Our top pick is the HOKA Bondi 8 for its quality construction and exceptional cushioning and support
Courtney Leiva joined the PEOPLE team as a writer in 2022. Over the past ten years, she has contributed to various shopping, beauty, health, and wellness stories, with commerce content being her specialty. Courtney's commerce content has been published in InStyle, Martha Stewart Living, and more. When she is not writing, you can find her combing through Reddit threads for the scoop on the latest trends, adding new kitchen appliances to her collection, or finding yet an excuse to go to HomeGoods. Courtney graduated with a Bachelor of Science in Communications with a concentration in Journalism from Ramapo College of New Jersey. Elastic Wedge Sandals Factory
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Like a rain jacket or a good pair of jeans, walking shoes are a non-negotiable staple no closet should be without. Since walking is the body’s natural movement, you’ll want a supportive pair that’ll protect your feet and keep up with every step.
There are a lot of shoes out there with different construction and unique features, so to help you kickstart your search, we tapped physical therapists, board-certified podiatrists, fitness experts, and performance specialists to recommend the best walking shoes for every type of foot.
Whether you’re looking for a walking shoe perfect with a cushy toe box or something that can handle periods of walking and running equally, we’re here to help. We interviewed 16 experts and researched dozens of walking shoes, carefully considering design, durability, fabric, and fit, to find the best walking shoes worth your money. We also put several pairs to the test to collect our own insights.
Keep reading to learn more about the best walking shoes, according to 16 doctors and experts as well as our own tests.
Walking shoes support the body’s natural movement. However, not all walking shoes are created equal. To find the right pair, Dr. Kuizinas recommends prioritizing walking shoes that are flexible and supportive and not overly stiff and cushioned. “It’s best to have some flexibility in the sole and just enough cushioning to keep your feet comfortable,” she says. “Too much cushioning can make your feet and ankles unstable and promote compensations in your walking cycle.”
Likewise, you’ll want to select walking shoes with a wide toe box that allows your toes to spread. “This will improve the mechanics of your walk and reduce the risk of injuries like plantar fasciitis,” adds Dr. Kuizinas. Walking shoes on this list with particularly wide toe boxes include the Altra Rivera 2 and the Brooks Addiction Walker 2, but most on this list feature wide toe boxes. No matter what shoe you choose, try it on before your first longer walk to guarantee a perfect fit.
Someone that wants a breathable yet supportive pair of everyday walking shoes for different terrains, especially in warmer weather
People wanting walking shoes with thinner soles
Haven’t discovered your Goldilocks pair of shoes yet? Consider your search over — this bestseller is well-cushioned, fashion-forward (look at all the color options!), and durable enough to handle a variety of surfaces, making it our top choice overall. The Bondi 8 more than meets the high standards that typify Hoka's best shoes. During our testing, we found them to be the perfect weight and cushioning for walking, with a heel that's cupped perfectly and doesn't rub against your ankles for being too stiff. The heel notch is also very padded, and we did not experience any blisters during the testing period. Another noteworthy feature is that the upper is super breathable, making these great for warmer temperatures or if you're prone to sweaty feet. Because of the thick sole absorption, we also would recommend these to anyone with plantar fasciitis in need of walking or running shoes.
Additionally, this pair is also a favorite of a virtual fitness trainer and nutritionist Vanessa Liu. “For those who need a comfortable walking shoe that can withstand daily mileage, the Bondi 8 by Hoka is a great shoe choice,” she tells PEOPLE. “It’s one of those shoes you can take out of the box and wear out the door with minimal break-in required.” And because this shoe provides plenty of cushioning and a grippy sole without being too bulky, Liu says it can handle a variety of surfaces. “You can walk through grass, dirt, gravel, and tarmac,” she adds. We found this to be true in our tests; although they aren't trail shoes, we would feel comfortable wearing these on uneven terrain due to their stability, since they are wide enough to provide support without being too wide where your foot is slipping around inside.
