13 Podiatrist-Recommended Shoes for Back Pain That Are Comfy and Cute

These super cushiony shoes are both supportive and comfortable, especially around the ankles, and they have shock absorption. They’re relatively lightweight, made of recycled materials, and have a mesh upper so they’re breathable for all day wear. They are available in regular width but the toe-box has plenty of room. With 21 colors to choose from–think pastel pinks, aqua, and cheery sea foam and coral accents, as well as a selection of neutrals–you can get a shoe to match any outfit.

The mesh-and-Lycra upper, along with a cushioned sole makes this shoe a go-to for routine running and walking, even if you end up going on a rocky path or hiking trail, which makes up for the shoes’ somewhat bulky sole. Just remember that the foam construction gives it the necessary bounce.

Best for: Running, walking

Sizes available: 5–12, regular

Colors: 21

Upon review, Dr. Lobkova notes that the Vivobarefoot Novus sneaker has a thick, cushioned sole. “This is a good shoe for casual walks,” she says. That’s in part because the sole is made of Michelin material rubber–yes, as in the car tires–which will get you all over without wearing your feet or your back down. You’ll be surprised how soft the leather upper feels and the laces are made of organic cotton. It’s the ideal casual trainer to go with any outfit, whether you’re wearing a sundress in the city or joggers for a hike.

While the shoe only comes in one width, the toe-box is incredibly roomy. Upon testing, our toes felt completely free, as if we were out barefoot with no pinching whatsoever. Each step allowed the body weight to be evenly distributed. The back heel cushioning provided enough padding that the Novus could be worn without socks, which is nice since the recycled PU insert contains naturally antibacterial cork.

The best part is that it comes with a 100-day trial, so if you’re not in love with them, just send them back.

Best for: Walking

Available sizes: 5.5-11.5: Regular, Wide

Colors: 2

These colorful Dansko clogs are as comfortable strolling around town as they are when you spend hours on your feet, say gardening or working in retail or the service industry. They help support the arch and have the American Podiatric Medical Association Seal of Acceptance. The cushy clog have a removable insole that’s made for shock absorption, allowing the weight to be distributed evenly without putting too much pressure on the knees and the joints. Thanks to the contoured heel, you can slip into these in seconds, but your foot won’t slip out as you go about your business. While the upper does have side perforation for ventilation, the foot can get sweaty if you’re not wearing socks. (Thought it hasn’t caused blisters.)

We also love that these are incredibly lightweight, thanks to the bio-based EVA made from fast growing and renewable sugar cane. Bonus: the EVA material is incredibly easy to clean, making them perfect for gardening, or any other messy job that can encounter spills.

Best for: Walking, Gardening

Available sizes: 5.5-6 to 11.5-12: Medium

Colors: 7

These sleek sneakers have a minimalist design that feels elevated and polished—not to mention, they will go with pretty much everything in your closet. No wonder they are an Ecco best-seller. You’ll love that the removable, leather-covered insole can be taken out for more space and added comfort. If that’s not enough reason to love these, the leather toe box has plenty of room, so your walking won’t cause back pain. Reviewers love these for its arch support.

Best for: Walking, casual wear

Sizes available: 4–11.5

Colors: 5

It’s official: Birkenstocks are back. (There is even a cameo in the Barbie movie). These platform Birkenstocks are just like your favorite pair of sandals, but with more lift. They come in black or white vegan leather, and are lightweight and comfy. The insole actually contours to the shape of your foot to help distribute your weight as you strut around. Note that the outsole is made of EVA, a flexible material that is not only durable, but will help absorb anything underfoot. Since you can’t put your orthotics into your sandals, Birkenstocks have maximum cushioning and arch support as an added bonus, adds Dr. Lobkova.

It comes in a narrow width option, so the sandals don’t look too bulky. Plus, the adjustable buckle closures allow you to create a custom fit.

Best for: Walking, casual wear

Sizes available: 5–11.5

Colors: White, black

If you love Converse but don’t find them comfortable, you might want to splurge on a shoe that’s podiatrist-approved–Golden Goose. The luxury sneaker, which is made in Italy, has sturdy soles that offer a solid foundation for your foot. Though some reviewers note that the toe area feels a bit flat. The cushioning and , padding will let you tread on all day long, which makes these the go-to pair when you’re on vacation playing sight-seeing tourist

The top portion is leather, which may feel stiff at first and may need a bit of breaking in. The terry lining is easy to wear with or without socks, and the shoes have a casual, distressed look that gives them that effortlessly worn-in look.

