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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.
We put in thousands of steps during our in-depth testing of these walking shoes. From braving long airport security lines to taking strolls around the neighborhood, we became deeply acquainted with each and every one of these shoes. Along the way, we put our primary focus on comfort, support, and traction, still strongly considering their weight and durability.
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 April 7, 2025, with further evaluations of our award-winning walking shoes.
The Altra Experience Flow quickly became our favorite men's walking shoe thanks to its balanced comfort and support. 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.” This shoe delivered excellent shock absorption while still feeling responsive, so we felt confident tackling the longest of walks. The outsole kept us sure-footed on various ground types, and the specialized high-wear rubber increases the longevity. Sticking true to the Altra style, these shoes have just four millimeters of heel-to-toe drop and a wide toe box. Our team especially appreciated this design for a natural feeling stride. Yet, we didn't experience premature fatigue thanks to the 31 millimeters of cushion underfoot.
As nice as the Experience Flow may be, they are undoubtedly an expensive option. However, we think the stand-out comfort and build quality are worth every penny. If you are on the fence about the price, we were quite impressed with the Under Armour Charged Assert 10. These budget-friendly shoes offer enough for quick outings and short walks. However, they don't offer as much comfort and support as the Altra's, especially for long days on your feet. Those accustomed to a large heel-to-toe drop might also find the low-drop design a bit challenging to adjust to. Rest assured, the transition period doesn't last too long, and the low drop might have benefits to your gait. For a shoe with a more traditional drop, the Hoka Transport is our pick, with nine millimeters between heel and toe. All things considered, we continue to reach for the Altra Experience Flow during our walks and daily outings.
The Hoka Transport is one of the most comfortable and stable shoes we have ever tested. During our extensive testing, 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.” We were impressed by the Transport's ability to tackle various ground types. If you often find yourself on varying surfaces, including the outdoors, these are the shoes you want on your side.
The price of the Hoka Transport can be a tough pill to swallow. However, we are impressed by the longevity of these shoes and think the price is justifiable with enough wear. Additionally, those familiar with Hoka's typically plush shoes 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 On Cloud 6 has recently been released with the manufacturer stating they've added a sock liner and a wider opening. Our team is hard at work testing these shoes and will report back soon. Still, we believe the On Cloud 5 is a great option, and with the new version available, the former can be found at a steal of a deal. We recommend taking advantage of these sale prices while they last. Check back soon for an update on the On Cloud 6.
We were more than happy to throw on the On Cloud 5, knowing we had a big day ahead of us. The midsole cuts back on weight but doesn't sacrifice support or impact-protection. Travis Reddinger, our lead tester, said, “The cushioning was stable enough for long days on my feet, but continued to provide comfort step after step” Plus, they are a breeze to get on and off with their elastic laces. The well-vented, mesh upper prevented our feet from overheating on our long walks, further adding to our all day comfort. The pod-style sole is split down the middle, which allows for a flexible feel when walking. However, it isn't overly so. They still resist torsion while offering some flexibility, an ideal combination for a walking shoe.
The sole of the On Cloud 5 is split into different sections which provides individual cushion and support, but this tends to pick up debris like sticks or pebbles. While the traction remained stable outdoors, we found the constant pebbles stuck a bit annoying. Should you be walking outdoors on gravel or light trails, consider the Hoka Transport instead. These shoes offer plenty of support and all-terrain performance. All in all, the On Cloud 5 is an excellent choice for long walks, shift work, travel, or running errands around town. Time and time again, these are the shoes we reached for when we wanted extra support for our long day out.
The budget-friendly Under Armour Charged Assert 10 is a surprisingly well-rounded walking shoe that handles the day-to-day. The compression-molded midsole absorbed impact with ease, but didn't leave us feeling like we had a clunky shoe on. We had no trouble with traction on most surfaces, with our testers noting, “Even on wet surfaces, I felt comfortable with my footing.” We tested the breathability of these shoes in our lab and in real life and found them to be among the best. Should your feet run warm, you'll want these on your side.
The Under Armour Charged Assert 10 are a great option for shorter walks and for running errands around town, but we suggest a more supportive shoe for extensive walks, like the Altra Experience Flow. The Charged Assert held up well during our testing, 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. Our testing team also had some concerns for ankle stability. Those concerned about stability should consider the On Cloud 5 instead. All in all, the Under Armour Charged Assert 10 is a durable shoe with respectable performance at a price much more affordable than its competitors.
From the moment we slipped on the Skechers GO WALK Joy, we were impressed by their cloud-like comfort. During our first walk in them, they quickly molded to our feet and our team noted, “These shoes are surprisingly comfortable once broken in, which didn't take much time to achieve.” 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-based walks. The Go Walk Joy is one of the few slip-on designs that still felt comfortable. We still needed to use our hands to get them off, but taking them off was a hands-free experience.
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. 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. The lugs of these shoes closely resemble a hiking shoe, which allowed them to tackle every outdoor walking route we stepped foot on. However, they aren't too beefy for hard indoor flooring. We appreciated the quick toggle lacing system, which allowed for quick on-and-off convenience. 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.” Adding to its multipurpose functionality, they have an abrasion-resistant Cordura upper that is water repellent and reflective.
The Transport's Cordura upper provides abrasion resistance and weather protection. However, they can be stiff and less breathable than some options out there. Though our feet weren't necessarily overheating in these shoes, we can't help but compare them to the Altra Experience Flow, which has nailed breathability. The high-quality materials and excellent build quality are understandably why these shoes cost a little more. We had no durability concerns for these shoes are expect them to last a few walking seasons. If you are looking for a shoe for more casual wear or for shorter outings, the Under Armour Charged Assert 10 are much more affordable. We recommend the Hoka Transport shoe for walkers who encounter different types of environments and terrain and are ready for anything. A convenient shoe with all-day support and smooth heel-to-toe-off movement, we feel the Transport is a standout performer for anything your day throws at you.
