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Whether you're prepping for a morning dog walk or need something comfortable and supportive for a long day at work, the right pair of shoes can ease your daily routine and reduce tiredness and foot pain.
We put in many thousands of steps during our in-depth testing of these walking shoes. From braving long airport security lines to taking strolls around the neighborhood, we became deeply acquainted with every one of these shoes. Along the way, we primarily focused on comfort, support, and traction, while still strongly considering their weight and durability.
Both our men's and women's walking shoe teams found the Altra Experience Flow 3 to be among the best, which has a comfortable toe box, a soft and springy midsole, and proved a versatile workhorse in our testing.
Our men's team loved the Under Armour Charged+ Assert 11 as a budget pick due to the support and breathability. Meanwhile, our women's team appreciated the Asics Gel-Contend 9 for its support during long errand runs and mid-length fitness walks.
Editor's Note: We revamped this review on April 29, 2026, to include our new picks from Altra, Asics, Hoka, and more.
Who It Is Best For: The Altra Experience Flow 3 is the shoe we recommend to any walker, whether it be a quick errand run or a long multi-mile fitness walk. This is due to the “just right” feel straight from the box: cushioned yet not too bulky. Their neutral platform and spacious toe box encourage a more natural stride, allowing your feet to move freely and supported without feeling restricted. If you need a shoe you can step into and simply forget about, this is it.
Why We Love It: This shoe is the complete package. We walked tens of thousands of steps in both the men's and women's versions of the Experience Flow 3, and our testers agree — it just does everything right. Lead Tester Arthur McMahon said, “My feet never ache or feel fatigued in these shoes. I can literally walk in them all day, every day, and not get tired of them.” This shoe is lightweight, well-ventilated, and durable. Plus, the EGO P35 midsole foam offers excellent shock absorption and fantastic energy return, adding a bit of forward momentum for your next step.
Should You Buy It: The simple answer is yes. The Altra Experience Flow 3 is a joy to walk in. Anyone who walks for any length of time can find happiness in this shoe. That said, the Altra design philosophy can feel off to those who have never worn a wide-toe-box shoe before. Our testers find this design to be exquisite. But if you're accustomed to more traditional shoes with a narrower forefoot and larger heel drops, the shift can feel strange at first. But we recommend you give them a try. For us, the Flow 3 is the bees' knees, and we're going to keep on walking in them.
Who It Is Best For: If you need a little extra arch support while you're out on your day-to-day, the Asics Gel Contend 9 is a solid choice. They have some of the best arch support among the shoes we tested, and they are perfect for warmer weather as they are lightweight and seriously breathable. Though not our top choice for long, multi-mile walks, they are still a great budget pick for day-to-day use.
Why We Love It: From the first moment we slipped these on, we were impressed. They had no break in, just comfort from our first walk onward. They are accommodating to various foot shapes due to the flexible mesh upper, but also available in a wide for those who need extra wiggle room. We were also thrilled with the price tag and gladly threw these on for hot days when we're busy on our feet.
Should You Buy It: The value for the Gel-Contend 9 is hard to beat. They'll last you a full walking season before needing to be replaced. Anyone after a casual around-town option and fitness walking shoe, these are a great choice under $100. Plus, you can often find these on sale for an even better deal.
Who It Is Best For: For daily walkers who aren't interested in a pricey pair of walking shoes, the Ryka Devotion Plus 3 could be the option for you. They have a women's specific fit, which we were skeptical of at first. However, this played out as a wider forefoot and a narrower heel cup. The result was minimal rubbing and hot spots as we walked. These are ideal for fitness walkers and daily outings.
Why We Love It: After a short break in, we were pleased with the unending comfort of these shoes. The contoured cushioning kept our feet securely in place, and our feet were happy with the added comfort. We could even get these shoes on hands-free when not cinched down. Our tester said, “These shoes ended up impressing me. I'll gladly throw these on for my daily walks.”
Should You Buy It: The Ryka Devotion Plus is a worthy choice, and it doesn't cost a whole lot. In fact, they are often on sale for less than half the price of our premium choices. They are available in a wide too, should you need that extra room.
