For a lot of folks, Memorial Day weekend is a time to sleep in, grill a few burgers and get in a game of cornhole. But for me, it’s the time I get to stretch all the deal-hunting muscles I’ve spent years building as a shopping editor. And this year, I’m getting quite the workout.
Memorial Day sales are not messing around — we’re talking big markdowns on everything, including tech, mattresses and patio furniture. But where I lose all sense of moderation? The deals on shoes. Sandals, sneakers, slides and everything in between are marked down. At the top of my list? The Kate Middleton-approved Superga Cotu Classics for 50% off, or a pair of Clarks Breeze Sea sandals for $27 off that will let you walk around in casual comfort all summer long.
Even better, I’ve spied absolute steals from Yahoo readers’ favorite brands, including Hoka, Skechers and Crocs. Whether you’re eyeing something comfy, cute or both, Memorial Day is the time to strike.
Need some summer style inspiration? These canvas cuties were made famous by Kate Middleton. The classic, simple design makes them more polished-looking than other sneakers — wear them with flirty dresses, casual jeans, even dressy trousers. Colors and sizes are being snapped up fast, so don’t wait on this one.
“I love Supergas, and the Cotu Classic is comfortable with or without socks,” wrote a fashionista. “I’ve worn them for long days of travel and sometimes my feet get a little tired in them, but they are excellent for casual work attire.”
These comfortable, breathable slip-ons are an airport security line MVP, thanks to their easy-on and easy-off design, says travel expert Samantha Brown. Plus, cooling insoles provide superior cushioning, so you’ll keep wearing them long after you’ve landed. Click around for the best deal — some colors and sizes are available at an even steeper discount.
“I am a teacher and on my feet most of the day,” shared one of over 70,000 five-star fans. “I wear these shoes nearly every day for the entire school year (usually with a thin insert in to place my heels higher and for an extra cushion). The black version is great with business casual attire, even with skirts, and super comfortable. I have taken these traveling and walked in them daily for hours with no issues.”
If you’ve seen a pair of Hokas in the wild, there’s a good chance they were Cliftons. These are among the brand’s most popular picks, and it’s easy to see why. “They’re absolutely cloud-like,” raves Yahoo Deputy Editor Izabella Zaydenberg. “They were the only shoes that didn’t exacerbate my plantar fasciitis (especially when I walked for hours at Disneyland).” Sizes are going fast, but there’s still pretty decent availability with these black and white beauties.
The knit upper is breathable, and the rubber sole provides great traction. “While they’re definitely a little bulky, they’re still really lightweight and comfortable enough for all-day wear,” Zaydenberg says. The sneakers come in regular and GTX (waterproof) styles and both standard and wide sizes, helpful since Zaydenberg finds them a bit narrow.
Cute enough to wear out, comfy enough to never take off, these sandals are just what summer demands. They feature soft faux leather straps, a cushioned and contoured footbed for all-day support and a flexible sole that moves with you. They’re also lightweight, with an adjustable buckle for a secure fit.
“These are my favorite sandals!” gushed a happy walker and Macy’s shopper. “I bought them in two colors: black and pink. They run a little big — I usually wear a size 10, but in these sandals, a size 9.5 fits me perfectly. They take a couple of wears to get comfortable, but they are great for casual tasks and comfy for long periods.”
Fashion doesn’t have to be painful. Made with extra-supportive insoles, these sporty-chic white sneakers can take you anywhere. I own these shoes and they are my go-to vacation sneakers — I’ve walked for miles in them, both pain- and blister-free.
Don’t believe me? One Nordstrom reviewer wrote: “A few months ago, I broke my ankle. For the next year or so, I am going to be wearing sneakers — I am so happy with these. Comfy-nice style, and I received so many compliments.”
If comfy cool is your jam, this is the shoe for you. Beloved by chefs, medical workers and kids alike, Crocs are lightweight, easy to clean, quick-drying and water-friendly. Y’know — as fun as a day at the beach.
“As a former Crocs hater, I wish I would have just given these a shot way long ago!” raved this newly converted fan. “I kept hearing how incredibly comfortable they are, and I finally broke down and tried a pair. I am a plus-size woman with a foot and ankle injury and have dealt with plantar fasciitis in the past, so I’m pretty sensitive about footwear. It’s got to be supportive. Well, these are! I feel like I have a bit of extra pep in my step when I wear them.”
