Although I did not yet know the term “toe box,” I knew I needed a shoe that didn’t constrict my painful toes. I never had to worry about arch support before, but now the joints in my mid-foot were shifting due to active RA. Having absolutely no idea which kind of shoe would work for me, I walked into Nordstrom and was quickly overwhelmed by all the choices.

A kind lady listened to my woes and walked me to the display of Dansko clogs. I picked out a simple black mary jane clog. I took a few steps and knew I’d found a winner. I turned the shoe over to check the price and noticed the style name….Kirsten. My namesake shoe (the Dansko Sam bears a close resemblance). My Dansko Sams were a game-changer for me as a teacher with rheumatoid arthritis–they restored comfort back into my classroom days.

I understand how the right pair of teacher shoes can make or break your day. Allow me to help you find that perfect pair of comfortable shoes for female teachers from sneakers to flats to ankle boots (and at the bottom of the article you’ll find 20 more recommendations from our educator Facebook fans).

18 TOP COMFORTABLE SHOES FOR TEACHERS 2025:

Before we get started, I just picked up a pair of Clarks Westlynn Bella loafers and couldn’t wait to tell you about them, so I shot this quick video review! I refer to them as the “goldilocks” of lug-sole loafers because they’re “just right” in a few categories: cushioning, arch support, versatility and affordability.

• Sizes: 5-12 • Widths: M & W • Price: $69-95 from Clarks, Zappos, Nordstrom Rack & Amazon

SNEAKERS

“I used to wear Vans, but with my plantar fasciitis and Morton’s Neuroma they didn’t offer the support I needed. These shoes do and I wear them all spring and summer.” – Taos customer and teacher, Kelly

The premium leather Taos Plim Soul Lux sneaker features a Curves & Pods® premium removable footbed featuring arch and metatarsal support, while also having a thicker and higher platform. Silvadur treatment is used for lasting protection against odor, staining, and deterioration.

• Sizes: 6-12 • Widths: M & W • Price: $169-190 from Taos Footwear, Amazon & Zappos

“My workplace requires all black shoes and no logos. These are perfect to stand in for over 8 hours. They are extremely comfortable and have a wide toe box perfect for standing and walking all day.” -Fitflop customer, CRG24

This new sneaker from Fitflop features the same Anatomicush midsole as their ever-popular Rally sneaker, but with a hint more cushioning. Available in white, black, metallics and leopard print; lace-up and slip-on options.

• Sizes: 5-11 • Width: M • Price: $83-110 from Fitflop, Zappos & Amazon

SLIP-ONS:

These silver shoes score high grades for comfort in a lightweight slip-on. The Vionic Uptown Willa features a removable footbed with deep heel cup and arch support surrounded in soft leathers and a lightweight synthetic rubber outsole.

• Sizes: 5-13 • Widths: M & W • Price: $95-135 from Vionic, Nordstrom & Amazon

“I have such a hard time with shoes, and my feet always hurt. I was born with terrible bunions. I’m also a teacher and on my feet about 8 hours a day, walking on concrete. These have made me feel so much better, and now my hips and knees are experiencing some relief too.” Ryka customer Beth

An APMA (American Podiatric Medical Association) approved shoe that’s affordable, supportive and accommodating of bunions and hammertoes, the Ryka Echo Knit sneaker earns top-notch reviews for all-day comfort and ranks number 4 in our list of best shoes for teaching.

• Sizes: 5-12 • Widths: M & W •Price: $53-69 from Ryka, Zappos & Amazon

“These are so comfy and cute with a little lift. They look good with a dress or pants. I know they are going to get a work out this year in my classroom.” – Karen, Allbirds customer

Everything you love about Allbirds in a modern slip-on platform sneaker. A thick cotton canvas upper, removable wool-lined insole and sturdy but supportive bio-based EVA called SweetFoam® make this slip-on an all-day winner.

• Sizes: 5-11 • Width: M • Price: $63-105 from Allbirds & Zappos • Budget dupe: Dr. Scholl’s Madison Cloud

“I am a teacher and these are the MOST comfortable shoes I have ever bought. I am so happy with the look, the feel, and the ability to wash them when needed. I love how you can remove the soles and just wash those if needed.” – Rothy’s customer Jessica

I’m beginning to believe there’s a Rothy’s shoe for everyone. As a former teacher, I’d never opt for the pointed-toe flat, their supportive clogs and round-toe sneakers are a different story! Customers note that the footbed in the OG slip-on sneakers feels more cushioned and supportive than the insole in the flats.

