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Forbes
13-06-2025
- Health
- Forbes
The Best Walking Shoes For Seniors That Are Stable And Comfortable
Staying active looks different for everyone, and walking is one of the most accessible and beneficial ways to keep moving, especially as priorities and routines shift over time. Whether you're shopping for yourself or a loved one, the best walking shoes for seniors are designed to provide comfort, support and stability. We leaned on our years of footwear experience to identify walking shoes for seniors that are secure, supportive and easy to put on. Based our findings, the Vionic 23Walk 2.0 is our top choice for most senior walkers. Walk in stable, supportive comfort with a pair of the best walking shoes for seniors. To differentiate from traditional walking shoes, we started by looking at the variables that matter most to older walkers: improved stability and support to keep you upright; cloud-like cushioning to absorb impact; adequate grip to improve traction; and details that enhance ease of wear, like slip-on designs and collapsible heels. With these essentials in mind, here are the best walking shoes for seniors, along with helpful tips to find your ideal fit. Vionic Sizes: 5 to 13 (women's); 7 to 14 (men's) | Weight (per pair): N/A | Cushion: Moderate | Closure type: Laces I chose the Vionic 23Walk 2.0 as the best walking shoe for seniors because it balances comfort, support and everyday wearability. Designed with a breathable mesh liner, it allows airflow to keep feet cool throughout the day, even if they've been around the block a time or two. The EVA midsole is soft and responsive, and a gentle rise promotes easy heel-to-toe transitions, which is great for longer walks. Underfoot, a durable rubber outsole provides the grip seniors need to ensure they stay upright on a variety of surfaces. Keep in mind this is a style-forward shoe—it's not purely athletic like the other options in this guide. And yet, it still earns the APMA Seal of Acceptance for promoting foot health. Ultimately, it checks all the boxes for older walkers who want reliable support without sacrificing aesthetics. New Balance Sizes: 5 to 12 (women's); 7 to 16 (men's) | Weight (per pair): 15.4 ounces | Cushion: Moderate | Closure type: Laces For senior walkers looking for a balance of comfort, quality and affordability, the New Balance Fresh Foam 680v8 is hard to beat. It's made with New Balance's signature Fresh Foam midsole, which is often praised for its cushy, lightweight ride that feels soft yet supportive. The neutral support also suits most foot types. Add in New Balance's inclusive sizing, with wide fits for men and women, and you've got yourself a well-rounded shoe that costs less than $100—a rarity nowadays. The shoe's traditional laces might pose a challenge for those with arthritis or dexterity issues (in which case, a slip-on shoe like the On Cloud 6 might be a better option), but if that's not a concern, the Fresh Foam 680v8 is a great pick for seniors in need of an affordable, well-rounded walking shoe. Skechers Sizes: 6 to 10 (women's); 8 to 14 (men's) | Weight (per pair): N/A | Cushion: Maximum | Closure type: Slip-on For seniors who prefer plush comfort that doesn't come at the cost of stability, the Skechers Slip-Ins Go-Walk deliver ample cushioning in a supportive design. While overly cushioned walking shoes can lead to instability, this design strikes the right balance. It has a stable foam base and a supportive, removable insole that helps disperse weight and improve comfort. Skechers' signature Heel Pillow cradles the heel to prevent foot movement inside the shoe while walking. Despite its lace-up look, this is actually a slip-on shoe. It's also machine-washable, which makes it easy to keep the shoe looking and feeling fresh. Though it doesn't come in wide sizing and may offer more cushioning than some seniors need, those looking for a supportive, easy-to-put-on walking shoe will enjoy the fit, stability and comfort this style provides. Brooks Sizes: 5 to 13 (women's); 7 to 15 (men's) | Weight (per pair): 17.6 ounces | Cushion: Moderate | Closure type: Laces Backed by over 20 years of positive reviews from runners and walkers alike, the Brooks Adrenaline GTS 24 is a great choice for seniors who need additional stability. It's nitrogen-infused foam cushioning makes for a softer walk, while the signature GuideRail support system helps reduce excess motion. This is helpful for overpronators or those who tend to