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Whether you're prepping to get out for a morning dog walk or you need something comfortable and supportive for a long day at work, the right pair of shoes can ease your daily routine and reduce tiredness and foot pain.
Our testers and editors walked over 300,000 steps on various surfaces and activities. Next, our laboratory team of engineers cut open every pair to measure, according to the World Athletics guidelines, which are standardized in a way that manufacturer claims aren't.
Our male and female testers agreed that the Hoka Transport is a top-performing walking shoe. It offers a great combination of comfort, support, and traction. And if you're looking for a shoe that allows for natural toe splay, you should check out the Altra Experience Flow, which has a comfortably wide toe box and proved a versatile workhorse in our testing.
If you walk mostly on trails, you'll want to check out our trail running shoe and our hiking shoe reviews. Many also use running shoes for daily walking and work shoes.
Editor's Note: This review was updated on January 28, 2025, with fresh testing results of all the latest walking shoes available in 2025.
The Altra Experience Flow quickly became a testing favorite with the mix of cushion, support, and wide toe box with a natural feel. From the top down, the shoe is an impressive mixture of quality and function. The flexible mesh upper holds the foot snugly in place, is reinforced in high-wear areas, and provides good breathability. Our lead tester, Travis Reddinger noted, “I wore these shoes for hours on end and my feet were happy the entire time. The toe box allowed my toes to spread naturally, and the heel cup kept my foot secure.” A padded tongue prevents lace bite, while additional padding in the heel cup creates a perfect snug fit. We really enjoyed the compression molded EVA foam midsole, which absorbs plenty of impact, and the four-millimeter drop with rocker shape transitions effortlessly from heel impact to toe-off. Traction is impressive on all surfaces thanks to the rubber-covered sole with alternating traction bars. The Altra Experience Flow fits true to size, laces up easily, and requires no break-in period for a perfect fit.
As nice as the Experience Flow may be, there are some potential drawbacks. Listed as a mid-cushion shoe it may not have enough impact absorption for users who require a higher stack. The roomy toe box may be another drawback for some users who have a narrow foot or feel it is too wide. Some may find the low drop design requires an adjustment period and causes discomfort or gait changes. If you are considering a walking shoe but want a more traditional drop height, the Hoka Transport provides great support with a 9mm drop. We think the Experience Flow has a lot of great features and is one of our favorites, but it may not be for everyone. If you are looking for a shoe with a lot more cushion for impact absorption the Brooks Ghost Max 2 may be a better choice. They have a very plush feel and thick sole to eat up all those harsh landings.
The Hoka Transport upends expectations by delivering a more refined, less maximalist approach to the walking shoe. During our extensive testing, which included over 10,000 steps across varied terrain, this shoe impressed us with its Goldilocks-level cushioning - substantial enough for comfort but never feeling overly plush. Mallory Paige, our lead tester, noted, “From the moment I slipped on the Transport, I noticed its departure from Hoka's typically extra-plush feel. During my 10,000-step walking test, these shoes demonstrated exceptional comfort without requiring any break-in period.” The Vibram EcoStep Natural outsole proved to be a standout feature, consistently delivering excellent grip across surfaces. In our controlled testing, it scored remarkably well, with some of the highest traction scores in our lineup. We particularly appreciated the quick-toggle lacing system, which offers more adjustability than the elastic laces found on other shoes we've tested while maintaining similar convenience. The rigid sole structure provides exceptional stability without feeling clunky. This shoe weighs in at 8.92 ounces in our measurements, placing it in the middle of our test group - substantially lighter than maximalist options but not quite as featherweight as the 5.16-ounce Skechers GO WALK Joy.
While the Transport excels in most areas, its price tag places it among the premium options in our test lineup. Additionally, runners familiar with Hoka's typically plush offerings might find the Transport's more balanced approach surprisingly firm. Those seeking maximum cushioning should consider the Brooks Ghost Max 2 instead, which offers more padding while maintaining similar stability. However, for urban walkers seeking a versatile shoe that can handle everything from sidewalks to light trails, the Transport stands out. The combination of precise fit adjustment, stable support, and class-leading traction makes it an exceptional daily walking companion. It's a refreshing reminder that sometimes less is more, even from a brand known for maximalist designs. Its eco-conscious construction - featuring 90% oil-free ingredients in the outsole and recycled materials throughout - adds appeal for environmentally conscious consumers without compromising performance.
