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A lot of men do way more walking than they realize. And although walking is great, we all have a responsibility to ensure that we optimize our health and comfort levels while we get around.
Shoes for walking and running are often designed quite differently. A shoe that may be perfect for running will be uncomfortable and may even give you blisters and sores if you walk extensively.
One crucial thing to do, if you walk a lot, is to get an excellent pair of walking shoes.
But to select a pair of men’s walking shoes that is the best fit for you, there are some things that you need to know about choosing the best walking shoes for men.
Our Picks for the Best Walking Shoes for Men
Don’t have time to read the entire review? Then check out our picks for each of the five major categories.
How to Choose the Best Men’s Walking Shoes
The design of your walking shoes should be more than a fashion statement. When you are purchasing a pair of walking shoes, there are some characteristics in which you should pay close attention.
Here are some of the things you should look for:
Good walking shoes should be relatively lightweight!
Walking in heavy shoes can put unnecessary stress and strain on your feet. If you are doing a whole lot of walking, heavy shoes will tire your feet quickly.
The last thing you want is a pair of walking shoes that are way too heavy for you. Before you purchase those walking shoes, make sure you are comfortable with their weight.
Excellent shock absorption is a critical quality for walking shoes.
Some shoes will absorb more shock than others. If you are in a store, you may want to jump up and down in those new shoes to see how it feels when you land on the floor. The more shock the shoes absorb, the better it will be for walking.
Always think about the shape of your feet when selecting a pair of walking shoes.
Even though you may wear a size 9, your feet may have an entirely different shape from another who wears the same size. If your shoes are too narrow, too wide, too long or too short, it will be uncomfortable to walk in.
Don’t forget about the shape of your sole. Select walking shoes that are suited to your arch type whether it is flat, neutral-arched or high arched.
Consider the flexibility and support of the shoes.
Your walking shoe should bend quite easily to mimic the flexibility of your feet while you walk and you should be able to feel some resistance as you twist the shoe.
You also want to make sure that the shoes are cushioned where it matters the most. Rather than having a lot of cushioning at the heel, look for it under the ball of the foot.
When you are purchasing a pair of walking shoes, there are some characteristics you should pay close attention.
Other tips you may need regarding men’s walking shoes:
In addition to those characteristics, there are other things you need to know.
Wear socks while fitting your shoes.
Shop for shoes later in the day when your feet are likely to be swollen because you have been walking.
Try both shoes since one of your feet may be larger than the other.
Walk in the shoes before you buy them.
Wear your new shoes around the house for a few days to ensure that they fit well.
9 Best Walking Shoes for Men
Below we have the top nine men’s shoes, along with what makes each shoe special. I pick a “best” choice in the end, but that choice is really arbitrary.
Each one of these shoes are high quality and good for its own reasons. Discover what you want from your shoes and pick the shoe that is right for you!
1. Best Overall: Skechers Men’s Afterburn Memory-Foam Lace-Up Sneaker
Having been around for almost three decades, Skechers have made a name for themselves in the casual-comfort sneakers category. Known primarily for an uncompromising position on comfort over all else, the Skechers Men’s Afterburn Memory-Foam Lace-Up Sneaker are the ideal pair of shoes for men who spend a lot of time on their feet.
The upper is a combination of nubuck leather and robust synthetic overlays. This combination provides secure attachment points for the laces that won’t break down and stretch out.
The sides and back are lined with a breathable mesh fabric. Rather than enclosing the sneakers entirely, this mesh allows air to flow freely through the shoe and helps your feet stay cool.
The design is modern but not overly fashionable. To some, they may seem a little drab, but this is in line with the Skechers dogma of comfort over form. If you need a great pair of shoes for work, this is the type of shoe you probably want.
When it comes to comfort, there are few alternatives that match these sneakers. They’re lined with a soft fabric lining and have full-length memory foam insoles. The soles are flexible and provide excellent traction. Even the standard size is remarkably wide and won’t squeeze your feet.
And if all that wasn’t enough, they accomplish all this while weighing in at just over nine ounces. These are easily our choice for the best men’s walking shoes.
PROS
Outstanding comfort thanks to a wide build soft fabric lining
Full-length memory foam insoles
Laces are the correct size to avoid the need for double tying or looping
Soft and flexible rubber soles prevent uncomfortable pressure points
Synthetic overlays protect toes and heels
CONS
Not ideal for heavy-duty use, such as industrial settings
Somewhat sterile design
2. Best Walking Shoe for Traveling: Men’s Wool Runners
allbirds Men’s Wool Runners
It’s an axiom of traveling that you need to wear comfortable shoes. Nothing makes a trip more miserable than steamy and constrictive shoes. That’s where the Men’s Wool Runners from Allbirds shine. They have a soft and durable wool upper that hardly feels like wearing shoes at all.
The upper is made of Merino wool. Merino sheep have softer and thinner wool than most other breeds of domestic sheep. This makes their wool especially comfortable and pleasant on the skin. It also helps regulate temperature better than standard wool because the thinner fibers allow more airflow.
In addition to the ethically sourced Merino wool upper, the midsole is made out of sugarcane fibers. You read that right. SweetFoam is the world’s first carbon-negative EVA foam and it’s made using sugarcane sourced from Brazil.
The result is a sole that’s just as comfortable as a typical walking shoe but much more eco-friendly. The foam is emulsified with castor bean oil instead of petroleum, making it even more environmentally responsible.
Being environmentally friendly is all well and good. But how do the shoes perform?
Much better than most in their category. They’re light enough to be worn on long trips but durable enough to get years of use out of them.
While they’re outstanding as shoes for traveling, these were actually designed to be running shoes. Runners will really enjoy them as they’re machine washable and exceedingly versatile. The upper conforms to your foot perfectly and the soles are highly malleable.
