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Whether you're prepping to get out for a morning dog walk or you 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 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 focus on comfort, support, and traction, still strongly considering their weight and durability.
Our male and female testers agreed that the Hoka Transport is a top-performing walking shoe. It offers a great combination of comfort, support, and traction. And if you're looking for a shoe that allows for natural toe splay, you should check out the Altra Experience Flow, which has a comfortably wide toe box and proved a versatile workhorse in our testing.
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.
Editor's Note: This review was updated on May 2, 2025, with the new recommendations, including the On Cloud 6 and Hoka Clifton 10.
Who It Is Best For: The Hoka Transport is for anyone who spends considerable time on their feet or on varying ground types. They thrive as very stable and comfortable shoes, yet they are not overly plush so that we could stay in them for hours. The shoe resembles a hiking shoe with the more-than-capable outsole, so if you often walk on dirt or gravel, these are a great choice.
Why We Love It: During our extensive testing, this shoe impressed us with its Goldilocks-level cushioning - substantial enough for comfort but never feeling overly plush. Our lead tester, Mallory Paige noted, “From the moment I slipped on the Transport, I noticed its departure from Hoka's typically extra-plush feel. During my 10,000-step walking test, these shoes demonstrated exceptional comfort without requiring any break-in period.” We were impressed by the Transport's ability to tackle various ground types.
Should You Buy It: The price of the Hoka Transport can be tough. However, we are impressed by the longevity of these shoes and think the price is justifiable with enough wear. We recommend these shoes to just about anyone venturing out on a walk, especially if you have some outdoor paths in mind.
Who It Is Best For: The Altra Experience Flow is for anyone maximizing comfort in a low drop, wide toe box design. Our lead tester, Travis Reddinger, noted, “I wore these shoes for hours on end and my feet were happy the entire time. The toe box allowed my toes to spread naturally, and the heel cup kept my foot secure.”
Why We Love It: This shoe delivered excellent shock absorption while still feeling responsive, so we felt confident tackling the longest of walks. The outsole kept us sure-footed on various ground types, and the specialized high-wear rubber increases the longevity. Sticking true to the Altra style, these shoes have just four millimeters of heel-to-toe drop and a wide toe box. Our team especially appreciated this design for a natural feeling stride. Yet, we didn't experience premature fatigue thanks to the thick cushion underfoot.
Should You Buy It: We wholeheartedly believe the Experience Flow is worth the investment. However, those accustomed to a large heel-to-toe drop might also find the low-drop design a bit challenging to adjust to. Rest assured, the transition period doesn't last too long, and the low drop might benefit your gait. We continue to reach for the Altra Experience Flow during our walks and daily outings, and think you will too.
Who It Is Best For: If you need a shoe for the day-to-day or shorter walks, but don't necessarily venture on extensive strolls, the Skechers GO WALK Joy is an excellent choice. They don't have the most robust support, but they are very comfortable and easy to get on and off. While it may not be the best choice for serious walking enthusiasts or those needing specific support features, it's ideal for someone seeking a reliable, comfortable shoe for everyday errands and moderate activity.
Why We Love It: During our first walk in them, they quickly molded to our feet and our team noted, “These shoes are surprisingly comfortable once broken in, which didn't take much time to achieve.” These are among the lightest options we tested, matching or beating the weight of shoes, which cost twice as much. The Go Walk Joy is one of the few slip-on designs that still feels comfortable. We still needed to use our hands to remove them, but taking them off was a hands-free experience.
Should You Buy It: The Go Walk Joy is one of the most affordable options we tested. Not only that, but it held up great during our extensive tests. If you are after a walking shoe for mild to moderate outings, this is one to consider seriously. If you are doing long-distance or fast-paced walks, we suggest looking into another, more supportive option.
Who it is best for: The Under Armour Charged Assert 10 is ideal for budget-conscious walkers who need a versatile shoe for short walks, daily errands, or casual use around town. It suits those with warm feet due to its excellent breathability, as confirmed by lab and real-world tests. However, it's less suitable for long walks or users prioritizing ankle stability.
