Best Walking Shoes for Europe for Women in 2025
If you’ve ever walked miles through a European city in the wrong shoes, you know it’s a mistake you don’t want to make twice. Between uneven cobblestone streets, long sightseeing days, and unpredictable weather, your feet deserve better. That’s why I’ve rounded up the best walking shoes for Europe that are comfortable, stylish, and supportive enough to get you from one historic square to the next—without the blisters.
These are all fabulous options for women over 40 and 50, whether you’re planning to stroll the streets of Paris, climb the hills of Lisbon, or spend hours exploring Rome. I’ve updated this list for 2025 with my top picks based on comfort, versatility, and travel-readiness.
Heading to Europe this year? Check out these posts for outfit ideas:
Heading to Spain This Summer? Here’s What You Should Pack and Wear
What to Wear in Greece: Stylish Vacation Outfits for Women
How to Choose the Right Walking Shoe for Travel
The right walking shoe can make your European trip feel like a dream—or a disaster. You’ll be on your feet more than you think: exploring cities, navigating stairs, and strolling cobblestone streets. So trust me, it’s worth taking the time to find shoes that are supportive, breathable, and actually feel good to walk in.
Fit First: Get the Length and Width Right
Your shoes should feel comfortable right from the start. Don’t count on them to “break in” during your trip—they probably won’t, and no one wants to be nursing blisters on vacation.
When you’re trying shoes on, make sure there’s about a half-inch of space between your longest toe and the front of the shoe. You should be able to wiggle your toes without your foot sliding around. Pay attention to the width, too. Shoes that are too narrow can cause problems like calluses, bunions, and even bruised toenails after a long day on your feet.
Try the Toe and Heel Test
Still unsure about the fit? Try these two simple tricks:
- Walk down a sloped surface and push your toes forward. If they slam into the front of the shoe, it’s a no.
- Then go up a set of stairs, two at a time. If your heel lifts more than 1/8 inch, that’s a recipe for blisters.
Look for Lightweight and Flexible Shoes
Walking shoes should be lighter and more flexible than running shoes. You don’t need heavy soles or stiff support—what you need is a shoe that moves with you. A quick test: hold the shoe at the toe and heel and bend it. It should flex right under the ball of your foot. Then twist it gently side to side. You want some resistance—not too floppy, but not stiff as a board either.
This kind of flexibility helps when you’re walking across uneven surfaces like cobblestones or gravel paths—and it’s something your feet will thank you for after a full day out and about.
Arch Support Is a Must
Arch support helps reduce fatigue, keeps your balance in check, and can even prevent injuries like plantar fasciitis. Everyone’s arch is different—some high, some flat, some neutral—so it’s worth trying on a few options or getting advice from a good shoe store.
If you’re not sure what type of arch you have, bring in a worn pair of shoes and let a salesperson take a look. The wear patterns can tell you a lot about how you walk and what kind of support you need.
Don’t Overheat: Breathability Counts
If you’re walking all day in warm weather, breathability is a big deal. Shoes made from natural materials or mesh panels will help keep your feet cooler and drier. Tight shoes can trap heat and sweat, so getting the right fit here matters, too.
Padding Matters, But Balance Is Key
Look for shoes with cushioning that feels good but doesn’t make you feel unstable. Too much padding can feel squishy and throw off your balance. Too little, and you’re going to feel every cobblestone. Sometimes, a simple swap to a better insole is all you need to dial in the perfect amount of comfort.
Waterproof? Even Better
Weather in Europe can be unpredictable, even in summer. A light rainstorm or damp morning can sneak up on you, so waterproof shoes are a smart choice. Look for pairs with sturdy soles and sealed uppers that can handle a bit of water without soaking your socks.
Try Shoes On at the Right Time
Here’s a pro tip: always try on shoes in the late afternoon or evening, when your feet are at their most swollen. That’s the real-life fit you’ll be dealing with while traveling. And if one foot is bigger than the other (that’s more common than you think), always size to the larger foot.
Planning to wear socks or liners? Bring them when you try on the shoes. A small difference can change the fit completely.
The bottom line? Just like with jeans, sometimes you have to try a few pairs to find “the one.” So give yourself time, try different styles, and make sure your shoes are travel-tested long before you board the plane.
What Are the Best Walking Shoes for Europe in 2025?