wear their shoes more on the inside edge than the outside. The shoe's breathable mesh upper means all-day comfort, and with a wide range of sizes, colors and widths to choose from, there's a great fit for just about every foot. Technically, it may offer more structure than some seniors need, especially if you have a neutral gait, but at the end of the day, it's a proven, do-it-all shoe for those who need the guidance and support. On Sizes: 5 to 12 (women's); 7 to 15 (men's) | Weight (per pair): 15.2 ounces | Cushion: Moderate | Closure type: Slip-on The On Cloud 6 combines a sleek and modern design with senior-friendly functionality, thanks to the shoe's slip-on style. Made with On's Zero-Gravity CloudTec cushioning (the unique base that looks a bit like a cloud), it's soft yet responsive underfoot. The Speedboard technology also improves energy return, so each step feels a bit more lively. On updated this shoe with a new sock liner and wider opening, so it's softer and easier to put on than previous versions, and the shape and structure have also been refined to improve support. While it looks like a purely athletic shoe, the Cloud 6 leans more leisurely, and that makes it a good fit for seniors who want to avoid laces without compromising comfort and quality. This pair is an investment, but you won't find many walking shoes that look as good and offer the same degree of versatility. The Forbes Vetted gear team researches and writes dozens of footwear and apparel guides each year, covering everything from Hoka running shoes to sandals for plantar fasciitis. We also cover essential gear for comfort and long-term health, especially when it comes to age-specific apparel, like walking shoes for seniors. To ensure this guide contains helpful, reliable recommendations, we focused on factors that matter to senior walkers who prioritize comfort, stability and ease of use. Shoes were selected based on the following criteria: Finding the right walking shoes can make all the difference in comfort, safety and mobility for seniors. To help you make an informed choice, here's a breakdown of key factors to consider when selecting a supportive, well-fitting pair. Many older adults experience problems with balance, which is why stability is extra important. A shoe that prioritizes stability should keep your foot locked in place and provide more security, even when you're walking on uneven terrain. Look for a firm heel, solid arch support and a wide base that promotes balance. Ultimately, feeling steady and confident through each step is key to walking in comfort. Feet absorb a lot of impact, and ample cushioning helps soften each step. This is especially helpful for those with joint pain or arthritis. While cushioning is subjective (what feels good for some feet doesn't feel good for others), a well-cushioned shoe takes pressure off your knees, hips and back, and makes it easier to comfortably cover more distance. Slippery shoes with poor traction can be a recipe for disaster, especially among seniors. Good grip prevents sliding on slick floors and wet or uneven surfaces, so you'll want to look for solid rubber soles and tread patterns designed to improve grip. Some rubber compounds, like those made by Vibram and Michelin, are known for offering better grip on all sorts of surfaces, like tiled floors and loose gravel. Putting on and taking off shoes shouldn't be a struggle. If you have stiff fingers, back pain or swelling, opt for slip-on styles, collapsible heels, and stretchy fabric to simplify the process.
CNN
30-04-2025
- Health
- CNN
The most comfortable walking shoes, according to podiatrists and shoe experts
Walking shoes quick picks Sneakers for walking: Vionic 23Walk 2.0 Sneakers Walking shoes for narrow feet: Brooks Addiction Walker 2 Slip-on walking shoes: Hoka Ora Recovery Slide 3 When it comes to exercise, walking may be the most accessible kind there is. All you need, at any age or fitness level, is a good pair of walking shoes. But whether you're just starting to clock your steps or already logging thousands a day, finding the proper footwear can make all the difference. To help you get going and to find the perfect fit, for everything from high arches to flat feet, CNN Underscored tapped podiatrists and other shoe experts for their favorite kicks to pound the pavement. Our list includes well-known players in the shoe space like Brooks, Hoka and New Balance, as well as a few under-the-radar brands. These picks are suitable for a range of foot types, support levels and budgets so you can find the best walking shoes for your needs. Asics Men's WalkRide Flytefoam These walking shoes are designed with Asics' proprietary Flytefoam, a lighter, more durable version of EVA foam. The responsive material won't weigh you down, yet still absorbs impact to keep each step comfortable. The foam is built to last and designed specifically for long-distance wear. Asics Women's WalkRide Flytefoam If you tend to run warm, or your feet do, you'll appreciate the materials in these shoes. 