Best Shoes for Pregnancy, According to a Podiatrist
![Best Shoes for Pregnancy](jpg/best-shoes-pregnant-women-dec-2022-722x40638e0.jpg?width=414)
What to Expect selects products based on real-life testing conducted by staff, contributors and members our user community, as well as independent research and expert feedback; learn more about our review process. Prices and details are accurate as of the published date. We may earn commissions from shopping links.
- Most Comfortable Sandals : Crocs Women's Sexi Flip-Flop
- Most Breathable Shoes : Skechers Performance Go Walk Joy
- Most Supportive Sandals : Birkenstock Gizeh Birko-Flor
- Best Slip-Ons : Teva ReEmber Slip-On
- Most Versatile Sandals : Oofos OOriginal Sandal
- Best Work Shoes : Franco Sarto Sela Mule
- Best Active Shoes : New Balance Fresh Foam Sport Lightweight Running Shoe
- Best Canvas Shoes : Toms Women's Alpargata Heritage Canvas
- Best Eco-Friendly Shoes : Rothy’s The Chelsea
- Best Running Shoes : Hoka One One Bondi 7
- Best Sneakers with Arch Support : Taos Star Sneaker
- Best Slippers : Vionic Relax Slippers
- Best Cold Weather Shoes : Allbirds Women’s Wool Loungers
- Best Winter Boots : Ugg Classic Mini II Waterproof Snow Boot
- Most Stylish Boots : Naot Spello
- Best Rain Boots : Hunter Women’s Original Chelsea Boots
- Best Warm-Weather Shoes : Sanuk Yoga Sling 2
- Best High-Top Shoes : Dr. Scholl's If Only
- Best Espadrilles : Soludos Jason Polan Espadrille Sandal
- Easiest Shoes to Put On : Kizik Madrid Eco-Knit Sneakers
- Best Shoes for Size Variation : Saysh One
Heartburn, nausea, lower back pain — when you’re pregnant, you expect that your body will undergo changes. But some may surprise, like changes to a body part that, as an adult, rarely fluctuates in size: your feet.
How can pregnancy affect your feet?
“Pregnancy usually results in weight gain, which is normal, but this can cause problems with your feet,” says Ashley Lee, D.P.M., a foot and ankle reconstructive surgeon. That's because increased weight on your joints could lead to structural changes in your tootsies, like the arches of your feet losing some height.
At the same time, the ligaments and tendons in your feet are also going through changes. “During pregnancy, it's common for these ligaments and tendons to relax, causing the feet to 'expand,'" says Dr. Lee. That might also make your arches flatten and cause your shoes to feel a little tight.
Feet also tend to swell when you’re expecting, which is a common side effect during pregnancy called edema. “This is due to the extra fluid in the body and the pressure from a growing uterus,” explains Dr. Lee. “Gravity pulls this fluid to the feet and ankles, which can cause painful swelling. Wearing compression stockings during pregnancy, limiting salt intake and elevating when seated can all help with lower extremity swelling.”
What to look for in maternity shoes
Of course, the right footwear can help your feet feel a little better. If your pre-pregnancy shoes feel tight, Lee suggests buying wider shoes or sizing up. Wearing pre-pregnancy shoes even that are uncomfortably tight can lead to pain and long-term complications.
For the most support, turn to gym shoes, she says. But if you want something a little more stylish, that’s okay, as long as you choose wisely — Dr. Lee suggests wedges (preferably low ones) and flats over heels, since these options provide support to the entire bottom of the foot, whereas heels puts pressure on only the ball and heel of your feet. Not to mention, there’s a higher risk of falling when wearing heels, she says.
Finally, some shoes come with a seal of acceptance by the American Podiatric Medical Association (APMA), a special seal given to products that promote good foot health.
How we chose the best shoes for pregnancy
To help you shop, we scoured posts in the What to Expect community to see what other parents love and recommend to others. We also closely referenced Dr. Lee’s guidance when selecting these shoes, looking for supportive options and avoiding high heels. We also gave bonus points to shoes that were APMA-accepted, as you'll find noted below.
Here, the best shoes to wear during pregnancy.