During the testing process, the On Cloud 5 impressed us with the blend of comfort, support, and convenience in a stylish, sleek package. This agile shoe weighs in at 9.23 ounces (per US 10.5) and provides a well-ventilated antimicrobial mesh upper with elastic laces for quick on-and-off action. The CloudTec cushioning saves weight and masterfully absorbs impact while blasting through the city, providing more than enough support for all-day use. Travis Reddinger, our lead tester, said, “The cushioning feels firmer than shoes with large foam midsoles, so don't expect an overly plush feel with these. However, I appreciated this while spending many hours on my feet. During my tests, these proved to have a well-balanced system that kept my less-fatigues, especially during longer walks.” With a rubber sole providing a tactile feel and confident traction in all types of terrain, this versatile shoe is a go-to choice for all occasions.
We really liked the light and slim feel of the On Cloud 5, but the shoe isn't for everyone. The shoe is only available in standard width, and those who require more volume inside the shoe may find these too snug. A wider and supportive option to consider is the New Balance 877 V1 which is available in wide and extra wide options. The sole of the On Cloud 5 is split into different sections which provides individual cushion and support but also picks up debris like sticks or pebbles. A comparable choice would be the Altra Experience Flow, which is another light and agile shoe with all-terrain performance. The On Cloud 5 is a fabulous choice for long shifts, travel, or running errands around town. Made of 44% recycled materials, this stylish and convenient shoe will surely keep you comfortable throughout the day.
The budget-friendly Under Armour Charged Assert 10 turned out to be a surprisingly well-rounded walking shoe. A breathable mesh upper with EVA sock liner provides a snug fit that kept our feet cool on the hottest of days. Add in a padded tongue, heel collar, and synthetic leather overlays and you have a winner of a walking shoe. These shoes also have additional wear protection and proved to be durable throughout our tests. We put the compression molded foam midsole to the test and found it absorbed impact with ease while the rubber sole gripped a variety of surfaces without fail. Our testing team noted, “When transitioning from carpet to tile or tile to pavement, I felt comfortable with the footing and traction provided. Wet conditions did not alter the performance of this shoe and I felt confident with each step placed.” These shoes have 33 millimeters of stack height under the heel, though they don't appear bulky. We appreciate the sleek design of these shoes without sacrificing the cushion underfoot.
The Charged Assert 10 is an affordable do-it-all option but takes some time to soften up the materials and break in. It didn't require a significant length of time, but it doesn't have out-of-the-box comfort. The toe box can feel a little small and restrictive, which is concerning, especially with foot swell over time. A durable, economical shoe, the Adidas Race TR23 provides more inner volume and room in the toe box. During the testing period, we found The Charged Assert to be lacking in ankle support, which could result in injury or strain. A similar option would be the Nike Motiva, which provides ankle stability and decent overall performance. Overall, the Under Armour Charged Assert 10 is a durable shoe with respectable performance at a price much more affordable than its competitors.
Throughout our comprehensive testing process, the Skechers GO WALK Joy consistently impressed us with its out-of-the-box comfort. We logged 10,000 steps immediately and found that while the upper initially felt slightly stiff, it quickly molded to our feet without creating pressure points. Regarding comfort, Mallory says, “When I took these shoes through our 10,000-step walking test, I found them to be surprisingly comfortable once broken in. There is adequate cushioning underfoot and I was surprised to feel that it far exceeded some more expensive shoes that I have tested.” The lightweight design particularly stood out in our testing - at just 5.16 ounces per shoe. These are among the lightest options we tested, matching or beating the weight of shoes, which cost twice as much. Our traction testing revealed solid performance across various surfaces. The deep, bubbly sole pattern provided reliable grip, though we did notice some pebbles occasionally getting caught in the crevices during our gravel testing.
These shoes show their limitations in support and adjustability. The slip-on design, while convenient for quick errands, means you can't customize the fit to your specific needs. During our long-distance walking tests, we noticed that the arch support, while adequate for casual use, fell short during extended periods of wear. If you're seeking more substantial support and the ability to adjust the laces, the Ryka Devotion Plus 3 provides a lot of comfort and support for a slightly higher price tag. Despite these constraints, we believe the GO WALK Joy represents an excellent value for casual walkers. At $65, it delivers impressive comfort and performance for daily activities without breaking the bank. While it may not be the best choice for serious walking enthusiasts or those needing specific support features, it's an ideal option for someone seeking a reliable, comfortable shoe for everyday errands and moderate activity.
