One of the most common mistakes you can make when buying walking shoes is prioritizing fashion over function, according to physical therapist Karena Wu, PT, DPT, OCS. The best walking shoes can make all the difference in protecting your feet during a stroll, hike, or fitness walk. Shoes that don’t fit properly can cause skin conditions like blisters or chafing, as well as foot, ankle, and leg pain, says Wu. When shopping, she recommends looking for walking shoes that fit properly and provide good support and cushioning.
To find the best walking shoes for men, we consulted with experts, including a podiatric surgeon, a footwear expert, two podiatrists, and a physical therapist, to determine the key features to look for in a high-quality pair. We then tested over 100 pairs of shoes at home, wearing them on dirt trails, concrete paths, grass, and more. We evaluated each pair for its fit, stability, responsiveness, cushioning, comfort, quality, and value to find the top options on the market.
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What to Look For
- Flex Point: To check the flex point of your shoe, hold it by the heel and press the toe onto the ground. The point where the shoe bends is the flex point. The shoe’s flex point should match the bending point at the ball of your foot. Podiatrist Miguel Cunha, DPM, advises that your shoe should bend comfortably at the point where your toes bend when walking, allowing for your natural movement. When it doesn’t align correctly or when a shoe bends at the arch instead, it can lead to issues like arch pain, blisters, or plantar fasciitis.
- Material: Look for a shoe made with high-quality, durable materials that will last. If you tend to run warm and plan on wearing the shoe in warm weather or while taking long walks, Cunha recommends looking for a shoe with mesh or knit uppers or perforated leather to help keep your feet comfortable and dry.
- Arch Support: Look for a walking shoe that provides solid arch support to help keep your feet aligned properly and improve your posture and gait while walking. Wu says that a flat foot needs low arch support, a high arch will require more arch support, while a neutral foot will need minimal to moderate arch support. To determine which arch support is best for you, wet your entire foot and step on a sheet of paper. Wu says a large and wide imprint indicates a flat foot, a narrow imprint indicates a high arch, and a moderate imprint indicates a neutral arch.
- Foot Conditions: If you have a foot condition, such as bunions, hammer toes, or plantar fasciitis, it’s important to find a walking shoe that won’t exacerbate your symptoms. Depending on the condition, you may want to look for shoes with a wide toe box, additional arch support, or well-cushioned midsoles.
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How We Tested
To find the best walking shoes for men, the Verywell Fit team tested over 100 pairs at home, wearing them on sand, grass, trails, concrete paths, and more. When testing walking shoes for men, we evaluate each pair based on the following key criteria.
- Fit: When we first try on the shoes, we note if they fit true to size and if there is a thumb’s width of space between our toes and the end of the shoe. According to Cunha, your heel should also remain in place without any slippage or lifting. We ask ourselves if the shoe feels too loose or too tight and note whether the toe box is wide enough to wiggle our toes. We prioritize shoes that fit as expected.
- Stability: When walking in each pair of shoes, we note whether our ankles and knees feel supported and stable. We consider whether the shoes provide enough shock support and balance with each step. We also note whether the stability of the shoe changes with different surfaces, such as grass, gravel, or concrete.
- Responsiveness: After wearing the shoes for at least three hours, we evaluate how well they help propel us forward with each step. We note how springy and bouncy the shoe feels, as well as whether the curve of the sole aids propulsion. After wearing the shoes for several hours, we note whether our legs feel fresh, heavy, or fatigued.
- Cushioning: To evaluate the cushioning, we note whether it feels pillowy or firm, how well it absorbs shock, whether we feel pain or pressure points anywhere, and whether the cushioning is evenly distributed throughout the shoe. After the testing period, we evaluate if the cushioning has held up over time, including whether it has deflated or compressed.
- Comfort: The first time we put the shoes on, we ask ourselves if they feel light or heavy. Do the shoes feel breathable? Is the upper fabric soft and flexible or stiff and rigid? Are there any seams or stitching that cause chafing or irritation? After our test walks, we note whether our feet stay comfortable or get sweaty and overheated. We also consider whether we develop any blisters or hot spots.
- Quality: To evaluate quality, we note whether the shoes arrived in good condition and whether the materials are durable and high-quality. We also perform a bend test to determine whether the shoes bend where they should (under the ball of the foot). At the end of the testing period, we note any wear and tear on the shoes.
