The 8 Best Walking Shoes | Reviewed & Tested

Choosing the Best walking shoes is not just about style or brand also it is about comfort, performance, and the small details that keep your feet happy mile after mile. The wrong pair can lead to fatigue, sore joints, and even long-term strain. The right pair, however, can completely change how you walk, recover, and feel at the end of the day. Over the past few months, our team tested more than 50 walking shoes from leading brands such as Nike, Skechers, Hoka, New Balance, On, Altra, and Under Armour. Each pair was walked, worn, and compared for comfort, support, traction, and durability in real-world conditions from daily commutes to fitness trails.

After weeks of testing and detailed evaluation, we have narrowed it down to the 8 best walking shoes of 2025, the models that stood out for their balance of cushioning, stability, and all-day wearability. In this guide, you can find in-depth reviews, key specs, honest pros and cons, and simple tips to help you choose the perfect pair for your walking goals. And we also review the hiking shoe in detail.

Best Walking Shoes Review

When it comes to finding the best walking shoes, the right pair can make all the difference. A great walking shoe should offer all-day comfort, reliable cushioning, and the right balance of flexibility and support. It should keep your feet stable on long walks, handle both city pavements and park trails, and stay breathable enough for warm weather use.

Our top pick for men is the Altra Experience Flow, designed for natural movement and long-distance comfort. For women, the Hoka Transport stands out with its plush cushioning and excellent grip across different terrains. If you are looking for value without compromise, the Under Armour Charged Assert 10 and Skechers GO WALK Joy deliver strong comfort at an affordable price.

For those who need extra support or special features, the On Cloud 6 provides superior stability, while the Kizik Athens offers an effortless hands-free design. And if you’re shopping on a budget, the Skechers GOwalk Flex Hands-Free Slip proves that comfort doesn’t have to come with a high price tag. Together, these models represent the very best walking shoes of 2025 tested, compared, and selected to keep you moving comfortably every day.

1. Best Overall Walking Shoe for Men –  Altra Experience Flow

The Altra Experience Flow takes the top spot as the best overall walking shoe for men in 2025. It stands out for its natural stride design, soft cushioning, and lightweight feel. Altra is known for making foot-shaped shoes that let your toes spread naturally, and the Experience Flow continues that idea with smoother movement and better comfort.

What makes this shoe special is the zero-drop platform, which means your heel and forefoot sit at the same height. This design helps improve posture and balance while walking and reduces pressure on the knees and lower back. The midsole uses Altra’s EGO foam, giving a mix of softness and energy return that works well for long city walks and light fitness use.

The engineered mesh upper is breathable and flexible, keeping your feet cool and comfortable during long hours of wear. The rubber outsole is durable and bends easily with your step, helping you get better traction and a smoother feel. Overall, the Experience Flow gives a natural, comfortable walking experience that feels close to barefoot while still offering solid support and protection for everyday use.

2. Best Overall Walking Shoe for Women – Hoka Transport – Women’s

The Hoka Transport is the best overall walking shoe for women in 2025. It is designed for those who want comfort, support, and stability in one durable and stylish shoe. Hoka is known for making shoes with excellent cushioning, and the Transport continues that tradition. It feels soft under your feet but still gives you a steady and confident walk.

This model fits well for both everyday use and light outdoor walking. The EVA midsole provides soft cushioning that absorbs impact with every step, while the strong rubber outsole gives good grip on roads, sidewalks, and park trails. It is a great choice for women who walk on different surfaces throughout the day.

The upper part is made of breathable mesh with supportive overlays that hold the foot comfortably without feeling tight. It is also made with some recycled materials, which makes it a good option for people who care about the environment. The 8 10 mm heel drop helps your feet move naturally and smoothly from heel to toe during long walks.

Whether you are walking to work, taking daily steps for fitness, or enjoying a weekend stroll, the Hoka Transport gives you excellent comfort, soft cushioning, and reliable traction that make walking easy and enjoyable.