PROS
Super lightweight and comfortable, almost feel like wearing socks
They’re machine washable, which is a big plus after long trips and runs
They’re completely carbon neutral and made using sustainably sourced materials
Merino wool keeps your feet cool in the summer and war in the cooler months
Removable insole can be replaced
CONS
They tend to run a little small, so if you shop true-to-size, consider going half a size larger when buying these
Not a good choice for people with wool allergies
3. Best Value for the Money: Skechers Men’s Go Max-Athletic Air Mesh Slip on Walking Shoe
Skechers Men’s Go Max-Athletic Air Mesh Slip On Walking Shoe Sneaker
If you were to design a shoe with every characteristic optimized for walking, you’d end up with something very close to the Skechers Men’s Go Max-Athletic Air Mesh Slip on Walking Shoe. They’re designed to provide optimum comfort and cushioning while walking.
The mesh upper is lightweight and breathable. It’s a fully synthetic material that allows airflow while keeping your foot snug and secure.
They feature a slip-on design which makes them very easy to put on quickly. You’ll be ready for walks in seconds and the high-rebound sole provides springy comfort and some energy return while walking.
The soles are made of Skechers’ proprietary 5GEN injection-molded compound. It has some of the characteristics of memory foam while still absorbing impacts admirably. They’re lightweight, flexible, and comfortable.
While they’re not overly exciting in terms of design, these shoes do have a minimalist charm to them. Their lack of shoelaces and single-color style make them appropriate in casual to semi-casual settings.
Skechers Go Walks also have a super-wide toe box that lets your toes rest comfortably without squeezing them. Moreover, the heel has extra padding to reduce the impact of heel strikes that make it easier to transition into your gait.
PROS
Convenient slip-on design makes them easy to put on
Thick injection-molded soles provide cushioning, comfort, and feedback response
Super lightweight mesh upper is breathable and comfortable
Extra-wide toe box fits even the broadest feet
Extra padding in the heel reduces the impact on heel strikes
CONS
The insole can’t be removed, you can only add an additional insole
Design is a little monotone
4. Best High-End Shoe: Brooks Addiction Walker 2
Brooks Addiction Walker 2
There’s no reason not to bring a sense of style and elegance on your walks – and the Brooks Addiction Walker 2 are a great way to do that.
These sneakers are the epitome of high-quality construction and design while still retaining all the characteristics that make a great walking shoe.
There’s not a whole lot of new ground being broken on these sneakers but what they lack in innovation they make up for in build quality. They have a full-leather upper that provides supple comfort, giving the shoes a sense of urbane finesse.
The Addiction Walker 2 features, a traditional sneaker design. However, the inside is lined with a breathable synthetic mesh lining. Although they don’t provide much airflow from the side panels, the mesh prevents your feet from getting swampy.
It comes with a comfortable, cushioned insole that gives cushioning and support. Plus, the insole is conveniently removable if you want to replace it for a custom orthopedic insert.
These shoes also feature Brooks’ Progressive Diagonal Rollbar. This tri-density midsole is designed to give a smooth transition from midstance to propulsion. All that fancy language means that you’ll feel the shoe push off a little as you’re walking, reducing fatigue significantly.
PROS
Stylish and elegant design with full-leather uppers
Breathable synthetic mesh lining inside the shoe makes it breathable
Slip-resistant outsole
CONS
Among the most expensive options available for walking shoes
Few color options are available
5. Best for Wide Feet: New Balance Men’s MW840v2 Walking Shoe
The New Balance Men’s MW840v2 Walking Shoe is a remarkable walking shoe that is made of real leather and comfortable rubber outsole. It features a lace-up design and 3 different color palettes so you can select the colors that you prefer.
Of course, these shoes offer cushioning and support as you move in them due to their well thought out design and build. One fantastic feature that stands out with these shoes is their sturdiness.
The sturdiness is a vital quality in a walking shoe as you want shoes that are flexible but sturdy enough to offer great support while you walk. They also come with a comfortable, but removable insert for foot ease and comfort.
The biggest advantage of these shoes are for those of us with wide feet. The New Balance MW840v2 walking shoe comes in a variety of widths as well as lengths making it easy for those of us with wide feet to find our perfect shoe match.
Each shoe has a normal version, a wide version and and extra wide version. This can also make them the top choice as a running shoe for men wide feet.
These shoes are great for just about any terrain, except possibly extreme hiking over extremely rugged terrain where you will probably want a dedicated high topped hiking boot and not just a walking shoe.
PROS
The shoes should be very comfortable when worn providing that you have your perfect fit.
These shoes are great for walking on concrete floors as they provide a lot of shock absorbance.
You can easily remove the insoles for washing or replacement.
There is excellent traction when the ground is dry.
There is adequate cushioning inside the shoes for support and comfort.
They are very reasonably priced based on the features of the shoes.
These shoes are extremely sturdy making them great walking shoes.
CONS
The “normal” size may fit a bit small and is more suited for narrow feet. If you are unsure of your foot size it may be better to start with a “wide” shoe. If you know you have wide feet, an “extra wide” is likely best for you.
If it gets wet, there is very little traction from the base of the shoes.
These slip-on walking shoes are all about comfort. They are light and flexible and easy to put on and take off. Many users describe these walking shoes as “walking on clouds”, “super cushy” and “like wearing bedroom slippers”.
These shoes are notably comfortable due to a memory foam cushioned heel and a goga mat insole.
Using materials like these ensures that the shoes remain lightweight and comfortable to walk in. In addition to these materials the shoes are made of extremely breathable fabric to easily aerate your feet while wearing them.
The Skechers Performance Men’s Go Walk 5 is available for purchase in several different colors. They are also available in a wide variety of sizes including wide width options. The traction on these shoes is superb because they have rubber soles and the heel measures just about 1.5 inches.
