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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 2 to be among the best, which has a comfortably wide 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 10 as a budget pick due to the support and breathability. Meanwhile, our women's team appreciated the Ryka Devotion Plus 3 because it offered all-day comfort for half the price of most.
Editor's Note: This review was updated on November 10, 2025, to include new recommendations and new visuals for our favorite shoes.
Who It Is Best For: The Altra Experience Flow 2 is ideal for anyone who simply wants to slip on a stable and comfortable shoe and just go about their day. Its low heel drop and wide toe box design allows for your feet to step naturally without hindrance, and the energetic midsole foam puts a spring in your step that'll help you walk for miles without fatigue. Tester Arthur McMahon said, “These Altra shoes are a joy to wear. I've worn these for weeks and would still choose them first over any other shoe in my closet.” They're best for indoor use, paved paths, and easy trails.
Why We Love It: This shoe feels like a natural addition to your foot when you wear it. Everything about its design conforms to your natural foot movement and enhances the walking experience. The wide toe box allows your toes to splay naturally as if you were walking barefoot, and the low 4mm heel drop keeps your foot in a more natural position when flat on the ground. Altra's new EGO P35 midsole foam is super comfortable, absorbing the shock of your steps with ease, yet it's also responsive, adding a bit of forward momentum to your next step. Plus, the uppers are nicely padded, well-fitting, and wonderfully breezy. It's a complete package.
Should You Buy It: Absolutely. The Altra Experience Flow 2 is a delight to walk in and is very much worth its cost. That said, the wide toe box and low heel drop can feel a bit funky to those who have never worn such a shoe before. To us, these design decisions are appreciated and applauded — we think the shoe is better because of them. But some may find the change from more traditionally high heel drops and slimmer toe boxes to be too strange. But you should certainly give them a try. We're going to keep using these Altras because they're our favorite to walk in, and we think you'll like them, too.
Weight(men's size 10.5): 8.79 oz|Heel-to-Toe Drop: 4 mm
Weight(women's size 6.5): 6.85 oz|Heel-to-Toe Drop: 4 mm
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|Heel-to-Toe Drop: 10 mm
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 for users who prioritize 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 who need greater 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.
Weight (men's size 10.5): 11.14 oz| Heel-to-Toe Drop: 10 mm
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.
Weight(women's size 6.5): 8.30 oz | Heel-to-Toe Drop: 7 mm
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.
Weight(men's size 10.5): 11.96 oz|Heel-to-Toe Drop: 9 mm
Weight(women's size 6.5):8.92 oz|Heel-to-Toe Drop: 7 mm
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|Heel-to-Toe Drop: 9 mm
Weight(women's size 6.5): 7.59 oz|Heel-to-Toe Drop: 9 mm
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.
Weight (men's size 10.5): 14.52 oz| Heel-to-Toe Drop: 6 mm
Weight (women's size 6.5): 11.44 oz| Heel-to-Toe Drop: 7 mm
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.
Weight (women's size 6.5): 10.46 oz | Heel-to-Toe Drop: 15 mm
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.
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.
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 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.
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.
After tons of walking, we put these shoes through a series of tests in our lab.
Credit: Natalie Kafader
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.
Choosing the best walking shoe for you is about more than the qualities of the shoe itself -- it's also about how you're going to use it.
