Shoes·8 min read

The Cutest Shoes That Can Still Handle Wear and Tear

The Cutest Shoes That Can Still Handle Wear and Tear
Images: Olukai, Walmart
August 12, 2026

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Picking out the perfect outfit can be a challenge under the best of circumstances. So when the weather doesn’t cooperate or you're about to commute on foot, you can feel...extremely frustrated. That's why we put together this list of shoes that are comfortable, supportive, and can stand up to less-than-ideal conditions — all without ruining your outfit.

Birkenstock Madrid EVA Big Buckle Sandals from Free People

Birkenstock

Madrid EVA Big Buckle Sandals

Water-friendly slides that are chic enough to wear out…

If you’re looking for slip-on sandals that feel light as air but can hold up against torrential downpours, these Big Buckle sandals from Birkenstock are our pick. Like most Birks, they’re contoured to fit your foot just right — but these are made of EVA, so they’re actually waterproof. The eight tones are muted and versatile, so you can really wear these anywhere. 

Reebok Club C 85 Vintage Sneaker

Reebok

Club C 85 Vintage Sneakers

All-white sneaks with old-school flair…

These Reebok Club C 85 Vintage sneakers simply won’t stop popping up all over our social feeds. We love that they’re unisex, insanely comfortable, and add a hint of nostalgia to any daytime look.

Dream Pairs Closed Toe Sandals

DREAM PAIRS

Closed Toe Sandals

Closed-toe sandals with built-in arch support…

Two editors tried out DREAM PAIRS for the first time and loved their shoes’ thick soles, thoughtful designs, and wallet-friendly price points. These closed-toed flats are a great option for when you want to wear sandals but don’t want to expose the toes. 

Adidas Barreda Mary Jane Sneaker at DSW

Adidas

Barreda Mary Jane Sneaker

Mary Jane flats with major sneaker energy…

If you’re going for the ballerina look but navigating arduous terrain (or just walking a lot), these Adidas Mary Janes will be your new best friends. They have the comfort of Adidas sneakers (thank you, Cloudfoam Comfort footbed) and the classic design of a ballet flat. It’s one of our favorite day-to-night options.

Olukai Mi'i Mules

OluKai

Mi'i Mules

Woven mules if you’re over basic flats…

These Mi’i mules from OluKai are inspired by traditional Polynesian lauhala weaving techniques and the feeling of bare feet on wet sand. They’re super supportive and pair well with shorts, jeans, and dresses alike, making them the perfect shoe to pack while traveling. 

Yolanda Zula Knee High Boots from Walmart

Yolanda Zula

Knee-High Boots

Tall black boots you can wear year-round…

These simple, yet sophisticated knee-highs have a thick sole that will give you the height of a 2-inch heel without discomfort or knee pain. They’re the LBD of footwear, especially on rainy days. Wear them with a lace skirt or slip dress for date night, or over jeans for a more casual look.  

Sperrys Authentic Original™ 2 Eye Boat Shoe

Sperry

Authentic Original™ 2 Eye Boat Shoe

Classic Sperrys that never go out of style…

We heard 2026 is the new 2016, and that means breaking out our tried-and-true Sperrys. They’re always a classic, but they come in some new prints and colorways (like cottagecore florals and leopard print) that make them feel fresh again. They're also functional, thanks to a leather exterior and tractioned outsoles.

New Balance 9060 Sneakers from Free People

New Balance

9060 Sneakers

A cuter version of our favorite “Dad shoe”...

No one knows practical, durable footwear like the dads in our lives. These New Balances would make him proud, but these colorways (like lavender and butter yellow, or muted tan and blue) feel current. They’ll last for years and pair with more items in your closet than you think.

Brooks Hyperion Max 4

Brooks

Hyperion Max 4

A cloud-like running shoe that’s sleek and supportive…

We’ve been big fans of Brooks for a while, and the new Hyperion Max 4 doesn’t disappoint. They’re surprisingly lightweight and offer maximum support for walking or running, and the sleeker silhouette is easier to style than chunkier versions. If you see us with a little extra pep in our step, it’s probably because we’re wearing these. 

Dr. Scholl's Time Off Sky Sandal

Dr. Scholl's

Time Off Sky Sandals

The most comfortable  strappy sandal…

For near-clinical levels of comfort, we turn to Dr. Scholl’s. These sandals are inspired by their bestselling Time Off sneakers, but these have adjustable ankle straps and a slight heel take it to the next level. 

Dr. Martens Adrian Bex Smooth Leather Tassel Loafers

Dr. Martens

Adrian Bex Smooth Leather Tassel Loafers

Loafers worthy of a princess…

If Docs are good enough for Mia Thermopolis, Queen of Genovia, they’re good enough for us. We love these loafer versions for a classic ‘90s look with jeans and an oversized button-down, or with lacy socks and a maxi skirt. 

Clarks Livia Jane

Clarks

Livia Jane

A chic Mary Jane you’ll wear well into fall…

Like all Clarks, these Mary Janes are designed to feel broken in right out of the box. They’re comfier than most flats we’ve tried, but the faux-croc finish gives them an elevated feel.  

Mostsola Lug Sole Combat Boots at Walmart

Mostsola

Lug Sole Combat Boots

Combat boots that make a statement…

Combat boots aren’t just for winter. These ankle boots are an easy way to add edge, and the white colorway makes them appropriate for any season. They’re a true all-weather staple, and (bonus) they’re under $45.

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