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No one wants achy feet at the end of the day. The right pair of walking shoes can drastically improve your daily movement, whether it be fitness walks, errand runs, or long days at work.
We've logged hundreds of miles while testing the top walking shoes, and we've picked apart every detail of their design (we even cut them in half!) From long fitness walks to busy travel days and all-day-standing work sessions, we've put these shoes through their paces to find the best options for you.
The best walking shoe for most people is the Altra Experience Flow 3. We love how balanced they are, offering all-day comfort and support.
If you're looking for comfortable budget walking shoes, we love the Asics Gel-Contend 9. For under $100, you get a lightweight, comfortable, and supportive walking shoe that is great for warm weather.
Can require adjustment if you're unfamiliar with low-drop shoes
Built for roads and hard surfaces - traction isn't great on loose dirt
SPECIFICATIONS
Width Options
Regular
Measured Weight
6.82 oz
Measured Heel-to-Toe Drop
6 mm
Closure Type
Lace
Upper Material
Mesh
Right out of the box, the Altra Experience Flow 3 was ready to tackle both long and short walks. This shoe feels incredibly balanced, with enough cushion underfoot to relieve achy joints, but not too much to feel unstable. Our testers loved the foot-shaped toe box, which didn't squish any toes. Still, the heel cup is secure, and the laces can be cinched down for an athletic fit, preventing any slipping around within the shoe. The upper is breathable, flexible, and durable for miles of walking, and because it isn't overbuilt or bulky, it makes a great day-to-day shoe. We love how light and airy these feel. Our feet never overheated, and we almost felt like we weren't wearing anything.
The Experience Flow 3 isn't the shoe for those who need high arch support or a corrective pronation shoe. Instead, the support comes from the neutral design that allows your feet and natural balance to take control. If you have particularly weak feet, these can require a bit of adjustment. Most walking shoes have a large “drop” between the heel height and toe height (usually 8-12mm), while these are considered “low-drop” with just a few millimeters between the heel and toe. This is more like walking barefoot, and if you're not used to this, it can be an uncomfortable adjustment for your Achilles. Still, this can build up strength and balance over time, so we think it is worth it. All things considered, these are the most balanced shoes we have tested, and we wholeheartedly recommend them to anyone after a light and comfortable walking shoe for any distance.
The Altra Experience Flow 3 is well-balanced, and ready for miles of walking, or just a quick trip into town. The versatility of these shoes is tough to beat.
The Asics Gel-Contend 9 is a traditional-style sneaker with a lot to offer for less than $100. For the daily errands, dog walks, and mid-length walks, these are shockingly comfortable (with no break-in period!). The upper is soft, flexible, and accommodating to various foot shapes, yet we were still able to get a snug and secure fit when we wanted to pick up the pace. Plus, the mesh material was very breathable and a favorite for warm-weather walking. There is nothing overly aggressive about this shoe. The rocker is gentle, the cushioning isn't overdone, and they aren't bulky. That said, our stride felt natural and confident. These offer some of the best arch support in the lineup, even without an aftermarket insole.
Unlike the Altra Experience Flow 3, the Gel-Contend's drop between the heel and toe is larger at 9 mm (measured in our lab). This is going to feel more like a traditional athletic shoe, but it can cause achy toes after a very long walk. This is because the weight is distributed downwards towards the balls of your feet. This can be a dealbreaker for those who prioritize a more neutral stance, while others might not even notice. Still, we didn't notice this discomfort until we were a few miles in. If you are sticking to errand runs and medium-length walks, you should be okay. Due to the minimal rubberized traction underfoot, these are best suited for concrete and hard surfaces. If you find yourself primarily walking on uneven, dirt surfaces, the Hoka Transport 2 is a better choice. All in all, these impressed us, especially for the price. We think anyone ordering a different pair of walking shoes should order these alongside to compare. They are that good.
Designed specifically for women, the Ryka Devotion Plus 3 is one of the most comfortable and thoughtful shoes we have tested. During our testing, this shoe demonstrated why women-specific design matters. The anatomical fit features a wider forefoot and narrower heel, creating a secure yet comfortable walking experience. We particularly appreciated the strategic cushioning underfoot and around the ankle that prevented foot fatigue during long days of testing. The eight-piece rubber outsole provides reliable traction across various surfaces. Our lead tester, Mallory Paige, noted, “At first, I wasn't overly impressed by these shoes. However, after a few walks in them, I got the wow factor. The materials began to break in and provided me with the right support where I needed it most.”
