15 Best Walking Shoes for Women, Recommended by Podiatrists
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Whether you’re on your feet all day at work or exploring a new city on vacation, the best walking shoes can make all the difference. Fortunately, there are plenty of comfortable sandals, sneakers flats, and even heels designed to absorb impact, adapt to your stride, and ease pressure on your joints. The ones you choose depend on your feet—maybe you’re managing plantar fasciitis, dealing with flat feet that need extra arch support, or your high arches could benefit from ample cushioning. To help you find the right pair for you, we consulted podiatrists, marathoners, medical professionals who work long shifts, and travel writers who log miles across the globe for their top picks—and put them to the test ourselves. Below, find the best walking shoes for women—footwear so comfortable that you’ll forget you’re wearing any at all.
The best walking shoes for women, at a glance
- Best Overall: Hoka Clifton 10, $150
- Best for Plantar Fasciitis: On Cloudpulse, $150
- Best for Flat Feet: Asics Gel-Nimbus 27, $165
- Best for All-Day Wear: Nike V2K,
$120$85 - Best for Wide Feet: New Balance 530, $119
How we tested walking shoes
What we looked for
To ensure we recommend only the best walking shoes, we reached out to podiatrists, Glamour contributors, runners, and travel writers to share their top picks for walking shoes that perform well on various terrains. Our reviewers had a diversity of feet types and evaluated shoes based on the following key criteria:
- Support: Shoes were evaluated based on how well they aligned with different arch types and provided structure, important especially for those who overpronate.
- Comfort: Reviewers looked for shoes with adequate cushioning in the heel and midsole, ensuring a satisfying fit for long periods of walking without fatigue.
- Design: Reviewers looked for shoes with a curved or rocker-style sole to encourage a smoother stride and help stabilize gait. Heel cushioning was also considered to ensure additional shock absorption during walking.
- Materials: Shoes with breathable mesh uppers were preferred for warmer weather, while leather or suede options were considered for those needing more protection in cooler climates.
- Versatility: The ability of shoes to perform well in both hiking and running contexts was evaluated, with an emphasis on lightweight, supportive shoes that also work for everyday wear.
- Durability: Shoes were tested for traction, especially for those who walk on pavement or trails. A solid tread pattern was considered essential for preventing slips and extending the life of the shoes.
- APMA Seal of Acceptance: Shoes that met the standards for foot health set by the American Podiatric Medical Association (APMA) were given extra consideration, ensuring they supported overall well-being during extended wear.
Best Walking Shoe Overall: Hoka Clifton 10
- Courtesy of brand
- Original photo from Gabrielle Kassel testing HOKA Women's Clifton 10 Sneaker
- Pros: Supportive and plush but not too stiff; lightweight; secure upper that’s not too rigid; has APMA Seal of Acceptance
- Cons: May feel too thick and cushy for anyone used to flatter, more minimalist styles
Unless you live under a sneaker-less rock (hey, it’s possible), you’ve probably spotted all sorts of people passing you on the street, at the gym, or at the grocery store sporting Hoka walking shoes with their hefty heel heights (the thickness of the sole, measured from the ground up to the point where the foot sits).
Podiatrists consistently recommend the brand’s footwear for comfortable shoes, including the latest Clifton 10. “It has won the American Podiatric Medical Association (APMA) Seal of Acceptance multiple times,” says Jason Gold, DPM, a board-certified podiatrist with Foot, Ankle & Leg Vein Center in Boynton Beach, Florida. Despite the sneaker’s ample arch support and layers of cushioning, it’s impressively lightweight, which allows you to walk for longer periods with less stress and strain on the musculoskeletal system of the lower extremity, says Gold. This 10th iteration of the style now has an 8-mm heel stack (instead of the 5 mm of earlier models) that supports the foot’s natural rocking motion, helping you move further without expending as much pressure and energy.