- Value: To determine the value of each pair of walking shoes, we wait until the end of the testing period, after evaluating all other criteria, to check the price. Based on their performance, we note if the shoes are fairly priced or if we would only buy them on sale. We also consider whether we would recommend the shoes to friends and family.
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What We’ve Updated
- Since publishing our initial tested roundup of the best walking shoes for men, we’ve re-evaluated our previous picks and hands-on tested 12 new pairs of shoes. This continues to be a fully tested article, solely providing our hands-on experience with each recommended men’s walking shoe.
- Based on our testing insights, we’ve reworked some of our product picks, including Best Overall, Best Slip-On, Best Cushioned, and Best Breathable.
- Based on our testing insights, we’ve added six new superlatives, including Best Budget, Best With Wide Toe Box, and Best for Plantar Fasciitis.
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Breathable, stylish design
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Stable on various terrains
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Excellent responsiveness
Key Specs
Sizes: Men’s 7-15 | Weight: 9.1 ounces | Drop: 10 millimeters | Closure: Lace-up | Cushioning: Plush | Materials: Knit upper, foam midsole, rubber outsole | Our Overall Rating: 4.8/5
Who They’re For
Best for those who want responsive, breathable walking shoes for comfortable, everyday movement.
Why We Love Them
Brooks’ Glycerin StealthFit 22 Shoes have a stylish, comfy design and a perfectly breathable knit upper that keeps our feet dry, walk after walk. They have a balanced, squishy yet firm feel, which provides both comfort and stability. These shoes are also impressively responsive, propelling us forward with every step in a way that feels both seamless and effortless.
No matter the terrain, we felt stable in these shoes, with our feet staying securely in place the entire time. Made with high-quality, durable materials, they showed no unusual signs of wear and tear throughout the testing period. We feel confident in our smooth stride when wearing these shoes.
Also available in women’s sizes at Amazon, Dick’s Sporting Goods, and Brooks.
Potential Flaws
- The heel cup design made us feel as though our feet were being pushed forward in the shoes, which caused some initial discomfort as we acclimated.
Most Valuable Insight
“I prefer walking and running shoes that provide breathability and comfort. The first time I put on these shoes, I felt like I was walking on air, bouncing from cloud to cloud. The arch in the sole of the shoe has the perfect amount of support and cushioning. Walking on all different types of terrain, these shoes felt great.” —Kyle W., Verywell Fit product tester
Key Specs
Sizes: Men’s 6.5-14 | Weight: 10 ounces | Drop: Not listed | Closure: Slip-on | Cushioning: Plush | Materials: Mesh upper, foam midsole, rubber outsole | Our Overall Rating: 5/5
Who They’re For
Best for wearers who want a highly versatile, comfortable, and budget-friendly shoe that’s easy to slip on for light, daily activities.
Why We Love Them
Adidas’s Lite Racer Adapt 7.0 Shoe tops our list as one of our favorite options because it’s very cushioned, highly versatile, and budget-friendly. During testing, we wore these shoes around town, to the gym, and to yoga class because they were so easy to slip on and off. We even felt agile enough to run comfortably in them.
We also noticed that the upper is sock-like and fits snugly around our midfoot and heel while still leaving plenty of room in the toe box. Our feet felt completely cushioned and supported, which kept us comfortable all day. Even during longer walks, we didn’t experience any knee or ankle pain, and we felt like we could easily wear these shoes on more intense fitness walks. These shoes are available in a variety of colors and look stylish enough to wear while running errands.
Potential Flaws
- While our typical size fits us well, some wearers noted that these shoes felt too small, and they had to size up.
Most Valuable Insight
“The heel is very stable. It really feels like a normal tennis shoe, and you aren’t able to tell that it isn’t unless you look closely at the laces.” —Smith C., Verywell Fit product tester
Key Specs
Sizes: Men’s 7.5-15 (wide) | Weight: 8.6 ounces | Drop: 0 millimeters | Closure: Lace-up | Cushioning: Moderate | Materials: Knit mesh upper, foam midsole, rubber outsole | Our Overall Rating: 4.1/5
Who They’re For
Best for anyone who wants a minimalist warm-weather walking shoe that’s lightweight, budget-friendly, and very breathable.
