The Best Shoes for Pregnancy 2024

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.

What to look for in the best shoes for pregnancy

Comfort is key when finding the perfect shoes to wear all nine months. And ample support for feet and ankles is the start.

“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!

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.

“Avoid flip flops and flats with no support, especially towards the end of pregnancy.”

Best overall

Naturalizer Morrison Lace Up Casual Sneaker

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.

Pros

• 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

Cons

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

Best sandals

CUSHIONAIRE Luna Cork Footbed Sandal

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.

These are our favorite pregnancy shoes for everyday summer wear.

Pros

• 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

Cons

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

Best for going out

MUSSHOE Mules

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 durable stretch and flexible soles. Like a reliable friend, these mules will be your side to witness the best moments out on the town.

Pros

• 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)
• Uuse these for more than just maternity shoes
• Added comfort and support

Cons

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

Best sneaker

TRETORN Rawlins Casual Lace-Up Sneakers

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.

Pros

• 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

Cons

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

Best wedge

DREAM PAIRS Elastic Ankle Strap Espadrilles

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.

Pros

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

Cons

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

Best arch support

OrthoComfoot Comfy Platform Sneakers

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. These are ideal for every stage of pregnancy, including postpartum.

Pros

• 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 customized fit
• Comfortable toe boxes

Cons

• Arch may be too extreme depending on your needs

Best for fitness

Brooks Ghost 14 Neutral Running Shoe

Attention gym heads: This one’s for you. These sneakers give you a smooth ride no matter what type of fitness you're after. Designed with peak cushioning technology, you’ll feel just the right amount of support without losing durability.

Whether you’re lightly running, walking or heading to a dance fitness class, there's comfort in every stylish step.

Pros

• 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
• Foot and ankle support

Cons

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