10 Comfy, Stylish Sneakers That Are Perfect For Busy Moms
:upscale()/2024/06/19/838/n/24155406/b96cd9ef66732c931eedf6.82794156_.jpg)
Moms understand the demands of raising kids are boundless — and that means being ready and prepared for whatever the day brings is requisite for the job. When you're on your feet for hours at a time, chasing after little ones and shuttling them from activity to activity, the right pair of sneakers can be a game changer. (And since you're not like a regular mom, you're a cool mom, you of course want to maintain your sense of style amid the chaos.) But what should moms look for in a pair of kicks that can keep up with their busy days?
"The key features moms should consider are whether the shoes have a wide enough toe box, whether they are the correct size, and whether they have the appropriate amount of flexibility in the sole of the shoe," board-certified podiatrist Dr. Alissa Kuizinas, DPM, tells PS. "Many sneakers and casual shoes have narrow toe boxes and stiff soles that can be very destructive for feet and can cause day-to-day foot pain as well."
If you're searching for a comfortable walking sneaker that will withstand your packed to-do list, stylish kicks that can take you from playdate to night out, or a tennis shoe that offers the proper support for your achy arches, we've got you covered. Here are 10 sneakers for active moms looking for a sneaker that can multitask as a reliable work shoe for days in and out of the home.
— Additional reporting by Angela Elias
Experts Featured in This Article
Dr. Alissa Kuizinas, DPM is a board certified podiatrist and founder of Doctor Ark, who practices in the Boston, MA area.
:upscale()/2024/06/19/821/n/24155406/a71af29cd26e82fd_netimggSEb7u.webp)
Best Slip-on Sneaker
Vans Reissue 98 Slip-On Sneaker ($80)
Step back into the late '90s with this iconic shoe that's been revamped for extra comfort with trend-forward details. It features a glossy platform sole and is built with an anti-fatigue Sola Foam insole. We love it in this Checkerboard Pesto color for a twist on the classic black and white.
:quality(70):extract_cover():upscale():fill(ffffff)/2024/06/19/821/n/24155406/a71af29cd26e82fd_netimggSEb7u.webp)
:upscale()/2024/05/15/839/n/24155406/ff223a3ec37be775_netimgKa4Oe1.webp)
Best Heritage Sneaker
Nike Dunk Low Basketball Sneaker ($115)
This heritage basketball shoe scores points for its vintage-meets-modern aesthetic and comfortable feel. It boasts plenty of nostalgic '80s style, but the padded, low-cut collar makes them especially great for being on your feet for long periods of time.
:quality(70):extract_cover():upscale():fill(ffffff)/2024/05/15/839/n/24155406/ff223a3ec37be775_netimgKa4Oe1.webp)
:upscale()/2024/06/19/821/n/24155406/003f9f6f83821076_netimgopZwxx.webp)
Best Suede Sneakers
Adidas Gazelle Indoor Sneaker ($120)
When you need a splash of color, you can't go wrong with a classic pair of Adidas Gazelles. This Fig shade is perfect for breaking up neutrals without being too loud. The smooth suede outer, soft interior cushioning, and removable sole make this shoe especially comfortable. It looks just as good paired with denim cutoffs as it does a pretty midi dress, so have fun!
:quality(70):extract_cover():upscale():fill(ffffff)/2024/06/19/821/n/24155406/003f9f6f83821076_netimgopZwxx.webp)
:upscale()/2024/06/19/821/n/24155406/ccdfe20839ad4541_netimgwiowly.webp)
Best Mid Sneaker
Air Jordan 1 Mid Sneaker ($125)
Sneakerhead moms will appreciate this updated version of the Nike Air Jordans. It has Zoom Air cushioning for the soles, padding around the ankles, and contrasting leather colors with touches of suede. Throw these on with joggers and a baseball cap for low-key dress days and you'll instantly feel cooler.
:quality(70):extract_cover():upscale():fill(ffffff)/2024/06/19/821/n/24155406/ccdfe20839ad4541_netimgwiowly.webp)
:upscale()/2024/06/19/821/n/24155406/c3f91f7ca1cf25b1_netimgUp6f1w.webp)
Best Platform Sneaker
Puma Fenty Creeper Sneaker ($140)
This collaboration between Fenty and Puma is too good to miss. The chunky platform sole offers a height boost and looks chic with more elevated pieces like trouser pants and dresses. It's the ideal shoe for looking stylish while staying comfortable.
