The best walking shoes can do more than just provide comfort and an enjoyable walking experience. As Miguel Cunha, DPM, a board-certified foot and ankle surgeon and founder of Gotham Footcare in Manhattan, explains, they are also an important choice for maintaining foot health. And with specific issues like plantar fasciitis, overpronation, or repetitive ankle injuries, finding a walking shoe that caters to your own body’s specific demands is all the more important.
Karena Wu, PT, DPT, a board-certified clinical specialist in orthopedic physical therapy and the owner of ActiveCare Physical Therapy in New York City, adds that the right walking shoe will absorb forces from the ground and minimize compression. These features can help anyone ensure comfort and reduce the potential for injuries.
To find the best walking shoes for men on the market, we extensively researched popular picks for a range of needs. We also used expert insights and product recommendations from both Wu and Cunha to make our picks. Finally, this article was reviewed by a podiatrist from our Medical Expert Board to ensure the accuracy of the medical information provided throughout the article.
What Healthcare Providers Want You to Know
- Fit: Wu tells us that elements like fit can be important for not only comfort but also safety, as tight shoes can cause blisters, bruising, pain, and other issues. Conversely, she explains that a loose shoe can cause sliding that will detrimentally impact balance while also potentially impeding intended functions such as arch support because those specific parts of the shoe won’t be hitting the proper part of the foot.
- Stability: Wu explains that stability is important to avoid injuries, especially for people who overpronate or face recurring ankle sprains. To test for stability in a shoe, he suggests trying to bend it in half. If it cannot be easily bent, it has a rigid foot shank, which indicates good stability. He also suggests testing for a rigid heel counter by squeezing the heel of the shoe.
- Specificity: Cunha explains that your own specific anatomy, biomechanics, and the specific activity you’re doing will affect the proper shoe for you. Wu adds that it’s important to accommodate your own particular physical needs.
When to See a Healthcare Provider
Cunha tells us that people should see a healthcare provider if there are:
- Any visible differences in the appearance of the skin or nails on the foot.
- Numbness or tingling, which can be indicative of nerve damage
- Issues with walking or standing
- Wounds that won’t heal (particularly for people with diabetes or circulation issues)
- Signs of infection, such as redness or warmth
- Recurring issues such as ingrown toenails or plantar fasciitis
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Zappos
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Wide options with spacious toe box
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Lighter than previous models
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Suited toward people with bunions
Key Specs
Sizes: Standard: 7–16; Wide: 7–15 | Weight: 8.7 ounces | Cushioning Level: Balanced | Materials: Polyester, nylon, EVA foam
Why We Recommend It
Recommended by both Cuhna and Wu for their wide and spacious toe box and available in both standard and wide widths, we found Hoka’s Clifton 9 to be the best walking shoes for men with wide feet. Cunha recommends them for people with wider feet or bunions, and Wu also appreciates Hokas’ shoes in general for providing a cloud-like feel, excellent cushioning, and joint support. Additionally, in our experience, these fit true to size and are comfortable from the first wear.
As the ninth version of this shoe, this particular Clifton model is designed with lightness in mind while boasting even more cushioning than previous models by adding three millimeters of stack height. While offering more cushioning, this model still falls centrally between “responsive” and “plush,” making it a less cushioned alternative to Hoka’s Bondi 8, which is our pick for anyone who has to stand all day.
Keep In Mind
While we like the style of the chunkier sole, some people may prefer a more streamlined look. Additionally, this option may not be ideal for people who need more stability, as it falls on the lower end of the stability scale.
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REI
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No wide sizes
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Not waterproof
Key Specs
Sizes: 7–14 | Weight: 7.16 ounces | Cushioning Level: High | Materials: Polyester, foam
Why We Recommend It
Weighing just 7.16 ounces, On’s Cloud 5 is a lightweight pick that doesn’t sacrifice anything to get there. Cunha recommends them and describes these shoes as the most lightweight yet fully cushioned running shoes available. He also likes that they are comfortable and stylish as an added bonus.
Wu recommends these shoes for their cushioning, responsive sole, and speed lacing system that prevents lace pressure in the forefoot. The speed lacing system also makes them super easy to take on and off, but if it isn’t appealing to you, a traditional pair of laces is also featured in the box.
The Cloud 5 creates its cushioning primarily through the brand’s proprietary CloudTec Zero-Gravity foam that works to absorb impact for softer landings. A breathable mesh upper also helps to create a lighter profile, but the lightness doesn’t sacrifice support.
