If you're anything like us at Shop TODAY, you've never shied away from an 'ugly shoe,' especially if they are in style and comfortable. So when we learned that sneaker wedges were coming back into style, the office was a buzz about the controversial trend.
Sneaker wedges first burst onto the fashion scene in the early 2010s and were worn by supermodels, celebrities and suburbanites alike. They were the 'It' shoe of the moment and loved by all for their comfort and style. Then, just like many fashion trends, they disappeared into the ether archive, only to resurface now in 2025.
Search interest in 'sneaker wedges' has been peaking on Google in the last three months with breakout searches for 'Puma speedcat wedges,' 'Steve Madden wedge sneakers' and more. While the original sneaker wedge was made famous by the designer Isabel Marant, you can now find similar styles from affordable retailers that are just as fashionable and have added comfort features. And just like in the 2010s, they are selling out fast.
To learn more about this divisive resurgence of the sneaker wedge, we spoke with podiatrists about the comfort and health of the shoe and a stylist about how to best participate in the trend.
What are sneaker wedges and how to style them?
Sneaker wedges are a hybrid shoe that combines the features of a flat sneaker and a wedge, characterized by a sloped heel. Instead of laces, this design normally has velcro or straps to keep your feet secure in the shoe. Most of the styles we are seeing currently have an average heel height of around 2.5 inches. Stylist, Samantha Brown says, "Sneaker wedges are a great mix of comfort and practicality, which appeals to so many!"
In the early 2010s, they were worn with leggings and pants for a model-off-duty look. For a more modern take, Brown recommends wearing them with a trendy wide-leg pant, "I’d balance the sneaker with clean lines." She emphasizes that they are not a formal shoe, so you should avoid wearing them in formal attire situations like holiday parties or work events.
What podiatrists say about sneaker wedges
If you're concerned about whether your feet will hurt in sneaker wedges, we asked two podiatrists to learn more about the comfort and health of your feet. When it comes to finding comfort in sneaker wedges, Dr. Suz Heals of Luxe Podiatry says to "Look for sneaker wedges made from high-quality materials that offer cushioning and breathability, such as leather or high-grade synthetic fabrics. Features like gel insoles or memory foam can significantly enhance comfort levels."
Similarly, Dr. Anne Sharkey is a big fan of sneaker wedges and says that to find the most comfortable pair, you should "Look for a style that gently slopes from heel to forefoot (rather than a steep slope) so that pressures can be more evenly distributed (akin to our natural distribution of pressures) across the foot." She also mentions that you should consider a pair with a cushioned midsole with shock absorption and arch support.
I asked both experts if they think sneaker wedges could be worn all day — the short answer is, it depends! Sharkey says, "Overall, yes, a well-designed and comfortable sneaker wedge could be worn all day. If the wedge is moderate in height, gentle in slope, has ample cushioning and adequate support, most people can wear them comfortably all day or for extended periods of time." Heals says to switch off between flats if you start to feel uncomfortable in the shoe.
Both doctors say that you should avoid sneaker wedges if you have flat feet, significant pronation, bunions, hammer toes or conditions like plantar fasciitis. Sharkey says this trend is super fun and to "Think of this as a hybrid shoe — more supportive than a traditional heel but not quite as functional as a true athletic shoe."
Expert-loved sneaker wedges
Sharkey recommends these wedge sneakers for those who are looking to participate in the trend. For added comfort, they have a cushioned insole. Pair them with an athleisure look or jeans for running errands.
If you want a pop of color in your footwear, this trendy butter-yellow pair is a great option. They have a woven side panel that adds some flair to the design. Sharkey also recommends this pair for comfort. Reviewers also stated how they liked the hidden wedge in this design.
If you want a more upscale sneaker wedge, go for this podiatrist-approved pair. These shoes have a cushioned footbed and the brand's pillow-walk technology inside to make sure you walk comfortably. The croc-embossed shoe looks great with jeans or a leather bag.
Skechers is an editor-loved brand, and Sharkey also recommends this pair as a podiatrist. They have a soft knit material that makes it easy for them to stay on without the need for laces. They also have a memory foam footbed to add extra comfort. The wedge has chic gold accents on it that make it look more upscale.
If you want a trendy pair of sneaker wedges, this new pair from Steve Madden has recently come out and has been selling quickly. Brown recommends this pair for their fun color patterns and popular suede details. Heals also recommends this pair and says they "offer a plush suede exterior and cushioning for all-day wearability."
Editor-loved sneaker wedges
Shop TODAY's deputy managing editor, Jess Bender, recommends this pair from Michael Kors that has fun denim accents. The shoe also shows the iconic Michael Kors logo. Reviewers say they are comfortable and refined.
Bender also recommends this shiny pair that will add a little sparkle to your footwear. They also feature the Michael Kors logo and have a leather look that makes them more upscale than regular sneakers.
While not a conventional sneaker with a wedge, this innovation is a fun take on the trend and if you love the look of a classic heel, but don't want to deal with the discomfort, this pair from Sneex will be your new favorite shoe. They were recently featured on Oprah's Favorite Things list and have been loved by reviewers for their toe box and arch support.
Writer Jannely Espinal owns a pair and says of the shoes, "The toebox and overall construction are sturdy while the heel offers an elevated feel." She adds that they're not the best for long walks or days where you'll be on the go all day, but she has found them to be comfortable after five hours of wear.
More sneaker wedges to shop
Inspired by the sneaker wedges of the 2000s? Try these sneakers that look just like the popular pairs from years ago. They also have an added plush insole for your foot support. One reviewer said, “Wore them all day and no complaints here with the comfort.”
If you want something that is a little more sneaker than wedge, try this pair from Puma. They have a sloped wedge that is a platform style. And truthfully, you can never have enough white sneakers.
If you’re a fan of Converse, you probably wouldn’t even be able to tell these sneakers have a hidden wedge in them. The Ortholite footbed adds plush comfort while you walk. Who doesn’t love a pair of Converse that makes you a bit taller?!
A winter boot, a sneaker and a wedge ... all in one! These shoes are perfect for your winter wardrobe style. If you plan on wearing them in the snow, they have a slip-resistant outsole. Wear them with some jeans and a flannel for a perfect winter outfit.
How we choose
The Shop TODAY team spoke with podiatrists and a style expert about the popular sneaker wedge trend to learn more about the style and foot health of the trend. We chose pairs of sneaker wedges based on expert recommendations, editor recommendations and reviews.
Meet the experts
At Shop TODAY, our reporters interview a range of qualified sources and experts to capture a wide scope of perspectives on the best sneaker wedges. We also make sure that all expert guidance and recommendations are made independently and with no undisclosed financial conflicts of interest.
- Samantha Brown is a stylist and the owner of Samanthabrownstyling.com.
- Dr. Anne Sharkey is a podiatrist and the owner of Solely Podiatry.
- Dr. Suz Heals of Luxe Podiatry.
