I Live in NY and Vouch for These Comfortable and Cute Shoes for Walking

There are two inescapable realities about New York that I’ve come to reluctantly accept over the last four years of living here: the weather and the walking. Despite my most valiant efforts to map out my day so I avoid any potentially disastrous downpours or exponentially long commutes, it’s eventually going to happen. Rain will happen. Subway delays will happen. It all will happen at some point. Rather than wallow in my sorrow, I’ve chosen a less dramatic route and invested in footwear that helps me combat these woeful environmental situations.

Of course, the best pair of shoes for looking cute while staying comfortable depends on which season we’re talking about. If it’s winter, you’re going to be needing footwear that stands up to the elements. But because it’s the end of summer and we’re in that weird time when it’s too late to buy a pair of warm-weather sandals but too early to go full thigh-high boots vibes, I thought I’d share some options that toe the line between both summer and fall. Continue ahead to shop the shoes I vouch for when it comes to commuting around New York City.

Aside from the fact that I live for a croc-effect texture, and these happen to be in a glorious shade of oxblood, the cozy platform and slingback strap on these sandals all come together to create a sleek and stylish pair of sandals you can dress up or down.

I’ve been wearing Veja’s sneakers for the last four to five years, and they’ve consistently proven to be comfortable and versatile (the true mark of an investment-worthy pair of kicks).

An easy pair of cowboy boots is a comfortable, walkable alternative to heeled booties. Plus, they feel very of the moment right now.

I can’t resist a pair of designer flats, HBU?

I feel like I’m walking on clouds when I wear these sporty sandals. They may be on the so-called "uglier" side of the spectrum, but I happen to think they look oh-so-cool worn with a floral frock.

I’d love to wear solely sneakers and sandals, sometimes a scenario calls for a pair of heels. If you find yourself in a similar situation and walking is inevitable, go with this pair.

You really can’t go wrong with a pair of classic ballet flats, especially if you need to walk further than to your car and back.

While summer months are winding down, in New York City, the heat will probably last well into October, which is why this pair of square-toe sandals will serve me well.

Penny loafers are my all-time favorite style of flats, and this pair, in particular, is wildly comfortable.

My Nike sneakers of choice are Air Max thanks to their cool colorways and bouncy silhouette.

These are probably the most comfortable pair of sandals I’ve ever owned. Though the woven texture doesn’t bode well in an unexpected NYC summer rainstorm, all other occasions are well-suited.

When it comes to heels and walking, clogs have always topped my list as acceptable options. Right now, I’m loving this soft pink pair.

I invested in a pair of low-rise Dr. Martens last winter, and they’ve proven to be one of my favorite pairs of walking shoes due to their versatility and waterproof texture.

These babouches mold to your feet in the best way possible and also happen to look super chic when worn with suiting separates.

Ballet slippers but make it moody, right?

The only kind of flip flop you’ll find me in.

A pair of super simple ballet flats with a pointed toe and sleek noir hue is arguably a footwear option that should be in every NYC commuter’s closet.

While I haven’t started wearing my ankle boots just yet (it’s 85 degrees today, after all), these Chelseas from Everlane are slowly creeping out from the corners of my wardrobe—and I’m thrilled about it.

I recently discovered this shoe brand, and believe me when I say these are heels you can wear all day. The construction is impeccably executed, and the leather is supple and stretches with your foot shape.

Up Next: These are 16 of the best walking shoes for women.

Source: Who What Wear – Nicole Kliest