The 16 Best Work Sneakers for Women in 2024, Tested & Reviewed
Office dress codes are more flexible than ever. Forget changing from white sneakers into slingback heels before sitting down at your desk. These days, wearing your best work sneakers for your full 9-to-5 is not only accepted, but encouraged.
“We’ve witnessed a massive shift in how we think about workwear over the last three years,” stylist and fashion commentator Heather Newberger tells Marie Claire. “Gone are the days of your boss taking you aside to tell you your outfit doesn’t cut the mustard. Instead, [the office has] become a place where personal style can reign supreme.”
The best work sneakers do more than bring your sporty side to the office; they also provide all-day support and comfort. This isn’t the go-ahead to wear your once-white, now-gray tennis shoes to your next team meeting, however. “Sneakers are now widely accepted on corporate floors, [but] there are still some basic guidelines one needs to abide by,” Newberger says. Ahead, the stylist shares exactly how to wear sneakers to the office. Plus, podiatric surgeon Dr. Jacqueline Sutera weighs in on the key factors included in the most comfortable shoes for work.
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What to Look for in Work Sneakers
“For the office, you want to choose smart sneakers that reflect minimal flair,” says Newberger. “Premium materials like vegan leather always signify status, while metallics, platform silhouettes, and hints of color bring in more personal style.”
The stylist recommends paying close attention to your sneakers’ soles. “You do want to avoid shoes with strong tread, as they signify you’re ready for a more athletic experience than a work-oriented one.” Bottom line: Faux leather low-tops are fair game. “But sporty shoes for a workout? Leave those at home,” Newberger says.
How to Find Comfortable Work Sneakers
“Of course, style is up to you,” New York City-based podiatric surgeon Dr. Jacqueline Sutera says, “but when looking for sneakers to wear to work, make sure they have foot-loving features.” All of the best work sneakers take the following factors seriously.
“Sneakers should be wide enough so the toes are not jammed or crammed and must fit your foot well without having to be ‘broken in,” she explains. “They should also be able to accommodate any corn, callous, hammertoe, especially in the toe box.”
“Everyday shoes that are worn a lot and for long periods of standing and walking should have a thicker sole,” Dr. Sutera says. “The sole should also, preferably, have a heel-to-toe drop, meaning that the heel and back part of the shoe are thicker than the front. Chunky sneakers, especially with a flat insole, should be worn for short periods of walking and standing.”
Dr. Sutera can’t stress the importance of arch support enough. “It can help set a more neutral foot, keep you from overpronating, and stabilize the foundation for the entire skeleton. And if the arch is abnormally flat or pronated, many problems—such as bunions, hammertoes, tendonitis, back, hip, knee pain, etc.—can occur or be made worse.”
How to Keep Work Sneakers Clean
Your coworkers will see the sneakers you wear to the office. Make sure they’re getting proper upkeep. “It’s important that your work sneakers stay clean and clever. Invest in sneaker wipes; don’t be afraid to use them,” Newberger says. She also implores you to keep your “work” sneakers and “play” sneakers separate. Shoes you wear for dog walks and weekend trips can get as dirty as you want, but work sneakers should stay polished.
Storage also matters in sneaker cleanliness. “Invest in shoe boxes that will always keep dust away from your favorite sneakers,” Newberger advises.
The Best Work Sneakers
Cariuma All Black Canvas Sneaker
This pair of low-tops from Cariuma has—drumroll, please—over 16,000 five-star reviews, ranking them as one of the best black sneakers available now. “These sneakers feel like I am walking on a cloud,” writes one enthused shopper. “They are soft but supportive, true to size, stylish, and well made. I will be ordering other colors.”
Speaking of the other colorways offered, you can choose between 23 hues, including bright orange, trendy hot pink, and misty grey. If the canvas reads as too casual for your place of work, you can shop this style in more upscale fabrications like suede or leather.
Pros: Comes in 24 colors: comes in four fabrications; Comes in half-sizes; Made from organic cotton; Made using organic plastics; Has over 10,000 five-star reviews; Fits true to size.
Cons: Some reviewers wish they had more arch support.
