While all the talk these days is about how sedentary we’ve become as a species, in fact, for many of us, spending all day standing is a regular occurrence. Whether it’s for work—perhaps in construction, hospitality, retail, or healthcare—or for pleasure (all-day weddings, festivals, or sightseeing on holiday), we’re not always couch potatoes.
Standing all day isn’t enjoyable—even if it is for a party. Without good shoes for standing, being on your feet for multiple hours can cause lower back pain, blisters, corns, and calluses, all of which can quickly progress from a minor annoyance to major anguish. From plantar fasciitis to poor posture, niggles, twinges, and pangs can make having fun—or simply being productive—a struggle.
The wrong shoes can make long shifts worse and leave you hobbling around for a few days afterward. But the most comfortable shoes for standing all day put bounce in your step and give you stamina. The best shoes for standing all day have that get-up-and-go energy that makes any endeavor a breeze.
There’s a range of different kinds of shoes that are appropriate for spending hours on your feet, from slip-ons and luxury sneakers to work boots and comfort-optimized dress shoes. You’ve got everything from practical yet polished shoes for work in fancy environments to the best shoes for standing on concrete all day. Plus, there are the world’s most comfortable shoes—ones that are both laidback and lace-free. Because who has time for tying knots?
We’ve put together a list of the best shoes for standing all day, designed for everyone from social butterflies to hard-working professionals. We’re not saying a pair of shoes can change your life, but the best shoes for spending time on your feet can help you pull through the most challenging of days. Be nice to your feet. Think of everything they’ve done for you.
19 Best men’s shoes for standing all day
To facilitate your navigation, we’ve organized our list of the best men’s shoes for standing all day by category:
- Best men’s sneakers and athletic shoes for standing all day
- Best men’s work shoes for standing all day
- Best men’s slip-ons for standing all day
Check our special men’s shoes buying guide after the list to see exactly what you should pay attention to shopping for your next pair of shoes online.
Best men’s sneakers and athletic shoes for standing all day
Nike ZoomX Invincible Run Flyknit
We love our Nike Jordans for their street appeal, and we depend on our Nike running shoes for working out. But the brand’s best on your feet all-day shoes? The Nike ZoomX Invincible Run Flyknits.
They’re just the ticket for keeping us light on our toes after many hours standing up, thanks to the soft, lightweight, and responsive foam, breathable upper, and premium shock absorption. Extra width in the forefoot adds stability and spreads the weight and pressure, whether we’re standing on concrete, tarmac, or just walking the dog in the park.
Best for: A tried-and-true sporty classic for running errands and actual runs.
| Colors: | A range including black, white, and blue |
| Type: | Sneakers |
| Slip-resistant: | Yes |
| Material: | Flyknit |
Adidas Ultraboost 21
Whether you need a pair of athletic shoes for working out, walking around town, running after high-energy toddlers, or for your job as a retail assistant or a fitness instructor, these Adidas Ultra Boost 21s will keep you energized and ready to forge ahead. As the name suggests, they offer impressive energy return so each step boosts rather than drains your power supply.
You’ll also enjoy the minimum weight and the perfect amount of cushioning, as well as a supportive heel counter. Added bonus? The Primeblue material is partly made from recycled plastic.
Definitely some of the most comfortable sneakers around.
Best for: A wonderful combination of weightlessness and cloud-soft cushioning.
| Colors: | A range including black, blue, and white |
| Type: | Sneakers |
| Slip-resistant: | No |
| Material: | Primeblue (recycled synthetic) |
Allbirds Tree Runner
With their covetable title as the world’s most comfortable shoes, Allbirds are a natural choice when it comes to the best shoes for standing all day. Our favorites are the Tree Runners.
Whether you’re on your feet all day out of choice (maybe you’re on holiday with an extensive itinerary of sights to visit) or out of duty (you’re a teacher, perhaps), the Tree Runners will help you hit your stride from morning ‘til evening with a breathable eucalyptus tree fiber upper (responsibly sourced and pleasantly cooling), a midsole made of Brazilian sugarcane (bouncy and carbon negative) and a cushioned, moisture-wicking, and odor-resistant insole made from merino wool and castor bean oil.