PROS
Because of the build quality of the shoes, they are extremely comfortable when worn.
As is expected, these shoes are perfect for walking or other forms of physical activity because they are very lightweight.
The shoes get more comfortable with each wear because of the memory foam cushioning in the heel.
Because of the design of the shoes, they can be comfortably worn with or without socks.
There are no laces so you can put the shoes on or take them off with only a tiny bit of effort.
CONS
The shoe may not be true to size so you may have to order a different size from what you usually wear.
Some people say the shoe runs a bit wide.
They are not super-durable and if you give them heavy usage, you may have to replace the shoes after 3-4 months.
The shoe does not have any laces so it may not be secure enough for walking on unpaved areas.
Lightweight design does not make them ideal for any off-roading or hiking.
The walking shoes are made of synthetic material and have a rubber sole for good traction. With breathable mesh fabric at the top of the shoes, the design promotes airflow to your feet as you walk.
In addition to these great features, the padded tongue and collar inside the shoes assist in enhancing the comfort level as you walk around. Moreover, the shoes are extremely lightweight and are especially suited for cross training because it is very easy to move around in them.
PROS
These shoes are very easy on the feet because they are remarkably lightweight.
Because the shoes are very light, you will be able to move around in them pretty easily.
The rubber sole of the shoes provides a lot of traction as you walk around.
Great arch support.
The insoles are removable so they can be replaced by new ones very easily or cleaned and returned to the shoe.
CONS
These shoes may not be very suitable for men who have very wide feet because they may run a bit narrow.
The padding in the insole of the shoes may not be supportive for all arch-types so some persons may find the shoes uncomfortable.
8. Best for Hiking and Rough Terrain: Merrell All Out Blaze Aero Sport
Merrell All Out Blaze Aero Sport
Merrell is one of the best-known hiking gear manufacturers in the United States and around the world. They’ve been making high-end hiking boots and shoes since 1981.
The Merrell All Out Blaze Aero Sport is one of their most popular low-profile hiking shoe models. It’s marketed as a “speed hiking” shoe, designed to provide fluid and unobtrusive motion on all terrains.
The upper is a highly permeable synthetic mesh that allows great ventilation and dries quickly if it gets wet. It’s also stretchy and flexible to contour to your feet.
The midsole features Merrell’s Unifly which makes it both flexible and highly supportive, and protective of your feet. The All Outs are part of Merrell’s M-connect series of shoes. M-connects have a minimalist approach to hiking shoes with a heel-to-toe drop of only six millimeters and feature lightweight materials.
They also have a protective toe and heel cap which are indispensable when hiking in rough terrain. And, they have reflective details to make you more visible in low-light conditions.
The shoe is roomy, almost to the extreme. It features a massive toe box that wide-footed users will truly enjoy. However, people with narrower-than-average feet will feel their toes rattling around a little in these shoes.
The rubber outsole is made by Vibram, which is one of the most renowned outsole manufacturers around.
PROS
Lightweight for its category
A minimalist approach keeps things simple and functional
Toe cap protects your toes in rough terrain
Upper is fully made of a breathable mesh lining
Molded TPU heel counter adds stability and comfort
CONS
Far too wide for people with narrow feet
Some users complain that the soles are a little too firm for their taste
9. Most Stylish: Steve Madden – Konrad Casual Walking Shoes
This shoe is an interesting hybrid. It is a comfortable leather walking shoe, but it looks fancy enough (although it is very inexpensive) that it can easily work with more casual office attire.
The perfect thing to wear to work so that you can get some walking done on breaks and during lunch hours. The Steve Madden – Konrad Casual Walking Shoes looks like a fancy pair of dress shoes but wears like a breathable and comfortable pair of walking shoes.
The leather toe box can even be nicely polished to mirror shine. Each shoe features rubber soles for great traction, leather upper and large toe box, perforated details for breathability, lace up front, leather lining and great cushioning for a comfortable bed to rest your foot.
PROS
Looks great can double as dress shoes with many more casual office outfits.
The pair of shoes has a lot of space in the toe box making it very desirable for persons with wide feet.
Unwanted odors will not be trapped inside the shoes because they are odor-resistant.
These shoes provide superb support while walking, so you do not have to worry about getting injured very easily.
There is adequate cushioning in the sole of the shoes to enhance shock absorption as you walk.
The shoes are true to size, so you do not have to order a size up or down.
Because the sole of the shoes is made of rubber, there is a good amount of traction as you move around.
CONS
Although time was spent making these shoes as breathable as possible, the amount of leather used means they will not be as breathable and light as some other options.
They come in limited sizes and colors. If you have an odd sized foot you may not find the perfect shoe you want.
Final Thoughts on the Best Men’s Walking Shoes
Some guys may find it a bit difficult to find a pair of walking shoes that check every item on their list.
Maybe your list is not very realistic; perhaps you have not taken into account the most important features of walking shoes, so or maybe you are searching for your shoes in all the wrong places.
Remember that you need to look for comfortable walking shoes that are a perfect fit for your feet. Make sure that they are not too heavy for you to move around in, and they have a lot of cushion and support to minimize your chances of injury while you move around in them.
Why? This walking shoe offers a tremendous amount of comfort which I value very highly while striking a balance with being sturdy enough so you can wear them throughout the day.
Of course, take this recommendation with a grain of salt. If you’re a guy who wants a walking shoe for traveling or something with a little style, then you can’t go wrong with the Allbirds Men’s Wool Runners.
There might be affiliate links on this page, which means we get a small commission of anything you buy. As an Amazon Associate we earn from qualifying purchases. Please do your own research before making any online purchase.
If you are in a hurry and just want to know our top recommended walking shoes for women, then we suggest you check out Ryka Momentum for your daily exercise habit and Allbirds’s Tree Runnersif you want a stylish shoe for traveling and walking throughout the day.
