Best Walking Shoes For Men 2024

Best Walking Shoes For Men 2024

While the market is brimming with running sneakers and cross trainers, the best walking shoes for men—including our top pick, the On Cloud 5—offer better durability and support for morning commutes, long treks or strolls around the block. Investing in supportive walking shoes can help maximize your steps and prevent injuries, so it’s important to find the pair that best suits your needs.

We tested the best walking shoes for men to find which ones offer more durability and support than … [+] regular shoes.

ILLUSTRATION: FORBES / PHOTO: RETAILERS

When making our selections for this list, we spoke to podiatrists and had Forbes Vetted staffers test multiple pairs firsthand, evaluating everything from flex points to shock absorbency to insole footbeds. Below, see our top recommendations for the best shoes for men, including Kuru Atoms slip-on and the back pain-alleviating Skechers Arch Fit Waveports. By the way: We’ve also rounded up the best walking shoes for women, too.

MOST POPULAR

Sizes: 7 to 14| Colors: 13 total, including Glacier and Black | Lacing: 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 shoe 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, the Cloud 5 is super lightweight, sleek and eco-conscious—around 45% of the materials in them are recycled.

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

Allbirds Merino Wool Runners

Sizes: 8 to 14 | Colors: 8 total, including True Black and Dapple Grey | Lacing: Tie laces| Key feature: Soft, stretchy wool upper

  • What’s notable: This style has a moisture-wicking insole, and if your shoes ever get dirty or smelly, they’re also machine washable.
  • What could be better: Allbirds score style points, but they are not stable enough for more 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 fashioned from 100% post-consumer recycled polyester. Beyond that, the 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.


KURU Footwear

Kuru Atom Slip-On

Sizes: 7 to 13 | Colors: 4 total, including Midnight Blue and Lead Grey | 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.


Amazon

Under Armour Charged Assert 9 Running Shoe

Sizes: 7 to 15 | Colors: 21 total, including Academy and Black | 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: Reviewers say they can run smaller than previous versions of the shoe, and some 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.


Sizes: 7 to 15 | Colors: 15 total, including Coastal Sky and Flame | 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 3mm 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.

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.”


US Skechers

Skechers Arch Fit Waveport Sneaker

Sizes: 7 to 15 | Colors: 7 total, including Navy and Black/Gray | 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, be careful you 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.


Sizes: 4.5 to 15 | Colors: 14 total, including Slate Gray and Blackout | 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

Brooks Men’s Ghost Max

Sizes: 7 to 15| Colors: 7 total, including Grey and Black | 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.

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

Brooks Men’s Ghost 15 Neutral Running Shoe

Sizes: 7 to 15 | Colors: 26 total, including Flintstone and Black | 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.

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

New Balance Fresh Foam X 880v13

Sizes: 7 to 16 | Colors: 10 total, including NB Navy and Phantom | 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 880v13 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.

What our tester says: Dukoff, whose worn these sneakers on hot days, 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.”


More Top Picks To Consider

Every guy has different needs when it comes to walking shoes. If the sneakers we selected above don’t work for you, we rounded up some additional picks that are highly rated and popular with readers.

Ortho Feet

Orthofeet Edgewater Stretch Shoes

Sizes: 7 to 15 | Colors: 3 total, including Blue and Black | 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

Wolf & Shepherd Crossover Longwing Hybrid Dress Shoes

Sizes: 6 to 15 | Colors: 7 total, including Honey and Black | 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: If you live in a hot climate, these may not be ideal.

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

Columbia Men’s Hatana Max Outdry Shoe

Sizes: 7 to 15 | Colors: 4 total, including Mosstone and Black | 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.


Why Trust Forbes Vetted

  • We research, test and thoroughly analyze the best sneakers, dress shoes and boots on the market, made evident by our robust catalog of footwear stories.
  • The publication of this article was overseen by senior fashion editor Kari Molvar, who holds a certificate in fashion styling from the Business of Fashion.
  • We frequently tap our internal expert sources to gain firsthand insight on the products we feature. For this piece, we recruited Forbes Vetted audience development manager Spencer Dukoff and account manager Rich Molinaro to test out several pairs of walking shoes and share their in-depth feedback.
  • This article is regularly refreshed to keep all product details and prices current. During its January 2024 update, fashion writer Claire Epting added pros and cons to each pick to make your purchasing decision easier. This story was most recently updated in February 2024.