Most Comfortable Sandals
Crocs Women's Sexi Flip-Flop
![Best Shoes for Pregnancy - Crocs Women's Sexi Flip-Flop](http://images.agoramedia.com/wte3.0/gcms/crocs-womens-sexi-flip-flop-black.jpg)
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These sandals from Crocs have no restrictive sides, meaning they should accommodate any growth that occurs during pregnancy. The thin T-strap style will let you feel like you're practically walking barefoot — but the foam footbed still offers plenty of support for achy soles. They’re also simple in design, meaning they’ll work with just about any outfit — so long as it’s warm outside.
Material: Croslite foam
“Crocs flip flops. I LIVE in them! I actually bought my first pair over a year ago when we were at DisneyWorld. My tennis shoes were killing my feet and I needed something else. Bought a pair of crocs flip flops and now I do not wear anything else. They are WONDERFUL!!!”
“I wouldn't be without my croc flip flops I have had them for years, my parents and hubby are hooked on them too! So so comfy”
“I live in crocs flip flops alllll summer.”
Most Breathable Shoes
Skechers Performance Go Walk Joy
![Best Shoes for Pregnancy - Skechers Performance Go Walk Joy](http://images.agoramedia.com/wte3.0/gcms/skechers-go-walk-joy-walking-shoe-taupe.jpg)
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No sweaty feet here! The knit mesh fabric on these breathable shoes helps keep toes cool, and even though they boast a good amount of cushioning, they're still lightweight. You can slip them on quickly as you’re running out the door — or running after a soon-to-be big brother or sister. Also nice: There’s a wide range of hues you can choose from — opt for this versatile taupe, go classic with black or fun and flirty with bright pink.
Material: Ortholite comfort foam insole, mesh upper, recycled rubber
“Sketchers walkers are great.”
“Sketchers GoWalks. A DREAM. Bought them last time and bought some this time too. Important detail - they have some slip on styles. This is important once your belly gets too big for you to even think about tying up laces!”
Most Supportive Sandals
Birkenstock Gizeh Birko-Flor
![Best Shoes for Pregnancy - Birkenstock Gizeh Birko-Flor](http://images.agoramedia.com/wte3.0/gcms/birkenstock-gizeh-birko-flor-flip-flop.jpg)
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Somehow, the contoured footbeds on these sandals know exactly how to hug your sole. The straps may look like leather, but they’re actually a PVC plastic lined with a soft layer of fleece inside, which is a plus when you want your feet to stay blister-free. They might look casual at first, but reviewers praise how great these shoes look dressed up or down. While they are on the more expensive side for a pair of sandals, Birkenstocks hold up extremely well, meaning you’ll get plenty of wear out of them as the years pass.
Material: Birko-Flor PVC upper, natural leather insole, cork footbed, EVA outsole
“I had really bad sciatica and swollen feet with my first but my Birkenstocks were heaven sent, they were soooo comfortable! I've been hooked on them since.”
“I live in my Birkenstocks. I wear these every day!”
“I love my Birkenstock Gizeh sandals. I know they’re not for everyone but they are supportive and last a long time.”
“I am a Birkenstock cult follower so I wear them in the house and outside and everywhere. I am pregnant and need good supportive shoes but also don't like to have tennis shoes on all the time as well.”
Best Slip-Ons
Teva ReEmber Slip-On
Your feet deserve to be wrapped up in slipper-like shoes — that are totally acceptable to wear out of the house — every day. Teva describes these top-rated slip-ons as being as comfy as a sleeping bag, and it’s easy to see why: They're cushioned with EVA foam, and the heel can collapse if you prefer to wear them as slides. They also come with a special antimicrobial treatment to prevent them from getting smelly. What's more, this pair is also water-resistant, making them easy to clean and durable on misty days.
Material: Recycled ripstop, rib knit, microfiber and polyester
Most Versatile Sandals
Oofos OOriginal Sandal
![Best Shoes for Pregnancy - Oofos OOriginal Sandal](http://images.agoramedia.com/wte3.0/gcms/oofos-ooriginal-sandal.jpg)
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When you’re pregnant, merely spending time standing up can leave you feeling like you just ran a 10K. Enter: The Oofos OOriginal Sandals, which one What to Expect community parent deemed “the best sandals ever.” These lightweight shoes feature a foam footbed to support your arch and take stress off your feet, knees and lower back — areas that are probably giving you discomfort. Although they have an open back, the sole curves up to cradle your arches. And who could resist the pretty lavender shade?