“I walk my puppy a minimum of three miles per weekday and up to seven on the weekend. No matter our distance, the Hoka Clifton is my go-to shoe for walking her because the foam insole cradles my foot, rather than allowing the weight of my foot to sink in like my body on a memory foam mattress,” says Glamour contributor Gabrielle Kassel. “I also love that slim profile of the upper, which keeps my foot secure without feeling too snug. What sets it apart from the earlier models I’ve worn is how much va-va-voom I get per step. My high-energy border collie loves how much faster our walking pace has been!”
(It’s worth noting that, if the Clifton 10 is low on sizes, the Hoka Bondi 9 is another great option; however, experts prefer the Clifton because it’s “much lighter in weight in comparison, which may make it a more suitable, comfortable choice for many walkers,” says Mohammad Rimawi, DMP, a board-certified podiatrist with Manhattan Foot Specialists in New York City.)
Type: Sneaker | Heel drop: 8 mm | Shoe weight: 8.8 oz. | Cushioning: Maximum | Width Options: Regular, wide, extra wide | Closure type: Lace-up | Sizes: 5–12 | Colors: 7 | APMA Seal of Acceptance: Yes
Best Walking Shoe for Plantar Fasciitis: On Cloudpulse
- Pros: Minimalist style; wide toe box gives extra stability; grippy rubber sole
- Cons: May not feel cushy enough for some (like someone with flatter feet)
Swiss-based On shoes have been trendy for a few years now, and they’re especially appealing if you’re dealing with plantar fasciitis or need extra heel stability. Unlike Hokas and other ultra-cushioned walking shoes, On styles have a lower stack height but still offer a deep heel cup and solid arch support to help relieve pressure on the plantar fascia.
Several of our contributors love On Cloudpulse’s style. “The wide toe box gives me plenty of space to feel grounded in any activity, with really nice support and shock absorption, and the stiff heel counter keeps my foot locked in,” says Glamour contributor Jennifer Heimlich. Its sleeker body makes them ideal for all-day treks across cobblestones in new cities—without adding bulk to your baggage.
“When I first tried this shoe, I had to spend some time getting used to the structured feel, but I realized that it does have great heel support and it’s now my go-to shoe for the gym,” says Glamour contributor Alex Frost. “The Cloudpulse in particular has specific lateral support features, making you feel more stable as you move side to side, something I do in my fitness class. So keep these in mind if you want a more minimalist feel without the massive bulk and cushioning vibes—plus, they have some super-cute colors.”
Type: Sneaker | Heel drop: 6 mm | Shoe weight: 9.28 oz. | Cushioning: Moderate | Sizes: 5–11 | Width Option: Medium | Closure type: Lace-up | Colors: 6
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Best Walking Shoe for Flat Feet: Asics Gel-Nimbus 27
- Pros: Shock-absorbing-gel heel cushioning eases pain; has narrow and wide sizing; has APMA Seal of Acceptance
- Cons: Rather bulky
“Asics’s gel cushioning is amazing for shock absorption, which really helps if your plantar fasciitis pain flares up from impact,” says Sean Ormond, MD, a dual board-certified physician in anesthesiology and interventional pain management, who recommends the Nimbus 27 as a walking shoe for flat feet (or for anyone who underpronates, as it has extra arch support and its design softens the landing of the outer side of the heel as it hits the ground). The APMA–approved running sneaker has a soft, stretchy tongue that doesn’t dig into the top of the foot when you move, and Shital Sharma, DPM, CEO, a board-certified foot and ankle surgeon, appreciates that you can easily slot a custom insole or orthotic insert into these shoes.