They are available in both women's and men's sizes.
Price at time of publish: $165
Size Range: Women’s 5-12; men’s 7-16 | Material: Engineered mesh construction, recycled content lining mesh, Ortholite hybrid sock liner, Durabrasion rubber outsole | Fit: True to size | Colors: Ice Flow/Bit of Blue, Black/Black, Black/White, Anthracite/Castlerock, and more
Anyone who prefers a lighter cushioned shoe that offers extreme stability and comfort
Someone needing a heavier walking shoe or one specifically made for uneven terrains
Hoka enthusiasts may also appreciate these walking shoes, as while they are bold and beautiful, their lightweight cushioning makes you feel like you’re stepping on clouds. They are also a favorite of Carrie Dorr, CEO of O44 and founder of Pure Barre. “I love this shoe for walking,” Dorr tells PEOPLE. “They have a balanced cushion, are super lightweight, and come in fun color combinations.”
The Cliftons also earned high praises in our testing, being one of the most comfortable shoes we tested. The fit was perfect and they felt flexible, supportive, responsive, and super stable. Because these are lighter than the Hoka Bondi, we recommend them for longer distances — both walking and running..
Plus, they're available in both regular and wide sizing for men and women alike.
Price at time of publish: $140
Size Range: Women’s 5-12; men’s 7-16 | Material: Breathable upper mesh, EVA foam, high abrasion rubber sole | Fit: True to size | Colors: Black/White, Nimbus Cloud/Blanc De Blanc, Bellwether Blue/Scuba Blue, Real Teal/Aquarelle, and more
Anyone who wants a walking shoe that supports arches and contours to the shape of your foot
Someone who walks or runs with more of a flat-footed posture
“The New Balance Fresh Foam X 880v12 is arguably the best multipurpose shoe for arch support,” says performance and injury expert Dr. Rami Hashish, Ph.D., DPT. “Its soft foam compound, dual-layer midsole, rubber outsole, external heel counter, and mesh upper contour to the shape of your foot while being breathable and lightweight,” Dr. Hashish explains. Because of these added features, he suggests this pair to keep you supported through walking, running, and even hardcore training.
The style comes in both women's and men's sizing.
Price at time of publish: $135
Size Range: Women’s 5-13; men’s 7-16 | Material: Top-bed foam cushioning, underfoot Fresh Foam X, double layer knit, engineered upper, blown rubber outsole | Fit: True to Size | Colors: Night Air/Libra/Night Sky, Black/Violet Haze/Steel, Black/Black Metallic/Magnet, Starlight/Bright Mint/Cyber Jade, and more
Someone who wants a shoe with sufficient comfort and waterproof protection
Someone who prefers a more neutral shoe design
Promising comfort and exceptional waterproof protection, this stylish pair will take your rainy day workouts to new heights. Sure, they are technically running shoes, but because they provide arch support and traction while keeping your feet dry, they take the winning slot for this category.
Their stylish design also makes them a favorite of fitness expert Dr. Robin Barrett, NASM-CPT. “I love these waterproof walking shoes because they have great arch support for hitting those strides and traction on the soles that grip the ground when walking,” she tells PEOPLE. “These shoes can withstand wet environments and maintain comfort, but [are] also stylish enough to pair with your favorite workout gear.”
The Allbirds Trail Runners are available in both women's and men's sizing.
Price at time of publish: $155
Size Range: Women’s 5-11; men’s 8-14 | Material: Tencel Lyocell and wool blend upper, water-repellent shield, sugarcane-based EVA midsole, natural rubber outsole, shoelaces made from recycled plastic bottles, castor bean oil-based insole foam, ZQ Merino wool heel lining | Fit: True to size | Colors: Hazy Indigo, Medium Grey/Rugged Khaki, Deep Emerald/Buoyant Mint
Someone who needs a supportive pair of shoes while recovering from an injury, or those needing a shoe with wide width options
Those who prefer a more versatile style of walking shoe
Sometimes, injuries can strike when you least expect them to — so if you find yourself in need of a pair of walking shoes that can provide plenty of stability and support as you recover, consider your search over — this Merrell pair helps you move with ease without causing further pains and strains, according to Lalitha Bhowani-McSorley, a lead physical therapist at Brentwood Physio.
