Best shoes for standing all day
Reading time: 5 minutes | Last updated: October 10, 2025
Whether you work in healthcare, education, hospitality, or simply can’t sit still – standing a lot is often part of the job. And that means your feet and back take a lot of strain. Aching pain under the foot, tired calves, or lower back pain: all common complaints for those who stand for long periods. Let’s explore what the best shoes for standing all day are.
The pitfall of 'soft' shoes
Many people think that soft shoes are the solution. A soft cushion under your foot sounds comfortable, doesn’t it? Well, not quite. Research on long periods of standing shows that shoes that are too soft fail to provide enough support for your arch. Your foot collapses, the pressure under your foot isn’t well-distributed, and in the end, this leads to pain. Softer shoes can help reduce back pain, however, because they cushion the impact and reduce strain on your back. A combination of a cushioned insole and sufficient support for your feet is therefore the best solution to foot pain.
The best shoes for standing all day: Pressure distribution and cushioning
What really works? A shoe that provides a large contact area under the arch of your foot. This means your foot gets proper support, and the pressure is better distributed. By wearing the right shoes, you don’t have to work as hard to stay balanced, and your feet stay comfortable, even after standing all day. The right shoes not only keep your feet healthy but also give your back and knees more rest.
What should the best shoes for standing all day have?
- A firm, supportive sole that absorbs shocks and relieves strain on your back.
- Good support under the arch for optimal pressure distribution.
- A cushioned insole that supports your arch and combats fatigue.
- A good fit, so your feet have room to move naturally.
- A flexible sole that encourages smooth foot rolling.
- Breathable materials to keep your feet fresh.
Are soft insoles a solution too?
Soft insoles may feel nice, but they don’t always provide enough support. It’s not just about softness; it’s about the right combination of cushioning and firmness in the right places.
Do insoles help with back pain too?
Yes, sometimes. If your back pain is caused by incorrect posture or alignment of your feet, insoles can help with better balance and less strain on your back.
I wear custom insoles. Can these be used in Wolky shoes?
Yes! (Almost) all of our shoes have removable insoles. Simply remove the Wolky insole and replace it with your own custom insole. Easy! Nothing more to do (except, of course, putting your shoes on).
Wolky's best shoes for standing all day: Our recommendations
At Wolky, we design shoes that help your feet get through the day with ease. A good fit and solid support make all the difference. Below, we highlight a few of our top picks if you need to stand for long periods.
Bounce
As the name suggests, our Bounce shoes literally give you a ‘bounce’ in your step. The sole is highly cushioned, and the insole provides just the right support for your arch. Perfect for those long days on your feet.
Snary Jane F2F
This model combines the classic charm of a strap shoe with the comfort of a sneaker. The sole of these beauties is super cushioning, which makes them perfect for standing all day.
Akita WR
This striking sole does not only look good, but it’s got a function as well! The wavy sole of these best shoes for standing all day stabilises the foot and provides extra cushioning. You can feel this with every step!
Shop this beauty: Akita WR
Why
A favorite for quite some time now, and not without reason! These lace up shoes feature a lightweight sole that’s extra cushioning. Perfect for when you’re standing or walking all day. The sole absorbs the shocks, which keeps your feet from feeling tired!
Comfort with the Why
Feltwell
These lace up shoes truly are one of our best for standing all day. The Feltwell has a cushioning sole, a lightweight build, a padded collar, and a roll-off toe for optimal walking comfort.
Center WR
With a memory foam footbed and a flexible sole, these boots are great for standing all day. The Center WR helps your foot roll naturally off the ground. And with the footbed lined with a warm lining, you’ll never have cold feet again!
Do you need online advice about shoe choice?
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