On the short side? No worries, there. We’ve got a solution for you, and it’s been right below your toes all this time.
Believe me when I tell you that a new pair of platform sneakers is an essential addition to the closet. A couple of extra inches never hurts, especially for us in the 5’5 and under crew. Plus, in my experience, flatter platform sneakers can actually be more comfortable than their thinner-soled sisters. A little more cushion is a game-changer for anyone with sensitive arches.
In order to guide you on your shoe-shopping journey, I’ve tested some trendy platform kicks from top sneaker brands like Nike, Vans, Golden Goose, New Balance, and more. And I’ve found something for everyone — whether you like a more low-key look for everyday wear or you prefer to hit the streets with a brand-new iconic style. It’s time to step into spring a couple of inches taller.
And, while shoes are top of mind, be sure to check out the Shopping Team’s review of the best sneakers for women, top walking shoes according to experts, and our roundup of simple, white sneakers you can wear with just about any outfit.
- Best Overall: Nike Air Force 1 Shadow
- Most Comfortable: Sam Edelman Layla Sneaker
- Best Designer: Golden Goose Women’s Marathon Sneaker
- Best Chunky: New Balance 574+
- Best Vintage: Vans Old Skool Stackform Shoes
- Best High-top: Superga 2708 High-Top Sneakers
- Best Low-top: PONY M-100 LOW
- Best Leather: NeroGiardini Bow Skate Sneaker pair
- Best Canvas: SeaVees Monterey Sneaker Platform
- Best Low Platform: Veronica Beard Valentina sneaker
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Best Overall: Nike Air Force 1 Shadow
Nike Pros:
- Great for everyday wear, comfortable for a long period of time
- Wide range of colors and styles
Cons:
- More of a shoe for casual wear, versus work or special occasion
Platform height: 2 inches
We all know and love the original Air Forces, so why not double them? The Air Force 1 Shadow takes Nike’s iconic shoes up a notch with two of everything — two mudguards, two backtabs and two signature swoosh logos. Oh, and we can’t forget to mention two inches.
So, why do I think these Nike’s deserve the top spot on the list? The new Air Force’s layered look is so sleek and unique, that it’s unlikely anyone will even notice that you’re sneaking in a couple extra inches. They’re not clunky or chunky, and the casual-cool style makes them easy to pair with just about any outfit (even a pair of sweats or leggings for loungewear lovers). They’re the ideal low-key platform for everyday wear.
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Most Comfortable: Sam Edelman Layla Sneaker
Sam Edelman Pros:
- A good amount of support for soles
- Customers rate fits true to size
- Wide range of colors and styles
Cons:
- Somewhat less stable than flat platforms
Platform height: 1.5 inches
Run, don’t walk to get your hands on a pair of these shoes. I’ve been a longtime fan of Sam Edelman, but I was completely unaware that the glitzy shoe brand had tapped into the platform sneaker market with such expertise. These well-designed sneakers combine all of the best elements of form and function.
Walking to work? No problem. The grippy, textured outsoles are ideal for trudging through all weather conditions, and the mixed leather fabrication is an ideal option for both streetwear and workwear. As someone with wider feet, it’s hard for me to find a shoe that isn’t pinching in the right spots. For me, these ones fit with a bit of room to spare. They’re flexible, durable, and easy to dress up or down.
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Best Designer: Golden Goose Women’s Marathon Sneaker
Golden Goose Pros:
- Lots of cushioning for foot support
- Long-lasting and look even better with age
- Handmade in Italy
Cons:
- Less platform height than some other options
- More expensive
Platform height: 1 inch
There are very few designer brands that I would be willing to splurge on. Golden Goose is one of them. The brand continues to drop sneakers that only get better with age, and part of that is due to the fact that they’re built to look like they’ve already been worn. That means there is no need to fret about scapes or scratches, it only adds more character to them.
When it comes to style, look no further. The new Marathon Sneakers are track and field-inspired with a 70’s flair. I love every detail — like the silver ripstop, nylon upper, and a metallic black nappa leather star. The 3D stabilizer accentuates cushioning, making these an ideal walking shoe. I’ve worn these shoes around the city for hours on end, and truly feel like I could run a marathon in them.