“It is important to have good support in your shoes because it helps to distribute the weight evenly, which, in turn, prevents pain and injury,” she tells PEOPLE. “This pair provides plenty of support and helps you to move more easily and efficiently, which is especially important when recovering from an injury.”
However, you can wear these even if you aren't in recovery. PEOPLE's Senior Commerce Editor Erika Reals tested these out and now turns to them as her everyday walking sneaker. "Having a dog and living right next to Central Park in New York, it's easy to get my steps in every day — but not all sneakers are up to this task," she says. "These Merrell Moab sneakers are not only comfortable in terms of having the perfect amount of cushion, but they're also supportive enough to keep my high arches void of pain, no matter how many miles I'm covering."
The Merrell Moab Speed is available in both men's and women's sizing.
Price at time of publish: $130
Size Range: Women’s 5.5-12; men's 7-15 | Material: Mesh and TPU upper, recycled laces and webbing, synthetic toe cap, recycled mesh lining, removable footbed, rock plate, foam midsole, recycled outsole, traction lug sole | Fit: True to size | Colors: Black/Asphalt, Burlwood, Charcoal/Altitude, Lichen, Brindle, and more
Anyone looking for a trend-forward walking shoe that boasts excellent shock absorption
Those needing walking shoes for specific foot issues or anyone needing more ankle support for trail walks
This budget-friendly athletic shoe by Adidas proved to have some of the best responsiveness and shock absorption out of the shoes we tested. While testing these during our walks, we felt they were lightweight, comfortable, and breathable while still feeling supportive. In addition to being especially springy, we also didn't experience any blisters while using them. That's to say the back of the heel does come up a bit further than other walking shoes, so we could imagine some people could experience some irritation in their achilles after long periods of use. We also appreciate the design of the QT racers, since they're stylish enough to wear with athleisure while running errands in addition to out on walks.
Price at time of publish: $70
Size Range: Women’s 5-12 | Material: Cloudfoam midsole, synthetic durable sole, upper made from 50 percent recycled materials | Fit: True to size | Colors: Black/Black, Black/White/Almost Pink, and more
Someone who wants a walking sandal that provides strong arch support and shock absorption
Those who prefer a traditional walking shoe or anyone needing a walking sandal designed for flat feet
If you are planning to walk in a sandal, then you should look for shoes that provide similar arch support to a walking (or tennis) shoe, says Dr. Timothy Oldani, DPM, FACFAS. In fact, arch support sandals can be a game changer for those on their feet all day. So, to keep your feet supported next time you take a long stroll down the beach, Dr. Oldani recommends grabbing this pair, as it has everything from arch support to shock absorption. “This is a great walking sandal that checks all of the right boxes,” he tells PEOPLE. “The footbed is cork and latex, which provides great support through the arch and shock absorption under the ball of the foot. These shoes have been approved by the American Podiatric Medical Association.”
Price at time of publish: $140
Size Range: Women’s 4-13 | Material: Anatomic cork and latex footbed wrapped in suede | Fit: True to Size | Colors: Brick Red Nubuck, Polar Sea Leather, Black Matte Leather, Pink Plum Leather, and more
Someone with flat feet who needs shoes for everyday walking
Those needing a shoe with a roomier fit, since these are rather narrow
Because flat feet need adequate support, you’ll want to find a stable shoe supportive enough for everyday walking, says certified surgical podiatrist Nelya Lobkova, DPM. That’s where this shoe comes in — it is durable with an 8-millimeter drop and supports walking, running, and interval training activities. Plus, it keeps things sustainable with recycled materials and boasts a Speedboard flex plate, which energizes every step.