3. Best Buy for Men – Under Armour Charged Assert 10

The Under Armour Charged Assert 10 earns its spot as the best value walking shoe for men in 2025, offering an impressive mix of comfort, performance, and durability at a reasonable price. It’s built for men who walk daily, whether for exercise, work, or long commutes, and need a shoe that can handle constant motion without wearing out quickly.

Under Armour’s Charged Cushioning midsole is the main highlight here. It delivers firm yet responsive support that absorbs impact and protects the joints during long walks. The upper features a combination of lightweight mesh and durable leather overlays, providing breathability and structure where it is needed most. The fit feels snug without being restrictive, and the padded ankle collar adds an extra layer of comfort for all-day wear.

The outsole uses solid rubber with strategic flex grooves, which creates a good balance between traction and flexibility. This makes the Charged Assert 10 suitable for walking on pavement, gym floors, or park paths. It’s a practical shoe that performs well across different conditions, especially for its price.

4. Best Bang for the Buck Women’s Shoe – Skechers GO WALK Joy – Women’s

The Skechers GO WALK Joy is one of the most comfortable and affordable walking shoes for women in 2025. It is designed for easy, everyday wear and offers a light, flexible feel that makes walking enjoyable. The slip-on design means you can wear it quickly without tying laces, which is perfect for busy mornings or casual outings.

The shoe uses Skechers’ lightweight cushioning foam that keeps your feet supported through long hours of walking. It feels soft under the heel and forefoot, helping to reduce fatigue during long walks or standing periods. The breathable mesh upper allows air to flow and keeps your feet cool, while the flexible outsole bends naturally with your steps.

The GO WALK Joy is ideal for women who want a comfortable shoe for daily use, travel, or casual exercise. It may not be for serious fitness walking, but for everyday comfort and value, it performs better than many shoes that cost twice as much.

5. Best Women’s Walking Shoe for Support – On Cloud 6 – Women’s

The On Cloud 6 is one of the best women’s walking shoes in 2025 for those who need extra support and stability. It is designed to feel light, cushioned, and steady under your feet, making it a good choice for long walks, travel, and daily use.

The shoe uses On’s CloudTec cushioning system, which includes small pods under the sole that absorb impact and make each step smoother. The Helion foam midsole adds soft but responsive cushioning, giving you comfort without feeling too squishy. It supports your arch and heel well, helping reduce strain during long walks or standing for hours.

The engineered mesh upper keeps the shoe breathable and flexible, while the rubber outsole provides good grip on both dry and slightly wet surfaces. Its stylish design also makes it easy to wear for casual outings, not just for walking.

6. Best Hands-Free Design for Women – Kizik Athens – Women’s

The Kizik Athens is a smart choice for women who want comfort and convenience in one shoe. It is best known for its hands-free design, which lets you slide your foot in without bending down or using your hands. This makes it ideal for women with busy routines, mobility issues, or anyone who simply wants an easy on-and-off experience.

The shoe uses responsive EVA foam cushioning that keeps your feet comfortable throughout the day. It provides moderate support for everyday walking and has a stretch-knit upper that adapts to your foot shape. The inside feels soft and secure, while the sturdy heel design helps the shoe keep its structure even after repeated use.

The rubber outsole offers good grip for daily walking on pavement, indoors, or light outdoor surfaces. While it is not meant for heavy exercise or hiking, the Kizik Athens performs well as a casual, supportive shoe for regular use.

7. Best Walking Shoes Under $50 – Skechers Men’s Gowalk Flex Hands Free Slip

The Skechers Men’s GOwalk Flex Hands-Free Slip is one of the best budget walking shoes you can buy in 2025. It offers great comfort, flexibility, and convenience at a very affordable price. The hands-free slip-on design allows you to wear the shoe easily without bending or using your hands, which makes it perfect for daily use.

The shoe features Skechers’ lightweight cushioning foam, which gives a soft and comfortable feel underfoot. It absorbs shock during long walks and reduces pressure on the heels and arches. The knit mesh upper keeps your feet cool and flexible, allowing natural movement while maintaining a snug fit.

The rubber outsole provides good grip and flexibility, making it safe for walking on smooth or slightly rough surfaces. While it may not offer the high-end durability or structure of premium walking shoes, it performs surprisingly well for its price and is ideal for casual, everyday walking.

