Pregnancy isn’t known to be particularly comfortable. Your feet swell, your belly may feel heavy and come week 30—you’ll likely just feel ready. While there are certain aspects of discomfort that are unavoidable, there are things you can do to make the journey more enjoyable, like investing in shoes that truly fit your feet and require less effort to put on. The best shoes for pregnancy have the right amount of support, are adjustable to accommodate swelling, cushioned and maybe even make you feel confident.
We found the best shoes for pregnancy, according to moms and podiatrists.
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Dr. Daniel Pledger, podiatrist and founder of ePodiatrists, says there are a couple of other things to consider when choosing the best shoes for pregnancy: “Opt for shoes that provide ample arch support,” he says. “The additional weight and changes in posture during pregnancy can lead to overpronation, which can strain the feet and contribute to discomfort or pain. Arch support helps to maintain proper alignment and reduce excessive stress on the arches.”
Dr. Pledger stresses that a wide toe box is optimal as “swelling is a common occurrence during pregnancy, particularly in the feet and ankles.” Shoes with a wider toe box also allow for good circulation. Additionally, he recommends choosing something with a cushioned sole because “pregnancy can put added pressure on the feet, and having adequate cushioning helps absorb shock and reduce impact, minimizing discomfort and fatigue.”
With your comfort and the doctor’s advice in mind, here are the best shoes for pregnancy, no matter your style.
Hokas are already well-known for their added layers of support and cushion, so it’s probably no surprise that we’ve recommended them as the best shoes for pregnancy. Over and over, I heard pregnant moms recommend these Hoka Clifton 9 shoes in particular, because of the super supportive sole, lightweight build and extra cushion that absorbs impact and evenly distributes weight. Reviewers say the Clifton 9 style has a “roomy” toe box and that these shoes are ideal for being on your feet all day or running. If the swelling is really impacting you this pregnancy, you can also opt for the wide width in these Hokas. It doesn’t hurt that there are 19 appealing color options.
Best Warm-Weather Shoes For Pregnancy
An Adjustable And Supremely Comfortable Shoe
Birkenstock
Birkenstock Arizona Big Buckle Sandals
Dr. Nisarg Patel, an OB and gynecologist, at ClinicSpots suggests the Arizona sandal from Birkenstock as an ideal shoe for pregnancy, because it’s “comfortable, supportive, breathable and adjustable.” Dr. Patel notes that it also has “arch support and toe grip and an EVA outsole with a 0.5-inch heel,” which make the Arizona sandal a great option at every stage of pregnancy.
Having worn these often in both of my pregnancies, I certainly agree. The Birkenstock Arizona sandals were the most recommended pair by the many moms I spoke with in my research for this article. They’re by far the most comfortable shoe I’ve tried and they’re easy to throw on and adjust as your feet swell and change. The more you wear them, the more they mold to your foot, so they just keep getting more pleasant to wear. They’re also extremely durable and, lucky for those pregnant right now, having a major fashion moment.
Best Office Shoes For Pregnancy
A Classic Option Suitable For Work Or Fun
Nordstrom
Dolce Vita Hardi Slingback Penny Loafer
These slingback penny loafers are an ideal shoe to wear to work or outings where you want to look a bit more polished. They’re available in wide range of colors—nine, in fact—to match just about any office outfit. We like that the strap at the back is adjustable, so if your feet need a little more room now but maybe won’t after baby arrives, you have options. A small 1-inch block heel gives you a little bit of lift without sacrificing stability.
Best Eco-Friendly Shoes For Pregnancy
Breathable Slip-On Sneakers That Offer All-Day Comfort
Allbirds
Allbirds Tree Loungers
These simple slip-on sneakers fit the bill when it comes to pregnancy shoes. They’re lightweight with a cushioned midsole that provides adequate support, no matter what your day holds. They’re also made from breathable eucalyptus fiber and offer some stretch, which is ideal—especially come the third trimester. As one pregnant reviewer wrote, “I’m currently pregnant and the easy slip-on factor and how good they feel on my feet has been a game changer. I bought these before a trip to Europe and was able to walk miles without discomfort or blisters (and I wear without socks). Would highly recommend.”