Hoka knocked it out of the park with the Hoka Transport. Our testing process proved the Transport to be an incredibly versatile and capable shoe no matter what environment you wind up in. A quick toggle lace and molded sock liner make for on-and-off convenience and easy adjustment. Fitting true to size and comfortable from the start, Hoka offers this model in wide for those requiring more width. The Cordura upper is abrasion resistant, water repellent, and has 360 reflectivity for safety at night. Comfort and support are abundant with the EVA midsole and 39 millimeter heel stack height. Meanwhile, the lugs of the Vibram Natural outsole provide traction for all terrains. The Hoka Transport provides a nice balance of stability and comfort without being bulky and awkward. During testing, Travis Reddinger said, “As a Nurse Practitioner, I spend many hours upright on my feet. Using the Transport for prolonged standing at work, I am relieved to say I did not notice any lower back or knee discomfort. Likewise, throughout the duration of my testing, I had no hot spots.”
The Cordura upper provides abrasion resistance and weather protection but can be stiff and less breathable than some options out there. A high-performing shoe also means a higher price tag for the premium materials included, which can be off-putting to consumers. For walkers that prefer a quick-on shoe with a more flexible and breathable upper, the Kizik Lima is worth consideration. We recommend this shoe for walkers who encounter different types of environments and terrain and are ready for anything. A convenient shoe with all-day support and a slight rocker profile with smooth heel-to-toe-off movement, we feel the Hoka Transport is a standout performer for all types of environments.
Speed laces can create pressure points until broken in
SPECIFICATIONS
Measured Heel-to-Toe Drop
6 mm
Measured Weight
6.69 oz
Measured Heel Stack
28 mm
Closure Type
Elastic lacing
Upper Material
Mesh, polyester
After weeks of rigorous testing, we discovered that the On Cloud 5 excels as a travel companion that doesn't sacrifice performance for style. These shoes demonstrated their versatility during a weekend trip, effortlessly transitioning from airport corridors to mountain trails and evening outings. We particularly appreciate the innovative speed lace system - a thoughtful design element that streamlines security checkpoints while maintaining a secure fit throughout the day. During our structured testing, the shoe's engineering impressed us with its targeted support. The sole provides just enough flex at the forefoot while maintaining stability through the midfoot, creating a natural stride that remained comfortable even after 8,000-step days. The CloudTec outsole delivered dependable traction across most surfaces in our tests, though wet conditions did present some challenges.
Yet our testing also revealed some limitations. The distinctive cloud pod design, while excellent for cushioning, regularly trapped small rocks and debris - an annoyance we encountered frequently on gravel paths. We also found ourselves wishing for width options beyond the standard offering, as the current design may not accommodate all foot shapes. Though the speed laces enhance convenience, some testers reported initial pressure points across the instep that required a break-in period. Mallory noted during testing, “During my extensive walking tests, including two 8,000-step days of airport travel and urban exploration, the shoe's featherweight design contributed to noticeable comfort and reduced fatigue, though I noticed the elastic speed laces (while convenient for air travel) add negligible weight while potentially creating unwanted pressure across the top of the foot.” For travelers seeking similar adaptability but requiring more consistent terrain performance, we suggest looking at the Altra Experience Flow. However, if you're prioritizing a shoe that combines urban sophistication with genuine athletic capability, the On Cloud 5 stands out as our top travel pick. It's designed for the globe-trotter who refuses to pack multiple pairs of shoes, offering enough versatility to handle everything from museum walks to light hiking trails.
The Dansko Professional is a shoe synonymous with long shifts and prolonged periods of standing and with good reason. This shoe is recognized and recommended by many professions, from the service industry to the medical world, for their supportive and durable nature. Simple to slide on and off, these hands-free shoes are made of a solid leather upper with a wide toe box for movement and foot swell. The single-density footbed and padded instep collar provide comfort, while the heel counter allows movement but provides lateral support. Our testers quickly recognize the benefit of the thick polyurethane sole, which absorbs impact and maintains forward energy with a slight rocker profile. These shoes easily provide comfort and support for 12+ hours and keep you on the move. Our lead tester has been wearing these shoes for years and even said, “I have had personal Dansko clogs at work for many years and have not had any issues with material failure or wear.”
