22 Best Walking Shoes, According to Podiatrists and Editors | 2024 Picks

Whether or not you’re operating errands, taking lengthy strolls, or standing all day.

In case you’re a day by day walker, frequent errands-runner, or any person who prioritizes consolation across the clock, your ft deserve the perfect strolling footwear yow will discover. We’re right here to assist make your search as seamless as doable, whether or not you’re out there for a pair you may put on whereas exploring the neighborhood, climbing, working in your ft all day, or making an attempt a brand new strolling exercise.

We spoke with podiatrists and bodily therapists, and dug by means of road-tested SELF Sneaker Award winners from previous years to seek out the very best, comfiest footwear for all walks (heh) of life.

Our high picks

1. Finest Total: Hoka Bondi 8
2. Finest Finances Decide: Ryka Devotion X Strolling Shoe
3. Finest for Most Cushioning: New Steadiness Contemporary Foam X 880v14
4. Finest for Plantar Fasciitis: Kuru FLEX By way of
5. Finest for Flat Toes: Hoka Arahi 7
6. Finest Strolling Sandals: Chaco Z1 Traditional Sandal
7. Finest for Lengthy Distances: Asics GT-1000 12
8. Finest Mountaineering Boot: Merrell Moab 3 Mid

If it’s time to seek out some new sneaks that you simply’ll really feel excited to lace up, then check out these editor-tested and expert-approved pairs.

Finest Total: Hoka Bondi 8

Execs

• Nicely-cushioned
• Good for strolling and standing all day
• Large and supportive base

Cons

• Considerably unwieldy given how tall and chunky they’re

Really helpful by Dr. Abraham, permitted by the American Podiatric Medical Affiliation (APMA) for supporting foot well being, and a 2023 SELF Sneaker Award winner, the ever-popular Bondi 8 from Hoka is without doubt one of the most snug strolling footwear you may attempt proper now. It’s exceedingly comfortable, with a thick and broad sole that places loads of padding between your foot and the bottom. Not solely do you get a pleasant quantity of carry from that further cushioning, however it could additionally assist forestall knee and foot ache. “Since I’ve began dwelling in my Bondi 8s, I now not really feel the foot and calf ache that slowed me down in my outdated sneakers,” says one author who reviewed the Hoka Bondi 8s for SELF. “I can run round with out feeling the influence on my knees, making my favourite actions extra satisfying.”

One observe: With the only’s chunkiness, you may not need to put on them for actions the place agility is your high precedence. Nevertheless, the Bondi isn’t particularly heavy (“regardless of how cumbersome the shoe appears, it feels shockingly light-weight,” our reviewer says) and its breathable mesh higher encourages airflow, so your ft received’t really feel fatigued or sweaty, even after lengthy stints of standing and strolling. One other SELF tester even took their pair for a spin at a four-hour live performance with no complaints.

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Finest Finances: Ryka Devotion X Strolling Shoe

Execs

• Nice cushioning
• Comparatively inexpensive

Cons

• Some reviewers say the shoe lacks sturdiness

The four-layer, shock-absorbing sole on these Ryka sneakers will preserve your ft pleased for lower than most different choices on this listing. APMA-approved, the Devotion X is designed particularly for a lady’s foot, and gives stable arch assist, an additional padded heel, and a rocker-bottom to assist naturally propel you ahead as you stroll.

SELF’s senior commerce editor loves the Devotion X’s marshmallow-y cushioning: “These are by far the softest, most snug sneakers I’ve ever worn—it’s like strolling on air,” she says. “Plus, I’ve broad ft and the medium width suits me completely, with loads of room within the toe field. Good and roomy!”

Amazon reviewers are followers, too: “LOVE LOVE LOVE this specific model from Ryka. …this one has a really cushioned outsole,” one wrote. “I’ve tremendous ornery ft and normally they’re hurting by the top of the day, however I can put on these all day.”

