31 Splurge
We hope you love our recommendations! Some may have been sent as samples, but all were independently selected by our editors. Just FYI, BuzzFeed collects a share of sales and/or other compensation from the links on this page.
Including multiple pairs reviewers confirmed don't require an uncomfortable break-in period.
BuzzFeed Staff
Unless otherwise specified, all sizes in this post are listed in women's.
Thursday Boot Company suggests ordering a half size up from your normal size (aka your boot size).
Promising review: "I love the fit of this boot. My heels don't slide up in them because they have some shaping around the heel inside, the mark of a more expensive boot. They fit right out of the box, I wore them around the house and didn't want to take them off! Walked around Portland and very comfortable, no break-in period. I sized up by a half-size, which I typically do in booties." —Ginger
Get them from Amazon for $160 (available in sizes 5–11 and in eight colors).
If you're usually a half size, Allbirds recommends you go a size up.
Promising review: "The most comfortable shoes I have ever worn. (And I have a lot of shoes!) My shoes (two pairs now) hug my feet and cradle them as I walk and run. Allbirds take the guesswork out of finding other athletic brands that may or may not fit comfortably, consistently. I love my Allbirds!" —Jessica S.
Get them from Allbirds for $110 (available in whole sizes 5–11 and in 14 colors).
Promising review: "I love these clogs. I wore them for 10 hours right out of the box with no issues whatsoever. They are cute, super comfy, and feel really good on your feet. The soles are pretty slip-proof, and the leather is pretty soft so no breaking in is required. Love them!!" —Amazon Customer
Get them from Amazon for $94.95+ (available whole sizes 5–11 and in 11 colors).
Promising review: "I absolutely love these boots. They are so comfortable. I fell in love when I walked into my hair salon and three stylists were all wearing them. They praised the longevity of standing and no fatigue. I have since worn them while walking all over the city in great comfort and warmth all while being super cute." —Laura A.
Get them from Amazon for $99.70+ (available in sizes 5–11, wide, and in 10 colors and styles).
Promising review: "It's the second pair I've bought of this Smoking Slipper, so I think that's a good take on how much I love these. My first pair wore down in over a year, plus a two-week trip to Malta where I never took em off." —Clara G.
Get them from Amazon for $75 (available in sizes 6–11) or from Soludos for $99 (available in sizes 5–11).
Ma’am Shoes is a woman-owned small biz creating beautiful and comfortable shoes you can wear for years.
BuzzFeed Shopping writer Danielle Healy says: "Sometimes it feels like my feet are made of paper with how easily they blister. So when a brand markets itself as having a focus on stylish comfort, I am all ears. Fresh out of the box, I wore these red beauties out to dinner (a 20-minute walk each way) and my feet were no worse for wear. So I decided to put them through the ultimate test — a wedding. Even after hours of dancing, my feet felt great and I got loads of compliments. A statement shoe that really does look and feel great? *Big swoon.*"
Get them from Ma’am Shoes for $300+ (available in sizes 4.5–11 and in five colors).
Promising review: "The heel counter is lined with suede so it is comfortable even after walking a lot. The sole is cushioned easy to wear. I have wider feet, but this shoe doesn't make my feet look big. I would highly recommend anyone looking for a classic loafer." —Tsou
Get them from Amazon for $150 (available in sizes 4–11 and in seven colors) or Shopbop for $150 (available in sizes 4–12 and in seven colors).
Promising review: "I LOVE the shoes! The colors are brighter than what I expected, but they look amazing. I would totally recommend these for anyone who wants cute and comfy shoes! " — DevynK76178984
Get them from Nike for $120 (available in sizes 5–12 and in 10 colors).
