets in on the retro vibes too, and it’s crafted from cushy EVA foam that’ll keep you comfy all day long.

• Available sizes: 6 — 11
• Available colors: 11

Designed with an arch-supporting memory foam insole, these moccasin-style loafers have the foot-friendly features championed by Dr. Nicole Freels at Lexington Podiatry. “You always want to look for shoes with a contoured or removable insole,” says Dr. Freels. Raised stitching and gold-toned hardware elevate the smooth faux leather.

• Available sizes: 6 — 14 (available in wide widths)
• Available colors: 11

According to Dr. Peter Talisse, podiatric foot and ankle surgery specialist at Ankle & Foot Centers of America, there are foot-friendly details that can be found, even on a budget. “Look for shoes with some level of padding or memory foam,” says Talisse. “Cushioning helps absorb impact and reduces stress on the feet, ankles, and knees.” Crafted from real suede, these loafers deliver treat-yourself style with cushy memory foam insoles that offer the support Talisse recommends.

• Available sizes: 5.5 — 11
• Available colors: 8

“Shoes should provide support without feeling stiff or clunky. Too much flexibility means your feet are doing all the work,” says Dr. Michelle Yoakim, DPM at University Foot and Ankle Institute. Crafted from structured canvas, these classic white sneakers will always be in style — and they’re designed with cushioned insoles for a comfy step. Plus, the grippy rubber outsoles to provide stable tread.

• Available sizes: 6 — 13 (available in wide widths)
• Available colors: 30

For Dr. Peter Talisse, at Ankle & Foot Centers of America, a customized fit is an important feature when shoe-shopping. “Adjustable straps, laces, or structured uppers help keep the foot stable inside the shoe, reducing the risk of rubbing, blisters, and poor mechanics,” says Dr. Talisse. With their adjustable elastic laces, these faux leather ballet sneakers allow you to tailor the fit to your feet — and they’re ultra on-trend.

• Available sizes: 6 — 11
• Available colors: 5

When shopping for shoes, one of the features Dr. Bruce Pinker, DPM, at New York-based Progressive Foot Care looks for is leather uppers and a heel height under 2.5 inches — and this pair of Squish slides is rendered in stunning real suede with a low-profile heel that clock in under 0.8 inches. With a deep heel cup and an extra-cushioned footbed, these instantly elevate your shoe collection, with a design that will hold up season after season.

• Available sizes: 5.5 — 12
• Available colors: 7

You can’t miss with these sneakers; the white shade is a classic, and they feature a roomy toe box — a feature Dr.Michelle Yoakim, at University Foot and Ankle Institute, considers essential for preventing foot issues. “Crowded toes can increase the risk of bunions, ingrown nails, and nerve irritation,” says Yoakim. Designed with a breathable mesh upper and a cushioned EVA midsole, these are both chic and wearable.

• Available sizes: 6.5 — 14 Wide
• Available colors: 3

With chunky 1.9-inch platform soles, these faux leather loafers deliver on chic style, and they’ve got a comfy padded insole for the ultimate in wearability. Also important is their stable heel counter, which is a must for Dr. Michelle Yoakim at University Foot and Ankle Institute. “A stable heel keeps the foot aligned and reduces strain on the ankle, Achilles tendon, and plantar fascia,” says Yoakim.

• Available sizes: 5 — 11
• Available colors: 5

Crafted from smooth faux leather and topped with a sweet bow, these ballet flats look so high-end; they also boast a padded insole for arch support. “A contoured or supportive footbed can help maintain alignment and reduce fatigue, especially for people with flat feet or high arches” says Dr. Peter Talisse at Ankle & Foot Centers of America. This pair makes a stylish and supportive choice.

• Available sizes: 6 — 11
• Available colors: 8

According to board-certified podiatrist Mike Daniels, DPM, and president and chief medical officer at WeTreatFeet Podiatry, look for: “molded, arch-supporting footbeds and deep heel cups.” These trendy clogs boast those features — and they’re crafted with a real suede upper with an adjustable buckle. Offering cult-favorite style at a fraction of the cost, it’s no wonder these have over 7,000 five-star ratings.

• Available sizes: 5.5 — 13.5-14
• Available colors: 9

According to board-certified podiatrist Dr. Nelya Lobkova, founder of Step Up Footcare in New York City, “If there is pain in the ball of the foot, including people who have bunions, hammertoes, or neuroma/neuritis pain, an open or a wider toe box, instead of a narrow, triangle toe box is recommended. This will diminish crowding in the front of the foot.” These minimalist sneakers give you plenty of wiggle room with a wide toe box and zero-drop design that mimics the natural shape of your feet. The grippy, natural-toned gum sole offers added stability and contrast.