Weight(women's size 6.5): 8.01 oz | Width Options: Regular, wide
Who it is best for: The Under Armour Charged+ Assert 11 is a great fit for value-focused walkers looking for a do-it-all shoe for quick outings, everyday tasks, or casual wear. Its highly breathable design helps keep feet cool, making it especially appealing in warmer conditions. That said, it's better suited for shorter distances and lighter use, as it doesn't offer the level of support or stability some may want for longer walks.
Why we love it: It delivers balanced performance at a price that's easy to justify. The newly updated Charged+ midsole softens impact without adding unnecessary bulk, resulting in a smooth, steady ride for everyday walking. Tester McMahon noted, “I'm surprised the Charged+ Assert 11 is so affordable, given how comfortable and dependable it is.” The shoe maintains a solid grip underfoot, even when surfaces turn slick. Breathability is a clear highlight, helping keep feet comfortable in warmer conditions. And regarding durability — it also holds up very well, making it a reliable option for regular use without feeling like a short-term solution. That's not something that can be said for many budget-friendly shoes.
Should you buy it? The Assert 11 is a great value shoe that offers a lot for its price point. If your budget is tight, this is certainly a top walking shoe to consider. However, while it's a well-rounded shoe at an affordable price, it doesn't quite stand toe-to-toe with its premium competition. This shoe is decently comfortable, but it lacks the support needed for long walks and isn't as stable as other top-tier contenders. If you prefer a low price tag and don't need optimal support, it'll serve you well, but consider alternatives if you need more from your shoe.
Who it is best for: The Hoka Clifton 10 is for anyone after optimal cushion and support for long days on your feet. If you've struggled with foot fatigue or ankle soreness, this model offers a reliable fix, especially for those used to high-mileage walking or standing on hard surfaces. This shoe is ideal for fitness walkers or professionals who rack up the step count.
Why we love it: Our team was shocked by how comfortable these shoes were. Our tester, Becca Glades, shares, “When I first put them on, I said 'wow' over and over. It felt like I was standing on pillows specially made for my feet.” The shoes don't lack in stability either. The base is wide enough to allow such a high stack. They did exceptionally well during all of our tests and kept our testing team's feet extra happy.
Should you buy it? The large stack height can be an adjustment if you are not used to max-cushioned shoes. In our experience, the adjustment lasts a few walks, but can be worth it for those doing extensive walks or working on their feet. We think these are a great option for wearing around town too. However, max cushion isn't for everyone, but if it is for you, these are an excellent choice.
Who It Is Best For: The Hoka Transport 2 can do a little bit of everything. It delivers a stable, supportive feel that remains comfortable over the long-haul without relying on overly soft cushioning that can lead to fatigue. With a design that leans toward a trail-ready hiking shoe aesthetic, the rugged Vibram outsole provides confident grip on surfaces like dirt paths and gravel, making it a dependable choice for more than just smooth pavement.
Why We Love It: It's a highly-capable and dependable walking shoe that inspires confidence no matter the terrain. It's no dedicated hiking boot, but it is a durable and reliable shoe that's ready to take on just about any type of surface you can throw - even tile and hardwood. It's not too plush and not too rough — it's just right as a daily walking or work shoe. We walked for miles in both the men's and women's variants of the Transport 2, and all of our testers were impressed by its balance between capability and comfort.
Should You Buy It: If you want a long-lasting, durable shoe that can tackle mild-to-moderate paths as well as city sidewalks and indoor tile, the Hoka Transport 2 is exactly what you need. Hoka's don't come cheap, though, and that's especially true of the Transport 2. You'll be paying a premium price, but you do get a lot for the cost.
Who it is best for: The On Cloud 6 is ideal for anyone after ultimate support for their daily walks, travels, or work. It's a particularly great fit for people who want a mix of athletic capability and urban sophistication in one pair of shoes. While it isn't hands-free, it's close, requiring just one hand to slip on and coming off easily.
Why we love it: We were pleasantly surprised by the level of support, without it feeling overbuilt. The sleek, minimalist look makes it a shoe we're happy to wear. On a weekend trip, they proved their worth with easy airport transitions and long days of walking. The stable sole provides enough forefoot flex to prevent fatigue, and the mesh upper kept us cool and comfortable. Tester Becca Glades notes, “My feet weren't aching after long days or lengthy walks, which speaks volumes to these shoes' supportive design.”