Check our in-depth Allbirds review to learn more about the shoes, or read our story behind Allbirds to learn more about the brand itself.
Best for: A sustainable boost to get you through the most strenuous of shifts.
| Colors: | A range including black, navy, and grey |
| Type: | Sneakers |
| Slip-resistant: | No |
| Material: | Eucalyptus tree fiber |
New Balance Fresh Foam 1080v11
New Balance is always combining trendy aesthetics with optimum comfort, and the Fresh Foam 1080v11 is our top pick when it comes to a sneaker that we could happily race around all day in.
Designed for long-lasting snugness and softness, this shoe features responsive Fresh Foam—aka serious cushioning—along with a stretchy knit upper for flexibility, so that your foot feels supported but not constricted. One of our favorite features is the Ultra Heel technology that hugs the back of our foot kind of like our most encouraging and sympathetic friend.
Best for: Plush perfection and cushioned comfort to carry you through the longest days.
| Colors: | Black |
| Type: | Sneakers |
| Slip-resistant: | No |
| Material: | Synthetic |
Columbia Tamiami
A few features make the Columbia Tamiami an obvious choice when it comes to shoes that you can wear all day without returning home with swollen ankles and lower back strain.
First, there’s the Techlite lightweight midsole for cushioning with minimum extra weight and high energy return. There are little ports, too, for ventilation and cooling. Then there’s the Omni-Grip outsole with a tread that will ensure no slips or stumbles. They’re also non-marking—ideal for work environments with fancy wooden or tiled floors.
And the Omni-Shield upper repels moisture and dries quickly, ideal for any endeavor where mess is likely (i.e. daily life with kids). All of this combines to make these Columbia Tamiami boat-shoes some of the best shoes for walking and standing all day.
Best for: An ultra-practical stain and slip-resistant sneaker for those in it for the long run.
| Colors: | A range including black, navy, and grey |
| Type: | Sneakers |
| Slip-resistant: | Yes |
| Material: | Synthetic |
APL Athletic Propulsion TechLoom Tracer
What could better help us get through the most physically grueling of days than shoes that provide extra power, thrust, and drive?
That’s exactly what APL’s TechLoom Tracer training shoes do. While they’ve been expertly engineered for workouts, you don’t have to wear these shoes to deliberately build up a sweat. For any occasion where you might end up hot, sweaty, and tired—unintentionally or not—these running sneakers offer impressive lateral stability, a secure fit, smooth and sculpted heel, plus cushioned midsoles with outstanding rebound.
Hands-down, some of the best sneakers for standing all day.
Best for: Superior side-to-side support for days when you don’t stop moving.
| Colors: | Black |
| Type: | Sneakers |
| Slip-resistant: | No |
| Material: | Neoprene and mesh |
Hoka One One Bondi 7
The most cushioned shoe in Hoka’s line of running shoes, the Bondi 7 is ideal for long-distance runners and, therefore, anyone who plans to rack up lots of miles in a single day—for business or pleasure.
With an EVA midsole, breathable mesh upper, and the brand’s signature Meta-Rocker technology (designed to drive you forward), this shoe has a padded collar to cradle your Achilles and keep your ankle protected. You might be whizzing around all day, but with this level of cushioning, your feet will feel like they’re snoozing on the couch.
Best for: The kind of cushioning that we lie in bed dreaming about.
| Colors: | Black |
| Type: | Sneakers |
| Slip-resistant: | No |
| Material: | Mesh |
On Running Cloud X
On our search for the best athletic shoes for standing all day, the Cloud X by On Running had us instantly reaching for our credit card.
First up, these sneakers look super cool and even slightly futuristic. The shoe is also part of the brand’s CloudTec range which means it features Helion™ super foam, specifically designed for explosive movements (read: sprinting, jumping, bounding, leaping, and kicking).
Then there’s the Speedboard, a liquid-injected plate of thermoplastic polymer that adds energy to every step while absorbing the shock of landing. Plus, raised sidewalls offer stability and agility and ensure minimum floundering or falls.