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Finest for Excessive Arches: Vionic Stroll Strider Sneaker

Execs

• Offers ample, however versatile, mid-foot assist
• Helps with overpronation

Cons

The Stroll Strider, which received a Seal of Acceptance from the APMA, has all of the options you might need for arch assist and general consolation. Excessive-rebound cushioning within the sole pairs with anti-roll and lateral rigidity to supply a springy however secure journey, and the versatile, light-weight insole gives carry with out feeling too arduous on the foot.

“Regardless that I’ve excessive arches, I draw back from footwear that tout their ‘arch assist’ as a result of, as a rule, the insole’s crest hits at an uncomfortable a part of my foot,” says SELF’s commerce director. “The Vionic’s instep, nevertheless, is good. When sporting these sneakers, my ft really feel held in a impartial place, serving to me keep away from over-pronation.”

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Finest for Metropolis Strolling: Dr. Scholl’s Hannah Retro Sneaker

Execs

• Cute retro design
• Springy foam insole
• Flexible outsole strikes along with your foot

Cons

• Runs on the small aspect
• Not obtainable in broad width

In case you’ve filed Dr. Scholl’s away in your mind as a fuddy-duddy maker of orthotics, you’re significantly lacking out. The model’s present roster of footwear—together with sneakers, loafers, wedges, boots, and extra—are as cute and classy as they’re snug. (And that’s actually saying one thing: Dr. Scholl’s was created by a podiatrist, in spite of everything.)

The Hannah Retro sneaker options what Dr. Scholl’s calls its “BLOOM” insole—a springy, comfortable footbed made out of plant-based EVA foam. “After falling in love with Dr. Scholl’s platform Time Off sneaker, I clambered to attempt as many footwear that includes the identical padded insole as I might,” says SELF’s commerce director. “The Hannah Retro rapidly stole my coronary heart with its bouncy step and ‘80s-track-inspired aesthetic. It appears nice with denims, skirts, and athleisure and feels on-trend strutting about New York Metropolis.”

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Finest Strolling Sandals: Chaco Z/1 Traditional Sandals

Execs

• Sturdy and supportive
• Straightforward to regulate

Cons

• Could really feel too agency for some folks

With an “ugly cool” gorpcore aesthetic—and a stamp of approval by the APMA—there’s a lot to like about this strolling sandal from Chaco. Bodily therapist Nick Cutri, PT, DPT, CSCS, particularly referred to as out the sturdy arch assist in its contoured footbed when he beforehand really helpful it to SELF. Our senior commerce author additionally swears by them for heat climate walks—in truth, they’re the one sandals she’s willingly to put on. “They don’t really feel foamy or squishy, however that’s to not say they’re rock-hard, both,” she writes in her assessment. “The Z/1’s insole has some give to assist soak up the influence of my footsteps, and it’s versatile sufficient to bend with my foot whereas I stroll. It’s undeniably sturdy (and, at 11 ounces per shoe, fairly heavy) for a sandal, however I like how substantial it’s.”

In case you like your sandals to really feel plush, the Z1 Traditional could also be a bit agency or inflexible on your liking, however it’s constructed to final. Working example: “As a teenage camp counselor, these had been my go-to sandals and I nonetheless have the identical rugged pair a decade later,” one other SELF tester says. “They’re extraordinarily sturdy and the only has a hefty weight to it, which is useful for strolling in water. They by no means gave me blisters, however did give me some gnarly tan strains.”

Foot tan apart, the Z1’s straps earned factors from Dr. Cutri, who appreciated their adjustable design—you may put on this sandal nearly anyplace (together with by means of water and over rocky paths) and belief that it’ll keep securely in your foot.

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Have extra particular wants, like a shoe to alleviate plantar fasciitis ache or boots that may stand as much as rugged terrain? Take a look at the top-rated strolling footwear beneath.

Finest for Flat Toes: Hoka Arahi 7

Execs

• Very supportive
• Light-weight

Cons

• Much less cushioning
• Some reviewers discover the Arahi 7 stiffer than earlier fashions

It isn’t simply the Bondi that has podiatric bona fides: Most pairs of Hokas are permitted by the APMA, together with the Arahi 7, which is a wonderful shoe for walkers with flat ft. It’s designed to stop overpronation (a typical problem for folk with decrease or collapsed arches during which their ft are likely to roll inward). It lacks among the cushioning you’ll discover in different Hokas, however that helps preserve it good and light-weight, in addition to secure.

