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Stylish AND blister proof – who knew?

We’ve all been there, nursing achy arches and sore blisters after a long day, wishing we had worn more comfortable shoes. Whether you are on your feet at work or struggling in heels at a wedding, no pair is worth hobbling around for a few days after wear – no matter how pretty they look.

At best, uncomfortable shoes are a minor irritation but, at worst, they can cause long-term issues from plantar fasciitis to bunions and back pain. And if you are someone who works in healthcare or hospitality, or simply enjoy getting those 10,000 steps in, you’ll know how detrimental these problems can be to your general wellbeing.

But comfort does not mean you need to compromise on style. This is particularly important for all-day weddings and sightseeing holidays, when you want to feel and look your best. Opt for some ergonomic sandals or, if you are looking for a little boost, keep an eye out for block heels and wedges that are easy on the ankles. When you want to feel smart for work, consider polished loafers and chic brogues with padded soles that look as good as they feel.

Luckily, there’s a whole range of comfortable shoes that are suitable for spending hours on your feet; from practical sandals to special-occasion heels (yes really). Lace-ups may seem the obvious choice for ultimate comfort, but some slip-on styles are kind on sore feet too. So, without further ado, read on for the best comfortable shoes for 2022.

Known for accommodating wider feet, Hotter is extensively recommended by podiatrists and chiropodists alike. Our top pick from the brand is these Summer Leather Lace Ups in the creamy beige shade. We love the perforated upper – breathable for the warmer months – and the brand’s signature comfy footbed. This style comes in standard, wide and extra-wide – great if you need a little extra room.

With a trademark perforated rubber sole, Geox's shoes are famed for being truly breathable. While the company’s trainers deserve a notable mention, it’s the formal sandals that caught our eye. The leather appliqué flowers bring instant femininity, while the mid-height block heel delivers lift and comfort in one.

Ballet flats aren’t particularly known for being a comfortable all-day shoe, due to the lack of arch support, but these Tree Breezers from Allbirds are here to change your preconceptions. The brand’s signature foam footbed is kind on your feet and, coupled with the breathable (and sustainable) eucalyptus upper, makes for a very comfortable all-day proposition. Our favourite part? The structured top line that ensures no slippage on your heel. With eight shades to choose from (and half sizes to boot) there's bound to be something to complete that new-season outfit.

There are few things more nightmarish than tripping up the aisle in a pair of badly fitting shoes. But don’t fret, these satin court shoes from Paradox London are the comfortable bridal option of your dreams. The jewel-embellished T-bar and vintage-style heel combine to deliver glamour as well as surprisingly good support.

A comfortable slip-on loafer will see you from work to the weekend with ease. Hotter’s pair, with a padded insole for cushioning and cleated rubber sole for grip, is ideal. We like them in wear-with-anything black, but the tan colour will work will look chic with a Breton-striped tee and a pair of blue jeans.

Boden is always a go-to here at Prima, especially for occasion wear. We love these pastel-pink suede shoes for their elegant pointed toe and super-wearable 2” kitten heel. The wraparound ankle strap will keep your feet steady – so no Bambi-on-ice moments.

Just because you aren’t wearing heels, doesn’t mean you can’t feel dressy. Kurt Geiger’s crystal-encrusted leather sling-backs are the perfect option for those who prefer to keep their feet on solid ground.

Ballet flats are back, and are the perfect shoe to see you through the summer wedding season. The bouncy sole and elasticated top line will hug and support your foot and, in metallic silver, this pair is perfect for dancing the night away. They are also foldable – ideal for slinging in your bag if you need respite from your stilettos.

If you aren’t confident in stilettos, opt for a kitten heel instead. These suede sling-backs are designed for plantar fasciitis sufferers and boast great arch support as well as three layers of underfoot cushioning for comfort.

When tackling a hike, or pounding the pavement, comfort is key. ON shoes are known for their unparalleled cloud-like feel and contemporary designs. The brand’s Cloudrock Waterproof hiking shoes have perfectly balanced support and grip – note the high collar and rubber cleated soles – without being too heavy for all-day wear.

Brogues are a classic style that you just need in your footwear arsenal. Marks and Spencer’s patent iteration is super comfy and will instantly make a more casual outfit feel smart enough for the office. They are great value too, ringing in at under £30.

A solid favourite of nurses and healthcare practitioners, Allbird trainers are known for their cushiony (and odour-eliminating) foam soles. These trainers are made from a super-soft, water-repellent merino wool and are completely carbon neutral. There are sixteen colours to choose from – brights and neutrals – so something to suit every personal taste.

Sole Bliss is a brand that is specifically designed with sore feet in mind. Each shoe is constructed with careful consideration of how bunions and other foot problems may affect the size and width of your feet. The brand is a solid favourite of the Duchess of Cornwall, and she is often spotted wearing her trusty nude Carmen heels – we also love the pale grey option, which looks so chic against a bold floral print.

Jones Bootmaker is well-regarded for its high-quality and timeless designs. A go-with-everything option, these court shoes are crafted from luxe suede with a comfortable low block heel. For the perfect mother of the bride shoe, opt for the dusty blue. But for something more for everyday office attire, you can’t go wrong with the navy and black colourways.

A favourite of Kate Middleton’s, LK Bennett’s classic suede court shoes are a timeless investment for your wardrobe. Kate’s exact pair are a little on the tall side, so we’ve opted for these super wearable 2” version instead.

An oldie but a goodie, Birkenstock’s sandals have a simple two-strap design with the brand’s signature moulded footbed that perfectly cups and supports your feet as you walk. The more you wear them, the more your individual footprint imprints on the sole for personalised comfort. If you’ve got room for one pair of sandals in your wardrobe, let it be these.