We hit the pavement to put these popular On Cloud sneakers to the test, and we were surprised how comfortable they were (fitting perfectly) and that they caused zero blisters on someone who is prone to them. They kept our feet warm but not sweaty, so these are great for year-round wear (although we wouldn't recommend wearing them in the snow or ice, of course). While they felt cushioned and comfortable, we found they weren't as responsive as other pairs we tested, but if you don't mind that extra work when running or walking, these are some of the most comfortable shoes on the market.
These are available in both men's and women's sizing.
Price at time of publish: $150
Size Range: Women’s 5-11; men's 7-14 | Material: 3-layer mesh upper made with 90-95% recycled content, CloudTec sole cushioning | Fit: True to size | Colors: White/Black, Lead/Turmeric, Black/Niagra, Cork/Fawn, and more
Someone seeking a long-lasting shoe with significant cushioning and shock absorption
Those who prefer a walking shoe with lighter cushioning or a more budget-friendly option
Beyond the significant cushion and shock absorption in the midsole, these sneakers boast a firm heel counter and high-quality construction, making them a supportive pair that’ll last you years to come, according to Dr. Bruce Pinker, DPM, AACFAS, FAPWCA, DABPM, FACPM. And yes, while these sneakers are technically running shoes, their solid construction makes them an excellent choice for walkers. “These sneakers are durable and very supportive, making long walks enjoyable and comfortable for most individuals,” Dr. Pinker says.
They are also available in men's sizing up to a size 19.
Price at time of publish: $185
Size Range: Women’s 5-13; men’s 7-19 | Material: Pigskin and mesh upper, Encap midsole rim, dual-density collar foam at ankles, blown rubber outsole | Fit: True to size | Colors: Black/Silver, Gray/Castlerock, Navy/Silver, Pink/White
Someone who needs strong shoes that can handle walking, standing, and/or periods of running
Someone who is looking for a more budget-friendly walking shoe
Because nurses spend more time on their feet than most people, a walking shoe that can handle walking and periods of running is best recommended, says physical therapist Jessica McManus, PT, FAAOMPT. “Running shoes withstand three to five times our body weight of force when running, hence they usually have a better cushioning system than walking shoes,” she tells PEOPLE.
While this Altra pair is expensive, it offers a true-to-size fit and has a nice, wide-toe box, making it one investment shoe not to pass up. “These features can help prevent things like bunions and keep the muscle around the ankles, knee, and hip working more efficiently and effectively,” McManus adds.
The style can be found in both men's and women's sizes.
Price at time of publish: $128
Size Range: Women’s 5.5-12; men's 7-14 | Material: Ultra-lightweight and breathable upper, Altra EGO Max midsole foam, Max cushioned interior, and Rubber outsole | Fit: True to size | Colors: Black/Orange, Gray/Yellow, Mineral Blue, Green/Orange, and more
Shoppers on the lookout for a durable, trail-ready shoe that's equal parts sturdy and comfortable
Someone looking for a shock-absorbent running shoe won't get the right support from these tough terrain soles
Outdoor lovers, rejoice, for we've found your newest adventure buddy: the Terrawave Sneakers from Teva. These durable sneakers are made for the trails — featuring a sturdy, heavy-traction outsole comprised of recycled polyester, sugarcane EVA, and synthetic and bio-based textiles to keep your feet protected from the brambles below.
Commerce writer Alyssa Brascia put these to the test in the great outdoors — hiking mountainous trails, zip-lining, and exploring downtown cities in the supportive sneakers — only to end each wear with completely comfortable feet. "No matter what terrain I wore these in, whether woodsy trails or blacktop streets, these shoes felt completely equipped to handle the ground below while keeping me stable," she says. As a former dancer, Brascia is no stranger to sore feet — and that was certainly never a concern with the Terrawaves. "Though I wouldn't go for a run in these, I can vouch for the miles that I've comfortably walked in them," she adds. Music to walk-lovers' ears.
