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Finding the perfect walking shoes can significantly enhance your daily routine. The ideal pair should seamlessly blend comfort and support, potentially alleviating foot fatigue and discomfort during both everyday activities and exercise.
We've logged more than 200,000 steps while testing these shoes in the field and picked apart every detail of their design in the lab (we even cut them in half!). From long fitness walks to busy travel days and all-day-standing work sessions, we've put these 15 shoes through their paces to find the best options for you.
Our favorite walking shoe is the Hoka Transport. It offers an ideal balance of cushioning, stability, and ease of use. We found it comfortable straight out of the box, and we like how convenient and adjustable the toggle laces are.
The Skechers GO WALK Joy is a great budget-friendly choice. It slides on easily, is lightweight, and offers all-day comfort. Or if you prefer a shoe with ties, the Ryka Devotion is a well-balanced shoe that goes easy on the wallet.
If you find you do most of your walking on trails, you may want to consider a hiking shoe. Or, if you're a fan of minimalist shoes, you'll want to check out our reviews on barefoot shoes.
The Hoka Transport surprised us during testing by delivering a refined walking experience that breaks from Hoka's typically maximalist approach. After logging more than 10,000 steps in various conditions, we found the Transport excels in providing just the right amount of cushioning while maintaining exceptional stability. The Vibram EcoStep Natural outsole, made with 90% oil-free ingredients, proved remarkably capable across surfaces, earning top marks in our traction tests. These were one of the few shoes that tackled tile, gravel, and concrete with ease, thanks to their sticky rubber outsole and strategic lug pattern. Our testers also liked the quick-toggle lacing system, which offers more precise adjustment than elastic alternatives while maintaining easy on-off convenience. Mallory Paige, our lead tester said, “You can quickly get shoes snug but you can also undo them and take off in a flash. This is great when you need to go in and out of the house or if you like to tighten them for lots of walking, but easily loosen when driving or hanging out.” The rigid sole structure provides excellent stability without feeling cumbersome or too plush. Overall, this shoe strikes an ideal balance between support and maneuverability for various uses. Should you find yourself upright on hard floors all day or need something capable of outdoor walks, this shoe is worthy of your consideration.
While the Transport impresses in most areas, its premium price point may give some shoppers pause. Additionally, those seeking the cloud-like cushioning typical of Hoka's other offerings might find the Transport's more balanced approach too firm. For walkers who prefer maximum cushioning, we recommend considering the Brooks Ghost Max 2 instead. Or if you specifically want the classic Hoka cushion, the Hoka Arahi 7 - women's - Hoka Arahi 7 might be more up your alley. However, if you're looking for a versatile walking shoe that excels in urban environments while maintaining enough capability for light trail use, the Transport delivers exceptional performance. We particularly recommend it for daily walkers who value convenient adjustment, stable support, and reliable traction without excessive cushioning. The Hoka Transport stands as proof that sometimes less is more, even from a brand known for their maximalist designs.
During our comprehensive testing of women's walking shoes, the Skechers GO WALK Joy emerged as a comfortable and budget-friendly option that excels in everyday use. Right out of the box, we logged 10,000 steps and found these shoes required no break-in period. The upper, while initially feeling somewhat stiff, quickly adapted to provide a comfortable fit that didn't create pressure points. These are among the lightest walking shoes we tested at 5.16 ounces per shoe, matching the weight of more expensive options. These feel airy on thanks to their weight paired with the breathable mesh preventing sweaty feet on longer walks. In our traction tests, the bubbly outsole performed admirably on tile and concrete. While they don't have the most robust arch support, we found the natural toe bend and rigidity through the midfoot to be supportive enough for all-day wear. While these shoes aren't necessarily a hands-free design, like the Kizik Athens, our team was able to easily slip them on and off after they broke in.
