Walking is great for both physical and mental health, but the wrong pair of shoes can ruin a walk before you even step out of the front door. Membership to one’s local walking club isn’t required; from walking the dog to browsing the aisles at the grocery store, most people walk just about every day. And if you walk every day, you should own a comfortable pair of walking shoes or sneakers.
The trouble with finding shoes for walking is that it’s an impossibly broad category. All shoes can be walked in, but which shoes should be walked in? Because every foot is different, there’s no singular shoe that will work for everyone. To help figure out how to determine the best walking shoes for various concerns, we consulted Mark Mendeszoon, D.P.M., a multi-board certified podiatrist, surgeon, and physician spokesperson with the American Podiatric Medical Association.
How to Choose the Best Men's Walking Shoes
For starters, Dr. Mendeszoon recommends wearing running shoes for walking. “I just believe that they are better designed, come in different varieties, colors, and materials, and have better mechanical function than typical walking shoes.” Other options include hiking or trail shoes, which “are appropriate for those who will be outside and who are looking for lateral ankle stability and better traction.”
Dr. Mendeszoon also emphasized the importance of trying the shoes on and getting fitted by an expert. Our picks can be purchased online, but make sure to look for options that can be easily returned or exchanged from retailers like Amazon or Zappos, among others. Also, don’t hesitate to purchase two sizes to find the best between them. When trying on shoes, Dr. Mendeszoon notes that there should be a thumbnail length of room from your longest toe, and the shoes should be wide enough to wiggle your toes without pressure. Since feet swell throughout the day, he recommends trying shoes on in the mid-afternoon or evening when feet are their largest to find the optimal fit.
The way you walk also plays a role when picking the best walking shoe. A neutral shoe is designed for a normal step, but Dr. Mendeszoon notes that “people with flatter feet would benefit from shoes that provide more support, and there are stability and motion control shoes that would be the proper selection for people with these foot types.” Stability shoes, he noted, can also be a good option for pronation.
Even armed with this information, the sheer number of walking shoes available to purchase can be overwhelming, which is why we picked out the best walking shoes for men, based on personal experience, expert input, and customer feedback.
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The Best Walking Shoes for Men in 2023
Brooks has been in business for over 100 years and it’s known for its cult following among runners. Renowned for comfort and durability, the Brooks brand comes recommended by Dr. Mendeszoon, who cited the brand’s Addiction style as a top option. The shoes are available in both running and walking versions, but the running version is supportive for either activity with soft cushioning designed to adapt to your feet. Thanks to the supportive shape, they’re also a good option for those who pronate.
Size Range: 7 Narrow-16 X-Wide
Colorways: 3
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
|
Good support for pronation |
Limited color options |
|
Available in walking and running styles |
|
|
Massive size range |
[From $116; amazon.com]
If you’re just looking for shoes to wear to walk the dog or run errands, it’s understandable not to want to splurge on a pair of high-end shoes. However, the Asics GT-1000 offers running performance at a modest price. The shoes are designed for neutral or overpronated feet. Plus, they come in a wide range of colors to suit different tastes. Reviewers found these shoes to be a great value and well suited to a variety of settings.
Size Range: 7-15 X-Wide
Colorways: 20
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
|
Affordable price |
Some customers say that they run small |
|
Breathable and comfortable for walking, running, or jogging |
[From $58; amazon.com]
Nike is known for combining style with performance, and the brand’s Pegasus shoes are a good option for anyone looking for running shoes that don’t look too runner-y. There is a wide range of eye-catching and muted colors to choose from, including shades of white, tan, and gray, as well as more eye-catching colorways like “Hyper Pink” and “Volt.” The shoes have neutral support, medium cushioning, and high responsiveness, making them a good all-around shoe for different kinds of foot shapes.
Size Range: 6-18
Colorways: 14 total, customizable via Nike ID
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
|
Stylish look |
Nike sneakers are notorious for running narrow |
|
Range of color options |
|
|
Good everyday shoes |
[$91 (was $130); nike.com]
Cariuma's Salvas walking sneaker masterfully harmonizes sustainability with classic aesthetics. These vegan kicks feature top-rated leather from a Leather Working Group Gold-rated tannery, natural rubber soles, and 13 different colorways to choose from. A cork and memory foam insole amps up the comfort when walking.