Understandably, this style of shoe has a learning curve and isn't suitable for everybody. The heel is designed to allow space for movement, but users can struggle with not feeling secure and lacking ankle stability. The polyurethane sole and full leather upper provide hours of support, but they require a break-in period to get that custom shoe feel and don't provide the best breathability. Users looking for support and comfort with a lower profile should consider the Altra Experience Flow for long hours on the feet. Despite the drawbacks of the construction, the Dansko Professional provides protection from fluids and a slip-resistant sole, which was not found in any of the testing groups. We feel the break-in period and learning curve walking in clogs is a very minimal price to pay for a shoe that provides such necessary stability and support.
The Dansko Professional is a classic in the service and medical industries for their support and comfort. Our testing found this to be true, and we were impressed by the shoe's durability.
Balances plush cushioning with rock-solid stability
Smooth, natural walking motion
High-quality construction with reinforced wear points
REASONS TO AVOID
Insulation can make feet warm
High price tag
SPECIFICATIONS
Measured Heel-to-Toe Drop
8 mm
Measured Weight
8.41 oz
Measured Heel Stack
37 mm
Closure Type
Lace
Upper Material
Engineered air-mesh
The Brooks Ghost Max 2 surprised us during testing - while most max-cushioned shoes feel unstable, this one manages to provide cloud-like comfort without any wobble. We put it through our standard 10,000-step test and found the midsole strikes an impressive balance: soft enough to absorb impact but firm enough to prevent that marshmallow feeling that often plagues heavily cushioned shoes. Our lead tester even said, “During my 10,000-step test, I experienced no foot fatigue or pressure points, even when wearing the shoes straight out of the box.” The six-millimeter drop combined with the shoe's wide platform created one of the most stable rides we've tested in this category. When walking stairs or uneven surfaces, we never experienced that tippy sensation common in shoes with this much padding. The rocker geometry also impressed us - it guides each step forward naturally without feeling aggressive or forced. Traction stands out as another highlight. Whether on wet sidewalks, smooth tile, or packed gravel, the outsole pattern provided a confident grip. The dense rubber compound shows minimal wear even after months of regular use, suggesting excellent longevity.
That said, there are some considerations. The extensive cushioning that makes these so comfortable also traps heat - our feet definitely noticed this during summer testing. We also found that careful lacing is essential; too loose and your foot slides forward, too tight and you'll feel pressure across the top. While the price tag reflects the premium materials and construction, it may give some shoppers pause. For those seeking similar stability with less bulk, we recommend checking out the Hoka Transport. However, if you're looking for maximum impact protection without sacrificing security underfoot - especially for long days of walking or standing - we think the Ghost Max 2 is worth the investment. The thoughtful stability features and durable construction set it apart from other max-cushioned options we've tested.
After extensive testing, including multiple 10,000-step days, we found the Kizik Athens to be a game-changing addition to the walking shoe category. The innovative CAGE heel mechanism delivers on its hands-free promise, allowing smooth entry and exit while maintaining structure - a feature we particularly appreciated during quick transitions throughout the day. The knit upper provides an adaptive fit that required zero break-in time, while the Rabbit Foam outsole offers well-balanced cushioning that's neither too soft nor too firm. During our testing, we were impressed by the shoe's stability, especially considering its slip-on design. Regarding the hands-free design, Mallory Paige says, “The standout feature is undoubtedly the hands-free entry system - I found it remarkably effective and consistently reliable through countless on/off cycles. While some shoes are almost hands-free, the Athens are the only ones I've tested that can truly make this claim.” The Athens also performed admirably on various surfaces, scoring particularly well on concrete and tile.
However, the minimal arch support became noticeable during extended walking sessions, with some testers reporting fatigue after several hours. We also observed that the shoes tend to develop odors more quickly than other models we've tested, though they are machine washable. The Athens is notably lighter than many competitors, but for those needing more support for long walks, we recommend considering the Brooks Ghost Max 2. The Kizik Athens represents an excellent choice for active individuals who prioritize convenience without sacrificing comfort. It's particularly well-suited for those who frequently need quick on/off capability, making it a worthwhile investment for daily wear, especially if you value innovative design and versatility in your walking shoes.