One factor to bear in mind when deciding on your measurement: In our testers’ expertise, the footwear run a bit massive.

Most Cushioning: New Steadiness Contemporary Foam X 880v14

Execs

• Thick, cloud-like sole,
• Ethereal, light-weight really feel

Cons

New Steadiness’s Contemporary Foam line is thought and cherished for its bouncy soles, that are further thick on the heel to make sure critical shock absorption and springy vitality return, whether or not you’re strolling or choosing up the tempo. The higher is stretchy and breathable, and there’s no break-in interval, per one Zappos reviewer.

Finest for Plantar Fasciitis: Kuru FLEX By way of

Execs

• Designed particularly to stop plantar fasciitis and heel ache

Cons

• Could not work effectively for broad ft

Due to its heel-cradling design and impact-absorbing cushion, the Kuru FLEX By way of could assist ease foot ache, together with the stabbing sensation within the heel that comes with plantar fasciitis. One other useful function is its spectacular, dual-density arch assist, constructed to maintain your ft secure and cozy all day lengthy. What’s extra, it has a sectioned, grooved sole that gives a brilliant versatile really feel and easy roll from heel to toe as you stroll.

Reviewers respect that the FLEX By way of has a supportive design with out the look of a typical orthopedic shoe. Per one reviewer who has a horse farm and spends loads of time on their ft, “these sneakers are a recreation changer.”

Finest for Large Toes: Altra Paradigm 7

Execs

• Large toe field
• Plush cushioning
• Stabilizing design

Cons

• Zero heel-to-toe drop could not really feel good for all walkers

Altras are identified for 2 issues: broad toe bins that permit your ft to totally unfold out, and 0 drop, which suggests the heel and toe of the shoe are on the identical top. The previous will seemingly make these an ideal match for folk with wider ft, whereas the latter is polarizing—you’ll both love the sensation (extra like bare-foot strolling) or hate it. “I’ve bunions and customarily must put on footwear with plenty of cushion,” wrote one REI reviewer. “My podiatrist really helpful this model and mannequin and I discover that I needn’t put my orthotics in them and do not expertise ache in my ft.”

Finest for Slim Toes: Nike Invincible 3

Execs

• Extremely cushioned
• Breathable

Cons

• Some reviewers report points with sturdiness

The Nike Invincible 3 received a 2023 Sneaker Award for Finest On a regular basis Runner, and we expect it could make a superb on a regular basis walker too, significantly for anybody with slim ft. Nike footwear usually run slim, and these aren’t any exception. The Invincible 3 is one in all Nike’s most cushioned highway runners, which suggests it should additionally preserve your ft pleased over miles of hoofing it. Our tester cherished the plush but responsive foam. The waffle outsole gives traction whereas the knit higher creates an ethereal, breathable really feel.

Finest Minimalist Strolling Shoe: Adidas Ultraboost 1.0

Execs

• Light-weight
• Breathable
• Versatile match and really feel
• Responsive

Cons

• Won’t provide sufficient assist or cushioning for some

Ultraboosts have lengthy been a favourite of consumers for his or her glossy, minimalist look, springy really feel, light-weight higher, and general consolation with out the clunkiness of many super-padded strolling footwear. A cosy however stretchy recycled yarn higher hugs the ft and the molded heel counter helps forestall shifting.

“I work at a nursing house and these footwear are very snug,” wrote one Adidas reviewer. One other added that the Ultraboosts are “probably the most snug shoe” they personal. “I work on my ft for 10 hours a day and it appears like I’m strolling on clouds!”

Finest for Journey: Hoka Clifton 9 Working Shoe

Execs

Cons

• Sizing could also be inconsistent (in response to reviewers)

Launched early final 12 months, the Clifton 9 is yet one more plush providing from Hoka, however it’s slimmer and lighter-weight than different fashions and former iterations of the Clifton. The streamlined building makes it probably the greatest footwear for touring, with a breathable, light-weight design that received’t weigh you down throughout lengthy walks by means of a brand new metropolis (or your individual neighborhood, when you don’t have a visit on the books). SELF’s government editor famous that the Clifton 9 didn’t exacerbate her plantar fasciitis in any respect, even after strolling throughout New York Metropolis.