Despite having a tougher tread, this shoe keeps comfort at the forefront thanks to its foam-layered footbed. And aside from being extremely comfortable, these shoes are undeniably cute with its four earthy color combinations — tan and sage, navy and gray, dark and light gray, and ivory and taupe. Plus, they are completely unisex, so anyone can reap the benefits of the great outdoors while staying perfectly comfortable — making room for more adventure in every wearer's life.
Price at time of publish: $150
Size Range: Women’s 5-15.5; men's 3.5-14 | Material: MAX-COMF insole, premium leather upper, recycled polyester, Sorona polymer (polyester alternative), sugarcane EVA midsole, recycled mesh, recycled plastic webbing | Fit: True to size | Colors: Ivory/Tan, Warm Gray/Light Gray, Navy/Gray, and Tan/Sage
Anyone who needs a travel-ready shoe that packs easily and is comfortable and supportive
Someone with higher arches that need more support
Since traveling can mean spending more time on your feet, comfort and weight are two top factors to consider when shopping for a walking shoe, says chiropractor and certified strength and conditioning expert Dr. Matt Tanneberg, CSCS. So, if you’re after shoes that are comfortable, supportive, and lightweight, be sure to add this pair to your wishlist. “These shoes are great for long walks in a foreign country or city, and are stylish enough to dress up or stay casual,” Dr. Tanneberg says. Pair them with some comfortably fashionable denim joggers.
They are also waterproof and machine washable, so they’ll be easy to clean and maintain once you arrive home from your destination. One thing to note: If you have high arches and need more support, these might not be the best choice.
These are also available in men's sizing, which goes up to a size 14.
Price at time of publish: $135
Size Range: Women’s 5-11; men’s 8-14 | Material: FSC-certified Tencel Lyocell upper, sugarcane-based green EVA midsole, natural rubber outsole, castor bean oil-based insole foam, ZQ merino wool heel lining | Fit: True to Size | Colors: Medium Gray, Natural Black, Blizzard, Lux Purple, and more
Someone who prefers a ready-to-wear walking shoe with added support
Someone that needs shoes with laces for increased stability
Made for walking, these Vionic sneakers are worth moving to the top of your wishlist if you are looking for a hassle-free pair of slip-on women's shoes. After all, not only do they ditch the shoelaces, but they also provide plenty of stability in the rearfoot, good arch support in the midfoot, and cushioning in the forefoot, says Dr. Dave Candy, PT, DPT, OCS, ATC, CMTPT, FAAOMPT. Despite their convenient slip-on design, “this shoe still provides enough support to help control foot motion while walking,” adds Dr. Candy. What’s more, it is also available in three colors, including a trendy jade shade.
Price at time of publish: $100
Size Range: Women’s 6-10 | Material: Textile and man-made upper, cushioned midsole, textile-covered EVA orthotic insole, EVA footbed, rubber outsole | Fit: True to size | Colors: Charcoal, Black, Jade
Someone with bunions looking for a budget-friendly walking shoe that's lightweight and supportive enough for shorter walks
Those needing a walking shoe that offers more stability or better geared for long distances
Not only is this is one reviewer-approved shoe (it currently has an average 4.3/5 star rating with over 7,000 reviews), it earned high marks during our own testing, too. When walking in these sneakers, we found them to be impressively lightweight and bouncy with very smooth transition between steps. Because of their generous width, these would be great for anyone with bunions; they're also a good choice for those with arthritis in their big toe since these are super bendy everywhere except the sole around the toe box. However, there is one thing to note: There isn't as much cushioning in the ball of the foot as we would like, making these better suited for short walks on even terrain versus long distance walks.
Overall. this Ryka sneaker helps you stay within budget without sacrificing support, says double board-certified podiatrist Dr. Anne M. Sharkey, DPM. “These shoes offer both comfort and support — walking shoes should offer flexibility at the toes with stability to the midsole and heel,” she tells PEOPLE.
