Some teachers have a hard time fitting into their shoes. If you’re one of those people, you’ve probably tried everything from multiple pairs of insoles to arch supports and dress shoes with wide toe boxes. But what if your problem isn’t just discomfort? What if your feet are just too big for regular shoes?
If you wear a men’s size 13 or larger, it’s tough to find comfortable shoes that fit well. But you don’t have to settle for clunky work boots or expensive custom-made footwear — there are some great options out there for big feet!
Here’s our list of the best shoes for overweight teachers:
New Balance 756 V3 – These shoes have a roomy toe box and low heel which makes them perfect for anyone with wide feet or high arches. They’re also lightweight and breathable so they won’t make your feet feel hot or sweaty during the summer months.
Clarks Wallabee – These classic lace-up boots are stylish and comfortable. They come in various widths so they’ll be sure to fit your foot no matter how wide it is! They’re also waterproof so they’ll keep your feet dry when it rains outside (but they won’t keep them warm when it gets cold outside).
Best Shoes For Overweight Teachers
The Best Shoes for Teachers 2022
1. Allbirds
We consistently hear from teachers—both women and men—who love their Allbirds. They’re ultra-comfortable, plus they’re made with planet-friendly natural materials. Kindergarten teacher Keri Brown says, “Wearing my Allbirds, it felt like I was walking on clouds.” Check out her full review of Allbirds Wool Loungers.
This is another popular brand that gets a ton of mentions any time we ask teachers about comfy shoes. Tracy W. raves, “I wear Hokas every day at this point. I have 3 pairs and rotate through them.” Alayne P. adds, “It’s like walking on a cloud!”
3. Hot Chocolate Chocolaticas
Could there be any teacher shoes cuter than these? They’re comfy on their own but also have room for your own insoles if you need a little more support.
4. UGG Shoes
You’re probably familiar with the ubiquitous UGG boots, but they make plenty of other comfortable shoes too. “They actually sell really cute other styles,” says Krit S.
5. Sanuk Slip-Ons
“I’m obsessed with Sanuk’s shoes with footbeds made from yoga mats. Foot heaven! I even got my husband (he’s a teacher, too) into the men’s Sanuk line.” —Tonia K.
6. Hey Dude Shoes
Struggling to find shoes for wide feet? Give these a try. They’re made with a rounded, flexible toe space and have stylish options for men and women. Janet S writes, “I could teach in them every day!”
7. Clarks Pumps
“I don’t know what I will do if Clarks stops making their pump style. These look as good with jeans as they do with skirts and can even pass as a heel on days I need to dress up. They are so comfortable, too.” —Sharon S.
8. Dansko Flats
Teachers love Danskos! “I’ve worn the Dansko brand for many years, and they’re a great option.” —Michele H.
9. Amazon Ballet Flat
Dara K. tried these and really loves the price (under $25). An Amazon reviewer agrees. “I am a public school teacher who stands (and sometimes runs) 9+ hours a day while at work. These shoes are insanely comfortable and did not need any ‘breaking in.’ They fit like a well-worn and loved ballet slipper from the first moment I put them on.”
10. Lucky Brand Shoes
Kristi B. writes, “I swear by Lucky Brand shoes! All of my teaching shoes are Lucky!” And here’s a five-star Amazon review: “I love these boots. I can wear them all day at work. As a teacher, that speaks volumes!”
11. Skechers BOBS Shoes
Beth D. says she loves BOBS shoes with inserts (check out our list of the best shoe inserts). Plus, we love all the different (and affordable) options. Look at that puppy print!
12. Skechers Microburst
You’re going to see Skechers on the list a few times, and it’s because teachers keep recommending them to us over and over again. Here’s a great slip-on to consider, backed by this review: “I am a teacher, constantly on my feet. These shoes are perfect for such an active job. They have the feel of a tennis shoe and the look of ballerina flats.”
13. BZees
“BZee shoes by Naturalizer are absolutely amazing!!! Not only are they comfy beyond description, they’re also machine washable!” —Kathy H.