Why we love it: It has a well-rounded performance at an affordable price. The compression-molded midsole effectively absorbs impact without feeling clunky, providing a balanced walking experience. Testers praised its reliable traction, noting, “Even on wet surfaces, I felt comfortable with my footing.” Its top-tier breathability keeps feet cool, making it a standout for warm conditions. The shoe's durability was also impressive during testing, offering respectable longevity for its cost.
Should you buy it? This is a great choice for budget-friendly, short-distance walking shoes with solid traction and breathability. However, it requires a break-in period for optimal comfort and lacks the support needed for extensive walks. Ankle stability is a concern for those needing more security. If you're after a durable, affordable shoe for casual use and don't mind a brief break-in, it's a strong contender; for longer walks or enhanced stability, consider alternatives.
Heel-to-Toe Drop: 10 mm | Weight (per shoe): 11.14 oz
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 with 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 is for walkers needing a versatile shoe for diverse environments, from outdoor trails to hard floors. During testing, Travis Reddinger said, “As a Nurse Practitioner, I spend many hours upright on my feet. Using the Transport for prolonged standing at work, I am relieved that I did not notice any lower back or knee discomfort.” Its hiking-shoe-like lugs and water-repellent, reflective Cordura upper suit those tackling varied terrains and weather conditions, though it's less ideal for those prioritizing breathability or seeking a budget-friendly option for casual wear.
Why we love it: In two words: versatility and comfort. The lugs provide excellent traction across outdoor routes while remaining suitable for indoor surfaces. The quick toggle lacing system ensures easy on-and-off convenience, and the shoe balances stability and comfort without feeling bulky. Its abrasion-resistant, water-repellent Cordura upper and reflective elements enhance durability and safety. Testers praised its smooth heel-to-toe movement and high-quality build, expecting it to last multiple walking seasons, making it a standout for demanding, varied use.
Should you buy it? The Transport is for walkers needing a durable, supportive shoe for mixed terrains and long hours, but its higher price and stiffer, less breathable Cordura upper may deter some. If you need a reliable, multi-environment shoe with excellent stability and don't mind the cost or slightly reduced breathability, the Transport is a standout; for budget-conscious or breathability-focused buyers, consider alternatives.
Heel-to-Toe Drop: 9 mm | Weight (per shoe): 11.96 oz
Speed laces can create pressure points until broken in
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.
Who it is best for: The Dansko Professional is built for those who spend hours on their feet—especially professionals in the medical field, hospitality, or service industry. If you're struggling with heel pain from long periods of standing, this supportive, slip-resistant clog may be exactly what you need. Best suited for indoor use or concrete surfaces, it's not ideal for uneven terrain or gravel paths.
Why we love it: This is a longtime favorite for good reason. Easy to slip on and off, it features a wide toe box to accommodate swelling and a solid leather upper for durability and splash resistance. The thick polyurethane sole absorbs impact and adds a touch of propulsion with its slight rocker profile, helping prevent fatigue during long shifts. “I have had a single pair of Dansko clogs at work for many years and have not had any issues with material failure or wear,” said our lead tester. After extensive use, we can confidently say it delivers on long-lasting support and performance.
Should you buy it? If you're shopping for a workhorse shoe that's durable, supportive, and slip-resistant, the Dansko Professional is a solid investment. Just know there's a bit of a learning curve: the elevated heel design allows for movement, which some users may find unstable at first. They also require a break-in period before molding comfortably to your feet, and the leather upper doesn't breathe like mesh alternatives. But this clog continues to set the bar for anyone prioritizing all-day support and durability over breathability and agility.
Heel-to-Toe Drop: 26 mm | Weight (per shoe): 17 oz
Who It Is Best For: The On Cloud 6 is a great fit for someone who spends many hours on their feet, but also needs a shoe that can comfortably take them around town running errands or walking the dog. They are wonderfully lightweight, but maintain stability and support in all the right places. They will keep your feet comfortable and ready for whatever the day brings.
