AD | In my youth, I had a variety of hospitality and retail jobs that all had one thing in common – the amount of time I spent standing on feet. Finding the best shoes for walking and standing all day back then was a real challenge. Although my sneakers offered comfort, stability and support, they weren’t exactly smart footwear. Luckily nowadays it’s easier to combine comfort with style with shoes like these breathable, vegan, waterproof ones from Loom Footwear. But what really makes a good pair of comfortable work shoes or walking shoes?
What are the best shoes for walking and standing all day in comfort?
Whether you’re hiking in the mountains, exploring the city, or standing on your feet all day, there are a number of factors to consider. Well-made walking shoes can dramatically improve the health of your feet. They can cut the risk of injuries, calluses, and blisters while offering tremendous comfort thanks to optimal shock absorption and a lightweight design. Here are the features that make Loom some of the best walking shoes for men and women alike.
Built to Support Your Legs Gently
Loom shoes are made of several high-performance materials to improve your walking experience and Merino wool is the main highlight. Merino wool is much softer and finer than regular wool and functions as an internal lining with powerful shock absorption properties that protect your knees, shins, and ankles. Plus you get an Excelcast sole that follows the natural shape of your feet and protects your joints from shock and impact, as well as recycling the energy of your steps to let you move with less strain. Podiatrists developed this unique sole to ensure full support and long-lasting comfort. So not only are these some of the best shoes for walking and standing all day, they’re perfect for running, hiking, team sports, and high-impact training too.
Anti-Bacterial Comfort
Walking for long periods is healthy, but only if you wear comfortable walking shoes or running shoes that repel sweat. Otherwise, bacteria linger on your feet and leave unpleasant smells inside your sneakers. Here’s another benefit of Loom’s Merino wool interior, it offers reliable antimicrobial properties to stop bacteria, mould, and fungus from causing unpleasant odours. And it reduces the risk of athlete’s foot. While many brands consider lining the shoes only in the upper part, Loom footwear feature a Merino wool lined cushion at the bottom as well. This helps to avoid sweat settling underneath your feet and keeps them dry and comfortable. And the wool will keep your feet warm during colder weather and cool during summer.
Powerful Waterproofing Capabilities
If you’re a keen walker or runner, you might be tempted to go out in the rain too. But if your shoes aren’t waterproof, you’re more susceptible to blisters and severe discomfort. Loom sneakers feature an advanced H2Go upper layer that prevents water intrusion. These four exterior layers of breathable, moisture-wicking, and waterproof material keep your feet dry, even if you’re walking in a deluge or crossing shallow puddles. Something that my current pair of Skechers are sadly useless at doing – a recent rainy walking trip in town made me feel like I was wearing a pair of water-filled bags 🙁
Easy to Clean and Pack
One of the biggest problems associated with walking shoes is that they’re not stain-resistant. Dirt, mud, and other pollutants can linger on the surface and leave a permanent mark. So another benefit of the H2Go waterproof outer layer is that it’s extremely easy to clean thanks to its ability to repel liquids and grime. Wet wipes or a shoe brush will do the trick, and you can even rinse them without jeopardising the exterior waterproofing. And because these sneakers are such a lightweight design, they can fit most travel bags or backpacks, taking up minimal space.
Slip-On Design Benefits
If you’re in a hurry or prone to impatience, you’ll appreciate the slip on-design of Loom footwear. Simply slide your feet in and go – no fuss with zippers or laces to contend with. I think these would be perfect for children too. Plus as the laces can’t rub against your feet, you’re less likely to suffer from any irritation there either.
Eco-Friendly Production
Good news for the environmentally conscious among us, the Loom production process uses less fossil fuel, pollutants, and water, reducing their carbon footprint. And the Merino wool is sourced through vegan-friendly shearing practices, meaning no animals are harmed either.
Stylish and Versatile
Harking back to my youth again, you might think you’d need to sacrifice style for function when wearing these shoes, but that’s not so. They’re neat and compact, and wouldn’t look out of place in a host of work or exercise environments. The neutral colours go with almost any outfit too.
Taking Standing and Walking to the Next Level
As factory workers, Amazon packers, retail and hospitality staff, and nurses and doctors will know, a shoe that’s durable but also lightweight (for walking several miles a day around the factory, shop, bar, or hospital) is the Holy Grail. And the best shoes for standing all day on concrete should also have a slip-resistant sole, as you never know what messes might come your way. For walkers and hikers, Loom’s engineered cushioning limits the stress on knees, shins, and ankles. And best of all, rain is no longer a problem since these sneakers are completely waterproof. So, if you think you or someone you know would benefit from trying this Swiss army knife of walking and running shoes, why not head over to Loom Footwear to choose a pair now!