Our team is hard at work testing the new version of this shoe, the On Cloud 6. Our team will report back soon with updated findings on this new version. In the meantime, we still think the On Cloud 5 is a spectacular shoe, and we think the current sale prices are worth considering.
We were pleasantly surprised by the level of support the On Cloud 5 provides. Yet, it isn't overly done and the sleek design is something we will gladly wear out and about. We took these on a weekend trip and were thrilled with how easy they were to throw on and off as we made our way through airport security. During our extensive walks, we avoided premature fatigue thanks to the stable sole that has just enough flex at the forefoot. These shoes aren't completely hands-free, like the Kizik Athens, but they aren't far from it. Putting them on requires a hand to hold the heel, but we were able to slip them off with no trouble. Though we loved these for travels, they also were an excellent shoe to throw on for our evening neighborhood strolls or long days out of the house. Our lead tester, Mallory Paige, notes, “After wearing these for long indoor and outdoor walks, I am happy to report my feet stayed stable, secure, and comfortable throughout the entirety of it.”
Our testing also revealed some limitations. The pod-like 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. Should you want a more customizable fit, On includes a set of traditional laces that can be swapped out. For those 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 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. If you struggle with heel pain from extensive standing, the Dankso might be the shoe for you. 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. 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 hours upright, aiding in fatigue prevention. The clogs are constructed from leather. With pros and cons to this, we appreciated the extended durability and splash-resistant protection. Our lead tester has been wearing these shoes for years and even said, “I have had a single pair of Dansko clogs at work for many years and have not had any issues with material failure or wear.” After extensive walking in these shoes, we understand why they have made their name in industries where being upright is part of the gig.
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. That said, these are best suited for indoor use or on concrete. The stack height and heel movement is not stable enough for prolonged walks on gravel or uneven paths. Instead, we suggest an option like the Hoka Transport, which are durable and capable of outdoor-centric walks. The full leather upper and polyurethane sole provide hours of support, but they require a break-in period to get a custom shoe feel. Additionally, the leather doesn't offer the breathability that mesh shoes do. If you are looking for support and comfort with a breathable upper, consider the Altra Experience Flow. Despite the drawbacks of the construction, the Dansko Professional provides protection from splashes and includes a slip-resistant sole. 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.
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. If your feet tend to run warm, the Altra Experience Flow is a far more breathable option. While the price tag reflects the premium materials and construction, it may give some shoppers pause. However, these were among the most durable shoes in our lineup, and we have no concern for these lasting for a few walking seasons. If you are planning on light walks or quick outings, the Skechers GO WALK Joy is a budget-friendly alternative. Though the Brooks Ghost Max 2 is fairly comfortable right out of the box, they might take some time to get used to if you are not used to a large stack height. At 37 millimeters stack height at the heel, these have plenty of cushion under the heel for long days. For those seeking similar stability with less bulk, we recommend checking out the On Cloud 5, which has 28 millimeters under the heel. 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. Mallory Paige says, “While some shoes are almost hands-free, the Athens are the only ones I've tested that can truly make this claim.” 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. 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 Tested
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
Next, our laboratory team of engineers cut open every pair to measure. In our testing facility, we take precise measurements of each shoe's key specifications following the according to the World Athletics guidelines. 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 (30% of the overall score)
Support (25%)
Traction (20%)
Weight (15%)
Durability (10%)
After tons of walking, we put these shoes through a series of tests in our lab.
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.
Alex Glades, Doctor of Physical Therapy, has medically reviewed this article and includes his thoughts on getting started with a walking routine and what to look for in a shoe. Alex says, “Look for a shoe that fits your natural foot shape, particularly in the toe box. Avoid any shoe that causes your toes to squish in, as this can cause future problems like bunions and long-term pain.” Alex goes on to say, “I prefer walking shoes with a minimal-to-moderate heel-to-toe drop, as an excess drop can cause weakness in the feet and ankles. However, you should prioritize what is the most comfortable and natural feeling for you.”
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
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
Men's Walking Shoes
For men's walking shoes, we assessed the 13 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
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
Fitness Walking Shoes
If you are starting a new walking routine, or already rolling with one, you will want a solid pair of walking shoes on your side. Shoes that prioritize stability are key, especially if your walks include uneven surfaces, like gravel. You will also want a shoe that is comfortable and doesn't cause hot spots. Opting for a choice with an adjustable fit can aid in both comfort and stability. Look for a shoe with arch support, cushion underfoot, and low to mid heel-to-toe drops. Our picks for fitness walking include the On Cloud 5, Altra Experience Flow, Hoka Transport, and Brooks Ghost Max 2.
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. Physical therapist Alex Glades says, “While minimalist shoes offer less cushioning, they can help strengthen the muscles in your feet 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, we recommend consulting 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. Almost everyone has some degree of pronation or an inward rolling of the ankle. It is normal and helps absorb impact. However, some people's feet roll inward more dramatically, called overpronation, or barely at all, known as 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
Getting Started With a Walking Routine
Starting a new routine doesn't have to be so daunting. We asked Alex Glades, physical therapist, to share some tips for starting a new walking routine. Alex suggests starting small and working your way up. He says, “The best way to get going with a walking routine is to keep it to 20 minutes a day for the first few weeks. The walks should be attainable and not interfere with the rest of your day.” He goes on to say, “After a few weeks of this, and once you feel comfortable in this routine, you can start adding a little more. You have two options. Either add more time to your walk and keep the pace the same. Or, increase the pace and keep it to 20 minutes.” The goal is to push yourself slightly but still in an attainable way.
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.
