34 Shoes For College Students

We hope you love our recommendations! Some may have been sent as samples, but all were independently selected by our editors. Just FYI, BuzzFeed collects a share of sales and/or other compensation from the links on this page.

These grade-A styles are at the top of their class.

BuzzFeed Staff

Unless otherwise specified, all sizes in this post are listed in women’s.

FYI, these are included in Prime Try Before You Buy so you can give them a trial run if you're a member! ALSO, many reviewers say these run big, so consider sizing down!

Promising review: "I have been wearing Docs for years now, and this pair has to take first place for comfort. They're incredibly cute and versatile, can be dressed up or down, and just like any other pair of Docs are faithfully durable. Docs always run big so I sized a full size down and still comfortably wear them with thin–thick socks. I brought them on a long trip, wore them in various weather conditions like rain/snow/forest trails, and they worked great." —Stacy Cruz

Get it from Amazon for $60+ (available in sizes 5–11 and in 20 styles).

FYI, these are included in Prime Try Before You Buy so you can give them a trial run if you're a member!

Promising review: "WOW THESE shoes are SO comfy! They are really soft and flexible — reminds me of a dance shoe. I am not a heel person but this heel is the perfect height. The foot bed is cushiony and the suede is really soft. I usually don't spend this much on a pair of shoes that I wouldn't wear on a daily basis, but I'm so glad I did! They are my go-to shoe with a crop pant or dress now." —tara_fitandhappy

Get them from Amazon for $63.63+ (available in sizes 5–12 and in nine colors).

Promising review: "I have ordered several pairs trying to find the one that lives up to its hype. Well this one is it. Super cushy and fits true to size. I ordered the mauvish pink colored one and love it. I will be ordering a black pair. I have a heel spur and planters fasciitis so regular flip-flops bother me after wearing them for several hours, but these do not. Very pleased with this purchase and highly recommend." —leah

Get it from Amazon for $24.99 (available in sizes 5–12 and in 30 colors).

Promising review: "I got these boots right before leaving on a three-week vacation to Scotland and London. I didn't want to bring big heavy boots in my bag so I got these. They are pretty lightweight and very comfortable. I put an insole in to help with the cobblestone streets but I was able to wear them comfortably through long days of walking. They definitely have a chemical smell when you first open them up but it has worn off by now." —epop86

Get them from Amazon for $30.98+ (available in sizes 4–13 and 13 colors).

Promising review: "Simply for the value these boots are amazing! I’m a photographer that does a lot of outdoor lifestyle shoots and these have seriously saved my ankles from bugs and dirt." —Christina W

Get it from Target for $29.99 (also available in 6–11 standard, 5–11 wide, and in three designs).

FYI, these are included in Prime Try Before You Buy so you can give them a trial run if you're a member!

Promising review: "LOVE. THESE. BOOTS. They are comfortable — even after spending the whole day walking around in them. They also fit snug to my legs — not loose, and won’t fall down! No need to pull them up every five seconds. HIGHLY recommend!" —missmary

Get it from Amazon for $48.49 (available in sizes 5–10 and in 29 styles).

FYI, these are included in Prime Try Before You Buy so you can give them a trial run if you're a member!

Promising review: "These are the BEST sandals! I’ve been having problems with my arches and I needed some shoes with better support. However, I also wanted them to be stylish. I found these and LOVE them. They are so comfy! I’ve worn them for work and to an outdoor festival where I was on my feet all day. They never hurt. Usually my feet ache after a day like that. I’m seriously considering ordering the black pair too!" —Maggie Schuyler

Get them from Amazon for $60.49+ (available in sizes 6–11 and in tan or black).

Promising review: "Reaching for these sandals more and more because they’re comfy, cute, and elevate my outfits! They didn’t require any breaking in and I’ve worn them for an entire day out and had no issues with long term wear. Fit was true to size. Going to get another color since I love them so much!" —Nidhi Patel

Get it from Amazon for $29.99+ (available in sizes 6–10 and in 15 styles).