Walking is an extremely underrated form of exercise.
In fact, there are a wide range of benefits to walking that include improved circulation, reduced body fat, less impact on joints, strengthening your muscles, increased mental energy and even a reduction on the risk of Alzheimer’s disease!
Unfortunately, even though walking is a great form of exercise, many avid walkers make one critical mistake when engaging in this type of exercise — they typically wear running shoes instead of walking shoes.
This mistake is due to a couple of factors like:
A lack of education on the basic differences between the two types of shoes
Manufacturers that primarily focus on marketing their running shoe lines
How to find that a walking shoe that’s right for your personal situation.
So with all this in mind, we have put together a list of the best women’s walking shoes for 2023.
These sustainable walking shoes hit the market
in 2018 and changed the game when it came to caring for the environment while
making comfortable shoes. Allbirds, the direct-to-consumer brand behind these
shoes, has a strong commitment to environmental sustainability, which led them
to release the “tree” collection of shoes.
These breathable walking shoes feature a mesh
knit upper and are made with a silky-smooth–yet textured– fabric, offering a
comforting and cooling feel. All of these materials are made from responsibly
grown and sustainably harvested eucalyptus pulp, hence, the “tree” collection.
According to Allbirds,
this material uses only 5% of the amount of water and about 30% of the amount
of land to manufacture when compared to typical sneaker materials.
The material used to make these shoes is
noticeably cooling and can wick moisture away, making these shoes ideal for
summer travel and all-day wear. The insoles provide the utmost comfort, keeping
users coming back to buy multiple pairs.
When it comes to style, the women’s options
come in eight colors, so you can pick the style that best suits you. The thick
laces offer a stylistic contrast to the form-fitting shoes, and the semi-muted
colors allow these to match pretty much anything in your closet. Users report
that these shoes (and their color) hold up well with time and show very few
signs of wear.
PROS
Lightweight and breezy, helping your feet stay cool
Flexibility conforms to your feet
Machine washable
Have a low carbon footprint
Made of soft material that will not give blisters
CONS
Run a bit large
Will not hold up on rugged terrain
These shoes don’t offer as much support as other options
2. Runner-Up Option for Walking Shoes: Ryka Momentum
The Momentum
walking shoes are from Ryka’s fEMPOWER collection, which is their elite line of
shoes engineered exclusively
for women. When compared with other shoes, this women’s collection offers a
narrower heel, more room in the toe box, and softer cushioning for an
unprecedented fit, comfort, cushion, and impact support. These shoes are made
with the most up-to-date performance technology, allowing your shoes to be the
last thing on your mind during your long walks.
Made with
performance innovation in mind, these walking shoes feature a lightweight
molded EVA midsole with full RE-ZORB® responsive cushioning to protect your
body upon impact as you’re walking. This impact protection also absorbs shock
with every step you take. Furthermore, the Anatomical
Precise-Return™ soles are designed with extra
support for women’s arches and heels, while still offering an ultra-lightweight
footwear option.
These walking
shoes are made with a stretch knit upper that is not only very breathable, but
also comes with custom designs, offering an artsy, ombre decor with layered
glassy overlays. These shoes feature luxe details with
pillow-soft, microfiber supportive lining that will last you the lifetime of
the shoe. These shoes come in six colors: black,
chambray blue, gray dawn, indigo, mauve chalk, and peach parfait.
They offer a
lace-up front–allowing users to determine the exact fit–however, they are
slip-on shoes with a small tab at the backs to help users pull them on. The
stretchy laces can be adjusted as needed underneath the upper. They come with a
durable, rubber plate outsole to ensure their long-lasting abilities.
PROS
Come in a variety of colors and designs
Breathable
Offers great traction
Absorbs shock well
Lightweight
CONS
Run narrow
Some find the cushioning takes some “breaking in” before it softens up
Some users do not like that this shoe has no tongue
3. Most Affordable Walking Shoe for Women: Saucony Women’s ProGrid Integrity ST2 Walking Shoe
Saucony is a relatively new brand which is taking the athletic footwear market by storm. Although not as widely popular as New Balance quite yet, Saucony is expected to be quite a refreshing new treat.
PROS
These shoes are the most inexpensive ones on this list. Although the price range isn’t quite fixed, it can be almost as low as $25.
They provide stability for neutral arched or low arched people.
They have extra padding for shock control.
They have a complete leather front insole covering.
The heel drop measurement is within the suitable limit.
CONS
The product isn’t for people with high arched feet. It can be a dream come true for low to neutral arched people. However, a high arched person would receive no shock control or stability from them. You can always add arches to shoes if you’d like.
Unlike some versions of the Bondi in the past, the Hoka One One Bondi 6 comes with a rocking chair-like shape in the sole to make for a smooth stride and enhanced feel.
This year’s update also comes with updated “marshmallow” cushioning to offer a softer step, making it the best shoe on the market if you’re looking for great cushioning.
Moreover, the thick, double-layer midsole adds the perfect amount of forgiveness–yet the firm cushioning offers a maximalist shoe while minimizing the impact of each step.
With a 36 mm midsole, these plush shoes offer
a good amount of lift, however, with a more precise fit than previous versions
of this shoe, they feel very stable–even if you have to take a sharp turn. The
heel collar offers more padding in addition to heel-stability, allowing you to
feel secure when wearing these shoes.
The redesigned upper is very breathable, made
using a combination of engineered mesh and lycra. This keeps the front of your
feet feeling especially cool, and your feet maintaining an airy feeling
throughout the day. HOKA also redesigned the Bondi 6’s rubber outsole, making
it wider and more durable than before without compromising the shoes’
lightweight feel.
These forgiving shoes work well if you need an
everyday training shoe, but they’re also great for those who want to try to
keep running in the face of overuse pain or while going for a slow recovery
walk or run.
