As an avid walker and marathon runner who clocks over 20,000 steps per day, I take my sneakers very seriously. After trying dozens of pairs over the last decade—from big-name brands to low-key loafers—I’ve learned that the most expensive shoes aren’t necessarily always the best when it comes to injury prevention, comfort, traction, and durability. In fact, some of the best pairs I keep running back to (literally) cost under $50 at Amazon.
Whether you want to keep plantar fasciitis at bay while jogging or need a supportive shoe for long shifts at work, there’s no need to break the bank. From cloud-like Croc sneakers to denser, podiatrist-designed Sketchers, we’ve rounded up 10 kicks worth slipping your feet into.
Best Comfy Sneakers Under $50 at Amazon
- Keemz Slip-On Casual Sneakers, $30
- Crocs LiteRide 360 Pacer Sneakers, from $27
- Skechers Arch Fit Refine Don’t Go Sneaker, $43 (was $48)
- Nortiv 9 Athletic Shoe, $25
- Nautica Lace-Up Sneaker, $35
- Dream Pairs Lightweight Casual Sneaker, $19 (was $23)
- New Balance 515 V3 Sneaker, $40 (was $75)
- Alicegana Casual Tennis Shoes, $24
- Skechers Consistent Sneaker, $47 (was $73)
- Ezkrwxn Trail Running & Walking Shoes, $23
Keemz Slip-On Casual Sneakers
Amazon
I have walked hundreds of miles in these simple, slip-on kicks over the years, and have repurchased them four times so far. They’re breathable, featherlight, true to size, and have zero break-in period—in other words, they’re my ideal shoe.
Whether scaling the steep sidewalks of San Francisco or standing at my writing desk, I can spend up to 10 hours on my feet with no aches or pains when I strap these budget-friendly tennis shoes on. They offer a surprising amount of arch support, and the flexible knitted mesh upper makes them wide-foot friendly. I always go for the classic all-white option, but there’s a whopping 10 unique colors to choose from, including a vibrant fuschia, deep aubergine, and neutral gray.
Crocs LiteRide 360 Pacer Sneakers
Amazon
Whether you live in Crocs or feel the urge to call the fashion police whenever you see the polarizing foam pumps, the brand undeniably knows how to make an ultra-cozy shoe. The LiteRide 360 Pacers infuse a classic (and actually cute) sneaker with Crocs’ cloud-like comfort for all-day (and all-season) wear.
Over 1,000 Amazon reviewers—from nurses with long shifts to Disney World travelers—give the LiteRides a perfect five-star rating, calling them “feet savers,” “easy to clean,” and the “perfect go-to summer shoes” due to their lightweight, breathable, and washable design. Prices range from $27 to $45, depending on the colorway and size.
Skechers Arch Fit Refine Don’t Go Sneaker
Amazon
For those with arches in need of a little extra TLC, these podiatrist-designed sneakers are an optimal choice. The patented insole system and shape was developed with 20 years of data and 120,000 unweighted foot scans for the ultimate ride-or-die walking sneakers, and they’re packed with thoughtful features including a breathable knit upper and a laceless, sock-like fit.
According to happy Amazon shoppers, the Don’t Go Sneakers “provide great support,” “sleek enough to wear to the office,” and “the best shoes for standing all day.” Currently, you can save a few bucks on the all-black color option and have them at your doorstep with speedy two-day Prime shipping.
Nortiv 8 Athletic Shoe
Amazon
These stylish sneakers are just $25—but they’re far from cheap. Designed to absorb impact, keep feet cool, and snuggly support feet, the Nortiv 8s have garnered praise for their comfort and affordability (and have even been compared to more expensive counterparts). They’re ideal for walking, running, and cross-training thanks to an anti-slip rubber outsole that helps gain and maintain traction, and an elastic E-TPU helps them to flex and expand to your feet as needed.
One shopper compared the shoes to “walking on marshmallows,” while another reported that they “feel great” for over 10 miles a day. While reviewers claim the shoes are generally true-to-size, it’s recommended that those with orthotics go up half a size for extra support and breathability.
Take it from me when I say I’ve tried more than enough shoes to know what’s comfy and what isn’t. For more of under-$50 comfy sneakers, keep reading on.
Nautica Lace-Up Sneaker
Amazon
New Balance 515 V3 Sneaker
Amazon
Alicegana Casual Tennis Shoes
Amazon
Sketchers Consistent Sneaker
Amazon
Ezkrwxn Trail Running & Walking Shoes
Amazon