Promising review: "Thought the shoes were cute and read raving reviews, so I bought them. Wow! Sooo cute and extremely comfortable! I’m so excited about these! It feels like you’re walking on a cloud and I cannot believe the price I paid for them. Amazing deal. Highly recommend! I bought my size, an 8, and they fit perfectly. They are not too narrow and they definitely don’t look like 'clown shoes' as someone mentioned. Adorable 10/10!" —Talia

Get it from Amazon for $35.99 (available in sizes 5–10 and in 11 colors).

FYI, these are included in Prime Try Before You Buy so you can give them a trial run if you're a member!

Promising review: "LOVE THESE FLIP-FLOPS! I have Clarks boots and always thought they were one of the most comfortable pairs of boots I've owned. When I saw they made flip-flops I used the try before you buy feature and wasted no time buying them. They are soooo comfortable. We have tile and hardwood floors and if I'm not wearing good shoes, the pads of my feet and ankles hurt by the end of the day. These are like walking on pillows without being bulky (just good soles) and they fit my feet like a glove. Just ordered me another pair." —Bonnie Wagaman

Get it from Amazon for $26.99+ (available in sizes 5–12 and in 36 colors).

FYI, these are included in Prime Try Before You Buy so you can give them a trial run if you're a member!

Promising review: "Love these! They look like a classic simple pair of black flip-flops but are sooo comfortable. I wore them my whole European vacation, which included hours spent walking around Venice, Florence, etc. and not a single blister!" —Kerr

Get it from Amazon for $29.83+ (available in sizes 5–11 and in 24 colors).

FYI, these are included in Prime Try Before You Buy so you can give them a trial run if you're a member! And if you like the sound of these, be sure to check out some other shoes you can walk 500 miles in.

Promising review: "So comfortable. Walked around London for seven to eight hours and my feet were not the least bit sore! I recommended them to a friend who was taking a two-week vacation in Italy and she said the same...comfortable after hours and hours of walking!" —Christina

Get it from Amazon for $30.48+ (available in sizes 5–11 and in 39 styles).

These shoes are quite literally made for walking (and that's just what they'll do!).

Promising review: "I bought these to walk around Disney World and they were perfect. Comfortable out of the box, breathable, and stylish. We walked around 10 miles every day and these worked out great." —Charrissa L.

Get them from Allbirds for $105 (available in sizes 5–11 and in five colors).

FYI, these are included in Prime Try Before You Buy so you can give them a trial run if you're a member!

Promising review: "I had these in my cart for a while before I actually purchased them. They can easily be dressed up or down and were comfortable right out of the box. Usually it takes a little bit to break in sandals but these were surprisingly easy on my feet. My only regret is not buying them sooner, so if you’re in the fence just get them!" —Katie Smi

Get it from Amazon for $32.72+ (available in sizes 6–11 and in 15 colors).

Promising review: "The most comfortable flat ever. I love how the shoe conforms to my feet. I can wear them all day long! This is my second pair!" —hanleyfam

Get it from Everlane for $101+ (originally $135; available in sizes 5–11 and in 10 colors).

Promising review: "I have traveled in these shoes all over Japan and England and I couldn't be more delighted. Logged 12 miles in one day walking around London without a blister or toe out of place. I love their versatility — they are nice enough to wear for business — particularly if you are on your feet a lot. Also, look super cute with jeans or a sundress. I love Dansko shoes and these have not disappointed. Truly held up over time and continue to cradle my feet today!" —Sara E. Guterbock

Get them from Amazon for $138.95 (available in sizes 5.5–12 and in three colors).

FYI, these are included in Prime Try Before You Buy so you can give them a trial run if you're a member!

Promising review: "These are the most comfortable shoes I own! They didn’t need time to break in at all and are super cute for work and nights out. Love!!!" —AA47

Get them from Amazon for $35.99+ (available in sizes 5–11 and in 15 styles).

Miuccia Studio is an Indonesia-based Etsy shop that specializes in *stunning* handmade shoes and bags.

