Merrell, Zappos, Hoka, Chaco — comfortable shoes are up to 50% off for Memorial Day weekend. When it comes to comfortable footwear, the same brands keep appearing: Merrell, Hoka, New Balance, Brooks. These household names are known for supportive designs perfected over decades of shoe-making, and the expertise and technology behind them don't come cheap. That's why it's smart to watch for markdowns on popular styles.
Now is a great time to browse footwear sales on brands that prioritize comfort. Through May 25th, many favorite shoes are heavily discounted. We've curated a list of options worth considering. If you want to go about your day without blisters or arch pain, there's something for you — and it won't be full price.
1. Merrell Moab Hiking Shoe (25% off)
Merrell's classic Moab hiking shoe needs no introduction. Travel journalist James Barrett won't hike in any other boot, and over-50 HuffPost reader Ruth Dubinsky Heffes loves the 'strong bottoms for rock balancing.' These ultra-popular, sturdy shoes are on rare sale now for men and women at multiple retailers. $104 at REI (regularly $140), $105 at Zappos (regularly $140), $104+ at Merrell (regularly $140).
2. Hoka Styles (20-45% off)
Once Hokas go on sale, inventory is hard to find. But if you like bouncy, responsive cushioning, check retailers with marked-down stock. Zappos has Clifton 10 and Bondi 9 for women, and the unisex Ora recovery slide starts at $33 on Hoka's site — a 45% cut. The trail-friendly Challenger 8 sneaker is 20% off with plentiful sizes. Shop sale at Hoka and Zappos.
3. Vionic Flexible Flats
Vionic's arch-hugging, supportive designs are great for all-day comfort. These all-purpose flats feature a non-crushing 'squoval' toe and built-in orthotic soles that can help treat heel pain. Available in several colors, soft leather or suede. One reviewer says: 'These flats are great! The squared off toe makes them feel like a grown-up ballet flat. The leather is super soft and flexible, almost like wearing a slipper. The arch support is good for a low profile flat.' $95+ at Vionic (regularly $135).
4. K-Swiss Tennis Shoes (15% off)
Reviewer Herb Covey has worn K-Swiss court shoes for over a decade, praising their structural soundness, durability, and support. With a dense-but-flexible outsole and added arch support, they're designed for tennis and pickleball. $100 at Amazon (regularly $115).
5. Merrell Jungle Moc (up to 34% off)
Merrell's cult-favorite Jungle Mocs earned a HuffPost Shopping Award for the second year. They're durable, comfortable, supportive, and easy to slip on, now a gorpcore staple. HuffPost editor Kevin Cortez owned four pairs at once, calling them 'probably the most comfortable slip-ons I've ever worn.' They're great for lace-free convenience, with stretchy panels for easy on/off. One reviewer replaced a pair they'd had for 9 years. Women's sizes 5-11, men's 7-13. $73+ at Merrell (regularly $110), $77+ at Amazon and Zappos.
6. Naturalizer Flats
These flats have built-in arch support and Naturalizer's Contour+ technology with a cushy sole anatomically sculpted to follow foot contours. A reviewer with plantar fasciitis says: 'These are very supportive, durable, fit perfectly, and don't make my feet hurt. I can easily wear them with an orthotic or without. Highly recommend.' $55+ at Amazon (typically $79), $83 at Naturalizer (list $99).
7. New Balance 574 Sneakers (up to 35% off)
New Balance's classic unisex 574 sneaker combines timeless style with comfort, available in many color combos. Prices vary by retailer. $65+ at Zappos (regularly $100), $65+ at Amazon (regularly $100), $60+ at Dick's Sporting Goods (regularly $100).
8. Reebok Princess Walking Sneakers (20% off)
Reebok's 'Princess' trainers are a perennial favorite with foam padding, terrycloth liner, and rubber outsole. Over 43,000 reviews from customers buying the same style for nearly 40 years. $40 at Amazon (regularly $50).
9. Project Cloud Birkenstock Boston Lookalikes (up to 20% off)
Project Cloud's version stands out with reviews praising great value and out-of-the-box comfort. Available in many colors, women's sizes 5.5-12. $36 at Amazon (typically $45).
10. Clarks Breeze Sea Flip-Flops (20% off)
These sandals have a classic design and EVA foam footbed with more support than typical flip-flops. At Zappos, they boast a 5-star rating with over 3,000 reviews. One reviewer with multiple physical disabilities calls them a go-to. $48 at Zappos (regularly $60), $46+ at Amazon (regularly $60).
11. K-Swiss 'Dad Shoes' (25% off)
These self-described 'dad shoes' blend comfort and style with an all-leather upper, classic tennis styling, sturdy treaded outsole, and lightweight cushioned midsole. $52 at Amazon (regularly $70).
12. Chaco Z/1 Sandals (up to 25% off)
These classic outdoor sandals have rock-solid molded polyurethane soles and adjustable Z-shaped straps for a secure fit. Wildland Trekking's marketing director recommends them for superior arch support. Women's: $77 at Amazon (regularly $100). Men's: $80 at Chaco (regularly $100).
13. Keen Whisper Lattice Sandals (25% off)
Professional dog walker Kimberley Reckles recommends these for great support and secure fit. They have stretchy criss-cross straps and lightweight foam cushioning. Available in four colorways, women's sizes 5-12. $90 at Amazon and Keen (regularly $120).
14. Adidas Handball Spezial Sneakers (up to 50% off)
Court-style Adidas sneakers have exploded in popularity. The classic Handball Spezial shoe comes in 13 colors on sale for under $90 at Dick's Sporting Goods. They have a supportive gum sole for excellent traction. $55+ at Dick's and Foot Locker (regularly $110).
15. Soft Leather Mary Jane Ballet Flats
These flats feature a classic adjustable buckle, high-quality soft leather, and subtle rubber soles. Reviewers call them comfy, versatile, and stylish. One says: 'These ballet flats are adorable! They're so comfortable and perfect for everyday wear.' $23+ at Amazon.
16. Danner Mountain 600 Leaf Boots (up to 55% off)
HuffPost contributor Jamie Davis Smith calls these boots a problem-solving unicorn. They are water-resistant, have Vibram soles with deep treads, and are lightweight and waterproof. They replace rain boots, snow boots, and hiking boots. Women's sizes 5-11, men's 7-15. Women's: $119+ at Amazon (regularly $220). Men's: $100+ at Amazon (regularly $220).
17. Crocs Classic Crafted Shoe
Enjoy the breezy versatility of canvas with the easy on-off and waterproof durability of a Crocs clog. Unlike the classic clog, this one has no holes on the shoe itself. Available in solid colors and floral patterns, women's sizes 4-15. Classic Crocs are also 30% off. $45+ at Zappos and Crocs (regularly $60).
18. Suede-Like Slippers (37% off)
These moccasin-style slippers have a faux-suede upper and your choice of fleece or faux-shearling lining. Perfect for walks or campfires. $23 at Amazon (regularly $37).
19. Cole Haan Fisherman Sandals
These leather fisherman sandals come in three colors, including cheerful coral, with Cole Haan's signature comfort. The flexible sole has EVA foam and bouncy polyurethane. $100 at Cole Haan (regularly $140).
20. Cole Haan Leather Court Sneaker (Men's)
This classic court sneaker gets a sumptuous redesign with leather, a supportive cup sole, and cushioned footbed. $120 at Cole Haan (regularly $160).
21. Puma Classic Sneaker (25% off)
Reviewer Marissa says: 'They're one of the most comfortable sneakers I've worn. It honestly feels like walking on air.' Some note they run small, so consider sizing up. $62 at Amazon (typically $80).