Size Range: 5-13
Colorways: 5
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
|
Comfortable insole |
Large logos might be unappealing to some |
|
Eco-friendly design elements |
[$129; cariuma.com]
Allbirds shoes get rave reviews for their superior comfort and machine washability, but this pair is a real gem because of its convenience. The slip-on Tree Dasher Relay is featherlight and flexible enough to pack in a suitcase, and the lace-free design makes it easy to take off at airport security checkpoints. It's also constructed sustainably: The one-piece upper is crafted from leftover yarns and FSC-certified eucalyptus tree fiber, while the cloud-like midsole is made from carbon-negative EVA cushioning foam.
Size Range: 8-14
Colorways: 6
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
|
Comfortable, easy to get on and off |
Lack in laces may result in loose fit for some |
|
Machine washable |
[$135; allbirds.com]
Kizik has ushered in a whole new era of walking shoes thanks to the brand’s proprietary hands-free technology. It differs from a regular slip-on shoe because it is, in fact, a lace-up sneaker that is put on simply by stepping into it, and with very minimal effort. That makes it the perfect walking shoe for anyone with physical limitations who might otherwise struggle to get (and keep) their shoes on. There’s ample space in the toe box and virtually no restriction in the width thanks to a mesh upper. Despite what the product page says, order your regular size for the best fit. Keep an eye on this brand moving forward as the next one to become a household name.
Size Range: 4.5-15 Wide
Colorways: 5 (with more at kizik.com)
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
|
All-day comfort and breathability |
Not the sharpest-looking |
|
Easy to put on |
|
|
Stability mid-stride |
[From $125; amazon.com]
It’s always a good idea to plan for inclement weather, but when the forecast turns rainy, you’ll be glad you packed a pair of waterproof walking shoes. Skip the rain boots and opt for a pair that’s versatile enough for nearly any activity: light hiking, city walking tours, you name it. On engineered the Cloud 5 Waterproof for a cushioned, stable ride, and it comes with a no-knot lacing system, so you can wear it like a slip-on (traditional laces are also included).
Size Range: 7-12.5
Colorways: 6
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
|
Water-resistant upper blocks rain and splashes |
Not as breathable as other options |
|
Easy to get on and off |
[$170; zappos.com]
Runners and walkers who pronate (roll their foot inward when they step) can benefit from a stability shoe. The Adrenaline is a great stability walking shoe from the expert-recommended running brand Brooks and is made with moderate cushioning for comfort and support. There are a variety of colors to choose from, though stock is limited in some colors. The Adrenaline line is moderately supportive, while the Addiction line is more cushioned, with “pronation support but with some added stability,” according to Brooks.
Size Range: 7-15 Wide
Colorways: 7
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
|
Good stability option |
Limited availability of some colors |
|
Top-rated running shoe brand |
[From $110; rei.com]
As one of the biggest sportswear brands in the world, Adidas has a dizzying number of offerings in the running category, let alone walking. The Ultraboost is one of the brand’s most popular styles and is famous for its cushioned outsole that’s designed to provide good energy return. As a walking shoe, it’s stylish, lightweight and breathable. The shoe uses Continental rubber for its outsole, providing traction and durability. And since even the most durable walking shoes must be thrown out after a while, Adidas has tried to reduce their environmental impact by constructing the shoes from recycled polyester, including plastic from the ocean.
Size Range: 4-18
Colorways: 57
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
|
Street-ready look |
Can be pricey |
|
Plenty of cushioning |
|
|
Durable Continental rubber sole |
[From $100; amazon.com]
Whether you’re going on a trip or just running around town, this fashion-forward twist on Hoka’s popular Clifton is the trainer to beat. The Clifton L Suede retains the brand’s cherished ultra-plush cushioning and thick footbed while reinventing its appearance with an all-suede upper. Opt for one of the monochromatic colorways to make a style statement in this trendy walking shoe.
Size Range: 4.5-14
Colorways: 3
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
|
Plush cushioning |
Suede isn't ideal for wet weather |
|
Stylish suede upper |
[$170; dickssportinggoods.com]
Originally designed as a performance running shoe, New Balance’s 990 V5 has since been eclipsed by modern styles among runners. But it’s still a great, comfortable shoe for walking. Plus, New Balance’s 990 V5 sneakers have become a surprisingly fashionable shoe thanks to the trend of retro aesthetics. The mesh upper makes these shoes breathable while the comfortable midsole is ideal for a day spent on the go. There are a few colors to choose from, but gray is the most sought-after.