Promising review: "Love love love these!! I’ve been looking for the perfect pair of mules for months, I’m so happy I ordered these. They go with everything and are super comfy. Shipping was right on time if not a little early." —Stacie Carlson

Get it from Miuccia Studio on Etsy for $90 (available in EU sizes 36–43 and in six colors).

FYI, these are included in Prime Try Before You Buy so you can give them a trial run if you're a member!

Promising review: "These are the most comfortable shoes I have ever worn. They are so cozy warm. Not bulky. I can go for walks or just lounge around the house in them. Having to be at home all the time these days during the pandemic, I wanted shoes that feel like a slipper but give more support. And they aren't weighing me down like the taller Ugg boots. I will wear these everywhere...in every season. Thank you, Ugg!" —Amy Del Santo

Get them from Amazon for $149.95 (available in sizes 5–12 and in 25 colors).

FYI, these are included in Prime Try Before You Buy so you can give them a trial run if you're a member!

Promising review: "These shoes are a must for any wardrobe. It's elegant, stylish, and super comfortable. Dress it up or dress it down with any outfit. It goes with everything perfectly. At first, I hesitated buying them because I have small narrow feet and weren't sure if they would fit. They fit like a glove with plenty of room for the toes. Don't hesitate getting these amazing shoes. You can't go wrong with these." —Kat's Meow

Get it from Amazon for $49.99+ (available in sizes 5–11 standard and 5–11 wide).

Vivaia is a small shoe brand founded in 2020 with the missions to create stylish and high-quality footwear. Many of the brand's shoes are made from recycled water bottles, and they've implemented a production process that actively works to reduce waste.

Promising review: "Aria 5° flats are the most comfortable shoes I've ever worn! Love the design, the sustainability, and the quick delivery" —Jac***

Get it from Vivaia for $79+ (available in sizes 5–11 and in 30 styles).

Promising review: "I love these boots! My feet are always cold at work but I stand for nine hours straight every day so I have to be comfortable. These are the first boots that I have found that I am comfortable in standing all day. They have fur on the inside and are soft. The boot has a little wiggle room so I can wear thick socks without them being tight. They have good traction for walking around outside in snow or ice. I can’t say enough about how great these boots are! You won’t be disappointed!" —MamaMoRx

Get it from Amazon for $49.99 (available in sizes 5–12 and in six colors).

FYI, this is included in Prime Try Before You Buy so you can give them a trial run if you're a member!

Promising review: "For 39 years I've struggled with having frozen toes in Minnesota winters. For the first time in my life I've found a boot that keeps my feet warm enough without sweating. I won't ever buy another brand of boots, I'm a fan for life!" —Amazona

Get it from Amazon for $116.61+ (available in sizes 5–12 and in four colors).

Macarena Collection is a Buena Park, California-based Etsy shop that specializes in colorful Mexican shoe and clothing design.

Promising review: "I unexpectedly had to walk five miles in the Florida heat and humidity but I had these shoes on and my feet didn’t hurt at all! Super cute and functional." —Tori Kuhn

Get it from Macarena Collection on Etsy for $49.52 (originally $61.90; available in sizes 5–10 and in more colors via their Etsy shop).

Promising review: "I ordered my sandals for at-home try-on, and they shipped very fast even when I had to exchange for a different size. They are constructed beautifully. They seem delicate but are well made and I feel comfortable walking around in them all day for work." —Neely G.

Get it from Nisolo for $138 (available in sizes 5–11 and in five colors).

FYI, these are included in Prime Try Before You Buy so you can give them a trial run if you're a member! Plus, the rubber soles will come in handy on slippery surfaces!

Promising review: "Comfiest shoes on the planet. I bought them for my trip to Thailand, which included a heavy amount of walking and hiking. I now wear them all the time, even for non-adventurous activities. They are so darn comfortable, and have great grip." —Caroline V.

Get it from Amazon for $38.33 (available in sizes 5–11 and in 13 designs).