Material: Foam
“At home I wear oofos exclusively. The sandals are amazing. super soft but with arch support.”
“Oofos! I have plantar fasciitis and nerve pain from sciatica. Plus the regular swollen soreness. These sandals are life savers! They have a ton of colors, but they are a little pricey at 50-60$. Totally worth it though!”
“They are the most comfortable shoes I've found. I have dealt with plantar fasciitis and a heel spur in my left foot, and these were the only shoes that gave me serious relief!”
Best Work Shoes
Franco Sarto Sela Mule
![Best Shoes for Pregnancy - Franco Sarto Sela Mule](http://images.agoramedia.com/wte3.0/gcms/franco-sarto-sela-mule-black.jpg)
When you want the sleek look of a loafer but can’t bear the thought of wearing anything confining, slide your feet into these classic leather mules. The back is open, so your heels can breathe, and they feature a comfortable footbed. They’re also nice and low to the ground, which will help you stay balanced and grounded.
Material: Leather
Best Active Shoes
New Balance Fresh Foam Sport Lightweight Running Shoe
![New Balance Sneakers](http://images.agoramedia.com/wte3.0/gcms/new-balance-fresh-foam-sport-v2-running-shoe-black.jpg)
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These shoes from New Balance are truly special, providing great protection whether you’re running or just going to the grocery store. The sleek black tennies fit true-to-size, so you should feel confident even if you order them online. The flexible mesh leaves room for any changes your foot might undergo, and the cushioning throughout supports the extra weight you’re carrying. What’s more, they can be pulled off quickly.
Material: Fabric, mesh, foam, rubber
“I like New Balance shoes for the gym and running.”
“I like new balance for working out.”
Best Canvas Shoes
Toms Women's Alpargata Heritage Canvas
![Best Shoes for Pregnancy - Toms Women's Alpargata Heritage Canvas](http://images.agoramedia.com/wte3.0/gcms/toms-grey-heritage-canvas-espadrille.jpg)
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During a time when it can be a tall order to bend over to put shoes on, these flats come in clutch. They’re a cinch to slip on and off, so half the battle of getting out the door has already been won. They’re made with lots of environmentally friendly materials like recycled cotton and foam, and they have a durable, tractioned sole to prevent slippage. Plus, walking in these shoes gently stretches out the fabric over time. Normally that might be a pain, but with widening feet, it’s just what you need now.
Material: Jute, recycled cotton, recycled PU foam, recycled rubber
“I love the Toms brand (any style). They offer great arch support.”
“I lived in toms and wide birkenstock-like sandals the last couple of months of my pregnancy. Toms are cut kind of wide and stretch out so they were pretty comfy and were the only shoes that fit when I had major swelling post partum”
Best Eco-Friendly Shoes
Rothy’s The Chelsea
![Best Shoes for Pregnancy - Rothy’s The Chelsea](http://images.agoramedia.com/wte3.0/gcms/rothys-the-chelsea-black.jpg)
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This pull-on boot will dress up your everyday style. Made with durable, comfy side panels, feet slip in easily. (Lots of pregnant reviewers specifically note the nice cushion and how easy they are to put on.) Plus, you don’t have to worry about breaking them in — they’ll feel perfect from the first wear. As an added perk, Rothy’s shoes are made from plastic water bottles and can be tossed into the washing machine when they start to look a little dingy.
Material: Rothy’s signature thread fabric spun from water bottles
“I love my Rothys. They’re not cheap but you can wash them in the machine and they look professional”
“I love my Rothys. They’re expensive but so comfy and stretchy. And washable!”
Best Running Shoes
Hoka One One Bondi 7
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Your first thought when you see these sneakers is probably, “Wow! What a large sole!” And you're right — but those large soles feel like clouds. The cushioned midsoles on these APMA-accepted shoes offer superior shock absorption, while the special design naturally propels you forward. All that adds up to a shoe that was made for running so you and babe can (comfortably) put in the miles.
Material: Mesh, memory foam, EVA, rubber
“Hoka tennis shoes! They are expensive but my back doesn’t hurt as much anymore and my feet never hurt now.”
