While shoes seem just like another normal thing to rock and compliment your outfit, the type of shoe you commute with can either make or break you. Whether going out for a trek or a short walk, the kind of shoe you wear is one of the most critical things that you need to consider.

With the right footwear, you are likely to enjoy your time outdoors in comfort. However, the wrong shoe can make your walking session disastrous.

Using a running shoe in place of a walking shoe is likely to deliver different results. The two may look similar, but the designs serve two different purposes; the main difference is in the cushioning.

Running shoes are lighter in weight, have more significant arch support and their soles are thicker for shock absorption. On the other hand, walking shoes have a thicker, beveled heel to improve stability and are more flexible towards the ball of the foot, therefore, helping the walker to push off.

Searching for a walking shoe tailored for severe overpronation? Look no further as this casual yet contemporary walking shoe supports low arches and controls overpronation. The shoe features a MoGo midsole cushioning and a slip-resistant outsole thus creating a resounding feeling of sturdiness as you slip your foot inside.

Brook’s Addiction Walker provides a roomy toe box to wiggle your toes for added comfort. It also has ample room to accommodate painful bunions and alleviate the bunion pain. As a result of the additional cushioning and extra support provided, the shoe is quite heavier than other walkers. However, if you seek extra comfort and support, you’ll enjoy the sturdiness of the shoe. It also uses linear platform technology which makes it durable and suitable for overweight people.

The supple full-grain leather upper offers firm support and durability. The shoe’s insole is covered with a mesh fabric to allow for breathability and provide enough cushioning for your foot. There’s a lace-up vamp to ensure you get a customization grip with the aid of the lace-up adjustment capability; that you can customize the fit and keep your feet in place when walking.

Key Features
  • It features a leather material with a full-grained upper side
  • Hook and loop shoe fastening options
  • The shoe is textile and synthetic with a rubber sole
  • Energy-returning MoGo midsole cushioning
Specifications
  • Size Range: 7-15
  • Weight: 14 oz
  • Notable Materials: Leather, mesh
  • Number of Colors: 4
  • Brand: Brooks
Pros
  • The shoe is comfortable enough to enable you to walk with the least pressure experience on your foot
  • Due to shock absorption and resistance, your feet are likely to feel lesser fatigue
  • The lace-up system gives the shoe a snug fit
  • Lightweight
Cons
  • The upper leather surface may wear out quickly if used frequently

If looking for a casual slip-on shoe with enough style for a trip into town, the Merell Jungle shoe is the perfect fit. The shoe is versatile enough to be worn in different places, for instance, around the campsite or the pub. It has a well-built construction and is structured using high-quality materials.

It also features a water-resistant suede leather upper with dual instep goring to allow for a secure yet flexible fit. The suede material is strong and durable but doesn’t provide enough ventilation to the foot. Despite the limitation, the upper fits true to size, feels supportive and delivers an easy to wear slip-on design. The shoes inner lining is made of an antimicrobial solution, which prevents it from smelling bad.

The outsole is made of sturdy M Select material to provide excellent traction and durability. The outsole’s toughness makes the shoe suitable for walking on an imperfect terrain and even in poor weather conditions. The shoe offers midfoot arch support with the shoe featuring EVA midsole for extra shock protection and comfort.

Key Features
  • It features a water-resistant suede leather upper
  • Merell air cushion to give extra comfort to the feet
  • The shoe has a slip-on closure
  • The midsole uses EVA polymer
  • Rubber outsole
Specifications
  • Size Range: 6.5-15
  • Weight: 13 oz
  • Notable Materials: Suede leather
  • Number of Colors: 27
  • Brand: Merell
Pros
  • The shoe is versatile enough to be teamed up with all kinds of outfits
  • The outsole gives the perfect grip on all sorts of surfaces
  • The antimicrobial solution makes the shoe stink-free
  • The shoe fits true to size
Cons
  • The insoles are stiff
  • The soles may go down in a short period

The shoe is made of synthetic and fabric materials and has fine stitching details that add to the style of the shoe. It features Goga Mat Technology with high rebound cushioning. The forefoot is roomy to allow for an easy on/off and an enhanced fit. The underfoot features an ortholiteTM footbed for maximum comfort while an antimicrobial sockliner prevents foot odour. The shoe upper features a breathable mesh for a cooling effect.

The midsole offers excellent cushioning support and shock absorption. What makes the shoe stand out from the rest is the flexible outsole which has GOimpulse sensors that offer enhanced sensory feedback. The shoe also features memory foam padding around the heel for a custom-feel fit. The fit is therefore amazing, and the shoes are so light and cushy such that you won’t feel like you’re wearing shoes.

