Merrell, Zappos, Hoka, Chaco—when it comes to comfortable footwear, the same brands keep appearing: Merrell, Hoka, New Balance, Brooks. These household names are known for supportive designs perfected over decades, and that expertise—and the technology behind it—does not come cheap. That is why it is smart to always look for markdowns on favorite styles.
Luckily, now is an excellent time to browse a proliferation of footwear sales on the brands that comfort-first people love. Through May 25, tons of your favorite shoes are heavily discounted. We used our deep knowledge of your shopping preferences to curate a list of options worth putting on your feet. If you want to go about your life without blisters or aching arches, there is something for you ahead—and even better, it will not be full price.
1. Merrell Moab Hiking Shoe (25% Off)
Merrell's classic Moab hiking shoe needs no introduction. Travel journalist James Barrett won't hike in any other boot, and over-50 HuffPost reader Ruth Dubinsky Heffes loves the strong bottoms for rock balancing. These ultra-popular, ultra-sturdy shoes are on rare sale now. Get them for men and women at multiple retailers: $104 at REI (regularly $140), $105 at Zappos (regularly $140), and $104+ at Merrell (regularly $140).
2. Hoka Styles (20-45% Off)
Once Hokas go on sale, finding decent inventory is hard. But if you love the brand's bouncy, responsive cushioning, check retailers with marked-down inventory. Zappos has a few colorways of the Clifton 10 and Bondi 9 for women, and the unisex Ora recovery slide starts at just $33 on Hoka's site—a 45% price cut. There is also a plentiful size run of the trail-friendly Challenger 8 sneaker at 20% off.
3. Vionic Flexible Flats
Vionic's arch-hugging, highly supportive designs are great for all-day comfort. These all-purpose flats feature a non-crushing squoval toe and built-in orthotic soles to help treat heel pain. Available in several colors, in soft leather or suede. One reviewer says, "These flats are great! The squared off toe makes them feel like a grown-up ballet flat. The leather is super soft and flexible, almost like wearing a slipper. The arch support is good for a low-profile flat." $95+ at Vionic (regularly $135).
4. K-Swiss Tennis Shoes at Amazon (15% Off)
Reviewer Herb Covey has worn K-Swiss court shoes for over a decade, praising their structural soundness, durability, and support. With a dense-but-flexible outsole and added arch support, they are designed for responsive movement in tennis and pickleball. $100 at Amazon (regularly $115).
5. Merrell Jungle Moc (Up to 34% Off)
Merrell's cult-favorite Jungle Mocs earned a HuffPost Shopping Award for the second year in a row. Known for being durable, comfortable, supportive, and easy to slip on, they are now a gorpcore staple. HuffPost editor Kevin Cortez owned four pairs at once, calling them "probably the most comfortable slip-ons I've ever worn." They feature stretchy panels for easy on/off, and reviewers love them for post-surgery or mobility issues. One person bought them as a replacement for a pair they had for nine years. Women's sizes 5-11, men's 7-13. $73+ at Merrell (regularly $110), $77+ at Amazon, $77+ at Zappos.
6. Naturalizer Flats at Amazon
These flats have built-in arch support and Naturalizer's Contour+ technology, with a cushy sole anatomically sculpted to follow the foot's natural contours. They took the top spot in previous HuffPost coverage for comfortable, stylish flats with good arch support. Reviewer S. Walter says, "I love these shoes. After suffering with plantar fasciitis for years, these are very supportive, durable, fit perfectly, and don't make my feet hurt." $55+ at Amazon (typically $79), $83 at Naturalizer (regularly $99).
7. New Balance 574 Sneakers (Up to 35% Off)
New Balance's classic unisex 574 sneaker combines timeless style with comfort, available in many color combos. Color selection varies by retailer. $65+ at Zappos (regularly $100), $65+ at Amazon (regularly $100), $60+ at Dick's Sporting Goods (regularly $100).
8. Reebok Princess Walking Sneakers (20% Off)
Reebok's Princess trainers are a perennial favorite, padded with foam and a terrycloth liner to absorb moisture, with a rubber outsole for grip. They have over 43,000 reviews from customers buying the same style for almost 40 years. $40 at Amazon (regularly $50).