After long-term testing, we have some reservations about durability. Though initially excellent, the arch support showed signs of compression after a few months of regular use. In our twist test, these shoes showed more flexibility than we'd like, implying less stability, and suggesting they might not be ideal for severe overpronators. If you're seeking more rigid support, check out the Brooks Ghost Max 2, which demonstrated superior structure in our testing. Drawbacks aside, the Devotion Plus 3 offers an excellent value for neutral walkers seeking a comfortable, women-specific design. We recommend these shoes for everyday fitness walking and urban exploration, particularly for those who prioritize anatomical fit and balanced cushioning over maximum support and longevity.
Vibram outsole has great traction on various surfaces
CONS
Bulky
Break-in period
SPECIFICATIONS
Width Options
Regular, wide
Measured Weight
8.85 oz
Measured Heel-to-Toe Drop
6 mm
Closure Type
Quick-toggle, lace
Upper Material
Cordura
The Hoka Transport 2 is a “do-it-all” shoe, and the one we choose every time we are headed on a walk outdoors. This is due to the superb traction on gravel, dirt, and wet concrete. The midsole is firm and steady, yet still offers plenty of cushion to keep feet happy and comfy for hours on end on uneven terrain or hard indoor surfaces. They are steady like a hiking shoe, but light enough to handle indoor walks as well. Those who need an ache-relieving work or travel shoe will appreciate the arch support and gentle rocker, which keeps you moving without compromising stand-still balance. Our feet were kept securely in place with the quick-lace system, which we also loved for easy on-and-off.
These shoes have a short break-in period, and our first walk in them was not pleasant. They squished our toes and felt way too stiff. But the second walk was a massive improvement. The upper and midsole began to loosen with each subsequent walk, and within five miles, these became one of the most comfortable and supportive walking shoes we have tested. This shoe is the most versatile option we have tested, capable of city-to-trail walks. We love the durable Cordura upper that increases longevity. These are shoes we can confidently keep wearing season after season, both indoors and out.
We tackled some of our longest walks in the On Cloud 6 with ease. Much of this is thanks to the thoughtful, supportive design. Upon slipping them on, they are held in place by the elastic lace system, which is snug, though not restrictive at all. In fact, the elastic laces keep the shoe from biting down over the top of the foot. This small but mighty feature also allows the shoes to be slid on and off quickly and almost hands-free. The Cloud 6 has moderate arch support, which kept our testers' feet happy during extensive walks. Additionally, the light upper allowed necessary air flow to keep our feet cool during warm days. The updated version is slightly wider than the last, and it feels more accommodating to various foot shapes. We like that these shoes are light, versatile, and easy to get on - all factors that contribute to their travel-friendly nature.
The new design has smaller pods than the last version, which trap fewer small pebbles. However, the large gaps between the pods are now the perfect size for larger rocks to get lodged. This happened a few times during our tests, so we tried to avoid gravel walking paths. For those seeking similar versatility but better performance on varied terrain, we recommend considering the Altra Experience Flow, which offers comparable comfort with superior traction across all surfaces. And, while we love the elastic laces, they take a small amount of time to break in. During our first walk, we noticed the tight laces over the top of the foot. However, by the end of the walk, the laces had stretched to be the perfect fit. Still, we love the On Cloud 6 and stand by its all-day comfort and support.
The Hoka Clifton 10 was a pleasant surprise. We found ourselves skeptical of this max cushion but quickly grew to love it. The 38 millimeters at the heel is pillow-like, yet retains its structural support. Step by step, we were gently propelled forward by the mild rocker and moderate seven millimeter drop. The transition was smooth, and our tester, Becca Glades, notes, “The shoe is easy to walk in thanks to the cushion and rocker. Yet, when I am standing still, I rest in a very balanced place within the shoe.” The Clifton doesn't sacrifice support or stability either. The wide base keeps you from rolling an ankle, even with a large stack. Plus, a secure lacing system is in place to keep your foot in place. Our team walked miles in these shoes, and everyone was pleased with their breathable and lightweight upper. Additionally, the Clifton is among the lightest shoes we tested, which is remarkable considering how much material they have underfoot.
These shoes can handle just about any walk you plan on taking, from sport walking to strolling around town. However, we were less secure in our footing on large gravel paths. The wide base and less flexible outsole make it hard to keep the ankles straight on gravel. That said, all other surfaces we walked on posed no problems. Our tester even stepped on wet tile and didn't encounter any slippage. If you walk on more rugged paths, the Hoka Transport has a much more capable outsole. We also have minor concerns about the lightweight Jacquard knit upper. While it remained structurally sound during our tests, the fabric is so lightweight that it raises concerns for snagging on sticks or brush. The Hoka Bondi SR offers a leather upper that is among the toughest we have seen, but they aren't as plush as the Clifton. All things considered, if you are after a max cushioned shoe, you can't go wrong with the pillow-like Clifton 10.