Best Splurge Shoes For Pregnancy
Sleek Slip-Ons With Tons Of Cushion And Plenty Of Color Options
APL
APL Women's TechLoom Bliss
Whether you’re enjoying a walk, workout or just in need of a little extra comfort throughout your day, the APL TechLoom Bliss sneakers feel like stepping on a cloud. Not only are they breathable, perfectly cushioned and easy to slip on, but they’re also stretchy enough to accommodate swollen feet and comfortable enough to wear all day. The TechLoom Bliss running shoes are available in more than 50 color and print combinations (a personal favorite is leopard). They also offer a comparable slide if you’re looking for an open-toe option. Both of these shoes have been absolute lifesavers in my own pregnancies, especially once I passed the point of being able to comfortably bend down to tie my shoes.
Best Flat Shoes For Pregnancy
Machine Washable, Stretchable And Available In An Array Of Colors
Rothy's
Rothy's The Flat
The idea of flats can seem unattractive during pregnancy, given that you’re likely running hot and swelling can make any closed-toed shoe feel unbearable. Not Rothy’s flats. These are made from recycled water bottles and woven into a breathable knit with a soft, flexible construction. They have super comfortable insoles—and they’re machine washable. They only stretch a smidge, so you don’t have to worry about them flopping off after a day of particularly swollen feet. They’re available in 16 colors and patterns. Lastly, the subtle V-design offers a touch more ventilation and elongates the look of your foot even when you’re feeling your most swollen.
Best Supportive Sandals For Pregnancy
An Easily Adjustable Sandal With A Sturdy Tread
Amazon
Teva Hurricane Drift Sandal
Dr. Sonia Bahlani, an OB/GYN and pelvic pain specialist, says her patients typically find the Teva Hurricane to be among their “favorites during pregnancy for support.” Not only are the Teva Hurricane Drift Sandals budget friendly, but they’re lightweight, comfortable, supportive and have a simple, adjustable fit. In general, she recommends “supportive” shoes for pregnancy that “have room to move,” which these Tevas do. It’s also helpful that they’re waterproof, made from recycled materials and can be recycled (via Teva) once you’re done with them. They also come in a number of colors and prints to suit your style (as well as a mini-me kids’ version).
Best Stylish Shoes For Pregnancy
Comfortable And Adjustable Wedges
Shopbop
Castañer Carina Wedge Espadrilles
While Dr. Bahali suggests avoiding traditional heels if you can, these Castañer Carina Wedge Espadrilles are a supportive and fairly safe option, which happen to be available in a number of colors, materials and heights. The Castañer wedges have soles akin to athletic shoes, a breathable and somewhat stretchy cotton toe covering and, of course, the laces can be tied loosely or tighter if you need more stability. They’re not as polished as a strappy heel or stiletto, but Dr. Bahlani stresses that pregnant women should avoid things “like stilettos without support” because “they cause the pelvis to tilt forward, thereby affecting posture” and causing contraction “of the pelvic floor for long periods of time, which can ultimately exacerbate things like urinary frequency or pelvic pain,” as well as bladder pressure.
Best Winter Shoes For Pregnancy
A Cozy Boot Perfect For Nesting And Postpartum
Amazon
Ugg Classic Mini II Boot
Many pregnant moms I spoke with suggested Ugg boots for pregnancy, especially during the colder months or around the house. While they don’t offer the most support and certainly won’t keep your feet cool, they’re comfortable, cozy and fit large enough to accommodate the changes your feet are going through. And they’re equally as ideal for nurturing yourself postpartum when there’s not always time to carefully dress yourself before running out of the house to pick up an older kid or restock your diaper supplies: They’re easy to toss on and just go without spending time fussing with laces.
