Best Shoes for Pregnancy – Today’s Parent

Whether you’re one month pregnant or eight months pregnant, it’s important to be comfortable from head to toe. But we get it: You’re carrying a new life, but you want to still look cute and feel cute. Finding the best shoes for pregnancy —and post-partum—is important.

Comfort is key when finding the perfect shoes to wear all nine months. Your body is going through so many changes—the last thing you want is another way to feel uncomfortable.

“Pregnancy affects the feet in several ways,” says certified podiatrist Dr. Anne Sharkey. “One [way] is through the hormone relaxin which is released to allow for expansion of the pelvis to make room for the growing baby.”

It’s important to know that this hormone also affects all your other joints, which, combined with the weight gain and increased pressure on the feet results in increased length and width of your feet and a lowered arch height. Not only is a baby growing inside of you, but your feet can also grow—imagine that!

For mommies-to-be, Sharkey notes, “Supporting your feet as your body goes through these changes is of utmost importance in protecting your arch and reducing joint discomfort.” When searching for your dream pregnancy kicks, she suggests looking for shoes that fit well, accommodate swelling and have comfy arch support.

“For any extended period of walking, athletic shoes are best. Choosing an athletic shoe is good. That’s because the laces can be adjusted to account for swelling and the arch will be well supported,” Dr. Sharkey explains.

One thing to avoid? “Flip flops and flats with little to no support or cushioning, especially towards the end of pregnancy.”

Now that you’ve got the lowdown on what to look for, here are 14 pairs from cushy running shoes to cloud-like strappy sandals, that will bring your pregnancy comfort to the highest level.

Comfort is key with a pair of chich sneakers from Naturalizer. Made of 100% cotton, these athleisure shoes are designed to throw on in a matter of seconds. With a breathable soft lining and a protective material that molds to your foot over time.

The best part? It features a contoured footbed with arch support and specialized comfort technology for extra cushioning.

• Easy to slip on and off
• Ideal for many occasions
• Breathable material, made of 100% cotton
• Features Contour+ technology for extra support
• Available in a variety of colors
• Way more comfortable than high heels
• Expanded shoe size offerings

• Takes some time to effectively mold to your foot, we recommend wearing them around your home to break them in!

Ballet flats are on-trend, and we’ve found a pair for a fantastic price. We think these are perfect for driving, walking and pregnancy announcement photos.

These flats form to your feet upon first wear, making them ultra-comfy with every step you take. For portability, they’re easy to fold up and throw into your bag. There’s extra padding at the back of the shoes which protects your ankle from being rubbed.

• Available in a mix of neutral and fun colors
• Easy to clean and carry around
• An elasticized topline allows you to adjust the tightness of the flats to fit your foot better

• Not an ideal fit for wider feet, save for the first trimester

Say hello to your new favorite pair of summer sandals. Available in neutral colors that let your colorful summer dresses shine, you’ll want them in every shade. Made with 100% genuine suede and an ultra-flexible cork footbed, these chic sandals easily form the shape of your foot. Bonus points for the premium traction design which is meant to keep the sandals long-lasting.

• Vegan leather upper, start small with your environmental impact!
• The cork footbed is extremely flexible for everyday wear
• Suede insoles form a perfect contour of the foot after being worn in
• Neutral colors are perfect for warm weather!
• Supportive room to grow for swollen feet

• Minimal arch support, better for the earlier months of pregnancy

Walking on a dream—thanks to these strappy sandals. Made with a soft faux sheepskin lining and upper, you’ll instantly feel cute while maintaining comfort. A breathable latex insole promises worry-free all-day wear.

We love the grippy exterior sole that makes these luxe sandals ultra-durable in any weather conditions. For the most flattering look, the simple design features a slight heel for the perfect feminine moment.

• Versatile sandals, perfect for casual or dressy occasions
• Adjustable lace-up straps to fit your calf
• 4mm latex insole enforces lasting comfort and support
• Breathable sole that makes it easy to walk around

• The largest strap takes a handful of wears to properly mold to the foot

A going-out shoe doesn’t always mean a heel. Find beauty in an elegant flat that will impress both you and your future baby. Made of soft and breathable materials, these versatile minimalist mules are extremely comfortable, thanks to their durable elasticity and flexible soles. Like a reliable friend, these mules will be your side to witness the best moments out on the town.

• Tested to withstand up to 50,000 times of bending and stretching
• Soft and breathable textile lining
• Made of premium vegan materials that are skin-friendly and natural
• Available in various colors and textures (we love a faux snakeskin moment)
• You’ll definitely use these for more than just maternity shoes

• Not true to size, be sure to order a size up from your regular size

All-day comfort is the name of the game with these sneakers. Designed to be worn with or without socks (can you believe it?) Tretorn has nailed the ideal sneaker to kick it up! Using materials that are sustainable, lightweight and moisture-wicking, this soft yet stable shoe is perfect for just about anything—making it the ideal shoe to wear all year round.