9. Project Cloud Birkenstock Boston Lookalikes (Up to 20% Off)
While nothing beats the real Birkenstock, Project Cloud's version stands out for great value and out-of-the-box comfort. Available in several colors in women's sizes 5.5-12. $36 at Amazon (typically $45).
10. Clarks Breeze Sea Flip-Flops (20% Off)
These sandals offer classic design and an EVA foam footbed with far more support than average flip-flops. At Zappos, they boast a 5-star rating from over 3,000 reviews. One reviewer with multiple physical disabilities called them a go-to. $48 at Zappos (regularly $60), $46+ at Amazon (regularly $60).
11. K-Swiss Dad Shoes (25% Off)
These self-described dad shoes blend comfort and style with an all-leather upper, classic tennis styling, a sturdy treaded outsole, and lightweight cushioned midsole. $52 at Amazon (regularly $70).
12. Chaco Z/1 Sandals (Up to 25% Off)
These classic outdoor sandals feature rock-solid molded polyurethane soles and adjustable Z-shaped straps that make them one with your foot. Perfect for rocky terrain and water. Wildland Trekking's marketing director recommends them for superior arch support. Women's: $77 at Amazon (regularly $100). Men's: $80 at Chaco (regularly $100).
13. Keen Whisper Lattice Sandals (25% Off)
Professional dog walker Kimberley Reckles recommends these hybrid shoes for great support and secure fit. They use stretchy criss-cross straps and a lightweight foam footbed. Easy to slip on, great in water, and easy to clean. Available in four colorways, women's sizes 5-12. $90 at Amazon (regularly $120), $90 at Keen (regularly $120).
14. Adidas Handball Spezial Sneakers (Up to 50% Off)
Court-style Adidas sneakers have exploded in popularity. The classic Handball Spezial shoe comes in 13 colors on sale for under $90 at Dick's Sporting Goods. Designed for sports with a supportive gum sole providing excellent traction. $55+ at Dick's (regularly $110), $55+ at Foot Locker (regularly $110).
15. Soft Leather Mary Jane Ballet Flats at Amazon
These ballet flats feature a classic adjustable buckle, high-quality soft leather, and subtle rubber soles. Reviewers call them comfy and cute. Available in several colors. Reviewer RacyBby says, "These ballet flats are adorable! So comfortable and perfect for everyday wear." $23+ at Amazon.
16. Danner Mountain 600 Leaf Boots (Up to 55% Off)
HuffPost contributor Jamie Davis Smith called these boots a problem-solving unicorn, and they earned a HuffPost Shopping Award. Originally for hiking, the stylish silhouette, water-resistant construction, and cushy interior suit various weather and environments. Vibram soles with deep treads handle rain, snow, ice, trails, and city streets. Lightweight and waterproof, they can replace rain boots, snow boots, and hiking boots. Women's: $119+ at Amazon (regularly $220). Men's: $100+ at Amazon (regularly $220).
17. Crocs Classic Crafted Clog
Enjoy the breezy versatility of canvas with the easy on-off and waterproof durability of a Crocs clog. Unlike the classic clog, this one has no holes on the shoe itself, so dirt stays out. The strap has a couple holes for Jibbitz. Choose from solid colors and floral patterns, women's sizes 4-15. Some classic Crocs are also 30% off. $45+ at Zappos (regularly $60), $45+ at Crocs (regularly $60).
18. Suede-Like Slippers at Amazon (37% Off)
These moccasin-style slippers are perfect for a Saturday morning walk or a beach campfire. With a faux-suede upper and optional fleece or faux-shearling lining, they offer customizable comfort. $23 at Amazon (regularly $37).
19. Cole Haan Fisherman Sandals
These leather fisherman sandals come in three colors, including cheerful coral, with Cole Haan's signature comfort. The flexible sole is layered with EVA foam and bouncy polyurethane. $100 at Cole Haan (regularly $140).
20. Cole Haan Leather Court Sneaker for Men
This classic court sneaker gets a sumptuous redesign with leather, a supportive cup sole, and cushioned footbed for all-day wear. $120 at Cole Haan (regularly $160).
21. Puma Classic Sneaker (25% Off)
Reviewer Marissa says, "They're one of the most comfortable sneakers I've worn. It feels like walking on air." Note: some say they run small, so consider sizing up. $62 at Amazon (typically $80).