Best Sneakers with Arch Support
Taos Star Sneaker
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A simple sneaker with a lot going for it, these lace-up canvas kicks boast a comfortable footbed, as well as metatarsal (aka the long bones in the middle of your foot) and heel support, meaning your arches will feel cradled and comfy. Even better, they’re available in both regular and wide widths, and if you wear orthotics, there’s room for them as well. Choose from more than a dozen colors, from crisp white to teal or pink. (Note that the brand recommends going up a half size for a perfect fit.)
Material: Canvas, rubber
“incredibly supportive, but also pricey”
Best Slippers
Vionic Relax Slippers
![Best Shoes for Pregnancy - Vionic Relax Slippers](http://images.agoramedia.com/wte3.0/gcms/Vionic-Womens-Relax-Slipper-Tan.jpg)
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Allow us to introduce you to your new favorite house shoes. Yes, these are technically slippers, but since they're made by foot-friendly brand Vionic, they boast an orthotic footbed that conforms comfortably to swollen feet. The adjustable closure means you can easily make the shoe tighter or looser, too. And the terry cloth material offers ultimate softness, and they're even designed to help resist odor-causing bacteria. They’re even accepted by the APMA.
Material: Polyester terry cloth
“Vionic shoes have very good, long-lasting arch support. They are not inexpensive, but they last forever.
“Vionic makes some slippers and all their shoes have good arch support.”
Best Cold Weather Shoes
Allbirds Women’s Wool Loungers
![Best Shoes for Pregnancy - Allbirds Women’s Wool Loungers](http://images.agoramedia.com/wte3.0/gcms/allbirds-womens-wool-loungers.jpg)
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Because of the shoe’s flexible wool material, these slip-ons really do glide right onto your feet — a necessity once you enter the third trimester. They’re supremely comfortable and breathable, too, thanks to the temperature-regulating fabric. You’ll want to keep this pair on all day, every day. Go right ahead — they’re machine-washable, so they’ll look like new despite the heavy wear.
Material: Merino wool
“I bought a pair of Allbirds (slip ons) and their insoles are a dream. Highly recommend!”
Best Winter Boots
Ugg Classic Mini II Waterproof Snow Boot
![Best Shoes for Pregnancy - Ugg Classic Mini II Waterproof Snow Boot](http://images.agoramedia.com/wte3.0/gcms/ugg-womens-classic-mini-ii-winter-boot-grey.jpg)
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When winter’s chill rolls in during the later stages of your pregnancy, you don’t want to find yourself hunched over trying to wrangle tight, heavy boots with cumbersome laces. Instead, turn to an old staple: Uggs. This best-selling short version of the classic boot is a breeze to slip on, but has all the comforts of the original, including a lightweight body, highly cushioned sheepskin interiors and plenty of flexibility. As a bonus, these shoes also offer lots of traction in slippery conditions.
Material: Sheepskin, suede, Treadlite
“I've been wearing my Uggs exclusively!”
Most Stylish Boots
Naot Spello
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You don’t have to give up on your nice leather boots as you progress in your pregnancy. These smooth leather and nubuck ankle-style boots are APMA-approved, thanks largely in part to a removable cork and latex footbed that molds to the shape of your foot to provide plenty of support and comfort. A zippered side makes them an easy-on, easy-off option during pregnancy, too. If you’re not a fan of the bordeaux color, they’re also available in a classic black.
Material: Leather, cork, latex, suede
“I'm on my feet a lot during the day as a teacher. ...I swear by the shoe brand Naot. My chiropractor recommended them and they help my legs, feet, and back immensely.”
Best Rain Boots
Hunter Women’s Original Chelsea Boots
![Best Shoes for Pregnancy - Hunter Women’s Original Chelsea Boots](http://images.agoramedia.com/wte3.0/gcms/hunter-womens-original-chelsea-boots-black.jpg)
Pulling on tall, bulky rain boots is a tall order when you’re about ready to pop, which is what makes this shorter style so appealing for pregnant women. Like traditional Hunter Boots, they’re incredibly durable, waterproof and stylish — but unlike the traditional pair, you probably won’t struggle to put them on. They have a wider ankle circumference and an increased curve in the heel and around your Achilles tendon for a more comfortable fit, so it shouldn’t rub uncomfortably against your foot anywhere. Simply slip your foot in, and go.