However, these shoes aren't without limitations. The slip-on design, while convenient, means you can't adjust the fit for varying foot shapes or preferences. And with only one width option, they may not accommodate all feet shapes and sizes. If a wider shoe is needed, the high-performing Hoka Transport comes in both wide and regular widths. We also noticed that the arch support, while adequate for short walks, might not satisfy those needing more substantial support for extended periods. For users seeking more structured support, we'd recommend the Brooks Ghost Max 2, though it comes at a higher price point. Overall, we find the GO WALK Joy to be an excellent value proposition for casual walkers seeking a comfortable, lightweight shoe for daily errands and moderate activity. Their combination of immediate comfort, reliable traction, and accessible price point makes them one of our top picks.
The Ryka Devotion Plus 3 impressed us with its thoughtful approach to women's walking needs. During our extensive testing, including 10,000-step sessions, this shoe demonstrated why women-specific design matters. The anatomical fit featuring a wider forefoot and narrower heel created a secure yet comfortable walking experience. We particularly appreciated the strategic cushioning underfoot and around the ankle that prevented foot fatigue during long days of testing. The eight-piece rubber outsole provided reliable traction across various surfaces, earning solid scores in our surface tests. These shoes really made an impression on us after a few wears. Our lead tester, Mallory Paige, noted, “After the first day wearing them for 5,000 steps, I felt pretty neutral about them. I had no foot fatigue or hot spots, but they didn't immediately wow me, either. But after wearing them again for weeks and comparing them to other walking shoes, these really started to shine.”
However, our long-term testing revealed some concerns about durability. The arch support, while initially excellent, showed signs of compression after a few months of regular use. In our twist test, these shoes exhibited more flexibility than we prefer for maximum stability, suggesting they may not be ideal for severe overpronators. Those seeking more rigid support might prefer the Brooks Ghost Max 2, which demonstrated superior structure in our testing. Despite these drawbacks, the Devotion Plus 3 represents an excellent value for neutral walkers seeking a comfortable, women-specific design. We recommend these shoes for everyday fitness walking and urban exploration, particularly for those who prioritize anatomical fit and balanced cushioning over maximum support and longevity.
After logging thousands of steps in the On Cloud 5, we've found a versatile walking shoe that masterfully balances style and function. During our comprehensive testing, these shoes impressed us with their ability to handle diverse activities while maintaining comfort. The elastic speed laces make airport security a breeze, while the supportive design kept our feet happy through long days of urban exploration. In our stability tests, the sole demonstrated ideal flexibility at the toe while maintaining crucial midfoot rigidity. The CloudTec rubber outsole provided reliable grip in most conditions. We were shocked to see how well concrete and tile stuck to the ground even when wet. We like that these shoes are light, versatile, and easy to get on - all factors that contribute to their travel-friendly nature. Aside from traveling, we were more than happy to keep these on our feet for long days. For those who work on their feet or need a shoe to tackle long days upright, the On Cloud 5 doesn't disappoint.
However, these shoes aren't without their drawbacks. The signature pod design, while innovative, tends to collect small rocks and pebbles during walks on loose terrain, which we found a bit annoying. The single width option may not accommodate all foot shapes, and we found the elastic laces occasionally created pressure points across the top of the foot until broken in. For those seeking similar versatility but better performance on varied terrain, we recommend considering the Altra Experience Flow, which offers comparable comfort with superior traction across all surfaces. The On Cloud 5 strikes us as an ideal choice for the style-conscious traveler who prioritizes versatility and ease of use, making it our top pick for those seeking a single shoe that can handle both casual outings and light athletic activities.
Excellent impact absorption with cloud-like cushioning
Stable platform despite plush padding
Versatile traction across multiple surfaces
REASONS TO AVOID
Runs warm in hot weather
Expensive
The Brooks Ghost Max redefines what's possible in a maximum-cushioned walking shoe. During our extensive hands-on testing, we were immediately impressed by how it delivers plush comfort while maintaining remarkable stability - a rare combination in heavily cushioned footwear. The six-millimeter drop and wide base create a secure platform, while the rocker geometry promotes smooth transitions that made our 10,000-step test feel effortless. Traction proved exceptional across various surfaces and handling both wet and dry conditions with confidence. The build quality stands out, with reinforced wear points and a dense midsole that showed minimal compression even after months of testing.