Type: Sneaker | Heel drop: 8 mm | Shoe weight: 9.3 oz. | Cushioning: Maximum | Width options: Regular, narrow, wide | Closure type: Lace-up | Sizes: 5–13 | Colors: 17
Best Walking Shoe for All-Day Wear: Nike V2K Run
- Courtesy of brand
- Original photo from Hannah Singleton testing Nike V2K Running Shoe
- Pros: Cushioned heel reduces impact on joints; on-trend design; versatile for multiple activities
- Cons: Tongue may dig into foot; no wide sizing
A shoe trend that we’re loving is chunky platform sneakers, especially 2000s-era silver ones that you can pair with white maxi skirts or flowy white dresses. Apart from looking great, according to Suzanne C. Fuchs, DPM, board-certified podiatrist and sports-medicine specialist in Florida, the cushioning in the heel is essential in a good walking shoe because it helps reduce the impact on the feet and joints when you lace up for serious mileage. That’s particularly true if you suffer from a condition like plantar fasciitis.
“When I know I’ll be out and about all day but I want a sneaker that will look cute with my favorite wide-leg jeans, I wear my Nike V2K Runs. (I can’t get enough of the translucent and metallic overlay details!),” says Glamour contributor Hannah Singleton. “I’ve racked up almost 15 miles in one day in these, and my feet always feel fresh because the heel has plenty of cushion. They stand up to heavy wear and are versatile enough that I use them for light workouts too.” Bonus: Singleton says they’re both durable and versatile. “They stand up to heavy wear, and I use them for light workouts too.”
Type: Sneaker | Heel drop: 12.8 mm | Shoe weight: 11.11 oz. | Cushioning: Maximum | Width option: Regular | Closure type: Lace-up | Sizes: 5–16.5 | Colors: 15
Best Walking Shoe for Wide Feet: New Balance 530
- Pros: Under $75; casual, timeless design; wide toe box; has APMA Seal of Acceptance
- Cons: Limited colorways
Bruce Pinker, DPM, a foot and ankle surgeon at Progressive Footcare in New York City, says that people with wide feet need to be careful to seek out a pair of shoes with enough room in the forefoot “to prevent cramping of the toes.” These editor- and Taylor Swift–approved New Balance shoes offer plenty of breathing room for all foot shapes and sizes, even if you’ve got bunions. The cushioning is balanced, supportive, and very durable. We also like that they quite literally go with everything: Pair them with your favorite white jeans or flared leggings—either way you’ll look great.
“When I say I’ve lived in my New Balance 530s for the past 18 months, you best believe I can count on one hand the number of outings I’ve been on without them,” says Glamour senior European commerce editor Sophie Cockett. “I’ve got them in two colors—the silver-navy colorway and the powder blue—and I find they go with everything. Jeans, my go-to tailored trousers, leggings. I even wear them to the gym when I’m doing weights or upper-body work.”
For a more cushioned New Balance option, consider the Fresh Foam 1080s, which Glamour contributor and marathoner Jenny McCoy swears by for both long-distance running and casual neighborhood strolling.
Type: Sneaker | Heel drop: 11.9 mm | Heel height: 2 in. | Shoe weight: 10.9 oz. | Cushioning: Moderate | Sizes: 5.5–12 | Width options: Regular, wide (D) | Closure type: Lace-up | Colors: 2
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Best Walking Shoe for Cushioning: Asics Gel-Kayano 31
- Pros: Cushioning and stability reduces strain on joints; midsole design helps prevent overpronation; has APMA Seal of Acceptance
- Cons: Some wearers find the toe-box area to be small
For her own walks, Dr. Fuchs reaches for the Asics Gel-Kayano, which boasts thick, soft cushioning plus stability features. Brooke Taylor, personal trainer and owner of Taylored Fitness NY, is also a fan, describing it as “one of my all-time favorite sneakers for anyone who overpronates or needs extra stability—whether you’re strength training, walking, or hiking,” she tells Glamour. The Kayano, she explains, delivers a winning combo of support and responsive cushioning “that absorbs impact and reduces strain on your joints.”