Why We Love It: Our tester, Dominik Bleeg, explains, “During the many 12-hour shifts that I wore the On Cloud 6, my feet felt secure and comfortable.” They are lightweight and airy, which feels great after a long day on our feet. Their snug fit makes for a supportive fit that is well balanced with a not overly plush sole and a mesh upper that combats hot feet. They held up just as well when we wore them out walking the dog or going about town.
Should You Buy It: The shoes have some minor considerations, including the price. Dominik goes on to say, “They might seem a little pricey at first, but after putting them through a number of 12-hour shifts, I'm completely sold. My feet were comfortable, didn't get hot, and felt supported all day.” The price is well worth it if you put in long days standing on your feet and need a shoe that can keep you moving through the day.
Heel-to-Toe Drop: 30 mm | Weight (per shoe): 9.5 oz
Who it is best for: The Kizik Athens is ideal for active individuals who need a reliable walking shoe with easy on/off functionality. It's especially suited for people who value convenience—busy parents, commuters, or healthcare workers who are constantly in motion. This shoe delivers if you're on your feet all day but still want something that's quick to slip on without sacrificing comfort.
Why we love it: After extensive testing—including multiple 10,000-step days—we found the Kizik Athens game-changer in the walking shoe space. Its standout feature is the innovative CAGE heel mechanism, which delivers on the hands-free promise. “While some shoes are almost hands-free, the Athens are the only ones I've tested that can truly make this claim,” said lead tester Mallory Paige. The adaptive knit upper required zero break-in, and the Rabbit Foam outsole offered balanced cushioning that felt great on concrete and tile alike. For daily errands and fast-paced routines, this shoe hit all the marks.
Should you buy it? This is absolutely worth a look if you value convenience, innovation, and a low-fuss fit. It's impressively lightweight, easy to wear, and comfortable for everyday use. That said, the minimal arch support may lead to fatigue over longer walks, and the knit construction tends to trap odors, though they're machine washable, which helps. Still, for those looking for true hands-free functionality without giving up style or comfort, the Athens is one of the most compelling choices in the category.
The heel cage on the Kizik Athens makes for a truly hands free experience.
Credit: Mallory Paige
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.
After thorough research we purchase and test 15 of the top walking shoes on the market.
Credit: Mallory Paige
Next, 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.
Once the shoes have been cut in half, we are able to take precise measurements and further assess the build quality.
Credit: Natalie Kafader
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. This 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.
We log thousands of steps on each walking shoe on cement, tile, and gravel surfaces.
Credit: Mallory Paige
To evaluate traction objectively, we tested each shoe across three common walking surfaces: concrete, gravel, and tile. We noted how the grip changed between surfaces in wet and dry conditions. We also carefully tracked any signs of premature wear or durability concerns that emerged during our testing period. 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:
Comfort (30% of the overall score)
Support (25%)
Traction (20%)
Weight (15%)
Durability (10%)
After tons of walking, we put these shoes through a series of tests in our lab.
Credit: Natalie Kafader
Why Trust GearLab
Our men's shoe tester 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, Travis has learned the critical value of wearing walking shoes with the right comfort, stability, and traction combo. Outside work, he maintains his active lifestyle, enjoying the Minnesota seasons with his boys, Brazilian Jiu Jitsu, and just about any activity that isn't sitting still.
Our lead women's tester, Mallory Paige, brings a unique blend of real-world experience and analytical expertise. As a mother of three running an off-grid homestead, she spends 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, Mallory works as an artist, logging long hours standing on tile floors in her studio. Her Bachelor of Science degree from Colorado State University gave her valuable data analysis skills and critical thinking methods that enhance our testing protocols. This combination of practical experience and analytical background allows her to evaluate walking shoes through both quantitative measurements and qualitative assessments of real-world performance.