However, this cushioning comes with some tradeoffs. The generous padding can cause feet to heat up on warmer days, and we found proper lacing essential to prevent foot sliding. While the price sits at the higher end of the walking shoe spectrum, we believe the durability and performance justify the investment. For those seeking a lighter option, we recommend considering the Altra Experience Flow, which offers similar stability with less bulk. After comprehensive testing, we're confident in recommending the Ghost Max 2 to walkers seeking premium cushioning without sacrificing stability - it's particularly well-suited for those who spend long hours on their feet or anyone prioritizing impact protection during extended walks
Our testers love the Kizik Athens, even after long 10,000+ step days. This shoe features an innovative CAGE heel mechanism that allows for easy, hands-free entry and exit. Our lead tester noted, “They are so easy to slip on hands-free. All the hype is well deserved as these are by far the easiest to slip on and off.” The knit upper required no break-in time, and the Rabbit Foam outsole provides well-balanced cushioning that feels just right — not too firm, not too soft. We were impressed by the shoe's stability, especially considering its slip-on design. They have a lace closure, but once you get your preferred snugness, you won't need to retie them. The Athens also performed admirably on various surfaces, scoring particularly well on concrete and tile.
On the flip down, we started to notice the minimal arch support on longer walks. The Athens started developing odors faster than some other shoes we tested, but we like that you can throw them in the washing machine. These shoes are notably lighter than some of their rivals in our lineup, but folks seeking added support for longer periods on their feet should check out the Brooks Ghost Max 2. Despite these minor drawbacks, we believe the Kizik Athens is a great shoe for anyone who values both convenience and comfort wrapped into one package. This shoe is great for folks who need to take shoes on and off repeatedly or who frequently transition between environments.
Versatile traction performs well on multiple surface
Minimal drop
REASONS TO AVOID
Initial adjustment period needed for low-drop design
Light colorways show dirt readily
The Altra Experience Flow impressed us during extensive testing with its ability to blend natural foot mechanics and modern comfort features. Throughout our 10,000-step evaluations, this 6.75-ounce shoe(per shoe, size 6.5) demonstrated exceptional versatility while maintaining Altra's commitment to natural foot positioning. The engineered mesh upper provides outstanding breathability and adapts well to different foot shapes, while the four-millimeter drop creates an efficient toe-off and smooth roll through each stride. We particularly appreciated the shoe's traction system, which earned top marks in our testing across multiple surfaces thanks to its well-designed rubber compound and multi-directional tread pattern. Our tester, Mallory Paige, noted, “These are really comfortable right out of the box. I had no pressure points thanks to Altra's wide toe box design. Anyone with wide feet or who prefers a natural foot splay will really like these.”
While these shoes excel in many areas, they do require some compromise. The traditional lacing system means they're not ideal for quick on-off transitions, and the white colorway shows dirt more readily than darker options. Some users report an adjustment period when transitioning to the low-drop design, particularly in the calf muscles. For those seeking similar performance with a more traditional heel-to-toe drop, we recommend considering the Hoka Transport. However, for walkers prioritizing natural foot movement while maintaining modern comfort features, the Experience Flow delivers impressive performance. After logging hundreds of test miles, we're confident recommending these shoes to anyone seeking a lightweight, versatile walking shoe that promotes natural foot mechanics without sacrificing comfort or stability.
Anyone looking for a walking shoe that has a wide toebox and promotes natural toe splay will be happy with the Altra Experience Flow.
Credit: Natalie Kafader
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We walked more than 200,000 steps while testing these walking shoes.