Taylor also loves how the structured midsole helps keep feet in a neutral position, which can prevent excessive inward rolling of the ankle (a motion known as overpronation, something people with flat feet are more inclined to do) and reduce chances of discomfort in the knees, hips, and lower back. “This shoe supports proper alignment and keeps you moving pain-free, which is why I highly recommend it to all of my clients,” she says.
Type: Sneaker | Heel drop: 10 mm | Shoe weight: 9.5 oz. | Cushioning: Maximum | Width options: Regular, narrow, wide | Closure type: Lace-up | Sizes: 5–13 | Colors: 15
Best Walking Shoe for Standing All Day: Brooks Ghost 16
- Pros: Four width options (including narrow and extra-wide); high heel drop helps with Achilles tendonitis; has APMA Seal of Acceptance
- Cons: Firmer and less cushy than other running and walking shoes
For anyone who’s on their feet all day, Dr. Pinker recommends looking for sneakers with some ankle support. “In some cases, running shoes can be very supportive for those who stand a lot,” he says. The lightweight Brooks Ghost 16, with soft, cloudlike midfoot cushioning, is a great option for this purpose, with a wide toe box that still feels comfy even when your feet start to swell. It also has a high heel-to-toe drop (12 mm)—an elevation that can help relieve strain on the Achilles tendon that flares up during walking and running for some people.
Glamour reviewer Pamela Stahl, who walks 35 to 40 miles a week, has worn the Ghost for 10 years. “Every time I visit my podiatrist, he mentions what a great shoe I’m wearing—he loves the support and the right amount of cushion,” she says, adding that the fit is super comfortable right out of the box. “This shoe hits my feet in all the right places. I never feel I have to break them in.”
Type: Sneaker | Heel drop: 12 mm | Shoe weight: 8.5 oz. | Cushioning: Moderate | Width options: Medium, narrow, wide, extra-wide | Closure type: Lace-up | Sizes: 5–13 | Colors: 25+
Best Walking Shoe for Ankle Support: Danner Adrika
- Pros: Strong ankle support; waterproof; keeps out cold and moisture in all weather; lightweight
- Cons: Clunky for everyday wear
When walking involves trekking across boulders and streams, turn to these hiking boots. They offer a balance between street style and trail-ready performance. Built to handle trails and sidewalks, the Danners are waterproof, comfortable, and surprisingly stylish. The suede upper gives them a classic look, while the grippy rubber sole helps you stay steady on everything from dirt paths to rainy cobblestones. A soft, supportive footbed and lightweight feel make them easy to wear all day—whether you’re hiking in the woods or just running errands around town.
“These are the hiking shoes I turn to when I hit the trail, but they’re also lightweight, waterproof, and pretty enough to serve as rain and snow boots too,” says Glamour commerce editor Malia Griggs. “Their high-cut design stabilizes my ankle from rolling when I trip on a loose stone, and they keep cold and moisture effectively out. I let my friend borrow them hiking in the Scottish Highlands, and she came back such a fan that she bought her own pair.”
Type: Hiking boot | Heel drop: Not listed | Heel height: 5 in. Shoe weight: 29 oz. per pair | Cushioning: Maximum | Width option: Medium | Closure type: Lace-up | Sizes: 5–10 | Colors: 5
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Best Walking Shoe for Arch Support: Altra Experience Flow
- Pros: Exceptionally wide toe box lets toes breathe; rocker-style sole propels foot forward; has APMA Seal of Acceptance
- Cons: Narrow midfoot; cushioning is very firm
If you’re logging long hours on your feet, having extra space up front can make a big difference. Altra running shoes are known for their especially roomy forefoots, which let your toes spread naturally (a godsend for anyone with bunions, hammer toes, or neuromas). The Altras are a favorite of Dr. Sharma’s. “People with flat feet often benefit from shoes that offer a wide fit, especially in the toe box,” she says. Rocker-style soles make it easier to move through each stride, and at just around 7 oz., these feel light even after a full day of standing and walking.