Finest Mountaineering Sandals: Eager Newport H2 Sandal

Execs

• Protecting
• A lot of traction

Cons

• Not as adjustable as different climbing sandals

A very good climbing sandal must be protecting but breathable, and the extremely sturdy Eager Newport H2 strikes that steadiness. This shoe retains you protected from roots and pebbles with a tricky rubber toe cap; dries rapidly after water crossings; and, maybe most significantly, helps your ft with a snug, molded insole and a high-traction rubber outsole. Although it doesn’t have as a lot adjustability as our fave Chaco, it encompasses a bungee strap down the middle of the foot which you could cinch. It’s additionally a high-quality choice to slide on for day-to-day excursions: Journey photographer Kathryn Cooper beforehand advised SELF that she’ll put on her pair “to the grocery store and on six-mile day hikes.”

Finest for Lengthy Distances: Asics GT-1000 12

Execs

• Lengthy-term consolation proper out of the field
• Supportive

Cons

This SELF Sneaker Award-winner stood out to our testers as a result of it was light-weight but well-cushioned, springy, and extremely supportive—even after they had been on their ft for hours at a time. None skilled any discomfort from chafing or blisters by the top of the day, and one tester even observed that the GT-1000 12 molded to their foot with simply a few wears (remember that some on-line reviewers discovered that it ran a bit slim). The froth midsole provides to the assist our testers cherished, and gives a pleasant quantity of padding. In case you want a pair of strolling footwear for all-day consolation, that is it.

Finest for Spending All Day on Your Toes: Skechers Max Cushioning Elite 2.0

Execs

• Nicely-cushioned
• Lengthy-term consolation

Cons

One SELF Sneaker Award tester wrote that their Skechers Max Cushioning Elite 2.0s supplied “excellent arch assist” and saved their “arthritic knees cushioned and feeling superb all day.” Additionally they famous the ample padding all through the shoe, which supplies the only a little bit of carry (particularly on the heel). This added top initially made one other tester fear that her ankle would roll whereas sporting the Elite, however she discovered it to be safe and straightforward to put on for lengthy durations of time. Not solely is that this an ideal shoe for standing—it’s additionally geared up with a reasonable rocker sole to maintain your momentum going while you’re on the transfer.

Finest Waterproof Strolling Footwear: Merrell Bravada 2 Waterproof Mountaineering Shoe

Execs

• Light-weight and versatile, loads of traction

Cons

• Requires a break-in interval

SELF beforehand deemed this sneaker-trail shoe hybrid probably the greatest waterproof strolling footwear. The Merrell Bravada 2 is versatile and snug-fitting like a operating shoe, however rugged like a climbing shoe (the only’s rock plate protects your ft from arduous, uneven terrain, whereas the ankle cuff gives gentle assist). And, most significantly, it’s prepared for the weather with a sealed waterproof inner membrane and grippy outsole. The Bravada 2 could really feel tight or trigger blisters at first, so give your self a number of wears earlier than taking it out on an extended journey.

Finest Informal Strolling Footwear: Reebok Membership C 85 Strolling Shoe

Execs

Cons

• Not fitted to extra-long distances

Years after taking house a SELF Sneaker Award, these classic-cool Reeboks stay a top-rated decide for brief walks, operating errands, and on a regular basis put on. The shoe’s easy, timeless design has a comfortable midsole that’ll pad your steps with out feeling clunky. Whereas we wouldn’t suggest these white sneakers for particularly lengthy or off-road walks, you may count on them to final a very long time while you put on them for informal outings. (BTW, the sturdy leather-based higher softens with put on to get much more snug over time.)