• Versatile style easy to pair with any outfit
• Features an extra cushioned heel, allowing you to shop, walk and play all day long
• Wear with or without socks
• Available in a selection of neutral colors
• A favorite of pregnant people and those without little ones thanks to a sporty, stylish silhouette

• Runs small—be sure to order a size up for the ideal fit

Take the world by storm thanks to secure elastic straps and a heel height teetering a little over two inches. The classic closed round toe is suitable for everyday wear, relaxing on vacation and even attending your baby shower. The best part is the thick elastic strap, which supports the ankle and heel and allows you to feel secure with every step.

• Affordable price for wedges
• The elastic ankle strap is secure, allowing for a flexible fit
• 2-inch heel gives ultra-stability

• Not ideal for walking long distances, but would you ever wear wedges all day?

It’s time to add a chic slingback to your pregnancy shoe wardrobe. With a soft faux leather upper, a latex padded insole and a slip-resistant rubber sole, you will be beaming with happiness (and comfort) with every step. These 1970s-esqe pumps have a low heel, perfect for strutting around the office (pre-maternity leave).

And as your ankles expand, the adjustable ankle strap makes it easy to wear throughout your entire pregnancy.

• Impeccable traction
• Looks like an expensive leather shoe, but is vegan leather
• Perfect for dressing up a casual outfit
• Keeps feet and ankles supported
• Adjustable buckle closure allows you to wear it during pregnancy and after childbirth

• Only available in three neutral colors

Loafers are the ultimate cool-girl shoe. While some are rigid and uncomfortable, the best part about these non-slip chunky shoes is they will keep your feet protected all day long. Thanks to the soft inner lining and platform heel, you’ll be able to go from day to night in these beauties.

The slip-on design makes them easy to wear and take off, with no pain in sight—maybe a baby kick or two, though!

• Made of faux leather, don’t have to worry about treating it before first wear
• Non-slip, platform sole is ultra-comfy, yet trendy
• Suitable for all seasons
• Easy to clean
• Supportive of foot and ankle bones

• May seem narrow at first, but it takes a few wears to soften the faux leather

These slides live up to their name. With over 10,000 5-star reviews, you need to get your hands on a pair of cloud slippers, stat. Thanks to its lightweight material and additional height, it rivals other rubber slides on the market.

The interior of the slippers uses innovative technology. A raised diamond-shaped design and an anti-skid sole design make these casual frontrunners. Can you say ultra-comfort? You’ll feel like you’re walking on a cloud in no time.

• Double anti-slip = double safety
• Forms to your feet after a couple of wears
• Quick-drying durable material is flexible and easy to clean
• Available in a variety of colors

• Lack of arch support, but these slides mold your feet

Available in three different fun plaid patterns, these shoes are designed to provide excellent arch support. Featuring a durable and breathable canvas material, you can wear these sneakers all day. The star of the shoe is the orthopedic insoles which align your feet and reduce stress in various areas.

With an easy lace-up design and elevated platform, peak comfort is only a purchase away.

• On the pricier side, but worth it
• Provides incredible arch support
• Combination of canvas shoes and rubber soles creates the ultimate comfortable shoe
• Lace-up allows a customizable fit

• Arch may be too extreme depending on your needs

The 90s are calling! Channel your inner nostalgia with Skechers D’Lites. The legacy brand has always prioritized looking and feeling good, so these shoes are designed with comfort in mind, making them ideal for pregnancy.

With insoles made of air-cooled memory foam, and a padded collar and tongue, you’ll want to wear them all day, every day. The chic suede upper and stylish contrast stitching is a bonus.

• Innovative insole makes sneakers more breathable than traditional walking shoes
• Lightweight yet protective
• Skechers is a trusted brand for comfortable, cool sneakers

• Bottoms aren’t non-slip, be careful on slippery surfaces

Attention gym heads: This one’s for you. If you’re looking for a delightful new pair of running shoes or you’re looking to get active before labor, these sneakers will give you a smooth ride. Designed with peak cushioning technology, you’ll feel just the right amount of support without losing durability.

Whether you’re lightly running or going for a stroll, there will be comfort in every step.

• Ideal for road running, cross training, the gym or wherever you might want to take them!
• Very comfortable for all-day wear
• Provide neutral support and a balanced, soft running shoe base

• Order running shoes 1/2 to one size larger than your dress shoe

ICYMI: ​​Modern pregnancy is all about comfort. Poppy Barley’s take on one of the latest shoe trends is backed by unique technology. No break-in period is required, which is definitely a relief.

Wear these versatile flats with your favorite maternity dress or blue jeans and a tee. As if you weren’t convinced, the easy elastic strap will have you out the door quickly.

• Designed for all-day comfort
• High-density memory foam insole
• Ethically made in Mexico
• Vegetable-tanned, antimicrobial leather sock liner (no stains!)
• Comfortable toe boxes

• On the more expensive side of Mary Jane shoes, but these are totally worth it