Here at Shop TODAY, we like to think we know a thing or two about sneakers. Our editors have run their fair share of races (ranging from marathons and 5Ks alike), have trekked to and from the office on our daily commutes and logged miles and miles walking around New York City, theme parks and more.
It doesn't come without a cost, however. We've all paid the price in terms of blisters, uncomfortable soles and unreliable sneakers. Which is why we set out to find the best of the best — no matter if you're taking the dog out or training for your next half marathon.
So, we’re here to introduce our first-ever Shop TODAY Sneaker Awards! Like all of our Shop TODAY Awards, our editors put these shoes to the test to find our lists of the best sneakers we stand behind. From running sneakers to affordable pairs that are easy to slip on and off, the shoes below are sure to provide comfort and support with each step.
To walk us through some of our winners, TODAY fitness contributor Stephanie Mansour stopped by the 3rd hour of TODAY. Below, shop editor favorites, expert-approved picks and more.
Shop TODAY 2025 Sneaker Award winners seen on TODAY
New Balance Women's 574 Core
Award: Best overall walking sneaker | Sizes: 5-12, including standard and wide width options | Colors: 5 | Features: Mesh upper, EVA midsole
These New Balance sneakers require little to no breaking in, according to associate editor Shannon Garlin. Which makes them the ideal shoe for wearing to theme parks, walking the dog or hitting your daily step count.
New Balance notes that this particular style of shoe runs small, so sizing up is recommended.
New Balance Men's 574 Core
Award: Best overall walking sneaker | Sizes: 4-18, including standard, wide and extra wide width options | Colors: 6 | Features: ENCAP midsole cushioning, mesh upper
Similarly, reviewers rank this sneaker high in terms of quality and comfort thanks to the amount of support offered in the heel. The men's version is offered in a larger range of sizes and widths compared to the women's version, yet the brand still recommends sizing up for a comfortable fit.
Brooks Women's Ghost 16 Sneaker
Award: Best overall running sneaker | Sizes: 5-13, including narrow, medium, wide and extra wide width options | Colors: 14 | Features: Earned the American Podiatric Medical Association Seal of Acceptance, designed for road running specifically
These are my personal favorite running sneakers. I've run two half marathons and a handful of 10Ks in them, raving about them to whomever would listen along the way. And I'm not alone — podiatrists and senior social media editor Kate McCarthy agree.
They offer just the right amount of support, providing comfortability with each step. I've since transitioned to a new pair, yet still reach for these when going on casual walks, which is a testament to their longevity.
Brooks Men's Ghost 16 Sneaker
Award: Best overall running sneaker | Sizes: 7-15, including narrow, medium, wide and extra wide width options | Colors: 14 | Features: Lightweight, breathable, also earned the American Podiatric Medical Association Seal of Acceptance
With a variety of widths offered, you won't have to compromise space or a small toe box in order to have a good run. They're outfitted with a "soft cushioning" according to the brand, that helps to make each step secure and comfortable.
Slow Man Women's Walking Shoes
Award: Best budget-friendly sneaker | Sizes: 5.5-11 | Colors: 23 | Features: Made out of a mesh fabric, non-slip, wear-resistant according to the brand
Easily step into a good stride with these slip-on sneakers. A sock-like upper helps these shoes to be breathable, alongside the mesh fabric they're crafted out of. Shop TODAY writer Katie Jackson admits that while these walking shoes have a bit of height, it "isn’t high enough to feel like I’m going to twist my ankle."
Adidas Women's Supernova 2 Running Shoe
Award: Best entry-level running sneaker | Sizes: 5.5-12 | Colors: 52 | Features: Mesh upper, made from recycled materials, a rubber outsole for traction
Recommended by a board-certified podiatrist, these sneakers are great for those looking to start their running journey, due to the brand-specific "Bounce" cushioning. This cushioning lives up to its name, providing a "springy feel" with each step.
Adidas Men's Supernova 2 Running Shoe
Award: Best entry-level running sneaker | Sizes: 4-18 | Colors: 30 | Features: Machine washable, made out of synthetic fabrics, have a lower carbon footprint compared to previous versions
The men's version of these sneakers offer the same amount of support and cushion, with reviewers complimenting their stability and traction.
Editor’s note: The Adidas Supernova 2s are Shop TODAY Sneaker Award winners, but are now no longer widely available. Seen on air were the Adidas Supernova Rise 2, a newer model of the shoe.
Vivaia Unisex Sneaker Sliders
Award: Best slip-on | Sizes: 5-11.5 in women's, 3.5-10 in men's | Colors: 24 | Features: Unisex style, available in mesh or wool fabrics
You'll never have to worry about tying and retying the laces on these shoes, according to commerce writer Danielle Murphy. Plus, not only are they "insanely comfortable," but lightweight as well.