Keep In Mind
These shoes won’t be ideal for people with issues like bunions because they don’t come in wide sizes. Additionally, they’re not waterproof, though On does sell a waterproof version of these shoes.
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New Balance
Key Specs
Sizes: 7–14 | Weight: 15 ounces | Cushioning Level: High | Materials: Pigskin, polyurethane, EVA foam
Why We Recommend It
Cunha recommends New Balance’s Made in UK 991v2 because they feature a rigid heel counter for ankle stability. This component helps maintain proper foot alignment by locking down the rearfoot, which improves the comfort and fit around the heel, helps prevent slippage and limits the foot’s side-to-side movement. By keeping its shape with each heel strike, it also helps relieve pressure on the metatarsals and plantar fascia, explains Cunha. Likewise, it can alleviate factors that contribute to overpronation, the collapse of the arch, metatarsalgia, and eventually plantar fasciitis.
While pricier than other shoes, Cunha also likes them for their cushioning and shock absorption and tells us that they are built to last with EVA in the midsole and a tougher polyurethane rim specifically designed to enhance support, stability and durability for overpronators. They are also stylistically popular, featuring a pigskin, suede, and mesh upper that updates the classic style with a more modern flair.
Keep In Mind
These shoes are heavier than others on our list, weighing 15 ounces. They also only come in a single color, and some people find them to run small.
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Amazon
Key Specs
Sizes: 6– 16 | Weight: 10.7 ounces | Cushioning Level: Maximum | Materials: Mesh, foam
Why We Recommend It
Wu recommends Asics’ Gel Kayano for their toe box width and good arch support. As Cunha explains, shoes that work well for plantar fasciitis have anatomical arch support to help reduce pressure on the plantar fascia and prevent further stretching of this ligament, which relieves pain and allows it to heal. The combination of superior cushioning and a durable sole for shock absorption can also aid in preventing plantar fascia fatigue, which supports healing.
Asics’ Gel-Kayano shoes feature the brand’s proprietary lightweight, supportive foam, which provides stability while also helping to reposition your arch with each step. We also love that they offer the maximum cushioning available from Asics and include the brand’s GEL technology for reducing shock absorption.
These shoes are designed for neutral and overpronating foot types alike. Finally, if you prefer the look of a less clunky walking shoe, Wu notes that these are a good pick but assures that the less clunky appearance doesn’t diminish their ankle support.
Keep In Mind
They may not be the most breathable shoes, and they tend to run a bit large.
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REI
Key Specs
Sizes: 7–16 | Weight: 10.80 ounces | Cushioning Level: Plush | Materials: Mesh, foam, rubber
Why We Recommend It
Hoka’s Bondi 8 are on the higher end of cushioning offered by Hoka, giving a plush underfoot feel. That’s why they’re our pick for anyone who has to stand all day. We love that they offer serious support as well as memory foam cushioning around the ankles.
We appreciate that the resilient foam used in this model strikes a nice balance between softness and bounciness when walking. And for added comfort, they come in standard, wide, and extra wide options so that you can find the perfect fit with plenty of room in the toe box, no matter the size and shape of your foot. Finally, they feature a breathable mesh construction, so you won’t have to worry about standing around in sweaty shoes all day.
Keep In Mind
While the exceptional cushioning is what earns this pick high marks for us, it also creates a chunkier look that not everyone will love. They are also heavier than other options.
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Danner
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Waterproof
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Spacious toe box
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365-day warranty
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Run small
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Longer break-in period
Key Specs
Sizes: 7–14 | Weight: 28 ounces | Cushioning Level: Not listed | Materials: Leather, TPU, Gore-tex
Why We Recommend It
Bunions occur when the big toe leans in, causing a bump to form on the joint below it. While genetics play a role, an overly tight shoe can also contribute. To provide relief from bunions and prevent them from getting worse, Cunha recommends these shoes from Danner, which he likes specifically for their spacious toe box and because they come in both medium and wide widths.
Cunha also likes these shoes because they are lightweight and durable and include rigid heel counters for excellent ankle support. The more boot-like design of the outsoles has grooves to assist with walking on wet terrain. On the inside, a Gore-Tex liner helps provide waterproofing. As an added bonus, these come with a 365-day warranty.
Keep In Mind
These shoes tend to run a bit small and may have a longer break-in period than other options on this list.