Credit: Mallory Paige
How We Test Walking Shoes
At GearLab, we believe in thorough, hands-on testing to help you find the perfect walking shoes for your needs. Our comprehensive testing process combines controlled lab testing with extensive real-world use to evaluate each shoe's performance across multiple metrics. For this review, we tested 15 popular models of walking shoes for women and put them all through their paces over several months, logging thousands of steps across varied terrain and conditions. The cornerstone of our testing is the 10,000 Step Walk Test, where we evaluate each shoe across multiple surfaces, including concrete sidewalks, indoor tile floors, and gravel paths. During these walks, we carefully assess comfort, noting any hot spots or pressure points that develop. We track how the cushioning performs over time and whether feet remain comfortable after hours of walking
In our testing lab, we took precise measurements of each shoe's stack height, heel-to-toe drop, and rocker angle. We even cut shoes in half to examine their internal construction and verify manufacturer claims. This allows us to provide standardized, comparable data across all models.
Our testing metrics focus on five key metrics that we've found most important for daily walking shoes:
Comfort (30% of overall score weighting)
Support (25% weighting)
Traction (20% weighting)
Weight (15% weighting)
Durability (10% weighting)
We cut apart each walking shoe and hand-measure all features in our dedicated testing lab to ensure accurate data.
Credit: Natalie Kafader
Why Trust GearLab
Our walking shoe testing team combines technical expertise with real-world experience. Lead tester Mallory Paige brings nearly a decade of experience in gear testing and review writing, along with a commitment to logging at least 5,000 steps daily in various conditions. Her Bachelor's of Science degree from Colorado State University has given her the skills to analyze large data sets, build scientific comparison studies, and think objectively.
We take our own measurements in-house to ensure accuracy.
The Brooks Ghost Max scored well on the flex test.
We test every shoe in the field and the lab, even cutting them in half to get precise measurements.
Analysis and Test Results
After months of testing, clear performance patterns emerged among our test shoes. Premium models like the Hoka Transport and On Cloud 5 demonstrated exceptional comfort and stability, while value picks like the Skechers GO WALK Joy proved that quality walking shoes don't have to break the bank. Let's dive into how each shoe performed across our test metrics.
What's the Best Value?
Value in walking shoes isn't just about finding the lowest price - it's about finding the right balance of performance and durability for your budget. The Skechers GO WALK Joy emerged as a top pick, offering impressive comfort and easy slip-on convenience at less than half the price of premium models. During our 10,000-step test, it provided reliable comfort and adequate support, though it doesn't match the premium cushioning of higher-priced options. The Ryka Devotion Plus 3 is another excellent value, particularly impressive given its women-specific design features. It offers good arch support and stability at a reasonable price point.
For those seeking maximum value in a premium shoe, the Hoka Transport justified its higher price through exceptional comfort, stability, and durability. While it represents a bigger initial investment, the quality construction and performance suggest it will maintain its comfort longer than less expensive options.
The Skechers GO WALK Joy are a budget-friendly choice, that did well across categories in our tests.
Credit: Mallory Paige
Comfort
Comfort is the most heavily weighted metric in our testing, accounting for 30% of the overall score. Through our extensive walking tests, we found that comfort comes down to three key factors: cushioning level, fit precision, and upper design.
Out of all shoes tested, the Hoka Transport earned our highest comfort score. Its balanced cushioning provides excellent impact absorption without feeling overly soft or unstable. During our 10,000-step test, our tester reported “consistently comfortable feet even after hours of walking on concrete.” The quick-toggle lacing system allows for easy adjustment, and the padded collar prevents heel slip without causing irritation.
We loved the quick-toggle lacing system that allowed us to get a comfortable fit without too much hassle.
Credit: Mallory Paige
The On Cloud 5 impressed us with its more minimalist approach to comfort. While it offers less overall cushioning than the Hoka, its strategically placed “cloud pods” provide excellent pressure distribution. However, we did notice that small rocks occasionally get caught in the sole gaps - a minor annoyance during testing.
After cutting apart the On Cloud 5, we could really see how the pod sole design provides the primary source of cushioning.