Our testers were impressed with the overall comfort of these shoes and the genuinely hands-free design.
Credit: Natalie Kafader
How We Test Walking Shoes
Our testing process begins with extensive market research to identify the most promising and popular walking shoes available today. From there, we purchase each model at retail - just like you would - to ensure completely unbiased testing. Over several months, we evaluated 28 different walking shoes through a combination of controlled lab analysis and real-world use.
After thorough research we purchase and test 15 of the top walking shoes on the market.
Credit: Mallory Paige
In our testing facility, we take precise measurements of each shoe's key specifications. We record stack heights, heel-toe drops, and rocker angles using standardized methods to enable direct comparisons between models. To verify internal construction and materials, we even cut shoes in half - allowing us to examine and document the various support structures and cushioning systems manufacturers employ.
Our testing team cuts each shoe in half so that we can get in-house measurements and fully evaluate the build from the inside out.
Credit: Natalie Kafader
The heart of our testing happens out in the real world. We logged a minimum of 10,000 steps in each model across varied terrain and conditions. From quick trips to the store to full workdays spent standing on hard surfaces, we used these shoes exactly as you would. This extensive field testing revealed how each model handled different surfaces, whether pressure points developed over time, and how well the materials held up to regular use.
We log thousands of steps on each walking shoe on cement, tile, and gravel surfaces.
Credit: Mallory Paige
To evaluate traction objectively, we tested each shoe across three common walking surfaces: concrete, gravel, and tile. We noted how the grip changed between surfaces and in both wet and dry conditions. We also carefully tracked any signs of premature wear or durability concerns that emerged during our testing period. Through this comprehensive testing approach, we're able to provide data-driven recommendations to help you find the perfect walking shoe for your needs.
Our scoring is weighted across five key metrics that we've identified as most important for walking shoe performance:
Comfort
Support
Traction
Weight
Durability
In our lab, we cut these shoes in half to take precise measurements. While in our real-world tests, we walked miles to see how comfortable and supportive each shoe was.
Credit: Natalie Kafader
Why Trust GearLab
Our men's shoe tester Travis Reddinger spends a lot of time on his feet. Working as a Critical Care Nurse Practitioner at a busy level one hospital, he is always on the move with long hours on hard hospital floors to constant movement between patient rooms. Spending 12+ hours a day on his feet, it's not uncommon to log 15,000-20,000 steps. Through this, Travis has learned the critical value of wearing walking shoes with the right combo of comfort, stability, and traction. Outside of work, he maintains his active lifestyle, enjoying the Minnesota seasons with his boys, Brazilian jiu jitsu, and just about any activity that isn't sitting still.
Our lead women's tester, Mallory Paige, brings a unique blend of real-world experience and analytical expertise. As a mother of three running an off-grid homestead, she spends countless hours on her feet tackling diverse tasks across varied terrain. Her minimum daily step count of 5,000 is often dramatically exceeded between managing family life and homestead duties. When she's not tending to her property, Mallory works as an artist, logging long hours standing on tile floors in her studio. Her Bachelor of Science degree from Colorado State University equipped her with valuable data analysis skills and critical thinking methods that enhance our testing protocols. This combination of practical experience and analytical background allows her to evaluate walking shoes through both quantitative measurements and qualitative assessments of real-world performance.
In our lab, we cut the shoes in half and took measurements of the heel stack height.
We cut these shoes in half to see what they were made of and measure everything we could.
We test each shoe in the lab and in the field to make the best recommendations.
We test all of our shoes in the lab and the field before making a recommendation.
How to Choose the Best Walking Shoes
Whether you're walking for fitness, commuting to work, or standing on your feet all day, choosing the right walking shoes can make a significant difference in your comfort and endurance. While your needs may vary based on your specific activities, understanding some key concepts will help you make an informed decision.
The best walking shoe for you depends a lot on your specific needs and use case.
Credit: Natalie Kafader
Men's Walking Shoes
For men's walking shoes, we assessed the 113 most intriguing models on the market. Our men's specific walking shoe review covers each of these in more detail.
