Top 10 Best Shoe Brands for the Ultimate Comfort and Fit: Luxury, Running, and Dress Shoes for Men and Women

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Today’s shoe choice is so diverse that it may satisfy even the pickiest customers. Classic, sporty, and casual — a wide range of models for every taste and budget. Plus, the sheer number of manufacturers makes your head spin.

However, all these beg the question: what are the best shoe brands? Check out our list of the best shoe brands that have earned a name for themselves in the upper echelons of the worldwide footwear market, with Cariuma at the top.

Best Shoe Brands

• Cariuma – Best shoe brand overall
• Stuart Weitzman – One of the best shoe brands for women
• Cole Haan – One of the best shoe brands for standing all day
• Steve Madden – One of the best shoe brands for men
• G.H. Bass – One of the best dress shoe brands
• Ted Baker – One of the best running shoe brands
• Jimmy Choo – One of the best shoe brands for weddings
• Prada – One of the best designer shoe brands
• Oliver Cabell – One of the best shoe brands for walking
• Grenson – One of the world’s oldest shoe brand

We frequently form impressions of others based on the shoes they wear. That’s fine, considering how much of a statement one’s footwear makes [1]. Looking for the best shoe brands that fit your feet, feel good, and offer support?

Read on to find out how to pick the best shoe brands to match your fashion needs and budget. We considered each winner’s price, quality, and comfort on our list of the best shoe brands for men and women.

1. Cariuma – Best Shoe Brand Overall – Ranking 4.9/5

Pros

• Eco-friendly leather, canvas, and suede styles.
• For every pair bought, a tree is planted in the Brazilian rainforest.
• Slip-on-able and machine-washable.
• Affordable.

Cons

• Some models sell out rapidly, so you may need to sign up for restock alerts or monitor the website.

Why Pick Cariuma?

Cariuma is one of the best shoe brands for men and women who are environmentally conscious. The brand prioritizes sustainability and quality without outrageous prices. Its cozy shoe assortment is made from GOTS-certified organic cotton, bamboo, sugarcane, and other plant-based alternatives to petroleum.

Cariuma shoes are halfway between minimalist, practical, and stylish in terms of aesthetics. Depending on your preferred look, they provide a fantastic selection of low- and high-cut sneakers.

Who Shouldn’t Pick Cariuma?

You should look elsewhere if you’re a fan of natural leather shoes. Cariuma is one of the top sneaker brands that doesn’t use angora, down, fur, exotic animal skin, or hair.

However, sustainable footwear has come a long way recently, and cruelty-free fabrics can now achieve the same performance as those derived from animals [2].

Cariuma Ranking: 4.9/5

Overall Quality – 4.9/5

Regarding quality, a great deal of craftsmanship goes into creating these shoes. Premium, naturally sourced materials do make a difference.

Cost – 4.9/5

Cariuma’s sneakers are reasonably priced. Prices range from $79 to $129, depending on the model.

Comfort – 4.9/5

These days, sneakers are a wardrobe essential, and these from Cariuma are not only eco-friendly but also extremely comfortable.

Summary

Founded as a stance against the wasteful methods inherent to fast fashion, Cariuma works only with ethical factories and gets its materials from natural and recycled sources. Not only is Cariuma one of the best shoe brands for men and women we looked at, but also one of the most versatile due to the classic silhouette that works well with a wide variety of outfits.

2. Stuart Weitzman – One of the Best Shoe Brands for Women – Ranking 4.8/5

Pros

• World-renowned brand.
• High-quality shoes.
• Timeless elegance for dressy and everyday occasions.

Cons

Why Pick Stuart Weitzman?

Stuart Weitzman takes the lead among the best shoe brands for women who are brave, bold, and spirited. Businesswomen and those with employment that need them to dress professionally already know that Stuart Weitzman shoes are not to be overlooked.

Whether you’re wearing a tapered skirt and white shirt, a straight-line dress, or a manly fitted suit, the high heels from Stuart Weitzman will help you achieve a faultless look.

Who Shouldn’t Pick Stuart Weitzman?

Stuart Weitzman may be too expensive if you’re looking for the best shoe brands for women but have a tight budget. However, cheaper alternatives, like G.H. Bass offers similar features.

Stuart Weitzman Ranking: 4.8/5

Overall Quality – 4.9/5

Stuart Weitzman shoes are made with the best materials and reflect a true dedication to craftsmanship and quality, so the leather and suede are incredibly soft and resistant to scuffing.

Cost – 4.6/5

Stuart Weitzman shoes are no more expensive than any other best luxury shoe brands for women. However, they are a fantastic mix of style and function.

