The 10 best loafers for women in 2024

Colors: 23 | Sizes: 4 to 14 | Material: Leather

Two of our staff members say these Sam Edelman loafers are the best they've ever tried. "I have the Loraine loafers in three colors — that's how much I love them! I bought them after a near-identical pair (that's roughly six times more expensive) gave me the worst blisters of my life," says Deputy Commerce Editor Izabella Zaydenberg. 

Commerce Editor Amanda Garrity raves that "I can wear them all day — and I live in New York City, which means I'm on my feet for most of the day. It helps that the leather is incredibly soft, so it molds to the foot."

Both said the loafers were comfortable straight out of the box with no break-in time, unlike many loafers that tend to be stiff. The padded leather insole adds comfort, and wide sizes are available. They're also built to last: "I've had my oldest pair for a few years now, too, and they've stood the test of time, with barely a scuff on them," says Zaydenberg. 

Garrity notes that they aren't the most supportive shoes around, but if you need extra arch support, she suggests trying the chunkier version of the loafer.

Colors: 7 | Sizes: 3 to 14 | Material: Leather

Made from an ultra-soft nappa leather upper, these loafers are handmade in Spain and have 5 millimeters of foam padding for extra comfort. There are seven colors, but fashion stylist Jordanna Sharp prefers ivory. "It's great for spring into summer and adds a little more interest to the look," she says. These sleek shoes not only come in half sizes but also medium, narrow and wide. 

"These are my first Margaux shoes and I immediately became a loyal customer," raves one reviewer. "I have a wide foot and a high arch, and finding shoes that fit like a glove and have style has been a real journey. These are expensive but absolutely beautiful and worth every penny. The packaging was luxe and included a shoe horn."

Colors: 6 | Sizes: 4 to 12 | Materials: Suede and leather

First introduced in 1979, Tod’s Gommino loafers have been a staple in many women’s wardrobes (including Princess Diana's) for decades. While they originally were more of a driving shoe, the updated “City” version boasts a rubber sole that makes them more durable for walking. "They come in various colors and materials, but my top choice is the suede version for its softness and flexibility," says textile designer John Smith. 

The made-in-Italy loafers have exposed stitching and the brand’s iconic rubber outsole with embossed pebbles to give you a good grip. While they are definitely expensive, they do come with a two-year warranty.

Colors: 1 | Sizes: 5 to 11 | Material: Leather

If you are looking for something a bit more trendy — and perhaps less spendy — these loafers from Cos are a great option, according to Jamie Lewin, fashion designer, stylist and creative director. "They offer a modern take on the classic with a chunky sole and have comfortable, cushioned insoles," she says.

Made in Portugal, these leather loafers boast classic penny cutouts, tonal top-stitching and padded leather insoles that make them easy to walk in. The chunky soles add 1.5 inches and give them a fashion-forward feel. The downside: They don’t come in half sizes, and black is the one and only color.

Colors: 2 | Sizes: 5 to 11 | Material: Leather

I've owned these Gucci horse-bit loafers for over five years and they still look good as new. They were comfortable right away, and I never got a single blister when wearing them —though I will note that I do wear no-show socks with them. Made from super-soft leather, they are not only incredibly durable but versatile and timeless. I typically wear them with jeans or trousers but have also styled them with skirts and dresses. I also have the loafer mules, and they're just as sturdy and comfortable if you prefer a backless look.

Colors: 13 | Sizes: 5 to 13 | Materials: Leather

All Vionics have been specially designed by podiatrists to provide the support and comfort you need for a full day on your feet. These loafers have the American Podiatric Medical Association Seal of Acceptance thanks to their lightweight, flexible outsoles and shock-absorbing cushioning. They also boast a deep heel cup for stability and ample arch support. The soft leather uppers are sourced from the Leather Working Group, which promotes responsible leather manufacturing.

Shoppers say these are even comfortable enough for people with foot conditions including plantar fasciitis and bunions. "This shoe has solved my issue of professional (business casual) looking shoes that I can comfortably wear with plantar fasciitis," raved one reviewer. 

"I have had plantar fasciitis and must wear a good supportive shoe, and these fit the bill! Plus these are very stylish," said another.

Colors: 6 | Sizes: 5 to 11 | Material: Leather

When you think of loafers, this pair from G.H.Bass may come to mind. Weejuns were first designed in 1936 and have become a preppy wardrobe staple ever since. I've had a pair in rotation for years and love the classic penny loafer design. They are a bit rigid at first and take a while to break in, but once that happens, they're incredibly comfortable. The design is timeless and the shoes are great quality for the price, making them a standout choice for an affordable leather option.

Colors: 6 | Sizes: 5 to 13 | Material: Recycled water bottles

If you’re looking for a more eco-friendly loafer, this pair from Rothy's should be on your radar. Over 13,600 shoppers have bestowed an impressive 4.6-star rating, and it's easy to see why. The cute kicks boast a flexible knit material that is made from recycled water bottles — and while that might not sound very comfortable, owners swear they are soft and mold to your feet. 

The seamless construction prevents blisters and the shoes are even machine-washable, so you can keep them squeaky clean. They also have a wide toe box that's ideal if you suffer from bunions. "Having bunions and hammer toes makes it hard to find comfortable shoes. These were great! Wore them all day," raved one five-star reviewer.

Colors: 2 | Sizes: 5 to 11 | Materials: Rubber and mesh

These Cole Haan loafers are light, airy, easy to put on and have the brand’s signature cloud-like Grandføam technology. They have a breathable knit upper that keeps your feet cool throughout the day, making them a great option for spring and summer. There's also a soft, cushioned footbed that keeps your feet comfortable and supported, and since they're lightweight, they're ideal for travel.

"This is my fourth pair of these. They are so comfortable and weightless I feel I'm not wearing shoes," said one five-star reviewer. "They are great to pack for travel because they don't take up room or add weight to your luggage. I also get compliments every time I wear them."

"I can walk and stand all day with no issues," another fan said.

Colors: 4 | Sizes: 5 to 11 | Material: Leather

If you love celebrity-approved styles, look no further than this pair of loafers from Reformation. Both Katie Holmes and Gigi Hadid are fans of the classic design. The comfortable kicks boast a platform lug sole that's made from a mix of natural recycled rubber and foam derived from sugar cane, while the upper is made from ethically sourced Brazilian leather. As is fitting with the brand's sustainable ethos, the shoes are 100% recyclable through Reformation's RefRecycling program. The chunky lug sole provides good traction and makes them comfortable to walk in, while the classic design makes them incredibly versatile — pair them with just about any kind of outfit imaginable.