Sneakers and Tennis Shoes
Ecco Soft 7 Sneakers
These sneakers are simple, stylish, and super comfy. The leather is soft, they give great support, and they go with almost everything. Great if you want one pair that does it all.
HOKA Clifton 9
These feel like clouds. If you need extra cushion or have foot problems, these are worth a look. They’re light but still sturdy, and great for long walking days.
Vionic Winny Sneakers
These are made with built-in arch support, which is great if your feet need a little help. They look like regular sneakers but feel more supportive—especially if you have bunions or flat feet.
Allbirds Tree Runners
These are soft, breathable, and super light. They’re perfect for warm weather and are made from natural materials. Bonus: you can throw them in the washing machine.
On Cloud 5
These have a sporty vibe and are known for their cushiony soles. They’re great for long walking days and come in fun colors too.
Taos Plim Soul Sneakers
These look like classic canvas sneakers but have way more support. You can even add your own orthotics if needed. They’re great for everyday wear.
Rothy’s Slip On Sneaker
Lightweight, washable, and made from recycled materials. These are perfect for travel and pack really small. They look polished but feel casual.
ABEO MXV Shift
These are great if you need shoes that match your arch type. You can choose the support that works best for your feet, and they still look stylish—not bulky or orthopedic.
Sandals
Naot Kayla Sandals
If you’re traveling in warmer months, pack these. They have a cork footbed that molds to your feet and the straps keep them nice and secure.
ECCO Flowt 2 Band Sandal
This sandal is sleek, simple, and surprisingly supportive. The cushioned footbed feels great underfoot, and the adjustable straps help you get the fit just right.
Aetrex Jess Orthopedic Sandals
With built-in arch support and adjustable straps, they’re perfect for long sightseeing days. If you deal with foot pain or need extra support, these are a game changer—and they still look cute.
Mary Janes
Vionic Uptown Mary Jane Flat
This Mary Jane is a great choice if you want comfort without going full sneaker. You get Vionic’s trusted orthotic technology wrapped in a shoe that works for both travel days and nicer dinners.
Propét Travel Activ Mary Jane
Lightweight, flexible, and super easy to pack, this Mary Jane is ideal for travel. The breathable mesh upper keeps your feet cool, and the velcro strap gives you a secure fit. It’s a sporty option that’s easy to walk in for hours.
Naturalizer Behold Mary Jane Ballet Flat
This one combines the elegance of a ballet flat with the stability of a Mary Jane. The strap adds a bit of extra support (especially great for cobblestones), and Naturalizer’s cushioned insole means you can wear them all day without aches.
Frequently Asked Questions
What shoes are best for walking in Europe in the summer?
In the summer heat, breathable and supportive shoes are a must. I recommend packing a pair of stylish walking sandals with arch support like the Naot Kayla. They’ll keep your feet cool while still giving you the structure you need for those long sightseeing days. If you’re not a sandal girl, a lightweight sneaker like the Allbirds Tree Runners or Rothy’s are a great pick—they’re breathable, washable, and easy to pair with casual outfits.
Are sneakers okay to wear in Europe?
Absolutely! Stylish sneakers are not only okay—they’re essential. European women wear them all the time, especially in larger cities where everyone’s on foot. Just skip anything bulky or gym-specific. Go for sleek, neutral sneakers like the Ecco Soft 7, Vionic Winny, or On Cloud 6 that blend function with a little fashion. These are perfect for museums, shopping streets, and even dinner with a casual dress.
What are the most comfortable shoes for walking all day in Europe?
The best shoes for walking in Europe are ones with great arch support, cushioned soles, and a secure fit that won’t leave you with blisters by mid-afternoon. Think of these as your walking companions—you want them to be reliable, supportive, and ready to go wherever the day takes you.
Have a favorite pair of shoes you’ve worn on a European trip? I’d love to hear what’s worked for you in the comments below!
Fabulous after 40 has affiliate partnerships. We receive compensation when you click and make a purchase at no additional cost to you. So, Thank You!
I used a pair of GoWalk to travel all over China a year ago. They were comfy for the most part. I only wish they had more half sizes and wide sizes in their line.
I am going to Italy first time ever. So many fashion questions BUT I was planning on Birkenstocks for walking shoes/sandals. We are going last week of August for a wedding in Lake Como (4 days) and then 3 days in Venice.