Do you have a favourite pair of walking shoes? What do you wear if you have to spend all day on your feet? Do you think you’d like to try a pair of Loom sneakers now?
* This is a sponsored post.
Yes trainers make you feel supported but also comfortable.
Exactly, especially lightweight ones.
You’re absolutely right! As I’ve gotten older I definitely dress for comfort & great shoes come as part of it. We went walking over the weekend & I would never have been able to walk as far as we did if I didn’t have the right shoes on. I’ve not heard of Loom before, but they sound great!
Claire.X
http://www.clairemac.co.uk
Oh absolutely, trainers are my goto, they can’t be beaten for the comfort factor. I love that these ones are waterproof as well though, such a bonus! x
I don’t walk as much but I stood a lot. And I’m all for a good pair of sneakers leaving your feet feeling like your feet at the end of a long day. The slip on design, that’s a beautiful minute saver! These are stylish sneakers
Standing in many ways is harder than walking, I think. Your legs and feet lock up and at the end of the day feel like lead! Wish these sneakers had been around when I worked in retail and hospitality 🙂
This is such a fantastic guide, good shoes are incredibly important!
Thank you – and yes, they are 🙂
I’ve never heard of Loom before. You’re right about buying quality and something that used shock-absorbing materials. I do heaps of walking too, and I have to invest in proper shoes or I’d be in constant agony. I do love the water resistance aspect too, as I often go walking in the rain. Great recommendation 🙂
Oh yes, proper shock absorption is key, whether you’re a walker or an all-day stander. Thank you, Lindsay, glad you like the recommendation 🙂
This post really resonates with me as because of my knee injury I have chronic pain and fibromyalgia so supportive footwear is essential for me when I am walking around. I haven’t heard of these before. But they sound great and I love that they are eco-friendly. Thank you for sharing these Lisa, so helpful!
Lauren
Ah, I’m sorry to hear about your knee, Lauren, I can completely understand your need for properly supportive and comfortable footwear. Yes, as you say, it’s great Loom are so eco-friendly, a real tick in the box!
This time of year, I spend a lot of my time outside going for long walks in really rural and woodland areas. I learnt my lesson last year when I wore bad footwear and was hobbling around for a week!
Rosie
Oh no, that sounds so painful, Rosie, poor you – lesson learned!
I definitely need some walking shoes. I have proper sturdy boots for multi-day hikes, but I don’t really do those often and they’re heavy.
These Loom ones sound nice, and actually what I’m looking for. They’re a little bit out of my price point with overseas shipping and customs charges, but I’ll keep an eye out for a good sale.
Cora | https://www.teapartyprincess.co.uk/
They’re really good sneakers aren’t they? Yes, I know what you mean about customs charges and shipping, but keep an eye open as I believe they have a Black Friday deal coming up!
It’s great to see companies making an effort to reduce their carbon footprint (pun intended!)
I see what you did there! Yes, it is 🙂
This post is very apt for me because I really struggle with shoes. I know that sounds odd but for some reason, almost every pair of shoes I own eat my feet up if I stand or walk in them for too long. Not sure whether my feet are just extra sensitive or the shape of them just lends them to rubbing but it’s a nightmare. Even my chiropodist doesn’t understand! Great post Lisa x
Oh no, so sorry to hear that, Jenny, that’s not good at all 🙁 It sounds like you need some Ugg-type boots (or Loom sneakers!), or at least something that offers real cushioning but is also robust. Especially if you come down to Bath, where you’ll be doing lots of walking 🙂 x
These look great! I am forever surprised how uncomfortable many sneakers can be so delighted to read a detailed review. Thanks for sharing Lisa!
They do, don’t they? Thank you, Jenni!
I’m a very keen hiker so always spend a lot of time finding the right hiking boots but I tend to forget that my work shoes also need to be good when I’m on my feet all day. My most recent pair have all but given up so I’m gonna use this a wee guide for new ones and hopefully they’ll stop my legs from feeling so sore by the end of my shift! Great guide
That’s great to hear, Nicci, I’m glad this guide was helpful, thank you!
As someone who loves walking, having comfortable shoes is a must! I’d most likely buy one if it was available where I live.
Absolutely – although Loom do ship overseas if that helps!
When I comes to walking and standing, I believe Regetta Canoe offers the best shoes. Just sharing ^_^
They do look very comfortable, but I think I prefer sneakers to clog-type shoes 🙂
This is an interesting blog. I learned something new. I had no idea that there was footwear on the market that has antibacterial capabilities. Good to know. Thanks for sharing.
