Best Shoes for Walking Around NYC

The Best Shoes for Walking Around NYC

Comfortable Sneakers

Hands down, the number one shoe you need for walking around NYC is a pair of super comfortable sneakers. While chunky, fashion-forward sneakers and nostalgic styles are currently trending, avoid wearing true athletic running shoes unless they’re intentionally styled as part of your outfit. Tourists often stand out in overly sporty sneakers paired with casual sightseeing clothes, whereas NYC locals opt for sleek, minimalist designs or sneakers that feel polished yet practical.

Over the last several years of NYC living, my sneaker collection has doubled. I wear sneakers everywhere in New York City. In the summer, my uniform consists of a pair of sneakers with a sundress. In fall or spring, jeans and sneakers are on repeat for me. When it’s cold in the winter, I add a pair of thick socks to keep my feet warm.

If you’re limited on suitcase space for your NYC trip, prioritize classic white sneakers. They’re endlessly versatile, and work with jeans, dresses, and even tailored pieces for that effortless city-chic look. A neutral color sneaker also works, and sneakers serve as great walking shoes for travel and long sightseeing days because you get the arch support of traditional sneakers while still looking stylish.

I recommend leather sneakers because leather is much easier to clean than fabric. If you’re visiting in fall or winter, your feet will be warmer in leather sneakers when it’s cold. Plus, if you get stuck in rain or snow, the water won’t seep through leather sneakers as easily as cloth sneakers.

I am absolutely obsessed with Adidas Samba sneakers (I now own them in five colors), but other sneaker favorites include Veja sneakers, my New Balance 990s, and my New Balance 9060s.

Loafers or Flats

If I’m going to be out all day in the city but don’t want to wear sneakers, I always grab a pair of loafers or flats.

Both are just as comfortable as sneakers, but add a more polished appeal to your outfit. I wear loafers and flats with jeans, trousers, and even skirts and dresses. And, since these shoes are both less casual than sneakers, you can wear them to a business meeting, out to lunch, and even to dinner. See how you can style loafers here.

Flat Sandals with a Strap Around the Heel

If your feet get hot quickly and/or the thought of wearing closed-toe shoes in 80 degrees plus 80% humidity scares you, I get it. Wear the sandals.

However, if you’re going to wear sandals walking all day in NYC, I highly recommend a pair with a back strap that goes around your heel. Slide sandals can slip off your feet, and if you plan on walking a lot or taking the subway you’ll have peace of mind that your shoes won’t accidentally get clipped by someone walking behind you.

Unless I’m walking around NYC locally, a sandal with a strap around the heel allows me to be a bit more comfortable, and it’s one less thing to worry about.

My only caveat to “no slides on the subway” is Birkenstocks. I love wearing my Birkenstock sandals in NYC, and since the footbed has a raised edge, your foot is less likely to slip out of the shoe. Arizona is my favorite Birkenstock sandal style for a quick walk to my local coffee shop or if I need to run errands a few subway stops from my apartment.

Low Heels or Block Heels

Unless you’re walking from a taxi straight inside to your destination, I really don’t recommend high heels for NYC. Despite my best efforts to live out my Carrie Bradshaw dreams, the stiletto in the city life is not for me.

More practical, high heel alternatives include the following:

• A low block heel (this style works for date night and important business meetings)
• Low-heeled strappy sandals (more comfy than a higher heel, with the same SJP vibes)
• A block-heel sandal (a wardrobe staple, and you can wear day or night)

Leather Ankle Boots

For a dressier option during cooler weather, you can’t beat a chic ankle boot.

I typically prefer leather due to its general waterproof nature since weather in the city can be flaky, but these tan boots have been my most worn ankle boots for a couple of years now.

Waterproof Boots For Snow and Inclement Weather

I try to reserve my snow boots exclusively for heavy snow, blizzards, and extremely cold winter weather. However, walking through snow and slush is inevitable in NYC. Investing in the right shoes for this weather is crucial. 

Traditional snow boots can be clunky to walk in. And when you’re trying to meet friends for dinner or brunch, they’re also not the cutest. 

Instead, opt for a durable, high-quality waterproof boot that can stand up to the elements and still look good. These are typically lace-up hiker and combat boots, or pull-on lug sole boots. 

If you’re visiting New York City in the winter, and need cold weather wardrobe pieces, I wrote this blog post with my favorite cold weather essentials for NYC winters.

You really don’t need a ton of shoes to walk around NYC, you just need the right ones!

White classic sneakers work year-round and can double up as an airport travel shoe. In the height of summer, find sandals with heel straps to avoid your foot from slipping. In the fall and winter, you can’t go wrong with a black leather ankle boot. Happy walking!

other posts you may like:

• NYC Winter Packing List
• What to wear in NYC in Spring
• What to Wear in NYC in Summer
• What to Wear in NYC in Fall