Packing lots of dresses- Lands End short breezy style
FYI I am 47-year-old aunt of the groom, my fiancée and I have never been out of the country!!
Any feedback on the BIRKS?
Hi Kathleen, I’m throwing this one out to my readers. While I have heard Birkenstocks are incredibly comfortable and need no work in time, I have never worn them myself. Personally, I just don’t care for the clunky look of them. Nonetheless, they are considered an excellent walking shoe for Europe, even on cobblestone streets. What do you say, ladies? Do you wear Birkenstocks when you travel and which ones would you recommend?
I have four pairs of Birkenstocks and do not think they are comfortable. I can only wear it for short periods. Go with a more cushioned shoe. They are not flattering shoes! Not sure why I bought them!
Always Birkenstock when I travel to the EU. Best for cobblestone and all-day wear.
I live in Vancouver BC & we have a very good shoe store that specializes in walking shoes, including shoes designed to accommodate orthotics. I wear prescription orthotics, & they carry several European brands which work really well for me, both in walking shoes, which are very nice looking, & very nice sandals – Finn Comfort, Mephisto, and also Semler. You can also check the shoe websites for dealers in your area. Some of them are so supportive, that I don’t even need to wear my orthotics.
The selection of shoes is very smart. My question is … are these sock-less shoes? If not, do you keep the color of the sock the same as with the shoe, ie? Mary Jane? I thinking of cooler weather travel. I don’t own a pair but have heard Blundtones footwear is very comfortable for travel. Your thoughts?
Thanks
Hi Robin, I have not heard of Blundtones but I looked them up and they are a unisex shoe, so not so feminine looking but they get good reviews. Has anyone else tried them? As for socks, I would wear all of the shoes with sockets so my feet wouldn’t get sweaty, but you wouldn’t be able to see the sock. In the case of a higher top l,ace-up runner ankle socks would be my choice.
Deborah: “seems it never rains in sunny California”, except it does occasionally and I am wondering what 74-year-old women with a size 10 shoe could wear that wouldn’t make me look like I was wearing my husband’s shoes, i.e. too masculine. I went out the other day in my suede boots and that was a no-no.
Hi Paula, what do you think of these waterproof sneakers? https://rstyle.me/n/c37p3zb52f7
Yes, they are suede but they are totally waterproof. I like the look of sneakers and I’m a size 8.5 and I don’t think they look like boats on me. Here’s a waterproof ballet flat if you prefer a finer shoe: https://rstyle.me/n/c37p5fb52f7
Oh my gosh..my tribe!! Skinny, painful, flat screaming feet…these are my people! After the hill towns of Portugal and the Cinque Terra, I may be headed for foot surgery, so shoe research has become an obsession. So far, the best choices for me are New Balance 990s…the dreaded trainer looks, Naot Kayla, Marilyn, and numerous other styles with cork footbeds….from the elegant collection. Monro Picies Sandal with elastic straps and cork footbed. Vionic sandals.,podiatrist-designed. The foot surgeon (yikes) suggested Hapad.com as a source for cushioning orthotics ($20 each) to put in every closed-toed pair of shoes. Arch support pads can be added as well. This winter I’ll be buying Monro Riley booties. All this just to get around town. Cobblestones…still working on that.
I don’t recommend anything that looks like a sports shoes for a European holiday, especially if you intend to eat in stylish cafes
I’m Parisian and I totally agree with Kristina,
Avoid wearing this kind of “comfy” shoes, they will add you 10 years at least! If you’re planning to travel in Europe. Better wear a good pair of sneakers on daytime and switch for a pair of heels for the evening! If you pay attention, you’ll notice that no woman here in Europe never wear these “walking” shoes…
I agree. I usually travel in the fall and winter so I wear boots, or pointy-toe flats with arch support. I find the pointier toe actually gives me MORE room in the toe area, instead of the rounded little girl-look ballet flat (which shortens the look of your leg). I can’t stand those Mary Jane shoes (just my opinion) — they scream tourist! and add about 20 years to your age. They also cut the foot making the ankle and leg look heavier.
When going out, I pack well-made foldable flats (from a shoe store, not the cheap drugstore brand) in my purse, and if I walk to a restaurant or theatre, put those on and then slip on my dressy heels when I arrive.
You definitely get treated better when you look like a local.