Why We Love Them
Relxfeet’s Barefoot Shoes impressed us with their minimalist design, incredible breathability, and lightweight feel. We loved wearing them while running errands or completing tasks around the house. Because they’re so comfortable and airy, they remind us more of slippers than traditional sneakers.
Their grippy outsole makes transitioning from various surfaces, like concrete and grass, a breeze, and we never found ourselves catching on uneven terrain. We also like that they don’t hold onto odors, keeping our feet feeling fresh even during longer periods of wear. We think they’re a great option for anyone looking for a highly breathable walking shoe at a budget-friendly price.
Potential Flaws
- Our heels slid around a bit when we wore these shoes because the fabric inside is super smooth. For a more secure fit, we recommend sizing down or wearing them with thicker socks.
Most Valuable Insight
“I found these shoes very comfortable. They’re light and feel more like slippers. When I wear them, it doesn’t feel like I’m wearing sneakers.” —Robert T., Verywell Fit product tester
Key Specs
Sizes: Men’s 7-15 | Weight: 10.4 ounces | Drop: 8 millimeters | Closure: Lace-up | Cushioning: Moderate | Materials: Ripstop fabric and suede upper, foam midsole, rubber outsole | Our Overall Rating: 4.9/5
Who They’re For
Best for those who want a budget-friendly, extra comfortable walking shoe that stands up well to all-day wear.
Why We Love Them
Comfortable right out of the box and available at a very reasonable price, Under Armour’s Charged Verssert 2 Sneakers offer excellent cushioning and support without being too tight. The secure heel fit left our ankles feeling particularly stable, with no signs of slipping, sliding, or rubbing. Meanwhile, the marshmallow-soft cushioning along the insole and tongue made us feel as though we were walking on clouds, providing the all-day comfort we seek in a versatile walking shoe.
We appreciated how well the shoe’s breathable, anti-tear fabric upper kept our feet cool throughout prolonged wear. The rubber outsole provides plenty of traction and durability on road and trail surfaces, being grippy enough to help us maintain our balance and feel stable with every step. After weeks of testing and no signs of wear and tear, they’re clearly high-quality walking shoes made with premium materials.
Also available in women’s sizes at Amazon, Zappos, and Under Armour.
Potential Flaws
- While ideal for walking, these shoes lack the responsiveness we look for when performing more agility-focused and faster-paced activity, so that’s something to keep in mind if you plan to wear them as transitional workout shoes as well.
Most Valuable Insight
“One thing that stands out when wearing these shoes is their stable ankle support. Your heel locks into the shoe, offering amazing support and stability. I also felt that these shoes provided excellent shock support, which is what I was looking for.” —David E., Verywell Fit product tester
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Firmer insole
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Not as responsive
Key Specs
Sizes: Men’s 6-15 (medium, extra-wide) | Weight: 10.2 ounces | Drop: 8 millimeters | Closure: Lace-up | Cushioning: Moderate | Materials: Mesh upper, foam midsole, rubber outsole | Our Overall Rating: 4.7/5
Who They’re For
Best for those who like a little extra wiggle room for their toes in a securely fitting, supportive walking shoe.
Why We Love Them
Asics’ GEL-EXCITE 11 Shoe is an excellent option for those with wider feet or who experience foot swelling during exercise. The shoes feature a roomier toe box than competitors, preventing unwanted rubbing, blisters, and general discomfort. Meanwhile, they offer a secure heel fit that prevents any problematic slipping or sliding in the shoe.
Out of the box, it’s also clear that these shoes are built to last, featuring high-quality materials and a durable construction that easily withstands many miles of wear. During testing, our knees and ankles felt stable and supported, allowing us to transition smoothly on various terrains with zero trips or stumbles. They definitely prioritize support, proving one of the sturdiest pairs on our list.
Also available in women’s sizes at Amazon, Zappos, and Asics.
Potential Flaws
- The insole of these shoes is hard and flat, giving a feeling of strength and durability over comfort, which may not suit some wearers, especially those who prefer a more plush feel.
- We wished these shoes featured better responsiveness, as we prefer a bit more spring in our step on longer walks.