Price at time of publish: $100
Size Range: Women’s 5-12 | Material: Breathable engineered mesh, soft Lycra-lined tongue collar with built-in cushion, eight-piece rubber sole | Fit: True to size | Colors: Citadel Blue, Black, Black Multi, Brilliant White, and more
Someone wanting a cushioned, breathable, and supportive walking shoe (that's also trendy)
Someone looking shoes with more color options
If you are looking for a pair of walking shoes built to last, splurging on a good pair of walking shoes is a good idea. While there are many luxury brands to look into, New Balance (which has been making shoes for decades) is a great brand to stick with, according to Dr. Pinker.
Sure, New Balance has a variety of shoes to choose from, but if you are looking for a pair that can handle just about everything, this is the shoe to snag. “While this is a running sneaker, it is excellent for walkers,” says Dr. Pinker. “It provides cushioning, shock absorption, a stable heel counter, and a mesh design in the toe box. These features help prevent excessive moisture buildup and reduce the onset of Athlete's foot fungus (tinea pedis), toenail fungus (onychomycosis), and plantar warts.”
The popular style is also available for men.
Price at time of publish: $200
Size Range: Women’s 5-13; men’s 6-16 | Material: Abzorb midsole, premium suede/mesh upper, Acteva cushioning, full-length rubber outsole | Fit: True to size | Colors: Grey
Someone who wants waterproof winter shoes that are lightweight and cushioned
Walkers needing shoes that address specific foot issues
If you are looking for walking shoes that’ll help you survive the worst of winter, look no further — this pair is lightweight and cushioned, making them perfect for long walks in the snow or even for use indoors, says MacPherson. “They are also waterproof and look great with any comfortable outfit,” she tells PEOPLE. Aside from waterproof protection, these shoes also prioritize support, as their EVA midsoles offer the right amount of cushioning and support. “EVA midsoles provide cushioning without being too soft, so that you stay supported, improving foot health,” MacPherson adds.
Price at time of publish: $149
Size Range: Women’s 5-11 | Material: 100% recycled synthetic insulation, faux fur top collar, OrthoLite sock liner, EVA midsole, rubber wrapping in the toe, rubber outsole | Fit: Size up for extra comfort | Colors: Black/Gardenia White, Gardenia White/Silver Gray, and more
Someone with wider feet who needs a wide toe box and thick cushioning
Anyone looking for a pair of lightweight walking shoes
With four width sizes (including wide and extra wide), thick cushioning, plus a handy heel cup, this walking shoe is essential for those with wider feet, according to Liu. “This shoe has a wide toe box, which provides extra room for wide feet,” she tells PEOPLE. “Sometimes, wider shoes can cause slippage, but this shoe has a heel cup that prevents your heel from slipping out on walks,” she tells PEOPLE. During our tests, we found this to be true; these sneakers fit snugly without feeling constricting, and they indeed did cup the feet perfectly without leaving any room on the sides for the feet to slide around.
But that’s not all. Because the midsole of this walking shoe has soft and thick cushioning, Liu suggests that it helps protect feet from over-pronation — which occurs when your feet roll towards the inside as you walk. They are heavier than many other walking shoes we tested (and not at all breathable), but they did offer great stability and support, making them great for colder climates or for anyone who needs that extra support at a slower walking pace. While these shoes may be too bulky for some, it’s still a must-see pair for those who could benefit from the extra room.
These are also available in men's sizes 7 to 15.
Price at time of publish: $130
Size Range: Women’s 5-12; men's 7-15 | Material: Leather upper, extended progressive diagonal rollbar, BioMoGo DNA cushioning, slip-resistant sole | Fit: Buy a half size up from your true size | Colors: Grey/Citron, Dark Grey/Orange
Walkers with relatively wide feet who are looking for fairly responsive, comfortable shoes at a decent price
People with achilees tendonitis, plantar fasciitis, or narrow feet
We found these Nike sneakers to be great shoes for walking on either standard or folding treadmills due to their responsiveness and comfort. Because of the thick, durable soles, we expect these to endure lots and lots of steps before needing to be replaced. The cushioning was appealing because it was soft yet still provided adequate support, and they also offered a good amount of responsiveness — although they definitely weren't the bounciest shoe we tested. While available in both wide and regular versions, even the regular versions will feel wide for those with narrower feet, making these a better choice for anyone needing wider walking shoes. They run a bit large, too, so we recommend buying a half size down.
