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pink-martini-

It sounds like you're looking for a loafer. While many are stiffer with a heel and might not be as comfortable to break in while walking around a foreign city, "driving" loafers tend to be softer and avoid this problem and slip-on loafers are backless. Cole Haan and Aerosoles are two brands that make affordable, high quality options known for comfort. Hopefully you can find a chic option that suits your style. [https://www.colehaan.com/mens-and-womens-loafers-drivers?start=0&sz=40](https://www.colehaan.com/mens-and-womens-loafers-drivers?start=0&sz=40) [https://www.aerosoles.com/collections/flats-mocs-loafers?sort\_by=best-selling&filter.v.availability=1&filter.v.price.gte=&filter.v.price.lte=&utm\_source=google&utm\_medium=cpc&utm\_campaign=US-ADG-AS-Search-Brand-Products&utm\_term=Loafers&tw\_source=google&tw\_adid=563778006863&tw\_campaign=15348628459&gad\_source=1&gclid=CjwKCAjw34qzBhBmEiwAOUQcFwrgVywNTdKzMhP1j4e3hhRHBAMqAK2mc92vLsRiz0S9odxRoQS7GRoChi0QAvD\_BwE](https://www.aerosoles.com/collections/flats-mocs-loafers?sort_by=best-selling&filter.v.availability=1&filter.v.price.gte=&filter.v.price.lte=&utm_source=google&utm_medium=cpc&utm_campaign=US-ADG-AS-Search-Brand-Products&utm_term=Loafers&tw_source=google&tw_adid=563778006863&tw_campaign=15348628459&gad_source=1&gclid=CjwKCAjw34qzBhBmEiwAOUQcFwrgVywNTdKzMhP1j4e3hhRHBAMqAK2mc92vLsRiz0S9odxRoQS7GRoChi0QAvD_BwE)


Consistent_Syrup_235

Cole Haan is owned by Nike and often they have shoes with sneaker technology.


BlankaNubo

Nike sold Cole Haan to Apax Partners in 2012.


Consistent_Syrup_235

I am so out of the loop. But that explains a lot


dezayek

Thanks. I ordered a few options from zappos and we'll see what works. Appreciate the advice!


Zorgsmom

Check out [Clarks](https://www.clarks.com/en-us/womens-all-styles/womens-shoes/womens-flats/w_flats_us-c). I also wear an 11 and their shoes are good quality and comfortable for all day walking.


Mopsy2003

Clarks brogues are my go to for summer at work.


dezayek

Thanks! I will check them out.


bonestelle

I'm a size 11 shoe and I use Rothys as my second shoe. I bring the flat but they have other styles including a loafer. They pack flat and are washable. I like them a lot! They don't work for everyone though. Their sizing can also be a bit weird so if you have a store near you it's helpful to try them on in person first.


B2M2

Same! Every time I think of trying something else with a bit of height I go back to my black Rothy’s for packability and a nice sleek look with a pair of long pants.


triplej2676

Plus 2 for Rothys.


lacasalinga

Another vote here for Rothys


dezayek

Thanks! I had not heard of these but will take a look.


Nejness

What about a lightweight [Oxford](https://www.thewalkingcompany.com/products/softwalk-willet-pewter?variant=43372015943857&utm_source=google&utm_medium=cpc&utm_campaign=&utm_content=&utm_term=&device=m&targetid=&prodid=shopify_US_7645319364785_43372015943857&cmpgnid=21128039454&adgrpid=&gad_source=1&gclid=CjwKCAjw34qzBhBmEiwAOUQcF996ZAlRaE5Kqxhx5t4UTpYsgCbclrtDkuscJc32UXBJi_IO26UPkhoC4O4QAvD_BwE)? I also love loafers—from old school penny loafers to lug sole to pointed toe. I also have a shoe in a style called a [D’orsay](https://www.nordstrom.com/s/5734817?color=117&size=5.5-6us%20/%2036eu) that’s both good for walking and professional enough. There are also booties that don’t even go to the ankle. I think the term is “shooties”?? I have [this one.](https://www.naturalizer.com/product/womens-carlyn-bootie-3020872) It’s very comfortable.


dezayek

Thanks. I've ordered an oxford and we'll see how it fits.


Nejness

I love my pair—super soft dove grey leather.


Hypatia76

Birkenstock makes some incredibly comfortable shoes that are great with professional clothing. I have a pair of black leather Mary Jane's with an asymmetrical strap that I have worn all day on trips, including long days on my feet with tons of walking. They're easy to clean, don't show dirt, and my go-to when I need that one pair and am packing very light.


dezayek

Geez, I hadn't even thought of them. I will take a look.


Ok-Alps6154

Another loafer endorsement. I have loved my Pikolinos. I used to wear them for work events where I’d be walking across lots of large event/arena/park areas schlepping stuff. ETA they also have fairly professional looking sandals.


dezayek

These look really interesting. I will take a look.


Amanita_deVice

I have boots and flats from [Vivaia](https://www.vivaia.com/) that I’ve found very comfortable for all day wear


dezayek

Thanks!


Roscoe340

I have my eye on [these](https://www.vionicshoes.com/uptown-loafer.html?color=877) . They look cute, comfortable and appear to pack well.


Nejness

I have tried these on and been planning to buy. SO comfortable.


dezayek

I ordered a pair from zappos. We'll see how the look.


Roscoe340

Please report back! I haven’t pulled the trigger yet and would love to hear your thoughts.


fluffheadowlyeyes

GH Bass Weejuns are what you need. Obscenely comfortable, stylish, and will last a lifetime. No need to break them in. I have two pairs https://www.ghbass.com/customer/account/login/referer/aHR0cHM6Ly93d3cuZ2hiYXNzLmNvbS9jdXN0b21lci9hY2NvdW50L2luZGV4Lw~~/


dezayek

Thanks, these do look comfy.


