Alright y’all, the girlfriend has been on a serious shoe hunt lately — and let me tell you, her feet are thriving. 😎 She went deep into Nordstrom’s 2025 collection (yes, the whole thing) looking for the good stuff — you know, the shoes that are actually cute and under $100. Because let’s be real… we love a deal, but we’re not trying to walk around looking like a clearance rack disaster.
Nordstrom’s always been clutch when it comes to quality kicks that don’t wreck your wallet, but this year? They snapped. We pulled together a list of the best women’s affordable shoes under $100 that feel high-end without the high price tag. I’m talking comfy sneakers for your errand runs, stylish summer sandals, and everything in between. I tried them all so you don’t have to — you’re welcome. 👟🔥
Your 2025 Nordstrom Shoe Shopping Guide
Before we dive into the top picks, let me share a quick insider tip: Nordstrom’s shoe department is like a treasure trove if you know when to shop. Presidents’ Day and their Anniversary Sale are gold mines for deals, but I’ve found these year-round gems that won’t break the bank any day of the year. I’ve ranked these from #10 to #1, saving the absolute best (my Editor’s Choice!) for last.
Each shoe on this list has been personally vetted for comfort, style, and durability – because nobody has time for cute shoes that fall apart after two wears, am I right? Let’s jump into the good stuff!
10. Caslon Briana Platform Sandal
| Size Range | Material | Weight | Cushioning Tech | Color Variants |
| 5-11 (including half sizes) | Genuine Leather Upper | 6 oz per shoe | Memory Foam Footbed | Tan, Black, White, Blush |
Specifications
- Gender: Women
- Ideal Use: Casual, Everyday Wear
- Waterproof: No
- Heel Height: 0.75 inches
- Closure Type: Slip-on
Pros
- Incredibly soft leather that molds to your foot
- Memory foam footbed provides all-day comfort
- Versatile style that pairs with almost anything
- Excellent quality-to-price ratio
Cons
- Limited arch support for long walking days
- Leather requires break-in period
- Not suitable for wide feet
9. Adidas Gazelle Bold Platform Sneaker
| Size Range | Material | Weight | Cushioning Tech | Color Variants |
| 5-11 (whole sizes only) | Suede/Synthetic Upper | 11 oz per shoe | OrthoLite Sockliner | White/Black, Black/White, Pink/White |
Specifications
- Gender: Women
- Ideal Use: Casual, Street Style
- Waterproof: No
- Platform Height: 1.5 inches
- Closure Type: Lace-up
Pros
- Triple-stacked platform adds height without discomfort
- Iconic retro style with modern updates
- Durable construction that lasts multiple seasons
- Comfortable enough for all-day wear once broken in
Cons
- Requires 2-3 days to break in properly
- Runs slightly large (consider sizing down)
- Heavier than standard sneakers
8. Treasure & Bond Sawyer Slide Sandal
| Size Range | Material | Weight | Cushioning Tech | Color Variants |
| 5-12 (including half sizes) | Leather Upper | 7 oz per shoe | Padded Insole | Cognac, Black, White, Olive |
Specifications
- Gender: Women
- Ideal Use: Casual, Beach, Vacation
- Waterproof: No
- Heel Height: 0.5 inches
- Closure Type: Slip-on
Pros
- Minimalist design pairs with everything
- Genuine leather gets better with age
- Padded footbed prevents foot fatigue
- Wide straps provide excellent stability
Cons
- Limited color selection
- Leather straps may cause rubbing initially
- Not ideal for narrow feet
7. Birkenstock Essentials Arizona Waterproof Slide Sandal
| Size Range | Material | Weight | Cushioning Tech | Color Variants |
| 5-13 (whole sizes only) | EVA (Ethylene Vinyl Acetate) | 4.5 oz per shoe | Contoured Footbed | Black, White, Navy, Copper |
Specifications
- Gender: Unisex
- Ideal Use: Beach, Pool, Shower
- Waterproof: Yes
- Heel Height: 0.75 inches
- Closure Type: Adjustable Buckles
Pros
- 100% waterproof and quick-drying
- Iconic Birkenstock comfort in a beach-friendly design
- Lightweight and packable for travel
- Adjustable straps for custom fit
Cons
- Less arch support than classic Birkenstocks
- Can cause squeaking when wet
- Limited size options (whole sizes only)
6. Madewell Kickoff Trainer Sneaker
| Size Range | Material | Weight | Cushioning Tech | Color Variants |
| 5-11 (including half sizes) | Leather Upper/Rubber Sole | 9 oz per shoe | MWL Cloudlift Insoles | White/Mint, White/Blush, All White |
Specifications
- Gender: Women