BuzzFeed Shopping editor Maitland Quitmeyer says: "First thing that needs to be said is that Uggs are great! They're warm, they're cozy, and you can just slide them on when you're freezing — I won't hear otherwise! They're not exactly high fashion, but they don't *need* to be when it's a straight-up polar vortex outside. So when I saw these Ugg slipper slides with an elastic back, I just had to buy a pair. I don't know what it is about them I find the cutest: the slightly sporty elastic, the Michelin man-esque plush rolls on top, or the chunky bottoms that give you a little extra height. AND they have all the comfort of a slip-on slide, but without the feeling that your foot is going to fall out any second.
They have a hard sole, so you can wear them as indoor slippers, half-indoor-half-outdoor take-out-the-trash-shoes, or real regular shoes (aka what I'm going to use them for). When it's still warm-ish out, I'm going to wear them with my toes poking through, but they're also going to be *so* cute with socks (team socks + sandals 'til I die!!!!!). And they're SO SOFT AND COMFY! I'm prepared to live in these all fall. Paired with leggings and a blazer? It's the perfect 'Ugh, I can barely make today happen' work outfit. I honestly want to get another pair in another of the cute colors...or the leopard print. Oh, and just FYI, I ended up sizing down in these!"
Get them from Amazon (available in whole sizes 5–15 and in 34 colors) or Nordstrom (available in whole sizes 5–12 and in nine colors) for $99.95.
Promising review: "These boots are made so well! They are unbelievably comfortable; there is no need to break them in. The first day wearing them I stood for several hours and had no trouble at all. These are by far my favorite boots. I will be getting more in the future." —Lisakay
Get them from Amazon for $89.95+ (available in sizes 5–12 and in seven colors).
Promising review: "I can't count the number of compliments I've received on these shoes from strangers. I wear these shoes without socks, and they're so comfortable. I can slip them on without having to undo the laces, so they were great when I had shoulder surgery and couldn't tie anything. I sized down half a size, and they fit great." —Jk85
Get them from Amazon for $144.95 (available in sizes 5–12 and in 17 colors) or from Sorel for $83.98+ (available in sizes 5–12 and in 10 colors).
BuzzFeed shopping editor Heather Braga says: "I have these boots in both black and toffee — I'm actually obsessed. They are my favorite shoes right now because I can wear them through the fall, winter, and early spring. They look fantastic with jeans and adorable with tights. They have just enough heel to create the look of heeled booties without the discomfort of walking around in heels. Basically, they're amazing and everyone should buy them. K, thanks. You can check out my full review on them here (#6)."
Get them from Amazon for $99.99+ (available in sizes 5–13, wide, and 40 colors and fabric styles).
Promising review: "I just received these today, and I am obsessed! They fit true to size and are very comfy. 10/10 worth the price!" —brianna_
Get them from Free People for $178 (available in whole sizes 6–11 and in nine colors).
Promising review: "When I first put them on, I did not want to take them off. Seriously, no kidding, these are the comfiest shoe. I can't get over how great looking this shoe is with dress pants, WHILE being comfortable at the same time. I plan on wearing these to for work with dress pant when I don't use heels." —Lina D
Get them from Amazon for $74.95+ (available in sizes 5–11, wide, and in six colors).
That's at least what my coworker, Natalie Brown, has told me. She's been wearing hers for more than three years now!
BuzzFeed Shopping editor Natalie Brown says: "I've owned and loved my one pair of these since 2017, when a few of us first reviewed 'em. They are by far the pair of shoes I wear most often (my Birks come in close second), precisely because — besides being incredibly comfortable, especially once they form to your feet — they're so easy to wash the moment they start to smell. I usually gently hand wash 'em with a scrub brush in my tub because I live in NYC and don't have access to one in my apartment, but I've washed them in a machine several times back at my parents' place and they hold up really well. TBH mine STILL look as new as they did when I first got them, and FWIW I find I can wear mine for a couple of weeks before they get stinky. I'm wearing them right now! And yes, they're made from 100% PCR plastic water bottles — here's some pictures of the process. Oh, and their boxes and shipping are sustainable, too."