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Brooks
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Plush comfort and breathable upper
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16 color options to choose from
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Seamless heel to toe transition
Key Specs
Sizes: 7.5–15 (also available in narrow, medium, wide, and extra wide) | Weight: 9.5 ounces | Cushioning Level: More cushioning | Materials: Not listed
Why We Recommend It
A combination of style and comfort-promoting features helps to make Brooks Ghost 16 the best walking shoes for everyday wear. According to Cunha, these are exceptional for their overall engineering. They provide a plush feel (thanks to a nitrogen-infused midsole) and a comfortable fit with a padded outsole that offers a seamless heel-to-toe transition.
Up top, the mindfully designed mesh upper also promotes breathability and stretch for added all-day-long comfort. Finally, Brooks has updated this model from previous Ghost models by focusing on a lighter overall weight of 9.5 ounces. With 16 color options, you can complement your style with brighter looks or more subdued options.
Keep In Mind
Because these shoes don’t offer extra support, they might not be the best for overpronation (which is more common in people with flat feet) or supination (which is more common in people with high arches).
How We Selected the Best Walking Shoes for Men
To find the best walking shoes for men, we spoke with two experts to understand what people should be looking for in a walking shoe. We also researched a number of popular items on the market. Finally, we whittled our list of picks down to only options specifically recommended by both of our experts. In particular, we focused on the following:
- Conditions: We looked for options to accommodate each of the most common foot issues, including overpronation, plantar fasciitis, and wide feet.
- Comfort: Because everybody’s feet are different, we included picks that prioritize cushioning as well as others that are more geared toward stability and support.
- Weight: Because they are walking shoes, we were sure to include lighter options, which tend to make walking easier and more efficient.
- Materials: We focused on including durable materials that are geared toward providing maximal comfort and breathability.
What To Look for in Walking Shoes
- Wide Toe Box: While this may be more pertinent to people with bunions, Cunha explains to us that fashionable shoe choices such as heels or shoes with pointed toes can compress the toes together, which can cause ingrown toenails or exacerbate bunions. Wide toe boxes help to prevent this issue.
- Materials: Cunha recommends materials that can last and withstand the consistent impact and wear and tear of walking. Additionally, he suggests options that feature mesh and other breathable materials for ventilation to keep your feet cool and dry.
- Terrain: It is important to consider where and when you’ll be walking. Cunha recommends water-resistant or waterproof models for people who embrace the elements and traction on the bottom of their shoes to keep them safe from falls.
- Support: As Cunha tells us, arch support is important for people with issues like flat feet or high arches to assist with pain or discomfort. Wu adds that support, in general, is important to ensure that, no matter your foot type, you can properly move from the hind, mid, and forefoot to transfer weight and load and generate the appropriate energy to absorb forces and propel the body forward.
- Cushioning: As Cunha tells us, the right amount of cushioning not only offers comfort but also provides shock absorption while reducing arch fatigue. He recommends seeking out shoes with ample cushioning, specifically in the heel and midsole sections, to reduce impact on joints when walking.
Benefits of Using the Right Walking Shoes
The proper and most comfortable walking shoes for your body and needs can have benefits that go beyond the foot. These include:
- Posture: Cunha tells us that the proper walking shoe will positively impact the structural alignment of the feet, ankles, knees, hips, and back to assist with posture.
- Injury Prevention: Wu tells us that proper walking shoes help absorb shock forces from the ground and also work well with your own particular gait for efficiency and to lower the risk of injury. Cunha also explains that properly fitting shoes will assist with even weight distribution across the foot and help lower the risk of joint deformities developing.
- Comfort: As Wu explains, adequate cushioning will work to minimize compression, resulting in a more comfortable step.
Our Experts
Our picks were informed through the vast knowledge provided by our experts. They also helped to provide us with all of the insight necessary to understand what people need from a walking shoe, and to understand how the proper shoes can improve health and the walking experience. These experts include:
- Miguel Cunha, DPM, a board-certified foot and ankle surgeon and founder of Gotham Footcare in Manhattan
- Karena Wu, PT, DPT, OCS, COMT, CSCS, CKTP, CPI, FAAOMPT, a board-certified clinical specialist in orthopedic physical therapy, and owner and clinical director of ActiveCare Physical Therapy in New York City and Mumbai
Why Trust Verywell Health
Jack Byram is a freelance writer that frequently covers health and wellness topics. As an exercise fanatic, he goes to the gym most days of the week, and he is an avid walker, opting for walking instead of driving or using the subway whenever possible. He has tried numerous walking shoes over his lifetime, including picks on this list, which he finds suitable not just for walking, but going to the gym and for everyday life.
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