'The breathable upper is perfect for warm, sweaty feet. The Flytefoam cushioning in the midsole helps the shoe remain lightweight and comfortable,' Dr. Elizabeth Daughtry, DPM and board-certified foot and ankle surgeon, Men's 23Walk 2.0 Sneakers Daughtry recommends these walking shoes because they blend both function and fashion. They boast the American Podiatry Medical Association (APMA) Seal of Acceptance and are easy to wear on walks, your daily commute or just running errands. The subtle dad-shoe aesthetic also pairs well with jeans, joggers or shorts. Vionic Women's 23Walk 2.0 Sneakers Daughtry highlighted the firm heel counters, PU foam bases, EVA midsoles and removable arch supports as key features of these shoes, which makes them a solid choice for shorter-distance walks. Though the brand recommends wearing them a few hours at a time during the break-in period so your feet can gradually adjust to the orthotic support, Vionic thinks these shoes will become fully comfortable for all-day wear after about a week or Men's WK400 'This walking shoe is designed with a rocker bottom sole to facilitate heel-to-toe movement and a comfortably supportive EVA midsole that springs back with every step,' Dr. Miguel Cunha, podiatrist at New York City's Gotham Footcare, said. We love that the two finger loops on the heels make them easy to pull on, helping you get out the door faster. Keen Women's WK400 'The lugged rubber outsole is durable and thick for increased shock absorption,' Cunha said. This added cushioning helps protect your joints, even at a slower pace. Padded collars around the ankles also reduce the chance of blisters and discomfort. New Balance Men's Fresh Foam X 880v14 These are a tried-and-tested recommendation from Jeff Henderson, seasoned runner and owner of FleetFeet in Columbus, OH, who calls them a comfortable 'do-it-all shoe.' Part of the Fresh Foam lineup, the 880v14 are well-cushioned and supportive, with breathable mesh uppers that keep your feet comfortable and cool while you stroll. New Balance Women's Fresh Foam X 880v14 Henderson also finds these shoes extremely responsive. While they don't feature the traditional rocker soles, the responsive foam midsoles deliver just enough bounce to keep you moving forward. They're just as comfortable for that long walk as a quick grocery run. Plus, they come in a bunch of fun colors so you can show off your Men's Addiction Walker 2 These sneakers are available in four width options to help you find a pair that fits just right. 'Known for support and stability, these shoes are also suitable for those with flat feet or overpronation,' Dr. Mohammad Usman, a foot and ankle surgeon, said. The shoes also offer Brooks' maximum support and soft cushioning for a cloud-like feel. Brooks Women's Addiction Walker 2 Designed with daily walking in mind, the Addiction Walker 2 include features that will hold up in any type of weather. 'The slip-resistant outsole also adds safety on various surfaces,' Henderson said. Whether you're hitting the trails, sidewalk or track, you can trust that these shoes will offer solid footing with every Men's Ghost 16 Dr. Mohammad Rimawi, a podiatrist in New York City, recommends the Brooks Ghost range for his patients with narrow feet. 'With a 12-millimeter heel-to-toe drop, stable midsole and wide toe box, this shoe is ideal for everyday walking and can help alleviate stress on the feet,' he said. The cushioning is soft, but not overly plush, giving these shoes thinner outsoles and making them a more balanced pick for all-day wear. Brooks Women's Ghost 16 These shoes are certified as PDAC A5500 Diabetic shoes and boast the APMA Seal of Acceptance. The neutral-support design comes in two weatherized versions, including water-resistant materials for rainy days. We also like the wide range of colors, from easy-to-style neutrals to bright hues for a pop of Men's FWD Via Road Running Shoes Although these are labeled as road running shoes, Dr. Priya Parthasarathy, DPM, recommends them for walking too. The rocker helps propel you forward, and she noted that they 'have the widest toe box out there.' With a 4-millimeter drop, they offer a smooth ride, which keeps every step extra comfortable. Altra Women's FWD Via Road Running Shoes Parthasarathy also recommends these shoes for those with bunions and neuromas, thanks to the extra-wide toe box. The thick outsoles of the shoes reflects the maximum cushioning inside, while maintaining neutral support Men's Bondi 8 Hoka sneakers are known for their plush cushioning, and the Bondi 8 are no exception. 