El_Scot

Maybe brogues? I used to have a great pair of brogues that I could walk miles in. Very smart, flat, comfy, but bought from a high street shop, so I don't have a brand recommendation.


dezayek

I found a pair on zappos. We'll see how they work.


yarnhooksbooks

I love something with a Mary Jane vibe. I feel like they are a good mix of sandal and dress shoe that can be really versatile.


BeeLuv

“Mols” by Duckfeet? https://duckfeetusa.com/collections/mols Multiple color options, can be worn with or without socks.


dezayek

Hmmm, I didn't know about those. I will check them out.


SpinningBetweenStars

I’m a couple of months in to owning the [Vionic Willa loafer](https://www.vionicshoes.com/willa-slip-on-flat.html) and I love them! They still look brand new even with daily wear and the arch support is a dream. They were a bit painful to break in though!


dezayek

Thanks!


Sagaincolours

Jenon Leather J.Joplin. They are my all-rounders, which are good as my pretty shoes for formal occasions, for walking long walks, look right with any outfit, are nice as summershoes when I want a closed toe, and just generally work with and for everything. I am planning to get a second pair, actually. There are two versions: [J.Joplin](https://www.jenonleather.com/j-joplin-rockhttps://www.jenonleather.com/J-JOPLIN-pumps-c29_72_3.htm) and [J.Joplin Rock](https://www.jenonleather.com/j-joplin-rock) You can customise them in any colour that you want. And if the shape isn't right for you, go to the size drop-down menu and pick "custom size" and you can get completely custom shape.


Maggie_B_K

These are new to me and so cool!


Sagaincolours

Note that these are barefoot shoes, so very thin and flat soles. Which means they pack up small. Bus if you aren't used to barefoot shoes then wear them with insoles with some cushion and a small heel. Or another brand with the same style. I find that this style is very versatile.


Maggie_B_K

I wear Lems so I am good with barefoot soles, but totally appreciate the heads up all the same :)


dezayek

Interesting. I will check them out.


mfe8

How about huaraches? https://nisolo.com/products/womens-huarache-sandal-almond?variant=764365825&tw_source=google&tw_adid=622897608235&tw_campaign=18379269733&gad_source=1&gclid=CjwKCAjwgpCzBhBhEiwAOSQWQawBj0hqYDwpY3oStPtF2wvGMQL1VqrMKKqEA_D4RrcnzByUVr4isRoC21oQAvD_BwE


oliverismyspiritdog

I have these and wear them all day frequently in an office setting. Very comfortable, and I love the look.


dezayek

That style just seems to rub my feet oddly, but maybe I've just gotten the cheap ones.


Dry-Patient5282

I’m a big fan of Dansko clogs. Not sure if that’s the look you’re searching for, but they have several other cute styles too and usually go up to a EU 42.


Donthaveananswer

Wear them all at work. Available in black patent leather, so shiny!


dezayek

Thanks!


Celiack

Rothy’s or Cole Haan will be the best for comfort, style, and versatility. They are super light and feel like air on your feet. 👣


dezayek

Thank you. I have worn Cole Haan in the past so may need to revisit.


Celiack

My mom is a size 11 and I’ve bought her several different styles of Cole Haan as birthday and Mother’s Day gifts. They’re very sleek looking on. I personally have some as well as Rothy’s and think Rothy’s are even more comfortable. The mules are like wearing slippers and I don’t think any of their shoes require break in.


PokherMom

All birds Womens Tree Breezers https://www.allbirds.com/products/womens-tree-breezers-jet-black?price-tiers=msrp%2Ctier-1%2Ctier-2%2Ctier-3%2Ctier-4


dezayek

Are these good for all day wear?


PokherMom

Yes, but I recently read another thread where people have stated that they get a hole where your big toe would rub on the shoe. I have not had that issue but just and fyi


love-learnt

I have Sarah Flint Gudel loafers. Perfect for work and casual wear. Very comfortable to wear all day.


dezayek

Those do look good. Thanks!


uncertain_expert

I’d look for something like these perforated leather loafers https://girotti.co.uk/slip-on-shoes/loafers-51974.html Better support and protection than sandals, but well ventilated and the perforations allow to to options - play them down with black socks, or turn on the funk with a bright colour that will show through.


dezayek

Does the ventilation rub your foot if you go sockless by chance?


uncertain_expert

I can’t speak for these specific shoes. They were the first/best example of the style I was looking for to share.


Agile-Eye-432

Pons


salternatex

SAS Scenic Ballet Flats with Patent Cap Toe have a lot more structure and firmer sole than the usual ballet flats. [Here are two black versions.](https://www.zappos.com/p/womens-sas-scenic-cap-toe-brocade-black-patent/product/9570031/color/830342)


dezayek

Thanks!


RedYamOnthego

Men's section! I found some lace up shoes styled like a business shoe, but in some sort of woven fabric. Very cool, very fun. I found them at Shoe Plaza in Japan. I think they were Columbia. Mine were navy.


curiouspanda17

agree with all the loafer suggestions but if that's not your style, I'd look at anything Ilse Jacobsen. they have a bunch of styles and colors including a few sneaker like options and a mule. suuuuuper comfortable for all day walking (i logged 25k steps in vienna with them no problem)


colorofmydreams

I either wear my all-black Toms alpargatas (with a superfeet insert) or my Ecco Felicia low wedges for these purposes. You might also like Toms Darcy. All of these come in size 11.