The shoe features a rubber sole that provides grip and traction on any surface. It also comes in extra wide making it suitable for larger feet. So, if looking for a walking shoe with superior performance and practicality, then Sketchers Go Walk slip-on is the perfect fit.

Key Features
  • Rubber sole for grip and traction
  • Ortholite footbed for maximum comfort
  • Antimicrobial liner to prevent foot odor
  • Enhanced sensory feedback through the flexible outsole and Goimpulse sensors
Specifications
  • Size Range: 5-12
  • Weight: 4.5 oz
  • Notable Materials: Fabric/Synthetic
  • Number of Colors: 13
  • Brand: Skechers
Pros
  • Mesh upper to allow for breathability
  • Variety of sizes makes it easy to select the perfect fit
  • The technology used in the making of the shoe keeps ankle pain or sore ankles at bay
  • Slip-on technology makes it easy to put on the shoe
Cons
  • The shoes squeak while you walk with them

If you’re looking for a sleek walking shoe that offers you maximum comfort during your walking session, then Reebok Ever Road DMX is a perfect choice. The shoe uses DMX Flex Technology, an adaptive technology that uses air pockets to enhance shock attenuation. It also features a mesh upper to allow for breathability and a lightweight feel. Reebok DMX also features an angled heel cup to enhance walking comfort and fit.

The Memory Tech LT sockliner heightens the shock absorption property of the midsole and keeps your foot comfortable during long periods of use. Reebok Men’s DMX interior lining is designed with a Speedwick fabric to help maintain a comfortable environment for the foot.

The rubber outsole features mirrored moving air pods for added stability and grip. The shoes’ streamlined sole helps cushion heel-to-toe. One thing to love about the shoe is that it’s lightweight and you won’t feel like it’s weighing your feet down.

Key Features
  • DMX Flex Technology for shock attenuation
  • Upper mesh to allow for breathability
  • Angled heel cup to enhance comfort and fit
  • Lightweight construction
Specifications
  • Size Range: 7-13
  • Weight: 9 oz
  • Notable Materials: Mesh
  • Number of Colors: 2
  • Brand: Reebok
Pros
  • The stylish design provides versatility
  • The shoe is well-suited for those with wider feet
  • The rubber sole offers flexibility and grip
  • It is lightweight such that it doesn’t weigh you down
Cons
  • The upper is too thin and might not provide the desired support

These shoes have some outstanding features which make it the perfect walking shoe. They are made of 100 percent leather and are lightweight so that your feet won't experience pain or discomfort. The shoes are engineered for a woman’s unique foot shape, muscle movement and build.

They feature a rubber outsole to offer more traction during walking. The shoes have lightweight EVA midsole to enable you to get responsive cushioning with every step. They are 100% leather and mesh, which makes them more durable. They feature a lace-up system to enable you to customize the shoe to your perfect fit.

The upper features a breathable mesh for aeration and has supportive leather overlays. The memory foam sockliner supports your arch and absorbs shock hence providing maximum comfort to your foot. They are available in different impressive colors from which you can choose your perfect pair.

Key Features
  • 100 percent leather and mesh
  • Rubber outsole for traction and grip
  • A lightweight moulded EVA midsole
  • Memory foam sockliner for arch support
  • A lace-up walking shoe with a breathable upper
Specifications
  • Size Range: 5-11
  • Weight: 9 ounces
  • Notable Materials: Leather and mesh
  • Number of Colors: 12
  • Brand: Ryka
Pros
  • Designed with excellent materials making them more durable
  • They have a unique mechanism to make you experience enough comfort when walking
  • They are lightweight to allow you to walk for extended periods
  • The shoes have a variety of impressive colours
Cons
  • The heels may separate only after a short period of use

These men’s shoes are the perfect combination of comfort and protection for your feet. The shoe, equipped with a full-grain leather upper, features a padded collar and tongue for extra support. They also feature a hook and loop closure that allows for an easy on/off and customisable fit.

The shoes fully accommodate orthotics as they provide a removable cushioned insole with arch support. For additional support, these walking shoes offer an extended heel counter and built-in heel stabiliser. The EVA midsole is lightweight and provides sufficient shock absorption which helps reduce foot fatigue.

The rubber outsole provides excellent traction on various surfaces. The shoes also have wide widths which makes it possible to select the perfect fit. The double strap style enables one to wear the footwear casually or formally. Based on the features, the shoe may be appropriate for certain foot conditions like overpronation, flat feet, arthritis, bunions and callus.