Should you buy it? If you're looking for one shoe to do it all, from museum touring to lengthy dog walks, the On Cloud 6 is a strong contender. Its pod-like sole delivers excellent cushioning, though it does tend to trap rocks on gravel paths. Fit-wise, some testers noted a short break-in period due to minor pressure from the speed laces, but On includes traditional laces for a more customized fit. With the slightly wider fit compared to the previous version, these accommodate more foot shapes than before. Still, for most users, its convenience, comfort, and versatility make it a standout for all-day wear.
Weight(men's size 10.5):9.5 oz | Width Options: Regular
Weight(women's size 6.5): 7.59 oz | Width Options: Regular
Who it is best for: The Hoka Bondi SR is an excellent choice for those who spend many hours on their feet walking and standing. They are durable, water-resistant, and slip-resistant, making them great for various workplace settings such as food service, retail, and healthcare job sites. “They're incredibly stable and comfortable,” said McMahon. While they can serve as a great day-to-day walking shoe, we think the extra features make them even more valuable as a work shoe.
Why we love it: This shoe is exceptionally comfortable and supportive, which are hallmarks of every great walking shoe. The Bondi SR is Hoka's most-cushioned road shoe, and it's noticeable. Its plush midsole is balanced by its extremely rigid and stable outsole. Combined, the sole feels like it cradles your foot, protecting it in a cocoon of comfort. Plus, the traction is insanely good, which also adds to the stability. It's all rubber, and the compound is soft, which helps make it oil and slip-resistant. Then you've got the classy leather uppers, which look and feel good, but are also durable and water-resistant. Basically, this shoe is loaded with features, and they all work well with each other.
Should you buy it? If you need a durable, reliable, and comfortable shoe you can stand in all day, the Hoka Bondi SR should be at the top of your shopping list. With slip and water resistance, it's a shoe you can depend on day after day, whether that be on the job or on a grocery run.
Accommodating foot shape with wide option available
Great for travel
REASONS TO AVOID
Aggressive heel-to-toe drop
Not great for dirt paths
Who it is best for: The Kizik Athens 2 is a truly hands-free design, meaning you can slip it on and go with no fuss. That in mind, these are great for those with limited mobility and flexibility as you don't need to bend over to get them on. While not the best choice for extensive walks, they are suitable for day-to-day use and shorter walks.
Why we love it: It is difficult to find a hands-free shoe that offers a secure, snug fit, and still has laces to adjust. But the Athens 2 does. We appreciated the consistent fit each and every time we slid into these shoes. One of our testers found the hands-free design invaluable as she neared the end of her pregnancy, allowing her to get the shoes on and off without even needing to sit down. They are breathable and have plenty of traction for indoor and outdoor surfaces too.
Should you buy it? The Kizik Athens 2 has an unbeatable value if you need hands-free entry, or just enjoy a quick on-and-go option. No other shoe offers this level of convenience, especially while staying stylish. If your feet run wide, we highly recommend choosing the wide option as the toe box runs snug.
Who it is best for: The Kizik Lima 2's signature feature is its unmatched convenience. This makes it a top choice for anyone who frequently has to head out the door to take care of tasks throughout the day. The shoe slides on and off without a hitch — it's what it was designed to do. You'll only ever have to lace them up once, and then you'll never have to bend down to adjust them again. Not only is this convenient, but it's also an incredible boon for anyone with mobility issues. The rigid heel cage and stretchy mesh uppers enable you to put them on and take them off with little effort, and totally hands-free.
Why we love it: This shoe requires zero break-in time — it's ready to wear right out of the box. Plus, the no-hands CAGE heel system is exceptionally well designed. Lead tester Arthur McMahon noted, “I now use these shoes every day. They've become my go-to, because I can simply step into them and walk out the door.” The Lima 2 also features a handsome design that travels well from the park to dinner at a nice restaurant, so it's quite versatile as a multi-purpose shoe that can be worn any time of day.