Credit: Natalie Kafader
Some shoes required virtually no break-in period - the Skechers GO WALK Joy and Kizik Athens were comfortable right out of the box. Others, like the Dansko Professional, needed several days of wear before reaching peak comfort.
Not only are the Athens comfortable, but they are super easy to get on hands-free.
Credit: Mallory Paige
During testing, we paid careful attention to how each shoe accommodated different foot shapes. The Altra Experience Flow stands out with its wide toe box design at 4.4 inches for a US 6.5, allowing natural toe splay. The Ryka Devotion Plus 3 offers a women-specific fit that our testers found particularly comfortable, with a narrower heel and more room in the forefoot.
Our testers liked that the Altra Experience Flow has a wide toe box and good support.
Credit: Natalie Kafader
We also discovered that some shoes that initially felt comfortable began to show their limitations during longer walks. The Feethit Slip On, while comfortable for short periods, left our feet feeling fatigued after several hours of wear due to its minimal cushioning.
The Feethit doesn't have much padding underfoot, leaving us fatigued after hours of wear.
Credit: Mallory Paige
Hot feet are never fun. We considered this when testing for comfort, too. At our lab, we even performed vapor tests to get a visual on how breathable the shoes were. Those with mesh uppers were far more breathable when compared to options like the leather Dansko. We were impressed by the Under Armour Charged Assert 10 and Altra Experience Flow when it came to breathability. Both of these shoes kept our feet cool on toasty days.
The Under Armour Charged Assert 10 excels in breathability, as shown here by our vapor test.
Credit: Natalie Kafader
Support
We assess support through three key tests: the twist test for torsional rigidity, the bend test for appropriate flexion points, and real-world stability evaluations on various surfaces where we deliberately test ankle roll resistance. During our twist test, we grip the heel and forefoot, attempting to rotate them in opposite directions - high-performing shoes, like the Hoka Transport resist this motion while maintaining enough flexibility for natural movement.
In our bend test, we press the toe box down while holding the heel to ensure the shoe flexes only at the ball of the foot rather than collapsing through the arch, which would indicate insufficient support. The On Cloud 5 bends at the toe but feels stable throughout. Mallory Paige reported, “My foot feels well cradled and like there is no risk of ankle rolling.” Additionally, they didn't create any hot spots or pressure points.
The On Cloud 5 bends at the toe but feels stable and secure enough for long walks.
Credit: Mallory Paige
We validate our lab tests with extensive real-world walking on uneven surfaces, including deliberate ankle roll attempts (done carefully and safely), while noting how effectively each shoe maintains proper foot alignment and prevents excessive motion - shoes with wider bases and structured uppers typically perform best in these stability assessments, like the Brooks Ghost Max 2 and Altra Experience Flow. The Brooks Ghost Max 2 bends at the toe but is strong throughout the rest of the shoe. Though it has plenty of cushion, it features a wide base and minimal heel-to-toe drop, lending to its stable feel. Likewise, the Experience Flow has a wide toe box and minimal drop, keeping us upright and stable during our long walks.
Stability Measurements
Heel Stack
Heel-to-Toe Drop
Rocker Angle
Rocker Apex
Hoka Transport
34 mm
7 mm
21.5 deg
6.5 in.
Brooks Ghost Max 2
37 mm
8 mm
26.0 deg
7.0 in.
Altra Experience Flow
30 mm
5 mm
22.5 deg
7.3 in.
On Cloud 5
28 mm
6 mm
19.0 deg
6.5 in.
Hoka Arahi 7
31 mm
5 mm
21.0 deg
7.6 in.
Ryka Devotion Plus 3
31 mm
10 mm
25.0 deg
7.2 in.
New Balance Fresh Foam X 1080 v13
37 mm
7 mm
22.0 deg
6.5 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.
Under Armour Charged Assert 10
30 mm
7 mm
20.0 deg
7.0 in.
New Balance 877 V1
32 mm
14 mm
24.0 deg
7.5 in.
Nike Motiva
32 mm
9 mm
18.5 deg
6.6 in.
