The Best Loafers For Women That Scored High Marks With Our Experts (2024)

Molly Calhoun

Contributor

Opinions expressed by Forbes Contributors are their own.

Sizes: 5 to 12 | Colors: 4 total, including Black and Brown | Materials: Leather

• What’s notable: Cushioned insole, reasonable price and high-quality leather.
• What could be better: These run a little big.

Madewell is well-known for their stylish-yet-affordable clothing and accessories, and The Bradley Lugsole Loafer is no exception. They’re constructed of genuine leather and have a thick rubber sole for added traction. Reviewers praise this shoe’s cushioned interior and say they’re comfortable to wear for long periods of time. If they feel tight right out of the box, wearing them with thick socks helps them stretch out. They’re offered in four colors and a wide range of sizes.

What the reviews say: Most reviewers find these easy to wear, saying “with a thin sock, they were as comfortable as any sneaker. And the large sole provided a really excellent cushion when walking for miles on cobblestones and pavement,” but some noticed quality and fit issues, saying there’s a risk for blisters yet this is often the case with many leather shoes.

Sizes: 5 to 13 | Colors: 12 total, including Gray and Orchid | Materials: Recycled plastic bottles

• What’s notable: Comfortable from the first wear, flexible knit and sustainable design.
• What could be better: This pair runs a little small.

Rothy’s is well known for its washable shoes made from 100% recycled plastic bottles. The footbeds, insoles and outsoles on their shoes also happen to be extremely comfortable and cushioned, making them great for walking long distances. The top-rated Loafer is made from the same knit fabric as their bestselling flat, so you can expect the same softness and breathability. The free shipping on all orders is a nice bonus, too.

What the reviews say: Many like The Loafer for its “great fit and comfort,” that they can be worn “all day without a thought” and for how they “fully hold up in the washing machine—I’ve prob washed mine 20 times and they still look brand new.” Many, however, say shipping is slow and they’re not supportive for long hours of wear: “These shoes are completely flat to the ground.”

Sizes: 5 to 11 | Colors: 2 total, including Black and Camel | Materials: Leather

• What’s notable: Classic style that’s easy to dress up or down and the stacked heel adds comfort.
• What could be better: Only available in two colors.

A good work shoe should be comfortable, durable and stylish—and Everlane’s The Modern Loafer checks all of those boxes and more. The one-inch stacked heel and cushioned insole provide enough comfort for all-day wear, and the leather feels soft right out of the box. Both the black and camel colorways pair well with office outfits and transition nicely if you’re headed to a post-work happy hour or event.

What the reviews say: Many praise these for their “amazing quality and fit” with “no breaking in required,” and how they’re “the perfect balanced of polished and casual.” Some note quality issues, saying “after two wears, the leather insole liner started to peel from the toe part” and “the color was very muted compared to the pictures [online].”

G.H. Bass Whitney Weejuns Loafer

Sizes: 5 to 11 | Colors: 2 total, including Black and Wine | Materials: Leather

• What’s notable: Chic classic that never goes out of style and is built to last.
• What could be better: This has less padding than other options on our list.

It doesn’t get more classic than G.H. Bass’s Whitney Weejuns loafers. These impeccably designed penny loafers remain true to the original created in the 1930s with a traditional beefroll style moc stitching and fully functional penny keeper. The hand-stitching, durable leather outsole and flexible unlined upper makes them comfortable and built to last for years.

What the reviews say: These are “a flashback to my youth and I just love them,” and they’re “super comfortable and no break-in time.” Some had minor fit issues though, saying “I had to order a half size down,” and “they will feel slightly tight at first but loosen up pretty quickly to slip on and off for a great fit.”

Cole Haan Lux Pinch Penny Loafer

Sizes: 5 to 11 | Colors: 6 total, including Black and Pecan | Materials: Leather, synthetic |

• What’s notable: Classic design, high-quality leather and built-in arch support.
• What could be better: Runs a bit large.

The triple-padded footbed on the Cole Haan Lux Pinch Penny Loafer makes a noticeable difference in the arch support area. Having extra cushioning gives you bounce with each step, and the flexible leather ups the comfort level. The subtle gold hardware on the side is just a nice detail.