She calls these her "most worn pair" of sneakers, having owned them for about a year. While she owns the white colorway and they dirty easily, they're machine-washable, helping them to look like new after a single load.
Rothy's The Original Slip On Sneaker
Award: Best for work | Sizes: 5-13 | Colors: 9 | Features: Machine washable, made from recycled bottles, "plush" footbed
Outfitted with cushioned insoles, these slip-on sneakers will take you from your daily commute to your cubicle without missing a beat. The outsoles are made out of recycled plastic, built to withstand anything you could encounter — from sidewalks to subway platforms.
Shop TODAY 2025 Sneaker Award walking shoe winners
Nortiv 8 ActiveFloat Men's Running Shoe
Award: Best men's budget-friendly sneaker | Sizes: 7.5-13 | Colors: 7 | Features: EVA rubber sole, not waterproof or resistant, slip-resistant rubber outsole according to the brand
"In the last month or so, I have also used them to play pickleball, which I play regularly, because they are so comfortable and my feet hurt a lot less after playing than dedicated pickleball sneakers," says a member of our Shop TODAY Dad squad, Abe Witonsky. Witonsky is the father of associate partnerships editor, Lauren Witonsky.
Witonsky mentions there's little wear and tear on them after five months of consistent use, and is going to repurchase them again once he's ready to retire his current pair.
Skechers Go Walk Arch Fit 2.0
Award: Best orthopedic sneaker | Sizes: 5.5-11 | Colors: 2 | Features: Earned theAmerican Podiatric Medical Association Seal of Acceptance, removable insole, made out of vegan materials
This orthopedic sneaker boasts a handful of benefits, including a removable insole, stretchable fit for slipping and sliding them on with ease and they're outfitted with the brands Ultra Go cushioning, helping them to be "responsive" and comfortable.
Orthofeet Verve Tie-Less Sneakers
Award: Most customizable | Sizes: 5-12, including medium, wide and extra-wide widths available | Colors: 1 | Features: “Tie-less,” hook and loop velcro closure, padded fabric insides, wide toe box, removable insole
According to Cunha, a wide toe box and cushioned insoles are among the key features to look for when shopping for a quality sneaker.
This orthopedic pair includes both of these aspects, and was also recommended by a podiatrist who complimented its customizable fit.
Oofos Women’s Oomg Eezee Low Shoe
Award: Best for plantar fasciitis | Sizes: 5-12 | Colors: 3 | Features: Runs small, brand recommends sizing up a half size, machine washable, brand-specific Oofoam technology in cushioning
"The shoes have arch support and a cushioned footbed that help your feet relax after a strenuous activity," says commerce writer, Jannely Espinal. "Because of its cushioned technology, these are great for standing long hours, walking long distances and as a recovery footwear after working out."
Allbirds Women’s Tree Dashers Relay
Award: Best for narrow feet | Sizes: 5-11 | Colors: 14 | Features: Stretchy upper makes them easy to slip on, cushioned midsole
Dr. Michael Cunha, a board-certified foot surgeon and founder of Gotham Footcare based in Manhattan, says these are "one of the most comfortable shoes on the market."
This model includes a "flexible, cushioned" midsole and is made out of stretchy knit, helping them have a "sock-like fit," according to the brand.
Vionic Walk Max Lace Up Sneaker
Award: Best splurge sneaker | Sizes: 5-13, with medium and wide sizes available | Colors: 10 | Features: Water repellant, lightweight midsole
This sneaker ranks high when it comes to orthopedic options, plus they come podiatrist-recommended, thanks to the amount of plush cushioning in the midsole, lightweight construction and water repellant outer, according to the brand.
Vuori Performance Joggers
We found the perfect joggers for lounging or working out.
$94.00
REI
$94.00
Vuori
Fit Simplify Resistance Loop Exercise Bands
Up the ante of any workout with these resistance bands.
$9.98
Amazon
Sunny Health & Fitness Magnetic Rowing Machine
Get a full body workout in at home with this machine.
$229.99
Amazon
CRZ Yoga Butterluxe High-Waisted Lounge Legging
These high-rise leggings are also squat proof, says the brand.
$27.20
$32.00
Amazon
OOFOS OOahh Recovery Slide
We love these slides for recovery after a workout.
$59.95
Amazon
$59.95
Zappos
$59.95
Oofos
Hoka Clifton 9
Hokas are a fan-favorite shoe for walking and running.
$115.99
$145.00
Hoka
$116.93
$145.00
REI
Shop TODAY 2025 Sneaker Award running shoe winners
Lululemon Beyondfeel Running
Award: Best for mid-level runners | Sizes: 5.5-12 | Colors: 5 | Features: Mesh upper provides ventilation and promotes breathability, outsole made of high-abrasion rubber for increased traction
“This is my everyday sneaker, for running both miles and running errands,” says Ricevuto. “It’s supportive and slightly firmer than my other running shoes. Also, the brand says that the shoe has an extra 2mm of foam in the forefoot to support the way a woman’s foot naturally lands, so I like the thoughtful innovation there.”
