Daily walks have so many long-term benefits, including boosted immune function, ease of joint pain and a tamer sweet tooth — who knew! If you're hoping to make walking a regular part of your routine, you should have the right support for your feet.
However, finding the perfect pairs of walking shoes is no walk in the park. That's why Shop TODAY tested a plethora of sneakers in anticipation for our first-ever Sneaker Awards. Plus, we spoke with experts about what to look for in the best walking shoes.
Here we've rounded up expert favorites and award-winning picks from our very own Shop TODAY Sneaker Awards and our previous Travel Gear Awards to help you find the right pair. So, what are you waiting for? Get busy shopping so you can get out there and get your steps in!
Best men's budget-friendly$46.99$51.99
Shop TODAY Sneaker Awards winners
Slow Man Walking Shoes Sock Sneakers
Award: Best budget-friendly walking shoe | Sizes: 5.5-11 | Colors: 18 | Features: Perforated arch for ventilation and lightweight
Shop TODAY contributor Katie Jackson loved this pair of affordable kicks so much that she wrote a whole article about them. Some highlights include, "When I’m wearing these shoes, though, my feet are so comfortable that I often forget to take them off. For starters, because the mesh feels like a thick pair of socks, I don’t always wear socks with them."
She went on to elaborate, "Sometimes, I even think of them as my socks and forget I’m wearing shoes altogether." And for under $40, this pair will save you a pretty penny and keep your feet comfy.
NORTIV8 ActiveFloat Men's Comfortable Lightweight Running Shoes
Award: Best men's budget-friendly walking shoe | Sizes: 7.5-13 | Colors: 7 | Features: Shock absorption, slip resistance and breathability
This award winner also won't break the bank. Our tester noted how little wear and tear this pair had even after five months of constant use. On their feet often walking and teaching, this pair got our official testing seal of approval with its cushiony foot bed and shock absorption technology.
Skechers Go Walk Arch Fit 2.0
Award: Best orthopedic walking shoe | Sizes: 5.5-11 | Colors: 2 | Features: Laceless plush knit upper, removable insole and lightweight cushioning
Dr. Priya Parthasarathy, a board-certified podiatrist based in Maryland, highly suggests the Skechers arch fit line which is supportive and has the Seal of Acceptance by the American Podiatric Medical Associated (APMA).
Better yet, this lightweight pick features a removable insole to “help mold to your foot to reduce shock and increase weight dispersion,” according to the brand.
New Balance 574 Core Sneaker
Award: Best overall walking shoe | Sizes: 5-12 | Colors: 5 | Features: Midsole cushioning and adjustable lace closures
Associate editor Shannon Garlin will talk about this pair of New Balances any chance she gets. After wearing them on a multi-day Disney trip (clocking over 15,000 steps!), she says these are the most comfortable shoes she's ever worn.
"My back normally starts hurting and my feet begin to throb around midday, but thanks to these shoes, I was going strong at 7 p.m.! I didn’t have those familiar pains at all. (My mother, who was wearing a simple tennis shoe, was not so lucky)," says Garlin.
"These sneakers saved my feet and provided so much support and comfort for an exhausting (but fun!) and active day on my feet, I could almost feel the shock absorption taking place."
Orthofeet Verve Women’s Tie-Less Sneakers
Award: Most customizable walking shoes | Sizes: 5-12 | Colors: 1 | Features: Tie-less closure, adjustable heel strap and wide toe-box
Dr. Anne Sharkey, a double board-certified podiatrist in Austin, Texas, recommends these sporty sneakers for their extra depth which easily accommodates orthotics.
She explains that these walking shoes are adjustable for a customizable fit and feature a cushioned sole, wide toe box and seam-free interior, which is great for diabetics.
Vivaia Unisex Sneaker Sliders (Urban) - Mesh
Award: Best slip-on walking shoes | Sizes: 5-13.5 | Colors: 20+ | Features: Machine-washable, water-repellent and reinforced heel
"I’ve owned these shoes for about a year, and they’re my most worn pair at this point. Longevity so far has been superb, they feel great, are durable and insanely comfortable," says commerce writer Danielle Murphy.
While she opted for the sparkly white pair which can get dirty quickly, these are machine-washable so you can easily clean them in your next load of laundry.
"They’re a slip-on shoe with laces, so you only have to tie them once. I never have trouble putting them on hands-free because they feature a reinforced heel (aka, it won’t collapse) and the tongue doesn’t move," continues Murphy.