Very large heel-to-toe drop makes them uncomfortable during longer walks
Fit isn't great for narrow or wide feet
SPECIFICATIONS
Width Options
Regular, wide
Measured Weight
9.29 oz
Measured Heel-to-Toe Drop
15 mm
Closure Type
Lace
Upper Material
Mesh
The Kizik Athens 2 is the only shoe in our lineup that is truly hands-free. Anyone with limited mobility will appreciate this, as there is no need to bend down to lace up your shoe, aside from the initial wear. This is thanks to the Cage design heel, which snaps into place when you slide your foot in. We were concerned this would be uncomfortable or cause hot spots, but we are pleased to say it doesn't at all. Instead, it offers more stability in the heel. You only need to lace them up once to get an initial fit, then you can throw them on and off as you please without losing that secure feel. Underfoot, the shoes are cushioned, yet stable. They have decent bend at the toe but are more rigid through the forefoot, meaning they are a good option for stable standing and day-to-day wear.
We didn't, however, love them for long walks over two to three miles. The heel padding is much higher than the toe padding (approximately 15 mm drop), which distributes a lot of weight on the balls of the feet. This isn't noticeable for shorter duration wears, but it causes aches on longer walks. That said, we don't recommend them for fitness walking, but they are a solid choice for daily wear and shorter dog walks. Because of their quick on-and-off nature, they are also great for airport security lines. The fit of these shoes is somewhat specific. The toe box tapers early, which isn't ideal for wide feet (they also available in wide). Meanwhile, the midfoot is slightly wider than others, which isn't ideal for narrow feet. Those with average-volume feet will have the best fit in these, and we were able to let out enough room for swelling feet. We still think these are a good choice, especially if you're after hands-free entry.
The New Balance 574 Core shoes prove that heritage style doesn't have to mean compromised performance. These shoes impressed us with their capable traction across multiple surfaces, with an exceptional performance on gravel, where many lifestyle sneakers fail completely. The firm-yet-supportive platform delivered surprising all-day comfort, while the bombproof construction featuring real suede and quality rubber promises years of reliable wear. “I kept expecting my feet to protest after hours of walking in what looked like fashion sneakers,” lead tester Mallory Paige noted during testing, “but the 574 Core's stable platform and decent arch support kept me comfortable from morning errands through evening outings.” The classic design seamlessly transitions between activities without screaming “athletic shoe,” making them ideal for walkers who refuse to sacrifice style for function.
However, the 574 Core isn't without limitations. The narrow toe box proved problematic for testers with wider feet, and the restricted breathability from the suede upper can leave feet feeling warm during extended summer walks. Those seeking maximum cushioning might find the firm ride less forgiving than plush options like the Hoka Clifton 10, which offers superior padding while maintaining excellent support. Similarly, walkers prioritizing hands-free convenience should consider the Kizik Athens, which delivers comparable urban style with innovative slip-on technology that makes getting out the door effortless.
During our comprehensive testing of women's walking shoes, the Skechers GO WALK Joy emerged as a comfortable and budget-friendly option great for everyday wear. We logged 10,000 steps right out of the box and found these shoes required no break-in period. The upper, while initially feeling somewhat stiff, quickly adapted to provide a comfortable fit without any pressure points. These are among the lightest walking shoes we tested at 5.16 ounces per shoe, and they feel airy. Their low weight and breathable mesh prevent sweaty feet on longer walks. One of our testers noted, “These shoes feel surprisingly lightweight on my feet, and the cushion underfoot feels great.” In our traction tests, the bubbly outsole performed admirably on tile and concrete. While they don't have the most robust arch support, we found the natural toe bend and rigidity through the midfoot to be supportive enough for all-day wear. These shoes aren't necessarily a hands-free design like the Kizik Athens, but our team was able to easily slip them on and off after they broke in.
Unfortunately, these shoes have some limitations. Though convenient, the slip-on design means you can't adjust the fit for varying foot shapes or preferences. With only one width option, they may not accommodate all foot shapes and sizes. We also noticed that the arch support, while adequate for short walks, might not be ideal for those needing more substantial support for extended periods. Overall, we find the GO WALK Joy to be an excellent value proposition for casual walkers searching for a comfortable, lightweight shoe for daily errands and moderate activity. Their combination of immediate comfort, reliable traction, and accessible price point makes this shoe one of our favorites.