Key Metric Scores - Men's Walking Shoes
Product
Comfort
Support
Traction
Weight
Altra Experience Flow
8.5
8.5
8
7.7
Hoka Transport
8
8.5
9
6.6
On Cloud 5
8
8
7
7.6
Brooks Ghost Max 2
7
7
7
6.7
Dansko Professional
7.5
9
7
4.0
Under Armour Charged Assert 10
5.5
6.5
7
6.8
Nike Motiva
6
6
6.5
6.6
Kizik Lima Slip On
6.5
5
6
6.2
VAMJAM Ultra Lightweight
5
3
5
9.0
Adidas Race TR23
4
6
5
5.9
Skechers Go Walk Max
5
4
3
8.2
New Balance 877 V1 Walking Shoe
4
5
5
5.8
Skechers GoWalk Max Effort
5
4
3
7.7
Women's Walking Shoes
We tested the 15 most popular women's walking shoes out there. Below is a breakdown of how they did in some of our key metrics. To learn more about these shoes, check out our review of women's walking shoes.
Key Metric Scores - Women's Walking Shoes
Product
Comfort
Support
Traction
Weight
Hoka Transport
9.5
9
9
6.6
Brooks Ghost Max 2
9
9
8.5
7
Altra Experience Flow
8.5
8
8
8
On Cloud 5
8
9
7
8
Hoka Arahi 7
7.5
7
7.5
7.6
Ryka Devotion Plus 3
8
8
6
7.4
Kizik Athens
8
7
7
5.7
New Balance Fresh Foam X 1080 v13
7
7
6
7.4
Skechers GO WALK Joy
7
6
5
9
Under Armour Charged Assert 10
6
6
7
7.2
Nike Motiva
6
5
6
7.1
Dansko Professional
7
8
5
3
New Balance 877 V1
5
6
5
6.3
Feethit Slip On
5
3
4
8.1
Adidas Cloudfoam Pure 2.0
4
4
3
8.6
Do You Need a Gender-Specific Shoe?
Women's specific walking shoes aren't just smaller versions of men's models. Several important design differences accommodate varying foot shapes, biomechanics, and support needs unique to women.
You don't have to pick a gender-specific design, but there are some benefits worth considering for a shoe like the Ryka Devotion that is made specifically for women.
Credit: Natalie Kafader
To start, women's shoes often feature softer midsoles designed for lighter wearers. While men's shoes tend to be wider overall, women's shoes typically have different proportional widths, featuring a narrower heel cup to secure the back of the foot while maintaining a roomy forefoot for natural toe splay. Women are more likely to overpronate due to differences in hip and pelvis structure, so women's shoes often incorporate more stability-oriented features. The narrower heel cup helps maintain proper foot positioning and guides the foot into an optimal landing position.
However, you shouldn't feel restricted to purchasing shoes only within your gender category. The best shoe is ultimately the one that feels most comfortable on your feet.
Types of Walking Shoes
Your walking style and daily activities will largely dictate which shoe style is best for you. If your typical day involves a 30-minute morning walk around the neighborhood or running errands, your shoe needs will differ significantly from someone who walks several miles daily or spends long hours standing on hard surfaces. The location, frequency, and duration of your walking all matter when selecting the right shoe.
Daily Walking Shoes
These versatile shoes represent what most people think of as standard walking shoes. They balance comfort with support and typically offer good durability for regular use. Daily walkers usually provide moderate cushioning and stability features suitable for various surfaces and walking speeds. They occupy different points along the spectrum between prioritizing comfort and prioritizing responsiveness, allowing you to choose based on personal preference.
The On Cloud 5 is one of our favorite shoes for day-to-day wear, as it is the perfect balance of comfort and support.
Credit: Mallory Paige
Max-Cushioning Walking Shoes
Max-cushioning shoes prioritize shock absorption and comfort above all else. These shoes feature noticeably high stack heights - the thickness between your foot and the ground. Most use specialized foam materials designed to absorb impact forces during each step. While this cushioning excels at protecting your joints, it often comes with trade-offs. The added padding typically increases weight and can make the shoes feel less responsive. These shoes tend to work best for those walking on hard surfaces like concrete or anyone seeking maximum impact protection.
Some shoes have a lot of cushion underfoot, which can take some break-in if you are not used to it.