“I love these shoes because my feet don’t feel crammed, my toes can wiggle, my foot doesn’t feel scrunched on the sides, they make my back and hips feel supported, and I want to walk,” Glamour reviewer Francoise Bentley says. She loves their lightweight feel, sturdy arch support, ample space in the toe box, and the bounce she feels every time she takes a step. “I had no idea that was possible in a sneaker. I’ve worn them for years since, and now so do my kids.”
Type: Sneaker | Heel drop: 4 mm | Shoe weight: 7.2 oz. | Cushioning: Moderate | Width option: Medium | Closure type: Lace-up | Sizes: 5.5–12 | Colors: 9
Best Flats for Walking: Vionic Alameda Flats
- Pros: Available in three widths; contoured footbed aligns the foot; impressive shock absorption; has APMA Seal of Acceptance
- Cons: Not as supportive as a sneaker (but above average for a flat)
Mary Janes are one of the biggest shoe trends of 2025—they have a timeless silhouette and are versatile to style with denim and dresses. But like most flat shoes, they’re not usually a popular option for foot health. This isn’t the case with Vionic’s Alameda ballet flat, which Casey Ann Pidich, DPM, a podiatrist at NYU Bellevue Hospital, recommends for its arch support. “The shoe’s insole is designed to align the foot properly, reducing overpronation and alleviating strain on the plantar fascia,” she says. “The contoured footbed cradles the arch, providing consistent support that you won’t find in an average Mary Jane flat.” They’re stylish, come in three widths, and have an adjustable Velcro strap that makes them easy to take on and off (and to give a custom fit). (Plus, you can save $10 off your first pair with this discount code.)
Type: Flat | Heel drop: 0 mm | Heel height: 0.4 in. | Shoe weight: 11.2 oz. | Cushioning: Minimal | Width options: Medium, narrow, wide | Closure type: Adjustable Velcro strap | Sizes: 5–12 | Colors: 4
Best Clog for Walking: Dansko Professional
- Pros: Roomy toe box offers plenty of space for your toes; rocker sole; slides on and off easily; has APMA Seal of Acceptance
- Cons: May feel stiff or hard if you’re not used to the design; much heavier than a sneaker
Danskos are some of the best shoes for arch support, says podiatrist Tara Parks, DPM, who wears the clogs to work and its dressy sandals to weddings. The shoes have a contoured insole, a spacious toe box, and a soft leather upper that molds to your foot as you wear it. “Their supportive footbed and rocker sole promote a natural walking motion,” says Dr. Fuchs. It’s a go-to pick for people who stand on their feet all day, such as medical professionals, teachers, and those who work in the restaurant industry. We like these clogs, which are stylish enough to wear with a dress, and are made of a versatile nubuck leather that becomes more supple with age.
“When I work in the hospital, I love my Danskos,” says Sara Shobin, a nurse practitioner at Intermountain Healthcare in Salt Lake City. Her pair (the light tan-honey color) is so old that she can’t even remember when she got them, so you can rest assured these podiatrist-approved and nurse-approved slip-ons will hold up for years to come. The toe box is nice and roomy (no cramming or hot spots), and the inner frame provides the kind of stability Dr. Fuchs says all walking shoes should have so that you won’t roll your ankle.
Type: Clog | Heel drop: 26 mm | Shoe weight: 17 oz. | Cushioning: Minimal | Width options: Regular, wide | Closure type: Slip-on | Sizes: 4.5–13 | Colors: 22 (on Dansko.com)
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Best Walking Sandal: Birkenstock Arizona Big Buckle Oiled Leather
- Courtesy of brand
- Original photo by Glamour commerce director Brie Schwartz in Birkenstock Arizona
- Pros: Footbed molds to sole; stylish gold buckles; great for walking across stone, sand, etc.; easy slip-on design
- Cons: Break-in period needed
Ettore Vulcano, MD, an orthopedic surgeon specializing in foot and ankle issues at Mount Sinai in New York City, recommends these Birk slides to patients. “They don’t bend too much, and are nice and sturdy,” he says. They’re a perennial favorite comfortable walking sandal among Glamour editors and contributors, too, because of how their cork footbeds contour and cradle your foot over time—and how cute they are, especially with glitzy gold buckles like these. “I’ve worn Birkenstocks since I was a kid,” says Glamour’s Griggs. “They break in quickly and mold to my wide, flat feet. Slipping one on feels like such relief, and I’ve worn them across various environments in the world.”