Allbirds Tree Dasher Relay
Award: Best walking shoe for narrow feet | Sizes: 5-11 | Colors: 14 | Features: Cushioned midsole and stretch one-piece upper
This slip-on version of the brand’s Tree Dasher shoe was previously recommended to us by Dr. Ashley Lee, a podiatrist in Hinsdale, Illinois. So, if you always seem to be running out the door in a hurry, this pair will become to your new go-to.
She shared that they are a good choice for those with narrow feet. Plus, she added that they’re breathable and lightweight, which are important features that we're always looking for in a pair of walking shoes.
Oofos Oomg Eezee Low Shoe
Award: Best walking shoe for plantar fasciitis | Sizes: 5-12 | Colors: 3 | Features: Shock absorption and 4-way stretch material
If you're in the market for a pair of sneaker that offers both arch support and a cushioned footbed, then look no further than this winner from Oofos. Our team loves the brand's recovery slides, so these were a no-brainer to include in our Sneaker Awards.
Commerce writer Jannely Espinal loves that these help your feet relax after any strenuous activity. Designed with the brand's signature cushioned technology, she recommends these for those who are constantly on their feet or walk long distances.
Vionic Walk Max Lace Up Sneaker
Award: Best splurge walking shoe | Sizes: 5-13 | Colors: 10 | Features: Lightweight midsole, water-repellent upper and moisture control insole
Last but surely not least is our favorite splurge pair of walking shoes. Editorial assistant Annie Shigo had nothing but amazing things to say about this cushiony pair from Vionic. She appreciates how the shoes foam bottoms give her a little extra bounce with every step she takes.
"They're super comfy! I have really easily blistered feet so anytime a sneaker feels weird I'm in immediate pain, but not with this pair. These are super cushiony and the arch support is great for uneven terrain," said Shigo.
More Shop TODAY award winners
Budget-friendly kicks: NORTIV 8 Cloud Harmony Athleisure Sneakers
Award: Best budget walking shoe | Sizes: 6-11 | Colors: 4 | Features: Shock absorption, reinforced heel and breathable mesh construction
Reviewers agreed that these shoes were lightweight, stylish and comfortable for shorter walks no more than six miles. Some reported feeling sore feet after long days/longer walks. Previous NBC Page Laura Millar says they “didn’t need breaking in,” which is a rare feat for shoes.
Travel in style: Dr. Scholl's Jetset Loafer
Award: Best dressy walking shoe | Sizes: 6-11 | Colors: 12 | Features: Sustainable materials and soft wedge heel
When you're spending a long day on your feet but typical walking shoes won't do, this pair from Dr. Scholl's will keep your tootsies comfy. According to the brand, it's crafted with an anti-microbial, anti-odor foam insole, making it perfect for summer.
Commute easily: Skechers Go Walk Joy Sneaker
Award: Start TODAY x Shop TODAY Wellness Awards 2023 Best for Commuting | Sizes: 5-13 (with narrow and wide widths available) | Colors: 26 | Features: Machine-washable, high-rebound cushion and breathable mesh construction
Shoppers have raved about how comfortable and lightweight these shoes from Skechers are. Commerce designer Olivia Ott wore them for errand runs, to work and around the house and was pleased with how they felt on her feet.
“The support on the soles feels strong and comfortable, and the material on top is nice and breathable,” she says.
Timeless style: Reebok Princess Sneaker
Award: Start TODAY x Shop TODAY Wellness Awards 2023 Best Budget | Sizes: 5-12 (with wide widths available) | Colors: 30 | Features: Moisture-absorbing terry lining and leather upper
For people who need a shoe with enough support to get through a long walk but look sleek enough to wear with dress slacks, this is it. While a more breathable, flexible shoe works better for everyday workouts, these are perfect if you walk a lot while commuting to and from work and want to look stylish on the go!
“I love the style and shape of the overall sneaker,” associate producer Alexa Arent says, adding that they may need to be broken in a bit for a looser fit. “They were easy to dress up/down and were comfortable throughout the day.”
Associate editor Lauren Witonsky adds that these shoes are comfortable right out of the box. “I’ve never gotten a blister or sore feet, even when doing miles of walking around Spain in them,” she says. “Plus, the beauty of white sneakers is that you can easily dress them up or down.”