• Sizes: 5-13 • Width: M • Price: $79-99 from Rothy’s (discount program available for educators)

MULES/CLOGS:

I have debilitating ankle pain that impacts how I walk. As a science teacher, I need to be on my feet all day and able to walk about the room continuously. These shoes are light so lifting my foot does not cause pain and planting my foot on the hard surface of the floor is padded nicely by these shoes. – Amazon customer

Do you love the support of the original Dansko clogs but are prone to roll an ankle in them? Look no further than the Dansko Merrin mule. With a lightweight cork midsole, enhanced arch support, roomy toe box, your tired teacher feet will feel rejuvenated! An adjustable hook and loop back strap keeps the heel secure. Dansko even has a page dedicated to comfortable teacher shoes–see here!

• Sizes: euro 36-42 (5.5-11) • Width: M • Price: $95-155 from Dansko, Zappos & Amazon

I kept a pair of these under my desk at my most recent teaching gig. They are just a smidge dressier than the Birkenstock Boston (which is also highly recommended), with the same comforting cork/latex arch support. The Buckley runs a bit more narrow than the Boston.

• Size: 35-42 (4.5-11.5) • Width: Narrow/Med. •Price: $139-154 from Birkenstock, Zappos & Nordstrom • More Affordable Dupe: White Mountain Bueno

A roomier fit and more supportive feel than your Rothy’s flats–hurray! I actually picked up a pair and video-reviewed them here–the contoured footbed is heavenly on my aching feet. The Rothy’s Buckle Clog features a bouclé-knit upper and an adjustable instep strap for a good fit. The footbed is surprisingly supportive with arch and metatarsal support. Not only do they look good, they’re machine washable!

• Sizes: 5-13 • Width: M (but run wide) • Price: $99-119 from Rothy’s (educator discount available)

FLATS / LOAFERS:

The Barking Dog Facebook community gives high marks to the Vionic Uptown loafer–read the glowing reviews here. Teachers will love this stylish loafer; it’s lightweight yet supportive, cushioned and shock-absorbing–perfect for all-day wear (and it’s APMA approved)!

• Sizes: 5-13 • Widths: M & W • Price: $55-145 from Vionic Shoes, Zappos & Nordstrom • Budget Dupe: Anne Klein Kalypso

The perfect comfortable shoes for teachers for transitioning to fall weather with the closed toe yet open midfoot, the Dansko Rowan earns a thumbs up from happy Zappos customers. Dr. Saylee Tulpule, a podiatrist in the DC area with quite the instagram following highly recommends the Dansko Rowan, “It’s the perfect hybrid of sandal and shoe, designed with your foot health in mind. So many of my patients have been wearing these this summer!”

• Sizes: Euro 36-42 (5.5-11) • Width: M • Price: $90-140 from Dansko, Zappos & Nordstrom • Amazon dupe: Athletfit Closed Toe Sandal

Be that teacher in hot pink shoes! If your feet crave soft, flexible, lightly cushioned footwear with moderate arch support, the Ariat Selene may work well for you. The reviews are coming in 5 stars!

•Sizes: 5.5-11 • Width: M • Price: $119.95 from Ariat , Zappos & Amazon

SANDALS

“These shoes have taken away my back pain and most of my headaches. I’m a teacher and I’m on my feet a lot. I go home not hurting any more. You will not regret the purchase. I bought every neutral color!! About 5 teachers around me bought them too. It’s the “crocs preschool hallway.”

For warmer climates and seasons, the Crocs Brooklyn Low wedge scores high marks from teachers! If you’ve shunned Crocs in the past, you haven’t experienced the lightweight yet substantial cushion and support of Croslite material.

• Sizes: 4-11 • Width: M • Price: $41-55 from Crocs, Zappos & Amazon

ANKLE BOOTS

“It’s very difficult for me to find shoes for my wide toe box (bunions) and high arches. These did the trick. They’re not as cute as some other black booties, but they were comfortable for my feet as a teacher.” – Zappos customer

Keep your feet dry during rainy recess and bus duty in the Born Cove waterproof bootie! A round toe, removable latex cushioned footbed with arch support and embedded steel shank for stability make this stylish bootie an all-day winner.

• Sizes: 6-11 • Width: M • Price: $111-175 from Zappos, Nordstrom & Amazon

Street-cred guaranteed, the Dr. Martens Zebzag Laceless boot is perfect for mornings when you’re in a hurry. Slip them on and go. If you struggle with forefoot pain, you’ll appreciate the firm Doc Martens outsole that limits toe motion. The SoftWair insoles can make the typically firm feel of a new pair of Dr. Martens boots feel more like a sneaker.