Alex Glades, Doctor of Physical Therapy, has medically reviewed this article and includes his thoughts on getting started with a walking routine and what to look for in a shoe. Alex says, “Look for a shoe that fits your natural foot shape, particularly in the toe box. Avoid any shoe that causes your toes to squish in, as this can cause future problems like bunions and long-term pain.” Alex says, “I prefer walking shoes with a minimal-to-moderate heel-to-toe drop, as an excess drop can cause weakness in the feet and ankles. However, you should prioritize the most comfortable and natural feeling for you.”
In our lab, we cut the shoes in half and took measurements of the heel stack height.
Comparing the exterior to the interior during our lab tests.
We test each shoe in the lab and in the field to make the best recommendations.
We test all our shoes in the lab and the field 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.
The best walking shoe for you depends a lot on your specific needs and use case.
Credit: Natalie Kafader
Women's Walking Shoes
We tested the 17 most popular women's walking shoes out there. Below is a breakdown of how they did in some of our key metrics. To learn more about these shoes, check out our review of women's walking shoes.
Key Metric Scores - Women's Walking Shoes
Product
Comfort
Support
Traction
Weight
Hoka Clifton 10
9.5
9
8
7.8
Hoka Transport
9.5
9
9
6.6
Brooks Ghost Max 2
9
9
8.5
7
Altra Experience Flow
8.5
8
8
8
On Cloud 6
8
9
7
8
Hoka Arahi 7
7.5
7
7.5
7.6
Ryka Devotion Plus 3
8
8
6
7.4
Kizik Athens
8
7
7
5.7
New Balance Fresh Foam X 1080 v13
7
7
6
7.4
Skechers GO WALK Joy
7
6
5
9
Under Armour Charged Assert 10
6
6
7
7.2
Nike Motiva
6
5
6
7.1
Hoka Bondi SR
6
7
7
4
Dansko Professional
7
8
5
3
New Balance 877 V1
5
6
5
6.3
Feethit Slip On
5
3
4
8.1
Adidas Cloudfoam Pure 2.0
4
4
3
8.6
Men's Walking Shoes
We assessed the 13 most intriguing models on the market for men's walking shoes. Our men's specific walking shoe review covers each of these in more detail.
Key Metric Scores - Men's Walking Shoes
Product
Comfort
Support
Traction
Weight
Altra Experience Flow
8.5
8.5
8
7.7
Hoka Transport
8
8.5
9
6.6
On Cloud 6
8
8
7
7.4
Brooks Ghost Max 2
7
7
7
6.7
Dansko Professional
7.5
9
7
4.0
Under Armour Charged Assert 10
5.5
6.5
7
6.8
Nike Motiva
6
6
6.5
6.6
Kizik Lima Slip On
6.5
5
6
6.2
VAMJAM Ultra Lightweight
5
3
5
9.0
Adidas Race TR23
4
6
5
5.9
Skechers Go Walk Max
5
4
3
8.2
New Balance 877 V1 Walking Shoe
4
5
5
5.8
Skechers GoWalk Max Effort
5
4
3
7.7
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.
You don't have to pick a gender-specific design, but there are some benefits worth considering for a shoe like the Ryka Devotion that is made specifically for women.
Credit: Natalie Kafader
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.
Types of Walking Shoes
Your walking style and daily activities will largely dictate which shoe style is best for you. Suppose your typical day involves a 30-minute morning walk around the neighborhood or running errands. In that case, your shoe needs will differ significantly from someone who walks several miles daily or spends long hours standing on hard surfaces. The location, frequency, and duration of your walking all matter when selecting the right shoe.
Daily Walking Shoes
These versatile shoes represent what most people think of as standard walking shoes. They balance comfort with support and typically offer good durability for regular use. Daily walkers usually provide moderate cushioning and stability features suitable for various surfaces and walking speeds. They occupy different points along the spectrum between prioritizing comfort and prioritizing responsiveness, allowing you to choose based on personal preference.