'This shoe's rocker-type structure allows for more natural foot movement, minimizing strain on the foot and calf,' Rimawi said. The rocker sole works to guide your stride smoothly, from heel strike to toe-off, providing stability and height. Hoka Women's Bondi 8 'My preference is Hoka, probably because I have a narrow arch, but I do find that the Hoka Bondi 8 is more comfortable than any other shoe I have worn,' Henry J. Rosales, president and CEO of America's Walking Club, said. The shoes also have the APMA Seal of Acceptance and are listed by the brand as best for walking and comfort. Despite their thick cushioning, the shoes are surprisingly lightweight and easy to wear all day Men's Clifton 9 Dr. Michael Galoyan at Metropolitan Podiatry recommends the Clifton 9 to help maintain foot health for walkers. The sneakers also boast the APMA Seal of Acceptance and are packed with comfort-focused features for walking. The gusseted tongues stay in place and the engineered mesh uppers promote breathability to help keep your feet cool on the go. Hoka Women's Clifton 9 These sneakers also get New York City podiatrist Dr. Emmanuel Fuzaylov's stamp of approval for their arch support, breathable materials, firm heel counter and rocker sole. The shoes are lightweight, give you a slight boost from the cushioning and include sockliners for added comfort. Hoka Ora Recovery Slide 3 Ideal for casual walks or warm-weather errands, these recovery slides are especially helpful after long walks or runs when your feet need a little TLC. The slides offer cloud-like cushioning for tired feet. If you prefer a more flip-flop style shoe, Galoyan suggests checking out the Hoka Ora Recovery Flip-Flop Sandals. 'They provide a soft footbed with enough rigidity to reduce stress on the feet,' he said. Hoka All-Gender Ora Recovery Mule Are they the most stylish shoes we've seen? No. But they're comfortable and simple to slip on and off. 'These sandals are engineered with a meta-rocker sole similar to the bottom of a boat that allows your foot to smoothly roll from heel to toe, minimizing shock on your foot, ankle, knees and back,' Cunha said. They're also functional for errand running, walks around the neighborhood or relaxing at home. Revitalign Men's Gaia Sneakers Daughtry recommends these sneakers for their anatomically designed arch support, which moves with your foot to offer excellent support, mile after mile. She describes the shoes as lightweight and comfortable, though the thick outsoles may look clunky, and the EVA midsoles help cushion and stabilize each step. Revitalign Women's Gaia Sneakers These shoes come in a range of colors, as well as a few neutral tones if you prefer a more subtle look. And, you can also grab them in both standard and wide widths to help you find the right fit. Designed for all-day comfort, they offer reliable support from morning to Men's Cohesion 17 These sneakers from Saucony are incredibly affordable, with a price tag under $75 that makes them a budget-friendly buy. The thinner cushioning creates a more minimalist, streamlined feel, so they shouldn't feel clunky or heavy. Breathable mesh uppers also allow air to flow in and out, keeping your feet at a cool, comfortable temperature. Saucony Women's Cohesion 17 'These walking shoes are spacious, comfortable and they provide excellent ankle and arch support,' Cunha said. The cushioning of the shoes absorbs impact as your feet hit the ground, and the shoes are durable for everyday walking. They are also available in wide and standard widths. Walking shoes are indeed different from running shoes, and there are a few key features to keep in mind while shopping. 