Any shoe that says “goes with everything” doesn’t really look fashionable with anything. Just sayin’…
Hi Victoria, I have to agree that a Mary Jane is for me, but so many of my readers love this style of shoe, and I do know they are super comfy. Sometimes comfort is more important especially if you have foot problems and are traveling. I’m going to look around and see what I can find that is new and different for travel so stay tuned in the next few weeks!
I find it somewhat concerning that none of the shoes you’ve suggested for long days of walking include any real support. I’m way past the Cinderella slipper point of life where I can take risks with my footwear, having sustained a lot of metatarsal bone damage and spinal stenosis. My suggestion would be to include brands that offer legitimate support and actually fit your foot (rather than very little support in dubious sizes you have to *make* fit—Evil Stepsister shoes). So far, the only brand that does both is Munro, although Clarks is offering more and more real support, but has more limited sizing. I have also found Mephistos to work very well in certain styles but not others. Eccos can be good, but not for very long (not long days of walking, in other words) since they usually lack real support.
Thanks for all the ideas in your article, and in the comments too..
I bought some Kopitarna sandals in Croatia, they’re made in Slovenia, and the most comfortable shoes I own… the footbed is awesome and soooo comfortable. I bought the Dana slip-ons with velcro adjustable tops; great for me because I have quite narrow feet. They are called “slippers” but they are leather sandals. I also need orthotic insoles for arch support, but I don’t need them when I’m wearing these.
They are now 6 years old and i just found today that they still make them – you can order them online here: https://www.kopitarna.com/
This article got me thinking. It seems I’m the only woman left out rocking flat shoes like this at my age.
I have flat feet and bunions, but a wonderful woman podiatrist introduced me to the possibilities for continuing to wear attractive shoes. I have orthotics for both flat shoes and shoes with heels. I look for shoes with non-flexing platforms and support for holding the foot in place. It’s a plus if the shoe also has a padded layer next to the foot, but I can accomplish that cushioning with a soft wool sock. I try shoes on constantly, and buy very few pairs.
Currently, I’m wearing Gentle Souls black ankle boots with a platform and 2-inch heel (plus heel orthotic inside). I’m also wearing 3 pairs of Fly London shoes which have the same rubbery , wavy platform bottom. One pair is a suede oxford, and I wear my heel orthotics with those. Two pairs are lace-up sandals (same platform), one khaki green, one silver They don’t have arch support, but you can add a little arch pillow if you need it). All 4 pairs of shoes can be worn with pants, skirts, dresses. For walking and pants/shorts only,
I also have a pair of Dansko sneaker-type shoes, tan with orange laces. They have Dansko arch support, etc, and I add my flat-shoe orthotic. I think similar shoes could work well for a traveler with similar foot problems to mine, since I stand and walk for work for 6 hours a day in mine several days a week.
I’m just like you! I gave found a Velcro dot on the bottom of the orthotic Helios hold it I lace. I have good luck with the shoe that has an actual back on it and a strap that goes across the front of the ankle.
Sooty became hugeely popular in the United Kingdom, Ireland, Australia, New Zealand.
Maryland Shoes has a website and catalog for narrow and wide sizes. Try that for hard to fit feet.
Like one of the others commenting on this post, I have a very slim foot. I used to wear a 10AAAA but now take an 11AAA A or SS. Unfortunately, this size has been discontinued by almost every manufacturer but Munro, and the recent pairs of Munro sandals I ordered were too wide in the heel to walk in comfortably. In the past week, I have ordered 5 pairs of shoes in hopes of finding one pair to walk in on vacation in Europe, but sadly, all five have gone back. None of the shoes featured here would be comfortable for me, or even safe, since my foot actually comes up out of a shoe that is too wide, and I have tripped over the shoe on more than one occasion. I hope that if enough of us slim-footed people complain to manufacturers and make our plight known on social media and sites such as this one, manufacturers will recognize that there is indeed a market out there for slim shoes. PS, manufacturers, my motto has always been “if the shoe fits, buy it in every color,” and I bet I am not alone.
I agree! I have narrow, flat feet with a very narrow heel. It’s extremely hard to find comfortable shoes. I buy multiples when I find something that fits. We need more manufacturers to realize there are many narrow feet out there to be fitted!