“As a writer, I often go on short trips for work and these Birkenstocks will be the only shoes I bring with me,” says freelance writer Melissa Kravitz Hoeffner. “I can comfortably wear them for miles of walking in cities, on easy hikes, on beach walks, and on the plane with socks. They match with pretty much every outfit, and they’ll serve as my going-out shoes too. I’ve worn them for a week in Paris, all over California, and they’re my go-tos at home in New York. I’m a big walker and usually get the bottoms replaced at my local cobbler’s once or twice a year. I’ve bought these Arizonas for over a decade and replace them every few years.”
Type: Sandal | Heel drop: 0 mm | Shoe weight: 9 oz. | Cushioning: Moderate | Sizes: 5–10.5 | Width Option: Narrow | Closure type: Slide-on (with adjustable buckles) | Colors: 7
Best Sandal for Hiking: Chaco Z/1 Rapid Pro
- Courtesy of brand
- Original photo from Glamour reviewer Julia Eskins in Chaco Z/1 Rapid Pro
- Pros: Grippy, rubber soles absorb shock; great for walking and hiking; waterproof
- Cons: Adjustable strap may drag on ground
“Chacos are built to withstand the wilderness, thanks to their heavy rubber soles, durable webbing, and snug heel straps,” says Glamour commerce editor Jake Henry Smith. “But while they excel as sporty hiking sandals, they aren’t just great for long walks on the trail; I love their crunchy, utilitarian charm for walking around New York too.” The Z/1 Rapid Pro has a slimmer, lighter profile than some of Chaco’s other styles, so it’s comfy enough to trek in all day. Its contoured footbed cushions the arch to reduce fatigue, while adjustable straps keep the shoe snugly on the foot.
“The Z/1 Rapid Pro Sandals are my go-to for water-based adventures, from kayaking to hikes with river crossings, because they’re waterproof and grippy,” says travel journalist Julia Eskins. “The company was founded by a rafting guide, which the design of the sandals reflects. I also appreciate that the company offers a repair program that covers things like buckle replacements and resoling, which helps increase the lifespan of the sandals (and keeps them out of landfills).”
Type: Sandal | Heel drop: 0 mm | Shoe weight: 13 oz. | Cushioning: Moderate | Sizes: 5–12 | Width Option: Medium | Closure type: Adjustable strap with buckle | Colors: 3
Best Lightweight Walking Sandal: Teva Original Universal
- Courtesy of brand
- Original photo from Glamour commerce editor Malia Griggs in Teva Original Universal
- Pros: Under $75; tons of colors and patterns; quick-dry; grippy sole
- Cons: No half or wide sizing; not cushy enough for some
The Teva Originals are a popular choice for comfy, casual walks because of their soft footbed and flexible rubber soles. The Velcro straps make them super easy to adjust, and the smooth lining helps prevent rubbing or blisters. They’ve got a springy EVA foam midsole for just the right amount of bounce, and the recycled, colorful strap options are a nice touch.
“I own six pairs of Tevas (they’re under $100!), and these are my faves for everyday,” says Griggs. “They’re so much lighter-weight than any of my other walking shoes and sandals, and come in so many cute patterns and shades. My feet never feel the pound of the concrete in them. In the summer, I wear them everywhere, including to the beach in lieu of flip-flops. If you’re looking for something even more reinforced—for hiking, say—I also love the Teva Hurricane Xlt2, which has squishy, shock-absorbing layers.”