PROS
The cushioning capacity of these shoes is superior to all others
Each step absorbs shock and returns energy to the foot
Many love wearing these shoes to work
These shoes come in a variety of colors and runners appreciate how the colors schemes catch attention
The upper is very breathable–in fact–more breathable than previous versions
CONS
Some find this shoe to be too narrow.
The tongue may uncomfortably rub against the instep
The rubber outsole is not very durable
The underfoot is slightly stiff
5. Best for Pain-Free Walking: Orthofeet’s Coral Gray Stretchable
Orthofeet’s Coral Gray Stretchable shoes offer exceptional comfort and a sure, non-binding fit. With a stretchable upper, they will form to fit the unique shape of your foot. They’re also padded with foam and have no overlays in areas that could be tender on your feet, allowing your feet to feel relaxed.
They provide extra room in the toe box so you can freely and comfortably move your toes around without feeling pressure on your feet. However, they still offer extreme protection in areas of pressure points using a soft, seamless interior lining.
Orthofeet’s Stretchable walking shoes have anatomical orthotic insoles and ergonomic soles, providing users with support and thorough cushioning. The premium insoles have an anatomical arch support along with multiple layers of cushioning.
This helps reduce pain because it improves foot alignment, which eases the stress and pressure that’s put on your body as you’re walking. Furthermore, they are made out of an anti-microbial fabric, which prevents odors from forming. The shoes also have a padded collar on the back, making them easy to slip on and off as needed.
The Ergonomic-StrideTM soles include air pockets beneath the heels, which is ideal for people who suffer from heel pain after (or during) walking. The air cushioning softens your steps and improves your stability. Users report that the soles help propel your feet forward as you’re walking, which adds spring to your step as if you’re walking on clouds.
These features make this option great for anyone who suffers from plantar fasciitis, diabetes, neuropathy, hammertoes, heel pain, or bunions. These shoes qualify as women’s therapeutic shoes and are certified by Medicare, making them a great solution for women who are looking for diabetic sneakers.
PROS
Great for reducing pain
You can try these risk-free for 60 days
Users report these shoes make them feel like they’re walking on clouds
These shoes come with fitting spacers to further help customize the fit to your foot
Users report liking the style of these shoes
CONS
These shoes fall in a higher price-range
Not great for users with heel bone spurs
Some users report that the support in these shoes wear down within months of use
6. Stylish Walking & Running Shoe: Allbirds Tree Dashers
This is the first model of running shoes that Allbirds has put out, and they certainly do not disappoint. Allbirds Tree Dashers are great if you’re looking for an option that you can wear to work and while running, as they don’t display any logos, overlays, or graphics.
The understated and simple look of these shoes is unlike many other running shoes, making them appropriate to wear almost anywhere. Allbirds is famous for the comfort that their shoes offer, and these are no exception.
The midsoles of these shoes are filled with materials derived from sugarcane coupled with negative green EVA, which is appropriately known as SweetFoam. The soles are great at absorbing impact as you walk, but they are still firm enough to use for running.
Users report these to be “middle of the road” in terms of cushioning, meaning they work well for most people, most of the time. The rubber coverage in the forefoot and heel help extend the life of these shoes. Also, the base of the Allbirds Tree Dashers is wide, so they offer good stability as you’re walking.
These shoes have a 7mm drop, which is neither too thick nor too thin. The stretchy knit upper adds to the comfortability of these shoes, as they offer your feet a bit of freedom and will mold to your feet. The knit is made from recycled materials and eucalyptus, making it very eco friendly.
The heel collar is also all natural, as it is made using Merino wool. This material is firm enough to keep your feet in place while also maintaining comfort–plus, it helps users be able to easily step in and out of these shoes.
Allbirds Tree Dashers are ideal for both running and walking. They offer users a sense of security because they’re snug through the midfoot, however, they become wider around the ball of your foot, which keeps them comfortable for long days on your feet.
Users have noted that they’re great for people who are just getting into running because of their ability to conform to your foot. These are definitely a great shoe to have on hand for traveling, as walking for miles upon miles in them will not be a problem.
PROS
These shoes are a neutral style, making them ideal for many situations
They’re made out of sustainable material
The upper is secured internally by a thin microfiber layer to help hold your midfoot in place
Versatile and appealing to people who have a variety of tastes
Offers protection and performance
CONS
These shoes are firm, so they’re not ideal for people who prefer extra cushioning
Users should wear socks with these to prevent heel slippage
Offers very little grip, so these shoes are not recommended to wear in the rain
If you need comfortable footwear while walking in warmer weather, or if you prefer less coverage than what a pair of flats provides, a pair of sandals might be a better choice. And with Vionic’s Lupe Sandal, you’ll be certain to find a pair that fits you perfectly.
Their Lupe sandals are available in whole and half sizes, as well as in medium and wide widths.
They come in three colors: cream boa, black leather, and tan leather. Each one is elegantly designed, with a strap across the thong upper, giving them a chic, minimalistic look and providing support and comfort while you’re walking.
Each pair of Vionic footwear is biomechanically designed to support the feet’s arches with a built-in orthotic. They’re effective in easing heel pain (plantar fasciitis), as the sandal cradles the whole lower part of the foot while you’re running or walking.
In the Lupe sandal, this support system is found in the microfiber-covered EVA footbed. It is a shock absorber for every step you take. This makes the sandals the ideal footwear for those who have experienced foot, leg, or ankle injuries.
The Lupe sandal features a rubber outsole with a patterned tread, providing added stability during every step, regardless of surface.
PROS
Dependable traction and stability.
Elegant design means they go well with any outfit.
Provides stylish comfort.
Great alternative to closed walking shoes.
Provides relief for heel pain.
CONS
A break-in period is required before you can wear them for extended periods.
Limited color choices.
Some users report that the arch support tends to be too firm for comfort.