Most Valuable Insight
“While these shoes aren’t as plush as others, I would recommend them for someone looking for a long-lasting shoe. They’re built for someone who does a lot of walking. The first time I put the shoes on, my arches felt very well supported. They also allowed my feet to breathe and didn’t create any foot issues.” —Kyle W., Verywell Fit product tester
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Bulkier aesthetic
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May be less durable
Key Specs
Sizes: Men’s 8-14 | Weight: 8.1 ounces | Drop: Not listed | Closure: Slip-on lace-up | Cushioning: Plush | Materials: Mesh knit upper, foam midsole, foam outsole | Our Overall Rating: 5/5
Who They’re For
Best for those who want a recovery shoe that doesn’t skimp on cushioning and easily supports casual, everyday walking needs.
Why We Love Them
Oofos’ OOmy Stride Shoes deliver true comfort and stability, striking an ideal balance between superbly plush cushioning and firm support. During testing, we appreciated the rocker soles, which help reduce strain associated with foot arthritis and encourage a smoother stride. The soft breathable mesh upper also provided welcome relief to the tops of our feet, where some shoes tend to apply uncomfortable pressure.
The sock-like fit around the heel and the roomy toe box created a secure feel without being restrictive. The firm insole also felt particularly supportive for our high arches, and the shoes’ excellent shock absorption relieved the pressure we typically feel in our joints during longer walks. The extra pop of energy provided by the firm yet springy foam outsole is another nice touch in this impressively lightweight shoe.
Also available in women’s sizes at Amazon, Zappos, and Oofos.
Potential Flaws
- These shoes look a bit bulky, which may not appeal to everyone.
- We wore this shoe for several weeks without any issues, but we do have concerns about its long-term durability, particularly since the outsole and tread aren’t made from traditional hard rubber.
Most Valuable Insight
“These shoes caught my attention because I’ve heard great things about the brand’s slides and their reputation for recovery support, particularly among runners. As soon as I slipped them on, I understood the hype. This is one of the most comfortable shoes I’ve ever worn, and I love that it’s a slip-on. It’s an excellent choice for running errands or wearing around the house.” —Jimmy V., Verywell Fit product tester
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Lightweight and responsive design
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Thick, supportive cushioning
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Good traction on various terrains
Key Specs
Sizes: Men’s 7-16 (medium, wide) | Weight: 8 ounces | Drop: 5 millimeters | Closure: Lace-up | Cushioning: Moderate | Materials: Double jacquard upper, foam midsole, rubber outsole | Our Overall Rating: 5/5
Who They’re For
Best for those who want a lightweight, well-cushioned, and breathable walking shoe that feels stable on various terrains.
Why We Love Them
Hoka’s Rincon 4 Shoes are the Goldilocks of walking shoes. They provide excellent breathability and a true-to-size, secure fit without any excessive tightness or slipping. Our average-height arches felt particularly comfortable in these lightweight shoes when walking and running a few short miles, and their responsive design gave us a noticeable and enjoyable spring in our step. They feature thick but not overly squishy cushioning, too, keeping our feet both comfortable and well supported.
These walking shoes provided excellent knee and ankle stability, leaving us feeling rock solid on turf, grass, concrete, and gravel alike, with plenty of traction. We also found they provided great shock support for walking. Overall, these are very high-quality, well-constructed shoes that do a great job of balancing all the components we prioritize in a solid walking sneaker.
Also available in women’s sizes at Dick’s Sporting Goods and Zappos.
Potential Flaws
- These shoes are so lightweight that we’re wary of what their long-term durability may look like, especially once we really rack up some serious miles in them. With that said, we didn’t notice any problematic wear and tear during the testing period.
Most Valuable Insight
“I look for comfy, easy-to-slip-on, and durable shoes that can stand up well to parenting life. I tend to really like the look and overall comfort of Hokas in general. These shoes felt comfortable when I first put them on. They feel nice, comfy, and well-cushioned. I like how lightweight, responsive, and breathable these shoes are, allowing them to work well for long-distance walks and shorter tempo runs (under 6 miles) on various terrains.” —Andy A., Verywell Fit product tester
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Very stable on various terrains
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Thick, squishy cushioning
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Great shock absorption
Key Specs
Sizes: Men’s 7.5-13 | Weight: 11 ounces | Drop: Not listed | Closure: Slip-on lace-up | Cushioning: Plush | Materials: Mesh upper, foam midsole, foam and rubber outsole | Our Overall Rating: 5/5
Who They’re For
Best for those who like to slide in and out of their walking shoes easily without sacrificing comfort or support.