Dansko Professional
51 mm
23 mm
19.0 deg
7.2 in.
Adidas Cloudfoam Pure 2.0
22 mm
8 mm
21.0 deg
7.1 in.
Feethit Slip On
24 mm
7 mm
21.0 deg
8.0 in.
Heel Stack Height and Cushioning
Stack height is the amount of material underneath the heel. While larger amounts of stack can translate to more cushion and impact protection, it can also cause more instability when too high. Through precise measurements in our lab, we found significant variations in stack height across our test group.
High Stack Height (35 mm+):
The Dansko Professional features the highest stack height at 51 millimeters in the heel, which provided excellent shock absorption but came at the cost of added weight and a somewhat clunky feel. The Brooks Ghost Max 2 and New Balance Fresh Foam X 1080 v13 both feature generous stack heights at 37 millimeters. During our 10,000-step test, these shoes excelled at absorbing impact on concrete surfaces. However, we found that higher stack heights generally corresponded with reduced stability, particularly during lateral movements. The Nike Motiva managed to overcome this tendency somewhat through its wider base design, still featuring a 32-millimeter heel stack.
Medium Stack Height (28-34 mm):
The Hoka Transport and On Cloud 5 hit what we consider the sweet spot for most users. With heel stack heights of 34 and 28 millimeters, respectively, these shoes provided ample cushioning for long walks while maintaining good stability and ground feel. The Altra Experience Flow particularly impressed us in this category, offering excellent protection while preserving proprioception through its balanced design, with a 30-millimeter heel stack.
Low Stack Height (below 28 mm):
The Adidas Cloudfoam Pure 2.0 and Feethit Slip On represent the minimalist approach at 22 millimeters and 24 millimeters, respectively. While these shoes felt more nimble and lightweight during testing, our testers noticed increased foot fatigue during longer walks on hard surfaces. However, they proved ideal for indoor use and shorter walking sessions.
The Adidas Cloudfoam Pure 2.0 have a very minimal design and small stack height.
The Dansko Professional has a large stack height, measured at 51mm after we cut the shoes open.
The Adidas Cloudfoam Pure 2.0 (left) has a minimal heel stack height, while the Dankso Professional (right) has a large height.
Heel-to-Toe Drop
Heel-to-toe drop represents the stack height difference between the heel and toe. The drop affects how your foot transitions through each step and can significantly impact comfort and performance.
High Drop (8 mm+):
The Nike Motiva and Ryka Devotion Plus 3 feature drops of nine millimeters and 10 millimeters, respectively. During testing, we found these shoes encouraged a heel-strike pattern and provided good forward momentum. However, some testers noted that the higher drop could feel less natural during longer walks.
Moderate Drop (5-7 mm):
The Hoka Transport and On Cloud 5 utilize moderate drops of seven millimeters and six millimeters, respectively. This range proved most versatile in our testing, accommodating various walking styles while maintaining natural biomechanics. The Brooks Ghost Max, with its eight-millimeter drop, sits at the upper end of this range but manages to feel balanced thanks to its rocker design.
Minimal Drop (0-4 mm):
The Altra Experience Flow stands out with its four-millimeter drop, staying true to the brand's natural foot movement philosophy. During testing, this lower drop promoted a more midfoot strike pattern and felt particularly comfortable for those accustomed to minimalist footwear.
The Nike Motiva has a very high heel-to-toe drop, which was measured from each line.
Credit: Natalie Kafader
Rocker Design
Some walking shoes often incorporate rocker soles to assist with forward momentum. The Nike Motiva features the most pronounced rocker design, with the apex being much more centered than others. During our walking tests, this translated to noticeably easier forward motion but required some adaptation time for most users.
The Nike Motiva has a very pronounced rocker design.
Credit: Mallory Paige
The Brooks Ghost Max and Hoka Transport implement more subtle rocker designs, with a more traditional curvature. We found this middle-ground approach provided smooth transitions without feeling overly aggressive or artificial. The Skechers GO WALK Joy and Feethit Slip On utilize minimal rocker designs. While this resulted in a more natural ground feel, these shoes required more effort during toe-off, particularly during longer walks.