How We Chose The Best Walking Shoes For Men

  • We relied on independent testing, expert advice and online reviews when selecting the best walking shoes for men.
  • We took Dukoff and Molinaro’s testing experiences into account when assembling this list. In addition, Molvar shared two of her own personal recommendations: the Brooks Ghost Max and the Brooks Ghost 15.
  • We consulted two board-certified podiatrists for their insight into key characteristics to look for in walking shoes, specifically focusing on injury and pain prevention.
  • We cross-referenced our testers’ experiences with online reviews to ensure each pick comes highly rated by customers. All of the pairs on this list have earned an average rating of at least 4 out of 5 stars.
  • We performed exhaustive research on walking shoe models both new and old, scrutinizing designs, features and specs that set each shoe apart from the rest to ensure this list encompasses the best options.

What To Consider About Men’s Walking Shoes

While there are many features to consider when choosing the best shoes for your needs, we focused on some key specs:

Size And Fit

Getting the appropriate size and achieving the best possible fit will go a long way toward ensuring you’re comfortable and injury-free. “Make sure the toes have room to spread out in walking shoes,” says Westchester, New York-based podiatrist and foot and ankle surgeon Dr. Elisa Kavanagh. “You don’t want irritation or rubbing, and the right fit also preserves your toenails.”

Unless you require orthotic insoles or a special shoe insert, you should choose your normal size in a walking shoe. “In terms of fit length, you want to be able to fit your thumb in front of your big toe at the toe of your shoe,” says Kavanagh. Sizing often differs slightly from brand to brand, so we recommend checking out the retailer’s notes and customer reviews to see if you should go up or down a half size. If your foot is especially narrow or wide, you may want to go with a walking shoe that is available in different widths. Our top pick for best shoe for wide feet, the New Balance Fresh Foam X 880v13 comes in four widths, for example.

Our pick for Best Walking Shoe For Men With Wide Feet, The New Balance Fresh Foam X880v13 stands out … [+] because it comes in four different widths and can accommodate a variety of foot shapes.

Spencer Dukoff For Forbes Vetted

Support

When choosing walking shoes, you never want to wear anything too flat. “As you get older, the Achilles tendon tends to get tighter, and men can often have problems with that,” says Kavanagh. “Ideally, you want some lift at the heel and a thick-soled shoe with lots of cushion.” This can be particularly important if you have heel pain. “People who have plantar fasciitis—which is inflammation of the plantar fascia, the large ligament on the bottom of the foot—develop it from wearing flat shoes or no shoes,” says Kavanagh. “Adding a bit of lift underneath the insole can typically resolve a lot of foot pain within one week.”

Similarly, you want to be sure you have support at the midfoot. “Always look for something with arch support,” Kavanagh says. “When we don’t have support underneath the arches of our feet, we tend to pronate, which means your ankles roll inward over your feet. This can lead to ankle arthritis, posterior tibial tendonitis and medial knee pain.” By realigning your foot under your ankle with a good pair of walking shoes, you can eliminate a lot of discomfort.

Our tester loved the Forbes Clifton 9 for its exceptional support through the midfoot.

Spencer Dukoff For Forbes Vetted

Sole

Think about the surfaces you’ll be wearing your walking shoes most often. Will you be on pavement, trails, a treadmill, or walking through your office? For all, you’ll want a grippy tread to keep you secure, and for more uneven terrain in particular, you’ll want to be sure you have a stable shoe. “I like for shoes to be able to pass the two-finger test,” says board-certified podiatrist and foot and ankle surgeon Dr. Ari Rubinstein. “If you can bend and twist your shoes with two fingers it’s too flimsy. A shoe shouldn’t bend too easily.”