Why We Love Them
Ideal for avid walkers, Skechers’ GO WALK Max Cushioning Jesper Shoes are easy to slip on and comfortable for higher mileage days. The slip-on style performs perfectly, making the shoes very easy to slide on and off as needed and providing a secure fit. With a thick and squishy sole and ample padding in the arch and heel, these shoes provide a well-cushioned step. They also have great shock absorption, which remains consistent even during extended walks and after multiple wears.
We especially liked the heel-to-toe action of these shoes, which made us feel like we were being propelled into our next step. The shoe bounces back very quickly and always feels ready for our next stride. Meanwhile, we felt very stable in this shoe on various terrains, with no worries about any knee or ankle stability.
Potential Flaws
- While these shoes are made with durable materials, the upper does pick up stains easily (especially the lighter colors) when walking through wet grass. However, these shoes are machine-washable, making them a breeze to keep clean.
Most Valuable Insight
“I get gout in the joints of my feet that causes discomfort. These shoes fit better than I expected and are very comfortable. The shoes fit great the first time I put them on. They were light like air, and my arches were supported. I didn’t get any blisters or other irritations on my feet, and I didn’t get sweaty feet even walking in warm, humid weather.” —Kyle W., Verywell Fit product tester
Key Specs
Sizes: Men’s 7-16 (medium, wide, extra-wide) | Weight: 9.8 ounces | Drop: 8 millimeters | Closure: Lace-up | Cushioning: Plush | Materials: Mesh upper, foam midsole, rubber outsole | Our Overall Rating: 5/5
Who They’re For
Best for those who want the “walking on a cloud” feeling in their go-to walking shoe, which sometimes doubles as their running shoe.
Why We Love Them
Comfort is clearly the top priority in HOKA’s Clifton 10 Sneakers. These shoes feature thick, squishy, and plush cushioning along the sole, sides, upper, tongue, and collar, enveloping our feet in comfy padding. This design provides particularly strong arch support, which we found really helpful for longer walks and runs. Meanwhile, the plentiful padding doesn’t compromise airflow, maintaining excellent breathability as our feet warm up on longer walks.
These shoes feel exceptionally high-quality, sturdy, and durable, performing particularly well on hard terrains, such as hilly and uneven concrete. They provide a secure fit with no slipping or tightness, holding our feet firmly in place with ample support in key areas, such as the toe box and heel. They also look like new after weeks of almost daily wear, with no signs of problematic wear and tear.
Also available in women’s sizes at Dick’s Sporting Goods and HOKA.
Potential Flaws
- We developed a minor blister on the ball of our foot when breaking in these shoes on a longer run, so that’s something to keep in mind if you’re looking to treat them like a multipurpose shoe. However, we didn’t experience any blisters when walking.
Most Valuable Insight
“These met my expectations in terms of quality and comfort. They’re incredibly well-padded, have a thick, cushioned stack height, and fit my feet extremely well, without any slipping or sliding. They’re great for long-distance walkers and everyday runners who want a super, well-cushioned shoe.” —Andy A., Verywell Fit product tester
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Excellent arch support
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Firm, stable feel
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Sturdy and high-quality
Key Specs
Sizes: Men’s 7-14 | Weight: 9.8 ounces | Drop: 8 millimeters | Closure: Lace-up | Cushioning: Light | Materials: Recycled fabric upper, foam midsole, rubber outsole | Our Overall Rating: 4.6/5
Who They’re For
Best for those with a history of plantar fasciitis and arch pain who want a walking shoe that can help them move more comfortably.
Why We Love Them
On Running’s Cloudzone Shoes help make pain-free walking possible for people experiencing symptoms related to plantar fasciitis. These shoes offer ample arch support and a well-sized, firmer insole that provides a stable feel underfoot. A major win: During testing, we found that these shoes didn’t cause plantar fasciitis flare-ups on longer walks, unlike many of our other sneakers.
