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10 Best Walking Shoes 2025 in the United States
#1
Winner
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 by1,193
Fit
Cushioning
Arch Support
Most important from
83108 reviews
#2
Brooks Women’s Ghost 16 Neutral Running Shoe - White/White/Grey - 8 Medium
The Brooks Women’s Ghost 16 is designed primarily as a running shoe, but it also fits well for walking thanks to its smooth ride and cushioning. It features a soft, nitrogen-infused DNA Loft v3 midsole that provides lightweight and comfortable cushioning, which helps reduce foot fatigue during longer walks. The shoe offers neutral support, meaning it suits walkers who do not need extra stability or motion control. Its upper is made from breathable engineered air mesh, keeping feet cool throughout your activity. Weighing about 1.5 pounds, it is reasonably light, making it comfortable for all-day wear.
Rating
9.4
Fit and Comfort
Support
Cushioning
Most important from
6273 reviews
#3
Brooks Men’s Ghost 16 Neutral Running Shoe - Primer/Grey/Lime - 10.5 Medium
The Brooks Men’s Ghost 16 is a solid choice for walkers seeking a shoe that balances comfort with reliable support. Its fit is enhanced by a 3D Fit Print, offering a secure yet seamless feel, which means your foot won’t feel cramped or loose during walks. The shoe provides neutral support, making it suitable if you don’t have specific foot issues needing extra correction. Cushioning is a highlight here, thanks to the nitrogen-infused DNA Loft v3 midsole that gives a soft, lightweight ride—this helps reduce foot fatigue over longer walks. The breathable engineered mesh upper ensures your feet stay cool and comfortable, even on warmer days.
Rating
8.5
Fit and Comfort
Support
Cushioning
Most important from
4104 reviews
Top 10 Best Walking Shoes 2025 in the United States
#1
Winner
New Balance Men's 608 V5 Casual Comfort Cross Trainer, White/Navy, 11 Wide
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 1193 this week
Brooks Women’s Ghost 16 Neutral Running Shoe - White/White/Grey - 8 Medium
Brooks Women’s Ghost 16 Neutral Running Shoe - White/White/Grey - 8 Medium
Fit and Comfort: 3D Fit Print for secure ankle fit
Support: Neutral support
Cushioning: Soft nitrogen-infused DNA Loft v3
Weight: 1.5 Pounds
Breathability: Breathable engineered air mesh upper
Outsole Grip: RoadTack rubber grips pavement well
Brooks Men’s Ghost 16 Neutral Running Shoe - Primer/Grey/Lime - 10.5 Medium
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
Skechers Women's Go Walk Flex Hands Free Slip-Ins-Grand Entry Sneaker, Black/White, 8
Skechers Women's Go Walk Flex Hands Free Slip-Ins-Grand Entry Sneaker, Black/White, 8
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
Skechers Men's Summits High Range Hands Free Slip-in Sneaker, Navy, 12
Skechers Men's Summits High Range Hands Free Slip-in Sneaker, Navy, 12
Fit and Comfort: Slip-in style, heel pillow
Cushioning: Air-Cooled Memory Foam insole
Weight: 1.4 Pounds
Breathability: Mesh fabric
Outsole Grip: Synthetic rubber outsole
Related Products
Hoka Women's Clifton 10 Sneaker, White/White, 9.5
Hoka Women's Clifton 10 Sneaker, White/White, 9.5
Fit and Comfort: lace-up closure for secure fit
Support: moderate support
Cushioning: EVA sole for cushioning and shock
Weight: 1.88 Pounds
Breathability: jacquard knit upper promotes breathability
Under Armour Men's Charged Assert 9, Black (002)/Black, 10.5 X-Wide US
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 Ghost Max 2 Neutral Running & Walking Shoe - Coconut Milk/Gray/Zephyr - 8.5 Medium
Brooks Women’s Ghost Max 2 Neutral Running & Walking Shoe - Coconut Milk/Gray/Zephyr - 8.5 Medium
Fit and Comfort: Wider design, orthotic space, diabetic certified
Support: Broad base, raised sidewalls for stability
Cushioning: Nitrogen-infused DNA Loft v3 foam
Weight: Heavier than minimalist walking shoes
Outsole Grip: Rubber outsole, reliable grip on surfaces
Skechers Women's Summits Hands-Free Slip-Ins – Memory Foam Insole, Heel Pillow, Vegan Materials Sneaker, Grey Mint, 10 Wide
Skechers Women's Summits Hands-Free Slip-Ins – Memory Foam Insole, Heel Pillow, Vegan Materials Sneaker, Grey Mint, 10 Wide
Fit: snug fit, 10 Wide
Cushioning: Skechers Air-Cooled Memory Foam insole
Arch Support: might not offer highest arch support
Flexibility: flexible shock-absorbing midsole
Breathability: heathered jersey knit upper
Durability: rubber sole and fabric construction
Weight: lightweight
#10
New Balance Women's 608 V5 Cross Trainer, White/Light Blue, 8.5 Wide
New Balance Women's 608 V5 Cross Trainer, White/Light Blue, 8.5 Wide
Fit: Wide fit option (8.5 Wide)
Cushioning: ABZORB midsole cushions and absorbs impact
Breathability: Leather upper limits breathability
Durability: NDurance rubber outsole lasts in wear
Weight: Lightweight EVA foam adds comfort
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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.