Best for: Walking, casual wear

Sizes available: 5–11

Colors: White/Ice/Night

Dromedaris is known for its ultra-comfy, removable footbeds, which help provide stability and keep pressure off of your toes. These boots feature a low heel and rounded forefoot that doesn’t taper so you don’t have to worry about your toes getting squished. The removable footbed focuses on cushioning, arch support, and shock absorption–all which can mitigate the effects of plantar fasciitis. That combined with a rigid sole offers ample support with every step. You’ll love the faux fur lining which keeps your feet snug and comfy. Bonus: the inside zipper makes it a cinch to put these booties on. The German-made boots are a favorite of nurses, doctors, engineers, and ballerinas–really anyone who is on their feet all day.

Best for: Walking, casual wear

Sizes available: 5–12.5, regular and wide

Colors: 11

American Podiatric Medical Association-certified, these Sauconys are very cushioned but also lightweight. They have a mesh upper that’s breathable, even on a hot summer day. T they hug your feet, and they come in a variety of bright colors to help your feet stand out in a crowd. The new version Triumph has PWRRUN+ sockliner so your feet can withstand any terrain, whether you’re going for a jog or putting in a day’s worth of walking. The sole has traction, even on gravel trails, so you’re less likely to slip. Plus, they are very lightweight, only 8.8 ounces!

Best for: Walking, running

Sizes available: 5–12, regular and wide

Colors: 7

Sporty, waterproof, and breathable, these boots are ready for any adventure. They have a wide fit, a two-inch heel, and also a good amount of midsole cushioning for shock absorption. They’ll be your go-to shoes on cold days thanks to their thermal insulation and breathable upper to keep your feet warm and dry. The Velcro strap also makes putting them on and taking them off super easy. The top is made of nylon and a tumbled leather-effect material, so your footsies will look as if they walked off the runway. What’s more, the Geox Falena Abx is waterproof so you can wear them in the rain or snow. You can also remove (or replace) the footbed to suit your comfort needs.

Best for: Walking, cold weather

Sizes available: 5–10.5

Colors: Black

Altra Torin 7 shoes are designed to be zero drop. “They actually have 0 mm heel-to-toe gradient so there is absolutely no totling forward of the torso or abnormal curving in the back when standing and walking,” says Dr. Lobkova. “They also have a lot of cushioning for shock absorption.”

The new Torin 7 has more cushioning (they added two extra millimeters of foam to the midsole), a molded heel color, and a re-developed tongue. These support in the midsole and are foot-shaped, giving your toes plenty of room to stretch out. People who suffer with back pain need shoes with shock absorbency, and these shoes “have exceptional cushioning to them, which is going to help reduce the shock that’s transferred up the leg,” says Michael Fishkin, a certified pedorthist. The Altra outsole technology encourages natural foot movement, no matter the terrain.

Best for: Walking, running

Sizes available: 5.5–12, regular

Colors: 5

Talk about a pretty shoe that is actually pretty good at keeping back pain at bay. The New Balance 880v13 sports a supportive foam midsole and a cushy rubber outsole. (Plus, the midsole is partially made from bio-based foam.) Thanks to the 10mm drop, you’ll have good weight distribution as you’re out and about. . They’re lightweight to handle long days and long distances. The double-layer knit upper is made with at least 50% recycled content, is durable and breathable.

Best for: Walking, running

Sizes available: 5–11, standard, wide

Colors: 1

For anyone looking to log some miles, these Asics will help you do that comfortably (afterall, the style is inspired by cumulus clouds). The shoe has a foam midsole and special gel technology under the heel to provide extra cushioning and shock absorption with each stride. The Cumulus is also designed for anyone who has a neutral gait or underpronation–meaning your heel curves a bit to the outside when you walk–and relieves unnecessary pressure on the outside of your foot. Use this sneaker for everyday training, you’ll get a toe-off boost every time. It has an 8mm heel drop and weighs less than 8 ounces. Part of the shoe’s upper is also made with 90% recycled polyester.

Best for: Walking, running

Sizes available: 5–12, standard

Colors: 14

Dr. Lobkova contributed to technical design for Klaw footwear. The shoe has a small heel-to-toe drop of 7mm and the midsole is lightweight (it only weighs 11 ounces) yet it is cushioned, specifically at the heel for heel contact phase of gait. “The insole has a deep heel cup and medial and lateral arch support, which helps maintain the foot in neutral position,” she says. “This decreases the possibility of compensatory problems in other weight bearing joints, such as the knees and the back.” Dr. Lobkova also notes that this is a great shoe for orthopedic walking. You’ll also love that it has a rain-proof leather upper and an anti-slip tread–that way you’re always sturdy, no matter what the weather or the terrain.

Best for: Walking

Available sizes: 6-11: Regular, Wide

Colors: 4