Trainers watch out: New Balance 608 V5 Cross Trainer
Award: Start TODAY x Shop TODAY Wellness Awards 2023 Best Overall | Sizes: 5-12 (with narrow and wide widths available | Colors: 3 | Features: Durable rubber outsole and suede and mesh upper
These bestselling New Balance trainers promise to provide all-day comfort and stability. They are designed with a dual-density collar that uses both a soft foam against the foot for cushioning and a more dense foam for support, the brand says.
“It’s rare for me to find a sneaker that I don’t have to break in, but these kicks delivered comfortable, supportive strides almost immediately,” senior editor Jess Bender says. “While I can rave about their arch support for ages, the wider toe box and deep heel cup minimizes any discomfort I might feel after hours on my feet.”
Slip on and off: Rothy’s The Original Slip On Sneaker
Award: Best splurge walking shoe | Sizes: 5-13 | Colors: 10 | Features: Machine washable and soft, plush footbed
Each tester raved about these slip-on sneakers, calling them comfortable enough to wear all day long. “I struggle with my feet sweating during the summer and this fabric seems to make that problem go away. It is airy and soft against the foot,” shares former SEO intern Domonique Tolliver.
Flexibility is trendy: Rothy’s The Point
Award: Start TODAY x Shop TODAY Wellness Awards 2023 Best for Work | Sizes: 5-13 | Colors: 8 | Features: Comfortable insoles and durable outsoles
Need shoes that you can wear to work and then for a walk on your lunch break? These stylish flats earned praise from reviewers who appreciated that they are easy to clean and commuter-friendly.
“They are the perfect office shoe, in my opinion and comfortable enough for my walking-heavy commute, too,” senior partnerships editor Francesca Cocchi Zabloudil said. “They also wash well which is great especially for the lighter colors that can get dirty somewhat easily.”
Support galore: Brooks Addiction Walker 2
Award: Start TODAY x Shop TODAY Wellness Awards 2023 Best Support | Sizes: 5-12 (narrow, medium, wide and extra-wide widths available) | Colors: 2 | Features: Slip resistant and APMA Seal of Acceptance
On a trek along the West Side Highway from Chelsea all the way to Seaport, photo editor Vivian Le says these shoes felt “super well built and sturdy.”
According to the brand, they’re designed with soft cushioning, a slip-resistant outsole and max support for road running. Perkins also says they're her favorite overall walking shoe.
More expert and editor-recommended walking shoes for women
Watch your posture: Saucony Women’s Cohesion 13 Running Shoe
Sizes: 5-12 (with wide widths available) | Colors: 14
Need a new pair of walking shoes but don't have a lot to spend? Try Saucony's Cohesion 13 shoes.
"These walking shoes are spacious, comfortable, they provide excellent ankle and arch support, and best of all they only cost under $55," Dr. Cunha says.
Glide effortlessly: Altra Escalante 3
Sizes: 5.5-12 | Colors: 8
Parthasarathy recommends this pair of Altra sneakers for people with wide feet because they have a naturally wide toe box and a supportive structure that give your toes room to spread out. The upper fabric is light and breathable for intense walks or running errands.
For the city girl: Lululemon Cityverse Sneaker
Sizes: 5-12 | Colors: 5
Bender locked over 12,000 steps in these sneakers one day and she says, “They wear comfortably, look flattering with about every kind of outfit and the insole perfectly hugs my arches.”
“Clocking about 80 miles in them around New York City and New Jersey so far, irritation is extremely minimal. Compared to other walking shoes that I’ve worn that require more time to break in, that’s kind of a win for me,” adds Bender.
Lightweight in every inch: Brooks Ghost 16
Sizes: 5-13 | Colors: 11
Associate editor Allie Wise recently tested this pair and fell in love. “As a short girl, I was looking for a pair of sneakers that were comfortable but also had a little added height. The moment I put these on, I knew they were going to be my new go-to walking shoes. They are lightweight, stylish and most importantly, don’t irritate my feet. Highly recommend for my fellow short girls!”
Watch out for bunions: Hoka Clifton 9
Sizes: 5-12 (with regular and wide widths available) | Colors: 21
If you have bunions or wide feet, Hoka has got you covered. Cunha says these shoes have a wide and spacious toe-box to accommodate a wide foot.
While they run wide, you can also order them in a wide width as well for some extra room around your toes. The lightweight cushioning in the midsole also provides all day comfort.
