I Found an Even Comfier Version of Summer 2024’s ‘It’ Shoe You’re Missing Out On

Just try to walk through any city—New York, Paris, London—and not spot a pair of Mary Janes on someone who looks particularly stylish. That’s because they’ve been the ‘It’ shoe for the past year, spotted on some of the most fashionable celebs from Katie Holmes to Jennifer Lawrence. Mary Janes come in so many designs, from polished styles with a patent finish, squint-to-see mesh options, and the Sarah Jessica Parker-worn chunky heel variety. But there’s a more under-the-radar version of Mary Janes that’s suddenly getting a lot of traction: Mary Jane sneakers.

Unlike the original, this version offers loads of foot support, making them a great option for walking long distances when you’re sick of your Sambas. Just don’t let the name fool you: Mary Jane sneakers don’t necessarily look like sneakers at all—they just boast sneaker-like features including interior padding, blister-preventing heel pads, and a thick outsole with arch support. That means if you’re heading to a city this summer where you’ll be clocking upwards of 10,000 steps, these shoes will be your saving grace.

• Vivaia Claire Walker Mary Jane Sneakers, $97; vivaia.com
• Sorel Kinetic Impact II Mary Jane Sneaker, $125; zappos.com
• Dr. Scholl's Madison Mary Jane Sneaker, $100; nordstrom.com 
• Propet Travel Activ Mary Jane Sneaker, $75; amazon.com
• Skechers Engineered Knit Mary Jane Sneaker, $65; amazon.com

Vivaia Claire Walker Mary Jane Sneakers

These flats from Vivaia look the most like traditional Mary Janes, which is to say they’re on the daintier side and boast a thin buckle. You probably won’t even be able to tell the difference until you slip them on—then you’ll discover their padded insoles, arch support, blister-proof heels, and thick soles. In other words, they feel like your comfiest sneakers and look like your sweetest flats. Reviewers agree they’re ideal for travel in Europe when you’re guaranteed to be raking up your step count. “I’m headed to Europe next week and plan on taking them on my trip…so easy to pack and hardly takes up any space,” one person wrote. Another reviewer was impressed with how stylish a comfortable shoe can be, writing, “Obsessed with my Mary Jane Claire walkers. Finally a cute, supportive comfortable shoe that doesn’t look geriatric.”

Sorel Kinetic Impact II Mary Jane Sneakers

For a sporty version of a Mary Jane, try this pair from Sorel. They feature suede and mesh for a fun edge and an elastic strap with a hook-and-eye closure to allow for the perfect fit. The shoes are made out of moldable foam, which means they shape your feet for maximum comfort—just look at the reviews. “These are my current favorite shoes. Beyond comfortable,” wrote one shopper. “A lot of women stop [me] about my shoes! They are comfortable and the colors go with almost everything,” wrote another.

Dr. Scholl's Madison Mary Jane Sneaker

This platform Mary Jane looks like it comes straight out of the 90s—but boasts comfortable tech from the future. It has a cushioned footbed and offers arch padding to keep your feet secure and supported with every step you take. Its platform, which is just over 1-inch tall, offers a little height for those who aren’t into flats.

Propet Travel Activ Mary Jane Sneaker

If you want to embrace a sporty look, try this Amazon find. The lightweight shoes feature a perforated fabric, perfect for summer’s hottest (and sweatiest) days. They also boast a strap with a hook-and-loop closure, removable footbed, and flexible outsole for the most superior comfort. What’s more, reviewers say they’re super versatile. “I bought these shoes and wore them almost every day for three weeks touring Guatemala,” one shopper wrote. “They look cute with almost any outfit—dresses, skirts, shorts, hiking pants, jeans,” they added.

Skechers Engineered Knit Mary Jane Sneaker

These Skechers Mary Janes are another winner for the hottest days of the year when you have a lot on your itinerary. Made with a cooling soft woven fabric, they have thousands of five-star reviews on Amazon from customers gushing over their design.  “The most comfortable shoes that I can wear with a dress or pants,” one customer wrote. “They feel like I am wearing comfy slippers, and do not have any tight or rough spots.” What makes them so comfortable, you may ask? They’re designed with a memory foam cushion insole and flexible rubber outsole for a fit that rivals that of your most-loved sneaker.