Best for: Bringing unprecedented agility to every move you make.
| Colors: | Black |
| Type: | Sneakers |
| Slip-resistant: | No |
| Material: | Synthetic |
Best men’s work shoes for standing all day
The Original by Amberjack
From the office to an after-work cocktail, some jobs require you to look sleek, sophisticated, and professional at all times wearing your best pair of dress shoes. But it’s hard to keep up that courteous smile when your feet are throbbing.
This is why you need a pair of smart yet comfortable work shoes. And the best ones we’ve found are The Original by Amberjack. They’re made of 100% genuine leather with a modern and minimalist design, offering a sharp and refined look. And they’re packed with smart tech to keep you fresh and comfortable all day. Check our in-depth Amberjack shoes review to learn more.
In other words, these are seriously good ‘on your feet all day’ shoes.
Best for: Adding class and comfort to conventional work attire.
| Colors: | A large range including black, honey, and obsidian |
| Type: | Derby |
| Slip-resistant: | Yes |
| Material: | Leather and suede |
Clarks Desert Boots
Desert boots are our go-to’s when it comes to casual shoes for men, and, rather conveniently, they also happen to be some of the best shoes for walking and standing all day.
These Clarks Originals are everyone’s favorites. You could wear them for your shift as a waiter and straight to the bar afterward for drinks with friends. They look effortlessly elegant and are also really comfortable thanks to the slightly wider last (better weight distribution) and crepe-effect rubber sole for grip and durability.
Plus, as part of Clarks’ OrthoLite range, they have a footbed with gait-mapping technology for right-on-target breathable cushioning.
Best for: Shoes to get you through your shift and straight to the chicest cocktail bar in town.
| Colors: | A range including sand, brown, and black |
| Type: | Desert boot |
| Slip-resistant: | No |
| Material: | Suede |
Timberland PRO Powertrain
If your job involves hours standing around on hard surfaces, then you need these Timberland Pro Powertrains on your feet.
The best shoes for standing on concrete all day, they’re lightweight and casual to look at but feature anti-fatigue technology, slip-resistant outsoles, as well as EH protection, and alloy safety toes for extra security at work. Factories, warehouses, or literally anywhere with unforgiving floors—these shoes will banish pain and discomfort for good.
Best for: Conquering the concrete, no matter how many hours you spend on it.
| Colors: | A range including black, grey, and blue |
| Type: | Work boot |
| Slip-resistant: | Yes |
| Material: | Textile |
Oliver Cabell Mock
Oliver Cabell manages to achieve the impossible. High-quality footwear at a super affordable price point.
Don’t believe us? Check out the cost breakdown of these Mock Boots. You’ll see exactly where your money was spent.
But the main reason we love these Oliver Cabell Mock is that they’re super comfortable thanks to the molded insole, protective steel shanks, and Vibram Morflex outsole, which delivers lightweight durability and great grip, absorbing the shock of impact, step after step. Kind to our feet without compromising on the cool factor, these are some of the best shoes for standing all day.
Check our in-depth review of Oliver Cabell’s sneakers and our profile on Oliver Cabell’s brand.
Best for: A prepared-for-anything fazed-by-nothing kinda cool.
| Colors: | Brown |
| Type: | Moc boot |
| Slip-resistant: | Yes |
| Material: | Water-resistant full-grain vegetable-tanned leather |
Ecco New Jersey
The kind of shoe you could wear both in front of your boss and in front of your friends, at business functions, and to fashionable restaurants, the New Jersey by Ecco is an easy-going loafer with a trendy bicycle toe, low stacked heel, and leather-covered insole for comfort and cushioning.
A long-lasting polyurethane outsole is flexible and shock-absorbing and requires basically no break-in period. PU also retains its shape, so you’ll experience the same support today as you do in the months to come.
Finally, we’re big fans of Ecco’s Freedom Fit which offers plenty of space in the toe box, spreading and supporting our weight.