If you have limited mobility and range of motion at your ankle, you may benefit from a walking shoe with a rocker sole. “It takes the pressure off of the back of the leg and allows you to get over the foot without bending the ankle as much,” says Rubinstein.

Colors

If you intend to wear your walking shoes for other activities—such as going to work or out to dinner on the weekends—you’ll want to choose a color that’s versatile and complements other shades well. Our advice: Stick to neutrals, such as black, grey and white. If you’ll primarily wear your shoes for walking on the treadmill or outdoors, you may be more inclined to choose bolder colors or patterns. Just keep in mind that lighter colors tend to show dirt easier than darker tones but they also add a bit of additional visibility, which can help keep you safe.

Upper Fabric

If you tend to have sweaty feet, pay particular attention to the upper fabric in shoes you purchase. Look for things like breathable performance mesh to keep you comfortable on longer walks or long days on your feet. Some styles, like the On Cloud 5, offer antimicrobial mesh to prevent shoes from getting stinky. If you’ll be walking through water on trails, consider shoes with water protection like a layer of GoreTex to provide water resistance.

The On Cloud 5 comes with both bungee laces and traditional laces, and it has an antimicrobial mesh … [+] upper to stave off stinky shoe smells.

Rich Molinaro For Forbes Vetted

Lacing

Certain shoes, like the On Cloud 5, come with a pull cord lacing option, which are designed to help you slip in and tighten your shoes quickly, without fuss. Traditional laces require more effort but they tend to hold your foot in place better and they can be adjusted in different areas to accommodate your foot shape. “I prefer traditional laces to bungee laces,” says Rubinstein. “Bungees may not provide enough stability while walking.”


Can I Wear Running Shoes For Walking?

You can, but it may be best to have a dedicated pair for walking and a separate pair for running, according to Kavanagh. Although running and walking shoes are both designed with comfort, fit and function in mind, they differ somewhat in design. Walking shoes generally feature a more supportive upper to protect your feet on unstable terrain, with a plush insole and increased tread on the outsole. They should also be flexible to promote unhindered movement with every step.

Running shoes, on the other hand, are typically made with a more breathable upper to let air circulate and reinforced cushioning to protect your joints against repetitive impact. You’re also likely to see more variation in the heel-to-toe height on running shoes, and more design elements will focus on your movement biometrics during a run. “In my opinion, a well-padded running shoe is just as good as a walking shoe,” says Kavanagh.


How Often Should I Replace My Walking Shoes?

“It’s a good idea to replace walking shoes every six months or so to avoid injuries,” says Kavanagh. “We typically wear our shoes for more than just one hour a day, and they compress and wear out pretty quickly.” Beyond the obvious wear and tear that includes rips, holes and loss of grip, the American Academy of Podiatric Sports Medicine (AAPSM) recommends retiring your walking shoes after 300 to 500 miles of walking. Look for signs of unevenness on a flat surface and creasing that suggests they’re no longer fit for all those miles. The AAPSM also suggests regularly checking the outer sole, midsole, heel and shank for signs of wear.

Do I Need Shoes Designed Specifically For Men?

While many of the features are the same for both sexes, the best walking shoes for men have been designed with a men’s foot as the sample or mold. This helps ensure the sizing is correct and other anatomical details align with the way your feet are built. However, if you’re using your shoes casually and not walking for extreme long distances or difficult terrain, you’ll probably be fine with a unisex shoe.

Do I Need Orthotics In My Walking Shoes?

It depends. If you have average feet with no medical issues, you will likely be completely comfortable in well-fitting walking shoes. But age may play a factor in whether you require orthotics. “The older we get, the more we need stability in a shoe,” says Kavanagh. “If your walking shoes don’t have enough structure to them, you may need an orthotic.” Some podiatrists, like Rubinstein, recommend orthotics in even the most cushioned walking shoes. “Everyone has different feet, and customization can be really important,” he says. “Think about when you buy a suit—you need to take it to the tailor for the best fit. Orthotics customize a shoe to your foot and your needs.”


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