• Sizes: 6-12 • Width: M • Price: $90- 160 from Dr. Martens, Zappos & Nordstrom

We love the slight wedge heel on the Born Vaughn suede bootie, not to mention the hand-knotted tassles and beautiful colorways available. Reviews mention that the toe box is accommodating of bunions.

• Sizes: 6-11 • Width: M • Price: $75- 150 from Zappos, Amazon & Nordstrom

“I am completely in love with these shoes. As a teacher I am on my feet all day and sometimes in weird positions, such as crouching, for extended periods of time. I have never found a pair of shoes that I could wear all day let alone continue to wear them after school to run errands! They are incredibly comfortable and stylish!” – Ecco customer The T.

The ECCO Soft 7 Low Bootie combines sleek style with all-day comfort. The premium leather upper is soft and forgiving. A removable insole allows for extra width if needed. With its flexible sole and supportive fit, this bootie moves with you through the classroom, down the halls and around the playground. Read a first-hand account on fit and feel from Barking Dog Shoes reader Joanne.

• Sizes: 4-12 • Width: M • Price: $98-150 from Zappos & Amazon

“I’m a teacher and am on my feet almost all day and the cork soles and arch support, along with the wider toe box make these shoes very teacher-friendly.”

Not only comfortable and stylish, they’re waterproof! Bus duty? Recess duty? No problem for the Sofft Pecola. Constructed from waterproof, stain-resistant leathers and suedes with sealed seams, this chunky ankle boot will keep your feet high and dry. The grippy outsole provides excellent traction. Find the Sofft Pecola in sizes 6-11 for $63-143 from Zappos, Amazon and

Facebook Teacher Favorite Shoes:

1. Hoka Bondi – Cushioned and supportive, great for all-day standing.
   • “Hokas everyday!!” – Teresa T.
2. Dansko Clogs – A favorite among teachers for their arch support and durability.
   • “Dansko clogs! 21 years and have never found anything better!” – Julie S.
3. Vionic Beach Pismo Sneakers – Stylish and supportive with great arch support. Come in wides.
4. New Balance 847 – Motion control bar helps with plantar fasciitis.
   • “I wear New Balance 847’s because they have the motion control bar.” – Heather D.
5. Alegria Keli – Designed for foot stabilization and hallux rigidus relief.
   • “Best I’ve found for stabilizing my feet. These shoes keep me walking.” – Amanda P.
6. Birkenstock Boston Clogs – Contoured footbed provides excellent support.
   • “Birkenstock Boston clog, and can you believe now they are ‘in’ with the kids at middle school??” – Kellie M.
7. Taos Sneakers (with Zipper) – Good arch support and easy on/off.
   • “Taos sneakers w/ zipper (I’m a home visitor, so easy on/off).” – Heather M.
8. Ryka Sneakers – Wide toe box accommodates orthotics and foot issues.
   • “I love Ryka, Skechers, Alegria. They all have room in the toe area.” – Vikki W.
9. Brooks Adrenaline – A stability shoe great for standing and walking long hours.
10. Sorel Sneakers – Good for toe arthritis and general foot pain.
    • “Sorel sneakers for Hallux Rigidus. Sorel’s shoes are in general good for toe arthritis.” – Suzanne I.
11. FitFlop Delicato Mary Janes & Loafers – Stylish yet supportive like sneakers.
    • “I have the Mary Janes and the loafers and they are PERFECT. Like sneakers, but cute.” – Madeleine G.
12. Altra Lone Peak – Wide toe box and excellent grip for various surfaces.
    • “I love that they’re flexible with a wide toe box. That area is prime real estate.” – Denise P.
13. Skechers Arch Fit Booties – Provides casual style with comfort.
14. Vans (with Arch Inserts) – Trendy, but can be made comfortable with inserts.
15. Lems Primal Zen – Wide toe box and lightweight, good for bunions and flat feet.
    • “They’re transitional shoes with wide toe boxes. Work much better for me than the overly cushy but toe squeezing Hokas.” – Lee
16. Oofos Recovery Shoes – Ideal for reducing foot fatigue during and post-work.
17. Sanita Clogs – Similar to Danskos, great for plantar fasciitis relief.
    • Danskos or Sanitas for plantar fasciitis.” – Heather D.
18. Topo Athletic Magnifly – Low-drop sneaker with wide toe box for stability.
19. Saucony Hurricane – Cushioned with good support in the heel and toe area.
    • “I like the Saucony Hurricane better than the Hokas. They are very cushioned, but also have good support in the heel and under the toes.” – Laura B.
20. Ariat FatBaby Boots – Winter-ready boots with great comfort and traction. Wide toe box.
    • “Ariat FatBaby boots for winter! They’re comfortable and navigate slushy weather easily.” – Angelia R.