8. Best Balance of Lightweight & Cushion: New Balance Women’s WW1865v1 Walking Shoe
New Balance is one of the world’s leading brands when it comes to sports wear. The absolute greatest thing about New Balance is the fact that they take criticism very seriously and you can always expect their products to keep getting better and better.
New Balance Women’s WW1865v1 Walking Shoe is yet to be severely criticized by any of the people who bought it, however, there are some minor complaints here and there. The reason why this product made the top of the list is because of it’s insane popularity among walkers.
PROS
This walking shoe is one of the lightest walking shoes you can expect to find in the market today. You might feel like the overall product is not durable enough for long-term use because of it’s weight. However, this isn’t true since there’s enough padding within the shoe to compensate for anything you might think it’s lacking.
The material is synthetic.The product is durable.
It comes in a very attractive price range. This is the main reason why the product has gained such popularity among walkers everywhere.
Even if you walk for long periods of time, these shoes won’t hurt your feet. This is mainly due to the extra layer of cushion added to the shoes.
CONS
The arch isn’t as high as some people might’ve wanted it to be. You might have to wear thicker socks to compensate for this.
The sole might be softer however, your foot can easily poke into it. Thus, when you’re walking, you would feel like it doesn’t carry your shoes all the way up, all the time.
The product isn’t as breathable as some of the other walking shoes manufactured by New Balance. It’s mainly because of all the extra padding that your toes aren’t left with a lot of wiggle space.
9. Perfect for Walking & Standing All Day: Orthofeet’s Whitney
Orthofeet’s Whitney offers users exceptional comfort, making them ideal for those who have to walk and stand all day. These lace-up shoes are form-fitting, yet non-binding, providing extra space for users to freely move their toes and have full protection against pressure points.
They feature soft, flexible uppers and a seamless fabric lining to give users extra comfort and protection–even those who have sensitive feet. The Whitneys are orthotic-friendly, meaning they feature an extra deep design and come with removable insoles, giving users ample space to insert custom orthotics, if needed.
These shoes contain premium, anatomical orthotic insoles and lightweight ergonomic soles, which provide support and exceptional cushioning, making these shoes a great option for women who suffer from plantar fasciitis, bunions, and other foot pain.
They also feature air cushioning and extra foam padding, giving users “pillow” support to ease existing pain and prevent future injuries. This also adds spring to your step, which softens the pressure you’re putting on your body when walking in these shoes.
These leather sneakers come in extended width sizes, so users can be sure to find a suitable pair. They’re available in medium, wide, extra-wide, and extra-extra-wide widths, helping everyone to find a comfortable fit.
Whitneys are certified by Medicare, plus they’re qualified as being “therapeutic” under code A5500 of the Diabetic Shoe Bill, making these shoes a good option for women who need diabetic walking shoes. The unique design of these shoes offer superior comfort, helping alleviate pressure on the joints, increase stability, and improve mobility.
PROS
You will stay comfortable in these shoes if you have to walk or stand all day
Many users have found these to actually heal their foot problems
You can test these shoes for 60 days to make sure you like them and return them if you’re not satisfied
Available in extended widths, up to extra-extra-wide
The ¼” thick insoles are removable for those who have custom orthotics
Designed with an unprecedented Ortho-Cushion system, and engineered with proprietary comfort features
CONS
These shoes offer function over fashion
Expensive
Last about a year with frequent wear
10. Best Shock Resistant and Cushioned Choice: Vionic Women’s Walker
There’s padding inside and the shoes are specifically designed for shock resistant therapy.
Perfect for people of all arch types.
Provides stability.
Waterproof exterior.
CONS
The shoes aren’t lightweight and do not have the best fit. In fact, you might actually have to take a size quite different than yours to get the perfect fit. You can always pick the right ones in a store.
They aren’t well adapted for all surfaces, even though that’s a necessity for walking shoes. In preferable surfaces where the shoe is amazing, it’s amazing. In surfaces the manufacturers haven’t adapted it to, it’s not amazing.
11. Best Minimalist, Lightweight Shoe: Oofos Women’s Oomg Low Shoe
Oofos Women’s Oomg Low Shoe feature a simple, slip-on design that is suitable for people with a wide variety of tastes. Furthermore, they’re available in nine colors, so you can personalize them to your liking. They’re made with breathable 4-way stretch fabric and a soft upper, which offers a lightweight, comfortable shoe that you won’t want to take off.
The three primary features that these shoes offer women are impact absorption, comfort, and arch support. These shoes enable users to engage in a natural motion as they’re walking. They offer superior support by cradling the arch of your foot.
The unique OOfoam™ technology that is used to make the Oomg Low shoes absorbs 37% more impact than regular sneaker foam materials, which reduces the stress that you put on your joints as you’re walking.
In fact, this patented footbed was designed with superior arch support to remove the stress that you put on your ankles, hips, knees, and lower back as you walk. This technology also speeds up the recovery process of existing injuries and creates a very secure and comfortable shoe that you can wear anywhere.
These shoes are often used by competitive athletes due to their beneficial features, however, many love to wear them on an everyday basis because they are an ideal lifestyle shoe.
PROS
Great option for anyone looking for a minimalist and lightweight shoe
Every OOFOS.com purchase contributes to research for finding a cure for breast cancer
Helps you recover from long walks, runs, and injuries faster than wearing a normal shoe
Reduces stress on sore joints
Machine washable and bacteria-resistant
CONS
Not available in half sizes
Some users have experienced rubbing that has led to blisters
The heels are a bit bulky
12.Most Comfortable Walking Shoe for Women: New Balance Women’s WW928 Health Walking Lace-Up Sneaker
Another of the best women’s walking shoes is by New Balance. Having multiple brands of shoes on the list is quite an accomplishment for New Balance.