Puma Velocity NITRO™ 3
Award: Best for narrow feet | Sizes: 5.5-11 | Colors: 3 | Features: Nitrogen-infused foam, rubber outsoles for traction
“I have tried over 100 running shoes at this point in my life, so I’m pretty picky about what I like and don’t like,” says commerce producer and editor, Julie Ricevuto. “This shoe is one of my favorites for its lightweight feel and thicker cushioning. It feels good on my feet during all kinds of runs — from sprints to longer runs — making it super versatile for any level runner, which I really appreciate.”
Hoka Bondi 8
Award: Best for short distances | Sizes: 5-12, with regular and wide sizes available | Colors: 11 | Features: Platform sole provides stability and balance, mesh upper provides ventilation and breathability
Editor’s note: The Hoka Bondi 8 are now no longer widely available. A newer model of the she, TK, is available.
Good for both walking and running, these Hoka sneakers' cushion are their most complimented feature. It has a "generous" amount of foam that works to keep feet supported and comfortable no matter how many miles you're going.
Furthermore, they're recommended by a podiatrist, who calls this sneaker "one of the hardest working sneakers in the HOKA lineup."
Asics Women’s Gel-Nimbus 26
Award: Best for flat feet | Sizes: 5-13, including wide sizes available | Colors: 26 | Features: PureGEL padding in heels for a “softer landing,” platform outsole adds height
Social video producer Anita Chomenko called these her “primary sneaker,” having bought them multiple times for training periods, races, walking and other workouts.
She appreciates the “thick layer of cushioning” they’re designed with, helping to soften the blow when landing — and Brittany Watts, Tone House Head Coach and fitness expert agrees. “Sole thickness, as a thicker sole can provide better shock absorption and durability, but it should be balanced with stability,” she explains.
Asics Men’s Gel-Nimbus 26
Award: Best for flat feet | Sizes: 6-16, including wide and extra-wide widths available | Colors: 24 | Features: PureGEL padding in heels for a “softer landing”, platform outsole adds height
Similarly, the men’s version of this sneaker works to provide cushion and comfort, promising a more breathable, lightweight shoe for your everyday runs and walks.
Under Armour Infinite Elite
Award: Best for marathoners | Sizes: 5-12 | Colors: 8 | Features: Soft, brand-specific, "IntelliKnit" upper, UA HOVR+ cushioning
This sneaker has an increased amount of cushion to the other ones tested by associate editor, Kamari Stewart, which lends them to have an inevitable adjustment period, she says.
However, Stewart (who's running the 2025 New York City Marathon!), says "they provide a great amount of support without feeling like you’re walking on hills all day. The support and cushioning is comfortable."
**Need to update to new model**
New Balance Fresh Foam X 1080v14
Award: Best for arch support | Sizes: 5-13, including narrow, standard, wide and extra-wide sizes available | Colors: 9 | Features: Truly breathable and lightweight, according to testers
"The shoes are super comfortable, thanks to the large amount of cushioning which you can really feel with every step," says commerce writer, Emma Stessman. "I have post-traumatic arthritis in one of my feet, and my physical therapist recently told me that the shoes are a great choice for that, because of the amount of cushioning and I have found that I have less pain when wearing them, as compared to some other sneakers."
*need to update*
Altra Paradigm 7
Award: Best for wide feet | Sizes: 5.5-12, including regular and wide sizes available | Colors: 9 | Features: Wide toe box, ghillie lacing, brand-specific Altra EGO MAX midsole
Multiple editors (and their moms!) have fallen in love with this style of Altra sneakers, for their "solid longevity," "roomy" feel and sneakers that can also tackle the trails.
The price point is a bit higher compared to others, yet McCarthy says it "makes sense for what you're getting."
Related
Shop TODAY 2025 Sneaker Award lifestyle shoe winners
Kizik Women’s Milan Sneaker
Award: Best accessibility features | Sizes: 6-13 | Colors: 5 | Features: Hands-free, truly slip-on, washable and removable insoles
“I love the fit, feel and color options,” says Murphy. “If you want a stylish shoe that also feels good, this is worth the price.”
Murphy also raves about how “durable” these sneakers are, adding that they have a “reliable design.” Kizik notes that their shoes run a bit small, so they recommend sizing up for a more comfortable fit.
Adidas Sambas
Award: Most commuter-friendly | Sizes: 4-19 in men's sizes, 5-20 in women's sizes | Colors: 34 | Features: Leather upper, "gum" rubber midsole
These trendy sneakers will soon become a regular in your sneaker rotation, if you're anything like production coordinator Camryn Privette, who also notes that despite wearing them multiple times a week on New York City streets, these sneakers have stood the test of time.