Made with high-quality and incredibly sturdy materials, these shoes are well-designed and built to last, catering to those who prefer lighter cushioning. At no time did we think the shoes felt cheap or flimsy. Aside from a few scuffs from everyday wear throughout the testing period, they still look like they just came out of the box.
Also available in women’s sizes at Nordstrom and On Running.
Potential Flaws
- The stiff heel design takes some getting used to. We had to push through some Achilles soreness, which fortunately subsided as we adjusted to the shoes. Once broken in, we found them to be incredibly supportive.
Most Valuable Insight
“I loved how supported my arches felt when I first put these on. I have occasional plantar fasciitis flare-ups, and I didn’t have any at all while testing this pair of shoes.” —Nick F., Verywell Fit product tester
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Stylish, waterproof, and slip-on design
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Lightweight, with excellent cushioning
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Bouncy feel
Key Specs
Sizes: Men’s 8-14 | Weight: 9.8 ounces | Drop: 5 millimeters | Closure: Slip-on | Cushioning: Responsive | Materials: Fabric upper, foam midsole, rubber outsole | Our Overall Rating: 5/5
Who They’re For
Best for those seeking a high-quality, sleek walking shoe that’s ready for any adventure.
Why We Love Them
Whether you plan to hit the trails or take your walk to the city streets, Norda’s 003 Shoe has you covered. With a sleek and modern slip-on design, these shoes are true standouts. Their grip is outstanding, and the outsoles feature deep grooves that provide excellent traction. From concrete to wet surfaces to grass, they transition seamlessly between various terrains.
During testing, we found these shoes kept our feet secure and firmly in place, and the thick soles provide plenty of cushion and stability while remaining quite flexible. They offer a very bouncy feel, with a lot of rebound when our feet touch the ground. They’re also incredibly lightweight, further contributing to that barely-there sensation. While certainly an investment, these shoes are high quality, uniquely designed, water-resistant, and built to last.
Also available in women’s sizes at REI, Backcountry, and Norda.
Potential Flaws
- The brand recommends sizing up by one full size, which we did, and they fit perfectly.
Most Valuable Insight
“Many walking shoes are painfully ugly. I chose these because they have a very modern, futuristic look. I also wear shorts in the summer, and I need a sneaker that looks natural whether I’m wearing pants or shorts. These shoes are very comfortable. I can see why these are trail running/technical shoes—they really stay put on your foot! They feel quite locked in, yet don’t sacrifice comfort.” —Al S., Verywell Fit product tester
Key Specs
Sizes: Men’s 7-15 (medium, wide) | Weight: 9.4 ounces | Drop: 8 millimeters | Closure: Slip-on with elasticized laces | Cushioning: Light | Materials: Recycled fabric upper, foam midsole, rubber outsole | Our Overall Rating: 5/5
Who They’re For
Best for those who want a high-quality, sleek walking shoe that’s ideal for the office-to-errands transitions of daily life.
Why We Love Them
On Running’s Cloud 6 Shoes provide the comfort and support needed for all-day wear in a sleek design that works virtually anywhere. Easy to slip on for those hurry-out-the-door moments, they provide a secure fit and stay firmly in place while on the move. They have a pleasant, springy feel to them that was noticeable when we pushed off in our stride. The insoles feel similarly responsive and squishy, adding a nice touch of comfort to an otherwise lightly cushioned shoe.
Incredibly lightweight, these shoes never left our feet feeling weighed down or our legs feeling heavy after a full day of wear. They feature adequate arch support, a stable heel cup and toe box, and an upper that keeps them reliably breathable. They also performed well on concrete, grass, and dirt alike, never slipping when transitioning from one surface to another. It’s clear that these shoes are well-constructed with premium materials.
Also available in women’s sizes at REI, Dick’s Sporting Goods, and On Running.
Potential Flaws
- We noticed a little side-to-side movement of our feet on occasion, so these shoes may not be supportive enough for higher-intensity workouts.
Most Valuable Insight
“I really like the durability and look of these shoes. They’re both extremely comfortable and stylish, and I received a lot of compliments on them at work. The overall craftsmanship on these shoes is second to none. The speed-lacing system was absolutely a standout feature for me. I really enjoyed being able to slip these shoes on without having to tie them.” —Ryan S., Verywell Fit product tester
Men’s Walking Shoes We Also Tested
We tested over 100 pairs of men’s walking shoes, but only 12 impressed us enough to make our final list of recommendations. While we liked some of these other pairs’ features, they didn’t meet our rigorous testing requirements to be selected as top picks.
