Chunky loafers are back in a big way! In fact, if you reach way back to 1998 in your closet, a similar lug sole pair may be gathering dust. Either polish them up and let them see the light of day or treat yourself to a new pair that accommodates your foot type and/or budget!
Why we love it:
- Received APMA (American Podiatric Medical Association) Seal of Acceptance for promoting good foot health.
- Soft unlined leather or suede uppers that pack easily.
- Contoured arch support and deep heel cup.
- Comes in brights and neutrals.
- Sizes up to 13!
Keep in mind:
- Has flexible outsole which is great for walking if you don’t have forefoot issues that require a non-flexible sole.
- Toe box could be too narrow for wider forefeet or feet with bunions.
- See actual feedback on this shoe from our Facebook followers.
Available in sizes 5-13, medium and wide widths for $130 from Vionic Shoes, Zappos, and Amazon.
Why we love it:
- Podiatrist-designed footbed with arch, heel and forefoot support
- Comes with Sole Saver pack of inserts to customize fit
- Beautiful biscuit leather (comes in black too)
- Orthotic friendly
Keep in mind:
- Doesn’t come in wides, so may fit too narrow on wider feet.
The Frankie4 Saint loafer is available in whole and half sizes 6-10,11 for $228 from Frankie4.
Why we love them:
- Comfortable fit and feel: room for toes/good fit at heel
- More lightweight than other chunky loafers
- Cushioned EVA footbed with arch support
- Made in Spain–the land of good shoes
Find the whole collection of Wonders chunky loafers in euro sizes 35-42 (5-11) for $210-220 from Nordstrom.
Why we love it:
- Elegant and modern. The slingback design lessens the heft of the chunky outsole.
- Good fit for narrow heels
- Comes in wides!
Find the Naturalizer Darry Slingback in sizes 5-12, medium and wide widths for $80 from Naturalizer.
Why we love it:
- Orthotic-like arch and heel support in a stylish loafer
- Removable EVA footbed
- Available in sizes up to 12 and wide widths
Keep in mind:
- Reviews state it runs a little large
- Narrow heels beware – quite a few reviews cite slippage
Find the Vionic Kensley in sizes 5-12, medium and wide widths for $60 from VionicShoes.com, Zappos and Nordstrom.
Why we love it:
- Price point under $100
- Lots of reviews on Zappos helps understand fit/feel of shoe
- Wide widths available
Keep in mind:
- Synthetic leather/patent – doesn’t have much give/stretch.
- No removable insole
The Franco Sarto Carolynn is available in whole and half sizes 5-10,11 for $69-99 from Zappos, Amazon an Nordstrom.
Why we love it:
- Extra wides and sizes 4-12
- Roomy toe box accommodates bunions and hammertoes
- Rigid shank provides stability
- Removable insole accommodates orthotic
- Seamless interior of shoe won’t rub on hot spots
Keep in mind:
- Runs a little large and wide
Find the Dr. Comfort Mallory in sizes 4-12, medium-extra wide widths for $117 at Dr. Comfort.
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