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10 Best Walking Shoes 2025 in the United States

#1

Winner

10.0 score

New Balance Men's 608 V5 Casual Comfort Cross Trainer, White/Navy, 11 Wide

The New Balance Men's 608 V5 Casual Comfort Cross Trainer in White/Navy, size 11 Wide, is a versatile option for those who need a reliable pair of walking shoes. One of its strong points is the leather upper, which ensures durability and a classic look. The ABZORB midsole cushioning is designed to absorb strong impacts, making your walks more comfortable. Additionally, the premium PU comfort insert adds to the overall cushioning, which is beneficial for long walks or standing for extended periods.

Rating
10.0
Chosen by1,454
Fit
Cushioning
Arch Support

Most important from
86607 reviews

Fit
Comfortable and nice fit with very attractive design.
Cushioning
Great arch support and cushioning, true to size and lightweight.
Arch Support
Great arch support and cushioning, true to size and lightweight.
Breathability
Comfy and breathable, making it ideal for daily use.
Durability
Durability is on a different level; holds up amazingly even after extensive use.
Weight
Great arch support and cushioning, true to size and lightweight.
#2
7.9 score

Hoka Men's Bondi 9 Sneaker, Black/Black, 12

The Hoka Men's Bondi 9 is designed with comfort in mind, featuring engineered mesh on the upper that offers good breathability, helping keep your feet cool during walks. The shoe uses a lace-up closure for a secure fit, and its polyester outer material is lightweight, which keeps the shoe from feeling heavy on your feet. Cushioning is a strong point thanks to the ethylene vinyl acetate sole, which provides good shock absorption, making it comfortable for longer walks or standing periods. Arch support is decent, catering well to those who need moderate support, but it might not be enough for people with very high or low arches.

Rating
7.9
Fit
Cushioning
Flexibility

Most important from
1316 reviews

Fit
The fit is secure and supportive, helping alleviate back strain during long periods of use.
Cushioning
The cushioning significantly reduces discomfort from walking or standing on hard surfaces like concrete.
Flexibility
The shoe’s design balances stability and moderate flexibility, supporting natural movement without feeling restrictive.
Breathability
Users notice the breathable upper keeps feet cool throughout extended walks.
#3
7.9 score

Brooks Men’s Ghost Max 3 Neutral Running & Walking Shoe - Primer Grey/Ebony - 11 Wide

The Brooks Men’s Ghost Max 3 is designed to offer excellent comfort and support, making it a solid option for walkers who prioritize cushioning and stability. It features a high level of nitrogen-infused DNA Loft v3 cushioning that helps reduce pressure on your feet, which can make long walks feel easier and reduce fatigue. The shoe’s wide base and raised sidewalls provide good stability, supporting a natural stride and accommodating various foot shapes and even orthotics, which is great if you need extra support or have wider feet.

Rating
7.9
Cushioning
Fit and Comfort
Breathability

Most important from
386 reviews

Cushioning
These shoes provide an unmatched level of cushioning that makes you barely feel the ground, turning long hours of walking into a pain-free experience even with severe foot conditions.
Fit and Comfort
The wide toe box and overall roomy fit accommodate wide feet perfectly without sacrificing support, making them feel like a true refuge for those who struggle to find comfortable shoes.
Breathability
Breathability is excellent, keeping feet cool and dry throughout intense, all-day use in challenging environments like concrete, gravel, and mud.
Support
The raised sidewalls and wide base provide just the right amount of stability to prevent excessive rolling without compromising natural foot movement.
Outsole Grip
The outsole offers reliable grip suitable for pavement and similar terrains, making them ideal for everyday walking and light jogging rather than rugged trails.

Top 10 Best Walking Shoes 2025 in the United States

#1

Winner

10.0  score

New Balance Men's 608 V5 Casual Comfort Cross Trainer, White/Navy, 11 Wide

Fit: good fit, wide size
Cushioning: ABZORB midsole, PU comfort insert
Arch Support: solid arch support
Flexibility: adequate
Breathability: leather not best material
Durability: leather upper
Weight: 2.4 pounds

Chosen by 1454 this week

Hoka Men's Bondi 9 Sneaker, Black/Black, 12

Fit: secure fit
Cushioning: ethylene vinyl acetate sole
Arch Support: decent
Flexibility: moderate
Breathability: engineered mesh upper
Durability: solid for regular walking use
Weight: lightweight

Brooks Men’s Ghost Max 3 Neutral Running & Walking Shoe - Primer Grey/Ebony - 11 Wide

Fit and Comfort: wide base, raised sidewalls, fits orthotics
Support: wide base, raised sidewalls, natural stride
Cushioning: nitrogen-infused DNA Loft v3 cushioning
Weight: slightly heavier weight
Breathability: engineered mesh, soft textile upper
Outsole Grip: reliable grip on pavement terrains

Hoka Men's Bondi 9 Black/White 11 Medium

Fit and Comfort: Fabric inner, mesh outer material
Cushioning: Well-cushioned
Weight: 3 Pounds
Breathability: Engineered mesh upper, textile lining
Outsole Grip: Rubber sole