Especially considering the fact that many athletics manufacturers won’t give women walkers the time of day. New Balance Women’s WW928 Health Walking Lace-Up Sneaker has received much more positive reviews than the previous one, however, there’s a reason why it didn’t make number one: price.
PROS
The fit is perfect. It’s breathable and fits smoothly without being loose at any end. No one has ever complained of the fit. In fact, even if you buy it online without physically trying it on, you will always get a shoe in the exact size that you ordered.
It’s durable since it’s made from leather with a rubber sole. If you’re someone who likes to take long walks or hikes than this product can work for you.
It’s light weight as well, however, not as light weight as number one. It does come in close at 11.4 ounces.
It has a rollball support system.
CONS
The price is way higher than the “woman’s fitness walking shoe” made from the same company. Even though the company would argue that this product is better than the other one, to customer, the price really does matter and the other product is at a considerably cheaper price.
Customers have also made complaints over the confusion of the manufacturing country. On their website, it says made in the US. Where as the actual product is made in Vietnam.
ASICS began manufacturing athletic shoes in 1949. Indeed one of the most experienced companies on this list. As the years went by, the quality of their product kept getting better and better. A definite buy with lots of great reviews.
PROS
ASICS Women’s GEL-Tech Neo 4 Walking Shoe has medicare and is specially designed to make sure that you don’t hurt yourself while walking on rocky surfaces or get blisters from walking too long.
The console is made of rubber and is removable.
The material used is all synthetic.
Designed for all arch types.
Incredibly durable. Can be used for years on end.
Walking in them is so comfortable that people have reported recovering from knee injuries or twisted ankles.
CONS
The product is among the heaviest shoes on the list. Although it weighs only 2 pounds, that’s still considered a lot compared to 9.6 ounces. A walking shoe has to be lightweight so that the person can walk easily in them without having to put in extra effort to move his/her shoes along with them.
ASICS might manufacture some amazing shoes. However, at a huge price. Although the investment is worth it, many people would stray away from some thing that can cost up to $125.
This lightweight, neutral shoe is perfect for those who aren’t looking to spend a lot of money. Ryka Sky Walk is designed and engineered for fitness walking, with a memory foam footbed, TPU midfoot shank, and extra plush cushioning and support. Furthermore, the insoles are softly lined, which helps them mold to the shape of your foot and distribute your weight evenly.
The low-cut upper is made from a breathable mesh fabric, which gives you full ventilation, ensuring your feet stay dry as you walk. These shoes also feature leather overlays in key areas that help provide lateral support as well. To increase security even more, these shoes have a traditional laced closure, so users can make them as tight or as loose as they prefer.
These shoes feature a padded tongue and heel collar, which helps give them their snug fit. The tongue will also protect your instep from potential irritation from the laces.
The molded EVA midsoles will provide you with even more cushioning. These midsoles also help absorb impact and feature a TPU shank to ensure the structure of these shoes does not become compromised by excessive use.
The soles of the Ryka Sky Walks are made of rubber, which gives walkers traction on various terrains. The durable soles are also both flexible and waterproof, so the conditions under which you walk are not limited.
Finally, these shoes come in five different colors, so you can pick whichever suits your style!
PROS
These comfortable shoes are budget-friendly
Users love the stylish colors and designs offered
Fits as expected
These shoes accommodate various foot conditions, such as plantar fasciitis and hammertoes.
Features a roomy toe box.
CONS
Some users have expressed that various parts of these shoes start to show signs of wear relatively quickly
These shoes offer less cushioning than other options
Some report that the Ryka Sky Walks aren’t able to keep the foot as steady as other options
15. Best for Trail Walking: The North Face Women’s Hedgehog Fastpack GTX Hiker
The North Face Women’s Hedgehog Fastpack GTX Hiker are a lightweight hiking and trail walking shoe in one. They maintain a trail running shoe look, however, the majority of the padding is located in the heel of the shoe, which is perfect for walking or hiking.
These North Face shoes feature a waterproof Gore-Tex liner, which is a backup water repellent for the upper, which is synthetic and keeps the majority of the water out. They’re soft and flexible, which allow users’ feet to easily move from side to side without feeling too snug.
In terms of comfort, there is a lot of cushioning in the soles of these shoes in addition to a padded tongue. There is plenty of arch support as well, which adds to the comfortability. Additionally, the midsole is coated in PU leather and offers a dual-density EVA.
The soles of these shoes are a unique multicolor Vibram that is both attractive and functional, with soft and flexible inner rubber, which will also help you gain traction on slippery surfaces.. The design of the sole comes in the shape of either a flower or tree branch. On the forefront of the shoes, there is a small rubber toe cap that’s resistant to abrasion to help protect your feet against the elements of the trails.
This is a great option for the price if you’re looking for a middle of the line shoe.
These might be the right shoes for you if you have an active lifestyle. Orthofeet Women’s Verve-Turquoise Tie-Less Lace shoes provide anatomical arch support, have a non-binding and relaxed fit, and provide the user with maximum protection in areas of the foot where pressure points are located.
They have a premium orthotic insole as well as ergonomic, cushioned soles that help soften each step you take while also improving your stability and allowing your feel to move in their natural way.
These shoes are engineered to help reduce pain while walking and improve comfort for people who have sensitive feet. They have a deep, wide toe box to let your feet take up the space that they naturally would if you were wearing no shoes at all.
PROS
Many find these shoes do not require the addition of their specialty orthotics.
It comes with an adjustable strap for the heel.
Easy to take the shoes on and off with the Velcro straps.
CONS
It has a prominent logo, which makes it clear to others you are wearing orthotic shoes.
Some find the toe box is too shallow.
Soles wear out quickly.
17. Best Women’s Shoe for Flat Feet: Easy Spirit Women’s Romy Walking Shoe
Easy Spirit Women’s Romy Walking Shoe is the best overall option for proper ankle and arch support, durability, price, and appearance. These shoes are incredibly lightweight and perfect for light running.