Should you buy it? If you're looking for convenience and versatility in a shoe that excels for short walks and daily errands alike, the Kizik Lima 2 is a sure bet. It's easy to wear, practical, and comfortable for short walks. This shoe lacks the dedicated support and energy return of an athletic trainer, so if you need a shoe for long cardio walks, you'll find better options on this list. But if you prize the hands-free functionality for its simple convenience or accessibility, it could be a new game-changer on your shoe rack.
The Kizik Lima 2 is notably convenient. Step in and go -- it's that simple. Credit: Arthur McMahon
How We Tested
Our testing begins with extensive market research to identify the most promising and popular walking shoes available today. From there, we purchase each model at retail, just like you would, to ensure completely unbiased testing. Over several months, we evaluated 28 different walking shoes through controlled lab analysis and real-world use.
Through this comprehensive testing approach, we can provide data-driven recommendations to help you find the perfect walking shoe for your needs.
Our scoring is weighted across five key metrics that we've identified as most important for walking shoe performance:
The heart of our testing happens out in the real world. We logged at least 10,000 steps in each model across varied terrain and conditions. From quick trips to the store to full workdays spent standing on hard surfaces, we used these shoes exactly as you would. The whole time, we were noting any discomfort and hot spots. While we tested breathability in our lab, we also evaluated it during our comfort tests. We noted how long it took for the shoes to break in and evaluated comfort before and after. Additionally, we assessed how easy these walking shoes were to put on and take off.
Support is central to a good pair of walking shoes. Naturally, in our walking tests, we were able to get a good idea of how supportive these shoes were. We didn't stop there, though. We conducted a twist test on every pair of shoes.
Our extensive field testing revealed how each model handled different surfaces, whether pressure points developed over time, and how well the materials held up to regular use. In addition, we considered how easy it was to care for these shoes. We washed them according to the manufacturer and kept details on how streamlined and effective this was to do.
To objectively evaluate traction, we tested each shoe on three common walking surfaces: concrete, gravel, and tile. We noted how the grip changed between surfaces in wet and dry conditions.
We weighed every shoe that we tested in our lab. For men, we used a US 10.5, and for women, we used a US 6.5. Beyond the measured weight, we also noted how heavy the shoe felt to wear and if they felt clunky at all.
Our laboratory team of engineers cut open every pair to measure. In our testing facility, we take precise measurements of each shoe's key specifications according to the World Athletics guidelines. We record stack heights, heel-toe drops, and rocker angles using standardized methods to enable direct comparisons between models. We even cut shoes in half to verify internal construction and materials, allowing us to examine and document the various support structures and cushioning systems manufacturers employ.
Our tests include cutting the shoes in half in our lab, as well as plenty of in-field evaluations during extensive walks.
Why Trust GearLab
Becca Glades goes on walks daily, even in the winter in Colorado. Often working behind a computer, she knows how critical it is to get up and move a little. Becca spent many years working in healthcare as a respiratory therapist, where she frequently walked miles in a single shift on hard tile floors. After months of aches and pains from this, she set out on a mission to find the best walking shoes that prioritize comfort and support. Today, she uses this knowledge and experience to find the best shoes for you to wear on your walks.
Travis Reddinger spends a lot of time on his feet working as a Critical Care Nurse Practitioner at a busy level one hospital. He is always on the move with long hours on hard hospital floors and constant movement between patient rooms. Spending 12+ hours daily on his feet, it's not uncommon to log 15,000-20,000 steps. Through this, the critical value of wearing walking shoes with the right comfort, stability, and traction combo quickly becomes apparent. Outside work, he maintains an active lifestyle, enjoying the Minnesota seasons with his boys, practicing Brazilian Jiu Jitsu, and just about any activity that isn't sitting still.
Mallory Paige is a mother of three who runs an off-grid homestead, spending countless hours on her feet tackling diverse tasks across varied terrain. Her minimum daily step count of 5,000 is often dramatically exceeded by managing family life and homestead duties. When not tending to her property, she works as an artist, logging long hours standing on tile floors in the studio. A Bachelor of Science degree from Colorado State University provides valuable data analysis skills and critical thinking methods that enhance testing protocols at GearLab.