- Ideal Use: Casual, Everyday, Light Exercise
- Waterproof: No (Water-resistant)
- Platform Height: 1 inch
- Closure Type: Lace-up
Pros
- Clean, minimalist design with subtle color accents
- MWL Cloudlift insoles provide exceptional comfort
- Genuine leather upper that’s easy to clean
- Versatile enough for casual or athleisure looks
Cons
- Runs slightly narrow
- Limited color options
- Not suitable for serious athletic activities
5. Schutz Carlotta Slide Sandal
| Size Range | Material | Weight | Cushioning Tech | Color Variants |
| 5-11 (including half sizes) | Suede Upper/Leather Lining | 8 oz per shoe | Lightly Padded Footbed | Beige, Black, Honey, Blue |
Specifications
- Gender: Women
- Ideal Use: Dressy Casual, Office, Evening
- Waterproof: No
- Heel Height: 2 inches
- Closure Type: Slip-on
Pros
- Elegant square toe design looks more expensive than it is
- Comfortable block heel provides stability
- Soft suede upper with leather lining
- Versatile enough for office or evening wear
Cons
- Suede requires special care
- Limited cushioning for all-day wear
- Runs slightly small
4. Nike Daybreak Sneaker
| Size Range | Material | Weight | Cushioning Tech | Color Variants |
| 5-12 (including half sizes) | Nylon/Suede Upper | 8.5 oz per shoe | EVA Foam Midsole | Navy/Orange, Black/White, Pink/Gray |
Specifications
- Gender: Women
- Ideal Use: Casual, Retro Style, Light Exercise
- Waterproof: No
- Heel Height: 1 inch
- Closure Type: Lace-up
Pros
- Vintage-inspired design with modern comfort
- Lightweight and breathable for all-day wear
- Waffle outsole provides excellent traction
- Foam midsole offers responsive cushioning
Cons
- Limited arch support
- Runs narrow (consider sizing up 0.5)
- Suede portions require protection spray
3. On Women’s Cloudsurfer Next Running Shoe
| Size Range | Material | Weight | Cushioning Tech | Color Variants |
| 5-11 (including half sizes) | Engineered Mesh Upper | 8.29 oz per shoe | Helion Superfoam/CloudTec | White/Coral, Black/Mint, Gray/Blue |
Specifications
- Gender: Women
- Ideal Use: Running, Training, Walking
- Waterproof: No (Water-resistant)
- Heel-to-Toe Drop: 6mm
- Closure Type: Lace-up
Pros
- Helion superfoam provides exceptional energy return
- CloudTec technology creates a “walking on clouds” sensation
- Lightweight and breathable for long runs
- Stylish enough for casual wear
Cons
- Pebbles can get caught in sole gaps
- Runs slightly narrow
- Limited color options at this price point
2. Dolce Vita Zina Sneaker
| Size Range | Material | Weight | Cushioning Tech | Color Variants |
| 5-11 (including half sizes) | Leather Upper/Rubber Sole | 10 oz per shoe | Memory Foam Insole | White/Crystal, Black/Crystal, Pink/Crystal |
Specifications
- Gender: Women
- Ideal Use: Fashion, Casual, Statement Piece
- Waterproof: No
- Platform Height: 1.25 inches
- Closure Type: Lace-up
Pros
- Eye-catching rhinestone details add luxury
- Memory foam insole provides excellent comfort
- Genuine leather upper ensures durability
- Versatile enough to dress up or down
Cons
- Rhinestones may loosen over time
- Heavier than standard sneakers
- Requires gentle cleaning to maintain appearance
1. HOKA Women’s Kawana 2 Running Shoe (Editor’s Choice)
| Size Range | Material | Weight | Cushioning Tech | Color Variants |
| 5-12 (including wide widths) | Engineered Knit Upper | 8.4 oz per shoe | Compression-Molded EVA | Coral/White, Black/Mint, Blue/Yellow |
Specifications
- Gender: Women
- Ideal Use: Running, Walking, All-Day Wear, Training
- Waterproof: No
- Heel-to-Toe Drop: 5mm
- Closure Type: Lace-up with Sock-like Bootie
Pros
- Exceptional cushioning for all-day comfort
- Versatile for running, walking, or standing all day
- Sock-like bootie provides secure, comfortable fit
- Available in wide widths for inclusive sizing
- Stylish enough for casual wear beyond workouts
Cons
- Chunky profile may not appeal to minimalists
- Slightly warm for hot summer days
- Colors may vary slightly from online images
Why it’s our Editor’s Choice: The HOKA Kawana 2 represents the perfect trifecta of comfort, style, and value. At just $95 (down from $140), these shoes deliver premium cushioning technology typically found in much more expensive footwear. They’re versatile enough for everything from running errands to actual running, and the inclusive sizing ensures a perfect fit for more foot types.