'Walking shoes have more support in the midsole to help with the rolling motion of walking. The heel to toe drops also usually differ to accommodate the differences in gait pattern,' Parthasarathy said. Lower heel-to-toe drops promote a more natural foot movement, and is often something you find in shoes with a rocker design. Many of the podiatrists we spoke to recommend shoes with rocker-bottom shoes, a curved sole shape that does exactly what it sounds like. It helps your foot rock forward with each step, reducing the effort needed to push off, and allowing you to move more efficiently. Daughtry emphasized the importance of support and cushioning. 'Cushioning is an important aspect in a walking shoe, as shock absorption from the repetitive pounding that our feet undergo on a daily basis is key to avoiding problems or foot pain,' she said. She also suggests looking out for materials like mesh uppers, which promote breathability. Her overall advice? Trust your judgement. Everyone's needs are different, and the right walking shoes will depend on your environment and personal comfort. The following FAQs have been answered by Dr. Nelya Lobkova, DPM and Dr. Priya Parthasarathy, DPM. Can you use running shoes as walking shoes? Can you use running shoes as walking shoes? If your podiatrist has a say, odds are they'd recommend having different shoes for walking and running. 'Ideally, because the gait pattern differs so much between running and walking, it would be best to have two separate pairs of shoes for each activity,' Parthasarathy said. 'Walking shoes have more support in the midsole to help with the rolling motion of walking. The heel-to-toe drops also usually differ to accommodate the differences in gait pattern. However, both running and walking require cushioning and shock absorption in the shoes, so especially for those doing a run/walk program, they can be used interchangeably for short distances.' How often should you replace your walking shoes? How often should you replace your walking shoes? Parthasarathy recommends changing your walking shoes every 300 to 500 miles. 'Invest in your feet, they carry you through life. Sometimes the shoe does not look worn but suddenly you can bend them completely in half,' she said. In researching expert-recommended walking shoes from specific brands, 300 to 500 miles was the average answer from the podiatrists we spoke with. Should I buy walking shoes a size bigger? Should I buy walking shoes a size bigger? Parthasarathy noted that every brand's sizing will be different, so while you may be a size 8 at one brand, you might be a 7.5 in another. 'I do not think you need to go a size bigger. I tell my patients that they should have one thumb's width between the end of the shoe and their longest toe,' she said. She also recommends trying shoes on at the end of the day, which will help account for any regular swelling your feet experience. Dr. Nelya Lobkova, a podiatrist and founder of Step Up Footcare in New York City, gave us another tip to try while deciding on the right size shoes. 'Grab a pencil and step on a piece of paper on the floor to trace the outside of your foot,' she said. 'Next, put on the walking shoe and trace the outside of the sneaker over the drawing of the foot with a red pen. The red pen marking should encompass the pencil marking at all times.' For this article, we consulted the following experts to gain their professional insights. Dr. Miguel Cunha, a podiatrist at New York City's Gotham Footcare Dr. Elizabeth Daughtry, podiatrist, board-certified foot and ankle surgeon and Fellow in the American College of Foot and Ankle Surgeons Dr. Emmanuel Fuzaylov, a New York City-based podiatrist Dr. Michael Galoyan, a podiatrist at Metropolitan Podiatry in New York Jeff Henderson, owner of FleetFeet in Columbus, Ohio Dr. Nelya Lobkova, a podiatrist and founder of Step Up Footcare in New York City Dr. Priya Parthasarathy, podiatrist, partner at US Foot & Ankle Specialists and spokesperson for the APMA Dr. Mohammad Rimawi, a podiatrist in New York City Henry J. Rosales, president and CEO of America's Walking Club Dr. Mohammad Usman, foot and ankle surgeon and owner of Illinois-based Michigan Avenue Podiatry CNN Underscored has a team of skilled writers and editors who have many years of experience testing, researching and recommending products, and they ensure each article is carefully edited and products are properly vetted. We talk to top experts when applicable to make certain we are testing each product accurately, recommending only the best products and considering the pros and cons of each item. For this article, writer Ellen McAlpine compiled recommendations from experts and spoke to podiatrists about how to find the best walking shoes to help you start your walking shoe shopping journey.