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Best Chunky: New Balance 574+
New Balance Pros:
- Retro-style
- Very lightweight
- Quiet
Cons:
- Run a bit small
Platform height: 1.5 inch
New Balance’s revival is not over. These retro sneakers are having a huge comeback, and we love how versatile they are. The 574+ offers a classic twist on the original 574 design. By adding a stacked, two-piece EVA midsole, you get a bit more height and cushioning.
The first thing I noticed about these sneakers is how lightweight they are. The foam material conforms to your foot easily, and as opposed to some of the leather sneakers I have tried, these are whisper-quiet. No screeching or scratching. They do run a bit on the small side, so I recommend sizing up if you’re between sizes.
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Best Vintage: Vans Old Skool Stackform Shoe
Vans Pros:
- Available in a variety of colors and styles
- Sturdy leather
- Supportive padded collards
- Fair-pricing
Cons:
- Less traction than some other shoes
Platform height: 1.3 inch
I don’t need to sell you on style here. Vans are never going away. The ‘cool-as-cool’ aesthetic is here to stay, and so are the brand’s iconic Stackform platform sneakers. The Old Skools are constructed with an exaggerated sidewall for double height to elevate the classic look.
These skate sneakers make a statement, with any outfit. In fact, they’re so easy to pair with outfits, that you’re going to want them in every single color. I also love how durable these shoes are — the suede and canvas uppers add some support to the shoe so you feel balanced while on the move. There is also a good amount of padding, which I prefer with my sneakers. While I’d definitely qualify these shoes as durable, they aren’t my favorite pair for walking around in the rain. The outer soles don’t offer much grip and the canvas isn’t waterproof, which makes them more suited for summer days.
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Best High-Top: Superga 2708 High-Top Sneakers
Anthropologie Pros:
- Clean, no-frills look
- Laces are easy to adjust and remove
Cons:
- Lack of color options
- Not waterproof
Platform height: 1.5 inch
These super-tall Superga’s are another must-have shoe for the shorter gals. The 2708 High-tops offer maximum breathability with a vulcanized natural rubber sole and a thin layer of canvas for optimal stretch and comfort. The clean white design makes it a rather simple shoe, that pairs just as well with a pair of jeans or a skirt to show off the high-top design.
As far as high tops go, these are easily my favorite pair. I’ve noticed that high tops can irritate my ankles depending on where they cut off, and some don’t offer as much flexibility as regular sneakers. These, on the other hand, are not too stiff, but they still have enough structure so you feel balanced even on uneven terrains. I only wish they came in a few more colors.
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Best Low-Top: Pony M-100 LOW
PONY Pros:
- Molded air vents
- Mesh lining
- Rubber outsole for traction
Cons:
- Less ideal for work, more of a casual style
Platform height: 1.5 inch
Whether you prefer sitting court-side or you want to join in on the game, these laidback low-top sneakers from PONY will ensure you look super-fly while doing it. The white body is available with multiple accent colors, so you can rep your favorite team.
In general, low-tops are great for a more relaxed style, but these sneakers from PONY are designed particularly for breathability. When the summer heat strikes, you won’t need to worry about soggy feet. The perforated leather underlays, mesh lining, and molded air vents are meant to keep air circulation going, so your socks won’t be soggy by the time you get home. You can’t beat comfy and cool.
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Best Leather: NeroGiardini Bow Skate Sneaker pair
Neiman Marcus Pros:
- Unique bowtie detail at bask
- Smooth leather
Cons:
- Best for work or special occasions, less of a casual look
- More expensive
Platform height: 1.5 inch
Meet the platform sneakers that will become your favorite shoe of the summer. For a more contemporary, feminine style, I suggest the Italian shoe brand NeroGiardini. The Bow Skate sneaker has been designed with smooth white leather, a round toe, and a darling leather bow at the backstay for the perfect touch to any outfit.
There are just so many ways to dress these up. I love styling these sneakers with a mini dress or skirt to accentuate the bow detail. But, on chillier days, they also look dapper with a trench coat. The subtle leather has a way of molding to your foot, so I recommend dedicating a few wears to breaking the shoes in. This pair may be more expensive than some competitors, but you can tell they’re made with high-quality materials by just looking at them.