Promising review: "These shoes are amazing! When I first tried them on, I was a bit skeptical because of the support. It's something that I never felt wearing a shoe. I thought, 'Great, here comes a blister.' NOPE. The support in these shoes, is absolutely incredible. I'm on my feet A LOT while at work — 14 out of the 16 hours I work, I'm walking or running around halls to keep up with patients/clients. And let me just say WOW! The comfortability is astonishing. I figured that since they are a little heavy, that my feet would be tired, or even puffy and swollen – NOPE. ABSOLUTELY NOT. My feet feel great after I take them off. No blisters, the fit is great. I'm OBSESSED with these shoes. After Im done writing this review, I'm ordering another pair! These shows are the real deal." —Kay

Get them from Amazon for $45.99 (available in sizes 5.5–10.5 and in 22 colors).

ZOU XOU SHOES is a Black woman-owned brand founded by Katherine Theobalds who, after becoming disillusioned with fashion's excessive waste issue and detachment from craft, launched her own line of thoughtfully crafted shoes. Each pair is handmade in Argentina by shoemakers using age-old techniques and premium leathers.

Promising review: "Omg they are perfect!!! As soon as I opened the box I could smell the quality. I’ve been eyeing these shoes for months and they are so worth it! Keeping these forever. ❤️ So happy to support!" —Isabella Henriquez

Get it from ZOU XOU SHOES on Etsy for $278 (available in EU sizes 36–42).

FYI, these are included in Prime Try Before You Buy so you can give them a trial run if you're a member!

Promising review: "This is a versatile wedge sandal with a classic look. I got multiple colors and some for gifts! They can be worn professionally with a pantsuit or casually with shorts! They're very comfortable for hours of standing or walking. Great height and stretchy straps. Easy on and off. Inexpensive!!! Also very light, not heavy or clunky!" —Andrés & Mari

Get them from Amazon for $30.96+ (available in sizes 5–12 standard, sizes 6–11 wide, and in eight colors).

BANGS Shoes is a mission-driven small biz that creates ethically made, high-quality canvas sneakers for your daily adventures. Their embroidered sneaks are super cute and every purchase helps to fund loans that invest in entrepreneurs around the globe.

Promising review: "I LOVE these shoes. The embroidery is sturdy and has held up to many hikes already. I get compliments all the time on them!!" —alisha

Get it from BANGS Shoes for $84 (available in sizes 5–11.5).

Promising review: "These are the most comfortable shoes right out of the box! No need to break them in, they are the best. Hey Dudes are true to size. Definitely going to order more." —Caigesmama

Get them from Amazon for $28.06+ (available in sizes 4–12 and in 14 styles).

If you have a wide foot or are in-between sizes, the brand recommends ordering a size up! The leather will mold to your feet after a few wears!

Get them from our Goodful shop for $165 (available in EU sizes 35–42 and in two styles).

FYI, these are included in Prime Try Before You Buy so you can give them a trial run if you're a member!

Promising review: "This is my go-to for travel. They are very comfortable for all-day walking. Easy slip-on/off for TSA, and destinations that require shoes off. I love the gray color, it goes with almost any casual outfit. Takes up little room when packed." —luvboox

Get them from Amazon for $35.99+ (available in sizes 5–13 standard, sizes 7–11 wide, and in 25 colors).

Promising review: "As a student teacher, I am constantly on my feet and moving from my own college campus to pre-schools and chasing after those four-year-olds. I have had these for almost a month now and 1) they've only gotten more comfortable with each wear and 2) I haven't complained once about these shoes. The price had me skeptical because with shoes you typically 'get what you pay for' so the cheaper the shoe, the worse it would be, but that isn't the case with these. The straps don't bother me and the part wrapping around my ankle doesn't irritate me at all. I will definitely be getting these is LOTS of colors :)" —Katy

Get them from Amazon for $27.99 (available in sizes 5.5–11 and in 10 styles).

The reviews for this post have been edited for length and clarity.