A great deal of testing and research goes into each Forbes Vetted story. Our writers are experts in their categories—in this case, maternity fashion and baby gear—and have access to professionals, brands and information that help them curate accurate and thorough best lists. In addition to gathering insight from doctors, personal experience and interviews with real moms went into this story. This story was written while I, the author, was 8.5 months pregnant, so I tested shoes personally. I also spoke with three podiatrists and two OB/GYNs to help formulate my list of potential best pregnancy shoes.
To ensure this list is kept up to date and includes picks that are truly the best, this article is updated regularly. It was most recently updated in March 2024.
How We Chose Best Pregnancy Shoes
I selected shoes based on the ideal criteria shared with me by the experts I interviewed, as well as my personal firsthand testing experience and notes. I looked for specific features, such as arch support, adjustable fits and ideal construction for pregnant folks, including top-notch treads, roomy toe boxes and slip-on options.
The podiatrists offered insight into what sort of support, construction and fit would be best, while the OB/GYNs spoke more to comfort, pelvic floor support and overall safety. Once the interviews concluded, I tested the shoes on this list that weren’t already wardrobe staples and consulted pregnant friends, fellow moms and online reviews to ensure accuracy.
What Shoes Are Best During Pregnancy?
There are a wide variety of shoes that are well-suited to pregnancy, no matter what your style or day-to-day life is like. Overall, however, there are a couple of things to look for. “During pregnancy, it's important to prioritize comfort and support when choosing shoes,” says Dr. Janine Ferrigno-Taddeo, a podiatrist and expert consultant at Aetrex.
She says shoes should provide “good arch support and cushioning to alleviate any foot or back pain associated with pregnancy,” and should be wide and adjustable “to accommodate for any swelling in the feet and ankles.” She also suggests that flat shoes or those with a low heel are best so you can easily “maintain balance and stability, as pregnancy can affect your center of gravity.” Our top pick overall that meets this criteria is the Hoka Clifton 9.
What Shoes Should You Avoid While Pregnant?
Optimally, you’ll avoid anything that doesn’t feel comfortable or stable. But when it comes to specifics, Dr. Pledger has some guidelines. “I generally recommend pregnant women avoid shoes with narrow toe boxes, high heels and rigid soles,” he says.
Why? Well, “narrow toe boxes can compress the toes and contribute to issues like bunions or ingrown toenails. High heels can compromise balance and put excessive strain on the feet and lower back, and rigid soles can limit the foot's natural range of motion and flexibility, potentially causing discomfort or pain,” he explains.
He also notes that pregnant women should avoid overly tight shoes, which “can impede circulation and exacerbate swelling or discomfort.” Adjustable shoes, like ones with laces or straps can help customize your fit. Dr. Ferrigno-Taddeo adds that pointed toes and loose-fitting shoes are a no-go and Dr. Bahlani adds that “flip flops during pregnancy or shoes without a back strap...[can lead] to more tension within the pelvic floor.”
What Are The Best Shoes To Wear For Pregnancy Swelling?
Swelling is an unfortunate, but normal side effect of pregnancy. While the right shoes won’t necessarily solve the problem, they can help you feel more comfortable. Dr. Ferrigno-Taddeo suggests “wide and adjustable shoes with elastic material [that] can accommodate for swelling and provide a customizable fit. Also, breathable materials, like mesh or soft leather allow for airflow and excessive moisture buildup.” In short, pretty much all the shoes we’ve included on this list are suitable for pregnancy swelling.
Should You Buy Shoes While Pregnant?
This really depends on personal preference, budget and needs. However, many pregnant women do find adding a pair of shoes or two can help make pregnancy more comfortable. “A common symptom many expecting mothers experience during pregnancy is swelling of the hands, feet and ankles,” says Dr. Ferrigno-Taddeo. “As a result, shoes that may have been comfortable previously may now be uncomfortable. It is perfectly fine to buy shoes that accommodate the swelling, as you should prioritize your own comfort and health.”
To ensure a proper fit, she suggests shopping later in the day when your feet are likely to be more swollen and, again, prioritizing comfort and support and optimally finding something that can be adjusted.
