We often overlook the strain that regular long walks can place on our bodies, unlike with more intense sports. That is, until you return from a stroll with blisters, aching arches or stiff joints.
Choosing good walking shoes matters, and investing a little can significantly improve how comfortable — and pain-free — your walks feel.
In particular, you should seek flexibility, cushioning and stability in a pair of walking shoes, says Dr. Jeffrey Hurless, a board-certified podiatrist, foot surgeon and medical director of Healthy Feet Store.
“These shoes are typically a touch heavier than running shoes to enhance stability,” he added.
So how can you distinguish a quality walking shoe from the latest sneaker trend? We consulted specialists to create this guide. Below are seven top-rated walking shoes available now that won’t empty your wallet.
- Best for daily walkers: Propét Tour Knit
- Best for all weather: Vionic Walker
- Best for all terrain: Xero Shoes TerraFlex
- Best for arch support: Propét TravelActiv
- Best for wide feet: Propét Stability X
- Best for bad knees: ASICS Gel-Venture 8
- Best slip-on: Lem’s Drifter
Best Walking Shoe for Daily Walkers
Shoe: Propét Tour Knit
Price: $99
Why they’re the best: For a versatile shoe suited to everyday walks, Derek Roach, owner of Flow Feet, favors the Propét Tour Knit.
“This model offers a 10 mm heel-to-toe drop that encourages forward motion with each step,” Roach explained. “The engineered knit uppers boost breathability and help keep the interior fresh even with frequent use. Its insole uses an Ortholite X25™ Open Cell foam insert that stacks cushioning layers for comfort during long outings or vigorous activity.”
Best Walking Shoe for All Weather
Shoe: Vionic Walker
Price: $110
Why they’re the best: No matter the conditions you walk in, the robust build and enduring comfort of the Vionic Walker make it a reliable choice.
“These are excellent for active people seeking a shoe that provides comfort, stability and water resistance for lengthy walks or gym sessions,” Hurless noted. “The shoe combines a 100% breathable polyester mesh lining with a water-resistant full grain leather upper.”
Best Walking Shoe for All Terrain
Shoe: Xero Shoes TerraFlex
Price: $110
Why they’re the best: For walkers who explore varied landscapes, board-certified podiatrist Dr. Alissa Kuizinas recommends the Xero Shoes TerraFlex.
“These excel as all-terrain footwear,” Kuizinas said. “They handle diverse surfaces thanks to the tread design, while preserving a zero-drop, roomy toe box that lets the foot act naturally.”
Best Walking Shoe for Bad Knees
Shoe: ASICS Gel-Venture 8
Price: $60
Why they’re the best: Knee pain is a frequent issue for regular walkers. The ASICS Gel-Venture 8 is engineered with features that specifically help those with troublesome knees.
“This shoe is made to assist people who experience common knee conditions like patellar tendinitis (jumper’s knee) and chondromalacia (cartilage wear that can lead to pain and instability),” said Dr. Daniel Boyer of Farr Institute. “It provides a secure, adjustable fit at the instep that can be tightened or loosened as necessary, plus outsole grooves that enhance traction and longevity.”
Best Walking Shoe for Wide Feet
Shoe: Propét Stability X
Price: $90
Why they’re the best: Finding comfortable footwear for wide feet can be challenging. Luckily, the Propét Stability X incorporates clever features that make long walks far more pleasant for those with broader feet.
“The Stability X includes two layers of removable insoles to modify the shoe’s depth so your foot sits lower, giving a roomier toe box fit,” Roach said. “This style comes in widths up to XXW to accommodate wider feet.”
Best Walking Shoe for Arch Support
Shoe: Propét TravelActiv
Price: $75
Why they’re the best: Troubled by weak arches? Dr. Hurless endorses the Propét TravelActiv for its blend of comfort, practicality and looks.
“The EVA-cushioned insole delivers enduring arch support, and the footbed is fully removable if you prefer to insert your custom orthotics,” Hurless explained. “These walking shoes present solid traction, are lightweight and deliver excellent support.”
Best Slip-On Walking Shoe
Shoe: Lem’s Drifter
Price: $95
Why they’re the best: If you dislike fiddling with laces, these popular slip-on walkers come recommended by Dr. Kuizinas.
“The Lem’s Drifter can be worn with or without the heel portion, making it a versatile, convertible pick,” Kuizinas said. “The broad, foot-shaped toe box and flexible outsole support a natural gait while providing enough cushioning to keep feet comfortable on extended walks.”
Contributor Olivia Hart frequently covers topics on finance, housing and lifestyle for Savinly.