OMG! I’m not the only one with this problem! I’m only 27, but I have struggled with this problem since I was a kid! I am a size 39, but my feet are very slim…most of the time, I have to insert insoles inside shoes, and can rarely find shoes that fit properly..especially the case with sandals…it’s so frustrating especially when you are someone who likes to keep up with the fashion trends…Recently, I’ve also developed a chronic arch pain (plantar fascitis), probably due to the poor support…To make matters worse, there are very few to no options available in my country when it comes to comfortable/customized foot wear….
i’ve spent a fortune over the years buying wrong shoes, following peoples recommendations wrongly etc. i’m now 44yrs old and have finally learnt that my feet are for me to shop for and not to follow others, lol. i know my feet now and i have moulded orthotics and know i need a roomy toe box, good arch support and a decent cushioned sole not a super flat shoe. also great support over the top, not just one strap and definitely never a shoe with no over support. as much as cute little ballerina flats look nice they’re no good for my feet and if i wore them on a city exploring holiday i’d have various ailments in shins, calves, heels and hips and knees, at the very least. nowadays i put my footwear first and buy clothes that then work with them rather than the other way around. i dont care if it means i look like i’m on a hiking holiday all the time. its great to be free! good luck all. A proud Brit from South east of England. :-)
I would recommend the Ahnu Crissy II shoe, they look great with shorts, capris and skirts for daytime excursions. I spent 3 days sightseeing in NYC and these shoes didn’t disappoint. My heel is narrow, these shoes have great support in the heel and I had no problems with my heel slipping.
I wore Crocs Walu canvas loafers while walking extensively in Europe last year, as well as on subsequent trips, and love them! I’ve had many compliments from strangers when wearing them, especially with skinny jeans or crops.
My podiatrist recommended The “Traveler” shoe by Munro. I have neuromas so I need a roomy shoe. I have an orthopedic insert which I was able put into these and they were fantastic. I get terrible water retention when I fly so having the microfiber was a life saver since it simply stretches as your feet need more space. I walked all over Paris and London and these were great!
Hi Joan Thanks for that fantastic tip. I’m going to look for a pair to add to this post. Traveling is so much more fun when you don’t have to deal with aching feet! Cheers, Deborah
I went to Paris, London, and Hong Kong. I wanted fashionable walking shoes to wear with both skirts and trousers/shorts. I ended up with Hush Puppies Ivanka boat shoes and soft leather Hush Puppies mocassins with elastic around the back (I can’t find the name). They both needed to be broken in, which I did in advance, the boat shoes more than the mocassins, but once they were, they were brilliant. I wear them with or without socks (very important). The leather ones with elastic were good for flying as my feet and ankles got very swollen for the first time. I wore them day and night to non-fancy restaurants and never felt out of place anywhere.
Hi Alex,
Thanks for the recommendation. I’m sure it will be beneficial to my readers. You make a perfect point. Even the most comfortable walking shoes need to be broken in. That’s something many women forget and end up miserable for a couple of days with blistering heels.
Cheers! Deborah
Having a narrow foot, 3A to 4A width, and 6A heel, finding any comfortable shoes is a challenge. (Before age 40, my width was 5A.) I have tried Ecco, Clarks, Born, Sketchers, Soft Spots, Soft Walks, Naturalizer, Propet, Easy Spirit, etc. So far, Munro is the only brand that fits my narrow foot. Munro doesn’t have a good “walking shoe.” I have a high arch, so even in my Munro’s, I need extra arch support. Does anyone have a suggestion for walking shoes for me? These articles are beneficial!! Thank you.
I traveled thru France and Italy last September 2013. I wore several pairs of Joya shoes – lace-up, runner style for more heavy-duty walks like Cinque Terre and a couple of leather flatties called Delia which were great for walking around cities like Paris and Rome. I was also tempted to buy a pair of sandals called Malta Fire with the same dense, soft sole but decided against it. In hindsight, these would have been perfect for provincial towns, market days, and casual wear. Next time!!
This would be a perfect segway into one of my weekly “You Choose The Shoes” blog posts!
I have spent the past two weeks searching for comfortable, attractive shoes for a trip to Paris. I have discovered that there is no such thing as a beautiful, sturdy walking shoe. I finally decided to purchase Clark’s Wave Wheel – Wave Walk in black leather for grave daytime sightseeing and Clark’s Choir’s black leather Ballerina style flat for evenings. Those two styles were the most comfortable and least offensive walking shoes for me.
