The 2024 SELF Sneaker Awards: 30 Top-Notch Pairs for Basically Every Activity

Who it’s for: Anyone who needs to stand for extended periods of time, whether they’re working long shifts at work, attending a music festival, or sightseeing in a new city.

How we tested: On days spent going to work, walking around New York City, and strolling through the park—logging up to 25,000 steps in the process.

One tester said: “The shoe is lightweight and comfortable—I could easily be up on my feet all day with no pain or discomfort. I would recommend these to a health care worker or someone looking for something plain and not too showy to walk in. These are a comfortable choice and really do feel incredible, even after wearing them all day.”

What it does: Comfy, casual, and classic, the Cityverse is a simple sneak you can wear every day without getting tired of it. It has a very comfortable, balanced feel that’s great for walking long distances and a streamlined look that pairs nicely with most outfits (“Anytime I wear these, I get compliments,” said one of our testers).

Who it’s for: Athleisure enthusiasts; hot girl walkers keeping the trend alive; anyone with a big trip coming up.

How we tested: We wore these everywhere and for all kinds of activities, including vacation strolls, dog walks, meetups with friends, and day-long outings.

One tester said: “These are the most comfortable athleisure shoes I’ve ever worn, and I’ve purchased a lot of different models. Somehow Lululemon made cool sneakers that feel just like super-cushiony running shoes. My feet are just so happy when I wear them!”

What it does: We love when a sneaker simultaneously nails form and function, so naturally we adore the Converse Weapon. It’s supportive through the foot and ankle, very comfortable, and, frankly, pretty darn cool. It has a retro look that still feels fresh, and, unlike other fashion-driven sneakers, is anything but flimsy (check out that thick sole!).

Who it’s for: Anyone who’s equally interested in street style and staying comfy.

How we tested: While strolling city sidewalks for hours at a time and playing games of racquetball and pickleball.

One tester said: “These were super stylish and fit like a glove! They’re similar to Jordans, but much less expensive and more accessible. I wore them to an MLB game, and my date commented on how cool he thought my shoes were.”

What it does: This sleek, everyday sneaker shines thanks to its main material, merino wool, which is naturally sweat-wicking, temperature-regulating, and, of course, incredibly soft. Your feet should feel cozy yet cool in the Wool Runner 2, which is a major bonus if you stick with sneakers well into the colder months of the year. And if your pair starts to look a little dingy, it can go straight in the washing machine and emerge good as new.

Who it’s for: Anyone who lives in sneakers and needs a comfy new staple that they can wear year-round.

How we tested: On neighborhood walks, e-bike rides, and coffee shop hangouts.

One tester said: “These are probably the most comfortable non-running shoes I’ve ever worn—I felt like I could walk for hours in them if I needed to, and they worked fine on the e-bike too (my feet didn’t slip off the pedals or anything). They’re so cushy and supportive and also didn’t interfere with my stride; my toes could bend in the right place and my feet could move naturally.”

What it does: Looking for the next Samba, Cortez, or Gazelle? We’re putting our money on Puma’s Easy Rider, a vintage design that debuted in the late ’70s. It has a similarly old-school, sporty-chic look to those aforementioned shoes of the moment, plus a seriously grippy sole and a supportive, slightly bouncy feel. One thing to note is they run narrow, according to our tester, so consider sizing up if you have wider feet.