The On Cloud 6 is one of our favorite shoes for daily wear thanks to its balanced design.
Credit: Becca Glades
Fitness Walking Shoes
If you are starting a new walking routine or are already rolling with one, you will want a solid pair of walking shoes on your side. Shoes prioritizing stability are key, especially if your walks include uneven surfaces, like gravel. You will also want a comfortable shoe that doesn't cause hot spots. Opting for a choice with an adjustable fit can aid in both comfort and stability. Look for a shoe with arch support, cushion underfoot, and low to mid heel-to-toe drops. Our picks for fitness walking include the On Cloud 6, Altra Experience Flow, Hoka Transport, and Brooks Ghost Max 2.
Max-Cushioning Walking Shoes
Max-cushioning shoes prioritize shock absorption and comfort above all else. These shoes feature noticeably high stack heights - the thickness between your foot and the ground. Most use specialized foam materials designed to absorb impact forces during each step. While this cushioning protects your joints, it often comes with trade-offs. The added padding typically increases weight and can make the shoes feel less responsive. These shoes work best for those walking on hard surfaces like concrete or anyone seeking maximum impact protection.
The Hoka Clifton 10 is one of our favorite shoes for its all-around practicality, including fitness walks.
Credit: Becca Glades
Minimalist Walking Shoes
At the other end of the spectrum, minimalist walking shoes promote natural foot movement while providing basic protection. These shoes typically feature low stack heights, minimal heel-to-toe drop, and wider toe boxes to allow natural foot splaying. Physical therapist Alex Glades says, “While minimalist shoes offer less cushioning, they can help strengthen the muscles in your feet and promote better walking mechanics.” However, transitioning to minimalist shoes requires patience - your feet and legs need time to adapt to the reduced cushioning.
A shoe with very little cushion may not offer enough comfort on hard surfaces.
Credit: Natalie Kafader
How Much Cushion is Right for You?
As discussed above, walking shoes fall along a cushioning spectrum, from plush maximalist designs to minimal barefoot styles. Maximalist shoes feature the thickest soles, with 45mm or more stack heights, delivering the most cushioned feel. Moderately cushioned shoes typically have stack heights between 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.
The Hoka Clifton 10 has maximum cushion but is a stable ride.
Credit: Becca Glades
High Cushioning (30mm+ stack height)
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
Moderate Cushioning (20-30mm stack height)
These versatile shoes are characterized by:
Balanced comfort and ground feel
Good stability
Versatile performance
Suitable for most surfaces
Minimal Cushioning (<20mm stack height)
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 Brooks Ghost Max 2 offers plenty of cushion for all-day comfort.
Credit: Natalie Kafader
Understanding Support Needs
A shoe's support level depends on several factors - its geometric design, how wide the base is, how firm the foam feels, 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 issues. 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
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 wider base for better balance, strategic foam density to guide foot movement, and more rigid construction in key areas.
Choosing the right support based on your gait can drastically improve your walking experience.
Credit: Travis Reddinger
Midsole Features
The midsole represents the heart of any walking shoe, significantly affecting comfort, support, and overall performance. Understanding key midsole characteristics helps you make an informed choice.
Midsole Features
Heel Stack
Heel-to-Toe Drop
Overall Comfort
Hoka Clifton 10
38 mm
7 mm
1
2
3
4
5
Hoka Transport
34 mm
7 mm
1
2
3
4
5
Altra Experience Flow
31 mm
4 mm
1
2
3
4
5
On Cloud 6 - Women's
29 mm
9 mm
1
2
3
4
5
Dansko Professional
50 mm
26 mm
1
2
3
4
5
Kizik Athens
38 mm
15 mm
1
2
3
4
5
Skechers GO WALK Joy
29 mm
9 mm
1
2
3
4
5
Under Armour Charged Assert 10
33 mm
10 mm
1
2
3
4
5
Stack Height
This measurement refers to the total thickness between your foot and the ground, including all layers of cushioning. Higher stack heights typically offer more shock absorption but may reduce stability and ground feel. Lower stack heights provide better ground connection but less impact protection. While stack height contributes to cushioning, the quality and type of materials matter as much as quantity.