• Available sizes: 6.5 — 14
• Available colors: 2

Dr. Samantha Landau, DPM, calls these sneakers “classic” and “retro-inspired”, praising the comfortable memory foam cushioning and shock-absorbing sole. “The roomy toe box and moderate cushioning make them a good pick for all-day comfort,” she says. As chic as they are practical, the chunky silhouette looks like something you’d spy on a fashion editor, and this pair boasts a near-perfect 4.6-star rating.

• Available sizes: 5 — 11 (available in wide widths)
• Available colors: 1

If you’re on the hunt for cozy boots, Dr. Mike Daniels at WeTreatFeet Podiatry suggests this pair. They feature a chic and practical water-resistant leather upper, and the most luxe faux fur lining, plus other doctro-approved features, like “a thicker, more rigid sole, some cushioning inside, and a shaft that actually supports the ankle.”

• Available sizes: 6 — 11
• Available colors: 4

When looking for walking shoes, Dr. Mike Daniels at WeTreatFeet Podiatry favors “shoes that have a thicker, shock-absorbing sole and a breathable upper,” like these slip-on sneakers, crafted from breathable mesh. Daniels adds, “I pay attention to details like a cushioned, full-length midsole [and] a heel that’s a little higher than the forefoot [...]” This sporty pair contains these features, while looking chic as hell.

• Available sizes: 5.5 — 10
• Available colors: 10

When it comes to quiet luxury, you can’t beat a boat shoe — and this pair has everything Dr. Bruce Pinker at Progressive Foot Care, finds important: “leather uppers, a closed heel for added stability, and rubber outsoles.” The rich vegetable-tanned upper is accented by an adjustable tie for comfort and raised stitching to really up the luxe factor.

• Available sizes: 5.5 — 12
• Available colors: 2

With a molded cork footbed with real suede insoles, these sandals fit the shopping criteria of Dr. Katelyn Cleypool, DPM, with Foot and Ankle Specialists of West Michigan. Cleypool suggests choosing “a contoured footbed that includes arch support and light heel cupping.” This pair checks those boxes with a cradling footbed and rich faux leather straps that come with adjustable buckle for a dialed-in fit. It’s no surprise they’re a shopper favorite, boasting thousands of perfect five-star ratings.

• Available sizes: 5 — 12 (available in wide widths)
• Available colors: 12

For Dr. Bruce Pinker, at Progressive Foot Care, a shoe’s material matters. “Materials that are preferred include leather uppers,” says Pinker, and “a closed heel for added stability, and rubber outsoles for aded traction/grip to prevent slippage.” In gorgeously textured real suede with a cushioned footbed, these lace-up sneakers offer incredible comfort for such luxe style.

• Available sizes: 5 — 11
• Available colors: 6

When it comes to sneakers, Dr. Katelyn Cleypool at Foot and Ankle Specialists, favors “classic low-profile sneakers with supportive midsoles such as fashion-forward walking sneakers or minimalist trainers with a built-in arch support.” This pair’s cushioned insoles offer plenty of comfy support, along with faux suede trim that looks incredibly high-end; grippy rubber outsoles keep you stable while contributing to the retro appeal.

• Available sizes: 6 — 11 (available in wide widths)
• Available colors: 12

According to Dr. Katelyn Cleypool at Foot and Ankle Specialists, the buckle detail on these mules is more than merely chic. “Adjustable buckles allow for a more customized fit, which improves stability and reduces friction during walking” says Cleypool; silver-toned grommets and a pointed toe only up the high-end appeal.

• Available sizes: 5 — 11
• Available colors: 12

If you’re looking for sneakers that are supportive but not boring, try out this pair, recommended by Dr. Katelyn Cleypool. Featuring a cushioned 1.8-inch platform midsole and grippy rubber outsole, they’ll keep you stable and comfy — and the knit tweed texture is a fashion-forward detail that’ll set your look apart.

• Available sizes: 5 — 12
• Available colors: 11

Quilted faux leather gives these slip-on sneaker-style loafers a luxe twist. Recommended by Dr. Katelyn Cleypool at Foot and Ankle Specialists, their low profile and comfortable foam insoles fit the features she looks for in a shoe — and they boast over 7,000 five-star ratings from shoppers.

• Available sizes: 6 — 11 (available in wide widths)
• Available colors: 10

When it comes to sandals, Dr. Nicole Freels, double board-certified foot and ankle expert at Lexington Podiatry, looks for “adjustable straps only,” reasoning that this allows “your foot to actually fit into the sandal.” In addition to customizable buckle straps, this EVA-foam crafted pair features a chunky molded footbed that’s as stylish as it is comfy.