Thank you – and yes, it’s such a good feature isn’t it? Especially for sneakers.
Great post! You really need to aim for comfort when it comes to Winter, especially if you’re going to be walking 🙂 thanks for sharing these choices Lisa x
Thank you, Eleanor – yes, I think the waterproofing element is a game changer 🙂 x
I’m currently looking for a good pair of sneakers. I’ll definitely look into Loom
Great timing on my part then, happy hunting!
I really appreciated your insight. I have been looking at buying several new pair of shoes lately and I think your tips really help to create an ultimate show buying checklist.
Thank you, Heidi, I’m so pleased it was helpful – happy shopping!
These shoes look perfect for long walks etc, I like that are made through an eco-friendly production x
Lucy | http://www.lucymary.co.uk
Yes, it’s a real bonus, isn’t it? Thank you, Lucy x
When I think of the shoes I love for standing in my feet all day on, I think of Dansko’s. They are mainly bought by kitchen professionals (cooks) and are not for hiking or running in, but they have amazing support and are comfortable. I bought a pair three years ago when I started working in the food industry and love them to this day, but Loom’s shoe-wear sounds a lot more versatile, so I cannot wait to check it out!
Thanks for sharing. 🙂
I don’t think we have Dansko’s over here, but they sound perfect for hospitality, retail, and the medical and caring professions. As you say, perhaps not so good for running though! Thank you, Jaya 🙂
Great review! I hadn’t heard of these shoes before but they look amazing – I love that they were produced in an eco friendly way and having waterproof shoes is honestly essential (especially in rainy England haha). Thanks for sharing, I’m definitely going to look into these x
Thank you – yes, I think the waterproofing element is a game changer, perfect for our climate as you say! x
These are great points to consider when buying walking shoes. I will check out Loom!
xoxo
Lovely
http://www.mynameislovely.com
Thank you, I hope you find some you like 🙂
This is a fabulous guide. Not having the right or comfortable footwear can give you a bad back. I always have these one pair of trainers that I instantly wear, really need new ones!
Thank you – and yes, I agree, anything to save my back has to be a good investment!
This is super helpful, I’m a nightmare with shoes tbh and usually choose style over comfort. Something I’ll no doubt regret in later years after all that heel wearing xx
I can’t wear heels, they absolutely cripple me – comfort all the way for me! xx
I’ve never heard of this brand. Thank you for recomending.
We are always out walking and I’m on the lookout for some new walking gear.
Great timing on my part then – hope you find a pair you like!
I have not heard of this brand before and it might not be available in Canada but I will definitely look out for it. Thanks for sharing Lisa!
I think it’s a relatively unknown brand, but I’m sure it won’t stay that way for long 🙂
Great post! I totally agree that you need comfortable and good quality shoes for walking and standing! My shoes are starting to get old so I’ll check out these shoes! Thank you for sharing this!
Good timing on my part then – thank you, hope you find a pair you like!
I am on my feet all day and feeling it. I will have to check out your choices for footwear as I am definitely needing to take better care of my feet. With the holidays coming up it will be particularly busy and I can use the relief!
Thank you, Marysa, I hope you can find a pair of sneakers to help 🙂
Great tips! I’ve worn so many unsuitable ones (and I don’t mean heels) but assuming I’d have enough grip and support… how very wrong!
I think it’s very easy to wear unsuitable shoes without realising 🙂
I have scoliosis, so having comfy shoes to walk and stand in all day is super important. I also love it when it’s water-proofed so I can run and jump on puddles without worrying haha. Thanks for sharing this informative blog post, Lisa! Fantastic content as always xo
I can only try to imagine how important supportive footwear must be, Monique, and thank you so much for your kind comment x
I do walk a lot and definitely a good pair of comfortable althletic shoes can make a huge difference!
Yes indeed, they certainly can!
My favorite walking shoes are ones by Skechers. They slip on & have memory foam so they’re comfortable to wear. However, they’re not waterproof so I’m intrigued by Loom Footwear
That’s my issue with my Skechers too, they’re very comfortable but not waterproof, unlike Loom!
With a knee injury I am certainly appreciating practical shoes like this regularly, haha! I wear sneakers a lot more now than I used to, even if I’m not running (can’t run with the knee!) just because I need the extra comfort and support they give!
Hope that you had a great weekend 🙂 We made the most of the warm sunny days after a rainy week 🙂
Oh no, sorry to hear about your injury – but yes, I agree, sneakers aren’t only for running, they’re great for all round support 🙂 And yes, we had a good weekend too, thank you!