Arthur McMahon spends virtually all of his leisure time on his feet. He's completed dozens of foot races, including numerous marathons and ultramarathons, and has hiked the entire 2,650-mile Pacific Crest Trail from the Mexican border to the Canadian border. And whenever he travels to a new place, walking the city streets is his favorite activity. He's also worked for years in retail environments, so he knows what it's like to stand on his feet for hours on end. All told, he's burned through countless pairs of shoes while walking, hiking, and running, and isn't planning to stop anytime soon.
We test all walking shoes in the field, and also in the lab, before making a recommendation.
How to Choose the Best Walking Shoes
Whether walking for fitness, commuting to work, or standing on your feet all day, choosing the right walking shoes can make a significant difference in your comfort and endurance. While your needs may vary based on your specific activities, understanding some key concepts will help you make an informed decision.
Men's Walking Shoes
We have tested plenty of men's walking shoes over the years. The chart below shows the overall scores for the most important testing metrics.
Key Metric Scores - Men's Walking Shoes
Product
Comfort
Support
Durability
Traction
Hoka Transport 2
8
9
9
9
Altra Experience Flow 3
9.5
9
8
8
Hoka Bondi SR
8.5
9
8
9
Dansko Professional
7.5
9
10
7
On Cloud 6
8
8
7
7
Brooks Ghost Max 3
8
7.5
8.5
5
Under Armour Charged+ Assert 11
6
6.5
8.5
7
Hoka Clifton 10
8
5
7
7
Asics Gel-Contend 9
6
7
6.5
6.5
Kizik Lima 2
6.5
5.5
7
6.5
Nike Motiva
6
6
6
6.5
Adidas Race TR23
4
6
7
5
New Balance 877 V1 Walking Shoe
4
5
7
5
Skechers Go Walk Max
5
4
3
3
Skechers GoWalk Max Effort
5
4
3
3
VAMJAM Ultra Lightweight
5
3
2
5
Women's Walking Shoes
Our women's team has also racked up hundreds of miles testing women's walking shoes. Below are our findings from extensive testing.
Key Metric Scores - Women's Walking Shoes
Product
Comfort
Support
Durability
Traction
Hoka Transport 2
8
8.5
9
9
Altra Experience Flow 3
9
8
8
8
Hoka Clifton 10
9
9
7.5
7
On Cloud 6
8
9
7.5
7.5
New Balance Fresh Foam x 1080 v14
7.6
8
7.8
7.3
New Balance 574 Core
8
8
7
7
Hoka Bondi SR
7
7
9
7
Dansko Professional
7
8
9
5
Asics Gel-Contend 9
7.5
7.5
7
6
Kizik Athens 2
7
7.5
7
6
Ryka Devotion Plus 3
7.5
8
6
6
Under Armour Charged+ Assert 11
6
7
6.5
6.5
Skechers GO WALK Joy
7
6
7
5
New Balance 877 V1
5
6
6.5
5
Nike Motiva
6
5
5
6
Brooks Ghost Max 3
5
5
8
4
Allbirds Tree Runners
5
4
7
4
Adidas Cloudfoam Pure 2.0
4
4
4
3
Feethit Slip On
5
3
3
4
The Importance of Fit
Fit remains the most crucial factor in choosing a walking shoe. A shoe that doesn't fit right will cause pain and potentially injury if worn long-term. There are a few key fit considerations when choosing a walking shoe. including:
Heels should feel secure without slipping to prevent hot spots
Midfoot should feel snug, but not tight
Toes need room to spread, especially during longer walks
Width should accommodate the foot without pressure points
We suggest ordering a few pairs of shoes before committing to just one pair. Try them on and see which feels the best. Keep in mind that out-of-the-box comfort might not match the comfort you'll get after a walk or two. Still, you shouldn't have any major pain points, and they should fit in width and length. if you have narrow or wide feet, opt for a choice that offers these width options, as a shoe that you slide around in or get squished by will only cause discomfort.