CNN
29-04-2025
- Health
- CNN
The most comfortable walking shoes, according to podiatrists and shoe experts
Walking shoes quick picks Sneakers for walking: Vionic 23Walk 2.0 Sneakers Walking shoes for narrow feet: Brooks Addiction Walker 2 Slip-on walking shoes: Hoka Ora Recovery Slide 3 When it comes to exercise, walking may be the most accessible kind there is. All you need, at any age or fitness level, is a good pair of walking shoes. But whether you're just starting to clock your steps or already logging thousands a day, finding the proper footwear can make all the difference. To help you get going and to find the perfect fit, for everything from high arches to flat feet, CNN Underscored tapped podiatrists and other shoe experts for their favorite kicks to pound the pavement. Our list includes well-known players in the shoe space like Brooks, Hoka and New Balance, as well as a few under-the-radar brands. These picks are suitable for a range of foot types, support levels and budgets so you can find the best walking shoes for your needs. Asics Men's WalkRide Flytefoam These walking shoes are designed with Asics' proprietary Flytefoam, a lighter, more durable version of EVA foam. The responsive material won't weigh you down, yet still absorbs impact to keep each step comfortable. The foam is built to last and designed specifically for long-distance wear. Asics Women's WalkRide Flytefoam If you tend to run warm, or your feet do, you'll appreciate the materials in these shoes. 'The breathable upper is perfect for warm, sweaty feet. The Flytefoam cushioning in the midsole helps the shoe remain lightweight and comfortable,' Dr. Elizabeth Daughtry, DPM and board-certified foot and ankle surgeon, Men's 23Walk 2.0 Sneakers Daughtry recommends these walking shoes because they blend both function and fashion. They boast the American Podiatry Medical Association (APMA) Seal of Acceptance and are easy to wear on walks, your daily commute or just running errands. The subtle dad-shoe aesthetic also pairs well with jeans, joggers or shorts. Vionic Women's 23Walk 2.0 Sneakers Daughtry highlighted the firm heel counters, PU foam bases, EVA midsoles and removable arch supports as key features of these shoes, which makes them a solid choice for shorter-distance walks. Though the brand recommends wearing them a few hours at a time during the break-in period so your feet can gradually adjust to the orthotic support, Vionic thinks these shoes will become fully comfortable for all-day wear after about a week or Men's WK400 'This walking shoe is designed with a rocker bottom sole to facilitate heel-to-toe movement and a comfortably supportive EVA midsole that springs back with every step,' Dr. Miguel Cunha, podiatrist at New York City's Gotham Footcare, said. We love that the two finger loops on the heels make them easy to pull on, helping you get out the door faster. Keen Women's WK400 'The lugged rubber outsole is durable and thick for increased shock absorption,' Cunha said. This added cushioning helps protect your joints, even at a slower pace. Padded collars around the ankles also reduce the chance of blisters and discomfort. New Balance Men's Fresh Foam X 880v14 These are a tried-and-tested recommendation from Jeff Henderson, seasoned runner and owner of FleetFeet in Columbus, OH, who calls them a comfortable 'do-it-all shoe.' Part of the Fresh Foam lineup, the 880v14 are well-cushioned and supportive, with breathable mesh uppers that keep your feet comfortable and cool while you stroll. New Balance Women's Fresh Foam X 880v14 Henderson also finds these shoes extremely responsive. While they don't feature the traditional rocker soles, the responsive foam midsoles deliver just enough bounce to keep you moving forward. They're just as comfortable for that long walk as a quick grocery run. Plus, they come in a bunch of fun colors so you can show off your Men's Addiction Walker 2 These sneakers are available in four width options to help you find a pair that fits just right. 'Known for support and stability, these shoes are also suitable for those with flat feet or overpronation,' Dr. Mohammad Usman, a foot and ankle surgeon, said. The shoes also offer Brooks' maximum support and soft cushioning for a cloud-like feel. Brooks Women's Addiction Walker 2 Designed with daily walking in mind, the Addiction Walker 2 include features that will hold up in any type of weather. 'The slip-resistant outsole also adds safety on various surfaces,' Henderson said. Whether you're hitting the trails, sidewalk or track, you can trust that these shoes will offer solid footing with every Men's Ghost 16 Dr. Mohammad Rimawi, a podiatrist in New York City, recommends the Brooks Ghost range for his patients with narrow feet. 