Best women's casual sneakers

Top pick: Kizik Women's Irvine. The one to start with if you want a sneaker you can pull on and forget about — a step-in design that's rated 4.8 from a huge number of reviews, so it's the safest bet for all-day, everyday wear.

Who the others suit:

• adidas Women's Japan — the classic low-profile retro look; best if you want something that goes with everything and is easy on the wallet.
• Superga 2750 Cotu — a clean canvas court shoe for warm-weather, jeans-and-tee days.
• New Balance 327 — a bit more cushioning and a sportier shape for longer walks.
• Converse Chuck Taylor — the casual staple, though flatter underfoot.
• Onitsuka Tiger California 78 — slimmer and more retro-styled for a dressed-up casual look.
• Nike Air Max 270 — the most cushioned of the bunch, if comfort matters more than a low profile.
• Oliver Cabell Low 1 — leather, for when you want a sneaker that reads a little smarter.

Skip the platform and slip-on canvas styles if you're on your feet for hours — they're fun but less supportive.