The best walking shoes for both men and women in 2025 deliver unbeatable comfort, support, and pain relief, according to experts and thousands of real users.
Whether you’re walking for exercise, work, travel, or all-day comfort, these 9 shoes stand out for their innovative design, foot health features, and proven user satisfaction.
Why Walking Shoe Choice Matters in 2025
- Prevents foot, knee, and back pain
- Increases comfort for long walks or all-day wear
- Supports proper gait and posture
- Reduces risk of blisters, plantar fasciitis, and injuries
- Helps you walk farther, easier, and with less fatigue
Let’s dive into the top picks, with clear advice on who should buy—and who should avoid—each model
1. Hoka Clifton 10 – Best Overall Walking Shoe
- Why It’s Best for Walking
- Ultra-light CMEVA foam: Feels “cloud-like” underfoot without bulk.
- Meta-Rocker sole: Propels you forward, easing joint stress.
- Wide, stable base: Ideal for daily walks, errands, or long hours.
- Breathable mesh: Keeps feet cool and blister-free.
- APMA Seal: Trusted for plantar fasciitis and joint health.
- What Experts Say:
“The Clifton 10 is the gold standard for all-day comfort and injury prevention.”
— Runner’s World - Users Say:
“Its very comfortable, light-weight and thick cushion provides support … feels like walking on a cloud.” — Zappos
“No more foot pain after long walks—best shoes I’ve ever worn.” — Amazon
| Who Should Buy | Anyone wanting ultra-light, plush cushioning for daily walks or recovery runs. Neutral walkers needing comfort without extra weight. |
| Who Should Avoid | Heel-strikers wanting a bouncy, responsive ride. Severe overpronators needing extra stability. |
2. Hoka Bondi 9 – Best for Cushioning & Heel Pain
- Why It’s Best for Walking
- Maximal 40mm+ foam: Absorbs shock and cushions every step
- Rocker sole: Helps relieve pressure on heels and arches
- Slip-resistant SR version: Great for nurses and shift workers
- Best for chronic heel pain and long shifts
- What Experts Say:
“Unmatched softness and support for those with plantar fasciitis or who stand all day.”
— Runner’s World - Users Say:
“Feels like walking on the cloud … keeps his knees, ankles and feet aligned properly.” — Verywell Health
“12-hour shifts—no more heel pain. Worth every penny!” — Amazon
| Who Should Buy | – Walkers who stand or walk long hours on hard surfaces. – Anyone needing maximum shock absorption (heel pain, plantar fasciitis). – Narrow or standard feet seeking a snug, locked-in fit. |
| Who Should Avoid | People with wide feet or bunions (tapered toe box). Fans of firmer, more responsive soles. |
3. New Balance 990v6 – Best for Wide Feet & All-Day Support
- Why It’s Best for Walking
- Multi-width sizing: Narrow to XX-Wide for both genders
- ABZORB/ENCAP foam: Supportive and stable for heavy walkers
- Broad toe box: Prevents bunion and arch pain
- Classic, durable style: Perfect for all-day use
- What Experts Say:
“Unmatched fit and support—top pick for flat or wide feet.”
— NYMag Strategist - Users Say:
“Fits my very high arch … best for hard-to-fit feet.” — Zappos
“Wider than most brands. Helped my arch and knee pain.” — Self
| Who Should Buy | Those needing true multi-width sizing (narrow to XX-wide). Flat, wide, or high-arched feet needing premium all-day support. |
| Who Should Avoid | Budget shoppers (premium price). Runners wanting high energy return or bouncy foam for fast walking. |
4. Brooks Ghost 17 – Best Walk/Run Hybrid
- Why It’s Best for Walking
- DNA Loft v3 foam: Cushy, bouncy, and ideal for walking and light running
- Roomy toe box: Prevents blisters on long urban walks
- Mesh upper: Breathable for hot weather and sweat control
- APMA certified for foot health
- What Experts Say:
“Most reliable shoe for walking and running—trusted by millions.”
— Men’s Health - Users Say:
“Cushy from Day One—perfect for errands or treadmill walks.” — Zappos
“Perfect for city walks—no break-in, no blisters.” — Amazon
| Who Should Buy | Walkers who may occasionally jog. Neutral feet wanting reliable, daily comfort. |
| Who Should Avoid | Those wanting a snappy, propulsive ride. Serious overpronators needing extra stability. |
5. Saucony Guide 18 – Best for Stability & Flat Feet
- Why It’s Best for Walking
- Medial support post: Corrects flat feet and overpronation
- PWRRUN foam: Balances cushion with firmness for control
- Mesh upper: Lightweight, cool, and blister-resistant
- What Experts Say:
“Rare balance of structure and cushion for flat feet or stability needs.”
— Runner’s World - Users Say:
“Stable, and feel extremely supportive on my flat, plantar-fasciitis prone feet!” — Amazon
“Arch/knee pain significantly reduced over months of use.” — Zappos
| Who Should Buy | Light pronators or flat feet needing mild stability. Walkers wanting firm support at a fair price. |
| Who Should Avoid | Wide feet (runs slightly narrow). Fans of ultra-soft, plush shoes. |
6. Altra Lone Peak 9 – Best for Wide Toes & Natural Stride
- Why It’s Best for Walking
- Zero-drop platform: Promotes a natural stride and upright posture
- FootShape toe box: Extra-wide front prevents bunion and toe pressure
- Trail and urban grip: Great for hiking, parks, or city walks
- What Experts Say:
“Lets your feet move as nature intended. Best for wide or bunion-prone feet.”
