The Most Comfortable Loafers to Carry You Through the Day

The perfect horsebit loafer is one that is timeless and versatile yet still has that little bit of sparkle to make it stand out. The Gucci horsebit loafer, a true cult favorite, is a pair I keep coming back to for this very reason. It’s a shoe that has withstood the test of time for decades and continues to be one of my go-tos. For anyone who appreciates the art of a well-crafted loafer, these are an absolute must-have.

Sizes: 5–12 U.S.

Colors: 14, including burgundy, black, and brown

Heel height: 0.5 inches

What reviewers say: “I have narrow feet, so a lot of loafers I’ve tried are too wide on me, so I decided to splurge on this one. I like how the lip/front part is longer and helps elongate my feet a little bit. At first it was a bit snug to slip my foot in, so I use a shoe horn, but this pair is one of the most comfy shoes I own. Didn’t even need to break them in, I can walk in these for hours on end!”

G.H. Bass is known for its comfortable and durable penny loafers, which are as versatile for everyday wear as they are for styling your wardrobe. And did I mention these shoes are built to last? I bought my first pair of Weejuns back in high school, and they’re still going strong to this day. Perfect for a day around town paired with your favorite jeans or adding an edge to a slipdress for a night out, these loafers will carry you through any occasion.

Sizes: 5–11 U.S.

Colors: Black, burgundy, cognac

Heel height: 0.87 inches

What reviewers say: “These are the ultimate classic black loafers and I feel like Audrey Hepburn wearing them. They look elegant and well made and I think they will last for years. The length runs long; the width, a bit narrow. I ordered a half size down and they fit me perfectly. I have narrow feet and skinny ankles and these look great with skirts and cropped pants (not like clunky boats) and don’t slip off.”

“Nomasei’s design is so distinct, a supermodel stopped me while I was interviewing her to ask where they were from. (She then made a note of it on her phone.) The square-toe shape creates extra wiggle room in the toe box; the leather is also a breeze to break in with thick socks. (Not that it takes much work!) For me, the detail that makes these comfortable loafers a win is the brass embellishment on the upper band. Its raised-hand logo is kind of like a benediction, blessing anyone who wears these loafers with a complete look.” —Halie LeSavage, fashion commerce editor

Sizes: FR 35–42

Colors: Cognac, black, burgundy, brown, navy, silver

Heel height: 1.18 inches

What reviewers say: “I wonder how I ever lived without NONO all this time! What a joy to put on these wonders, to run with them to get the metro without suffering, to walk all day like in sneakers. By far the best shoes.”

Resembling a classic men’s penny loafer, Jamie Haller’s color-block loafer is crafted using sacchetto construction, giving it a glovelike and buttery feel. Molding to your foot with wear, this pair touts slipper-like comfort while maintaining a streamlined appearance.

Sizes: 36–41 EU

Colors: Nine, including black/bone, oxblood, and brown

“There’s something extremely sexy about slipping into a tough yet dainty heel before heading out for the night. Hand-stitched from goat skin, Tom Ford’s croc-embossed Whitney loafer seamlessly blends together a masculine and feminine feel. The squared-off toe box and gold hardware along the vamp command attention, while the narrow profile and stacked heel are refined. Pair with a slim pantsuit or your most daring minidress.” —Michella Oré, commerce editor

Sizes: 5–12 U.S.

Colors: Black, espresso

Heel height: 1 inch

For a loafer with a bit more flair, consider the Tod’s Kate loafer. Crafted from Italian leather, these loafers cradle your foot in the brand’s signature breathable, high-quality leather, adding charm to your outfit—no accessories needed.

Sizes: 4–12 U.S.

Colors: Seven, including, brown, blue, and beige

What reviewers say: “I love this shoe! The ornament is classy and the style is classic. I have been buying Tod’s drivers for many years and then discovered their other wonderful shoes. It runs slightly long but is ultra comfy.”

Emme Parsons is one of my favorite designers for shoes I can wear on almost any occasion, while still feeling more elevated than I do in a regular old “classic.” I have these loafers on my fall wish list after wearing the brand’s Susan sandals all summer.