If you like the style, the Skechers Go Walk will deliver great comfort, decent stability, and solid traction for a very reasonable price. Credit: Natalie Kafader
The Hoka Bondi SR is our pick for those needing a slip-resistant shoe. If you work in the service or healthcare industries, these are a solid choice, especially if you find yourself upright for most of your shift. The magic is in the very supportive midsole. While stiff, it is relieving for hours of standing. Our tester, Becca Glades, spent years working in hospitals as a respiratory therapist, where she would frequently rack up miles of walking in a single shift. She would gladly throw these on as a work shoe, especially considering the exterior that resists fluids and wipes clean.
Out of the box, these shoes are stiff. With time, they loosen up, but it takes a few walks. Additionally, these aren't our choice for outdoor walking. Due to the wide, rigid base, they have almost no stability on gravel and rocks. On concrete, they are fine, but we think you'd be better off with another choice if you walk outdoors, like the Hoka Transport. Likewise, because of the leather upper, they aren't as breathable. Again, making them a choice for indoor use. Still, we think these are a great choice for workers needing relief from extended standing and slip-resistant security.
The Bondi SR is a great option for shift workers who need a slip-free outsole. Credit: Becca Glades
Product Comparison Table
We walked and walked and walked to see how these shoes did with extended use. Credit: Becca Glades
How We Tested
Here at GearLab, we take hands-on (or should we say "feet on") testing very seriously. We scour the market, searching for the most intriguing walking shoes. Then, we order the shoes paying full price, just like you would. No freebies for us!
Then, we get to work. Our team has walked hundreds of miles testing these shoes, noting key features like comfort, stability, support, traction, and much more. We look into every detail of these shoes, even cutting them in half in our lab. We measure heel-to-toe drop, stack height, width, and more. This allows us to provide standardized, comparable data across all models. Our scoring comes from real-life use, with our judges offering up their recommendations.
Our testing metrics focus on five key metrics that we've found most important for daily walking shoes:
Comfort (30% of overall score weighting)
Support (25% weighting)
Durability (20% weighting)
Traction (15% weighting)
Weight (10% weighting)
We cut apart each walking shoe and hand-measure all features in our dedicated testing lab to ensure accurate data. Credit: Natalie Kafader
Why Trust GearLab
Our walking shoe testing team has technical expertise and real-world experience.
Becca Glades, editor and tester, spent many years as a critical care Respiratory Therapist in major Denver hospitals. In a single shift, she would walk miles, and was often upright for most of the shift. Over the years, she set out on a quest to find the best shoe for extended walking and standing, making her the perfect tester for this review. Now that she's working from home, Becca makes a point of taking a morning walk with her dogs, regardless of the weather. Her neighborhood features gravel, concrete, and dirt paths, which she tests every shoe in this review on.
Mallory Paige brings nearly a decade of experience in gear testing and review writing, along with a commitment to logging at least 5,000 steps daily in various conditions, even when she's not testing shoes. Her Bachelor of Science degree from Colorado State University has given her the skills to analyze large data sets, build scientific comparison studies, and think objectively.
We test every shoe in the field and the lab, even cutting them in half to get precise measurements.
Analysis and Test Results
After months of testing, clear performance patterns emerged among our test shoes. The best shoes demonstrated exceptional comfort and stability. Let's dive into how each shoe performed across our test metrics.
Worse Value
Better Value
What's the Best Value?
Value in walking shoes isn't just about finding the lowest price - it's about finding the right balance of performance and durability for your budget.
The Asics Gel-Contend 9 is an easy choice for under $100. It is very light, athletic, and offers excellent arch support. For most walks, its value can't be beat.
The Skechers GO WALK Joy emerged as one of our favorites, offering impressive comfort and easy slip-on convenience at less than half the price of other models. During our 10,000-step test, it provided reliable comfort and adequate support, though it doesn't match the premium cushioning of higher-priced options.
The Ryka Devotion Plus 3 is another excellent value, and is particularly impressive given its women-specific design features. It offers good arch support and stability at a reasonable price point.
It's important to consider the comfort of a shoe and how often it'll be on your foot. If you are searching for a daily shoe or even a work shoe, shelling out a little extra for the best-fitting shoe can make a huge difference in your day. Unhappy feet are no fun to deal with. Still, value choices like these can be the perfect choice, as long as they keep your feet comfortable and supported.
The Skechers GO WALK Joy are a budget-friendly choice, that did well across categories in our tests. Credit: Mallory Paige
Comfort
Through our extensive walking tests, we found that comfort comes down to three key factors: cushioning level, fit precision, and upper design.