8. Feethit Mens Slip On Walking Shoes

The Feethit Men’s Slip-On Walking Shoes are a great option for men who want comfort, breathability, and ease of use in a lightweight design. These shoes are built for casual walking and daily wear, offering a clean and simple look that fits both active and relaxed lifestyles. The shoe features a stretch-knit upper that moulds comfortably to your foot while keeping it cool throughout the day. It is soft, flexible, and allows air to circulate, which helps reduce sweating during long walks. The EVA foam midsole provides light cushioning and absorbs impact well for short to medium walks.

The rubber outsole gives reliable traction on flat and indoor surfaces, while the slip-on design makes it quick to wear and remove. Although it is not made for long-distance walking or rough terrain, it performs very well for daily activities, errands, or travel.

How We Tested 

To find the best walking shoes of 2025, we tested each pair over several weeks in real-life conditions. Our team wore them during daily walks, long commutes, and light workouts to see how they performed in comfort, grip, and long-term use. Every shoe was scored on five key performance metrics: comfort, traction, support, durability, and weight.

We focused on how comfortable each shoe felt during extended walking sessions, how well the outsole gripped different surfaces, and whether the midsole provided enough support for arches and heels. We also looked at build quality and materials to measure durability over time. Finally, we compared the weight of each shoe to see how it affected overall walking efficiency.

By combining lab-based checks with real-world testing, we ensured every pair that made this list delivered consistent performance, long-lasting comfort, and true value for money.

We rate walking shoes on five performance metrics:

• Comfort 
• Traction 
• Support
• Durability 
• Weight

How to Choose the Best Walking Shoes

Choosing the right walking shoe is about more than just picking a well-known brand or a stylish design. It is about finding the perfect match for your feet, walking style, and daily routine. The best walking shoe should feel comfortable from the moment you put it on, support your arches, and provide stability as you move. A shoe that fits your walking purpose can prevent fatigue, reduce joint stress, and even improve posture. When selecting a pair, consider where you will be walking, how long your walks usually last, and what level of cushioning or flexibility you prefer. Understanding the main types of walking shoes will help you choose a pair that meets your comfort, fitness, and lifestyle needs.

Types of Walking Shoes

Walking shoes come in different types, each designed to match specific walking habits, terrains, and comfort preferences. Some people walk casually throughout the day, while others treat walking as part of their fitness routine. That’s why shoe design, cushioning, and flexibility vary from model to model. Understanding these types helps you choose a shoe that truly fits your lifestyle.

Daily walking shoes focus on comfort and versatility, making them ideal for casual use. Fitness walking shoes are built for faster, more structured walks and often provide better arch support. Max-cushioning shoes are made for long distances or people who want extra softness underfoot. Meanwhile, minimalist shoes aim to give a natural, barefoot-like feel that strengthens foot muscles over time.

1. Daily Walking Shoes

These are designed for everyday wear and light activity. Daily walking shoes focus on all-day comfort, with soft midsoles, flexible outsoles, and breathable uppers that keep your feet cool. They are great for walking around the neighborhood, running errands, or traveling. Most models also have simple designs that pair well with casual outfits, making them both practical and stylish.

2. Fitness Walking Shoes

Fitness walking shoes are made for longer or faster-paced walks. They usually feature firmer midsoles that provide better energy return, strong arch support, and secure heel counters to keep your feet stable. These shoes are ideal if you walk for exercise, track your steps daily, or power walk several miles at a time. They also tend to be more durable and supportive than casual walking shoes.

3. Max-Cushioning Walking Shoes

If you often walk on hard surfaces or need extra comfort for your knees and joints, max-cushioning walking shoes are your best option. They come with thick foam midsoles that absorb shock and give a soft, cloud-like feel. These shoes are popular among people who walk long distances, have sensitive feet, or prefer maximum impact protection over lightweight design.

4. Minimalist Walking Shoes

Minimalist walking shoes take the opposite approach. They are lightweight, flexible, and have thinner soles that allow your feet to move more naturally. They promote better foot strength and balance, but they also require your muscles to do more work. These shoes are best for experienced walkers who have already adapted to a low-cushion style or want a barefoot-like walking experience.