• Available sizes: 6 — 11
• Available colors: 5

“This footwear is constructed to offer added stability, cushioned ambulation, and has significant traction on the outsole” says Dr. Bruce Pinker. Crafted from real leather, with jolts of contrasting black, these are an elevated addition to your casual looks.

• Available sizes: 5 — 14 (available in wide widths)
• Available colors: 1

Crafted from real nappa leather, with a padded footbed and a square toe accented by a sweet bow, these ballet flats are devastatingly on-trend yet thoroughly classic. They’ve also got what Dr. Bruce Pinker looks for in a foot-friendly shoe: “a closed heel for added stability, and rubber outsoles for aded traction/grip to prevent slippage.”

• Available sizes: 5.5 — 12
• Available colors: 6

For warm-weather looks, Dr. Katelyn Cleypool suggests these T-strap sandals. Designed with a shock-absorbing EVA midsole and a contoured foot bed, Cleypool says they “offer reliable support without sacrificing style.” And the real leather straps look and feel ultra high-end — with soft, elastic bands that stretch for the perfect fit.

• Available sizes: 5 — 13 (available in wide widths)
• Available colors: 6

“If shoes that are completely flat, too flexible, or extremely soft without any structure, they will break down fast and offer little support,” says Jerick Sobie, certified pedorthist and co-owner of Lucky Feet Shoes. Crafted from stunning faux patent leather, these structured loafers feature a chunky 1.8-inch lug sole that adds comfy elevation — and major style points. Plus, they come with foam at the forefoot for an extra bit of support.

• Available sizes: 6 — 11
• Available colors: 7

“Structured mules are making a strong comeback,” says Dr. Katelyn Cleypool, and she recommends this pair for its “thoughtful design elements.” Crafted from sleek faux leather, with a 2-inch block heel, she calls them “surprisingly walkable while still looking polished.”

• Available sizes: 5 — 11
• Available colors: 8

Boat shoes are having a moment, and Dr. Jenifer Perez, DC, and cofounder of Gait Happens, recommends this specific pair. According to Perez, you want to look for “[options] that offer a wide toe box with style that can keep up with your wardrobe,” and this pair also features adjustable elastic laces and a breathable knit upper that looks and feels splurge-worthy.

• Available sizes: 5.5 — 10.5 (available in wide widths)
• Available colors: 5

You’d never guess these sneakers are so accessible, given that they’re constructed from real leather. Dr. Jenifer Perez of Gait Happens recommends this specific pair for their wide toe box; your toes will have plenty of room to splay, and the minimal lace-up design and natural-toned gum sole will look chic with tons of looks.

• Available sizes: 5.5 — 10.5 Wide
• Available colors: 5

“You always want to look for shoes with a contoured or removable insole,” says Dr. Nicole Freels at Lexington Podiatry. With arch support and contoured memory foam insoles, these Mary Janes meet her criteria — and the sleek faux patent leather and square toe are the epitome of chic.

• Available sizes: 5 — 11
• Available colors: 7

For Dr. Nicole Freels, adjustable straps are a must-have in sandals. “These allow your foot to actually fit into the sandal as opposed to forcing your foot to adapt to the shoe,” she says. Crafted from faux leather, this pair’s criss-cross design is elevated yet simple, with molded arch support and a slightly elevated heel offering wearable comfort.

• Available sizes: 5.5 — 10.5
• Available colors: 7

Real suede trim and natural-toned gum soles give these sneakers a pricey vibe — and they won’t pinch your toes. This detail is an essential for Dr. Jenifer Perez of Gait Happens, who champions “options that offer a wide toe box with style that can keep up with your wardrobe.” These feature a design that also encourages ankle mobility.

• Available sizes: 5.5 — 10.5 Wide
• Available colors:

According to Dr. Mike Daniels at WeTreatFeet Podiatry you don’t have to spend a ton for chic, comfy sandals; he looks for details like “arch-supporting footbeds,” which can be found in this pair. Featuring an adjustable gold-tone buckle at the ankle and a contoured insole, the strappy design maximizes bougie style and wearability.

• Available sizes: 6 — 11 (available in wide widths)
• Available colors: 3

Dr. Nicole Freels at Lexington Podiatry is a fan of Clarks’ stylish, practical designs. With a cushioned footbed and sleek, breathable upper, these slip-on loafers boast the precise details she’s looking for: “Adequate arch support as well as shock absorbing materials that make a real difference when you're standing on your feet for long periods of time.”