:quality(70):extract_cover():upscale():fill(ffffff)/2024/06/19/821/n/24155406/c3f91f7ca1cf25b1_netimgUp6f1w.webp)
:upscale()/2024/06/19/821/n/24155406/cd8fc3bc4dbccab5_netimguLIwGx.webp)
Best Running Shoe
On Cloud 5 Running Shoe ($140)
If you're looking for a shoe you'll want to wear all day after you've gone for a run, this is it. The bouncy cushioning and easy slip on and off design with "speed lacing" will quickly make them a favorite in your closet.
:quality(70):extract_cover():upscale():fill(ffffff)/2024/06/19/821/n/24155406/cd8fc3bc4dbccab5_netimguLIwGx.webp)
:upscale()/2024/05/15/839/n/24155406/7aad81b0cc43f9d8_netimgN7r3s0.webp)
Best Overall Sneaker
Veja Impala Sneaker ($150-$160)
There are many reasons people rave about this French brand. These comfortable, breathable shoes are loved by celebrities like Meghan Markle and are made from sustainable and ethically sourced materials. This pair gets our top billing because it has all the characteristics of a great sneaker: the neutral colorway makes it versatile enough to wear for a workout or a long day on your feet, and it is lightweight but offers enough stability to keep your feet feeling their best.
:quality(70):extract_cover():upscale():fill(ffffff)/2024/05/15/839/n/24155406/7aad81b0cc43f9d8_netimgN7r3s0.webp)
:upscale()/2024/05/15/839/n/24155406/ccb48856d7803fe2_netimgu01hZ2.webp)
Best High-Top Sneaker
Comme des Garçons PLAY Converse Chuck Taylor High Top Sneaker ($150)
If you want the comfort and familiarity of a classic Chuck Taylor high-top but are craving something slightly more elevated, this collaboration with Comme des Garçons PLAY is for you. The peeking heart motif was created by New York graphic artist Filip Pagowski and Comme des Garçons's designer Rei Kawakubo. It's just the thing for testing out the "unexpected red theory" that made waves on TikTok.
:quality(70):extract_cover():upscale():fill(ffffff)/2024/05/15/839/n/24155406/ccb48856d7803fe2_netimgu01hZ2.webp)
:upscale()/2024/06/19/821/n/24155406/672f2c0be82c9167_netimg84NQYw.webp)
Best Cloud Support Sneakers
Nike Air Max 270 Sneaker ($160)
Between the cozy knit sock upper, the bubbly cushion heels, and breathable mesh, these shoes are incredibly popular for good reason. They're well suited for a workout but will get you through a day spent running errands or getting your steps in at zoos and parks.
:quality(70):extract_cover():upscale():fill(ffffff)/2024/06/19/821/n/24155406/672f2c0be82c9167_netimg84NQYw.webp)
:upscale()/2024/05/15/839/n/24155406/ec7dd9a07de2dbcd_netimgtHXth2.webp)
Best Statement Sneaker
AllSaints Sheer Low Top Sneaker ($189)
For a bolder sneaker that can be teamed with everything from comfy utility suits to dresses and jeans, these fashionable kicks are a perfect option. They have subtle distressing and an embossed print that gives them extra texture and patina. We love that they incorporate several metallic tones, so they can easily be mixed and matched with jewelry. These run slightly small, so you may want to consider going up half a size.
:quality(70):extract_cover():upscale():fill(ffffff)/2024/05/15/839/n/24155406/ec7dd9a07de2dbcd_netimgtHXth2.webp)
:upscale()/2024/05/15/904/n/24155406/fc3a723acc01c8a1_Commerce_Mini_Bio_Slides.png)
Devan McGuinness (she/they) is a Canadian disabled writer, editor, and social strategist who covers politics, entertainment, parenting, and lifestyle. Devan has contributed to PS, Fatherly, Parents, Scary Mommy, Mom.com, and more over her 10-plus years in digital media, specializing in stories that matter most to families.
Angela Elias is a contributing editor for PS Commerce. In her former roles at PS, she led the relaunch of its Latine identity and family-focused verticals, directed its Home vertical, and hosted shopping segments. She has nearly 15 years of experience working in the lifestyle space as a writer, editor, content strategist, director, on-camera talent, and publicist.