'With a 12-millimeter heel-to-toe drop, stable midsole and wide toe box, this shoe is ideal for everyday walking and can help alleviate stress on the feet,' he said. The cushioning is soft, but not overly plush, giving these shoes thinner outsoles and making them a more balanced pick for all-day wear. Brooks Women's Ghost 16 These shoes are certified as PDAC A5500 Diabetic shoes and boast the APMA Seal of Acceptance. The neutral-support design comes in two weatherized versions, including water-resistant materials for rainy days. We also like the wide range of colors, from easy-to-style neutrals to bright hues for a pop of Men's FWD Via Road Running Shoes Although these are labeled as road running shoes, Dr. Priya Parthasarathy, DPM, recommends them for walking too. The rocker helps propel you forward, and she noted that they 'have the widest toe box out there.' With a 4-millimeter drop, they offer a smooth ride, which keeps every step extra comfortable. Altra Women's FWD Via Road Running Shoes Parthasarathy also recommends these shoes for those with bunions and neuromas, thanks to the extra-wide toe box. The thick outsoles of the shoes reflects the maximum cushioning inside, while maintaining neutral support Men's Bondi 8 Hoka sneakers are known for their plush cushioning, and the Bondi 8 are no exception. 'This shoe's rocker-type structure allows for more natural foot movement, minimizing strain on the foot and calf,' Rimawi said. The rocker sole works to guide your stride smoothly, from heel strike to toe-off, providing stability and height. Hoka Women's Bondi 8 'My preference is Hoka, probably because I have a narrow arch, but I do find that the Hoka Bondi 8 is more comfortable than any other shoe I have worn,' Henry J. Rosales, president and CEO of America's Walking Club, said. The shoes also have the APMA Seal of Acceptance and are listed by the brand as best for walking and comfort. Despite their thick cushioning, the shoes are surprisingly lightweight and easy to wear all day Men's Clifton 9 Dr. Michael Galoyan at Metropolitan Podiatry recommends the Clifton 9 to help maintain foot health for walkers. The sneakers also boast the APMA Seal of Acceptance and are packed with comfort-focused features for walking. The gusseted tongues stay in place and the engineered mesh uppers promote breathability to help keep your feet cool on the go. Hoka Women's Clifton 9 These sneakers also get New York City podiatrist Dr. Emmanuel Fuzaylov's stamp of approval for their arch support, breathable materials, firm heel counter and rocker sole. The shoes are lightweight, give you a slight boost from the cushioning and include sockliners for added comfort. Hoka Ora Recovery Slide 3 Ideal for casual walks or warm-weather errands, these recovery slides are especially helpful after long walks or runs when your feet need a little TLC. The slides offer cloud-like cushioning for tired feet. If you prefer a more flip-flop style shoe, Galoyan suggests checking out the Hoka Ora Recovery Flip-Flop Sandals. 'They provide a soft footbed with enough rigidity to reduce stress on the feet,' he said. Hoka All-Gender Ora Recovery Mule Are they the most stylish shoes we've seen? No. But they're comfortable and simple to slip on and off. 'These sandals are engineered with a meta-rocker sole similar to the bottom of a boat that allows your foot to smoothly roll from heel to toe, minimizing shock on your foot, ankle, knees and back,' Cunha said. They're also functional for errand running, walks around the neighborhood or relaxing at home. Revitalign Men's Gaia Sneakers Daughtry recommends these sneakers for their anatomically designed arch support, which moves with your foot to offer excellent support, mile after mile. She describes the shoes as lightweight and comfortable, though the thick outsoles may look clunky, and the EVA midsoles help cushion and stabilize each step. Revitalign Women's Gaia Sneakers These shoes come in a range of colors, as well as a few neutral tones if you prefer a more subtle look. And, you can also grab them in both standard and wide widths to help you find the right fit. Designed for all-day comfort, they offer reliable support from morning to Men's Cohesion 17 These sneakers from Saucony are incredibly affordable, with a price tag under $75 that makes them a budget-friendly buy. The thinner cushioning creates a more minimalist, streamlined feel, so they shouldn't feel clunky or heavy. Breathable mesh uppers also allow air to flow in and out, keeping your feet at a cool, comfortable temperature. Saucony Women's Cohesion 17 'These walking shoes are spacious, comfortable and they provide excellent ankle and arch support,' Cunha said. The cushioning of the shoes absorbs impact as your feet hit the ground, and the shoes are durable for everyday walking. They are also available in wide and standard widths. Walking shoes are indeed different from running shoes, and there are a few key features to keep in mind while shopping. 