They come in a variety of colors, which makes them a fashionable athletic option. The removable sock liner gives the user excellent cushioning and absorbs shock.
PROS
Has plenty of room for thicker socks.
Durable and long-lasting.
Has a high toe box.
CONS
Doesn’t come in half sizes.
Some find these shoes do not provide enough joint support.
Users often have to tighten the laces.
What is the Difference Between a Walking Shoe and Running Shoe?
The difference is all in how it feels when you put it on.
A walker walks heel first as opposed to a runner who runs in-sole first. A running shoe will have a stiffer sole whereas a walking shoe will have more flex and blend to its design.
Keep in mind the fact that manufacturers put more thought into running shoes than they do in walking shoes, so what might seem the same to you might actually make a huge difference to you when you walk in them.
So with that mind, we recommend looking for 5 critical components when shopping for a walking shoe.
5 Steps to Shop for a Walking Shoe
As you shop for a walking shoe, make sure that the product you select fits your expectations in five ways.
#1. Flexible and Light Weight
In this case, you need to make sure that whichever shoe you picked is both flexible and lightweight. A good walking shoe would weigh between 10 to 32 ounces. The reason why you would need a lightweight shoe is that it’s easier to move around in them on any surface. Same is the case with flexibility.
A good way to check whether the shoe is too flexible or just the right amount is to try twisting the shoe at the sole. If it twists to a certain degree without twisting completely, then it’s at the right amount.
#2. Breathable but with a good fit
Try walking around for about 30 minutes before trying the shoes on. What this does is make your foot a bit swollen. When you wear the shoe, you can determine whether it’ll fit perfectly after a long walk or will it be too tight. Your shoes don’t have to be too fitted, however.
Make sure that there’s an almost 1.3-centimeter space left between your toes and the tip of the shoe. The sides don’t have to be too tight to the point of hurting you, however, they can’t be too loose to the point where your foot falls off either.
#3. Flat
Your heel tends to touch the ground first when you’re walking, so you would need shoes which lay flat. However, as I’m pretty sure you know, no athletic shoe is completely flat. This is referred to as the heel drop measurement. The difference in heights can be from 10-30 millimeters based on whichever design you pick.
I’d strongly recommend buying shoes with a heel drop measurement of 0-10 millimeters. If your heel is way higher than your toes, then you’ll be creating more pressure there and as a result, blisters will form on your toes.
#4. Cushioning
All walking shoes have some sort of padding inside of them. The padding can make a huge difference id you’re keen on comfort, as you should be. It’s usually the padding which saves your foot from bruises, blisters or from poking your feet at rocky surfaces.
Look for a shoe with soft padding, it doesn’t matter if it looks less in comparison to another shoe, what matters is the comfort.
#5. Price
A good women’s walking shoe is one which doesn’t put too much strain on your wallet. Trust me, a good choice for you with all the necessities I just mentioned is possible to buy in a specific price limit. I recommend focusing on the $60 to $120 price range.
Okay, to recap, here’s what you need to look for when shopping for a walking shoe:
What to look for in a walking shoe [infographic]
Walking Shoe Arch Types: A Quick Overview
One last thing to consider when shopping for a walking shoe for a woman is understand how your arches work. Our feet are able to form two types of arches for bodyweight distribution: sideways and longitudinal.
Sideways arches run from one corner of the insole to the other and longitudinal arches run from the bottom part of the insole till the top of your heel. If you’re looking for the perfect walking shoes, then you need to determine your arch type first.
A quick test to identify what type of arch you have is to examine your foot prints.
If you’re able to see all of your foot in the print, you have a low arch. If you’re able to see the middle of your foot only sparingly in the print then you have a high arch. And, if you’re undecided about what category to put your arch type then you’re probably a neutral arch type.
Once you’ve identified your arch type, I recommend looking for walking shoe that matches it. Here is what to pick based on the three types of arches:
#1. Low arch type
You might want to go a little below the required amount of flexibility and a little less heel drop in order to stabilize your feet.
#2. High arch type
People with high arch type feet do not have good natural shock control. In order to compensate for this, you would need shoes with extra padding and curvature in their design.
#3. Neutral arch types
People with neutral arch types can refer to the section on the best features since this mainly applies to them. However, they might shift towards different heel drop measurements or padding based on where they think they’re leaning to.
Should I Purchase a Walking Shoe for a Specific Type of Surface or Activity?
The short answer is typically yes.
Most walking shoes are adapted to a particular area. Even if the manufacturers say that their shoes are adapted to all surfaces, don’t believe them! You might have noticed how some shoes hurt your feet while walking at a particular surface, whereas you’re much more comfortable in another pair of shoes.
When buying walking shoes, and I mean actually buying them with the purpose of treating walking as an exercise, you need to go to the best athletics store there is. Even there, don’t take the shopkeepers word for it.
Try the product out, walk on a few different surfaces you might find around the store and determine for yourself whether it’s comfortable at the same level on both the surfaces or not.
Now, if you are dealing with a specific surface or medical issue, then I recommend checking out these specialized buying guides:
Final Thoughts on Women’s Walking Shoes
Walking has a lot of benefits and there are people who think that unless you’re jogging or running, you aren’t losing weight. Those people will be left dumbfounded after you walk into the room looking better than you’ve ever looked and you’ll owe it all to treating walking as a proper exercise.
Walking shoes for women are being made available for every one slowly but surely. Just follow this ultimate buyers guide to help you pick out the best walking shoes out there for you.
Finally, if you’d like to learn more about how to build a walking habit, be sure to check out our other information-packed articles on this subject.
Thanks for checking out this buying guide. I hoped it helped you find the right walking shoe that fits your specific needs!