• Available sizes: 4.5 — 12 (available in wide widths)
• Available colors: 5

Dr. Nicole Freels at Lexington Podiatry describes these shoes as having “a clean fashion-forward look” — and that pearly trim is eye-catching. Crafted from faux leather and canvas, she also praises their wearability, saying they have “that built in arch support and cushioning that works well for just about everyday use.”

• Available sizes: 6.5 — 12 (available in wide widths)
• Available colors: 4

“If you want something more lightweight and an athletic-style shoe, then go for the Skechers Arch Fit,” says Dr. Nicole Freels at Lexington Podiatry. With a removable insole and cushioned midsole, Freels finds the classic canvas design “supportive and easy to wear.” If you’re on the hunt for a great walking shoe for everyday or travel, this is it.

• Available sizes: 5 — 11 (available in wide widths)
• Available colors: 7

When it comes to these versatile sandals, “They're more supportive than they look,” says Dr. Nicole Freels at Lexington Podiatry. Featuring cushioned, shock-absorbing foam insoles and soft, adjustable hook-and-loop straps, Freels says “the materials tend to be more forgiving for different foot shapes.”

• Available sizes: 5 — 12 (available in wide widths)
• Available colors: 2

If you’ve got high arches, take the advice of Dr. Nelya Lobkova of Step Up Footcare, and choose shoes with a higher heel to toe drop, like these. “This offset allows for less strain on the Achilles tendon,” says Dr. Lobkova. Designed with a wide toe box, the lightweight mesh upper offers breathable comfort — and looks stylish as hell. With that chunky, cushioned EVA midsole, these are going to be everyday MVPs.

• Available sizes: 5.5 — 10.5 Wide
• Available colors: 4

According to Dr. Nelya Lobkova at Step Up Footcare, “[If] there is arch or heel pain [...] a shoe that has a thick midsole or rocker bottom is an ideal shoe.” This pair of lace-up sneakers features a curved outsole with a 2-inch rocker platform — stylish and statement-making, while still meeting Dr. Lobkova’s criteria.

• Available sizes: 5 — 10
• Available colors: 8

With a 2.8-inch block heel and a triple-layer insole for arch support, these might be the most foot-friendly dress shoes ever. Crafted from smooth faux leather, they feature a firm heel counter, which, according to Dr. Nelya Lobkova of Step Up Footcare “diminishes pain and inflammation in the heel and arch of the foot, which are both associated with walking injury.”

• Available sizes: 5 — 11 (available in wide widths)
• Available colors: 6

Along with a closed heel and an adjustable ankle strap, these shoes feature a 1.6-inch heel, which matches with the advice of Dr. Bruce Pinker: “It is best to keep heel heights up to a maximum of 2.5 inches in height.” Crafted from sleek faux patent leather, with a square toe, they’re the ultimate comfy party shoes.

• Available sizes: 6 — 9.5
• Available colors: 3

Dr. Mike Daniels at WeTreatFeet Podiatry, gets that finding chic, accessible boots can be tricky. Crafted from gleaming faux leather, with a 1.8-inch block heel, and a 13.7-inch shaft, these moto-inspired boots come at an amazing price, and match Dr. Daniels’ musts: “stable, structured [...] a thicker, more rigid sole, some cushioning inside, and a shaft that actually supports the ankle.”

• Available sizes: 6 — 11
• Available colors: 3

Designed with memory foam insoles and chunky, shock-absorbing midsoles, these sneakers brim with stylish and comfy details. Dr. Samantha Landau recommends them for the way they “balance cushioning, support, and casual style” — and the cream-toned version shown here is a chic alternative to a brighter white.

• Available sizes: 5.5 — 11
• Available colors: 2

“In terms of specific styles, classic low profile sneakers with supportive midsoles such as fashion-forward walking sneakers or minimalist trainers with a built in arch support are some of my most frequently recommended options,” says Dr. Katelyn Cleypool with Foot and Ankle Specialists. Cleypool favors these lace-up adidas, complete with a cushioned, shock-absorbing midsole and that iconic striped trim; she finds them “to be timeless and an essential wardrobe capsule piece.”

• Available sizes: 5 — 11
• Available colors: 16

“Chunky platform soles improve shock absorption,” says Dr. Michelle Yoakim at University Foot and Ankle Institute — and these faux leather Chelsea boots have a toothy lug sole that increases wearability while adding edge to your look. The 2.3-inch heel height is actually a plus for feet; “moderate heel height helps reduce forefoot pressure,” says Dr. Yoakim.

• Available sizes: 5.5 — 11
• Available colors: 7