The Best Walking Shoes For Men, According To Testing And Podiatrists (2024)

Leoni Jesner

Contributor

Opinions expressed by Forbes Contributors are their own.

Molly Calhoun

Contributor

Opinions expressed by Forbes Contributors are their own.

On Cloud 5 Shoes

Sizes: 7 to 14| Colors: 13 total | Lacing: Elastic speed laces and pull-tight laces| Key feature: Lightweight design

What’s notable: Made of partially recycled materials, this shoe’s breathable mesh upper and removable cushioned arch insole make it a comfy, easy-to-wear style.

What could be better: This style runs a bit small and narrow.

Swiss running shoe brand On is known for its science-backed CloudTec foam, a forgiving material described as “running on clouds.” Designed to provide all-day comfort, the Cloud 5 has a removable cushioned arch insole, should you require additional support, plus a Speedboard that runs the length of the sneaker that promotes stability and propulsion when walking. Weighing just 223 grams, it’s a super lightweight, sleek and eco-conscious shoe—around 45% of its materials are recycled. “People often gravitate toward this shoe because it can be worn as a slip-on,” says Mel Siegel, shoe specialist and owner of Sportech. “It doesn’t necessarily look like an athletic shoe, but it has a nice and comfortable sneaker feel.”

What our tester says: Forbes Vetted account manager Rich Molinaro specifically appreciates this pair’s mesh uppers. “I really enjoy the breathability of the shoe,” he says. “The mesh allows air flow that helps keep my feet cool after a long walk.” While Molinaro described the fit as “very snug, in a comfortable way,” some customer reviews recommend sizing up by a half size.

Allbirds Merino Wool Runners

Sizes:8 to 14 |Colors:8 total |Lacing:Tie laces |Key feature:Soft, stretchy wool upper

• What’s notable: This pair has a moisture-wicking insole, and if your shoes ever get dirty or smelly, they’re also machine washable.
• What could be better: Allbirds are stylish but not meant for rugged pursuits, like hiking.

Allbirds’ bestselling Merino Wool Runners is made from superfine ZQ merino wool, a fiber that’s soft, sustainable and boosts the shoe’s breathability while reducing unwanted odors. There’s also a moisture-wicking insole derived from castor bean oil and the laces are comprised of 100% post-consumer recycled polyester. Beyond that, these sneakers are suited for everyday walking and are machine washable (on cold), should you scuff them up.

What our tester says: Audience development director Spencer Dukoff describes the fit as “extremely comfortable,” and adds that “the shoes needed minimal breaking in, leaving zero blisters as I got adjusted to wearing them.” While Dukoff mentions that the stiff soles held up over gravel and grass, this pair is best suited for casual settings. “I would say this sneaker is more geared toward urban terrain and is best used as an everyday shoe rather than one you'd put through its paces in the great outdoors,” he says.

Sizes:7 to 13 |Colors:4 total |Lacing:Laceless slip-on |Key feature:Extra heel support

• What’s notable: Kuru shoes are popular for their built-in arch support, and users report that these offer good traction on a variety of surfaces.
• What could be better: Some say these run narrow through the toe box and the tongue comes up higher than they’d like on the ankle.

If you want the ease of a slip-on shoe and the cushioning of a sneaker, Kuru’s Atom offers the best of both. Designed with a focus on foot health and preventing pain, Kuru’s sneakers come with built-in arch support and cushioning that molds to your feet over time.

What our tester says: According to Molinaro, the knit upper material is “strong and durable,” and the grips on the bottom of the shoe offer “great traction.” However, he finds that the shoes’ mesh uppers aren’t as breathable as our picks from On and Under Armour, so bear this in mind if keeping your feet cool is a major priority.

Under Armour Charged Assert 9 Running Shoe

Sizes: 7 to 15 | Colors: 21 total | Lacing: Pull-tight laces| Key feature: Breathable mesh upper

• What’s notable: These shoes have breathable mesh uppers, the soles offer great traction and the price can’t be beat.
• What could be better: Some say they can run smaller than previous versions of the shoe, and comment that the quality could be better.