These Brooks sneakers have long been a favorite among runners. They hold the American Podiatric Medical Association’s Seal of Acceptance, awarded to products “found to promote good foot health.”
Yahoo’s Initiatives writer, Ellie Conley, ran in these bad boys all the way to the finish line of a half-marathon. She says: “They felt like they were cradling me for a more balanced step, and the insole had the perfect amount of arch support to keep my feet from rolling inward as my legs got tired.”
These sassy sandals from Clarks are made for summer. They strike that sweet spot between comfy and stylish, with a wedge heel to give you a little lift, stability and support. You’ll feel like you’re walking on marshmallows if you’re going the distance, but the floral details give them that extra something you need for a dinner out.
“Incredibly comfortable,” shared a pleased pedestrian and Zappos buyer. “Feels like you are walking on a cloud. Fit is generous, so I would not size up. Very flattering and fun design.”
Need cushy sneakers for an upcoming trip? Or just want to get out and walk more? Then these top-rated Skechers deserve a spot in your Kohl’s shopping cart. They’re outfitted with a foam midsole that offers support and stability, while the deep grooves on the outsole deliver maximum traction.
“Best shoe purchase I’ve made,” one hot stepper shared. “They are so light and so comfortable. True to size.” Another fan added, “Love these shoes. Like walking on pillows.”
These aren’t your average flip-flops. Clarks makes shoes that prioritize comfort, and these are a good example: They’re lightweight, cushy underfoot and, unlike a regular flip-flop, they have an adjustable strap that helps them stay put. Stylish yet sturdy, they have over 66,000 five-star ratings. Prices vary by size and color, but a ton of them are on sale.
“Love them,” reported a rave reviewer. “[I have] arthritis from my neck all the way down to my feet. They are the only shoes that I can wear, and they don’t give out. You can’t go wrong with these shoes.”
Squishy, supportive and washable, these Oofos slides are just what your tired tootsies need for summertime recovery. Made with foam specially designed to absorb significantly more impact than regular old flip-flops, they’re shock-absorbing and arch-supporting, making them great for after a workout, after a walk or giving your feet a break from hard floors.
“I use these as house slippers and they’re like walking on a cloud,” raved a happy REI shopper. “Each step is so soft. Perfect as recovery slides after long hours of being on your feet, hiking, running, or doing your house chores and cooking.”
These sandals topped Yahoo’s list of the best walking sandals. They have soft, adjustable straps, a grippy sole and a footbed that cradles your feet. Our tester said they “felt like gliding on smooth terrain,” and with that kind of praise, they’re the ones you’ll reach for when you board the plane for your next vacation.
“First of all, the fit of my Tevas was spot on!” shared a savvy traveler. “I got this pair specifically for a trip to the beach. I wore them hiking and swimming through caves, hiking through jungles, walking on the beach and swimming in the ocean, and they still look brand new! I do recommend wearing them for a while before you take them on a trip, just so your feet adjust to the fit of the straps.”
Meghan Markle has been spotted in the brand’s classic Stan Smith sneakers multiple times over the years! They boast a soft leather upper, a durable rubber outsole and a supportive footbed for added comfort. They’re fashion chameleons; dress them up with a cute skirt or keep things casual with jeans, leggings or sweats.
“Can’t go wrong with this classic. Not super cushy, but comfortable. Truthfully, I just love these because they look so cute,” commented one five-star reviewer.
You’ll reach for these lightweight, breathable slip-ons on the regular. Cute and sleek, their soft knit upper molds to your feet, while the cushioned footbed with built-in support keeps those dogs from barking.
“These shoes are exactly what I needed for everyday shoes: lightweight and comfortable, with a bit of arch support,” shared a five-star fan. “I’ve tried several other shoes, and these were the best.”
More Memorial Day shoe deals to shop
Summer’s almost here — time to go shoe shopping. (Nordstrom, Amazon, REI, Zappos)
The reviews quoted above reflect the most recent versions at the time of publication.