You can also shop the Pegasus 39 in women's sizes, which also come in wide widths.
Price at time of publish: $140
Size Range: Women’s 5-12 (regular, wide); Men's 6-18 | Material: Removable cushioned insole, synthetic and textile upper and lining, rubber sole | Fit: Runs large, buy a half size down | Colors: Phantom/Summit White/Cerulean/Psychic Purple, Dark Smoke Grey/Olive Grey/Metallic Silver/Metallic Copper, and more
Someone who needs a shoe that keeps feet in an optimal position
Those who want to break into shoes quickly (zero-drop shoes require time to adjust)
Zero-drop walking shoes don’t have any heels, so they have the added benefit of providing exceptional cushioning and coverage while keeping feet in an optimal position, explains licensed pilates instructor and physical therapist Dr. Autumn Hanson, PT. With this in mind, she suggests that this zero-drop shoe is perfect for those living with plantar fasciitis, because it reduces abnormal stress on the plantar fascia and the foot.
“These shoes have wide-toe boxes (which allows the toes to wiggle and move more naturally) that are helpful when trying to remain active with plantar fasciitis," Dr. Hanson says. “Since they have no heels, they are also just a great option for anyone looking to strengthen their feet.” You can also easily slip these zero-drop shoes into the toe cages of an indoor cycling bike.
We recommend buying a half size up from your normal shoe size, both in men's and women's sizing.
Price at time of publish: $130
Size Range: Women’s 5.5-12; men's 7-15 | Material: 6-millimeter contour footbed insole, Altra Ego with InnerFlex midsole, moderate cushioning, sock-like engineered knit upper, FootPod outsole | Fit: Runs small, buy a half size up | Colors: Black, Blue, Gray/Orange, Lime/Black, Gray/Teal, and more
Those needing a breathable pair of walking shoes for warmer climates
Anyone who underpronates or needs a walking shoe for year-round wear
If you're trying to avoid hot and sweaty feet while out walking, we recommend the Asics GT-2000 10 for its breathable upper and lightweight design that won't make you feel overheated. According to our tests, we felt these sneakers fit well, providing enough tightness and support without being constricting. The breathable mesh upper is made from 30 percent recycled polyester, feels ultra-lightweight, helping keep your feet temperature regulated. While walking and running on the treadmill with these, we experienced no irritation or blisters and found they offered a stable, supportive grip on our feet. They're designed for anyone with either neutral or overpronated strides.
This Asics style is also available in both men's and women's sizing.
Price at time of publish: $68
Size Range: Women’s 5.5-12; men's 6-17 | Material: Engineered knit upper, Flytefoam Propel cushioning, rubber sole | Fit: True to size | Colors: White/Black, Mako Blue/Shocking Orange, Lake Drive/White, Electric Blue/White, Metropolis/Electric Red, and more
People with neutral feet that need comfortable, affordable shoes for walking on paved surfaces
Anyone who under- or overpronates when walking or those with flat feet
For those with neutral pronation and average width feet, you can't go wrong with the comfort (and price point) of the Asics Gel-Excite 9. We both ran and walked in these sneakers and found them to be a truly seamless fit, feeling lightweight and comfortable yet secure and sturdy (no blisters!). They are great for walking on paved roads and sidewalks and remained pretty bouncy and responsive across different speeds and stride lengths. Overall, we'd recommend these to anyone with normal arches, width, and pronation that also doesn't have any foot-specific conditions or restrictions.
The Gel-Excite 9 is available in both men's and women's sizing.