Finest for Overpronation: Brooks Adrenaline GTS 23 Supportive Working Shoe

Execs

• Stabilizing design
• Nicely-cushioned

Cons

In case you are likely to overpronate while you stroll, which, once more, is when your foot rolls inward as you step, Dr. Abraham recommends this breathable, supportive sneaker from Brooks. SELF’s director of health and meals has logged tons of of miles in her pair, and calls the Adrenaline GTS 23 “a legit savior” for her ft and legs. “I’m an overpronator, and if I’m not cautious about my shoe alternative, I way-too-frequently find yourself sidelined with some annoying decrease leg accidents.” She additionally finds that the shoe’s stability GuideRails (that are primarily two strains of agency foam that run alongside both aspect of the heel) assist scale back extra movement whereas she’s on the transfer. “And,” she concludes, “I like its gentle, reasonable cushioning that’s comfortable with out being an excessive amount of.”

Finest for Trails: Nike Pegasus Path 4 Gore-Tex Waterproof Path Working Footwear

Execs

• Versatile and cozy

Cons

• Not fitted to particularly rocky or technical terrain

Nike’s Pegasus 4 has the flexibility to hold you over leisurely trails and really feel good in your ft while you return to civilization. That capability to carry out effectively and look equally at-home on- or off-road is why it received a SELF Sneaker Award final 12 months and continues to be a preferred decide right now. “I purchased them for hilly and rocky terrain, however [they] can be utilized for strolling and operating on flat surfaces too,” one common wearer tells SELF. The Pegasus 4 additionally earned excessive reward from SELF’s testers for its grippy sole, dependable (and breathable!) waterproofing, and cute design (one particular person talked about getting plenty of compliments whereas out and about). In case you’re planning on checking off longer or extra technical treks, a climbing boot might be your greatest guess, however when you don’t want a ton of assist and safety in your out of doors walks, a climbing sneaker or path operating shoe like Nike’s will just do effective.

Finest Mountaineering Boot: Merrell Moab 3 Mid Mountaineering Boots

Execs

• Very snug
• Sturdy
• Protecting

Cons

• Most fitted for rugged trails—will really feel too heavy on straightforward or paved paths

As we talked about above, when you’re embarking on a steeper, rockier, or tougher hike, you’ll must stage up from a shoe to a boot—and the Moab 3 is an distinctive alternative. This crowd-pleasing hiker is extremely really helpful by out of doors consultants for its rugged really feel and flexibility. “[The Moab is] extraordinarily snug no matter terrain and size of hike,” Myriam Bishop, a backpacking information for Wildland Trekking Firm, beforehand advised SELF. It helps you keep your footing, it protects your toes and heel, and helps your ankle with a mid-height shaft. If you wish to get again to nature with out worrying about blisters, chafing, or ache underfoot, the Moab 3 is a superb decide.

Finest for Sweaty Toes: On Cloud 5 Working Shoe

Execs

Cons

On makes some significantly springy strolling footwear, and the favored Cloud 5 sneaker is not any exception, due to its light-weight cushioning. Its higher is product of antimicrobial, breathable mesh, which makes it an ideal choice for the hotter months or anybody with sweaty ft. The Cloud 5 can also be a stable decide when you want a go-to shoe for lengthy journey days—it’s gentle sufficient to pack away, obtainable in loads of cute colorways that’ll match a spread of outfits, and straightforward to slide on for lengthy days of sightseeing. A heads up earlier than you order: On sneakers, together with this model, are likely to run small.

Finest for Being pregnant: Allbirds Tree Loungers

Execs

Cons

• Not particularly supportive

Specialists suggest that pregnant folks search for breathable, versatile strolling footwear that aren’t a chore to placed on (as a result of as your being pregnant progresses, you may not need to bend all the way down to tie a bunch of laces). Allbirds’s mechanically cleanable Tree Lounger checks all these bins. “I wanted one thing to put on round the home to assist my ft throughout being pregnant. These are good,” one reviewer wrote. “They’re light-weight and breathable and supply the assist I would like.” (That mentioned, you don’t have to be pregnant to take pleasure in this comfy-casual slip-on.) Any such footwear may not be as safe and supportive as you could favor for longer walks, however it’s an easy-breezy choice while you simply need one thing comfortable.

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