Which sneakers are good for your feet?

Nando de Voer

The complete guide to comfort, support, and style. Sneakers are no longer just a fashion item. More and more people are looking for sneakers that offer more than just a good look: they must also be comfortable, provide sufficient cushioning, and be good for your feet – especially if you wear them daily. But what actually makes a sneaker ‘good for your feet’? And which models really stand out in 2025 in terms of support, cushioning, and fit?

What makes a sneaker good for your feet?

A good sneaker combines three crucial qualities: comfort, support, and fit. This means that the sole must cushion, the midfoot must get sufficient support, and the shoe must adapt to your foot shape without pressure points or irritation.

Especially if you walk long days, stand a lot, or suffer from painful feet, cushioning is essential. Sneakers with a good cushioning midsole, for example made of foam, gel, or air cushions, help absorb shocks. This reduces pressure on your joints, preventing complaints in the long term.

In addition, it is important that the sneaker offers sufficient width and toe space, especially for people with wider feet. Models with a removable insole are also recommended because you can then use your own orthotic insoles.

The best sneakers for your feet in 2025

New Balance 2002R Protection Pack
This model is popular because of the robust sole with superior cushioning, combined with a flexible upper that adapts to your foot. Perfect for people who have long days or wide feet. Moreover, they are stylish enough for daily use.

ASICS GEL-Kayano 14
An icon in the stability category. This sneaker offers exceptional support at the heel and midfoot, and the GEL technology provides cushioning without stiffness. Especially suitable if you quickly suffer from tired or fallen arches.

Nike Zoom Vomero 5
This model is often underestimated but is one of the best-cushioned sneakers in the Nike collection. The Zoom Air unit works in combination with a foam sole that softens every step. Ideal for people who suffer from heel spurs or tired soles.

New Balance 740v2
This sneaker is known for its firm support, wider fit options, and orthopedic comfort. The combination of EVA foam and an ENCAP midsole provides stability and comfort, something you rarely see together.

Hoka Clifton 9
Although the appearance is somewhat sportier, this sneaker offers an unprecedented amount of cushioning and lightweight comfort. The rocker shape promotes a natural foot roll, which is ideal for people with forefoot complaints.

Brands known for foot-friendliness

Not every sneaker brand takes foot health into account, but there are brands that excel in this area. New Balance is a strong example, especially with the 990 and 2002R series known for their combination of stability, cushioning, and a wider fit. ASICS also scores high when it comes to biomechanically responsible designs, with standouts like the GEL-Kayano and GEL-NYC, both designed with support and long-term comfort in mind. Hoka One One focuses mainly on extremely lightweight sneakers with maximum cushioning, making them ideal for those who have long days. For Nike, not every model is foot-friendly, but sneakers like the Vomero 5 and Pegasus 41 show that the brand also has models that excel in support. Finally, there is Xsensibile: perhaps less trendy, but very suitable for those looking for medically responsible sneakers with a lot of comfort.

Is it good to wear sneakers daily?

Yes, provided you choose the right model. Sneakers with sufficient cushioning, stability, and the right fit can actually help prevent injuries and reduce muscle fatigue. Models with poor support or too narrow a fit can, on the other hand, lead to complaints such as heel spurs, fallen arches, or knee problems.

Therefore, pay close attention to your walking pattern, foot type, and daily activities. Also, regularly alternate between sneakers to prevent wear and give your feet different stimuli.

Which sneakers are less suitable?

Sneakers that are less suitable for daily use or sensitive feet are often recognizable by a flat sole without cushioning, such as models from Converse or Vans. Shoes that are too narrow for your foot type can also cause complaints over time, especially if there is no heel support or stabilizing elements. In addition, sneakers without a removable insole are a limitation for those who wear orthotics. All these factors mean that certain sneakers are better avoided if comfort and support are important to you. Even for casual use, it is wise to choose models that do combine these elements so that your feet remain healthy in the long term.

Final thoughts from Snrkickz

At Snrkickz, we believe that a good sneaker starts with the right combination of style and comfort. Sneakers that are good for your feet don’t have to look like orthopedic shoes. In fact, models like the New Balance 2002R or the ASICS Kayano 14 show that design and health can go perfectly together. Do you wear sneakers daily? Then investing in a few high-quality models is not a luxury but a smart choice for the long term.