Staff Picks: Sneaker Freaker’s Go-To Models for Maximum Comfort
Let’s be honest: in today's day and age, sneakers need to do more than just look the part. We need substance and style, baby! Whether it’s daily wear, event shifts or taking a trot to the office vending machine, nobody's looking for sore arches or blisters. That’s where feel-good pairs come in – soft, breathable, and built to last without looking like something out of a uniform catalogue.
We’ve pulled together a collection of styles that actually get it right – the kind of kicks that feel like a win from the second you put them on. Think ENCAP cushioning, mesh uppers, and just the right juice for workin' that 9 to 5!
Gabe: New Balance 990v3
The first time I laced up a pair of , it felt like stepping into a chauffeured Benz with plush leather seats and zero responsibilities. I couldn’t wipe the smile off my face. I’d been dragging around a battered pair of 574s for months, and when the wheels finally fell off, I decided it was time to treat myself – by quietly transferring funds from my S/O. (Local council gigs, it turns out, line the pockets far more quickly than anything us humble media types can scrape together…)
Originally released in 2012 as the third chapter in the dynasty, the v3 marked a subtle but significant evolution. It held tight to the core DNA – chunky dad flow, grey suede glory – but refined the silhouette with better breathability, improved mesh panelling, and a beefed-up ENCAP/ABZORB midsole. The result? A daily driver disguised as orthopaedic royalty.
Seb: ASICS GEL-Kayano 14
I thought long and hard about my choice for this article, mostly because I tend to prioritise looking good over feeling good – beauty is pain, right? After pondering for days, my pick for the cushiest lifestyle sneaker I own is the , a tried-and-true, everyday staple in my wardrobe. I’ve owned and operated many Kayanos over my 26 years on Earth, from the 20s to the 12s, but somehow I always end up back at the 14.
From AWAKE NY’s celestial blue creations to , I can safely say I’ve never complained over sore feet. I don’t have the scientific reasons why the Kayano 14 is so comfy, but I just think it’s all about that GEL-injected midsole. It's also pretty flawless on the looks front, and there’s a bevy of crispy GR releases to choose from. However if you’re more inclined to go for something exclusive, the collaboration arsenal is stacked, with and both dropping bangers earlier this year.
Zoë: adidas SL 72
‘Comfort’ isn’t always about jamming as many cubic shedloads of EVA foam or slabs of synthetic mist into a shoe as possible. For me, it’s also about agility – the feeling that you have total control over the dexterity of your movement, and that even though you’re just chilling on this street corner right now, you’re ready to dodge a rabid opossum the moment it leaps.
That's why my comfort-pick is , the choice lambchop of all vintage-era low-profile sneakers. It's comfy as get-out and gives you genuine fleetness of foot while charming the crowd with hipshot cool.
The build is deceptively simple, and super effective: lightweight nylon upper, suede overlays at toe and heel, slim EVA midsole, and serrated rubber outsole. A relatively short rap-sheet, for sure – but just like the SL 72’s OG fans (shout-out ), it oozes unflappable feel while retaining all the essential functionality you need. Ten out of ten style and comfort, do not see me after class.
Sanj: Salomon XT-4
I’ll be the first to admit I’m probably not the customer had in mind when they first dropped the – truthfully, I only laced up for my first hike a few years ago. But there’s something about that gorpy build that just makes every stroll feel like a mission in comfort. Since its release 10 years ago, the XT-6 has become the poster child for comfort and style thanks to its sleek, lightweight upper, signature toggle lacing and a chunky sole that’ll eat up terrain all day long without ever weighing you down.
Ok, it’s not hard to spot a pair the moment you step out the yard. But, certain GRs (‘like the 'White/Lunar Rock/Night Sky’) have been in my rotation for a minute. Frayed, beat-up, better for it, and still getting pulled out on the regular. I’m big on the ‘fit too, so whether I’m pairing them with cargos, pants, or my baggiest pair of jorts, these just work. No hike required.
VIA: @KICKSFINDER
Anthony: Salomon XT-4 OG 'Fiery Red'
The 99X Made in USA is the king of comfort, and if this list was solely about comfort, my pick would be my New Balance 993 Grey (wide size, because I have hobbit feet). However despite my love for the grey-shoe look, they're not exactly the sneaker I reach for when I want my feeties to pop! That's why, at the intersection of comfort and looks, I reckon the XT-4 OG would be tough to beat.
When I need them to be an all-terrain hiking shoe, they've got me covered. When I need to have the loudest shoes in the room, they've got me covered.
Cesca: New Balance 990v4
When I want to slip on a pair that ticks multiple sensory boxes, I’m choosing a New Balance 990 every time. 'Which version, though?’ I hear you say. Thanks for asking. When it comes to the comfort and aesthetic stakes, I’m putting my money on the v4. The ENCAP cushioning and plush, mesh-suede combo make for a 360-degree treat for my feet, and the model's performance roots mean that should I need to break into a swift walk or even a slow jog (my fastest speed), I’m sorted. And when it comes to the way they look, you can’t tell me the whole of NBHQ didn’t break out in cheers of ‘We’ve done it!’ when they landed on that balance of overlays and underlays. A job well done indeed.
VIA: FOOTPATROL
Audrey: ASICS GEL-Kayano 20
In terms of style and comfort, for me it has to be the ASICS The resurgence of the model was very welcomed, and frankly one that we at SF had . Colab or a GR, this shoe not only looks good, but offers comfort for days.
Two colabs I am all for are the UNAFFECTEDs and the . GRs are a winner too – just head into a local spot and take your pick. Features that stand out for me are the arch and ankle support, but it’s also about the GEL – comfortable, yet not too soft.
Ollie: PUMA Speedcat
These bad boys dropped a year before I was born, so I’m sure you're wondering how they ended up as my go-to all the way over here in the big '25. Well, strap in, start your engines – ok no, I’m just playing!
To put it simply, the have just got that old-school vintage vibe I really like! There’s something about the super-low profile and buttery suede that just works with everything. They’re clean without trying too hard, and comfy in a way that makes other sneakers feel too chunky. Whether at the gym with some trackies or just catching up with friends in some baggy denim – they always hit perfect.
Between you and me, they have been a consistent compliment-getter amongst all the pairs of sneakers I own. The Speedcats were my go-to on my most recent trip to Vietnam, and safe to say they were as comfortable as it gets. It's kind of wild that a silhouette that’s over 20 years old still looks this beautiful...
Oli P: Nike x Tom Sachs Mars Yard 2.0
I’ve chosen the , which I got sent on launch day from in Bologna – big shout-out to Marco! This sneaker has become my universal go-to, worn across three continents and over 25 countries. The style strikes the perfect balance of rugged and sleek, making it versatile for both urban and outdoor adventures.
The comfort is unmatched – the Nike SFB outsole offers excellent support and durability, while the mesh upper keeps things breathable. The cork insoles add a touch of unique comfort that supports long wear with or without socks.
Whether I’m walking from showroom to showroom during Fashion Week or grabbing my favourite Gelato in Rome, it’s a sneaker that not only looks good but also feels fantastic on-foot. I’m eagerly awaiting the 3.0 later this year – I have high expectations for what’s next!