As for a pro tip? Daughtry notes that many women are not aware of the fact that they can actually wear men’s shoes if they need more room (hi, swelling!). “The main difference between most men’s and women’s shoes, especially running shoes, is the shoe width and shape,” she says.
To help you find a great pair of sneakers when you’re pregnant, we spoke with an expert to learn more about her top picks for different activities, budgets, and style preferences. But, before we get carried away, we’ll break down exactly what to consider before buying a pair.
What To Consider
Fit/Comfortability
During pregnancy, your feet will swell due to fluid retention and the extra weight your body is carrying, and finding shoes that accommodate these changes is crucial. As a rule of thumb, be sure to look for sneakers with a roomy toe box so your feet can spread comfortably and avoid any pinching or discomfort. Plus, many women notice that their foot size changes during pregnancy, so it’s best to size up or pick shoes with adjustable features like laces or Velcro straps.
In addition to size and adjustability, materials are important when it comes to total comfort. Breathable materials like mesh or knit fabrics help keep your feet cool and prevent excess sweating, which can be common during pregnancy. Opting for slip-on designs can also be a practical choice since bending over to tie shoes becomes more challenging as your bump gets bigger.
Cushioning/Shock Absorption
Want to reduce the impact on your feet and joints during pregnancy? Look for shoes with good cushioning and shock absorption. “When walking, the force on your feet and ankles is five times your body weight, so shoe support and shock absorption are important components to footwear,” explains Daughtry. As your body weight increases, the added pressure on your feet can cause serious discomfort, fatigue, and pain in your knees and lower back. Sneakers with sufficient cushioning—especially in the midsole and heel areas—help absorb the shock from each step, which softens the impact, she says.
To find out if a shoe has enough cushioning while shopping, look for details in the description with mentions of “plush,” “max cushioning,” or “extra soft” for high-cushioning options. Terms like “responsive,” “balanced,” and “moderate cushioning” are ideal to spot when it comes to finding medium-cushion options. You can also check the midsole material—shoes with thicker foam, gel, or air-filled midsoles typically provide more cushioning. If you’re shopping in-store, press your thumb into the midsole to feel its softness and depth; high-cushion shoes will feel noticeably softer and more compressible than medium-cushion ones.
Arch Support
“With more weight on your body (and subsequently the feet), your feet will naturally flatten more and put stress on the plantar fascia, the ligament on the bottom of the foot that assists with arch support,” says Daughtry. To avoid that, look for shoes with built-in arch support or orthotic-friendly designs where you can add custom inserts. Proper arch support not only reduces foot fatigue, but also alleviates pressure on your knees, hips, and back.
When shopping, look for shoes with medium arch support or high arch support, depending on your arch. Shoes with medium arch support are designed for people with a neutral foot arch, while high arch support offers extra structure for those with more pronounced arches. To spot the right shoe for your needs, look for specific features like “contoured insoles” or “arch cushioning.”
How We Chose
First, we tapped two foot experts to get their recommendations for comfortable, reliable shoes for pregnancy Then, we combed through our own database of testing notes from our hands-on experience with hundreds of shoe styles and brands to cross-reference their picks to align on options to with the ideal mix of comfortability, arch support, and cushioning to support a growing bump.
Keep reading to see our top picks, no matter how far along in your pregnancy you might be.
“/>
Best Sneaker for Pregnancy Overall
Brooks Adrenaline GTS 23
Pros
- Cushioned heel that keeps foot secure
- Easy to slip into
- Made with recycled materials
Cons
- Knit material can trap dirt
Coming in as the best of the best is the Brooks Adrenaline GTS 23 sneaker. Equal parts comfortable, supportive, and stable, this sneaker won the top spot because it has everything you need as your body undergoes some major changes. Known for its reliable cushioning, this shoe features Brooks’ signature DNA LOFT midsole, which offers soft yet responsive cushioning, making every step light and comfortable. (This is especially great during pregnancy when the added weight can amp up the pressure on your feet and joints).