Best for: Understated sophistication combined with strain and stress-free comfort.
| Colors: | Black or brown |
| Type: | Loafers |
| Slip-resistant: | No |
| Material: | Leather |
Sperry Striper Plushwave CVO Sneakers
Not all sneakers are work-appropriate but these ones by Sperry sneak under the radar thanks to their slick leather uppers. If your office has a smart casual dress code, then do your feet a favor with a pair of Sperry leather sneakers—some of the best sneakers for standing all day.
They feel like high-performance athletic shoes thanks to the extra cushioning technology for bounce, grip, and rebound, but they appear more like luxury sneakers. The rubber outsole offers traction and is non-marking, making these a great choice for those who work in establishments with expensive wooden floors.
Best for: Plush comfort meets urban polish.
| Colors: | A range including brown, blue, and white |
| Type: | Sneakers |
| Slip-resistant: | Yes |
| Material: | Full grain leather |
Red Wing 8138 Moc
Red Wing makes some of the best boots for men so it’s no surprise that they’re also the name behind some of the best work shoes for standing all day. These Red Wing Moc Leather Boots first caught our eye because of the unconventional yet elegant design with its moccasin-style toe, chunky sole, and dark-brown leather.
To wear, they’re also exceptionally comfortable, with a roomy toe box and Goodyear-welted rubber soles with dependable traction. They were originally worn by farm and factory workers yet look stylish enough to accompany you to after-work socials.
Best for: High-performance footwear that feels fashion-forward too.
| Colors: | Brown |
| Type: | Moc boot |
| Slip-resistant: | Yes |
| Material: | Leather |
Best men’s slip-ons for standing all day
Merrell Encore Gust
Fed up with trendy footwear that may win you admiring glances from fashionistas but couldn’t care less about the comfort of your feet? We hear you. Grab yourself a pair of Merrell’s Encore Slip-ons.
These are seriously comfortable and low-maintenance shoes with a shock-absorbing air cushion in the heel to protect your feet and a compression-molded EVA foot frame for stability and all-day comfort. An Ortholite anatomical footbed adds cushioning, while the breathable mesh will keep your feet sweat-free. A great choice for those where practicality is paramount, such as healthcare workers, they’re some of the most comfortable shoes for standing all day.
Best for: Helping you to survive and thrive, whatever the workday throws at you.
| Colors: | Brown or black |
| Type: | Slip-on |
| Slip-resistant: | No |
| Material: | Full grain leather |
M.Gemi The Corso Shearling
If you think slip-ons can be a little frumpy and nerdy, then take a look at these M. Gemi driving shoes. A lesson in how to be ridiculously stylish without seeming to try, they’re made from locally sourced Tuscan suede with a moccasin construction that means no lace-tying and slipper-like comfort.
Along with their outrageously luxurious shearling interior, they’re perfect working-from-home attire. We could wear them for Zoom meetings and post-lunch naps on the sofa as well as for walking around town. With rubber-pegged gommini soles, they’ve got plenty of grips too.
Learn more about the story behind M.GEMI.
Best for: Decadent footwear that’s durable enough to endure a little exertion.
| Colors: | Tan, brown, or grey |
| Type: | Driving shoe |
| Slip-resistant: | Yes |
| Material: | Suede |
Skechers Loafer
Gone are the days when we’d sacrifice comfort for a pair of fashionable yet painfully unpractical shoes. These days, we’re all about cushioning and flexibility.
This is why we’re converted to this Skechers Loafer. Sure, you probably wouldn’t wear these slip-ons for date night. But for 9-5s that have you constantly on your toes, they’re some of the most comfortable shoes around. They’ve got a gel-infused memory foam with high rebound to keep you powered up along with pressure relief and breathability. Plus the insole is moisture-wicking so no damp and smelly feet either.
Best for: Business-means-business practicality and energy for your 9-5.
| Colors: | Brown or black |
| Type: | Loafer |
| Slip-resistant: | No |
| Material: | Leather |
Birkenstock Arizona
Birkenstocks have become some of the most iconic summer staples of the last few years, and we’re happy to jump on the bandwagon thanks to the shoes’ unbeatable comfort and earthy charm.
