If you’re a day by day walker, constant errands-runner, or anyone who prioritizes comfort across the clock, your feet deserve the perfect walking shoes you could find. We’re here to assist make your search as seamless as possible, whether you’re available in the market for a pair you may wear while exploring the neighborhood, mountain climbing, working in your feet all day, or trying a brand new walking workout. We spoke with podiatrists to learn more about how a great walking shoe should fit and feel, then we rounded up the perfect options from expert picks, SELF-award-winning reviews, and top-rated shoe brands.
Our top picks
- Best Overall: Hoka Bondi 8
- Best Budget Pick: Ryka Sky Walk Walking Shoe
- Best for Maximum Cushioning: New Balance Fresh Foam X 1080 V12 Running Shoe
- Best for Plantar Fasciitis: Kuru Quantum
- Best for Flat Feet: Hoka Arahi 7
- Best Walking Sandals: Chaco Z1 Classic Sandal
- Best for Long Distances: Asics GT-1000 12
- Best Hiking Boot: Ken Targhee III Waterproof Mid
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What must you search for in a walking shoe?
A walking shoe needs to be built for normal use, with features to maintain you comfortable even after long periods of wear and tear. That’s why shock absorption is one among the primary things you must search for, Jossie Abraham, DPMa podiatric surgeon at Hartford HealthCare Orthopedic Institute at St. Vincent’s Medical Center in Connecticut, tells SELF. A shoe that cushions the impact of your steps will feel higher and may reduce your risk of foot, ankle, and knee pain, she says. In addition to a good amount of padding, the shoe must have a large base and support through the midfoot and arch. Both of those design elements can further reduce strain in your lower body.
It’s also essential that your walking shoe of selection suits your foot by way of each length and width (take a look at SELF’s sneaker buying guide for detailed tips about find the perfect fit). According to the American Academy of Orthopedic Surgeonsyour shoes shouldn’t make your toes feel cramped or like they’ll’t wiggle. People with wider feet should search for footwear that is available in multiple widths or has a wider-set toe box. Dr. Abraham says you’ll want to think about shoes with a mesh upper, which allows extra space and breathability in comparison with more rigid materials like leather. Ultimately, you don’t wish to feel like your foot is fighting against the structure of the shoe—quite, you wish a pair of shoes that’ll mimic the form of your foot.
The best walking shoes
If it’s time to search out some recent sneaks that you just’ll feel excited to lace up, then take a take a look at these excellent pairs, including editor-approved sneakers, shoes for plantar fasciitis, supportive options for people with flat feet, cloudlike kicks which can be well-suited for spending long hours standing, and even some sandals and trail shoes that fit the bill, too.ing long hours standing, and even some sandals and trail shoes that fit the bill too.