Credit: Arthur McMahon
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
Traction
Weight
Altra Experience Flow 2
9
8.5
8
7.7
Hoka Bondi SR
8.5
9
9
5.1
Hoka Transport
7.5
8.5
9
6.3
On Cloud 6
8
8
7
7.4
Dansko Professional
7.5
9
7
4.0
Brooks Ghost Max 3
8
7.5
5
6.5
Hoka Clifton 10
8
5
7
6.9
Under Armour Charged Assert 10
5.5
6.5
7
6.7
Nike Motiva
6
6
6.5
6.2
Kizik Lima Slip On
6.5
5
6
6.0
VAMJAM Ultra Lightweight
5
3
5
9.0
Adidas Race TR23
4
6
5
5.6
Skechers Go Walk Max
5
4
3
8.2
Skechers GoWalk Max Effort
5
4
3
7.8
New Balance 877 V1 Walking Shoe
4
5
5
5.7
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
Traction
Weight
Altra Experience Flow 2
9.5
9
8
7.9
Hoka Transport
9.5
9
9
6.6
Hoka Clifton 10
9
9
8
7.0
On Cloud 6
8
9
7.5
7.5
New Balance 574 Core
8
8
8
6.1
New Balance Fresh Foam x 1080 v14
7.6
8
7.3
7.2
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
Skechers GO WALK Joy
7
6
5
9.0
Under Armour Charged Assert 10
6
6
7
7.2
Nike Motiva
6
5
6
7.1
Hoka Bondi SR
6
7
7
3.7
Dansko Professional
7
8
5
3.0
New Balance 877 V1
5
6
5
6.3
Brooks Ghost Max 3
5
5
4
7.0
Allbirds Tree Runners
5
4
4
7.9
Feethit Slip On
5
3
4
8.1
Adidas Cloudfoam Pure 2.0
4
4
3
8.6
Types of Walking Shoes
Your walking style and daily activities will largely dictate which shoe style is best for you. For instance, 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 those of 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.
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 offer moderate cushioning and stability, suitable for a range of 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.
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 an adjustable-fit option can enhance both comfort and stability. Look for a shoe with arch support, cushioning underfoot, and a low-to-mid heel-to-toe drop. Our picks for fitness walking include the On Cloud 6, Altra Experience Flow 2, Hoka Transport, and Brooks Ghost Max 3.
Max-cushioning shoes prioritize shock absorption and comfort above all else. These shoes feature notably high stack heights — the thickness between your foot and the ground — like the Hoka Bondi SR. 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.
At the other end of the spectrum, minimalist walking shoes promote natural foot movement while providing basic protection, such as the Altra Experience Flow 2. 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.
The Hoka Clifton 10 is one of our favorite shoes for its all-around practicality, including fitness walks.
Credit: Becca Glades
When Should You Replace Your Walking Shoes?
Most walking shoes need to be replaced 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
New aches or discomfort during walks
Loss of cushioning or bounce
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.
The On Cloud 6 is one of our favorite shoes for daily wear thanks to its balanced design.
Credit: Becca Glades
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 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 Needs
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.
Others, like the Altra Experience Flow 2, utilize flexibility and a lower heel drop to enhance stability and support.
Credit: Arthur McMahon
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
Altra Experience Flow
33 mm
4 mm
1
2
3
4
5
Hoka Clifton 10
38 mm
7 mm
1
2
3
4
5
Hoka Transport
34 mm
7 mm
1
2
3
4
5
On Cloud 6 - Women's
29 mm
9 mm
1
2
3
4
5
Hoka Bondi SR
40 mm
7 mm
1
2
3
4
5
Kizik Athens
38 mm
15 mm
1
2
3
4
5
Ryka Devotion Plus 3
31 mm
10 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 difference between the cushion height at the heel and toe (marked by lines) is what determines the drop.
Credit: Matt Lighthart
Rocker Design
Many walking shoes incorporate rocker soles — curved geometries that help roll the foot forward with 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 the amount of rocker you prefer.
Rockers act to propel you forward in a way that can help you move to your next step, but can sometimes cause a feeling of instability.
Credit: Matt Lighthart
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 to prevent hotspots
Midfoot should feel snug but not tight
Toes need room to spread, especially during longer walks
About half an inch to an inch of space between the longest toe and the shoe end
Width should accommodate the foot without pressure points
Some options like the Experience Flow 2 have a wider toe box, which can allow your toes to splay out as you walk.
Credit: Becca Glades
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.
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 Hoka Transport is a great example of a shoe that can handle various surfaces thanks to its exposed lugs and Vibram outsole.
Credit: Arthur McMahon
However, note that softer rubbers typically wear faster than firmer compounds. On the other side of that spectrum, hard rubber soles are more durable but generally provide less grip, especially on slick surfaces.
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.
The composition of the outsole and its tread pattern are significant factors in each shoe's traction quality.
Credit: Arthur McMahon
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.
It's always important to try on a shoe to see what fits best. Luckily, online retailers know this, and most have return policies that allow you to try your shoes on and return them for an alternative if necessary.
Credit: Arthur McMahon
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
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.
—Becca Glades, Mallory Paige, Travis Reddinger, & Arthur McMahon