The post 17 Amazing Comfortable Shoes for Teachers: 2025 appeared first on Barking Dog Shoes.

• 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.

The post 8 Fabulous & Foot-Friendly Chunky Loafers 2025 appeared first on Barking Dog Shoes.

The original Taos Crave boot now has a Mini Me and isn’t she beautiful? If you own the original, I don’t have to tell you how wonderfully supportive it is. The mini version has all the same comfort features as the original: arch and metatarsal support, cushioned footbed that’s removable, grippy rubber outsole and side zipper for easy on and off.

• Sizes: euro 37-42 (6-11.5) • Widths: M & W (in some colors) • Price: $230 from Taos Footwear, Zappos & Amazon

Oh, so many colors and patterns – how will you choose? The stylish square-toe Vivaia Ryan features a water-repellent stretch upper made from recycled water bottles, cushioned (non-removable) insole with moderate arch support and one-inch heel with anti-slip rubber outsole.

• Sizes: 5-11 • Width: M • Price: $89-149 from Vivaia,

They accommodate my high arch/high instep feet easily with room for medium or heavy weight socks, and I easily added my orthotics. _{Nordstrom customer}

We love a nice chunky heel and the Josef Seibel Marta 03 wears it well. With flexible goring on one side and a zipper on the other side, these comfortable ankle boots are easy to put on and take off. A generous toe box accommodates bunions and wider forefeet. Reviews state the boot runs a little large, you may want to order down a size unless you plan to wear with thick socks. Find the Josef Seibel Marta 03 in sizes 5.5-11 for $125-180 from Amazon and Zappos.

I wanted some boots to accommodate my wide feet (including painful bunions) and these have been and excellent fit. I use the half inserts to give a bit more space in the toe box. The boots are excellent quality and looking great dressed up or down. _{Melody, Frankie4 customer}

Beautiful and foot-friendly, the Frankie4 Liberty classes up any outfit. Each pair comes with a Sole Saver pack enabling a customized fit (two full-length footbeds, two half-length footbeds and two forefoot cushions). Available for in sizes 6-13 for $194-278 from Frankie4 and Nordstrom.

Great for feet that crave a roomy and high toe box! Other features to love: surprisingly lightweight outsoles, great traction, moderate arch support. A happy Ariat customer says this about the Fatbaby Chelsea boot: “I love these boots. I have wide feet and often have trouble with squeezy toe boxes. These fat baby Chelsea boots are roomy in the toe box, super cushy comfortable and have an arch support. I’m also in love with the print!” Availabe in a variety of solids and patterns, sizes 5.5-12 medium and wide widths (in some colors) for $77-109.95 from Ariat, Zappos and Amazon.

 I have a neuroma, a painful foot condition, and have trouble find shoes that don’t exacerbate the condition. These boots are fantastic! _{Naot customer}

Israeli brand Naot does it again with the Pali lace-up boot with faux shearling collar. Featuring Naot’s removable cork/latex footbed, the Pali provides structured support while maintaining a lightweight feel on the feet. Find the Naot Pali in euro sizes 35-43 (4-12) for $119-214.95 from Naot.com, Zappos, and Amazon.

I have hammer toes and find most shoes to be very uncomfortable.. until these boots! _{Orthofeet customer}

With too many features to mention here, these comfortable ankle boots come with premium orthotic insoles plus an arch booster for extra support and fitting spacers for a more loose or snug fit. A generous and high toe box accommodates bunions, neuromas and hammertoes. The Orthofeet Emma is available in sizes 6-11, medium and wide widths for $119.95 from Orthofeet.com and Amazon.

The post 8 Cute, Comfortable Ankle Boots Bring Blissful Relief to Problem Feet appeared first on Barking Dog Shoes.

Sandals are ok, but I’m usually trying to cover up a side bunion on the other foot. Platform sandals might be OK if the heel height isn’t much higher than the toes which isn’t more than 1/2″. Do you have any ideas?

Dear reader,

Hallux Rigidus (big toe stiffness and pain) only worsens with flexible forefoot shoes, as you know. I’d like to tell you to stay in closed-toe footwear with a special insole to limit the motion of the big toe joint, but you’re asking me for sandal recommendations. I completely understand–just because you have a bum big toe, doesn’t mean you’ve given up on stylish, season-appropriate footwear. Let me recommend sandals with a sturdy forefoot, good support and straps that will cover your bunion (see the last pick for an orthotic-friendly choice).