What the reviews say: “I get compliments every time I wear these. They’re super comfortable and well made” and “it was love at first sight,” but some found fit issues, saying “this shoe runs extremely large” and “I had these on for 2 hours and once I removed them had blisters on both heels.” Our advice: Wear socks and break them in gradually.

Sizes: 35 (US 5) to 43 (US 12) | Colors: 11 total, including Saddle and Red | Materials: Suede

• What’s notable: Grippy sole provides traction and the soft suede molds to your foot.
• What could be better: Some find this shoe a bit narrow.

M. Gemi’s driving loafer, The Felize, is a beautifully constructed shoe that’s soft, flexible and molds to your foot. Originally used for driving, this style of loafer is characterized by its moccasin-like appearance and a rubber sole with “bumps” for better traction. The hand stitching and bold colorways, like pink coral and Tuscan sun, put a modern twist on the traditional look.

What the reviews say: This loafer is “the most comfortable shoe I own,” “can be worn casual or dressy,” and is “a real treat for my feet and a terrific addition to my wardrobe.” Some found the shoe runs “narrow and offer[s] no support” and “I just wished it came in wide width.”

Naturalizer Adiline Loafer

Sizes: 6 to 11 | Colors: 5 total, including Black and Brown | Materials: Leather, suede

• What’s notable: Extra cushioning absorbs impact and ergonomic design molds to your foot.
• What could be better: Some say this pick runs a little big.

For a stylish option that’s comfortable right out of the box, we recommend the Naturalizer Adiline Loafer. The brand is know for designing shoes that fit the natural curve of the foot and this particular loafer has a thick outsole, contoured footbed that will mold to your foot over time and breathable goring (i.e. stretch panels) on the sides.

What the reviews say: Reviewers like these as a “great everyday shoe” that’s “lightweight” and “excellent for when you stand on your feet for a long time,” while some noticed “there was no arch support at all” and “it was too wide on the sides.”

Franco Sarto Carolynn Lug Sole Loafer

Sizes: 5 to 13 | Colors: 9 total, including Black Suede and Silver | Materials: Leather

• What’s notable: Stylish, lightweight and great for standing on your feet all day.
• What could be better: The leather might stretch over time.

Franco Sarto’s Carolynn Tassel Loafer is more than a good-looking shoe. It’s designed to withstand high impact with a 1.5 inch platform that actually supports your foot by keeping it on an even, elevated plane. Buyers say this loafer is surprisingly walkable and light.

What the reviews say: This is a “beautiful shoe that fit true to size. Good arch support and sole” and they’re “chunky but not obnoxious. Comfy, cute, versatile,” but some report sizing issues, saying “I got the extra wide and I couldn't get my foot half way in.”

Sizes: 3 to 14 | Colors: 9 total, including Indigo Suede and Garnet | Materials: Suede or calf hair

• What’s notable: Beautiful suede design that comes in multiple widths and emphasizes comfort.
• What could be better: These are on the expensive side.

Whether you’re headed to the office or even a wedding, The Penny is a dressed-up version of the classic penny loafer, cut from rich suede (and there’s one stylish calf hair option). The slip-on design has an elongated toe and comes in three different widths (medium, narrow and wide). The brand also includes a shoe horn inside each box to help your loafers slide on. It’s a thoughtful touch that shows an attention to detail that’s not common with all brands.

What the reviews say: “Fit perfect-true to size. I walked for a long time in the city and they are incredibly comfortable,” with “very soft leather that will form fit with a few wears,” but a few found that the shoe “just needs a bit of time to break them in.”

Sizes: 5 to 13 | Colors: 29 total, including Black Velvet and Oak Suede | Materials: Leather, suede, velvet, raffia or calf hair

• What’s notable: Generous width can fit many foot sizes, and it has a cloud-like padded insole.
• What could be better: No width option for those with narrow feet.