Customer Review: “Comfortable from the start, no pinching. And they look great!” — Cariuma
Tory Burch Howell Court Sneaker
There’s nothing quite like a pair of crisp white sneakers. But how about a clean white sneaker with punches of navy? With a reliably crisp and streamlined look, they’re absolutely a shoe to add to your workwear rotation. One Nordstrom shopper said they check two essential boxes: “high quality, very comfortable.”
Pros: Comes in multiple color options; Comes in half-sizes; Can be dressed up or down; Made from Calfskin leather.
Cons: Some reviewers noted they run a half-size large.
Customer Review: “I love these sneakers so much! I’ve been wanting plain white sneakers for a long time and these are everything I was looking for. They match so many outfits and even look cute with dresses. They are also very comfortable and lightweight. I got my regular size although I could have gotten half size smaller, I don’t like my closed toe shoes too tight.” – Nordstrom
Loewe Flow Runner Mix Leather Sneakers
“I love pairing sneakers with a suit or pair of trousers, especially with a pant that stops at ankle length,” Newburger says. “[Cropped pants] highlight the sneaker and also offer the opportunity to pair them with some fun socks that can bring even more personal style into your look.” When you’re wearing pants that draw attention to your shows, the fashion stylist recommends this sleek pair by Loewe. They’re sporty in silhouette, yet the leather and suede finishes are undeniably refined.
Vionic Kimmie Slip On Shoe
This slip-on sneaker from Vionic is Dr. Sutera’s favorite pick. The podiatrist, a member of Vionic’s Innovation Lab, shouts out the design for its comfort-first features made for life on your feet, like a removable cushioned insole and soft leather upper.
Customer reviews only emphasize Sutera’s point. “Vionic has been my only shoe of choice for many years,” writes one shopper. “It is wonderful to have orthotic comfort with plenty of great-looking fashionable styles for reasonable pricing….Win, Win, Win!”
Pros: Comes in three colors; Has a removable cushioned insole; Comes in most half-sizes; Comes in sizes up to a 13; Has dedicated arch support.
Cons: Some reviewers say they run narrow.
Customer Review: “Cute and comfy with great arch support. I bought black and tan, both in leather and I wear them constantly.” – Nordstrom
Sam Edelman Ethyl Low Top Sneaker
Put simply, these white sneakers are the sort you’ll want to wear 24/7. Take it from this Nordstrom shopper who is, quite frankly, over the moon with the leather lace-up shoe. “I have been researching all leather white sneakers for months. I had a vision in my head and these fit that vision perfectly! I wear them every chance I get and with everything,” they write. The sneaker’s insole is removable, too, which means you can wash and clean it as needed.
Pros: Comes in five colors; Comes in half-sizes; Reviewers say they run true-to-size; Reviewers say they require no breaking-in.
Cons: Some reviewers say they have a narrow fit.
Customer Review: “I love these shoes! I’m picky about shoes and have a hard time finding comfy ones, and these were comfy straight out of the box! I walked miles in them the first time I wore them out. No rubbing or discomfort. I got my regular sneaker size and they fit perfectly.” – Nordstrom
Vince Warren Platform Sneaker
You like the height that heels offer but, for the sake of your feet, you just can’t endure the discomfort and pain caused by a high pitch. The solution? An understated platform sneaker like Vince’s. It will provide a few inches of extra lift without cutting off the circulation in your toes or creating an ankle-breaking hazard.
“Super comfortable with surprisingly decent support,” one Nordstrom customer raves. “I use a stand-up desk at work and my feet feel fine by the end of the day. [They’re] perfect for work, play, and going out.”
Pros: Comes in half-sizes; Reviewers say they run true-to-size; Reviewers say they are lightweight.
Cons: Might not be the best if you have higher arches.
Customer Review: “This is my 6th pair of Vince slip-on sneakers and I can’t get enough! I have found that while the suede ones run true size, the leather run 1/2 size big. I returned my regular 6.5 for 6’s in all the leather sneakers. Perfect to slip on with jeans and leggings for stylish and comfort on the go wear. Highly recommend!” –Nordstrom
Naturalizer Morrison 2.0 Sneaker
Ready to go all-in on the metallic footwear trend? Add Naturalizer’s silver sneakers to your online cart. Statement in look yet classic in silhouette, they’re the ideal pair to infuse a bit of personality into your in-office footwear collection. “And to make your silver metallic sneakers pop, try wearing silver jewelry,” Newberger offers.
Design aside, these platform lace-ups are easy to wear. “These are the perfect go-with-everything sneaker, and they’re crazy comfortable with a cushiony insole and excellent arch support,” writes a reviewer.
Pros: Comes in six colors; Comes in half-sizes; Available in sizes up to a 13; Has a dedicated arch support insole.
Cons: Some reviewers say they are on the narrow side.
Customer Review: “I love these shoes. You can wear them with dress pants and they look great! They are extremely comfortable and like the raised heal. I wish these shoes come in various colors. I also purchased these shoes for my daughter.” – Nordstrom
Chloé Nama Mixed Media Platform Sneakers
“[Sneakers] made of mesh or softer fabric usually are fan favorites for people with sensitive areas,” Dr. Sutera says. If you’re prone to foot discomfort even when wearing easy sneakers, consider trying Chloé’s Nama pair, which are crafted from a gentle-to-the-foot recycled mesh. They offer orthopedic-style comfort but done in a Parisian, boho-chic way.
Rothy’s The Lace Up Sneaker
Jenny Hollander, Marie Claire‘s Director of Content Strategy, is a huge fan of the direct-to-consumer shoes and accessories brand Rothy’s. Previously, she described the label’s Lace Up Sneaker as one of her all-time favorite footwear finds: “Unlike some stiff sneakers that never really relax into the shape of your foot—you know the kind I’m talking about—the Lace Up Sneaker feels like a slipper, albeit a structured one. These sneakers are versatile, machine-washable, and feature subtle, classic detailing—the Rothy’s blue stripe on the lace and heel is such a cute touch.”
Pros: Comes in eight colorways; Comes in half-sizes; Comes in sizes up to a 13; Runs true-to-size; Are machine-washable.
Cons: Some reviewers say they are too narrow.
Customer Review: “I was looking for a more sustainable casual shoe that I could wear in a clinical setting with business casual attire. This one fit the bill! They are comfortable to wear all day and stylish enough to dress up or down. This is my second pair of Rothy’s and definitely not my last!”
Madewell Kickoff Trainer Sneakers
Yes, you’re an adult, but you can still get into the back-to-school spirit of fall through your wardrobe. These Kickoff Trainers by Madewell tap into that bookish academia feeling inherent to the season, yet they still look mature. One five-star reviewer on Madewell’s site said that, “Every time you step it is like stepping on a cushion,” and added, “I cannot think of a shoe that I have loved to have on my feet more than these.”
Pros: Runs true-to-size; Reviewers say they’re very supportive.
Cons: Doesn’t come in half-sizes; Some reviewers say that there is a short break-in period.
Customer Review: “These shoes literally give ‘cloud lift’ vibes. I have never had a sneaker that felt so snug (in a good way) and provided such a soft sole. Every time you step it is like stepping on a cushion. There is so much support in these shoes and they go with EVERYTHING. I cannot think of a shoe that I have loved to have on my feet more than these.” –Madewell
Prada Downtown Logo Low Top Sneaker
What is there to say about Prada that hasn’t already been said? The Italian luxury fashion house excels at formalwear, accessories, and everyday basics, like these sleek and simple leather sneakers. Crafted out of stark white leather with a bit of black contrast in Prada’s signature triangle logo, this pair is one of the best designer sneakers to splurge on. As one Nordstrom reviewer noted, “Not only did these fit without having to use a shoe insert, they were comfortable right from day one.”
Adidas’ Sambas aren’t ending their It-sneaker reign in 2024. Beloved by Bella Hadid, Kendall Jenner, and other folks of their A-list ilk, they’re as suited to the office as a paparazzi stroll around Manhattan or Los Angeles. In addition to being one of the best trend-driven black sneakers on today’s market, this particular style is made without any animal products, so it’s also an ethical option. As Marie Claire‘s Fashion E-Commerce Editor, Julia Marzovilla, puts it: “These sneakers are the epitome of ease. They look more elevated than a normal pair of sneakers, are easy to clean, and are comfortable after ten-hour days of wear.”
Pros: Comes in half-sizes; Runs true-to-size; Comes in three colors.
Cons: Comes in UK sizing which requires you to convert them to American sizing.