14. Keen Shoes
Keens are solid go-to teacher shoes for men and women. If you live in a warm area, you can wear their sandals year-round. Otherwise, keep an eye out for other Keen boots and slip-ons like these.
15. Dream Pairs
When you need a more formal shoe for awards days or open houses, these low-heeled pumps fit the bill. “Great work-to-evening shoe, even for a teacher,” notes one Amazon reviewer. “These are extremely comfortable and stylish!” They also have sleek flats for those who prefer to go without any heel.
16. Rockport Men’s Shoes
This is a brand that’s long been trusted by many who wear men’s shoes. “All my shoes for school are Rockport. They never let me down.” —John M.
17. Ollio Oxford
They come in multiple colors, and you can dress them up or down. “I’m always wearing these oxfords, and they’re affordable.” —Roxanne M.
18. LifeStride Shoes
This real teacher review from Amazon tells you everything you need to know: “I am writing this review as a teacher who walks and stands from 8 a.m. to 1 p.m., with a mask on, teaching active second-graders in the time of COVID. It is great that I don’t have to worry about my shoes.”
19. Dr. Martens
“I love my (clean and well-polished) Doc Martens,” Olivia C. says. “Very comfortable and as professional as I need to be.” Check out this rave review from Amazon: “I am a 50-year-old female school teacher. I wasn’t sure I could pull off wearing these to work. Let me tell you, these are the best shoes I have purchased in a very long time! They are so incredibly comfortable. I wore Docs back in the ’90s. I’m so glad I get to enjoy them again. Buy the shoes! You won’t regret it!”
20. Born Shoes
Katie R. works at a shoe store, and she says she always recommends the Born brand of shoes for people who need good support. The Julianne is super-cute and comes in a variety of colors, and check out the fringe on their Danni boots!
21. Earthies Shoes
We’ve heard from many teachers on Facebook that they like the Earthies brand of shoes. Here’s one teacher’s opinion: “I love these shoes! I have plantar fasciitis, and these are the only flats I can wear and not have any pain. I’m a teacher, so I am on my feet all day. I can wear these, and when I go home, my feet feel the same as they did when I went to work. It’s amazing!”
22. UIN Painted Canvas Slip-Ons
Looking for comfy teacher shoes to show off your personality? These come in a huge selection of fun colors and designs. And they’re well reviewed too: “I absolutely love these shoes! They are uber-comfortable, and I get compliments on them wherever I wear them. I’ve worn them teaching and setting up a classroom and have spent a lot of time on my feet. These did not disappoint me!”
23. Crocs Flats
Yup, those Crocs! Turns out they make all sorts of styles that are just as comfortable as their well-known clogs. “I have Crocs flats in every color and print.” —Amy C.
24. Dr. Scholl’s Shoes
“I have arthritis in my hips, sciatica, and plantar fasciitis, and I live in Dr. Scholl’s,” Amy Y. told us. The Giorgie ballet flats come in classic black and brown, or you can dress things up with the aptly named Ruler loafers.
25. SafeTstep
Shannon H. likes this line of slip-resistant shoes made for food-industry workers. There are some downright cute styles available.
26. Merrell Clogs
“I wear Merrell clogs all winter,” shares Brenda W. We can see why! They’re comfy but professional enough for the workplace.
27. Timberland Pro
“I like the Timberland anti-fatigue clog,” Denise A. told us. Timberland’s Pro line is meant to protect and support your feet all day long.
28. Rothy’s
This is another brand that many teachers love and one you can feel good about. These adorable and comfortable shoes are made from recycled water bottles—a lesson in sustainability. Yes, they can be pricey, but teachers do get a discount.
29. Vans Leather Slip-On
“My go-to is the Vans slip-on in leather. It’s a weather-resistant sneaker with great arch support that looks stylish and polished but feels like the weekend.” —Chris C.
30. Earth Origins
We see this brand shoe popping up again and again for great shoe recommendations, and these are two of our favorites.