Supremely soft and comfortable, these loafers are perfect for those seeking a little extra room. Their slip-on design is less structured than other iterations on this list—i.e. Madewell’s Bradley Lugsole Loafer and G.H. Bass’s Whitney Weejuns—and they run slightly wide. (The brand recommends going down a half size if you’re in between sizes or have a narrow foot.) Choose from leather, suede, velvet, calf hair or one of the limited edition fabrics like raffia.

What the reviews say: Many like these for their comfort: “These are perfect. I’ve been walking 8+ miles per day in them and not one blister or break in period. I will be buying more,” and “so comfortable, stylish and well-fitting.” However, many have fit issues, saying to size up.

Sizes: 4 to 14 | Colors: 2 colors total, including black and white | Materials: Leather

• What’s notable: Impeccable leather construction and easy, slip-on style.
• What could be better: The price point is high.

Featuring a slip-on design, delicately pointed toes and gold horse-bit hardware, Gucci’s loafer is a bestselling style that’s worth the luxury spend. Reviewers recommend sizing up because this loafer runs small. The legendary Italian house also makes a version of this mule in suede and printed canvas, if you’re feeling adventurous.

What the reviews say: “Beautiful pair of shoes. True to size. Simple yet elegant. Leather is supple. Very comfortable. No breaking-in needed as these shoes feel like it is customized to your feet,” while some say the support is lacking, saying wearing them “is similar to walking on a wooden board. Not much cushion for the ball of the foot and my feet hurt after wearing them.”

Vionic Kensley Loafer

Sizes: 5 to 12 | Colors: 10 total, including Brown and Cream | Materials: Leather, microfiber

• What’s notable: Supportive design with arch support that doesn’t sacrifice comfort for style.
• What could be better: Some reviewers report that it runs large in the heel area.

Vionic’s shoes are designed with podiatrists to maximize foot comfort, along with style. The bestselling Kensley Loafer has enhanced arch support, thanks to the microfiber-wrapped EVA footbed and supportive leather exterior that reduces discomfort and inflammation. The slight lugsole and smooth leather provides a stylish edge.

What the reviews say: These loafers are “very comfortable and keep my cranky feet happy,” with “great arch support and and will make you look sophisticated with your fall fashion.” Some note a narrow fit: “even ordering the wide width, they were too narrow in my regular size.”

Coach Leah Loafer

Sizes: 5 to 11 | Colors: 4 total, including Black and Dark Green | Materials: Leather

• What’s notable: Walkable design that you can wear all day and pairs well with many outfits.
• What could be better: Silhouette might be too chunky for some.

If you’re looking for a little extra height, Coach’s ‘90s favorite, the Leah Platform Loafer, has a 1-inch platform and 0.75-inch heel, which elevates your foot but still keeps the overall design very wearable. The chunky style anchors everything from jeans to a maxi skirt to a flowy dress.

What the reviews say: “Love, love, love the style and color—beautiful shoe and will last a long time,” but some say “the sizing is confusing—they are very stiff and narrow, but if you size up the heel would slip off. I wore them around my room (with socks) and they still hurt my toes.” One user says “size up half a size if you don’t have narrow feet.”

Sam Edelman Loraine Loafer

Sizes: 5 to 12 | Colors: 50 in total, including Black Patent and White | Materials: Leather

• What’s notable: Sleek, flat-style design with foam insole for comfort.
• What could be better: Traditional look might not appeal to all.

If you want an attractive loafer that’s comfortable for everyday wear but doesn’t cost a fortune, Sam Edelman’s Loraine Loafer is a solid pick. Similar to our best loafers for women overall, they’re crafted from 100% leather and have a cushy foam insole that’s supportive for walking. The understated design coupled with gold hardware is sophisticated, and this pick comes in an extensive range of colors, so you can find the shade that works best for your wardrobe.

What the reviews say: This is a “classic-look loafer with very nice, soft leather that has a little bit of give and should conform to foot a bit” and “they were comfortable right out of the box and have gotten even softer with time,” while some note leather quality issues, saying “Cute shoes, but significant signs of wear after just a few days.”

Madden Girl Hoxtonn Loafer