Price at time of publish: $75
Size Range: Women’s 5-12; men's 6-15 | Material: Amplifoam cushioning, rearfoot Gel technology, engineered jacquard mesh upper, Ortholite sockliner, rubber sole | Fit: True to size | Colors: Black/Carrier Grey, Black/White, Safety Yellow/Black, Electric Red/Black, Island Blue/Sun Peach, and more
Someone who needs a technical athletic walking shoe with plenty of ankle support at an affordable price point
Anyone who prefers a heavily cushioned shoe or is looking for a a pair more suited for trail walking
With excellent arch support, the right amount of cushioned comfort, and durability, this pair of walking shoes supports your ankles with each step, says Heimann. “This is a great technical athletic shoe for stability and cushioning,” she tells PEOPLE.
Besides serving up support, Heimann says this pair has the edge of being made by a company with a proven record of producing high-quality shoes that address needs. “This brand has been designing shoes for a long time (Saucony originated in 1898),” Heimann adds. “This robust history gives them a leg up on meeting the demands of their customers.”
The same style is available in men's sizing, too.
Price at time of publish: $75
Size Range: Women's 5-12; men's 7-14 | Material: Versarun cushioning, segmented rubber outsoles, breathable mesh upper | Fit: True to size | Colors: Dark Gray/Orange, Gray/Citron, White/Green/Coral, and more
Anyone that needs a shoe with a durable sole, ample support, and cushioning
Someone that needs a wider pair of walking shoes
“Brooks shoes are good for daily wear because they offer a versatile traction sole that makes them durable and ideal for a variety of surfaces,” Bhowani-McSorley explains. “Additionally, their construction provides ample support and cushioning, perfect for people who tend to walk long distances or who have joint pain.” The Brooks Ghost 14 offers support and has a great grip, making it a great choice for year-round wear, too. “If you're walking around outside in the winter and worried about slipping, this is a great option,” she adds.
The Brooks Ghost 14 is also available in women's sizing in over 14 color options.
Price at time of publish: $180
Size Range: Women’s 5-13; men's 7-15 | Material: 100% DNA Loft cushioning, recycled upper, soft midsole, 3D fit print upper | Fit: True to size | Colors: Black/Black/Ebony, Grey/Titan/Maize, Red/Tomato/Black, Nightlife/Black, Alloy/Primer Grey/Oyster, and more
Our top-rated pair of walking shoes is the Hoka Bondi 8. For $165, it features top-notch cushioning and a grippy sole that handles a variety of surfaces. And with several color choices and fit options to work with, there’s a fit for every foot.
According to Dr. Kusinas, most people do not need shoes specifically for walking. You can wear a pair of comfortable sandals, for example, for walking as long as it has the appropriate arch support and padding. Still, a great walking shoe should allow the foot to function as naturally as possible while adding just the amount of support and cushioning when necessary, says Dr. Kuizinas.
“As most walking shoes cost within the $100 to $200 range, investing in a quality walking shoe is certainly a good idea in terms of quality and longevity,” says Dr. Kuizinas. However, you don’t necessarily have to break the bank for a good pair, as many budget walking shoe options are available with the same level of functionality as their costlier counterparts. “At the end of the day, our feet do not need technology to function well,” she adds.
Courtney Leiva is a contributing commerce writer for PEOPLE and has written for publications such as The Daily Beast, Buzzfeed, HuffPost, and more. When researching the best walking shoes, Courtney spoke with physical therapists, board-certified podiatrists, fitness experts, and performance specialists to learn more about what defines a good walking shoe and what standout features to look out for as you shop. She also conducted her own research, looking at walking shoe styles and details, and analyzing durability, fit, and function.
PEOPLE's Senior Commerce Editor Erika Reals updated this article to include testing insights as well as additional PEOPLE Tested recommendations. She has over five years of experience in writing and editing shopping content, specifically in the style category. She gets in her steps via walks in Central Park and by using an under-desk treadmill in her home office.
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