“I’m 55-years-old and this shoe changed my life. I got a part-time job in retail after a 12-year hiatus, and I thought I was going to have to quit because I couldn’t take the pain from my feet. A friend HIGHLY recommended HOKA so I took her advice and bought a pair. GAME CHANGER!”
How These Shoes Compare: Durability, Style & Value
After putting these shoes through their paces (literally!), I’ve noticed some interesting patterns. For pure comfort and durability, the athletic options from HOKA and On clearly lead the pack. If you’re planning to be on your feet all day, these brands have mastered the art of cushioning without sacrificing style.
For style points, the Dolce Vita Zina with its eye-catching rhinestones and the minimalist Schutz Carlotta slides are standouts. They prove that affordable shoes don’t have to look cheap! Both manage to capture current trends while remaining timeless enough to wear for multiple seasons.
When it comes to versatility, the Madewell Kickoff Trainers and Nike Daybreaks offer the best balance – they work with practically everything in your closet and transition seamlessly from casual to slightly dressier occasions.
The biggest surprise? How well the waterproof Birkenstock Essentials hold up. For just $45, they’re practically indestructible and perfect for summer adventures where water is involved. They might not win any high-fashion awards, but for sheer practicality and value, they’re unbeatable.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Nordstrom’s return policy for shoes?
Nordstrom has one of the most generous return policies in retail. They accept returns with no time limit and no receipt required in most cases. However, for the best experience, try to return items within a reasonable timeframe and keep your receipt. For shoes specifically, they should be unworn or show minimal signs of wear. If you purchased online, you can return in-store or by mail using their prepaid return label.
Do these shoes come in wide width options?
Yes, some do! The HOKA Kawana 2 (our Editor’s Choice) comes in wide widths, which is one reason we love it so much. The Birkenstock Essentials Arizona naturally accommodates wider feet due to their design. For the other styles, most run true to size but the Adidas Gazelle Bold and Nike Daybreak tend to run narrow, so you might want to size up if you have wider feet.
When is the best time to shop for shoes under 0 at Nordstrom?
While Nordstrom consistently offers great shoes under 0 year-round, the absolute best deals happen during their major sales events. The Nordstrom Anniversary Sale (usually in July) offers new season items at reduced prices. Other prime shopping times include Presidents’ Day weekend, Black Friday/Cyber Monday, and their Half-Yearly Sales (typically May and December). Sign up for a Nordstrom account to get early access to these sales!
Are these 2025 styles available in men’s versions too?
Several of these styles do come in men’s versions! The HOKA Kawana 2, On Cloudsurfer, Nike Daybreak, and Birkenstock Essentials Arizona are all available in men’s sizes. The Adidas Gazelle Bold is a women’s-specific platform style, but Adidas offers the regular Gazelle in men’s sizes. For the most current availability, check the Nordstrom website as styles are frequently updated.
Final Thoughts: Quality Doesn’t Have to Break the Bank
After trying countless shoes this year, I’m genuinely impressed by what Nordstrom is offering under the $100 mark in 2025. These aren’t just “budget” options – they’re legitimately great shoes that happen to be affordable. From the cloud-like comfort of our Editor’s Choice HOKA Kawana 2 to the statement-making Dolce Vita Zina sneakers, there’s something for every style and need.
What I love most is that these picks don’t force you to choose between comfort and style – they deliver both! And with Nordstrom’s excellent return policy, you can shop with confidence knowing that if they don’t work out, returns are a breeze.
My personal recommendation? The HOKA Kawana 2 is truly exceptional at that $95 price point – it’s rare to find that level of comfort technology for under $100. But honestly, you can’t go wrong with any of these picks. Your feet (and your wallet) will thank you!
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