Credit: Mallory Paige
Minimalist Walking Shoes
At the other end of the spectrum, minimalist walking shoes aim to promote natural foot movement while providing basic protection. These shoes typically feature low stack heights, minimal heel-to-toe drop, and wider toe boxes to allow natural foot splaying. While they offer less cushioning, they can help strengthen foot muscles and promote better walking mechanics. However, transitioning to minimalist shoes requires patience - your feet and legs need time to adapt to the reduced cushioning.
A shoe with very little cushion may not offer enough comfort on hard surfaces.
Credit: Natalie Kafader
How Much Cushion is Right for You?
As discussed above, walking shoes fall along a cushioning spectrum, from plush maximalist designs to minimal barefoot styles. Maximalist shoes feature the thickest soles, with stack heights of 45mm or more, delivering the most cushioned feel. In the middle range, moderately cushioned shoes typically have stack heights between 30-35mm. At the other extreme, barefoot shoes use ultra-thin soles around 3mm thick, offering just enough rubber to protect feet from rough surfaces while maintaining ground feel. There is no absolute right or wrong, it just depends on your use case and personal preference.
Our testers found the amount of cushioning on the On Cloud 5 to be a great balance between cushion and support.
Credit: Mallory Paige
High Cushioning (30mm+ stack height)
These shoes provide maximum impact protection and work well for:
Walking on hard surfaces like concrete
Those with joint sensitivity
Long days on your feet
Comfort-focused walkers
Moderate Cushioning (20-30mm stack height)
These versatile shoes are characterized by:
Balanced comfort and ground feel
Good stability
Versatile performance
Suitable for most surfaces
Minimal Cushioning (<20mm stack height)
These shoes emphasize natural movement and work best for:
Those seeking ground feel
Stronger feet and ankles
More natural walking mechanics
Primarily soft surfaces
The Brooks Ghost Max 2 offers plenty of cushion for all-day comfort.
Credit: Natalie Kafader
Understanding Support Needs
A shoe's support level depends on several factors - its geometric design, how wide the base is, how firm the foam feels, and whether it includes internal stabilizing features. Running shoes come in three support categories: neutral, stability, and motion control. Most shoes we review are neutral, with some offering added stability features - these work well for the majority of runners. Motion control shoes are specifically designed for runners with significant overpronation or oversupination issues. If you fall into this category, consult a podiatrist for personalized shoe recommendations.
The level of arch support built into a shoe can help with pronation issues.
Credit: Natalie Kafader
When choosing walking shoes, we think it's helpful to understand how your feet move. Through our testing, we've found that different shoes offer varying levels of support - but what's right for you depends on your natural walking pattern. Most of us have some degree of pronation (an inward roll of the foot) when we walk - it's completely normal and helps absorb impact. However, during our extensive testing, we've noticed that some people's feet roll inward more dramatically (overpronation) or barely at all (supination).
If you overpronate:
Your foot rolls notably inward with each step
You may have lower arches or more flexible feet
Look at your current shoes - if you see more wear along the inner edge, that's a clear sign
If you supinate:
Your foot tends to roll outward
You likely have higher, less flexible arches
Check your shoes - excessive wear along the outer edge is the telltale sign
Through our testing, we've found that stability features can help address both these patterns. Shoes that scored high in our stability tests typically offer a wider base for better balance, strategic foam density to guide foot movement, and more rigid construction in key areas.
Choosing the right support based on your gait can drastically improve your walking experience.
Credit: Travis Reddinger
Midsole Features
The midsole represents the heart of any walking shoe, significantly affecting comfort, support, and overall performance. Understanding key midsole characteristics helps you make an informed choice.
Midsole Features
Heel Stack
Heel-to-Toe Drop
Rocker Angle
Rocker Apex
Hoka Transport
34 mm
7 mm
21.5 deg
6.5 in.
On Cloud 5
30 mm
8 mm
19.5 deg
7.5 in.
Under Armour Charged Assert 10
33 mm
10 mm
23.0 deg
8.3 in.
Brooks Ghost Max 2
37 mm
8 mm
26.0 deg
7.0 in.
Dansko Professional
50 mm
26 mm
22.5 deg
8.2 in.
Altra Experience Flow
31 mm
4 mm
24.5 deg
8.3 in.
Kizik Athens
38 mm
15 mm
24.0 deg
7.0 in.