Brooks Women’s Ariel GTS 24 Supportive Running & Walking Shoe - Coconut/Chateau/Portabella - 8.5 Medium

Fit and Comfort: generous, roomy fit
Support: GuideRails, midsole and outsole stability
Cushioning: nitrogen-infused DNA Loft v3
Weight: 1.5 Pounds
Outsole Grip: rubber outsole

Skechers Women's Go Walk Flex Hands Free Slip-Ins - Grand Entry Sneaker, Black/White, 8 US

Fit: Hands-free slip-on with Heel Pillow
Cushioning: ULTRA GO and air-cooled foam
Arch Support: Present but not heavily emphasized
Flexibility: Good due to fabric material
Breathability: Air-cooled memory foam insole
Durability: Less durable for heavy use
Weight: Lightweight

Hoka Women's Bondi 9 Black/Black 8 Medium

Fit and Comfort: medium width
Support: solid support
Cushioning: Ethylene Vinyl Acetate sole
Weight: lightweight but heavier than simple shoes
Breathability: engineered mesh and textile lining
Outsole Grip: reliable on various walking surfaces

Under Armour Men's Charged Assert 9, Black (002)/Black, 10.5 X-Wide US

Fit and Comfort: extra wide feet
Support: midfoot stability, Charged Cushioning midsole
Cushioning: EVA sockliner, Charged Cushioning midsole
Weight: lightweight mesh upper
Breathability: good breathability, lightweight mesh upper
Outsole Grip: solid rubber in high-impact areas

Brooks Women’s Revel 8 Neutral Running & Walking Shoe - White/Chateau Grey - 8 Medium

Fit and Comfort: comfortable fit
Support: reliable
Cushioning: DNA Loft v2 cushioning
Weight: lightweight
Breathability: breathable mesh upper
Outsole Grip: RoadTack rubber

Brooks Men’s Ghost 16 Neutral Running Shoe - Primer/Grey/Lime - 10.5 Medium

Fit and Comfort: 3D Fit Print, seamless feel
Support: neutral support
Cushioning: nitrogen-infused DNA Loft v3 midsole
Weight: just over a pound
Breathability: engineered mesh upper
Outsole Grip: RoadTack rubber outsole
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Buying Guide for the Best Walking Shoes

Choosing the right walking shoes is essential not only for comfort but also for the long-term health of your feet and joints. The best walking shoes should support your walking style, feel good during your daily activities, and last through regular use. The right pair depends a lot on your walking environment, your foot shape, and how much support or cushioning you need. Paying attention to a few key features can help you sort through the options and pick the best fit for your needs.
Fit and ComfortFit and comfort refer to how well the shoe conforms to your foot and how comfortable it feels when you walk. This is crucial because a shoe that doesn't fit can cause blisters, sore feet, or long-term problems with your posture. Walking shoes should have enough room in the toe box so your toes can move freely, but also be snug around the heel to prevent slipping. To pick the best fit, try shoes on in the afternoon when your feet are slightly swollen from the day. Walk around the store or at home to ensure there are no tight spots or uncomfortable seams. If you have wide or narrow feet, look for brands or models that offer multiple width options.
SupportSupport describes how much the shoe helps stabilize your foot, particularly around the arch and heel. Good support can prevent pain and injuries, especially if you walk long distances or have flat feet or high arches. Walking shoes usually come with varying degrees of support: minimal (for natural foot movement), moderate (for most people), and maximum (for people who need extra stability). If you have a history of foot issues, or if you walk on uneven surfaces, consider shoes with more structure and built-in arch support. Otherwise, a moderate support shoe should suffice for everyday walking.
CushioningCushioning is the padding inside the shoe that absorbs the impact when your foot hits the ground. The level of cushioning needed depends on your preference and walking habits. Lightweight cushioning is often best for those who prefer a more connected feeling with the ground or walk short distances. Medium cushioning suits most walkers, balancing comfort and responsiveness. Maximum cushioning is ideal if you cover long distances, walk on hard surfaces, or need extra comfort underfoot. Try different levels and choose what feels most comfortable over the distances you usually walk.
WeightWeight refers to how heavy the shoe feels when worn. Lighter shoes generally make walking less tiring and are preferred for brisk or long walks, while heavier shoes might offer more support and durability, especially for rugged environments. If you plan to walk quickly or for exercise, look for lightweight models that don’t weigh you down. For more casual or daily use, weight is less important, so prioritize support and comfort over the lightest weight.
BreathabilityBreathability means how well the shoe lets air flow to your foot, keeping your feet cool and dry. Shoes with mesh uppers or ventilation holes are more breathable. This is especially important if you walk in warm climates, or if your feet tend to sweat. If you often walk in wet or cooler conditions, you might prefer less vented shoes or those made from water-resistant materials, balancing breathability with weather protection.
Outsole GripOutsole grip is about how well the bottom of the shoe holds onto different walking surfaces, preventing slips or falls. Shoes with deeper treads or patterned soles provide better traction, which is useful for outdoor, trail, or variable conditions. If you stick mainly to paved or indoor surfaces, a basic flat grip will likely be fine. People who walk on grassy, gravelly, or uneven paths should look for shoes with rugged, grippy outsoles.

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