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Best Canvas: SeaVees Monterey Sneaker Platform
Seavees Pros:
- Cushy memory foam footbed
- Power grip outsole
- Made with recycled materials
Cons:
- Run a bit on the small side
Platform height: 1.5 inch
For a more sustainable take on platform sneakers, I suggest browsing SeaVees. The brand uses eco-conscious quality materials, including a cotton canvas upper, recycled cotton canvas lining, and natural rubber outsole. The resulting look is a subtle, understated shoe perfect for everyday wear — but they also come in a variety of colorways including a metallic plink and checkered varieties for more festive occasions.
Looking for something with a bit more leverage? Fortunately, the Monterey sneakers feature a “power grip” outsole made from natural rubber. You’d be impressed with how much traction this provides. I’ve tested these out on a variety of surfaces — from pavement to gravel — and have found that there’s no slipping or sliding. The cushy memory foam also makes a world of difference if you’re prone to sore feet. These canvas sneakers are a dream to walk in.
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Best Everyday: Vagabond Zoe Platform Sneaker
Vagabond Pros:
- Higher platform
- Padded collars
- Clean, sleek look
- Loop pulls on heel
Cons:
- Fewer color options than some brands
- Runs small
Platform height: 1.6 inches
The Zoe platform is a minimalist shoe that cleans up any look. Featuring a front lace-up closure and padded collars, you can take them to dinner or work, and you’re sure to be drowned in compliments. The cow leather upper, and goat leather inner sole work together to make a sturdy shoe that adapts to your perfect fit over time.
If you’re hunting for something that offers a refined, smooth feeling and glazed look, then go with the Zoe platforms. These shoes are as simple-sleek as they come. I suggest ordering up a size for ultimate comfort, as they do run a bit on the small side. But, don’t worry about wiggling into them. The loop pulls on the back of the heel help you slip these shoes right on, so you don’t interfere with the structure.
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Best Low Platform: Veronica Beard Valentina sneaker
Veronica Beard Pros:
- Higher platform
- padded collars
- Clean, sleek look
Cons:
- More expensive
- Runs large
Platform height: 1 inch
If you’re going for a discreet, low-key platform look, I suggest the Veronica Beard Valentina sneaker. This shoe gives you a small one-inch lift, but it hardly looks like a platform shoe at all. Described as “equal parts sporty and chic,” these sneakers are ready for just about any occasion.
I love the two-toned design and mixed materials used in these sneakers (especially the cream and silver shades). The combination of leather and suede details on this shoe certainly dresses it up a bit, but it still has all the elements you need for a walking shoe — rubber outsole and a padded collar included. Plus, you have the signature interlocking-V design, a subtle nod to the trendy Veronica Beard logo.
How we tested
As someone on the shorter side, I’ve always sworn by platforms as my method of sneaking in an extra couple inches. Platform sneakers are my go-to choice for work and play, and over the years I’ve traversed a few top brands, found some that I absolutely love, and others that I don’t care for. For this review, I’ve evaluated platforms over three main criteria: comfort, aesthetics, and durability.
Comfort: Comfort is key with sneakers, but especially with platforms, it’s important to find a well-designed shoe that offers an ample amount of grip for balance on uneven terrain. I’ve made note of the level of padding, cushioning, and the texture of the soles. And, I’ve also included sneakers that are made with a variety of materials — leather, foam, canvas, suede, and more — to help shoppers decide what type of material works best for them.
Aesthetics: Whether you prefer a low-top or high-top, something sleek, or something low-key, we’ve got something for you. Style is completely unique to the beholder, but I’ve tried to review sneakers that are offered in a variety of colors, shades, and builds. While some of these sneakers are on the more casual side, others are suitable for work, and some are statement-makers for the streets.
Durability: I’ve tested a variety of sneakers built for this purpose over the years, and made note of some of the ones that earn five stars for durability (AKA they’ve been in my closet since 2016). When it comes to finding a sneaker that lasts, I look for ones that are constructed with a thicker material, don’t scratch easily, and require little maintenance (some dusting off, should do the trick).
Hunting for a headline-worthy haul? Keep shopping with Post Wanted.