Getting the Right Fit
There is no one-size-fits-all for how comfortable a shoe is. You've likely tried on a shoe and immediately threw it off because it wasn't for you. We get it. We have been there, which is why our recommendations are based on a variety of foot shapes. However, the best way for you to ensure the comfort of your shoe is to try them on. We suggest ordering a few pairs of shoes that you are interested in from a company with a generous return policy. Try them on and return what doesn't work.
The Altra Experience Flow 3 offers out-of-the-box comfort that is hard to beat. The moderately cushioned midsole absorbs impact without feeling bulky, especially on hard surfaces like concrete and tile. The foot-shaped toe box meant none of our toes were restricted too. Plus, the upper is breathable enough for the summer months.
This is the foot-shaped toe box on the Altra, which is one of the reasons we love it so much. None of our toes are pushes in or squished. Credit: Becca Glades
The Hoka Clifton 10 feels like a pillow under your feet. At first, we were a little skeptical of all this cushion, but it quickly grew on our team. The shoe is cushioned in all the right places and is an easy choice for long, strenuous walks. The upper is also comfortable, non-restrictive, and breathable. However, if you aren't used to max-cushion, they can take a few walks to get used to.
We went on a lot of walks in the Clifton 10 and were impressed by their springy, yet cushioned comfort. Credit: Becca Glades
The Hoka Transport 2 has a different approach to comfort compared to the Clifton 10. While it still has plenty of stack under the foot, it isn't plush like the Clifton. It is still very comfortable though. It does take a walk or two to break in, but once it does, it is comfy for all-day wear. We love that our feet don't ache at the end of the day after wearing these.
Shoe ExteriorShoe Interior
The Hoka Transport 2 has plenty of cushion underfoot, though less than the outside might suggest. It is still very comfortable for extensive walks, much of this is thanks to the support.
The On Cloud 6 impressed us with its more minimalist approach to comfort. While it offers less overall cushioning than the Hoka, its strategically placed “cloud pods” provide excellent pressure distribution.
The On Cloud 6 is supportive and comfortable with its pod-like design and elastic laces. Credit: Becca Glades
Some shoes required virtually no break-in period - the Skechers GO WALK Joy, New Balance 574 Core, and Asics Gel-Contend 9 were comfortable right out of the box. Others, like the Dansko Professional, needed several days of wear before reaching peak comfort.
The Gel-Contend is comfortable right out of the box, and gets even better within a few walks. Credit: Becca Glades
The Ryka Devotion Plus 3 offers a women-specific fit that our testers found particularly comfortable, with a narrower heel and more room in the forefoot.
We also discovered that some shoes felt comfortable in the beginning, but started to show their limitations during longer walks. The Feethit Slip On, while comfortable for short periods, left our feet feeling fatigued after several hours of wear due to its minimal cushioning.
The Feethit doesn't have much padding underfoot, leaving us fatigued after hours of wear. Credit: Mallory Paige
Hot feet are never fun, so we considered breathability when testing for comfort, too. We performed vapor tests to get a visual on how breathable the shoes were. Unsurprisingly, those with mesh uppers were far more breathable compared to options like the leather Dansko. We were impressed by the Asics Gel-Contend 9 and Altra Experience Flow 2 when it came to breathability, as well as the earth-friendly eucalyptus fiber of the Allbirds Tree Runners.
The Gel-Contend 9 dumped heat during our walks, keeping our feet nice and cool. Credit: Matt Lighthart
Support
We assess support through three key tests: the twist test for torsional rigidity, the bend test for appropriate flexion points, and real-world stability evaluations on various surfaces where we deliberately test ankle roll resistance. Shoes like the Hoka Transport that resist twisting motion provide better stability while maintaining enough flexibility for natural movement.
The On Cloud 6 bends at the toe but feels stable throughout, and doesn't collapse through the arch. One of our testers noted, “My ankles felt stable as I walked in these, and I had no concerns about rolling an ankle.” Additionally, they didn't create any hot spots or pressure points.
The On Cloud 6 has bend through the toe but is stiff through the heel and arch. Credit: Becca Glades
We spent time walking on uneven surfaces, and put ourselves through some deliberate ankle roll attempts (done carefully and safely), while noting how effectively each shoe maintains proper foot alignment and prevents excessive motion. Shoes like the Altra Experience Flow feature wider bases and structured uppers that provide greater stability in these situations. Though it has plenty of cushion, it features a wide base and minimal heel-to-toe drop, lending to its stable feel.