Skechers GO WALK Joy
29 mm
9 mm
19.5 deg
6.5 in.
Stack Height
This measurement refers to the total thickness between your foot and the ground, including all layers of cushioning. Higher stack heights typically offer more shock absorption but may reduce stability and ground feel. Lower stack heights provide better ground connection but less impact protection. While stack height contributes to cushioning, the quality and type of materials matter as much as quantity.
The Dansko Professional has a very large stack height.
Credit: Natalie Kafader
Heel-to-Toe Drop
This measurement indicates the difference in height between heel and forefoot. Traditional walking shoes often feature drops between 8-12mm, which can help reduce strain on the Achilles tendon. Lower drops (0-4mm) promote a more natural foot position but require stronger calves and ankles. Consider your walking style and any existing foot conditions when choosing drop height.
The Altra Experience Flow has a lower drop, which may take some getting used to.
Credit: Natalie Kafader
Rocker Design
Many walking shoes incorporate rocker soles - curved geometry that helps roll the foot forward during each step. A more aggressive rocker can reduce forefoot fatigue and help propel you forward, though it may feel less stable initially. Subtle rockers provide gentle assistance while maintaining a natural feel. Your walking speed and style should influence how much rocker you prefer.
A more aggressive rocker can reduce forefoot fatigue and help propel you forward, though it may feel less stable.
Credit: Natalie Kafader
The Importance of Fit
Fit remains perhaps the most crucial factor in choosing walking shoes. Even the most advanced features won't help if the shoes don't fit properly. Consider these fitting guidelines:
Heel should feel secure without slipping
Midfoot should feel snug but not tight
Toes need room to spread, especially during longer walks
About half an inch of space between longest toe and shoe end
Width should accommodate foot without pressure points
Traction and Outsole Design
The outsole's design determines how well your shoes grip various surfaces. Different walking environments demand different traction patterns and rubber compounds.
The bubble design on the Skechers Go Walk Joy provides adequate traction for most uses.
Credit: Mallory Paige
For urban environments, look for outsoles with moderate lugs and durable rubber compounds. A balanced design provides good grip on concrete and tile without being too aggressive. Flexible groove patterns help maintain natural foot motion while walking. If you frequently encounter wet conditions, seek outsoles with water-dispersing channels and softer rubber compounds that maintain grip on slick surfaces.
The sole pattern and material are important to prevent slippage on wet surfaces.
Credit: Natalie Kafader
However, remember that softer rubbers typically wear faster than firmer compounds.
Multi-surface walkers should consider versatile outsole designs with medium-depth lugs. These provide adequate grip across various surfaces without excessive wear or debris collection. Pay attention to the spacing between lugs - too tight can trap rocks and mud, while too wide may reduce overall traction.
Weight Considerations
While lightweight shoes can feel more comfortable during long walks, don't make weight your only consideration. The lightest shoes often sacrifice durability or support features that you might need. Instead, seek a balance between weight and functionality that matches your walking style. Generally, daily walking shoes weighing between 7-10 ounces provide a good balance of features and comfort. Lighter shoes (under 7 ounces) might work well for casual walks but may lack long-term durability. Heavier shoes (over 11 ounces) typically offer more support and cushioning but can cause fatigue during extended walking sessions.
Weight matters because a heavier shoe can cause increased fatigue.
Credit: Natalie Kafader
When to Replace Your Walking Shoes
Most walking shoes need replacement after 400-500 miles of use. Watch for visible compression or wrinkles in the midsole foam and worn tread patterns, especially in high-impact areas. You'll also want to keep an eye out for new aches or discomfort during walks, loss of cushioning or bounce, and uneven wear patterns on the outsole. Regular replacement helps prevent injury and maintains proper support. Track your mileage or establish a regular replacement schedule based on your walking routine.
We hope our review has helped you find the perfect pair of walking shoes for your needs and budget.
Credit: Travis Reddinger
Conclusion
Remember that investing in quality walking shoes pays dividends in comfort and injury prevention. Even if you need to spend a bit more initially, better shoes typically last longer and provide superior support and comfort. The best walking shoe for you combines appropriate support, comfortable fit, and durability suitable for your specific needs. It's worth taking the time to find the pair that is right for you. After all, these shoes will be your daily companions for hundreds of miles of walking.