Getting Started With a Walking Routine

Starting a walking routine is one of the easiest and most effective ways to improve your health. You do not need a gym, expensive gear, or strict schedules, just a good pair of walking shoes and a plan you can stick to. Walking helps strengthen your heart, boost energy, improve posture, and reduce stress, but the key is consistency.

Begin slowly if you are new to regular walking. Start with 10 to 15 minutes a day at a comfortable pace, then increase your time or distance each week as your endurance improves. Focus on your walking form, keep your shoulders relaxed, swing your arms naturally, and land gently on your heels before rolling through to your toes.

Do You Need a Gender-Specific Shoe?

Men’s and women’s walking shoes may look similar, but they are made differently to match the shape of each foot type. Women’s shoes are usually narrower at the heel and wider at the front. They often have softer midsoles to suit a lighter body weight. Men’s shoes are broader with firmer cushioning and stronger support around the arch and midfoot.

Choosing a gender-specific shoe is not a strict rule. What truly matters is comfort and fit. Some women feel more comfortable in men’s shoes if their feet are wider. Some men prefer women’s versions for a closer fit. The best walking shoe is the one that supports your stride, feels balanced, and stays comfortable even after long walks.

Why Trust Outdoor Searcher

At Outdoor Searcher, we believe honest testing and real experience matter more than marketing claims. Every walking shoe in this guide was selected after detailed research and hands-on testing. Our team spent weeks walking in different environments, including pavements, parks, and light trails, to understand how each pair performs in real life.

We compared more than fifty models from leading brands and rated them on comfort, traction, support, durability, and weight. Each shoe was tested for both short daily walks and longer sessions to see how well it holds up over time. We also considered feedback from regular walkers and experts who use these shoes every day.

Our goal is simple. We recommend only those walking shoes that offer true comfort, reliable performance, and value for money. Every product you see here has earned its place through real testing, not paid promotion.

Conclusion

Finding the Best walking shoe can make a big difference in how comfortable and confident you feel every day. The best pair supports your stride, reduces strain on your joints, and keeps you moving without discomfort. After testing and comparing over fifty models, the shoes listed in this guide stood out for their comfort, stability, and long-term performance.

If you want all-around performance, the Hoka Transport for women and the Altra Experience Flow for men are top choices. For budget-friendly options that still deliver comfort, the Under Armour Charged Assert 10 and Skechers GO WALK Joy are strong contenders. For everyday convenience, models like the Kizik Athens and Skechers GOwalk Flex offer great ease of use.

No matter which pair you choose, focus on comfort and fit first. A good walking shoe should feel natural from the first step and support you through your daily routine. The right pair will not only make walking easier but also turn it into something you enjoy every single day.

FAQs

Q: How often should walking shoes be replaced?

Walking shoes usually last between 300 and 500 miles of use. Replace them when you notice the cushioning feels flat, the tread is worn, or your feet start feeling sore after walks. Regular walkers may need a new pair every six to eight months.

Q: Can running shoes be used for walking?

Yes, you can use running shoes for walking as long as they are flexible and stable. However, some running shoes have thicker soles and more heel lift, which can feel less natural during slow or steady walks.

Q: What type of walking shoe is best for beginners?

For beginners, daily walking shoes with soft cushioning and good arch support are best. They are comfortable, easy to wear, and help reduce fatigue as you build your routine.

Q: Are slip-on walking shoes good for long walks?

Slip-on walking shoes are convenient and comfortable for short or casual walks. For longer distances, shoes with laces or adjustable straps offer a better fit and support.

Q: How can I make my walking shoes last longer?

Use them only for walking, keep them clean, and let them air dry after each use. Avoid washing them in a machine, and store them in a cool, dry place to prevent wear and odor.

Q: Should walking shoes fit tight or loose?

Walking shoes should fit snugly around the heel and midfoot but leave enough space in the toe box for your toes to move freely. A good fit prevents blisters and keeps your feet stable.