The best pair I could find for traveling in Rome for style and comfort are the Everlane Street Shoe or Street Sandal. The street shoe is a sporty classic loafer and is all leather and even though it’s sporty it has a dressier feel it has great support and is extremely comfortable. This is an all-around great shoe and even though I personally don’t own the street sandal, they are made with the same leather and sole, but in a sandal which I have also read reviews about how comfortable they are.
Keen brand. Waterproof, fast-drying, antibacterial, ergonomic footbed. Love them!
I do have to wear cushioned shoes, but I also like them to look pretty. I like the line Born, Clarks, and several others. Because of my disease, I miss being able to wear gorgeous heels, but I try to look at pretty shoes with stability and cushion. Another brand that is stylish but very well cushioned to go on a trip is Allegria. I like the ballet shoes you show.
I recently purchased a pair of sandals from Rockport. They are wonderful, very comfortable, and stylish! They are called: “Truewalkzero”…
My pet peeve and despair of human intelligence is shoes! Having been hard to fit ALL my life because my feet are wide made me think and shake my head.. I used to always buy BOYS shoes to get wide enough for me. But dressy? Had to have SOME more dressy stuff.. and in my 40’s oh yes, I began to get a BUNION.
I used to buy shoes too LONG for me in order to get wider fit. And STILL got a bunion going.
Then the internet came along and I discovered that I did not need size 8 1/2 shoes but only 7 1/2 WW. Oh bliss. Oh heaven. BUT… still, too many shoes with the over-rounded toe boxes!
Go ahead, trace your unspoiled grandchild’s foot.. it is NOT shaped like typical shoe’s toe boxes are. No, they are more duck-like! Yet from the time they grow out of toddler’s shoes, we cram our feet into rounded toes.
And make podiatrists RICH.
Women, revolt. We are not ancient China. We should be beyond foot deforming for “fashion”.
Try LEMS shoes. Try a new brand, name of “Hotter”. Try Propet, Drew, Dansko can be pretty good too if only they would lose the toe spring bit. Crocs… oh yes, crocs.
Lets’ stop the madness and creating new business for Podiatrists. I stopped my bunion in it’s tracks with proper shoes. I’m on a campaign to save the feet of my grandkids. Already, one of their fathers pitches fits at the one kid who kicks off her shoes saying OUCH.. the dad says OH stop that put them on they FIT.. NO dad they DO not.
LOL sorry but I don’t believe we should ruin our feet and with the internet and good shoes, we do not have to!
Try the above named brands if you have anything sore going on with your feet. You just might need W I D E not larger size!
I just got back from 2 weeks in Spain and Portugal, doing a lot of city hiking, and I have finally found the ideal travel walking shoe for me, the Keen Toyah. It is a leather sneaker-type shoe, but understated and doesn’t make you look like you are headed for the gym. Mine were brown suede, but they come in different attractive colors of leather and suede. They might not be ideal in hot weather if your feet tend to get hot and sweat, but I prefer a sturdy enclosed shoe that can accommodate my custom orthotics. I wore them with my orthotics and cushioned Smartwool hiking socks. My feet felt great even when the rest of me started to drag. I have yet to find a Mary Jane or ballerina that provides the kind of support I need for the way I punish my feet on vacation, and I have tried a lot. So, I will stick with my Keens and wear pants rather then skirts.
I LOVE those Lite Mary Janes especially that gray/mint combination. Great picks!
I’m super comfortable walking everywhere in my Teva flip flops. They have fabric, criss-cross straps and stay in place without any problems.
I walked all over London and Paris in my Merrell slides. They were the only shoes that worked for me.
I have to say this article made me a little sad. Apparently I am the ONLY woman over 40 in the world who can’t wear flats and would really appreciate if some shoemaker, somewhere, made a stylish looking walking shoe with a good support and at least an inch heel.
There are some quite nice wedge heeled walking shoes available. I don’t recommend anything that looks like a sports shoes for a European holiday, especially if you intend to eat in stylish cafes or hotels. Better to wear something with sports shoe support and a dress shoe outside
I can’t wear them either. In fact all the wearing I did of flats when I was younger has created the pain I am in now. I need a solid arch and a rich amount of heel cushioning because without it I feel as if my feet were broken.
Suzanne, try Naot brand shoes. I, too, need a solid arch and these are the only ones that seem to have them. Does anyone else require a shoe with an arch? If so, what brand works?