The Alegria Verona tops the list of our favorite hallux rigidus sandals. Take it from Zappos customer Judith:

“The first time I wore these I stood for 7 hours straight tending bar. I have arthritis in my big toe (hallux rigidus) and these sandals were so comfortable, I felt no pain. They are cute and can be dressed up or worn with casual outfits.”

The Alegria Verona features a supportive cork/latex/memory foam footbed, three adjustable straps and a mild rocker outsole to take pressure off the forefoot through the gait cycle. Find the Verona in euro sizes 35-42 (5-11.5) for $120 from Zappos and Nordstrom. Find a deal on the Alegria Verona at Amazon.

This is a fantastic sandal in every way: moderate arch support, thick platform sole with slight forefoot rocker, excellent cushioning and shock absorption–plus, it’s just plain cute. The Amadour sandal by L’Amour des Pieds (the love of feet), will keep that pesky big toe joint stable while taking care of other foot issues like plantar fasciitis and bunions (soft forefoot strap covers them without irritation). Find the L’Amour des Pieds Amadour in sizes 5.5-11, medium and wide widths for $199 from Nordstrom and Amazon.

Another great recommendation from the Barking Dog Shoes Facebook community! The Taos Trulie comes recommended by Joanna who says this about her favorite hallux rigidus sandals:

I’ve worn them for 4 summers now–they make my feet feel so good, and the arch support is great. Good for walking a lot. Adjustable front strap misses the big toe joint.

Happy Zappos customer AMD also recommends the Taos Trulie for relief from hallux rigidus:

I bought these because I have arthritis in my big toe and finding comfortable sandals is a chore. Knowing I would have to spend more money to manage this issue, I reluctantly purchased my first pair four years ago. I am happy to report that I am in love with these sandals and have been able to wear these as my main summertime shoe without issue. Recently, I purchased other styles of sandals in other brands to replace these as they are now looking well-loved but I found that I had to pull my Trulies back out of my closet to get my arthritis pain to settle down again. I will be buying these until they no longer stock them. I will note that I did have the Velcro replaced at a shoe repair store after my second season because I wasn’t ready to part with them and the rest of the shoe was in wearable condition. It was worth it!

Find the Taos Trulie in euro sizes 36-43 (5.5-12) medium and wide widths (in some sizes) for $160 from Taos Footwear, Amazon and Zappos.

Made from proprietary OOfoam®, Oofos sandals absorb 37% more impact than other foams used in similar footwear. The thick foam outsole has a slight rocker motion to it, taking pressure off the forefoot through the stride. One of our Facebook community members said this about her Oofos:

“I have Hallux Limitus and these flip flops are fantastic. They have the bouncy house feel with a high enough arch that it takes pressure off your toes.”

We’re thrilled to see so many new colors and patterns from camo to animal print to metallics. Find Oofos flip-flops, slides, and clogs in whole sizes 5-11 (or men’s sizes up to 14) for $49.95-69.95 from Oofos, and Zappos. See my personal review here.

If you absolutely must wear a doctor-prescribed orthotic, consider the Revere brand of orthotic-friendly footwear, including sandals! The Emerald style features a removable footbed and added depth to accommodate an orthotic or brace. Three adjustable straps provide a customized fit–and the wide width comes with two strap extenders. Zappos customer says this about her Revere Emerald sandals:

I love that I can use my orthotics with this sandal. I need lots of arch support and, while the arch support may be just fine for some, I needed to add orthotics. The insole is designed to be lifted so that orthotics can be inserted below. Great design! They stay in place and are not visible except for the very back edge which is no problem for me.

Find the Revere Emerald sandal in whole sizes 5-12, medium and wide widths for $159.95 from Revere Shoes (use code BARKINGDOG for 15% off purchase).

The Abeo Riviera Ankle Strap Sandal is a stylish yet supportive choice, featuring built-in orthotic support and a firm yet cushioned footbed. Customers reviews praise its arch support and metatarsal padding. The adjustable ankle strap ensures a secure fit, making it an excellent blend of comfort and function.

Find a pair in sizes 5-11 for $154.95 from The Walking Company and Nordstrom.

Honorable Mention: Birkenstock Arizona (conform to feet, don’t overly flex, adjustable straps), Birkenstock Gizeh (same support as Arizona, no strap over big toe, more feminine).

We’ve reviewed hundreds of comfortable sandals on BarkingDogShoes.com. Hopefully these new selections expand your horizon a bit more!

The post 6 Stylish Sandals for Hallux Rigidus | Reader Request appeared first on Barking Dog Shoes.