The Altra's wide base offers stability that ultra-cushioned shoes lack. Plus, the toe box allows for a natural splay of the toes that increases stability. Credit: Becca Glades
We were also impressed by the Asics Gel-Contend 9 and Hoka Transport 2 for stability, though both take a very different approach. The Gel-Contend has much more flexibility throughout the shoe, but offers excellent arch support. We were able to get a secure fit and a locked-in heel. Meanwhile, the Transport is far more rigid throughout, which can be better for longer-term standing and walking. It still bends well at the toe and offers a secure fit throughout the foot.
Here we are comparing the stiffness of the Gel-Contend 9 and the Hoka Transport 2. They take different approaches to rigidity, which can be both a personal preference and a walking style pro and con.
The New Balance 574 Core also proved incredibly stable with a lower platform and very sturdy build that showed minimal bending during our twist and bend tests. The Dansko Professional is known for its superb arch support, which we experienced during testing. Once used to the heel height, these can be a stable choice indoors.
Support Measurements
Heel Stack
Heel-to-Toe Drop
Arch Support
Dansko Professional
51 mm
23 mm
1
2
3
4
5
Hoka Bondi SR
41 mm
6 mm
1
2
3
4
5
New Balance Fresh Foam x 1080 v14
39 mm
5 mm
1
2
3
4
5
Hoka Clifton 10
38 mm
7 mm
1
2
3
4
5
Kizik Athens 2
37 mm
15 mm
1
2
3
4
5
Brooks Ghost Max 3
37 mm
6 mm
1
2
3
4
5
New Balance 574 Core
36 mm
14 mm
1
2
3
4
5
Hoka Transport 2
33 mm
6 mm
1
2
3
4
5
Allbirds Tree Runners
33 mm
14 mm
1
2
3
4
5
Under Armour Charged+ Assert 11
33 mm
8 mm
1
2
3
4
5
New Balance 877 V1
32 mm
14 mm
1
2
3
4
5
Nike Motiva
32 mm
9 mm
1
2
3
4
5
Altra Experience Flow 3
31 mm
6 mm
1
2
3
4
5
Asics Gel-Contend 9
31 mm
9 mm
1
2
3
4
5
Ryka Devotion Plus 3
31 mm
10 mm
1
2
3
4
5
Skechers GO WALK Joy
29 mm
9 mm
1
2
3
4
5
On Cloud 6
29 mm
9 mm
1
2
3
4
5
Feethit Slip On
24 mm
7 mm
1
2
3
4
5
Adidas Cloudfoam Pure 2.0
22 mm
8 mm
1
2
3
4
5
Heel Stack Height and Cushioning
Stack height is the amount of material underneath the heel. While a higher stack can translate to more cushion and impact protection, it can also cause instability when too high. There is significant variation in stack height across our test group, and each variety has its pros and cons.
The Dansko Professional features the highest stack height at 51 millimeters in the heel. This provided excellent shock absorption but came at the cost of added weight and a somewhat clunky feel. Hoka sneakers are known for their thick, plush midsoles, which we see in the Bondi SR and Clifton 10, boasting 41 millimeters and 38 millimeters, respectively. The Brooks Ghost Max 3 and New Balance Fresh Foam X 1080 v13 both feature generous stack heights at 37 millimeters. During our 10,000-step test, these shoes excelled at absorbing impact on concrete surfaces. However, we found that higher stack heights generally corresponded with reduced stability, particularly during lateral movements. The Nike Motiva managed to overcome this tendency somewhat through its wider base design, while still featuring a 32-millimeter heel stack.
The Hoka Transport and On Cloud 6 hit what we consider the sweet spot for most users. With heel stack heights of 34 and 29 millimeters, respectively, these shoes provided ample cushioning for long walks while maintaining good stability and ground feel. The Altra Experience Flow 2 particularly impressed us in this category, offering excellent protection while preserving proprioception through its balanced design, with a 30-millimeter heel stack.
The Adidas Cloudfoam Pure 2.0 and Feethit Slip On represent the minimalist approach at 22 millimeters and 24 millimeters, respectively. While these shoes felt more nimble and lightweight during testing, our testers noticed worse foot fatigue during longer walks on hard surfaces. However, they proved ideal for indoor use and shorter walking sessions.
The Adidas Cloudfoam Pure 2.0 (first) has a minimal heel stack height, while the Dankso Professional (second) has a large height.
Heel-to-Toe Drop
Heel-to-toe drop represents the stack height difference between the heel and toe. The drop affects how your foot transitions through each step and can significantly impact comfort and performance.