The Dansko Professional has a very large stack height.
Credit: Natalie Kafader
Heel-to-Toe Drop
This measurement indicates the difference in height between the heel and the forefoot. Traditional walking shoes often feature drops between 8-12mm, which can help reduce strain on the Achilles tendon. Lower drops (0-4mm) promote a more natural foot position but require stronger calves and ankles. Consider your walking style and any existing foot conditions when choosing drop height.
The Altra Experience Flow has a lower drop, which may take some getting used to.
Credit: Natalie Kafader
Rocker Design
Many walking shoes incorporate rocker soles - curved geometry that helps roll the foot forward during each step. A more aggressive rocker can reduce forefoot fatigue and help propel you forward, though it may feel less stable initially. Subtle rockers provide gentle assistance while maintaining a natural feel. Your walking speed and style should influence how much rocker you prefer.
A more aggressive rocker can reduce forefoot fatigue and help propel you forward, though it may feel less stable.
Credit: Natalie Kafader
The Importance of Fit
Fit remains perhaps the most crucial factor in choosing walking shoes. Even the most advanced features won't help if the shoes don't fit properly. Consider these fitting guidelines:
Heel should feel secure without slipping
Midfoot should feel snug but not tight
Toes need room to spread, especially during longer walks
About half an inch of space between the longest toe and shoe end
Width should accommodate foot without pressure points
Traction and Outsole Design
The outsole's design determines how well your shoes grip various surfaces. Different walking environments demand different traction patterns and rubber compounds.
The bubble design on the Skechers Go Walk Joy provides adequate traction for most uses.
Credit: Mallory Paige
Look for outsoles with moderate lugs and durable rubber compounds for urban environments. A balanced design provides good grip on concrete and tile without being too aggressive. Flexible groove patterns help maintain natural foot motion while walking. If you frequently encounter wet conditions, seek outsoles with water-dispersing channels and softer rubber compounds that maintain grip on slick surfaces.
The sole pattern and material are important to prevent slippage on wet surfaces.
Credit: Natalie Kafader
However, remember that softer rubbers typically wear faster than firmer compounds.
Multi-surface walkers should consider versatile outsole designs with medium-depth lugs. These provide adequate grip across various surfaces without excessive wear or debris collection. Pay attention to the spacing between lugs - too tight can trap rocks and mud, while too wide may reduce overall traction.
Weight Considerations
While lightweight shoes can feel more comfortable during long walks, don't make weight your only consideration. The lightest shoes often sacrifice durability or support features that you might need. Instead, balance weight and functionality that matches your walking style. Generally, daily walking shoes weighing 7-10 ounces generally provide a good balance of features and comfort. Lighter shoes (under 7 ounces) might work well for casual walks but may lack long-term durability. Heavier shoes (over 11 ounces) typically offer more support and cushioning but can cause fatigue during extended walking sessions.
The Cloud 6 is a perfect blend of being lightweight and supportive.
Credit: Natalie Kafader
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.
When to Replace Your Walking Shoes
Most walking shoes need replacement after 400-500 miles of use. Watch for visible compression or wrinkles in the midsole foam and worn tread patterns, especially in high-impact areas. You'll also want to keep an eye out for new aches or discomfort during walks, loss of cushioning or bounce, and uneven wear patterns on the outsole. Regular replacement helps prevent injury and maintains proper support. Track your mileage or establish a regular replacement schedule based on your walking routine.
We hope our review has helped you find the perfect pair of walking shoes for your needs and budget.
Credit: Travis Reddinger
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, 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.
—Mallory Paige, Travis Reddinger, and Dominik Bleeg