"Living in NYC, I’m on my feet more than the average person and I’ve gone full days of running errands while wearing these," she says. "They aren’t meant to be walking shoes since they don’t offer the same support as others but they get the job done."
Saucony Shadow 5000
Award: Best for standing all day | Sizes: 3.5-14 in men's sizing,5-15.5 in women's sizing | Colors: 11 | Features: Shock absorbing midsole, suede and mesh upper, rubber outsole
"These shoes are very comfortable," says commerce photo editor, Kara Birnbaum, who's thinking about purchasing a second pair! "I have a bad back and am often on my feet all day for shoots and these shoes keep me feeling the best out of any other pair I’ve worn! They are also cute, so fashionable and functional."
Nike V2K Run
Award: Best all-purpose shoe | Sizes: 3.5-15 in men's sizes, 5-16.5 in women's sizes | Colors: 15 | Features: Mesh upper provides an "airy" feel, foam midsole, rubber outsole to promote grip and traction
"They feel like gel on my feet, which I love," says editorial operations manager, Jill Ortiz. "I can feel the cushion but it isn’t overbearing. They’re more cushy than they are supportive, so if you’re looking for arch support, I can’t promise they will provide that. They can sometimes feel tight where the tongue is, but if you shift it around a little, you can rid yourself of the feeling."
Ortiz employs the use of these shoes in her daily life, yet has started to wear them on runs, further noting that "they have a pretty good lifeline."
Shop TODAY 2025 Sneaker Award outdoor shoe winners
Skechers Viper Court Pro Pickleball
Award: Best for pickleball | Sizes: 8-13 | Colors: 4 | Features: Removable insole, brand-specific Ultra Flight cushioning, mesh upper for added breathability
Witonsky is an avid pickleballer, playing in these shoes four to five times a week. "They are a really light shoe and have a loose fit, both are important qualities for maneuverability," he says. "You can wear short socks with them, because the part of the shoe that goes around the ankle is extremely soft. They have a cushiony insole. And there is an “arch-fit,” which makes them feel like comfortable running shoes."
Merrell Moab 3
Award: Best for hiking | Sizes: 5-12, including wide sizes available | Colors: 5 | Features: Rugged outsole, brand-specific Vibram rubber outsole, mesh interior lining for ventilation and breathability
Merrell promises an even more stable hiking shoe with this sneaker, that has a "gripper" rubber outsole for providing traction on the trails, as well as a removable insole that provides a "medium" amount of support when inside the shoe.
New Balance Women's Coco CG2 Sneaker
Award: Best for tennis | Sizes: 6-11, including medium, wide and extra-wide widths available | Colors: 4 | Features: Rounded toe shape, rubber outsole, cotton interior lining
"These have been my go-to tennis shoes since this summer," Privette. "They’re great for hard courts and offer good stability on slides and what not."
She also notes that they're tight-fitting, so would recommend sizing up an entire size for a more comfortable fit.
How we chose
We sorted through editor recommendations, sneakers featured in previous articles, new launches, innovative finds and more to curate a list of sneakers to test. From there, we came up with 26 winners across four different categories.
We relied on editors’ previous experiences with their tried-and-true sneakers that they’ve been wearing for years, logging thousands of steps at theme parks, marathons, commuting or even just walking around their neighborhood. We also looked to experts to back up their claims of what makes a comfortable running sneaker, a supportive walking shoe or a stylish kick to add to your wardrobe.
Meet the experts
- Stephanie Mansour is TODAY's fitness contributor, a certified personal trainer and a yoga and Pilates instructor. She also leads workout routines and challenges in the new Start TODAY app.
- Lindsey Claytonis a chief instructor at Barry's Bootcamp, fitness expert and NYC-based run coach.
- Dr. Miguel Cunha is a board-certified foot surgeon and founder of Gotham Footcare, based in Manhattan.
- Dr. Andy Fata-Chan is a New York-based physical therapist and fitness coach at Moment Physical Therapy and Performance.
- Brittany Watts is a head coach at Tone House and a fitness expert.
Has your product been featured?
Shop TODAY is editorially independent and our team of editors and writers work hard to pick the best products to share with our readers and viewers. We may license our logo to brands or products that have been featured on Shop TODAY. Click here if you’re interested in licensing your inclusion in Shop TODAY content or to learn more from our licensing partner, Wrights Media.
- Our top picks
- Shop TODAY 2025 Sneaker Award winners seen on TODAY
- Shop TODAY 2025 Sneaker Award walking shoe winners
- Shop TODAY 2025 Sneaker Award running shoe winners
- Shop TODAY 2025 Sneaker Award lifestyle shoe winners
- Shop TODAY 2025 Sneaker Award outdoor shoe winners
- How we chose
- Meet the experts
- Has your product been featured?