— NYMag Strategist - Users Say:
“Fits wide feet perfectly—the only shoe I don’t blister in.” — Altra
“Best shoe I’ve found for bunions and long days.” — Amazon
| Who Should Buy | Zero-drop and natural gait fans. Walkers with bunions, wide feet, or who want extra toe space. Trail and mixed-surface walkers. |
| Who Should Avoid | Heel-strikers needing more under-heel cushion. Anyone needing extra ankle or arch support. |
7. Skechers Go Walk Joy – Best Budget Slip-On
- Why It’s Best for Walking
- Slip-on mesh and 5Gen foam: Easy comfort, feather-light
- Machine washable: Ideal for travel, errands, or messy conditions
- Accommodates swelling, bunions, and sensitive feet
- What Experts Say:
“Best slip-on for bunions, flat feet, and budget buyers.”
— People - Users Say:
“Very comfortable. … I like that you don’t have to tie the laces. … fit and breathe comfortably.” — Amazon
“I can walk all day—no more sore feet!” — People
| Who Should Buy | Anyone wanting slip-on comfort and flexibility Elders, people with swelling, bunions, or arthritis Budget-conscious walkers |
| Who Should Avoid | Walkers needing strong arch support or a locked-in fit Very hot/humid climates (breathability moderate) |
8. Adidas Ultraboost 5X – Best Plush Foam for Fitness Walking
- Why It’s Best for Walking
- Boost foam: Absorbs impact, adds bounce to every step
- Primeknit upper: Hugs the foot without tightness, perfect for all-day city wear
- Style plus substance: Works for the gym, work, and casual
- What Experts Say:
“Still top for plush, energetic walking.”
— Runner’s World - Users Say:
“So comfortable and flexible. … I usually get shin splints … not anymore.” — Amazon
“Most comfortable shoes I’ve ever worn for city walking.” — Amazon
| Who Should Buy | Walkers wanting plush, responsive foam and sporty style. Forefoot/midfoot strikers. City commuters or those on their feet all day. |
| Who Should Avoid | Performance-focused walkers (better energy return elsewhere). Wide feet or those needing a tall toe box. |
9. Asics Gel-Kayano 31 – Best for Stability & Plantar Fasciitis
- Why It’s Best for Walking
- Dual-density foam + GEL: Ultimate shock absorption for overpronators
- Firm heel counter: Keeps your stride aligned and reduces risk of injury
- Trusted for plantar fasciitis, high arches, or joint pain
- What Experts Say:
“Best for overpronators and injury prevention.”
— Tom’s Guide - Users Say:
“I walk 3-4 miles every day, and these sneakers have significantly reduced my foot pain.” — Zappos
“They last months longer than cheaper shoes, worth every dollar.” — Amazon
| Who Should Buy | – Overpronators needing plush stability. – Heel strikers or those needing ankle/midfoot support. – People with plantar fasciitis or joint pain. |
| Who Should Avoid | Forefoot strikers wanting a lightweight, low-drop feel. Budget shoppers (premium price). Walkers with extra-wide toes. |
Quick Comparison Table
| Shoe Model | Best For | Expert Quote | Who Should Buy | Who Should Avoid |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Hoka Clifton 10 | Overall comfort | “Gold standard” – RW | Anyone seeking soft, stable comfort | Fans of firm/minimal shoes |
| Hoka Bondi 9 | Cushion/heel pain | “Unmatched softness” – RW | Chronic pain/long shifts | Firm, responsive fans |
| New Balance 990v6 | Wide/support | “Unmatched fit” – NYMag | Wide, flat, or high-arched feet | Minimalist shoe fans |
| Brooks Ghost 17 | Walk/run hybrid | “Most reliable” – Men’s Health | Walking + jogging | Stability/overpronators |
| Saucony Guide 18 | Stability/flat feet | “Rare balance” – RW | Flat/pronating feet | Barefoot/zero-drop fans |
| Altra Lone Peak 9 | Wide toes/natural | “Best for bunions” – NYMag | Bunions/wide/natural gait | Ankle support seekers |
| Skechers Go Walk Joy | Budget/slip-on | “Best slip-on” – People | Elderly/budget/travel | Runners, arch support need |
| Adidas Ultraboost 5X | Plush/city walks | “Top for plush walks” – RW | City, fitness, style fans | Motion-control seekers |
| Asics Gel-Kayano 31 | Stability/pain relief | “Best for overpronators” – Tom’s | Plantar fasciitis/stability | Minimalist/ultra-wide toes |
2025 Trends & Tips
- Eco materials: Most brands now offer recycled mesh and foam
- Wide sizing: Nearly all top models come in wide/extra-wide options for both genders
- Free returns: Most online retailers offer 30–60 day trials for risk-free fit