Comfort – 4.9/5

Unlike many of the best dress shoe brands, Stuart Weitzman heels have a leather lining that adds comfort, cushioning, and support for the feet and is ideal for fall fashion or winter fashion trends.

Summary

Stuart Weitzman ranks as one of the best luxury shoe brands for women on our list. The brand is synonymous with timeless and sophisticated style. From flats and sandals to pump shoes and boots, there is something in Stuart Weitzman’s collection for every occasion and style.

3. Cole Haan – One of the Best Shoe Brands for Standing All Day – Ranking 4.8/5

Pros

• Well-priced.
• Easy to wear and versatile.
• Grand.OS technology for ultimate comfort.

Cons

• Not the most classic styles.

Why Pick Cole Haan?

Are you looking for comfortable, practical shoes or the best shoe brands for standing all day? Cole Haan is well known for its high-quality and comfortable products.

They are specifically designed to provide you with the support you require for lengthy periods of standing without suffering pain. This is thanks to the shoe’s patented Grand.OS technology, which features anatomically adjusted cushioning and a grooved rubber sole for better traction.

Who Shouldn’t Pick Cole Haan?

Cole Haan uses only a tiny percentage of eco-friendly and sustainable materials, so if you want to invest sustainably, look into other best luxury shoe brands.

Cole Haan Ranking: 4.8/5

Overall Quality – 4.8/5

The brand thrives at the crossroads of comfort, design, and artistry, combining quality materials and detailing to offer modern and refined footwear.

Cost – 4.6/5

While most Cole Haan shoes are pricey, the brand also manufactures a few casual designs for the budget-conscious market. Additionally, this major manufacturer of men’s and women’s footwear offers discounts throughout the year, so you should visit their store regularly.

Comfort – 4.9/5

Cole Haan shoes have an Ortholite foam insole for underfoot cushioning, so your feet will feel supported even if you wear them for hours.

Summary

Cole Haan is one of the best shoe brands for men and women who stand all day. Since its founding in 1920 by Trafton Cole and Eddie Haan, the company has consistently produced high-quality, comfortable, and fashionable footwear. Its revolutionary outsole technology decreases weight and enhances comfort.

>> Check the latest prices for Cole Haan shoes

4. Steve Madden – One of the Best Shoe Brands for Men – Ranking 4.8/5

Pros

• Great range of casual shoes for men.
• Practical for most day-to-day activities.
• Affordable.

Cons

• Some customer service complaints.

Why Pick Steve Madden?

Steve Madden is one of the best shoe brands for men because they’re made for function but with a touch of style. It, therefore, makes sense to state that its collection of men’s casual shoes gives you the versatility you need to look good every day.

High-top shoes with a leather appearance instantly elevate any ensemble. Do you prefer a lower profile? Not a problem! Lace-up sneakers go from work to the weekend with ease.

Who Shouldn’t Pick Steve Madden?

These shoes might not be for you if you want to make a more noticeable statement with visible designer logos.

Steve Madden Ranking: 4.8/5

Overall Quality – 4.8/5

In terms of quality, their low-end offering isn’t up to par with the other best shoe brands for men and women on our list. However, Steve Madden is an excellent starting point for shoe enthusiasts who’d love a wide selection of affordable, high-quality footwear.

Cost – 4.8/5

Steve Madden’s shoes are not as pricey as Prada or Stuart Weitzman, yet they have an expensive appearance.

Comfort – 4.8/5

The brand’s shoes are super comfy, light, and run true to size. Support is a deciding factor in terms of overall comfort. Although Steve Madden shoes lack innovative technology in this area, their entire build is quite supportive.

Summary

A pair of Steve Madden shoes are an excellent option if you want comfort and support without sacrificing style, all for a fair price. The Gills, for example, is a classic round-toe slip-on shoe that is a season-long favorite among men. It boasts twin gore panels on the vamp for comfortable wear and an upper made of leather, lurex, suede, or synthetic materials in various colors.

5. G.H. Bass – One of the Best Dress Shoe Brands – Ranking 4.8/5

Pros

• Versatile design that makes them easy to slip on and go.
• Surprisingly cheap compared to loafers of similar quality.
• A wide range of styles, fabrics, and colors.

Cons

• Most models are offered in full and half sizes, which isn’t a big deal but should be considered when ordering online.

Why Pick G.H. Bass?

G.H. Bass is one of the best dress shoe brands on our list. Its loafers can be worn as dress footwear with smart-casual wear. G.H. Bass shoes can be your new go-to footwear for a minimalistic, easily adaptable dapper-vibe ensemble.

Bass’s rich history and everlasting appeal give today’s wearers of its Weejuns and other models a sense of having one foot in a glamorous past and another in a timeless present.

