I clicked on the link for vionic shoes, because I have heard lots of good things…saw a bunch of nice shoes, didn’t order or create an account but now on college confidential I have vionics adds on both the left and bottom banners 
I had a pair of abeo sandals that I loved for several years until they finally wore out, but I have never felt like any of thir shoes worked for me except for that one pair of sandals! I do have one pair of Ryka shoes for the gym and I like them. Reasonably roomy toe box without being too wide overall.
I have a pair of Keen hiking shoes that I find are more comfortable than regular sneakers. They have the benefit of being waterproof and are very warm during winter. I stumbled into them after a broken foot - with the harder rubber sole, my dr. recommended them as stronger protection than soft running sneakers. They are my go to shoe when heading to Europe and spending lots of time on my feet. While they are heavier than sneakers, the thicker sole keeps my feet warm and it is more stable when walking on cobblestones. The toe box is also wider so I’m not irritating the baby bunion that I fight to keep small.
Agree that it is such a personal preference, but thought I share my experiences.
Everybody in the pool wears Ryka water shoes, me included. Don’t know about Ryka land shoes.
I have Abeo Ugg-style boots that are fine, but I agree with the general sentiments that you should walk away from a pushy salesperson and that different people will find different brands comfortable (I can’t wear Nike shoes, for instance, even though a lot of people love them. It’s just where the arch hits.)
I personally like Asics for athletic shoes and Sketchers for not-quite athletic shoes (I bought some men’s Sketchers boots… they are so comfortable and lightweight!). Also, Clarks sandals… hmm… maybe I should get some new ones online now… I had issues with them not having my style last year when I wanted a new pair.
Update from OP…Shopped for shoes today. Tried on Keens and Merrells, really wanted to like them but not a good fit.
Found a pair of clearance Dansko mary jane style at Nordstroms and bought them. I love the shape of the toe box, not as much arch support, snd my heel is coming up a tiny bit. Putting in an insert might help.
Asking for Dansko shoe lovers to tell me your favorite Dansko shoe. I CANT wear clogs. I think Dansko might be my brand.
Thanks to all who shared on this thread.
Have you tried Ecco? I’m wearing these right now: https://www.6pm.com/p/ecco-fara-slip-on-black-black-1/product/8601389/color/234186 and they’re super comfortable.