The Hoka Transport 2 is one of the most comfortable shoes we have tested, though it takes a walk or two to break in properly. Credit: Becca Glades
Cushioning Level
Walking shoes fall along a cushioning spectrum, from minimalist barefoot styles to plush maximalist designs. Maximalist shoes feature the thickest soles, with 45mm or more stack heights, delivering the most cushioned feel. Moderately cushioned shoes typically have a stack height of 30-35mm in the middle range. At the other extreme, barefoot shoes use ultra-thin soles around 3mm thick, offering just enough rubber to protect feet from rough surfaces while maintaining ground feel. There is no absolute right or wrong; it depends on your use case and personal preference.
These shoes provide maximum impact protection and work well for:
Walking on hard surfaces like concrete
Those with joint sensitivity
Long days on your feet
Comfort-focused walkers
These versatile shoes are characterized by:
Balanced comfort and ground feel
Good stability
Versatile performance
Suitable for most surfaces
These shoes emphasize natural movement and work best for:
Those seeking ground feel
Stronger feet and ankles
More natural walking mechanics
Primarily soft surfaces
The Hoka Clifton 10 has maximum cushion but is a stable ride. Credit: Becca Glades
Understanding Support and Stability
A shoe's support level depends on several factors — its geometric design, the width of its base, the firmness of its foam, and whether it includes internal stabilizing features. Running shoes come in three support categories: neutral, stability, and motion control. Most shoes we review are neutral, with some offering added stability features — these work well for most runners. Motion-control shoes are designed for runners with significant overpronation or oversupination. If you fall into this category, we recommend consulting a podiatrist for personalized shoe recommendations.
The level of arch support built into a shoe can help with pronation issues. Credit: Natalie Kafader
When choosing walking shoes, we think it's helpful to understand how your feet move. Through our testing, we've found that different shoes offer varying levels of support — but what's right for you depends on your natural walking pattern. Almost everyone has some degree of pronation or an inward ankle rolling. It is normal and helps absorb impact. However, some people's feet roll inward more dramatically, called overpronation, or barely at all, known as supination.
If you overpronate:
Your foot rolls notably inward with each step
You may have lower arches or more flexible feet
Look at your current shoes - if you see more wear along the inner edge, that's a clear sign
If you supinate:
Your foot tends to roll outward
You likely have higher, less flexible arches
Check your shoes - excessive wear along the outer edge is the telltale sign
Some shoes, like the Bondi SR, utilize sole rigidity to improve stability. Credit: Arthur McMahon
Through our testing, we've found that stability features can help address both these patterns. Shoes that scored high in our stability tests typically offer a broader base for better balance, strategic foam density to guide foot movement, and more rigid construction in key areas.
We found the Asics Gel-Contend 9 to have more arch support than many others in our lineup. Credit: Matt Lighthart
Intended Use and Environment
Where are you headed in your walking shoes? Your walking routine will largely impact which shoe you choose.
Work and Standing All Day: Opt for a shoe with a stable base and maximum cushioning. If you work where spills are possible, choose a shoe with a slip-resistant bottom and an upper that can be wiped clean.
Fitness Walks and Traveling: Select a shoe that is lightweight and breathable. A mesh upper will be your friend, especially if your feet run warm or you live in a hot climate. A smooth heel-to-toe transition (often called a “rocker” sole) will keep your stride smooth and less strenuous.
Running Errands and Day-to-Day: Headed to the grocery store or on a quick dog walk around the neighborhood? Convenience is key. Out-of-the-box comfort and a hands-free entry will get you moving without getting too caught up in your shoes. Look for a moderately cushioned shoe that prioritizes comfort.
Uneven Terrain and Unpaved Paths: Select a shoe that has excellent traction and stability. The outsole of your shoe should have an exposed lug pattern that helps dig into the ground. Specialized rubber, like Vibram is also great for slick rock and dirt. Some shoes offer weather-resistant alternatives, like Gore-Tex, which can be handy if you live in a wet climate.
For fitness walking, you'll want a shoe that can keep up and keep your feet supported the entire time. Credit: Becca Glades
Lifespan and Durability
The lifespan of your walking shoe will largely depend on how often you walk, with the rule of thumb being to replace every 300-500 miles. For most walkers, averaging 3-5 days of brisk walking a week, you can expect your shoes to last somewhere between 6 months and a year. If you're using your shoes for daily errands, you'll likely get more use out of them, but you'll still want to replace them once a year.