According to Jeffrey S. Hurless, DPM, the Brooks Adrenaline has a good reputation, thanks to its innovative design. “Its patented Guide Rail support system promotes proper foot alignment [thanks to advanced cushioning] which is crucial during pregnancy as weight shifts can affect balance,” he says. “The firm heel counter helps stabilize the rear foot, providing added security.” And, just when you thought it couldn’t get any better, the adjustable lacing accommodates changes in foot size or swelling, a common issue for expecting mothers, while the cushioned insole offers enhanced comfort to support them throughout their day.” Plus, it comes in over 10 colors as well as a wide range of sizes and widths. The one thing we will note is that the knit material can trap dirt, so be sure not to wear these on dusty trails.
Read More: Best Wide Shoes for Women
| Sizes | 5—13 |
|---|---|
| Fit | Narrow, Medium, Wide, Extra Wide |
| Colorways | 13 |
Best Slip-On Sneaker for Pregnancy
Orthofeet Knit Kita Hands-Free Sneaker
Pros
- Smart heel design keeps them from slipping off
- Includes premium orthotic insole and arch booster
- Designed with wide toe-box
Cons
- Can run small, so best to size up
We’ve gotta say, Orthofeet knows what it’s doing when it comes to ultra-comfortable shoes. This Knit Kita Hands-Free Sneaker is one of our go-to’s, especially when it comes to slip-on sneakers. For starters, it comes in multiple width options—Regular, Wide, and Extra Wide—making it a great choice for expecting moms. What’s more, Daughtry notes that it has a slip-resistant sole, extra depth to accommodate swelling and sturdy arch support. “The hands-free option is a bonus to this shoe, which also offers water-repellent stretch fabric and a wide toe box,” she adds. In terms of the so-called ‘hands-free’ design, this is great for pregnant women since they can easily slip their foot in and out without having to bend down. And, thanks to the shoe’s spacious design, you can say goodbye to pinching and discomfort as your feet swell throughout pregnancy.
It’s worth pointing out that these can run a bit small, so we suggest sizing up. Other than that, you’re sure to love these easy-to-slip-into kicks.
| Sizes | 5—12 |
|---|---|
| Fit | Normal, Wide, Extra Wide |
| Colorways | 7 |
Best Everyday Wear Sneaker for Pregnancy
Adidas Gazelle Bold Shoes
Pros
- Comfortable and lightweight
- Platform for height
- Comes in tons of colors
Cons
- Does not come in Wide options
For an everyday shoe, expecting mothers can’t go wrong with a pair of these adorable Adidas kicks. “I appreciate the Adidas Gazelle Bold for its extended lacing system, which provides exceptional adjustability to suit various foot shapes and sizes,” says Hurless, who explains that this is especially useful during pregnancy when swelling of the feet can occur. “The thicker sole enhances stability and support, making them an ideal choice for expecting mothers.” To add, this shoe has a platform sole that offers a bit of height, which can help alleviate some pressure on the lower back since it helps add more balanced posture and reduces strain on the spine and lower body. Plus, we like that the lightweight design makes this shoe easy to wear for extended periods, meaning your feet will stay comfortable throughout the day.
As for the cherry on top, this shoe has a timeless design, which makes them super versatile. The suede upper adds a touch of sophistication, while the sturdy construction means they’re nice and durable. With a range of colors to choose from, this sneaker can blend into any wardrobe. Its only downfall is that it does not come in Wide options, which can be a shame for those with wide feet.
| Sizes | 5—11 |
|---|---|
| Fit | Normal |
| Colorways | 20 |
Best Budget Sneaker for Pregnancy
Allbirds Women’s Couriers
Pros
- Made with breathable materials then enhance ventilation
- Has foam midsole for extra comfort
- Easy to clean and wash
Cons
- Not easy to slip into, must untie laces
We can’t deny it: We’ve always been fans of Allbirds. However, these kicks in particular are one of our favorite pairs—especially when it comes to finding supportive shoes during pregnancy without breaking the bank. This pair of Couriers has a great combination of comfort and support, all at an accessible price point. Known for its lightweight design and eco-friendly materials, this sneaker has a breathable eucalyptus tree fiber material that helps regulate temperature, making it perfect for swollen feet that need extra room and ventilation. (So long, sweaty feet.) Plus, the soft, flexible construction allows your feet to expand comfortably throughout the day, while the lace-up design gives you a secure (yet adjustable!) fit.