'Walking shoes have more support in the midsole to help with the rolling motion of walking. The heel to toe drops also usually differ to accommodate the differences in gait pattern,' Parthasarathy said. Lower heel-to-toe drops promote a more natural foot movement, and is often something you find in shoes with a rocker design. Many of the podiatrists we spoke to recommend shoes with rocker-bottom shoes, a curved sole shape that does exactly what it sounds like. It helps your foot rock forward with each step, reducing the effort needed to push off, and allowing you to move more efficiently. Daughtry emphasized the importance of support and cushioning. 'Cushioning is an important aspect in a walking shoe, as shock absorption from the repetitive pounding that our feet undergo on a daily basis is key to avoiding problems or foot pain,' she said. She also suggests looking out for materials like mesh uppers, which promote breathability. Her overall advice? Trust your judgement. Everyone's needs are different, and the right walking shoes will depend on your environment and personal comfort. The following FAQs have been answered by Dr. Nelya Lobkova, DPM and Dr. Priya Parthasarathy, DPM. Can you use running shoes as walking shoes? Can you use running shoes as walking shoes? If your podiatrist has a say, odds are they'd recommend having different shoes for walking and running. 'Ideally, because the gait pattern differs so much between running and walking, it would be best to have two separate pairs of shoes for each activity,' Parthasarathy said. 'Walking shoes have more support in the midsole to help with the rolling motion of walking. The heel-to-toe drops also usually differ to accommodate the differences in gait pattern. However, both running and walking require cushioning and shock absorption in the shoes, so especially for those doing a run/walk program, they can be used interchangeably for short distances.' How often should you replace your walking shoes? How often should you replace your walking shoes? Parthasarathy recommends changing your walking shoes every 300 to 500 miles. 'Invest in your feet, they carry you through life. Sometimes the shoe does not look worn but suddenly you can bend them completely in half,' she said. In researching expert-recommended walking shoes from specific brands, 300 to 500 miles was the average answer from the podiatrists we spoke with. Should I buy walking shoes a size bigger? Should I buy walking shoes a size bigger? Parthasarathy noted that every brand's sizing will be different, so while you may be a size 8 at one brand, you might be a 7.5 in another. 'I do not think you need to go a size bigger. I tell my patients that they should have one thumb's width between the end of the shoe and their longest toe,' she said. She also recommends trying shoes on at the end of the day, which will help account for any regular swelling your feet experience. Dr. Nelya Lobkova, a podiatrist and founder of Step Up Footcare in New York City, gave us another tip to try while deciding on the right size shoes. 'Grab a pencil and step on a piece of paper on the floor to trace the outside of your foot,' she said. 'Next, put on the walking shoe and trace the outside of the sneaker over the drawing of the foot with a red pen. The red pen marking should encompass the pencil marking at all times.' For this article, we consulted the following experts to gain their professional insights. Dr. Miguel Cunha, a podiatrist at New York City's Gotham Footcare Dr. Elizabeth Daughtry, podiatrist, board-certified foot and ankle surgeon and Fellow in the American College of Foot and Ankle Surgeons Dr. Emmanuel Fuzaylov, a New York City-based podiatrist Dr. Michael Galoyan, a podiatrist at Metropolitan Podiatry in New York Jeff Henderson, owner of FleetFeet in Columbus, Ohio Dr. Nelya Lobkova, a podiatrist and founder of Step Up Footcare in New York City Dr. Priya Parthasarathy, podiatrist, partner at US Foot & Ankle Specialists and spokesperson for the APMA Dr. Mohammad Rimawi, a podiatrist in New York City Henry J. Rosales, president and CEO of America's Walking Club Dr. Mohammad Usman, foot and ankle surgeon and owner of Illinois-based Michigan Avenue Podiatry CNN Underscored has a team of skilled writers and editors who have many years of experience testing, researching and recommending products, and they ensure each article is carefully edited and products are properly vetted. We talk to top experts when applicable to make certain we are testing each product accurately, recommending only the best products and considering the pros and cons of each item. For this article, writer Ellen McAlpine compiled recommendations from experts and spoke to podiatrists about how to find the best walking shoes to help you start your walking shoe shopping journey.