Who Shouldn’t Pick G.H. Bass?

While G.H. Bass is versatile in appearance, they aren’t particularly geared toward speed. Regardless of their apparent versatility, remember that these are dress shoes.

G.H. Bass Ranking: 4.8/5

Overall Quality – 4.8/5

This shoe brand’s footwear is reasonably priced without sacrificing quality. This standard is kept up due to their continued use of some of the innovative processes pioneered in the company’s early days and the incorporation of new improvements.

Cost – 4.8/5

G.H. Bass is one of the best dress shoe brands, well-known for its comfy and versatile footwear at surprisingly affordable prices.

Comfort – 4.7/5

Reviewers claimed that G.H. Bass loafers felt comfy and required no breaking in. This is impressive, given that leather materials typically require time to stretch and conform to the foot’s shape.

Summary

As one of the best dress shoe brands, G.H. Bass footwear is a stylish addition to casual and formal wear. The brand’s current offers include men’s and women’s loafers, shoes, and slippers. Whether you’re going to the office in a business casual outfit, going on a date, or enjoying a casual night in, G.H. Bass shoes are the ideal footwear for these scenarios.

6. Ted Baker – One of the Best Running Shoe Brands – Ranking 4.8/5

Pros

• Big collection of gym and running shoes.
• Flexible, allowing a wide range of movement.
• High-impact and run training cushioning.
• Affordable running shoes.

Cons

• They are not professional sports shoes, but they are sturdy and of great quality.

Why Pick Ted Baker?

Ted Baker is one of the best running shoe brands when you choose to exercise or prepare for a tiring and busy day. Cheerful colors and modern shades or easy tones to match any outfit, faux leather or suede, low or high soles.

Discover them all and make the right choice for you, so you’re always ready for an energetic day. The brand also provides men’s and women’s apparel and accessories.

Who Shouldn’t Pick Ted Baker?

Most Ted Baker shoes are on the narrow side. If you have slightly wider feet, you may want to go with a line from other best luxury shoe brands.

Ted Baker Ranking: 4.8/5

Overall Quality – 4.8/5

The brand is known for its attention to detail and dedication to high-quality craftsmanship.

Cost – 4.8/5

Ted Baker sports shoes are reasonably priced for the average fashion enthusiast.

Comfort – 4.7/5

Ted Baker’s smooth leather footwear is exceptionally comfortable, and when combined with the durable rubber soles, you can also expect optimal stability for daily training and long and short runs. However, they vary in terms of comfort and size, depending on the model.

Summary

Ted Baker is one of Britain’s best running shoe brands and best dress shoe brands, offering exceptional footwear for both men and women. Ted Baker footwear is available in various designs and colors, including classic white and black. For a splash of color, choose a pair in burgundy, pink, or beige.

7. Jimmy Choo – One of the Best Shoe Brands for Weddings – Ranking 4.7/5

Pros

• Luxurious collection for special occasions.
• High-quality and sassy style.
• A perfect blend of form and function.
• Famous brand among young adults.

Cons

Why Pick Jimmy Choo?

Jimmy Choo bridal heels and shoes are among the best shoe brands for weddings and have the innate ability to add glamor and refinement to any bridal ensemble. Other shoes won’t do.

Additionally, Jimmy Choo’s Made-to-Order service lets customers choose from various styles and customize them in multiple colors, textures, and finishes. Your custom-made Jimmy Choos can contain personal details combining superb Italian craftsmanship and rich materials.

Who Shouldn’t Pick Jimmy Choo?

If you are a budget-conscious consumer who dislikes paying more than the “fair” price, avoid pricey luxury labels such as Jimmy Choo.

Jimmy Choo Ranking: 4.7/5

Overall Quality – 4.9/5

Jimmy Choo shoes are made with high-quality materials and impressive craftsmanship, for which the Italian fashion industry is famous.

Cost – 4.4/5

The brand’s bridal footwear is available in a wide variety of pricing, starting at roughly $500 and rising to around $3,600. Jimmy Choo shoes are excellent as designer gifts for her.

Comfort – 4.8/5

Jimmy Choo has an incredible selection of wedding shoes that exude grace and beauty while providing comfort for the smoothest walk down the aisle imaginable.

Summary

Once you secure your dream wedding dress, the shoes come next. Jimmy Choo is one of the best shoe brands for a bride and groom-to-be. Similar to your bridal jewelry, the luxurious selection from Jimmy Choo reflects your personality.

8. Prada – One of the Best Designer Shoe Brands – Ranking 4.7/5

Pros

• A favorite brand for luxury consumers.
• Wide variety of eclectic styles.
• Quality materials and expert craftsmanship.
• One of the most popular shoe brands in the whole world.