“I have been a die-hard Chaco fan for a decade, but these Teva Originals have taken the place of my daily walking-around sandals,” says Glamour contributor and gear tester Maggie Slepian. “They are comfortable and easy to adjust, and I love the textured foam footbed that feels both supportive and squishy. I have these in a fun ’80s-throwback strap pattern that adds a splash of color to my outfits.”
Type: Sandal | Heel drop: 2.1 mm | Shoe weight: 5.5 oz. (women’s size 7) | Cushioning: Moderate | Sizes: 5–12 | Width Option: Medium | Closure type: Adjustable hook-and-loop straps | Colors: 15+
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Best Loafer for Walking: Vionic Uptown
- Pros: Deep heel cup to keep your foot in place; contoured foam footbed; has wide sizing; has APMA Seal of Acceptance
- Cons: Narrow toe box
A pair of charming loafers with the APMA’s Seal of Approval? Count us in. With an elevated heel and shock-absorbing, contoured-foam footbed, the comfy Uptown loafer is ready for walking. “I highly recommend this shoe because of the timeless style and all the embedded foot-loving technology,” says podiatrist Jacqueline M. Sutera, DPM, who works with Vionic as a medical consultant and rocks these loafers herself. “I wore it for the first time to an event where I was on my feet and walking around for over four hours. Since then I have worn them to work several times and they have become even more comfortable.” The shoes have a variety of materials and colors to choose from, including leather and suede, and a light, durable rubber outsole. (Pro tip: Save on your first pair with these Vionic promo codes.)
Type: Loafer | Heel drop: 3 mm | Heel height: 1.12 in. | Shoe weight: 17 oz. | Cushioning: Minimal | Width options: Medium, wide | Closure type: Slip-on | Sizes: 5–13 | Colors: 18
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All your questions about walking shoes, answered
| Shoe | Best for | Pros | Cons | Price |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Best Overall: Hoka Clifton 10 | Standing all day; flat feet; plantar fasciitis; wide feet | Plush; lightweight; ample arch support | May feel too cushy | $150 |
| Best for Plantar Fasciitis: On Cloudpulse | Plantar fasciitis; arch support; travel; standing all day | Minimalist; wide toe box; grippy sole | May feel too flat for flat feet | $150 |
| Best for Flat Feet: Asics Gel-Nimbus 27 | Flat, wide feet; running | Shock-absorption on heel; has wide and narrow sizing | Bulky | $165 |
| Best for All-Day Wear: Nike V2K Run | Walking all day; gym workouts; plantar fasciitis | Cushioned heel; on-trend aesthetic | Tongue may dig into foot | $120 |
| Best for Cushioning: Asics Gel-Kayano 31 | Flat feet; overpronation; joint pain | Reduces strain on joints; super cushy | Toe box too small for some | $165 |
| Best for Standing: Brooks Ghost 16 | Wide feet; standing; Achilles tendonitis; ankle support | Four width options; high heel drop | May feel too firm | $140 |
| Most Stylish: New Balance 530 | Wide feet; bunions; styling | Wide toe box; versatile design; under $75 | Limited colors | $69 |
| Best for Arch Support: Altra Experience Flow | Barefoot feel; bunions; hammer toes; neuromas; flat feet | Exceptionally wide toe box; rocker sole | Narrow midfoot; cushioning is very firm | $140 |
| Best for Ankle Support: Danner Adrika | Hiking; rain, snow; flat feet; wide feet; ankle support | Strong ankle support; waterproof; lightweight | Clunky for everyday wear | $160 |
| Shoe | Best for | Pros | Cons | APMA Seal of Acceptance | Price |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Best Clog for Walking: Dansko Professional | Standing all day | Roomy toe box; rocker sole; slides on and off | May feel too stiff and heavy | Yes | $140 |
| Best Loafer for Walking: Vionic Uptown Loafer | Everyday walking; flat feet | Deep heel cup keeps foot in place; contoured footbed; has wide sizing | Narrow toe box | Yes | $98 |