Key Features
  • Full-grain leather upper with padded collar and tongue for extra support
  • Hook and hoop closure system to allow for a customisable fit
  • Removable cushioned insole with arch support
  • Rubber outsole for traction
Specifications
  • Size Range: 7-15
  • Weight: 14 oz
  • Notable Materials: Leather
  • Number of Colors: 4
  • Brand: Propet
Pros
  • Very comfortable shoes that are easy to put on and take off
  • Perforated upper allows for breathability
  • The shoes' construction is for active seniors
  • The hook and loop closure system allows for a customisable fit
Cons
  • May not be as durable as other brands

Saucony is not a stranger in the running world. The brand has produced some of the best walking and running shoes in the game. You can never go wrong with a pair of Saucony shoes either for everyday use or for special activities such as aerobics. You only need to pay attention to the features.

Saucony are breathable, flexible, and comfortable, so you can wear them on a daily basis without hurting your foot. Their cushioned outsoles help absorb shock and offer additional comfort. Additionally, the shoes fit well giving you additional balance and stability.

These stylish shoes are made of full grain leather. They cover your ankles, offering the much needed support and protection. Better yet, they are available in three different colors. Saucony may not be attractive to everyone, but they are a great pick for walking.

Key Features
  • 100 percent Full-grain leather
  • Rubber sole
  • Features offset of 12 mm
  • Walk-Trac comfort outsole
Specifications
  • Weight: 2 pounds
  • Notable Materials: Full-grain leather
  • Number of Colors: 3
  • Brand: Saucony
Pros
  • Durable
  • Comfortable
  • Breathable
  • Lightweight
  • Arch support
Cons
  • Only 3 color options available

The New Balance MW577 walking shoes feature high-quality materials and a user-friendly design making it suitable for different activities like hiking or running. The shoe is one of New Balance products explicitly designed with comfort in mind. It’s made of leather making it durable and long-lasting. They feature a synthetic sole, thick heel and provide enough traction to prevent you from slipping and falling.

The shoe design seeks to help those with feet and walking problems. They offer excellent lumbar support and are highly recommendable for those who have experienced prior pain in their feet and legs. The shoes are Velcro which means that you can easily put them on/off without having to worry about tying shoelaces. New Balance 577 uses ABZORB technology cushioning in the heel for exceptional shock absorption.

The shoes also feature a polyurethane midsole for stable cushioning while the reflective detailing enhances your visibility. The Walking Strike Technology used in the outsole helps stabilize and guide the foot through the walking gait cycle.

Key Features
  • Leather
  • Heel section features ABZORB Technology for shock absorption
  • Synthetic sole ensures comfort
  • Hook and loop on the vamp
  • Padded interior for a comfortable fit
Specifications
  • Size Range: 7-15
  • Weight: 2 pounds
  • Notable Materials: Leather
  • Number of Colors: 3
  • Brand: New Balance
Pros
  • Sufficient room and enough padding provide maximum comfort hence reducing fatigue and pressure on the foot muscles
  • The shoes have a wide toe box allowing the feet to move naturally
  • You can replace the removable sockliner with orthotics
  • The shoe’s overall construction is suitable for the elderly
Cons
  • Rubber and leather won’t last for a long time if frequently used
  • The tongue is short and bulky

The Asics men’s gel walking shoes are comfortable and cushioned to keep your feet stable and enable you to walk further. The shoes have a leather upper that keeps your foot well-protected. The upper features perforations which allow for proper ventilation, therefore, allowing moisture to escape. The upper also features an Ortholite sockliner that provides ergonomic, plush step-in comfort.

The midsole offers Asics’ unique Gel Cushioning system for shock absorption. The midfoot support panel ensures your feet stay in place during your walking session. Rearfoot Gel cushioning system attenuates impacting shock, which allows for a smooth transition throughout the gait cycle.

The shoe features a durable rubber outsole that supplies grip and traction on various surfaces. The durable layered construction also reduces chafing and skin irritation. The essence of traction is to ensure you make short, sharp movements without putting a strain on your body. The internal heel counter prevents the shoe from slipping off when walking.