The Birkenstock Arizona features a durable oiled upper, a raised toe bar that allows your feet to grip naturally (no slipping and sliding around like with standard flip-flops), and a suede-lined contoured footbed that molds to the shape of your foot for customized comfort and cradling support.
Finally, the deep heel cup can hold your foot securely while distributing your weight evenly for minimal pressure and pain. Good shoes for standing that are also summer-holiday-ready? Tick.
Best for: Famously comfortable sandals for holiday sightseeing and all-day escapades.
| Colors: | Brown, black, or tan |
| Type: | Sandals |
| Slip-resistant: | No |
| Material: | Leather, suede, and cork |
Buyers guide: How to choose a pair of men’s shoes for standing all day
When buying a pair of shoes specifically designed for spending all day on your feet, there are a couple of things to consider as well as certain features that you may want to seek out.
Stability and support
Foot and heel pain is often due to a lack of arch support. Plantar fasciitis, in particular, requires arch support that suits your particular walking gait. Look for shoes that have good shock absorption as well as motion control to correct overpronation or supination.
You might also consider shoes with a heel counter that cradles the heel and arch, creating a snug and locked-in feeling and minimizing over-pronation.
Meanwhile, a steel shank is often found in boots and can help maintain stability and the shape of your foot while protecting you from possible injuries.
However, while you want stability from your shoes, flexibility is also important. Look for a stretchy upper that will allow your feet to flex as you walk and doesn’t feel too constricting.
Cushioning and shock-absorption
Feet suffer from the pressure and impact of lots of walking. If you’re on the hunt for the best shoes for walking on concrete, in particular, you want to ensure they’ve got plenty of cushioning and shock absorption.
Look for shoes with cushioning foam that can absorb shock while still being responsive, returning to its original shape—or rebounding—to give you more energy return.
The best foam will provide cushioning on both the heel and forefoot. It will also ease pressure and distribute weight evenly. OrthoLite is a good option, with its spring-like sensation when you walk, returning to shape as you move and giving you extra lift.
The best shoes for standing all day also feature molded EVA footbeds that are shock-absorbing and help support your foot, holding it in place while still being lightweight.
Wide fit
Additional width in the toe box or forefoot increases stability and allows you to spread your weight and minimize pressure. This is why many running shoes aren’t always the most comfortable sneakers for standing all day as they fit too snugly. You want something with a broader midsole and spacious upper so the toes aren’t cramped.
Additional features
- Padded collar – this offers extra stability for your ankle and minimizes the chances of rolling it.
- Water-resistant upper – look for a material that is water-repellent as well as breathable so water doesn’t penetrate, but your feet don’t get sweaty either. A moisture-wicking insole is another good feature.
- Non-slip outsoles – although it doesn’t improve comfort, having shoes that help to maintain grip on slippery surfaces is important. Look for rubber soles with lots of traction.
- Higher heel – a slightly higher heel drop will alleviate pressure on your Achilles and calves.
Style
There are different styles of shoes that are suitable for standing all day. Choose according to when you plan to use them. Work shoes, for example, need to look professional and smart, so try Oxfords or brogues. If you work in a factory or similar, you’ll want shoes that can withstand the pressure of many hours spent standing on concrete floors.
But if you simply want shoes for walking around or running errands, athletic sneakers or slip-ons could be a good option. These can look aesthetically pleasing too.
Frequently asked questions about the best men’s shoes for standing all day
The best men’s shoes to wear if you’re on your feet all day include sneakers by brands like Nike and Adidas, which offer lightweight cushioning and shock absorption, as well as Timberland PRO Powertrains, which feature anti-fatigue technology.
The best brand for shoes for standing all day include Nike, Timberland, and Skechers. They all make comfortable shoes with solid shock absorption and cushioning. Check out our guide to the best shoes for standing all day for more inspiration.
The best shoes for standing on concrete all day are Timberland’s PRO Powertrains which feature anti-fatigue technology and slip-resistant outsoles. They’re also EH protected and have alloy safety toes, making them a great work boot.
