Shoes to Wear Walking Around NYC

Originally published August 6, 2024. Updated October 1, 2026 with city walking and packing guidance.

Whether you’re from NYC or planning a visit, comfortable footwear is a no-brainer. New Yorkers walk a lot and while a pair of pretty pumps are the perfect finishing touch to your outfit, they’re not practical for the amount of walking you’ll be doing. I promise you, if you invest in good, comfortable shoes, your feet will thank you. 

New Yorkers are some of the most fashionable people and because of the walking lifestyle in the city, your shoes should be an integral part of your outfit each day. You want them to not only be comfortable but also look good! 

Not sure where to start? Here are the best shoes to wear walking around NYC, straight from my closet!

What shoes should you pack for NYC?

Build your shoe choices around how much walking is on the itinerary, then the outfit. A museum day, a long neighborhood walk, and dinner around the corner don’t necessarily call for the same pair.

• For long sightseeing days: start with sneakers you already know are comfortable. Leave room for your toes, check that your heel stays in place, and wear the socks you plan to pack when trying them on.
• For NYC in summer: sneakers work for full days out; secure ankle-strap sandals are another option for shorter walks in the heat. Check for rubbing before committing to a full day.
• For rainy days: choose boots specifically labeled waterproof. A chunky sole or combat-boot shape alone doesn’t make a shoe waterproof.
• For dinner or a shorter outing: loafers, low heels, or heeled boots can dress up the same jeans or trousers. Save an unfamiliar pair for a short outing first.

If suitcase space is tight, pack one familiar walking pair and one dressier option that works with several outfits. Try new shoes on a shorter walk before your trip rather than wearing them for the first time on an all-day itinerary.

Shopping note: the outfit photos below are from the original article. Some pictured pieces are no longer available; they still offer styling ideas. Product availability and sizing can change.

SHOP THE LOOK: DRESS (original piece unavailable) / SWEATER / SANDALS

Shoes to Wear Walking Around NYC

Sandals with an Ankle Strap

The summer months in NYC are, quite frankly, very hot. That means light layers and open toe shoes. If you’re going to wear sandals in the city, opting for a style that has a sturdy ankle strap and can be worn walking at least a mile or two, is key. This pair from Margaux check off all of these boxes. They’re sturdy, comfortable, and stylish. In the summer months, I’ll pair them with a cute dress but they’re also great to wear with ankle-length jeans, trousers, and skirts in the transitional months.

SHOP THE LOOK: ADIDAS SWEATSHIRTS / JACKET / PANTS (original piece unavailable) / SNEAKERS (original piece unavailable)

White Sneakers

Whenever I’m out in the city, the one shoe that is consistently seen is the white sneaker. Whether you go with a slim silhouette or a chunkier option, white sneakers are a must in any closet. You’ll be able to wear them year round with various different outfits but fit and comfort matter more than the color. Choose a pair that works for your own walking routine.

SHOP THE LOOK: SWEATSHIRT / SWEATPANTS / JACKET / SNEAKERS (original piece unavailable) / SUNGLASSES

Chunky Sneakers

Chunky sneakers are having their moment (and have been for a few years now!) thanks to Gen Z. I’m not mad about it! They instantly add a fun “cool girl” element to any outfit and they are SO comfortable. Right now, I am crushing on basically every pair of chunky sneakers New Balance has but this pair from Veja is another great option!

Low Heels

Okay, I know I said a pretty pair of pumps isn’t a practical shoe in NYC, but hear me out: the low heel. It’s on trend, it’s chic, and they are so much more comfortable to walk in. There are various different style shoes with a low heel but my rule of thumb is to either go with a block heel or a secure shoe with a slimmer heel.

For a day with miles of sightseeing, bring your familiar walking shoes and save the heels for the shorter part of the day. A lower heel is not a guarantee of all-day comfort.

Loafers

Loafers are a classic shoe that can be worn year round, and they’re not going anywhere. They’re comfortable, easy to walk in, elevate any outfit, and dare I say chic? The loafer trend has definitely become extremely popular in the last few years. I love finding new ways to style mine, and different silhouettes to change up an outfit!

SHOP THE LOOK: SWEATER / SKIRT / BAG / BOOTS

Heeled Boots

One of my most worn style of shoes in the fall season is heeled boots. They’re chic, easy to walk in, and are practical for the weather. This pair from Sezane is an all-time favorite but look for a stable low heel and a fit that feels comfortable on your own feet. Style yours with skirts, dresses, or jeans.

SHOP THE LOOK: DRESS / BELT / BOOTS / SUNGLASSES

Waterproof Boots

The weather in New York can be really unpredictable, especially in the fall and winter seasons. To be prepared for any weather, I cannot recommend a good pair of waterproof boots enough! The brand Blondo makes a lot of great options that are also stylish but check the individual product’s waterproof description. The shape alone is not a weather guarantee, whether you choose combat boots or a lug sole boot.