Here’s the thing about walking shoes: You can go cheap, but you may end up with poor cushioning and minimal support—which is a waste of money. To get a great pair with quality materials that last, you typically have to invest $50 to $100. Under Armour’s best-selling Charged Assert shoes hit the mark for an affordable pair that is outfitted with breathable mesh uppers, well-cushioned midsoles and durable outsoles for traction.

What our tester says: Molinaro attests to this pair’s high quality, noting that the mesh uppers “provide great breathability” while the outsoles “offer excellent traction that allows for stability and great grip no matter what surface.” If you want an excellent, no-fuss basic that’s comfortable for everyday, this is a solid pick.

Hoka Clifton 9 Shoes

Sizes:7 to 15 |Colors:15 total |Lacing:Pull-tight laces|Key feature:Plush cushioning

• What’s notable: These popular, highly cushioned shoes are approved by the American Podiatric Medical Association and they’re available in both standard and wide fits.
• What could be better: Some wearers say the heel collar and tongue can press against your ankle.

If you struggle to find sneakers with arch support, the Hoka Clifton 9 is a podiatrist-recommended pick. With a 3-millimeter heel-stack height and rocker sole design, the newest version of this popular sneaker has an ultra-supportive underfoot with responsive foam to absorb impact. The shoe is stamped with the American Podiatric Medical Association (APMA)seal of approval for foot health, and you’ll also benefit from its breathable mesh upper. While it’s available in a regular fit (D), the wide version (EE) is a blissful option for broader feet that require a little more room. “This has a big, cushioned midsole and a wider, fuller platform,” says Siegel. “It has a big toe box, and if you have a wider foot, it may be a good fit.” However, “some people feel unstable in it because it’s so squishy,” Siegel says.

What our tester says: “One of the biggest pros of these sneakers is their ability to absorb impact—they aren’t only comfortable on my feet, but on my calves and knees as well,” says Dukoff. “They're tough, but shockingly light and nimble. My feet were not sweaty after long walks, and were not uncomfortably sweaty (though still a little moist) after a jog.”

Sizes:7 to 15 |Colors:7 total |Lacing:Slip-on |Key feature:Insole that molds to your foot

• What’s notable: These easy-on, easy-off shoes work well if you have flat feet, and the removable Arch Fit insole can be replaced with your own orthotic if you wear them.
• What could be better: The soles don’t offer a lot of traction, so they may not work well on slick surfaces. Also, don’t buy them too large or you may feel the shoe lift at the heel when walking.

The Skechers Arch Fit Waveport is a pull-on walking shoe with stretch laces that allow you to slip the shoe on or off in a hurry. This particular sneaker may offer relief if you have flat feet or are prone to joint and back aches due to its (removable) Arch Fit insole, a podiatrist-certified technology that molds to your feet for a custom fit. Ultimately, the shoe is designed to balance weight across your entire foot for enhanced support and all-day comfort—a flexible rubber outsole ensures that.

What our tester says: “I definitely can see wearing these around all the time, the comfort is emphasized and developed,” says Molinaro. However, he notes that the arch-supportive insole was “a bit of an adjustment,” since it raises the heel more than a conventional pair of sneakers.

Kizik Men's Athens

Sizes:4.5 to 15 |Colors:14 total |Lacing:Slip-on |Key feature:Spring-back heel that alleviates pressure

• What’s notable: If you’re affected by heel pain, the innovative springy heel of this shoe absorbs impact.
• What could be better: Some say that the slip-on design isn’t as supportive as they’d like.

Kizik’s shoes have an innovative feature that actually works—the “cage” at the back cradles your heels and provides a slight lift, so every time you push down, your heel subtly propels back up. This takes pressure off the tender parts of your foot and makes it easier to walk all day.

What our tester says: Despite the springiness of the heel, Dukoff reports a secure fit. “Thanks to a well-cushioned insole and foam padding, the arch support is excellent and impact is absorbed efficiently,” he says. The slip-on design is fuss-free; however, Dukoff mentions that it “limits airflow compared to traditional lace-up sneakers.”

