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Shoes that are as comfy as trainers but are not trainers

72 replies

DervlaGlass · 17/09/2025 22:54

Can anyone recommend a good make of comfy shoe that still looks nice? I've tried marks ballet flats after years in New Balance and my heels are shredded:(

Flip-flop ballets look nice but very expensive so I don't want to risk buying them if they rub

OP posts:
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mathanxiety · 22/09/2025 01:40

Agree with the Allbirds recommendation.

I have three pairs, one mesh and two wool. They are fantastic. I even wear the wool in summer.

mathanxiety · 22/09/2025 01:43

Also agree with the Josef Seibel and Ecco recommendations.

Marmaladeisntheonlypreserve · 22/09/2025 03:05

https://www.hotter.com/sparrow-shoes-navy-rich-tan-2533

NormaSars · 22/09/2025 10:16

I've complimented someone on those funny-dreams, @Followthebouncingthumb . She said they were very comfortable and about 8 years old.

@soupyspoon , cushioning is not the same as support.
I have a pair of shoes that are cushioned but lack decent arch support, and they get uncomfortable after a while. i'm going to try inserts, but I'm not too hopeful.

Bruisername · 22/09/2025 15:10

As with pp - do the vivaia size ‘true to size’?

Deata · 22/09/2025 20:32

Bruisername · 22/09/2025 15:10

As with pp - do the vivaia size ‘true to size’?

I bought a pair but returned… I’m trying to remember if that was because they were on the tight size. I think maybe they were. Hope someone else comments on this. Also bought a pointy pair from them that I know I returned since they looked horribly witchy in real life.

I’d experiment further with this brand, since I have Morton’s neuroma, but the postage returns fees put me off. Wish somewhere near me actually sold them — I don’t have much luck with online shoe shopping!

Itssomethingelse · 23/09/2025 00:22

Marmaladeisntheonlypreserve · 22/09/2025 03:05

I'm tempted by these.

RitaIncognita · 23/09/2025 00:51

LightsDifficulty · 19/09/2025 21:34

I wear Ecco. They have great shoes that look like smart work shoes but are as comfy as trainers. I haven't worn anything else since I was 14 and it's been great. No decisions to make.

Another vote for Ecco.

NormaSars · 23/09/2025 09:56

@Itssomethingelse , get them, they're pretty.
Hotter do some nice shoes but you need to look for them.

I like these slippers Oatmeal | Lovely Slippers | Hotter UK

angelspike2025 · 23/09/2025 10:01

ReadingTime · 21/09/2025 22:33

I really like those!

Ughtrxingtogetbetter · 23/09/2025 11:00

Following. Need some with good support

icouldholditwithacobweb · 23/09/2025 12:08

Getting some great ideas here.

Boohoo76 · 23/09/2025 22:03

Vionic ballet flats are great for anyone with plantar faciitis as they have arch support innersoles.

mamagogo1 · 23/09/2025 22:07

I have some very comfortable M&S loafers, they have really thick insoles you can feel if you press on them. Or buy a size up and put in in soles

Chinsupmeloves · 23/09/2025 22:11

Pavers.

shivbo2014 · 24/09/2025 18:03

I have very similar ones to these from Ravel and they are the comfiest shoes ive ever owned even wearing them barefoot.

Buy Ravel ladies' Walsh brogues in black online at www.ravel.co.uk https://share.google/w8mSFgyztDvTsgCz8

Black Leather Walsh Brogues | Ravel

Ravel ladies’ Walsh brogues Black upper Lace-up Cleated sole Heel height: 3.5cm

https://www.ravel.co.uk/ravel-shoes-c2/flats-c13/black-leather-walsh-brogues-ravel-p2006?srsltid=AfmBOop7DDG7j5i3patJ1UpAEgBF8osId_AvJjtoEW2JPllHQrK_vABY

swimsong · 26/09/2025 08:45

A shop near me sells these:

HEYDUDE Shoes, Loafers and Sneakers - Free Delivery | HEYDUDE UK share.google/ZUqqrSxNM2WtdIuwy

Yamamm · 26/09/2025 08:51

If it’s for skirts and black tights then I’d be looking at lightweight leather loafers. I have some from Rieker that are great plus some ancient Russell and Bromley ones that are worth the money.

Ginmonkeyagain · 26/09/2025 10:02

Not a cheap option, but these guys make the most beautiful and comfortable flat shoes - I have Sanni and Praise and they are lovely.

www.anoncph.co.uk/collections/flats

NormaSars · 26/09/2025 11:13

Read the Trustpilot reviews for Heydude before you order.

SB2527 · 26/09/2025 19:20

Om83 · 18/09/2025 18:12

I bought some Vivaia flats, they are ridiculously comfy. Lots of people often seem to sell new but much cheaper in Vinted so worth checking on there once you found a style you like. I have the ‘Veronica’
https://www.vivaia.com/category/collection-c_394.html?utm_source=google&utm_medium=cpc&utm_campaign=17916426363&utm_content=vivaia%20shoes&gad_source=1&gad_campaignid=17916426363&gbraid=0AAAAACQSLpN5-oSOuUJvGFzoHCwzB7pg3

I've been eyeing these up but unsure on sizing. I've always thought I was uk 8, but these days can be 41/42 and even 8.5
No idea what size I should go for??

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