Material: Polyester, rubber, nylon webbing
Best Warm-Weather Shoes
Sanuk Yoga Sling 2
![Best Shoes for Pregnancy - Sanuk Yoga Sling 2](http://images.agoramedia.com/wte3.0/gcms/sanuk-yoga-sling-2-shimmer-black.jpg)
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When the temperature spikes, you’ll be grateful to have this comfortable, versatile pair of shoes in your closet. It has a unique construction — it’s made of yoga mats! — that’ll make you feel like you’re walking on air. Adding to the comfort factor, there’s a lightweight, two-way stretch knit that stretches with you as your feet “grow.” The squishy material and non-restrictive design allows ample room for your feet to grow in size, too.
Material: Rubber sponge, fabric
“I live in flip flops too and found my feet and legs just killed me after a day of running around in them. I got the Sanuk yoga slings and love them! So comfy ( made with real yoga mats) and offer the support I was looking for and needed.”
“I love sanuks. The part under your foot is made from yoga mat material. The sling parts are super soft. I got the black ones! They aren't dressy but the black makes them not look like just flip flops. And it's not crazy expensive per pair.”
Best High-Top Shoes
Dr. Scholl's If Only
![Best Shoes for Pregnancy - Dr. Scholl's If Only](http://images.agoramedia.com/wte3.0/gcms/dr-scholls-if-only-oyster-shoes.jpg)
Think of these stylish slip-on sneaks as a great alternative to custom orthotics. They’re backed by the popular Dr. Scholl’s name and have a special technology in the insole designed for maximum comfort and plenty of support everywhere you need it most. It also gives you a bit of added height, thanks to the hidden two-inch heel wedge. As a nice bonus, the soft linings and topcloth are made from recycled bottles, making this pair a purchase you can feel doubly good about.
Best Espadrilles
Soludos Jason Polan Espadrille Sandal
![Best Shoes for Pregnancy - Soludos ??Jason Polan Espadrille Sandal](http://images.agoramedia.com/wte3.0/gcms/soludos-jason-polan-espadrille-sandal.jpg)
An espadrille is always a smart choice, but when you add fun, trendy — and sometimes even quirky — stitching to the top, you have a super-fun pair of shoes you’ll basically want to live in. Making the deal even sweeter: A flexible exterior that shouldn’t feel tight as your foot swells and a rubber, grippy sole that’ll afford you plenty of traction, no matter where your day takes you. Just know that they’ll feel a little big snug when you’re first breaking them in, but will stretch to accommodate the perfect fit.
Material: Cotton, jute, rubber
Easiest Shoes to Put On
Kizik Madrid Eco-Knit Sneakers
![Best Shoes for Pregnancy - Kizik Madrid Eco-Knit Sneakers](http://images.agoramedia.com/wte3.0/gcms/kizik-madrid-eco-knit-sneaker.jpg)
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When you’re in the later stages of pregnancy, the last thing you want to do is bend over to tie your shoes. Instead of ditching your sneakers for months and only wearing slip-ons, consider a pair of Kiziks. All you need to do is literally step into them and you’re set – no bending over or tying laces necessary. On top of being incredibly easy to slip into, these shoes are made with a high-quality knit fabric that stretches. The dense foam insole provides lots of support and comfort, and the traction on the bottom will keep you steady.
Material: Fabric made from recycled plastic bottles, foam, rubber
“I got a pair of Kizik shoes for Christmas and I LOVE them. They’re pretty much the only shoe I wear outside of work (I’m a nurse) anymore”
“love Kizik!! … They are a little pricier but so worth it, and super cute!”
“I just got a pair of Kizik sneakers and they are sooo comfy, fit perfectly and are super easy to slip on and off. I definitely plan to buy more”
Best Shoes for Size Variation
Saysh One
These Saysh One sneakers were designed to be worn at anytime, anywhere. The design is undeniably slick, and these kicks provide all the support you need. But our favorite thing about the Saysh brand, founded by Olympian Allyson Felix, is its pregnancy-friendly return policy: You can get a free pair of sneakers if your shoe size increases while you're expecting. That way, you don't need to worry about buying a new pair of shoes only to have them not fit for potentially months on end. How incredible is that?
- Ashley Lee, D.P.M., a foot and ankle reconstructive surgeon
- KidsHealth from Nemours, Can Pregnant Women Do Anything to Reduce or Prevent Swollen Ankles? January 2021.
- National Institutes of Health, National Library of Medicine, Pregnancy Leads to Lasting Changes in Foot Structure, March 2013.