If Your Sneakers Hurt, You’re Wearing the Wrong Ones—Here’s What to Get in 2025

Your sneakers should work for you, not against you. If your feet are aching by the end of the day, it’s not just normal wear and tear—it’s a clear sign you’re in the wrong shoes. But here is the good news: sneakers 2025 are changing the game, with brands doubling down on comfort, support, and durability. The right pair can make all the difference, whether you’re walking, running, or just standing for hours.

Adidas Adizero Aruku

Adidas is making a comeback in the comfort game with the Adizero Aruku, a lifestyle sneaker that uses Swirl Foam—their softest cushioning yet. Unlike Boost, which focused more on bounce, Swirl Foam leans into plush softness for a pillowy underfoot feel.  The rocker-shaped sole takes some getting used to, but once you adjust, it helps with smooth transitions when walking. If you want a sneaker with a retro-inspired mesh upper and a cushioned feel, this one is worth considering.

Nike Invincible 3

Nike’s Invincible line has been a go-to for max cushioning, and while the Invincible 3 is on its way out, it’s still one of the softest sneakers out there. ZoomX foam gives it a bouncy, shock-absorbing ride that feels incredible underfoot. The wider base adds some stability compared to earlier versions, but if you’re making sharp cuts while running, you might want to be cautious—this one’s built more for plushness than control. If you can get your hands on a pair before they disappear, you won’t regret it.

On Cloudmonster 2

Swiss brand On has been making waves with its CloudTec midsole, and the Cloud Monster 2 takes things up a notch with larger, more compressive pods. These offer a perfect balance between soft cushioning and forward propulsion, which is something both runners and daily walkers prefer. Unlike some ultra-soft sneakers that can feel too squishy, the Cloud Monster 2 provides a springy yet stable ride.

Puma MagMax Nitro

Puma may not be the first brand that comes to mind for max-cushion sneakers, but the Magmax Nitro proves they’re serious about comfort. With Nitro Foam in the midsole, it delivers a lightweight, responsive feel without losing plushness. Plus, the 46mm stack height makes it one of the tallest on this list, meaning there’s plenty of cushioning underfoot—perfect for long days on your feet.

Hoka Bondi 9

Hoka has always been a leader in max-cushion sneakers, and the Bondi 9 improves on an already soft model. The supercritical EVA midsole is lighter than previous versions, while still offering the same pillowy ride that Bondi fans love. A wide base and slight rocker design help promote smooth steps. This is an excellent option for those who need a stable yet cushioned sneaker.

ASICS GEL-Nimbus 27

For runners and casual wearers, the GEL-Nimbus 27 is one of ASICS’ most comfortable options yet. It combines FF Blast+ Eco foam with PureGEL technology, which gives it a soft, shock-absorbing ride without feeling overly mushy. The padded upper and heel collar also provide a snug yet breathable fit, which adds comfort and support throughout the day.

New Balance 1080 v14

New Balance consistently produces some of the most cushioned sneakers, and the Fresh Foam X 1080 v14 is no exception. The soft midsole paired with a breathable engineered mesh upper makes this an excellent choice for both running and everyday wear. It’s one of the more versatile comfort sneakers, perfect for those who want a balance between softness and durability.

On Cloudeclipse

For those who want next-level softness, the Cloud Eclipse delivers with Helion Superfoam and double-layered CloudTec cushioning. While some On sneakers are designed more for performance, this one leans into pure comfort. The sleek, minimalistic design combined with strong heel support makes it a stylish yet functional choice for anyone who wants softness without sacrificing structure.

Brooks Glycerin Max

Brooks finally took its flagship cushioned runner and pushed it to the extreme with the Glycerin Max. It introduces DNA Loft V3 cushioning, which is softer than previous versions while still offering durability. The fit is generous, making it a great pick for those with wider feet. Whether you’re running, walking, or spending long hours on your feet, this sneaker is built to handle it.

New Balance Fresh Foam X More V5

If you’re after the absolute softest sneaker of 2025, the Fresh Foam X More V5 is the one. With a 44mm stack height and Fresh Foam X cushioning, it offers one of the most plush rides on the market. The wide base adds stability, while the engineered mesh upper ensures breathability. Whether you’re walking, running errands, or standing for long hours, this sneaker makes every step feel ridiculously comfortable.