The Nike Motiva and Ryka Devotion Plus 3 feature drops of nine millimeters and 10 millimeters, respectively. The On Cloud 6 also has a 9 millimeter drop, which has increased since the previous version of this shoe. During testing, we found these shoes encouraged a heel-strike pattern and provided good forward momentum. However, some testers noted that the higher drop could feel less natural during longer walks.
The Hoka Transport and Clifton 10 utilize moderate drops of seven millimeters. This range proved most versatile in our testing, accommodating various walking styles while maintaining natural biomechanics. The Brooks Ghost Max, with its eight-millimeter drop, sits at the upper end of this range but manages to feel balanced thanks to its rocker design.
The Altra Experience Flow 2 stands out with its four-millimeter drop, staying true to the brand's natural foot movement philosophy. During testing, this lower drop promoted a midfoot strike pattern and was particularly comfortable for those already accustomed to minimalist footwear.
Shoe ExteriorShoe Interior
Shown here is the On Cloud 6 cut in half. Between the heel and toe stack height measurement, there are 9 millimeters.
Some walking shoes often incorporate rocker soles to assist with forward momentum. The Nike Motiva features the most pronounced rocker design, with the apex being much more centered than others. During our walking tests, this translated to noticeably easier forward motion but required some adaptation time for most users.
The Nike Motiva has a very pronounced rocker design. Credit: Mallory Paige
The Brooks Ghost Max and Hoka Transport implement more subtle rocker designs, with a more traditional curvature. We found this middle-ground approach provided smooth transitions without feeling overly aggressive or artificial. The Skechers GO WALK Joy and Feethit Slip On utilize minimal rocker designs. While this resulted in a more natural ground feel, these shoes required more effort during toe-off, particularly during longer walks.
Comparing the rocker designs, it's easy to see which have the highest rocker. Credit: Natalie Kafader
Durability
A shoe that breaks down after a few miles isn't a good walking shoe. In fact, it can cause strain and injury if continued to be used. One that can keep up with your activity and not cost a fortune to replace is ideal. After months of rigorous testing and analyzing long-term user feedback, we gained valuable insights into how these walking shoes hold up under regular use.
The Dankso Professional left us with no question about their longevity. The upper is constructed from high-quality leather that only occasionally shows scuffs, and keeping them clean is fairly simple. Just wipe them with a soft, damp cloth. Dankso also recommends maintaining them with a leather conditioner.
The high-quality materials used for the Dansko Professional are some of the most durable in our lineup. Credit: Natalie Kafader
The Bondi SR also has a leather upper that is very durable, and we were pleased to see how well it wiped clean. These shoes are ideal for professionals thanks to their heavy-duty construction. Even well into our testing, they showed no significant signs of wear.
The Hoka Bondi SR easily wipes clean thanks to its leather upper. Credit: Becca Glades
The Hoka Transport 2 has a Cordura upper that holds up to wear and tear. We tested the white variation of this shoe and were happy to see how well dirt was brushed off too. The Vibram outsole is also much more durable than light rubber and foam outsoles seen on other walking shoes.
The Cordura upper on the Transport 2 is very durable and scrape resistant. It even brushed off dirt and debris, despite being a light color. Credit: Becca Glades
In contrast, the Feethit Slip On's basic mesh upper showed early signs of strain at stress points, particularly around the toe box. The Adidas Cloudfoam Pure 2.0's knit upper, while comfortable, exhibited some stretching and shape loss after prolonged use.
The minimal cushioning in the Adidas Cloudfoam isn't the most durable with extended wear. Credit: Natalie Kafader
The Altra Experience Flow 3 and Brooks Ghost Max 3 are also made from durable synthetic materials. Neither had no noticeable weak spots or signs of concern after months of testing. Our tester, Mallory Paige, noted, “The engineered mesh upper feels like it will last a very long time and resist tearing.”
The engineered mesh upper on the Altra Experience Flow 3 held up well during testing. Credit: Becca Glades
The Brooks Ghost Max has reinforced eyelets, and the mesh upper has a rubberized treatment that prevents premature wear. Even after months of wear, the Ghost Max 2 didn't show any wrinkles in the foam midsole. And the well-made New Balance 574 Core showed no signs of wear after months of testing.
Even with a very durable upper, the Brooks Ghost Max 3 is super breathable. Credit: Matt Lighthart
Traction
A walking shoe's ability to maintain grip across various surfaces can make the difference between a confident stride and an uncertain step. Walking over multiple surfaces, we evaluated each shoe's traction capabilities in both dry and wet conditions, paying particular attention to performance in common walking environments.
