Shoes After 60: How to Stay Stylish Without Sacrificing Your Feet
Do you tend to prioritize comfort when purchasing shoes? Good footwear is essential, and even more so as we get older. Our feet have walked a lot of miles and have taken us to many places, so of course, it’s normal that they get a little tired as we age.
Most of us will face this reality and want comfortable footwear, but we certainly don’t want to sacrifice style. At least I don’t! I love shoes, always have, and I know I can’t wear the cute platforms and high heels I used to when I was younger. One thing I know is that I want to stay stylish without sacrificing my feet.
There’s no reason to slip into granny shoes after 60. Today’s footwear brands offer style and comfort for people of all ages. Let’s take a look at some of my favorite brands and styles of shoes and why they can help you stay stylish without compromising comfort.
Tips on How to Find Stylish Shoes Without Sacrificing Comfort
Start with Fit… Not the Size on the Box
Our feet change over time. There’s no going around that fact. It’s no use denying it and trying to keep squeezing your feet into the size shoe you used to wear.
For those of us who have had children, we probably noticed a permanent difference in shoe size after pregnancy. Menopause and aging are other factors that affect our feet (and many other parts of the body).
- Are your feet wider than they used to be? Look for wide (W) shoes. Many brands offer slim, regular, and wide shoe size ranges.
- Have your toes spread out a bit? Look for wide toe boxes so your toes aren’t feeling squeezed.
- Do your arches feel different? Look for orthopedic arch-support shoes designed to keep aging feet happy and comfy.
Go for Quality Materials
Cheap plastic shoes may be trendy and inexpensive, but you will most likely regret them in the long run. Quality shoes should last more than a season, and yes, they tend to be pricier.
Many retailers are replacing leather (which used to be a staple for shoes) with eco-friendly and more sustainable alternatives. We can now find shoes made out of cactus, mushrooms, cork, and even recycled plastic bottles.
Choose Smart Soles, Insoles, and Heels
Technology is always advancing, even in the shoe industry. Choosing the right soles, insoles, and heels will make a huge difference.
Look for soles that are thick and flexible. This will help with the impact and stress on your joints. Ensure they have a grip to reduce the risk of slips and falls.
Choose insoles that are cushioned and have light arch support. Some shoes come with removable insoles. This is an excellent feature because it lets you customize your comfort. Also, insoles can be bought separately and inserted for extra comfort.
What about the heels? You probably don’t want to wear 4” stiletto heels anymore, I know I don’t. Choose wide heels to distribute weight evenly. You can still wear heels, but ensure they are not too high to compromise your comfort and safety. You can still get some height with wedge heels, low block heels, and platforms. They are more stable than thin spiked heels and are trending.
Read more: Best Walking Shoes for Senior Women.
What About Shoe Trends?
Fast fashion continually introduces new styles and colors each season, but that doesn’t mean that you should follow them mindlessly. It also doesn’t mean that you should ignore them because you are a woman over 60. The best way to approach trends is to view them as options, not rules.
Thankfully, we have seen trends shift toward more comfortable shoes in the last few years. This year, sneakers (runners, trainers) are popular across all age groups and are worn fashionably with skirts and dressy trousers.
Stylish and Comfortable Shoe Brands for Women Over 60
Here is a list of shoe brands that offer excellent options for women over 60. Some of these you probably already know, and some may be new discoveries.
Flats Don’t Have to Be Boring
Clarks
Clark’s is known for classic styles. The brand focuses on comfort, featuring cushioned footbeds and practical silhouettes ideal for everyday wear.
Westlynn Bella Denim Blue Leather, available in medium and wide.
Naturalizer
Reputable brand Naturalizer offers stylish, wearable shoes with thoughtful features, including wider toe boxes and flexible soles.
Sneakers Are Not Only for the Gym Anymore
Ecco
Ecco combines trendy designs with quality materials. Their shoes are a favorite for walking and traveling because of their lightweight construction.
KURU
KURU specializes in shoes designed to support heels and also offer arch comfort. They are made with structured soles that reduce foot fatigue while remaining casual and current.
Hoka
Hoka shoes feature cushioned soles and rocker-style designs that support smooth movement. These shoes are extremely popular in all age groups.
Comfy and Stylish Dressy Shoes for Special Occasions
Aerosoles
This brand focuses on soft materials and flexible soles. Most of their dressy shoes have wearable heel heights that are excellent for women over 60.
Comfortable Women’s Dress Wedge in Natural Cork
Allbirds
Allbirds is known for minimalist shoes made from sustainable materials. They offer lightweight comfort and breathable designs ideal for everyday wear and travel.
Read more: 9 Best Travel Shoes for Older Women.
Comfortable and Stylish Shoes After 60
Yes, you can stay stylish without sacrificing your feet. Toss those granny shoes to the curb! Brands are now offering stylish, reliable, and comfortable shoes for women over 60.
Read more: 2026 Fashion Trends for Women Over 50.
Let’s Have a Conversation:
Do you enjoy wearing stylish shoes? What are your favorite shoe brands that don’t sacrifice style? Do you prefer flats, sneakers, or dressy shoes? Do you have any other shoe brands that you would like us to add to our list? Tell us about it in the comments below.
I am 67 years young and suffered with plantar fasciitis a couple of years ago. That is when I found Orthofeet, Inc. http://www.orthofeet.com Best shoes I have ever worn. I wish I had a dime for all the friends and family whom I recommended Orthofeet to! Not only do they swear by them, they are repeat customers!
For those of us with major bunion issues, foot pad atrophy, or other foot issues, the shoes from the brand Orthofeet can be lifesavers. And, many of them are beautifully stylish.