Size Range: 7 Narrow-16 XX-Wide
Colorways: 4
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
|
Stylish retro look |
Expensive |
|
Breathable mesh |
|
|
Made in the US |
[From $150; amazon.com]
Reebok’s Floatride Adventure walking shoes are what to throw on to glide from the airport check-in counter to the gate — a potential odyssey if you’re departing from a colossal airport like Atlanta’s Hartsfield-Jackson. Though these sneakers are built for speed, the rugged outsoles are inspired by gravel bikes, so they offer plenty of durability for long days on your feet.
Size Range: 7-12
Colorways: 5
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
|
Outsole is suitable for varied terrain |
Mostly bright colors |
|
Lightweight |
[From $85; amazon.com]
Sandals aren’t suitable for every adventure, but fortunately, Birkenstock's legendary shock-absorbing cork footbed can also be found in a minimalist leather lace-up men's waling shoe. The shoe's flexible, lightweight design accommodates the natural movement of your foot, while the footbed provides excellent arch support and helps improve posture and alignment.
Size Range: 3/3.5-13/13.5
Colorways: 7
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
|
Comfy, supportive footbed |
Cork detailing in heel may wear quickly |
|
Sleek leather upper design |
[From $142; amazon.com]
Hey Dude’s Welsh is a more performance-oriented take on the iconic boat shoe silhouette. At just 4.2 ounces, it’s exceptionally lightweight thanks to the mesh fabric upper that also promotes good airflow and keeps your feet cool and dry. Even if dampness or perspiration occurs, the insole is machine washable, so you can keep these shoes smelling fresh. On the bottom, a full-length studded outsole serves up a dependable grip on docks, city sidewalks, and beyond.
Size Range: 7-14
Colorways: 8
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
|
Lightweight |
No support features |
[From $65; amazon.com]
All the elements that make the New Balance Fresh Foam X an outstanding walking shoe also make it a superb travel sneaker — plus it has an attractive, streamlined aesthetic. A bootie design keeps the shoe snug around your foot and the breathable knit upper bends and stretches where you need it most. The underfoot cushioning, already a superb feature in the previous version of this shoe, was further refined using intricate pressure mapping data. It ensures a comfy ride whether you're heading out for your morning jog or exploring a new city on foot.
Size Range: 7-16
Colorways: 30
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
|
Many colorways to choose from |
Not great for cold weather |
|
Thick, well-cushioned midsole |
[From $90; amazon.com]
Saucony is a running-focused brand, but its sneakers make good options for everyday walking shoes for men. The Ride 16 shoes have neutral support with moderate cushioning, which means they’re plush but not overly pillowy. The rubber outsole and foam midsole provide a cushioned yet responsive step. Plus, there is a wide range of colors to choose from, and the shoes come in full and half sizes.
Size Range: 8-15 Wide
Colorways: 9
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
|
Neutral and moderate cushioning to suit different feet |
Bright colors might not be for everyone |
|
Variety of colors |
[$140; rei.com]
Hoka’s sneakers have an aggressively cushioned sole but a low drop of 4mm, making them one of a few sneakers with high cushioning but a low drop. The brand has become a surprisingly trendy option, even among non-runners, but can keep up with the most sought-after styles. The brand’s Bondi sneakers are thicker and more cushioned than Hoka’s Clifton sneakers, which are lighter in weight and more affordable. Designed for running, these sneakers double as good walking shoes if you find yourself on particularly hard floors or if you prefer extra cushioning.
Size Range: 6 Wide-16.5
Colorways: 23
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
|
Plenty of cushioning |
Pricey |
|
Trendy brand |
Bold look might not be for everyone |
[From $150; amazon.com]
The Apollo Galaxy sneakers from Israeli shoemaker Naot exemplify indulgence for your feet. This slip-on walking shoe for men and women features a removable cork and latex footbed that cradles your foot for maximum comfort, and the sole is designed to flex easily with the natural movement of your stride. It also earned the Seal of Acceptance from the American Podiatric Medical Association (APMA), which means it has been independently vetted and found to promote good foot health.
Size Range: 40 (7)-47 (14)
Colorways: 2
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
|
APMA-certified design |
Limited Color Options |
|
Flexible |
[$165; naot.com]
Veja’s outdoor-inspired Dekkan is where high-performance footwear meets eco-minded innovation. The sturdy upper is crafted from breathable Alveomesh, a tech fabric spun entirely from repurposed plastic bottles; sugar cane and recycled polyester are used in the insole and midsole. The brand also collaborated with Vibram on a unique outsole formulation that uses Amazonian rubber and rice waste. In other words, you’ll walk farther with a smaller footprint.
Size Range: 5-11.5
Colorways: 5
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
|
Made with sustainable materials |
Less cushioning |
[$210; zappos.com]
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