However, what makes this shoe particularly ideal for pregnancy is its cushioning and arch support. The foam midsole has just the right amount of shock absorption, which helps relieve pressure from the joints and reduce foot fatigue. Not to mention, the removable insole has pretty good arch support, but more can be added with custom orthotics if needed. Oh, and did we mention the price? Yeah, that’ll be hard to beat. We will note that since these aren’t slip-ons, you’ll have to untie the laces to get into them, so be sure to keep this in mind as your bump gets bigger.
Read More: One Allbirds Die-Hard Tries The Latest Offering: The New Tree Glider
| Sizes | 5—11 |
|---|---|
| Fit | Normal |
| Colorways | 8 |
Best Walking and Running Sneaker for Pregnancy
Hoka Bondi 8
Pros
- Firm yet supportive cushioning
- Lightweight, resilient foam
- Made with recycled materials
Cons
- The rubber outsole can be easily scuffed
We previously named the Hoka Bondi 8 sneaker the Best Wide Shoe (you can read more about wide shoes right here), which is why we had to include it in this list. As your feet change during pregnancy, comfort, roominess, and support become more important than ever, and this shoe delivers all three. With its plush cushioning and signature thick midsole, this shoe goes above and beyond in terms of shock absorption, which is needed when it comes to reducing the strain on your feet and joints as your body carries extra weight. Its soft yet supportive cushioning offers a smooth, balanced stride, making it perfect for long walks, light runs, or all-day wear.
The shoe’s even weight distribution also helps minimize the risk of developing common pregnancy-related foot conditions like plantar fasciitis (a common condition that occurs when the tissue running along the bottom of the foot becomes inflamed, which can lead to sharp heel pain) or joint pain. We also like that this shoe comes in both Regular and Wide options, which means you can find the best fit for your changing feet. The Wide option is particularly helpful for women experiencing foot swelling since it offers more room in the toe box, allowing your feet to feel comfortable without being cramped. While the rubber outsole may get scuffed on rough terrain, this sneaker is a reliable, comfortable choice for expecting moms.
Read More: Best Hoka Walking Shoes
| Sizes | 5—12 |
|---|---|
| Fit | Regular, Wide |
| Colorways | 20+ |
Best Hiking Shoe
Kizik Women’s Wasatch Mid
Pros
- Bouncy, supportive midsole
- Grippy outsole
- Slip-on technology
Cons
- Runs a half-size small
Pregnancy shouldn’t keep you from getting outside. If you’re an avid hiker, opt for these hands-free boots from Kizik, our favorite step-in hikinh shoes that require zero bending over. When you step into it, the heel pushes down, springs back, and stays comfortably in place during wear—no tying or untying needed.
And, when you’re on-the-go, whether you’re hitting the streets or the trail, you never have to worry about a lack of support in these kicks. They have a super bouncy, supportive midsole and a sturdy full-rubber outsole that gives you grip you can actually feel.
We love that this shoe comes in both a standard and wide fit option, making it great for those with wider feet or bunions. However, we do find that these run on the smaller side, so we recommend opting for a half-size bigger.
| Sizes | 6—13 |
|---|---|
| Fit | Standard, Wide |
| Colorways | 4 |
Meet The Experts
- Elizabeth Daughtry, DPM, FACFAS, is a board-certified podiatrist and foot surgeon in North Carolina.
- Jeffrey S. Hurless, DPM, is a board-certified podiatrist and foot and ankle surgeon in Tennessee.
Lauren Harano is a New York-based writer, editor, and journalist covering commerce, beauty, travel, food, and lifestyle topics. She has been in the industry for over 7 years, and her work can be found in various publications including Cosmopolitan, Glamour, Harper’s Bazaar, Hotels Above Par, Editorialist, Esquire, and InStyle. When she’s not writing or interviewing sources, Lauren can be found testing the latest beauty products, planning her next vacation, and buying clothes she definitely does not need.
Watch Next
Advertisement – Continue Reading Below
Advertisement – Continue Reading Below
Advertisement – Continue Reading Below