Cons

• Expensive, contrasting the average shopper.

Why Pick Prada?

Prada is one of the best luxury shoe brands for men and women in the shoe industry. The designer has been a household name for over a century. The brand’s designers have consistently sought to be innovative while keeping a traditional, elegant aesthetic.

The best designer shoes made by Prada are suitable for lounging, casual use, formal dress, and business clothing. The Italian luxury fashion house has proven its longevity, and the Prada name remains sought after and trend-setting, with some of the best designer handbags, best sunglasses, and best smelling perfumes.

Who Shouldn’t Pick Prada?

Even though the moccasin has a rubber sole and might be worn outside, it may not be ideal for high-energy activities for which laced shoes are better suitable.

Prada may not be suited for people seeking a simple pair of everyday shoes. Instead, you may want to look at other more affordable brands, like Steve Madden or G. H. Bass.

Prada Ranking: 4.7/5

Overall Quality – 4.9/5

Instead of using synthetic blends like polyester and nylon, Prada uses natural materials like shearling and calfskin, and many of the embellishments on Prada shoes are handcrafted. Many other brands simply cannot compete with this level of craftsmanship and quality found in high fashion brands like Prada.

Cost – 4.4/5

Prada’s footwear is costly due to the brand’s reputation for conferring instant social status upon its wearers.

Comfort – 4.8/5

According to reviewers, Prada shoes are true to size and very comfortable. The Prada Cloudbust, for example, boasts an exceptionally soft and comfortable upper and a delightfully comfy midsole.

Summary

Prada is the byword for unique designs and outstanding quality for those who love and value high-end fashion. Given the respect the luxury brand has garnered over the years and its excellent craftsmanship and quality, Prada deserves the title of one of the best luxury shoe brands for men and women.

9. Oliver Cabell – One of the Best Shoe Brands for Walking – Ranking 4.6/5

Pros

• Durable stitching.
• Fun, cutting-edge designs.
• Fair price point.
• Great range of flats, sandals, flip-flops and boots.

Cons

• “Worn” design is subjective.

Why Pick Oliver Cabell?

People who walk regularly at a moderate pace are less likely to get high blood pressure, high cholesterol, and type 2 diabetes [3].

For active men and women, good sneakers are a must. With Oliver Cabell shoes for walking, you can cover miles, wherever, and at whatever pace. The company also manufactures apparel and accessories.

Who Shouldn’t Pick Oliver Cabell?

If you prefer to make more of a statement with visible designer logos, these walking shoes may not be for you. Instead, you may want to look at luxury brands like Prada Madden or Jimmy Choo.

Also, this brand is playing with its own styles by making fun and innovative designs, so these shoes are not for people looking for a more conservative look.

Oliver Cabell Ranking: 4.6/5

Overall Quality – 4.6/5

Oliver Cabell manufactures shoes at reasonable costs, utilizing ethical factories and high-quality materials.

Cost – 4.7/5

Oliver Cabell sells sneakers at an affordable price. Their quality is on par with that of luxury brands, yet they cost a fraction of the price, and you can currently purchase a new pair at a discount.

Comfort – 4.6/5

It may take a few wears to break in the leather, but they are light and comfortable to walk in after that.

Summary

Oliver Cabell is one of the world’s best shoe brands for men and women who like to walk. For instance, the white Oliver Cabell Phoenix is sturdy enough to withstand hours of wear and tear. Your footprints will leave a smaller carbon impact on the planet as they are lightweight and made from reused plastic water bottles.

10. Grenson – One of the World’s Oldest Shoe Brands – Ranking 4.6/5

Pros

• Classic and stylish footwear.
• Meticulous craftsmanship.
• A tradition for more than a century.
• Goodyear welted.

Cons

• Expensive for the average shopper.

Why Pick Grenson?

Grenson is a famous shoe brand best known for its classic brogue styles, which have been worn by celebrities past and present. Its goodyear welt construction is the epitome of shoemaking craftsmanship.

Simply put, the Goodyear welt construction refers to a strip of leather sewn around the shoe’s bottom and linked to the insole and upper to hold it together. The welt can be simply unstitched, which detaches the sole without damaging the shoe, allowing it to be replaced often.

Who Shouldn’t Pick Grenson?

Grenson shoes need care and upkeep to look their best. If you don’t have the time, you might want to reconsider purchasing these high-end shoes. Furthermore, the steep price tag is not for the faint of heart, so if you’re looking for a bargain, look elsewhere.