| Best Walking Sandal: Birkenstock Arizona Big Buckle Oiled Leather | Flat feet; walking all day | Footbeds mold to sole; easy slip-on design; stylish | Break-in period needed | No | $160 |
| Best Sandal for Hiking: Chaco Z/1 Rapid Pro | Flat feet; arch support; hiking; walking | Grippy, shock-absorbing soles; waterproof | Strap may drag on ground | No | $100 |
| Best Lightweight Walking Sandal: Teva Original Universal | Everyday walking; light arch support | Under $75; tons of colors; quick-dry | No half or wide sizing; may not feel cushy enough | No | $60 |
| Best Flats for Walking: Vionic Alameda | Light everyday walking; arch support | Available in three widths; impressive shock-absorption; contoured footbed | Not as shock-absorbing as sneakers | Yes | $140 |
How to choose a walking shoe
First, figure out your foot type. Begin with the arches (the area between the ball of your foot and heel). Imagine stepping on wet paint—if you have a high arch, you’ll only see a little paint on your foot print; if you have a neutral arch, you’ll see paint on around half of your foot; if you have a low arch or flat feet, you’ll see paint on most of your sole. “The height of the arch affects the direction of how your foot rolls—or pronates—when walking,” says Katrina Manos, DPM, podiatrist at Westside Podiatry Group in Rochester, New York.
The shoe you choose depends on your foot type. “Walking shoes should support your foot’s natural mechanics while providing enough cushioning to absorb shock,” says Jacqueline Sutera, a board-certified podiatrist. Have flat feet? You likely tend to roll your ankles inward and will want to pick a relatively rigid shoe that cradles the foot and keeps it in place. Have neutral or high arches? You can get away with shoes that are a bit more flexible.
What’s heel drop?
Heel drop—also called “heel-to-toe drop”—is the difference in height between the heel and the forefoot of a shoe, usually measured in millimeters. For example, if the heel sits 24 mm off the ground, and the forefoot is 14 mm, the shoe has a 10 mm drop.
Higher heel drops (8 mm+): Shift more pressure to your knees and hips, and can be helpful if you’re prone to Achilles tightness or need extra heel-cushioning.
Moderate heel drops (6–8 mm): Encourage a more natural stride and might work better if you land on your midfoot or forefoot. This range is ideal for heel-strikers who want moderate support without sacrificing a grounded feel.
Low to zero drops (0–4mm): Keep your heels and toes level, mimicking barefoot movement. They’re great if you have strong arches or land on your midfoot—but not ideal if you need more arch or heel support.
Meet our experts
- Katrina Manos, DPM, a board-certified podiatrist at Westside Podiatry Group in Rochester, New York
- Jason Gold, DPM, a board-certified podiatrist with Foot, Ankle & Leg Vein Center in Boynton Beach, Florida
- Mohammad Rimawi, DMP, a board-certified podiatrist with Manhattan Foot Specialists in New York City
- Suzanne C. Fuchs, DPM, a board-certified podiatrist and sports-medicine specialist in Florida
- Tara Parks, DPM, a podiatrist at Boulder Medical Center and marathoner
- Sean Ormond, MD, a dual board-certified physician in anesthesiology and interventional pain management
- Shital Sharma, DPM, CEO, a board-certified foot and ankle surgeon
- Jacqueline M. Sutera, DPM, a New York-based podiatrist who works with shoe-brand Vionic as a medical consultant
- Bruce Pinker, DPM, a foot and ankle surgeon at Progressive Footcare in New York City
- Ettore Vulcano, MD, an orthopedic surgeon specializing in foot and ankle issues at Mount Sinai
- Sara Shobin, a nurse practitioner at Intermountain Healthcare in Salt Lake City
- Brooke Taylor, personal trainer and owner of Taylored Fitness NY
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