Get them from Rothy's for $125 (available in sizes 5–13 and 31 colors and patterns).
Promising review: "These boots are sooooo cute! I wore them walking around NY and loved them! I felt very comfortable. They have a good supportive stretch to the ankle and calf. Where have they been my whole life?" —Ben West
Get them from Amazon for $83.75+ (available in sizes 5–11 and in three colors).
This Black woman-owned brand is on a mission to create a nude color for every skin tone. After having to paint a pair of white heels to match her skin tone, founder Jamela A Acheampong wanted to start a company that celebrated the diversity of the human complexion and gave everyone the perfect "nude" shoe. The heels are ethically and sustainably handmade in Italy.
Promising review: "My partner surprised me with these months after I mentioned them to him in passing. What a HOME RUN gift. They fit true to size (just a bit of room to allow for swelling while wearing heels), and they are THE MOST COMFORTABLE heels I’ve ever worn. Butter soft leather, beautiful construction, my exact skin tone, I could talk forever about these shoes. Plus, what a cool company! 10/10. I will be buying more for my next birthday!" —Ainsley
Get them from Kahmune for $395+ (available in EU sizes 35–44 and in 10 shades in either matte, suede, and patent).
Promising review: "I'm in love. I'm never buying another brand of combat boots again. I'd been hesitant to buy Docs because of the price, but these were absolutely worth it. They have excellent support (comfortable enough to wear for eight-hour shifts on my feet), and they're grippy enough to handle snow, sleet, and New England winters. I tend to wear my shoes to death, but I've been wearing these pretty much daily for four months, and they're holding up well." —R
Get them from Amazon for $149.99+ (available in sizes 5–14 and in five colors).
Bangs is a woman-founded company that makes 100% vegan shoes. There is footbed and arch support in the shoes and a reinforced heel counter.
Promising review: "These have quickly become my go-to shoe for almost any day. I love wearing them with shorts casually but also with dresses. They are more comfortable than my gym shoes. So for sure my go-to hiking shoe! Not to mention they are so cute!! Plus, they're very well made. I highly recommend." —Sarah Petrie
Get them from Bangs for $65 (available in sizes 5–14.5).
Promising review: "I am obsessed with Birdies! I am a Kindergarten teacher and on my feet all day. I am also a runner. It is so important that I find a pair of comfortable shoes that are also stylish. These are the first pair of flats that I can wear all day and my feet don't hurt when I get home. I love them!" —MARISSA S.
Get them from Birdies for $130 (available in sizes 5–12 and in 14 colors and patterns).
Promising review: "The block heel makes these high-heeled boots comfortable — I can wear them all day (or all night) without back pain! Also, I didn't have to break them in at all. They look awesome with dresses or pants. They're a classic." —Annie C.
Get them from Nisolo for $220 (available in sizes 5–11 and in six colors).
Promising review: "These are quite honestly the best investment in shoes I’ve made in a while! They're super comfortable, lightweight, and great to take with me when I travel. These shoes will be a staple in my wardrobe for casual wear, runs, and strength training." —Hannah B.
Get them from Apl for $245 (available in sizes 5–11).
BuzzFeed shopping writer Mallory Mower says: "I wanted a sturdy boot to go with my floral dresses this summer. These are a GIFT for people with sweaty feet. They're so lightweight and breathable I can wear them when it's hot out and still feel completely comfortable. It's grand."
Get them from Amazon or Forsake for $139.95 (available in sizes 5–11 and in five colors).
Promising review: "I absolutely love the day gloves, and I have them in several colors. They are stylish and comfortable right out of the box. They're great for work. Fit is true to size." —ndog99
Get them from Everlane for $115 (available in sizes 5–11 and in eight colors).
Promising review: "Very comfy and great looking boots! Just like the picture. The heel height makes me taller but isn't too steep to walk naturally in. Zipper is smooth to pull up and it stays up and doesn't creep down over time. Overall, I am very happy with this purchase." —Rebecca Henry
Get it from Amazon for $69.90 (available in sizes 5–13 and five colors).