The Hoka Transport 2 is by far the best choice for walkers who venture outdoors on mixed surfaces. The outsole is much like a light hiking shoe with exposed lugs and a Vibram material. Still, they aren't overly bulky to be clunky on concrete or tile. None comes close to the versatility of this shoe for varied surfaces, so if you're primarily walking outdoors, this is the shoe to consider.
The Transport 2 is the shoe you want if you walk both indoors and out. Credit: Becca Glades
Many walking shoes can handle light dirt and gravel paths, even if they aren't intended for it. However, most are built for walking on concrete and hard indoor flooring.
The New Balance 574 Core showed exemplary gravel performance with its more aggressive lug pattern. Conversely, the On Cloud 6's pod design, while excellent on hard surfaces, tended to collect stones in its gaps during gravel walking tests.
The New Balance 574 Core is another shoe that does well on various surfaces thanks to its lug pattern. Credit: Mallory Paige
The Kizik Athens 2 has a rubberized bottom that isn't necessarily slip-resistant, but grips onto tile and hard surfaces well. It is also good on light dirt and gravel paths.
The Kizik Athens rubber bottom offers versatility on multiple surfaces.
The Ryka Devotion Plus 3 emerged as a standout performer for indoor surfaces. Its specialized rubber compound offered excellent grip on smooth tile floors without leaving marks or creating the squeaking noise we experienced with some other shoes.
The Skechers GO WALK Joy also impressed us on indoor surfaces, providing reliable traction while remaining easy to pivot and adjust direction. Likewise, the New Balance 877 V1 excels on indoor and concrete surfaces thanks to its grippy outsole.
The rubber compound and lug pattern make a big difference in how a shoe performs during our traction test. Credit: Natalie Kafader
The On Cloud 6's distinctive pod design also performed well on concrete, though it was slightly less effective in wet conditions.
The On Cloud 6 has great grip on concrete and hard surfaces. Credit: Becca Glades
Our wet-condition testing revealed significant differences in traction performance. The Hoka Bondi SR has a slip-resistant outsole, which is very grippy on hard surfaces and even wet tile.
The Bondi SR utilizes a slip-resistant bottom to keep you upright, even on a slick, wet floor. Credit: Becca Glades
However, some models struggled significantly when wet. The Feethit Slip On's grip decreased notably on wet surfaces, particularly on smooth tile. The Adidas Cloudfoam Pure 2.0 also showed reduced effectiveness in wet conditions, requiring more careful foot placement to maintain stability.
The Feethit Slip On wasn't the best in terms of traction, especially on wet floors. Credit: Mallory Paige
Weight
While weight might not be the first factor people consider when choosing walking shoes, it can significantly impact comfort during long walks and all-day wear. Throughout our testing process, we carefully weighed each shoe and evaluated how its weight affected performance across different walking scenarios.
We found that some lighter shoes caused less fatigue. The Skechers Go Walk Joy were one of the most comfortable, and they weigh just 5.2 ounces each (US 6.5). However, the relationship wasn't entirely linear.
The Hoka Transport 2, despite being 8.9 ounces per shoe, received high comfort scores thanks to its efficient weight distribution and cushioning system. Conversely, the lightweight Feethit Slip On, Allbirds Tree Runners, and Adidas Cloudfoam caused more fatigue on long walks than expected due to their minimal cushioning.
The Allbirds Tree Runners were very light, but not the most comfortable for long walks. Credit: Mallory Paige
We also noticed that weight location matters as much as total weight. The On Cloud 6 exemplified efficient weight distribution, with most of its mass centered in the midsole, where it aided energy return rather than creating dead weight.
In contrast, much of the weight of the Dansko Professional is concentrated in the outsole, which requires more energy to move through each step. Though for long days standing on your feet, the Dansko is still supremely comfortable, and the 14.8 ounces per shoe could be worth the weight.
The Dansko Professional is among the heaviest walking shoes we've tested. Credit: Natalie Kafader
Lighter shoes are often better ventilated, with the Skechers GO WALK Joy and Altra Experience Flow 3 providing excellent breathability. Heavier shoes typically incorporate more materials and can run warmer during extended use, though some, like the Brooks Ghost Max 3, manage good ventilation despite their higher weight.
Conclusion
When selecting your next pair of walking shoes, consider your primary use case and typical walking environment. If you frequently walk on concrete or hard surfaces, prioritize cushioning and impact absorption. For those covering longer distances, weight and breathability become more crucial factors. Budget-conscious buyers should consider both initial cost and expected lifespan - sometimes spending more initially can prove more economical over time.