Comparing the rocker designs, it's easy to see which have the highest rocker.
Credit: Natalie Kafader
Traction
A walking shoe's ability to maintain grip across various surfaces can make the difference between a confident stride and an uncertain step. Through extensive testing on multiple surfaces, we evaluated each shoe's traction capabilities in both dry and wet conditions, paying particular attention to performance on common walking surfaces.
Traction Across Multiple Surfaces
Product
Gravel
Tile
Concrete
Altra Experience Flow
5
4
5
Hoka Transport
4
5
4
Brooks Ghost Max 2
4
4
5
Hoka Arahi 7
3
4
5
Kizik Athens
4
4
4
On Cloud 5
3.5
3.5
4
Ryka Womens Devotion Plus 3
3
4
4
Under Armour Charged Assert 10
3.5
3.5
3.5
Dansko Professional
2.5
4
4
New Balance Fresh Foam X 1080 v13
3
3
4
New Balance 877 V1
3
3
4
Skechers GO WALK Joy
2
4
3
Nike Motiva
3
3
3
Adidas Cloudfoam Pure 2.0
2
3
3
Feethit Slip On
1.5
1.5
2
While none of these shoes are designed specifically for off-road use, some handled mixed terrain better than others. The Altra Experience Flow surprised us with its capability on light gravel, thanks to its well-designed lug pattern that prevented stone retention while maintaining a good grip. Conversely, the On Cloud 5's pod design, while excellent on hard surfaces, tended to collect small stones in its gaps during gravel walking tests. The Kizik Athens proves that sometimes simple is better. The sole design is very basic but does great on gravel. And the grippy rubber paired with the more extreme lug pattern on the Hoka Transport makes them a top contender for gravel use as well.
The Kiziks Athens has a simple sole design, but offers surprisingly good traction on gravel.
Credit: Mallory Paige
When it comes to indoor surfaces, the Ryka Devotion Plus 3 emerged as a standout performer. Its specialized rubber compound provided excellent grip on smooth tile floors without leaving marks or creating the squeaking noise we experienced with some other models. The Skechers GO WALK Joy also impressed us on indoor surfaces, offering reliable traction while remaining easy to pivot and adjust direction. Likewise, the New Balance 877 V1 excels on indoor and concrete surfaces thanks to its grippy outsole.
The rubber compound and lug pattern make a big difference in how a shoe performs during our traction test.
Credit: Natalie Kafader
The Hoka Transport demonstrated exceptional grip on concrete surfaces, maintaining solid traction even in wet conditions. Its Vibram EcoStep Natural outsole proved particularly effective during our testing, providing consistent grip without feeling sticky or resistant to natural movement. The On Cloud 5's distinctive pod design also performed well on concrete, though we found its effectiveness slightly diminished in wet conditions.
The On Cloud 5 did well in our traction tests, particularly on concrete and indoor flooring.
Credit: Mallory Paige
Our wet-condition testing revealed significant differences in traction performance. The Hoka Transport maintained approximately 90% of its dry-surface grip in wet conditions, leading our test group. The Ryka Devotion Plus 3 and Brooks Ghost Max 2 also performed admirably in wet conditions, retaining most of their dry-surface effectiveness.
The Brooks Ghost Max maintained good traction even in wet conditions.
Credit: Natalie Kafader
However, some models struggled significantly when wet. The Feethit Slip On's grip decreased notably on wet surfaces, particularly on smooth tile. The Adidas Cloudfoam Pure 2.0 also showed reduced effectiveness in wet conditions, requiring more careful foot placement to maintain secure footing.
The Feethit Slip On wasn't the best in terms of traction, especially on wet floors.
Credit: Mallory Paige
Weight
While weight might not be the first factor people consider when choosing walking shoes, our testing revealed that it significantly impacts comfort during long walks and all-day wear. Throughout our testing process, we carefully weighed each shoe and evaluated how its weight affected performance across different walking scenarios.