- While Zamberlan’s 215 Salathe GTX RR Shoe is comfortable, we think its chunkier design is better suited for hiking than walking. Additionally, we don’t think it’s breathable enough for those who run hot or anyone looking for a shoe that can be worn on longer walks.
- We appreciate that Asics’ Metaspeed Sky+ Shoe is well cushioned. However, it doesn’t offer enough support or stability for those with joint issues
- Hoka’s Solimar Sneaker prevented our feet from rolling inward excessively. However, their cushioning left a lot to be desired, and they ran narrow, making it difficult to find the right fit.
- We appreciate the lightweight feel and breathability of Altra’s Experience Flow 2 Shoe, but we found its sizing to be inconsistent, its toe box to be too narrow, and its outsole to be too slippery for wet and varied terrain.
- While New Balance’s Fresh Foam X 880v15 is a stylish and breathable walking shoe that offers a secure fit, we found it to be lacking in cushioning and responsiveness, which left us with some toe blisters.
Verywell Fit
Our Experts
We consulted experts at each stage of our research, testing, and reporting process. The following experts provided valuable insights into the key features to look for when choosing the best walking shoes for men, as well as guidance on our testing process. Although we choose products independently, expert input influences our decisions.
- Diana Levin Valencia, DPM, podiatric surgeon at NYC Foot and Ankle Center
- Nathan Buelow, former Senior Brand Marketing Manager at the footwear company Merrell
- Saylee Tulpule, DPM, board-certified podiatrist at Foot and Ankle Specialists of the Mid-Atlantic
- Miguel Cunha, DPM, podiatrist and founder of Gotham Footcare in New York City
- Karena Wu, PT, DPT, OCS, board-certified clinical specialist in orthopedic physical therapy and owner and clinical director of ActiveCare Physical Therapy in NYC and Mumbai
Frequently Asked Questions
Are running shoes good for walking?
Yes, some running shoes work well for walking. However, there are some key differences between them. Running shoes are typically lighter, more breathable, and have more cushioning. Compared to running shoes, walking shoes may have more stability features, be heavier, and offer greater flexibility at the forefoot. Wu says that wearing certain running shoes while walking can lead to issues, including foot, ankle, and leg pain, as well as improper muscle usage.
How long do walking shoes last?
Tulpule advises that you should generally replace your walking shoes every 300 to 400 miles or after 6 to 8 months, as their materials break down and lose their ability to support and protect your feet. This deterioration may increase the risk of injury, including slips. She says that this loss of cushion and shock absorption can add stress to the soft tissue and joints of the foot and even transfer to the ankles, knees, hips, and lower back.
What shoes do podiatrists recommend for walking?
Podiatrists typically recommend walking shoes that offer a balance of support, cushioning, and stability, as well as a secure fit based on your foot type and walking gait. Cunha is a fan of both Hoka shoes, such as the Rincon and Clifton, as well as Brooks shoes like the Glycerin StealthFit 22.
What are the best men’s shoes for being on your feet all day?
When you spend all day on your feet, it’s essential to wear shoes that provide adequate arch support, comfortable cushioning, effective shock absorption, and a spacious toe box. Of all the walking shoes that made our list, we think Brooks’s Glycerin StealthFit 22 Shoe is the best suited for all-day wear.
Why Trust Verywell Fit
Alena Davis, ISSA-CPT, is a Verywell Fit writer and exercise enthusiast. As a former personal trainer and long-distance runner who walks and jogs daily, she knows a well-fitting pair of walking shoes is key to a comfortable, confident stride. In this roundup, she highlighted trustworthy footwear brands that offer comfortable, supportive, and high-quality walking shoes for men, featuring options that suit a wide range of foot types.
Additional reporting contributed by Gabrielle Applebury, MA, LMFT
Gabrielle Applebury, MA, LMFT, is a licensed marriage and family therapist and the associate editor for Verywell Fit. Whether focusing on workout gear, apparel, or other products, she’s dedicated to providing recommendations based on thorough research and testing. She’s tested walking shoes, leggings, sports bras, walking socks, and more.
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