Grenson Ranking: 4.6/5

Overall Quality – 4.7/5

The use of high-quality materials combined with the artistry of skilled apprentices result in durable shoes resistant to everyday wear and tear effects.

Cost – 4.6/5

Grenson releases innovative designs, resulting in a product line that spans in price from $220 to $560 depending on the model. They are ideal as designer gifts for men.

Comfort – 4.6/5

Grenson shoes need to be worn for a while—four to six wears—before they become truly comfortable.

Summary

Grenson bills itself as an “old shoe company with a young heart.” Its shoes are renowned for their classic designs that have stood the test of time thanks to a century-long quest to master the art of making leather footwear. From traditional brogues to lace-up boots, you can find the perfect footwear to complement your current wardrobe.

How To Choose the Best Shoe Brands for Men and Women

Proper footwear can keep your feet healthy, facilitate physical activity, and reduce the risk of injury. Nowadays, the best shoe brands for men and women pay special attention to preventing discomfort and other issues. Here are some tips to help you choose the best shoe brands for men and women:

• Personal style. Shoes are the finishing touch that can make or break an outfit’s positive impact. So, it’s essential to pick the best shoe brands that suit your style and intended use, considering the environment in which they will be worn.
• Brand identity. The moment a consumer engages with a brand, there is an immediate effect. A new pair of Prada shoes, for instance, imparts instant social status on the wearer.
• Value for money. This doesn’t always mean the cheapest shoes with prices that can’t be beat, but rather how much you get for your money. For example, we love Stuart Weitzman high-end shoes as long as the quality justifies the cost.

How We Ranked the Best Shoe Brands for Men and Women

We ranked our best shoe designer brands for men and women based on the following criteria:

Quality

We evaluated the materials, their origins, and the tanning procedure for making the shoe. A shoes’ quality is determined not only by the materials used but also by the manufacturing processes. We looked beyond branding, fashion, and aesthetics and delved deeper into the actual construction of a shoe.

Cost

A big consideration for this list of the best shoe brands for men and women is the price. Some shoe brands have reasonable starting prices, while others charge hundreds of dollars for a single pair. Look for a form-function balance that equals the initial budget or is close to matching. There are models for every taste and budget, we promise.

Comfort

Uncomfortable footwear can impair posture, increase the likelihood of low back pain, and disrupt regular stride [4]. Therefore, we took this matter quite seriously. Cariuma and Cole Haan stand out in this category. Their construction and look are distinct but designed to be comfortable.

Best Shoe Brands: FAQs

What are the most frequently asked questions about the best shoe brands for men and women? Let’s find out:

What Is the Best Shoe Brand Overall?

Cariuma takes the lead among the best shoe brands for men and women. The brand’s sneakers provide unrivaled support and cushioning, making them one of the best running shoe brands.

Its shoes are halfway between minimalist, practical, and stylish. Depending on your preferred look, the brand provides a fantastic selection of eco-friendly leather, canvas, and suede styles.

Which Brand Manufactures High-Quality Shoes?

Stuart Weitzman are one of the best luxury shoe brands that make products with the best materials and reflect a true dedication to craftsmanship and quality, so the leather and suede are incredibly soft and resistant to scuffing. They make excellent luxury gifts or gifts for women if you feel like splurging.

What Are the Three Best Shoe Brands for Men and Women?

Best Shoe Brands: Final Thoughts

People generally want shoes they can wear anywhere and for long periods. The Cariuma brand fulfills this need. Their casual footwear prioritizes style without sacrificing the comfort of their customers, making them one of the best luxury shoe brands.

However, there is a little something for everyone on our list of the best shoe brands for men and women. From the outright elegance of the best dress shoe brands Stuart Weitzman, Prada, and Jimmy Choo to Ted Baker and Oliver Cabell’s sturdy but sophisticated takes, we’ve got you covered.

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References

1. Omri Gillath et al. “Shoes as a Source of First Impressions.” Journal of Research in Personality, Academic Press, 13 April 2012, https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/abs/pii/S0092656612000608
2. Doroteja Mandaric et al. “The Impact of Fashion Brand Sustainability on Consumer Purchasing Decisions.” MDPI, Multidisciplinary Digital Publishing Institute, 11 April. 2022, https://www.mdpi.com/1911-8074/15/4/176
3. Elaine M. Murtagh et al. “Walking: The First Steps in Cardiovascular Disease Prevention.” Current Opinion in Cardiology, U.S. National Library of Medicine, Sept. 2010, https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3098122/
4. Marianna Trebunova et al. The Effect of Footwear to the Posture – Researchgate. June 2020. https://www.researchgate.net/publication/348491618_THE_EFFECT_OF_FOOTWEAR_TO_THE_POSTURE