During our test, we found that some lighter shoes generally caused less fatigue. However, the relationship wasn't entirely linear. The Skechers Go Walk Joy were one of the most comfortable and they weigh just 5.2 ounces each (US 6.5). The Hoka Transport, despite being 8.4 ounces per shoe, received high comfort scores thanks to its efficient weight distribution and cushioning system. Conversely, the lightweight Feethit Slip On and Adidas Cloudfoam caused more fatigue on long walks than expected due to their minimal cushioning.
The Feethit Slip On are very lightweight, but also don't offer much in the way of padding or support.
Credit: Mallory Paige
We also noticed that weight location matters as much as total weight. The On Cloud 5 exemplified efficient weight distribution, with most of its mass centered in the midsole where it aided energy return rather than creating dead weight. The Dansko Professional, in contrast, concentrated much of its weight in the outsole, which required more energy to move through each step. Though for long days standing on your feet, this 14.8 ounces per shoe could be worth the weight.
The Dansko Professional is among the heaviest walking shoes we've tested.
Credit: Natalie Kafader
Lighter shoes generally offer better ventilation, with the Skechers GO WALK Joy and Altra Experience Flow providing excellent breathability. Heavier shoes often incorporated more materials and typically ran warmer during extended use, though some, like the Brooks Ghost Max 2, managed good ventilation despite their higher weight.
Our vapor test helps determine how breathable each shoe is, which is a big factor in temperature management.
Credit: Natalie Kafader
Durability
After months of rigorous testing and analyzing long-term user feedback, we gained valuable insights into how these walking shoes hold up under regular use. We evaluated durability through material analysis, stress testing, and careful observation of wear patterns during our extensive walking tests.
The Hoka Transport's Cordura abrasion-resistant textile proved exceptionally durable, showing minimal wear even after hundreds of thousands of steps. Likewise, the Dankso Professional left us with no concerns for their longevity. The upper is constructed from a high-quality leather that only occasionally shows scuffs. Keeping them clean is fairly simple. Just wipe them clean with a soft damp cloth. Dankso also recommends maintaining them with a leather conditioner.
The high-quality materials used for the Dansko Professional are some of the most durable in our lineup.
Credit: Natalie Kafader
The quality and durability of upper materials varied significantly across our test group. The On Cloud 5 features a premium engineered mesh that maintained its shape and integrity throughout testing, though we noticed some early signs of wear at flex points after extensive use.
The engineered mesh used on the On Cloud 5 is very durable and abrasion resistant.
Credit: Mallory Paige
In contrast, the Feethit Slip On's basic mesh upper showed early signs of strain at stress points, particularly around the toe box. The Adidas Cloudfoam Pure 2.0's knit upper, while comfortable, exhibited some stretching and shape loss after prolonged use.
The minimal cushioning in the Adidas Cloudfoam isn't the most durable with extended wear.
Credit: Natalie Kafader
The Altra Experience Flow and Brooks Ghost Max 2 are also options made from durable materials. The Altra Experience Flow had no noticeable weak spots or signs of concern after our extensive months of testing. Our tester, Mallory Paige, noted, “The engineered mesh upper feels like it will last a very long time and resist tearing.” The Brooks Ghost Max has reinforced eyelets and the mesh upper has a rubberized treatment that prevents premature wear. Even after months of wear, the Ghost Max 2 doesn't show any wrinkles in the foam midsole.
After months of wear, the Brooks Ghost Max 2 looks and feels as good as new.
Credit: Mallory Paige
Conclusion
When selecting your next pair of walking shoes, consider your primary use case and typical walking environment. If you frequently walk on concrete or hard surfaces, prioritize cushioning and impact absorption. For those covering longer distances, weight and breathability become more crucial factors. Budget-conscious buyers should consider both initial cost and expected lifespan - sometimes spending more initially can prove more economical over time.