Okay, I am just going to say that I am not (nor have I ever been) a runner. BUT — I do walk a lot. And these are my new favorite walking shoes. They are SO comfortable. The cushioning on the bottom makes these feel like you're basically walking on air — seriously. I've walked a good amount in these and haven't had any pain at all. I even used them on a bike ride and was impressed as well. And while I don't run, I can see how they would be great running shoes. They support your feet and give you some cushioning so you're not pounding into the ground. I think you can go the distance in them.
Promising review: "These are the most comfortable shoes I've ever had in my life! It's amazing! Even if you are walking all day long, no pain whatsoever! It's as if you are walking over a cushion❤️ " —Heba
Get them from On Running for $169.99 (available in sizes 5–11 and in four colors).
Thesus is a POC woman–led small business based in Ontario, Canada, creating sustainable outdoor footwear that looks good and is comfortable. They use material that's 90% sustainable and traceable.
Promising review: "I really love these boots. They are extremely comfortable and there was no breaking in period. I sized up as recommended, and they fit perfectly. I can wear them with an insole and thick socks. If you plan to wear them with just a thin sock, you could probably stick to your usual size. I’ve gone on several hikes since getting these, and they don't rub at all. I think I’ll end up getting another color because I like them so much. And they look cute!" —Norah
Get it from Thesus for $198 (available in EU sizes 36–46 and 11 colors).
Avre is a Taiwanese American-owned small biz making sustainable footwear for women. They're donating 20% of sales during the month of May to the AAPI Community Fund.
These sneakers from Avre are one of my favorite pairs of shoes. I've had them for almost two years now, and I wear them all the time. Since they're made of knit fabric, they stretch right onto your foot and are super comfortable. Plus, the chunky heel adds a bit of extra style. I mostly wear them with leggings and joggers (because that's what I live in), but I have worn them with jeans too. They do run big, so I would size down a half size. I also love that they’re made from recycled water bottles, as I’ve been trying to be a little more conscious with my purchases.
Get them from Avre for $145 (available in sizes 5–10 and in five colors).
Promising review: "These are amazingly beautiful boots. The pictures do no justice to their beauty. Mine arrived quickly and I was so awed and enamored with their look and quality I ordered the other two colors right away. I wore the champagne color already and have received rave compliments. The Black boots are to die for. Haven't worn them yet, but I can hardly wait. The snake print pair are true charmers. Recommendation: BUY these boots while you can! Oh yeah, they fit true to size and feel comfortable while wearing." —Carla Branscomb
Get them from Amazon for $59.95 (available in sizes 6–11 and two colors).
Zou Xou Shoes is a Black- woman-owned business that has been creating handcrafted shoes by Argentinian shoemakers since 2015. The styles are easy and classic so they can be worn for years. These flats are handmade to order in European sizes, and they suggest sizing up. So, if you wear a US 8, choose a 39.
Promising review: "Omg, they are perfect!!! As soon as I opened the box, I could smell the quality. I’ve been eyeing these shoes for months, and they are so worth it! Keeping these forever. ❤️ So happy to support!" —Isabella Henriquez
Get them from Zou Xou Shoes on Etsy for $268 (available in EU sizes 39–42).
Promising review: "These are absolutely the cutest and most unique sneakers. They are comfortable and so stylish. I’m definitely getting the cheetah print next." —Candace Liyah Paul
Get them from Amazon for $79.95 (available in sizes 5–11 and in 29 colors).
Reviews have been edited for length and/or clarity.
BuzzFeed Shopping writer Danielle Healy says: Fresh out of the box, I wore these red beauties out to dinner (a 20-minute walk each way) and my feet were no worse for wear. Promising review: They are unbelievably comfortable; there is no need to break them in. Promising review: Promising review: