20 Shoes That May Cost A Little Extra But Will Be *Totally* Worth It

Buzz Feed

11-02-2025

Unless otherwise specified, all sizes in this post are listed in women's.
1. New Balance 327s that...might be the perfect pair of sneakers? They're inspired by New Balance running shoes from the '70s, with a retro-meets-current silhouette that'll be on-trend now also but not look dated next year. They'll be your go-to pair with athleisure, suiting, dresses, and more — and best of all, they're *super* comfy.
I have these sneakers in two colors (the black and white pictured above and a pair with blue accents that's not currently available), and I wear them *all the time*. They're the perfect balance of slightly chunky but not bulky, and I love the slightly retro look. And of course, they're VERY comfy. I wear them all the time walking around New York, and I brought one pair on a recent trip to Paris where I walked 81 miles in 8.5 days (I wore the New Balances on 7/8.5 days!) and I was comfy on every step. I saw several other people wearing them there, too! I am probably going to buy a third pair (I know...) in the sea salt with sandstone colorway, which is the perfect neutral.
Promising review: "Fantastic! Give me one in every color! If you're on the fence, buy them. I get compliments all the time, and I'm on my feet all day. My favorite pair of New Balances to date!" —Amber B TX
Get them from New Balance for $99.99 (available in sizes 5–12 and eight colorways, plus a version for golfing).
2. Sam Edelman loafers with a chic double-bit accent; they're sure to be your go-to slip-on shoes; they're a classic for a reason! And reviewers note the leather is "buttery soft," making them comfy straight out of the box. Why splurge on Gucci?
www.amazon.com, www.amazon.com
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Promising review:"These shoes are a favorite! I ordered the black after having a beet red color for about a year and a half. They were comfortable right out of the box, the leather is supple, and they look high quality. I am very happy with my purchase. These are often compared to the Brixton loafer from a high-end fashion brand." — Christine
Get them from Amazon for $150 (available in sizes 4–13, in wide width, and in 45 colors and patterns).
3. A pair of Aerosoles platform sandals if you're looking for a bit of a height boost but still want to be comfy all night. The platform front helps mitigate the three-inch heel, and the ~diamond flex sole~ is designed to reduce friction. Spoiler alert: they just might become your go-to event shoes.
Aerosoles / Via www.instagram.com
Promising review:"These are super cute and by far the most comfortable heels I've ever worn. My feet are wide and flat so typically heeled shoes are not my friend. For context, I wore them to a baby shower and afterward walked around Whole Foods with zero issues. I'm definitely buying these in silver next." — Adriana L.
Get them from Aerosoles or Nordstrom for $135 (available in sizes 5–12, wide, and in 14 colors and patterns).
4. Columbia hiking shoes because it's leaf-peeping season, and you should take that hike in full comfort. The soles? They're a high-traction rubber, so you can avoid treacherous tumbles. The uppers? They're (waterproof!) leather and suede designed to last miles and miles. And the red laces? Well, they're just the cute little cherry on top.
Prime members: You can try before you buy!
Here's BuzzFeed Shopping editor Jenae Sitzes: Reviewers swear these don't even have a break-in period, making them a great pickup for that last-minute outdoorsy trip where hiking and rough terrain are on the docket. Note that it's recommended to go up a half size in these boots to accommodate thicker hiking socks, and I found that to be true when I picked up these shoes myself — I'm normally an 8 but found an 8.5 in these to be totally comfortable. I also found that they hold up well even on my first hike — though I did admittedly still have some soreness around my heel area, this was after a hard, 7+-mile hike with lots of rocks and climbing, so I don't blame the shoes. They felt comfortable right out of the box and super supportive when I was clamoring over rocks and rough terrain. And though I only stepped in water a couple of times briefly, my socks stayed dry, too. I got the brown color with red laces as pictured above, and they're even cuter in person, which is just another plus.
Promising review: "There's a reason that these hiking boots are the #1 best hiking boots on Amazon. I am amazed that they are so comfortable. This is day four that I've worn them, and my feet feel fantastic! I hiked four miles on the second day, and my feet were not tired, achy, or sore. I have been hiking for 30 years and have had numerous boots, but not a single pair has been this comfortable. The price is so worth it for what you get." — Granny B
Get them from Amazon for $42.85+ (available in sizes 5–12, including wide sizes, and 16 colors). You can find a similar men's version here.
5. A pair of Alohas ankle boots with a juuuust under 3-inch heel to elevate your outfit with that lightly '70s boot look that's so on trend — but still classic enough to wear for years to come. Spoiler alert: you might come back for a second pair.
Alohas
Promising review:"This is my second time buying these boots. I bought them in brown a few seasons ago, and they are still in great condition and held up after lots of wear, and now purchased them in black, and they're my new favorite pair! They're comfortable enough for casual wear, and great to dress up. I am a size 7.5 women's in US, and purchased a 38. They fit true to size. Definitely recommend these boots to anyone looking for a great wardrobe staple." —Gabraelle Hanus
Get them Alohas for $290 (available in size 35–44 and eight colors and styles).
6. Or a pair of Franco Sarto mid-calf boots that will achieve excellent price-per-wear because they go with just about every outfit, adding a little something-something (thanks to the unique stitching and chunky stacked heel) without distracting from your carefully curated fit.
Amazon
FYI, if you have Amazon Prime you can try before you buy!
Promising review:"They are very good boots! I've bought three pairs of them so far, and I'm happy with all of them! I especially like the felling of the boots! I suggest buying one size bigger and wearing them with thicker socks, and you will feel even more comfortable! Hope this helps!" — NTHCC
Get it from Amazon for $74+ (available in sizes 5–13 and in 14 colors).
7. Rothy's flats made out of a clever (and machine-washable!) recycled plastic knit that won't ~wear~ on you (or your feet). They're breathable, flexible, and don't rub painfully like some flats with sharp seams. And hey, more than 27,000 reviewers dig 'em, so they're probably worth checking out.
Rothy's
Promising review:"These are the most wonderful shoes on earth. They are my go-to for shoes. I've been wearing them for 7 years now, and I love them as much now as when I first purchased them." — DEBRA S.
Get them from Rothy's for $99+ (available in sizes 5–13 and in 60 colors and patterns).
8. Bestselling Adidas Cloudfoam sneakers that live up to the name (which is a pretty tall order!) — not only do they have super soft, cushiony soles, but the tops are made with a breathable mesh that stretches with your feet. That means no sweaty feet, no rubbing, just miles of bliss.
www.amazon.com, www.amazon.com
Promising review: "They felt weird the first time I put them on…but as I started walking in them it got better! Usually my feet are killing me by the end of the day or I'm just super sweaty in my dress shoes, but these are like walking on a literal CLOUD ☁️ and they let my feet breathe!" — Alyssa
Promising review: "Literally the BEST shoes ever! So comfy. I spent a whole day at Disney with no complaints, normally I'm tired after two hours of walking in the park, but with these babies, I was up and walking alll day with no problem." — Katherine
Get them from Amazon for $45+ (available in sizes 5–11 and 25 colors).
9. Thursday Boot Company Chelsea boots with shock-absorbing insoles, studded leather outsoles, and glove leather lining to keep you comfy all day — which means you're going to turn to these classics time and time (and time and time) again. And reviewers say the quality is amazing, with several revisiting their original review to talk about how well the boots hold up.
Thursday Boot Company
Thursday Boot Company suggests ordering a half size up from your normal size (aka your boot size).
Promising review:"I've bought from Thursday in the past, and I always love their boots and get so many compliments. They're well made and go with everything. They're definitely worth the price. I've had some pairs for years, and they hold up in every kind of weather! 10/10 recommend!" — Amazon Customer
Get them from Amazon for $160 (available in sizes 5–11 and in 10 colors).
10. Doc Martens combat boots — do I even need to tell you why? They're classics for a reason and get even *better* with wear (not only by breaking them in, of course but by letting the leather get a perfectly worn-in patina). The soles are ~ air-cushioned ~ and slip-resistant, and the shoes are bonded with heat so they'll stay intact for years. Just use Dr. Martens Wonder Balsam to condition and protect the leather as needed!
amazon.com
FYI, if you have Amazon Prime you can try before you buy!
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 $132.33+ (available in sizes 5–11 and in six colors).
11. Sorel Kinetic Impact Lace Sneakers designed with ventilation on the sides for breathability (buh-bye sweaty feet) and a "Livelyfoam" midsole designed to soften the impact of every step. Plus, how cool are those futuristic, super-chunky soles? If you're looking for sneaks that make a statement, these are for you.
www.amazon.com
FYI, if you have Amazon Prime you can try before you buy!
Promising review:"I normally don't like wearing tennis shoes all day because my feet tend to sweat in them, then swell when I take them off. These are the best brand of tennis shoes I have ever owned. They feel wonderful on my arthritic feet, and my feet breathe in them all day, so they never sweat and don't swell up when I take them off. I bought a second pair in white. Well worth the money. All my other tennis shoes are going to Goodwill." — SBoo
Get them from Amazon for $85.03+ (available in sizes 5.5–12 and 13 styles).
12. Madewell Court sneakers — don't want to rock a logo, just want the perfect pair of low, plain sneaks? These are perfect. Not to mention the comfort (they're made with cushy, supportive "Cloudlift" insoles) factor. There's a reason reviewers keep coming back to buy another pair!
Madewell
Promising review:"I've had these shoes for a couple of years now, and I am obsessed. They are so comfortable and truly go with everything. I've walked miles in these shoes, and they hold up so well." — CME663
Get them from Madewell for $98 (available in sizes 5–12).
13. Naturalizer slingbacks with an itty bitty (but not flat) 1.25-inch heel and a classic pointed toe for a hint of ~how sophisticated am I~ energy — without worrying about rolling your ankle or having cramped toes.
www.amazon.com, www.amazon.com
FYI, if you have Amazon Prime you can try before you buy!
Promising review:"With all my foot problems, I was resigned to only wearing sneakers with orthotics and sandals. I am happy to say these shoes are buttery soft and comfortable. I got the wide fit and am searching for the next cute pair to purchase. They are pricey, so I have to pace myself, but so worth it!" — Vivian
Get them from Amazon for $55+ (available in sizes 4–13, narrow, wide, and in 19 colors).
14. Everlane flats made with a *buttery* soft leather that'll mold to your feet as you wear them, so they'll feel like they were custom-made just for you! Plus, they've got upgraded insole cushioning so you can strut your stuff all day long — on trend and on cloud nine.
Everlane
Promising review: "This is my third pair of Everlane Day Glove shoes and I will probably get more. As someone who suffers with foot problems, I was sold after the first pair! I was able to put them on and go with no problems. The soft leather truly conforms to my feet." —TN Mimi
Get them from Everlane for $138 (available in sizes 5–11 and in 14 colors).
15. High-top, platform Converse sneakers that take classic Chucks to ~new heights~. And it's not just for looks (but boy, do they look good) — reviewers say the thicker sole means more cushioning, too!
Rachelle Yang / BuzzFeed, www.amazon.com
Here's BuzzFeed Shopping contributor Rachelle Yang: "I had these bbs for three years but had to say goodbye to them because it was finally their time to go. 🥲 I first got these shoes because I have very weak ankles and needed shoes that would support them, but these did waaaay more than that. The platforms were a lot comfier than I thought they were going to be, and I wore these EVERYWHERE. From concerts to hikes to beaches, these bad boys really put in the work and held up through everything. I never had a moment when I felt uncomfy with these on, and besides all that, they're SO SO SO cute!!!"
Promising review: "I've owned many pairs of Converse in my life, and these are the most comfortable I've ever worn. With the platform there's more cushion in the bottom, making them so comfy. They're absolutely adorable and who doesn't want to be just a couple inches taller! :) Now I just need them in black!" — Jennifer Kaul
Get them from Amazon for $64+ (available in sizes 5–12 and in various styles/colors).
16. Hoka Bondi 8 sneakers complete with suuuuper cushiony foam (that's still lightweight!) — just look how chunky these babies are — so you'll feel supported from the moment you strike your heel down to the moment your toes roll up. They're Hoka bestsellers!
Hoka
Promising review: "I have been struggling with a heel spur and severe pain from plantar fasciitis for about 10 weeks now. These shoes are a GAME CHANGER. Best purchase I've made for my feet." — Ariel
Promising review:"This is my first time buying a pair of Hoka shoes, but it won't be my last. They have quickly become my go-to and favorite sneakers. The toe box gives plenty of room. They run true to size and are amazingly comfortable. Love them." — Gizzys mom
Get them from Hoka for $165 (available in sizes 5–12 and in 40 colors).
17. Knee-high suede boots available in *eight* different calf widths, so you can find the perfect pair that actually fits without feeling constricted or looking gaping. Wear 'em over jeans, wear 'em with dresses and skirts — no matter what, the memory foam insole and slightly stretchy interior panel will keep you comfy.
DuoBoots
Promising review: "Love these boots, they fit perfectly. Took two weeks to wear in and since then have been incredibly comfortable. I have lupus and lots of foot issues including plantar fasciitis and arthritis and they are very comfortable." — Karen
Get them from DuoBoots for $340 (available in sizes 5—12 and in eight calf widths; also available in black leather).
18. Lucky Brand ankle boots that are available in dozens of colors and fabrics, because that's how much people have loved these for years. They're low enough to flash some ankle (show off those funky socks) or sit right under pants without bunching at the calf.
Heather Braga / BuzzFeed, www.amazon.com
FYI, if you have Amazon Prime you can try before you buy!
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)."
Promising review:"These are THE booties in my wardrobe. They carry me all through fall and winter. I would have kept my last pair longer, but my cat ate holes in them. They're a great ankle height for me, keep me warm when I wear them with socks, and are just an all around staple piece. Dress them up or dress them down, they're ready for anything." — Lisa V
Get them from Amazon for $49.20+ (available in sizes 5–13, including wide widths, and 61 colors and fabric styles).
19. Vintage-inspired Reebok sneakers with padded foam sock liners and impact-absorbing midsoles for comfort and a classic retro vibe that'll go with allllmost everything in your closet.
www.amazon.com, www.amazon.com
Get them from Amazon for $99.87+ (available in four sizes).
20. Suede boots that, at first glance, are classic black ankle booties with a chick, slightly pointed toe. But take a second look and check out those too-cool dark green embossed croc heels — if you want to get a lot of compliments on your kicks, look no further.
Ma'am Shoes
Ma'am Shoes is a woman-owned small business creating beautiful and comfortable shoes you can wear for years. If you are in between sizes, the brand recommends you size up.
Promising review:"The first day of wear can typically be a challenge for new shoes because I work long hours and am on my feet all day. I am thrilled to report that they wear wonderfully — they felt like I already owned them for a month — they were that comfortable! 10s across the board in my book. I sized 1/2 size up and am so glad I did. Definitely buying more soon." — Ashley Cornett