Customer Review: “Great looking shoe dress up dress down good to fold take travel with you. Great all-around shoe.” –Adidas
Newberger’s rule of thumb is to always make sure a work outfit feels resolved. Color coordination is the stylist’s preferred method to get there. “As an example, if your sneakers have a hint of blue in them, try wearing a blue top of the same hue to bring it out,” she suggests. Put the tip into practice with this Veja style, with mint green accents that can complement a cool-tone shirt.
Pros: Comes in eight colors; Runs true-to-size; Made from real leather.
Cons: Do not come in half sizes; Veja has its own size guide which requires you to convert your size.
Customer Review: “Just walked around Europe in these for two weeks and never got blisters! So comfortable. The kaki color goes with everything and I like how it’s a more subtle color than the black [colorway]. The first few times I wore them, they felt very stiff but don’t give up on them! After a few wears, they feel like they were made for me.” — Nordstrom
If Adidas’ Sambas style is a little too popular for your liking, try the Gazelle sneaker instead. Available in sizes 5 through 10, in colors like this slate gray and mossy green, they look great with anything from wide-leg trousers to a tiered midi dress.
“I’ve been a fan of Adidas Gazelle shoes for years. They’re a classic style that never goes out of fashion,” says one Nordstrom shopper. “I recently bought a new pair of Gazelle shoes, and I’m really impressed with them. The shoes are made from a soft suede upper that is comfortable and durable. The shoes also have a comfortable rubber outsole that provides good traction.”
Pros: Comes in four colors; Comes in half-sizes; Reviewers say they don’t require a break-in period.
Cons: Some reviewers say they run a half-size large; They don’t have a dedicated arch support insole.
Customer Review: “True to size. I love how comfortable they are especially the leather material used. It also suits every outfit I wear whether classic or sporty. In all great purchase and great design!” –Adidas
“Pairing sneakers with a classic pencil skirt always reminds me of the days when women would wear sneakers to the workplace before putting on their ‘real shoes,’ AKA heels,” Newberger says. “However, pairing work sneakers—New Balance’s 327 chunky black and white pair, for instance—with a pleated midi skirt or ribbed maxi dress will come across as more playful and on trend.”
These New Balances aren’t just a no-brainer for extra height and volume; the chunky soles also mean they’re supportive. “I bought these and the next day wore them for 10 hours. They are very comfortable,” a satisfied Anthropologie customer confirms.
Pros: Comes in half-sizes; Comes in sizes up to a 12; Reviewers say they are comfortable and supportive.
Cons: Some reviewers note they run a half-size too big.
Customer Review: “These sneakers are as comfortable as they are fashionable. My go-to shoes! I bought an 8.5 and 9 and returned the 9. I’d say they run about a half-size big.” — New Balance
Katherine J. Igoe, Marie Claire’s Contributing Editor, swears by Everlane’s Day sneakers. “They’re ethically made, and the pairs I’ve bought have lasted me five years (or more!) before I need to buy the newest version,” she says. Plus, she notes that the pale pink shade is surprisingly easy to style into everyday outfits. This pair comes in four colors and in half-sizes, too. A few glowing reviews guarantee that they run true-to-size and still feel comfortable even after hours (and thousands of steps) later.
Pros: Comes in four colorways; Comes in half-sizes; Runs true-to-size.
Cons: The brand notes that these are narrow-fitting.
Customer review: “Sneakers are great, I loved the color and the fit, very versatile, great for work or casual outfits.” — Everlane
Meet the Experts
Heather Newberger is a fashion stylist, author, and television commentator. Her mission is to help people find joy and self expression through clothing. An imaginative and discerning creative, Heather’s inspired point of view uniquely reflects her commitment to championing all genders, shapes, and sizes. She is devoted to creating inclusivity within the fashion industry. Heather’s first book “How to Date Your Wardrobe” is available for purchase wherever books are sold.
Dr. Jacqueline Sutera is a surgically trained doctor of podiatric medicine specializing in the prevention and treatment of foot pathology. Dr. Sutera is Board Certified in Foot Surgery and is a Fellow of the American College of Foot & Ankle Surgeons. She is also a proud member of Vionic’s Innovation Lab, spokesperson for the American Podiatric Medical Association and the New York State Podiatric Medical Society.
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