Brooks Ghost Max

Sizes:7 to 15|Colors:7 total |Lacing:Tie laces|Key features:Soft cushioning and built-in stability

• What’s notable: This highly cushioned shoe has a rocker-style sole which can be good for those with limited ankle mobility.
• What could be better: Some say this version of the Ghost runs large.

Brooks recently updated its wildly popular Ghost with tons of extra cushioning and a rocker-style sole, which is contoured to help “rock” your foot forward as you step down and then lift off. Unlike the original Ghosts, this pair is specifically designed for walking. “Brooks shoes are cut a little bit wider in the toe box,” says Siegel. “This can be important because your toes engage a lot when you’re walking and they really need to be able to spread out.”

What our tester says: “I wear Ghost 15s for running and walking but they are technically better suited to running,” says senior fashion editor Kari Molvar. “However, the Max is all about making walking more comfortable and stable. I’ve worn them for a few miles already and could really notice the extra cushioning.” (See below for our take on the Ghost 15, which we recommend for covering long distances if you don’t want a rocker sole).

Brooks Ghost 15

Sizes:7 to 15 |Colors:26 total |Lacing:Tie laces|Key feature:Light, responsive midsole

• What’s notable: The ultra-light design of this shoe makes it comfortable when putting in lots of mileage.
• What could be better: Several users report that the nylon laces come untied too easily, and some say this shoe runs narrow.

If you’re covering longer distances, you’ll want a shoe that absorbs impact, cradles your arches and has a responsive design that makes it easier for your foot to move through heel to toe-off. Also used and recommended by Molvar, Brooks’ Ghost 15 running shoes are ultra light (10 ounces) for running or walking (although, as mentioned above, the lightweight Ghost 15s are “better suited to running.”) The newly revamped midsole is engineered with rubber, air and foam for a smooth, balanced ride and “crash pads” on the outsole so it’s easier to propel forward. “The fit of the Brooks Ghost 15—it’s a neutral shoe—accommodates many different people’s feet,” says Siegel. “There’s a fuller toe box so it doesn’t feel like it squeezes the foot, and it has a slightly narrower heel.” If you have really high arches, however, Siegel says you may need something with even more arch support.

What our tester says: “I can, and did, walk for miles in these sneakers and I also wear them for running as well. Overall, they’re lightweight, supportive, super comfortable and breathable,” says Molvar.

New Balance Fresh Foam X 880v14

Sizes:7 to 16 |Colors:10 total |Lacing:Pull-tight laces|Key feature:Spacious toe box

• What’s notable: The roomy toe box in this model allows toes room to spread out, and the breathable mesh upper allows for good air flow.
• What could be better: The tongue does not have a lot of padding, according to users, and it can slip to the side easily.

Ask foot experts which shoes are best for wide feet and New Balances are frequently at the top of the list. The Fresh Foam X 880v14 comes in four width options, which is especially impressive for a sneaker style, and has a spacious toe box so your feet can spread out without feeling pinched or squished. Add in the bio-based, sustainable foam midsole that creates a pillowy walking cushion, no matter where you’re going. “Both runners and walkers love this shoe,” says Siegel. “They’ve added a bit of cushy foam to it, but you’re not going to feel unstable in it.”

What our tester says: Dukoff—who tested the New Balance Fresh Foam X 880v13 before its v14 update—wore these sneakers on hot days and reports, “The moisture-wicking properties keep my feet dry on both long walks and on jogs, no matter the temperature outside.” Quality-wise, Dukoff gives this pair high marks. “The stitching quality is excellent, contributing to the overall durability of the shoe. I’ve had no issues with wear or tear,” he says. Dukoff also mentions that these sneakers remain secure over a wide range of terrains: “The multidirectional lugs enhance grip, and they exhibit strong traction on both wet and dry surfaces.”

Sizes: 40 to 46 | Colors: 2 total | Laces: Tie laces | Key Feature: Padded collar and tongue

• What’s notable: This sneaker’s rubber sole is more streamlined than many other walking shoes, making it fitting for dressier venues.
• What could be better: The suede construction stains easily and requires some upkeep.

