If you’re a regular Washington Metro commuter, you walk–a lot. But all that pounding of the pavement, stubbing the toe of your shoe on the escalator, and scraping up your heels in sidewalk cracks is going to take a toll on your shoes. If you’re sick of replacing your $230 Tory Burch dress flats every few months, we’ve got some other options for you.
Good walking shoes for a commuter need to be three things: flat, for ease of walking; enclosed in the heel–flip-flops are not your friends during a long walk; and easy to slip off and trade for heels. If you’re ready to stop pairing your pencil skirt with sneakers, here are some easy alternatives, which are all under $20–so you don’t even need to feel guilty when you wear them through on the streets of Washington.
Bring a little pizazz to your morning Metro with these silver slip ons, $19.98 at Shoe Carnival.
Basic and sturdy, these nude flats won’t look odd paired with your workwear, even if they are your travel shoes, $17.90 at Forever 21.
If you’re walking a mile or more, you may want a bit more support. These shoes are cushioned, but more discrete than a pair of Nikes, $17.99 at H&M.
These gold d’Orsay flats may look fancy, but you won’t feel bad tossing them in your tote when you’ve made it to your office, $15.99 at Amazon.
The stretchy fabric ensures comfort and support on these simple sandals, $14.94 at DSW.
Part sandal, part flat, all easy comfort for your commute, $15.58 at Go Jane.
These basic slid on sandals won’t look out of place with a summery dress on the way to your office, $14.98 at Shoe Carnival.
Sometimes all you need is a basic black patent leather flat that you spent next-to-nothing on, $16.99 at Target.
Almost nude, but with a bit of glitz to glam up your morning, $17.99 at Amazon.
Perfect for your walk to the Metro in the morning and for after hours drinks with friends, $7.99 at ModCloth.
Easy T-strap sandals to keep your feet secure as they pound the pavement, $12.53 at Forever 21.
These breeze d’Orsay flats are quick and easy to slip into on the go, $13.38 at Go Jane.
For the prepster in you, these bow-topped flats are a dream, $19.99 at Jolly Chic.
Sturdy and secure–everything you’ve ever wanted in a walking shoe, $14.99 at Amazon.
Sleek, silver, and so cheap you won’t care if they get scuffed, $12.95 at H&M.
Caroline Cunningham joined Washingtonian in 2014 after moving to the DC area from Cincinnati, where she interned and freelanced for Cincinnati Magazine and worked in content marketing. She currently resides in College Park.
