We buy all the products we test — no freebies from companies. If you purchase through our links, we may earn a commission, which helps support our testing.
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 April 17, 2025, with a new approach to recommending award winners and helping you narrow your shortlist.
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
Balances plush cushioning with rock-solid stability
Smooth, natural walking motion
High-quality construction with reinforced wear points
REASONS TO AVOID
Insulation can make feet warm
High price tag
Who it is best for: The Brooks Ghost Max 2 is for walkers or professionals who are on their feet for long hours and want maximum impact protection without the typical instability that comes with heavily cushioned shoes. If you've struggled with foot fatigue or pressure points, this model offers a reliable fix, especially for those used to high-mileage walking or standing on hard surfaces. If you're heat-sensitive or walking in warmer climates, a more breathable shoe like the Altra Experience Flow may be better.
Why we love it: It surprised us with how stable a max-cushioned shoe can feel. The midsole hits a sweet spot between soft and supportive. “During my 10,000-step test, I experienced no foot fatigue or pressure points, even when wearing the shoes straight out of the box,” said our lead tester. The wide platform and 6mm drop provide confident footing even on stairs and uneven surfaces. We were also impressed by the rocker geometry, which naturally propelled our stride without feeling aggressive. And when it came to traction, the outsole delivered reliable grip across wet sidewalks, tile, and gravel.
Should you buy it? If you're looking for a max-cushioned shoe that won't leave you feeling wobbly or unstable, this is worth the investment. Yes, the large 37mm heel stack takes a moment to get used to, and the shoe runs a bit hot during summer months, but its thoughtful design and premium durability more than justify the price. The dense rubber outsole barely wore down after months of use, making it one of the most durable models in our lineup. For long days on your feet, it's hard to beat this standout shoe's comfort, stability, and wear longevity.
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
Our team is hard at work testing the new version of this shoe, the On Cloud 6. Our team will report back soon with updated findings on this new version. In the meantime, we still think the On Cloud 5 is a spectacular shoe and the current sale prices are worth considering.
Who it is best for: The On Cloud 5 is ideal for travelers, commuters, and anyone who needs a supportive yet stylish shoe that's versatile enough for everything from airport security lines to evening neighborhood strolls. 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. “After wearing these for long indoor and outdoor walks, I am happy to report my feet stayed stable, secure, and comfortable throughout the entirety of it,” said lead tester Mallory Paige.
Should you buy it? If you're looking for one shoe to do it all—from museum touring to light hiking—the On Cloud 5 is a strong contender. Its pod-like sole delivers excellent cushioning, though it does tend to trap small 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. We also wished for additional width options to accommodate different foot shapes better. Still, for most users, its convenience, comfort, and versatility makes 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
The Dansko Professional is a classic in the service and medical industries for their support and comfort. Our testing found this to be true, and we were impressed by the shoe's durability.
The On Cloud 6 has recently been released with the manufacturer stating they've added a sock liner and a wider opening. Our team is working hard on testing these shoes and will report back soon. Still, we believe the On Cloud 5 is a great option, and with the new version available, the former can be found at a steal of a deal. We recommend taking advantage of these sale prices while they last. Check back soon for an update on the On Cloud 6.
Who it is best for: The On Cloud 5 is a top pick for anyone who's on their feet all day—whether you're taking long walks, working long shifts, traveling, or just running errands around town. Its elastic laces and breathable mesh upper make it especially appealing for people who value comfort and convenience in their everyday footwear. If you're regularly walking on gravel or light trails, the Hoka Transport might be a better fit due to its superior debris resistance.
Why we love it: We were happy to throw these on, knowing we had a big day ahead. The midsole shaves weight without sacrificing support or impact protection, and the cushioning hits a sweet spot between comfort and stability. “The cushioning was stable enough for long days on my feet, but continued to provide comfort step after step,” said Travis Reddinger, our lead tester. The flexible, pod-style sole and breathable upper kept our feet cool and supported for hours, and the elastic laces made on-and-off a breeze.
Should you buy it? If you're after a lightweight, supportive walking shoe that's easy to slip on and handles long days well, this is a great choice. The sole's pod design provides a flexible-yet-stable ride, though it can collect debris like sticks and pebbles—something to consider if you're often on gravel or trails. Despite this minor annoyance, these are the shoes we kept reaching for when comfort and support were non-negotiable.
Heel-to-Toe Drop: 8 mm| Weight (per shoe): 9.23 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.
Our testers were impressed with the overall comfort of these shoes and the genuinely hands-free design.
Credit: Natalie Kafader
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.
Our testing team cuts each shoe in half so that we can get in-house measurements and fully evaluate the build from the inside out.
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.
We cut these shoes in half to see what they were made of and measure everything we could.
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 15 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 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 5
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
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 5
8
8
7
7.6
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 5 is one of our favorite shoes for day-to-day wear, as it is the perfect balance of comfort and support.
Credit: Mallory Paige
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 5, 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.
Some shoes have a lot of cushion underfoot, which can take some break-in if you are not used to it.
Credit: Mallory Paige
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.
Our testers found the amount of cushioning on the On Cloud 5 to be a great balance between cushion and support.
Credit: Mallory Paige
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
Rocker Angle
Rocker Apex
Hoka Transport
34 mm
7 mm
21.5 deg
6.5 in.
On Cloud 5
30 mm
8 mm
19.5 deg
7.5 in.
Under Armour Charged Assert 10
33 mm
10 mm
23.0 deg
8.3 in.
Brooks Ghost Max 2
37 mm
8 mm
26.0 deg
7.0 in.
Dansko Professional
50 mm
26 mm
22.5 deg
8.2 in.
Altra Experience Flow
31 mm
4 mm
24.5 deg
8.3 in.
Kizik Athens
38 mm
15 mm
24.0 deg
7.0 in.
Skechers GO WALK Joy
29 mm
9 mm
19.5 deg
6.5 in.
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.
Weight matters because a heavier shoe can cause increased fatigue.
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.