Key Features
  • Leather upper
  • Lace-up closure
  • Rubber outsole for traction
  • The midsole offers Asics’ unique Gel cushioning system for shock absorption
  • Ortholite sockliner to provide ergonomic, plush comfort
Specifications
  • Size Range: 6-15
  • Weight: 10.25 oz
  • Notable Materials: Leather
  • Number of Colors: 2
  • Brand: Asics
Pros
  • The internal heel counter ensures the shoe doesn’t slip off when walking
  • The rubber outsole [provides excellent traction
  • Durable layered construction reduces chafing and skin irritation
  • Perforations on the upper allow for aeration
Cons
  • The collar is too stiff
  • The shoe is too narrow through midfoot

If looking for a high-quality, lightweight shoe that doesn’t make your feet tired after prolonged walking, then New Balance 877 is the best deal. The shoe combines an athletic design with heritage-influenced appearance. It’s a classic synthetic and mesh walking shoe with seamless logos at sides. It uses ABZORB technology to cushion the midsole, therefore, protecting your feet against shock impact. The removable insole provides an extra layer of comfort for long distances.

The shoe features a suede and upper mesh for increased airflow, which makes it suitable for those with sweaty feet. The padded tongue and collar provide comfort and excellent support and also prevent your foot from slipping out of the shoe. The shoe uses Walking Strike Path Technology to improve stability with a rubber line that runs through the outsole hence guiding the heel-to-feet transition.

It features a traditional lace-up closure system ensuring a snug fit. It’s available from narrow to wide options making it easy to find the perfect fit. The shoe’s toe box has ample space to accommodate for custom orthotics, prosthetics and braces. The versatility and variety of sizes make them an ideal men’s walking shoe.

Key Features
  • Suede and mesh upper
  • Use traditional laces to secure the foot to the users’ preference
  • ABZORB technology for midsole cushioning and shock absorption
  • Rubber outsole to bring flexibility and traction to the shoe
Specifications
  • Size Range: 7-15
  • Weight: 12.15 oz
  • Notable Materials: Suede, Mesh
  • Number of Colors: 1
  • Brand: New Balance
Pros
  • Suede and mesh upper allow for foot ventilation
  • Uses traditional lace system to secure the foot to the user’s preference
  • Rubber outsole for traction and grip
  • Variety of sizes and work well with custom orthotics for added support
Cons
  • Foot chamber is inadequately ventilated

Walking shoes feature a cushioned yet stable platform and a supportive yet flexible upper. The overall shoe design supports walking or sitting for long periods. They employ stability features that help those with gait issues to walk around comfortably. When choosing walking shoes, there are several factors you need to put into consideration.

The shoe upper is the first thing you need to consider. A comfortable upper ought to keep your feet protected, comfortable and relaxed. Some pairs use soft fabric or leather material on the upper while others might be a combination of either mesh, textile, leather, and synthetic materials. The materials used should be pliable to aid in the natural flexibility of the foot. If you fancy a more open upper construction, consider models with more mesh material.

The collar should also have padding on it to support the Achilles tendons and prevent your skin from chafing. A padded collar will also prevent the back of your foot from slipping out of the shoe. Also, consider the type of closure of the shoe. Some shoes feature a traditional lace-up system, while others have hook-and-loop closure. However, if you don’t fancy laces, you can opt for slip-on walking trainers as they allow you to slide in your foot and go.

It’s also vital to consider whether the walking shoe has an ample cushioning. What characterizes the midsole is its ability to bounce. The best midsole should provide adequate shock absorption to prevent your muscles and joints from straining. As for the sole material, it should have the ideal amount of firmness to deliver a steady and responsive platform. Most walking shoes feature a removable insole which is usually molded in the shape of the foot and meant to provide arch support. A removable insole is advantageous in that you can replace it with custom orthotics to achieve maximum comfort.

As for the support and stability of the shoe, it’s essential to consider the type of foot pronation. Each pronation type requires the right support from the shoe. For neutral pronators, walking shoes with neutral support are the best as they prevent foot fatigue, pain or discomfort. If you’re a moderate pronator, stability walking shoes do the magic for you as they are well padded and have a small profusion under the arch without affecting your natural foot motion. For those with severe pronation, walking shoes with control add-on are the best pick; they have a firmer and thicker midsole and use unique technologies to stabilize both the midfoot section of the foot and the heel.

The correct fit and sizing are also critical when picking a walking shoe. A shoe that’s too loose will slip off while one that’s too tight might cause foot problems such as bunions, corns or callus. The correct sizing ought to be snug fit yet non-restrictive at the rear foot to keep your heel comfortable and steady. On the other hand, the toe box should provide enough space to allow the natural movement of your toes when walking.

Other factors to consider are the shoe weight, overall design, color, and budget. With thousands of walking shoes in the market, choosing the best one can be a daunting task. We’ve however rounded the ten best ones from which you can select.

Resources— The Strategist, Runner’s World

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