“If ‘going-out loafer’ isn’t a shoe category yet, I’m making it one with this pair. The croc-embossed leather feels dressy enough to wear out to a candlelit dinner with a silk LBD and little ankle socks, yet it can also spruce up my T-shirt and trouser outfits for work.” —HL

Sizes: 35–42 EU

Colors: Espresso croc, black croc

Heel height: 1 inch

“Margaux’s shoes have never let me down where comfort is concerned. From the label’s signature ballet flats to these ideal-for-fall suede loafers, every pair has a flexible, nonirritating outer and five millimeters of cushioning throughout the sole. Put simply, they’re the sort of loafers you can wear for hours on end as soon as they arrive.” —HL

Sizes: 3–14 U.S.

Colors: Caramel, black, navy, chocolate, leopard

What reviewers say: “I was debating between these and another brand that offered a similar color/style. I’m glad I chose these! They’re so comfortable and they fit my life and style perfectly.”

Saint Laurent’s take on the penny loafer hits all the classic notes the best styles include. It differs in two key areas: a special decal along the back heel and, according to shoppers’ praise in several reviews, its comfort level.

Sizes: 5–11 U.S.

Colors: Shiny black leather, matte black leather

What reviewers say: “Perfect. I recommend to anyone looking for a timeless classic that is beautifully made and comfortable. I wear a size 9 and it was nice and snug. Which is how I love to get penny loafers because they stretch as you break them in!”

Inspired by a traditional moccasin, Sebago’s hand-sewn tassel loafer is perfect for anyone who loves adding a bit of whimsy to a classic loafer. The distinctive tassels give it just the right amount of personality without losing that timeless, refined look.

Sizes: 5–11 U.S.

Colors: Black, garnet, navy blue, brown-burgundy, black-white

Heel height: 0.5 inches

What reviewers say: “I bought these loafers in black and white. They needed a little stretching but worked out fine. Very fun and stylish. Even with a high arch (hence the stretching), I would recommend them.”

The Mary Jane shoe isn’t only reserved for a ballet flat or a heel; it can also be reimagined as a loafer. As a forever lover of the iconic buckled style, I’m obsessed with Sam Edelman’s take. Oftentimes, Mary Janes can steer too juvenile, but the subtlety of the instep strap on these adds just enough visual interest to give a retro vibe without sacrificing the shoe’s overall appeal.

Sizes: 5–11 inches

Colors: Black, modern ivory, warm chestnut

Heel height: 0.75 inches

What reviewers say: “You will not find a more comfortable loafer! I was on the search for a black leather loafer with a thick sole. I loved the unique style of these. I was sold when I tried them on! Beyond comfortable—so much cushion. I knew the search was over!”

Womenswear’s biggest current color trend is best embraced in the form of an accessory: either a red designer bag to pop against a neutral coat, or a pair of bright loafers like these from Tory Burch. They have a low, walkable heel, a flexible upper, and a tiny logo embellishment that shines against the cherry-red leather. —HL

Sizes: 6–11

What reviewers are saying: “They are soft, comfortable and the quality met my expectations. The color is beautiful the leather is soft but the sole is sturdy, yet the inner cushion is comfortable…well worth the cost.”

The preppy workhorse can be a rock star, too. Sebago’s studded Dan loafer is a traditional penny loafer with a whole lot of edge, perfect for the person who prefers to wear theirs with a worn-in leather jacket and cut-offs rather than chinos and a pressed button-down. With a flexible, water-resistant sole, these loafers will carry you from the office to the mosh pit—and back. —MO

Sizes: 5–11

Colors: Black

Ultimately, the most comfortable loafers are shoes you don’t have to overthink. This pair by Franco Sarto is a prime example. Its inky midnight-blue leather is an alluring twist on the usual neutrals, and the low heel adds just enough lift. Slip them on and go. —HL

Sizes: 5–13

What reviewers are saying: “Most comfortable dress shoe I have ever worn! Love the classic style. Fit perfectly.”