Ok, so these are not your typical walking shoe, but think of these more as a splurgeworthy, comfy-yet-good-looking pair for walking home after a nice dinner out or strolling through Europe. After all, Brunello Cucinelli is known for quality and craftsmanship. “I love these shoes for their elevated look without sacrificing comfort,” says human resources executive Asher Simcoe. “I’ve walked for miles in these without any discomfort.”

Sizes:7 to 15 |Colors:3 total |Lacing:Tie laces |Key feature:Anatomical arch support

• What’s notable: These have stretchy-yet-supportive uppers and an arch booster that helps prevent foot pain.
• What could be better: Orthofeet’s Ortho-Cushion system is sold separately.

A featured pick in our roundup of the best shoes for plantar fasciitis, Othofeet’s Edgewater Stretch shoes feature removable, anatomical arch supports as well as an arch booster, which can tackle both heel and foot pain (specifically caused by pressure) while helping re-align posture. The shoe is designed to fit comfortably with the addition of Orthofeet’s Ortho-Cushion System, offering both an orthotic insole and an ergonomic cushioning sole to dampen impact. The fabric is stretchy to promote a flexible, natural stride and, if you find yourself venturing onto uneven terrain, the rubber outsole should step up to provide a superior grip and keep you upright.

Wolf & Shepherd Crossover Longwing Hybrid Dress Shoes

Sizes:6 to 15 |Colors:7 total |Lacing:Slip-on with no-tie laces |Key feature:Memory foam footbed

• What’s notable: The sleek style and leather upper make these dressy enough for work, and the memory foam footbed keeps wearers comfy for hours.
• What could be better: They’re on the expensive end.

If you’re looking for the comfort of a sneaker with the design of a dress shoe, Wolf & Shepherd specializes in “hybrid” shoes of this type. The Crossover is a bestseller created in collaboration with Steve Nash, and combines a memory foam footbed with a full-grain leather upper and high-traction rubber outsole. It’s a stylish shoe for work days, weekends or even weddings.

Columbia Men's Hatana Max Outdry Shoe

Sizes:7 to 15 |Colors:4 total |Lacing:Tie laces |Key feature:Waterproof, breathable construction

• What’s notable: The waterproof upper keeps feet dry, and directional lugs on the soles help grip wet surfaces.
• What could be better: Some customers say the fit is narrow.

Nothing ruins a walk more than soggy sneakers. If you live in or travel to a wet climate, you’ll want to invest in Columbia’s highly rated Hatana Max Outdry shoes. These sneakers have a closed mesh upper and synthetic overlay to seal out water and wet-dry traction outsole so you can hike, run and scramble over any surface without slipping. Reviewers also comment on how this pair is comfortable for all-day wear but it might run slightly narrow if you have a wide foot.

Brooks Glycerin GTS 21

Sizes: 7 to 15 | Colors: 5 total | Lacing: Tie laces | Key feature: GuideRails support system for stability

• What’s notable: This shoe’s stability technology helps joints move efficiently so you have less discomfort when walking long distances.
• What could be better: Some say the thicker upper can make their feet overheat in warmer weather.

Brooks is a brand beloved by runners, but this shoe is popular for walkers, too. The Brooks Glycerin GTS is a neutral shoe, but it also offers stability. “It has great arch support and lots of cushion,” says Sportech shoe specialist Pedro Olivares, who spends a lot of time on his feet in this model. “My foot is on the wider side—I’m more of a EE—but I can get away with the regular width in this shoe. I’ve been wearing it for eight years.”

Sizes: 7 to 15 | Colors: 12 total | Lacing: Tie laces | Key feature: Springy, responsive ride

• What’s notable: It comes in both regular and wide widths.
• What could be better: Some pairs may have quality control issues, but users say customer service is helpful.

Comfort is key with this Saucony model—it has a soft collar, padded tongue and a plush foam midsole. The redesigned lacing system keeps your foot secure, and the breathable mesh upper is stretchy, supportive and breathes well. “It has nice heel and ankle support and it’s a bit broader through the toe box than many other shoes,” says Olivares. “I like this shoe because the shape of the footbed works well for me—and my foot is shaped like a rowboat paddle,” says Siegel.