How to pick the best walking shoe
When you’re walking, the critical muscles and tendons around the ankle require the most support. The peroneal tendons (on the outside of the ankle) help stabilize the ankle and prevent the foot from “rolling in” on uneven surfaces, says Illinois Bone & Joint Institute surgeon Dr. Anand Vora.
“Women especially want to be sure to accommodate the forefoot (the toe area) and to stabilize the hindfoot and ankle with secure lacing,” Vora notes.
So, how do you choose a walking shoe with enough support in all the right places? In general, the choice boils down to fit and comfort. “You do not want to choose a shoe that is too constricting or doesn’t allow your foot to breathe,” says Dr. Kevin Kinney, an Atlanta-based chiropractor. Mesh and canvas shoes seem to be the most popular choices for comfort, breathability and weight.
Here are some other factors to consider when shopping:
Arch Support
In order to provide arches with necessary reinforcement, proper arch support is essential for those with flat feet in order to help reduce pain and suffering, foot and ankle surgeon Dr. Miguel Cunha says.
However, looking for shoes that fit your unique foot form and requirements with integrated arch support is the key to avoiding arch pain. Our experts say shoes with arch support tend to lessen the pressure on the ligaments and tendons in the foot and aids in the equal distribution of weight.
Sneaker width
Your foot should naturally splay out even when you’re wearing shoes. If you have flat feet, having a shoe with more space in the toe box and midfoot area is best.
“This can lessen pain, blisters and the emergence of other foot problems. Most of the problems that occur with our feet — particularly for women, and often for runners — are because our shoes don’t have a wide enough forefoot,” Cunha says.
“Definitely try on the shoe, as it should feel comfortable right away,” double board-certified podiatrist Dr. Chanel Perkins suggests. “The shoe should also feel roomy enough to allow wiggle room for your toes, but never too loose.”
To see if your shoe is wide enough, Cunha suggests tracing your foot onto a piece of paper at the end of the day when your feet are most swollen and place the shoe over the tracing of the foot. If the tracing of the foot is external to the edges of the shoe, then you know that your shoes are too narrow.
Cushioning
Our experts say cushioning is necessary as it reduces the impact when you walk. Having extra cushioning in the heel and midsole sections can help provide support to the lower legs and feet.
“The shoe should feel comfortable from the moment you put it on, with no areas of pressure or discomfort,” podiatrist Dr. Janine Ferrigno-Taddeo says.
Maryland-based podiatrist Dr. Priya Parthasarathy says the ideal shoe also has a removable, supportive insole.
Durability
Your sole strength can make or break a walking shoe (literally). In order to tell if the shoe is rigid enough, Cunha suggests trying to bend the shoe in half.
“You shouldn’t be able to. The shank is the actual structure of the shoe and should be rigid to hold up and support the arch,” he says.
How we chose
For award winners, we sorted through hundreds of new launches, editor recommendations, trending products flooding our social media pages and tried and true products to curate a list of travel items worth reviewing.
We then tried the products in our studios, putting them through practical experiments to see if they meet requirements when it comes to durability, function and quality for travel gear. Finally, our panel of experts reviewed some of our winners and gave feedback based on their expertise.
We also consulted experts and editors for their recommendations for the best walking shoes.
Meet our experts
- Dr. Miguel Cunha is a foot and ankle surgeon based in New York City. Dr. Cunha has experience in a wide array of foot and ankle conditions, including reconstructive surgery.
- Dr. Kevin Kinney is an Atlanta-based chiropractor. He works with patients to reduce chronic pain and neurological conditions while decreasing their dependency on medications and other drugs.
- Dr. Priya Parthasarathy is a Maryland based podiatrist. She is board-certified by the American Board of Podiatric Medicine.
- Dr. Chanel Perkins is a double board-certified podiatrist based in Galveston, Texas. Dr. Perkins specializes in diabetic foot care, ingrown toenails, fungal toenails and more.
- Dr. Janine Ferrigno-Taddeo is a New Jersey based podiatrist. She specializes in diabetic foot care and surgery at Millburn Podiatry Group. Dr. Janine Ferrigno-Taddeo is also a medical consultant at Aetrex.
- Dr. Anand Vora is a board-certified orthopedic surgeon at the Illinois Bone & Joint Institute. He specializes foot and ankle conditions, including arthritis, reconstructive procedures and more.
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