There are a few key signs to look out for to know that your walking shoes are getting worn out:
The tread is becoming bald: this is one of the most obvious signs that your shoes need to be replaced. While it might just look like the tread, it is likely the case that the midsole has also been worn out.
Midsole creasing: You might start to notice large creases forming in the midsole of your shoe. Small wrinkles are typically okay, especially on ultra-cushioned shoes. However, if these become heavily compressed, this is a sign that the midsole is worn out and needs to be replaced.
Lacking springiness: You might notice your shoes don't have the bounce that they used to. They might even have an uneven feel to them as you walk. This is another sign that the midsole has become compressed and should be replaced.
Here is an example of a shoe that is worn out and needs to be replaced. The tread is worn and uneven. The midsole has been creased in multiple places, with a large crease moving parallel to the shoe. Credit: Becca Glades
Getting Started With a Walking Routine
Starting a new routine doesn't have to be so daunting. We asked Alex Glades, physical therapist, to share some tips for starting a new walking routine. Alex suggests starting small and working your way up. He says, “The best way to get going with a walking routine is to keep it to 20 minutes a day for the first few weeks. The walks should be attainable and not interfere with the rest of your day.” He goes on to say, “After a few weeks of this, and once you feel comfortable in this routine, you can start adding a little more. You have two options. Either add more time to your walk and keep the pace the same. Or, increase the pace and keep it to 20 minutes.” The goal is to push yourself slightly, but still in an attainable way.
Find places to walk that you enjoy. It could be around your neighborhood, at a nearby park, or even your local mall. Credit: Arthur McMahon
Do You Need a Gender-Specific Shoe?
Women's specific walking shoes aren't just smaller versions of men's models. Several important design differences accommodate varying foot shapes, biomechanics, and support needs unique to women.
Women's shoes often feature softer midsoles designed for lighter wearers. While men's shoes tend to be wider overall, women's shoes typically have different proportional widths, featuring a narrower heel cup to secure the back of the foot while maintaining a roomy forefoot for natural toe splay. Women are more likely to overpronate due to differences in hip and pelvis structure, so women's shoes often incorporate more stability-oriented features. The narrower heel cup helps maintain proper foot positioning and guides the foot into an optimal landing.
However, you shouldn't feel restricted to purchasing shoes only within your gender category. The best shoe is ultimately the one that feels most comfortable on your feet.
No matter what shoe you choose, we hope your feet remain comfy and happy the whole time. Credit: Matt Lighthart
Other Notable Walking Shoes
Hoka Bondi 9 - We prefer the Hoka Bondi SR for walking due to the added stability and slip-resistant bottom. However, the Bondi 9 could be a good choice if you want more flexibility and breathability.
New Balance Fresh Foam X 1080v14 - Our women's running team loves this shoe for its cushion and comfort. While it does great for picking up the pace, it is still a good walking shoe option if you're after plush cushion underfoot.
Asics Gel-Nimbus 28 - These offer an accommodating toe box and a slim heel for a snug fit. They are very cushioned underfoot, but we have concerns about their versatility with traction and being overly plush.
Brooks Addiction Walker 2 - These shoes have mixed reviews regarding fit and comfort. We feel the Hoka Bondi SR offers more due to its toe box shape, stable cushion underfoot, and slip-resistant outsole.
Brooks Ghost Max SE - Similar to the Brooks Ghost Max 3, these have a mesh and suede upper rather than mesh. They have similar cushion and stability underfoot, but offer a more casual day-to-day look.
Conclusion
Remember that investing in quality walking shoes pays dividends in comfort and injury prevention. Even if you need to spend a bit more initially, better shoes typically last longer and provide superior support and comfort. The best walking shoe for you combines appropriate support, a comfortable fit, and durability suitable for your specific needs. It's worth taking the time to find the pair that is right for you. After all, these shoes will be your daily companions for hundreds of miles of walking.
If you walk mostly on trails, you'll want to check out our trail running shoe and our hiking shoe reviews. Many also use running shoes for daily walking and work shoes.
