These Are the Most Comfortable Shoes to Log Your 10,000 Steps a Day
Today's walking shoes are sleeker and more stylish than ever. Whether you like to walk in sneakers, casual slip-ons, or sandals, there are so many comfortable shoes to choose from, but it's critical that you wear a pair best suited for your activity.
How to shop for the best walking shoes
The good news is that many running shoes can be used interchangeably with walking. In fact, many running shoes are suitable for walking because they're designed with special features with comfort in mind.
Paul Langer, DPM, a sports medicine podiatrist based in Minneapolis, Minnesota, and a Superfeet wellness panel member, says, "Running shoes are perfectly suitable for walking. In fact, I like running shoes better for my walking patients who have foot pain because there tends to be many more models to choose from, they also tend to be lighter in weight and more breathable than most walking shoes."
But the most important thing to consider, whether you're buying walking or running shoes for walking, is your own comfort. "We have to be our own expert on what feels more comfortable to us. For example, some people would prioritize cushioning over arch support, while others would find a roomy toe box more important than a snug instep," Dr. Langer explains.
However, it's important to note that cushioning isn't the only thing to look for if you're trying to prevent foot pain, Dr. Langer says. "A well-fit shoe with the proper amount of support and cushioning is often helpful, but the tricky part is determining what is the 'proper amount,'" he explains. "So focusing on overall comfort is more important than focusing only on cushioning."
That said, here are some other features to look for when shopping for comfortable walking shoes:
Contoured footbed
Wide toe box
Breathable and flexible upper
Deep heel cup for ankle stability
To keep your feet feeling good mile after mile, it's best to try a bunch on and go with the shoe that feels best for your stride. Pro tip: Try on walking shoes at the end of the day when your feet have expanded. Here you'll find our top picks based on fit, stability, and—of course—style.
Best Overall: ASICS Gel-Quickwalk 3 Walking Shoes
$45.94
4.1 out of 5 stars
200+ Amazon customer reviews
You can walk for miles in these walking shoes without feeling any hint of pain, thanks to ASICS's rear foot gel cushioning in the midsole, which helps absorb shock upon impact. They also have a durable rubber sole and a breathable upper that makes your feet feel great with every step. What's more, there's a molded foam insole that matches the natural contours of your feet.
An Amazon reviewer writes, "I power walk on the treadmill doing three to five miles a day. This is my second pair of ASICS gel quickwalk. I have tried so many others, but to me these are the best for my feet. They also run true to size!"
Best Value: Saucony Originals Bullet Sneakers
$20.78
4.4 out of 5 stars
1,000+ Amazon customer reviews
Saucony's original bullet sneaker is lightweight and has just enough arch support to keep your feet comfy when you're on the go. With a durable rubber sole, you can feel supported whether you're walking in rain or shine. "Love the sporty retro look of these," says one wearer in her Amazon review. "They're comfortable enough to wear all day, though they're best for walking and not for running around."
Best for Jogging: Brooks Bedlam Sneakers
$99.95
4 out of 5 stars
100+ Zappos customer reviews
Podiatrists like Brooks Bedlam sneakers because they are designed with a dynamic midfoot cushioning that supports a runner's foot as it moves and expands. They're also designed with special guidance technology that conditions your feet to stay in proper alignment, reducing heel and shin rotation. Walkers who want to add some jogging bursts or work their way to a 5K should consider snagging a pair of these walking shoes.
"I'm a walker and could have been wearing these running shoes and had far more comfort! I have buinons, plantar fasciitis, and heel spurs, so it's a big deal for me to find a pair of shoes that fit so well and provide comfortable cushioning and support," one Zappos customer says.
Best for Trail Walking: Keen's Terradora Waterproof Hiking Shoes
$125.95
3.9 out of 5 stars
100+ Amazon customer reviews
Finding a shoe that's durable enough for trail walking but not full-on hiking boot can be tough. Fortunately, these Keen waterproof hiking shoes fit the bill. They feature a breathable mesh and sturdy back collar to keep your ankles stable as you walk or run up a mountain. Plus, the low-density EVA midsole provides arch support while the durable shank offers comfort through tough terrain.
As one Amazon reviewer puts it: "They are lightweight yet sturdy. They fit snug but aren't tight. I have what I consider a standard foot, with a bit of a wider toe box so I prefer shoes with a wide toe box."
Best for Plus-Size: New Balance WW411v2 Sneakers
$67.95
4 out of 5 stars
300+ Zappos customer reviews
If you are walking to lose weight and have some pounds to shed, you need a well-supported shoe to help with balancing weight in your shoes to relieve pressure on the arches and heels. As an approved shoe for people with diabetes, New Balance's WW411v2 Walking Shoe has a removable foam insole and cushioning in the arches to absorb heavy impact. It also offers a deep toe box and wide forefoot width to accommodate people with a variety of foot issues.
One Zappos reviewer says, "My podiatrist told me I need to wear a diabetic shoe. These are great! No one will even know I had to switch from my regular New Balances, and my feet are much happier."
Best for Plantar Fasciitis: Orthofeet Comfort Plantar Fasciitis Shoes
$119.95
4.2 out of 5 stars
700+ Amazon customer reviews
The Orthofeet Coral's roomy toe box and non-binding upper take the squeeze off swollen joints and toes, and the shoe's soft, foam-padded interior keeps your feet super comfy and supported. Their ergonomic design also helps ease pain at the heel, if you suffer from plantar fasciitis pain. "These are so comfortable, my feet feel like they are walking on clouds," writes a pleased Amazon reviewer. "I have OA [osteoarthritis] pretty badly in my knees and I can already tell these shoes will be better for my pain and balance."
Best Everyday Sneakers: Allbirds Wool Runners
$95
4.5 out of 5 stars
400+ Allbirds customer reviews
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We tried Allbirds ourselves and think these wool runners are one of the most comfortable shoes on earth. These walking shoes are made with super-soft Merino wool and a foam cushioning that gives you freedom of movement and reduces your carbon footprint. The lightweight insoles are also removable, so you can insert your own orthotics if you'd like. Bonus: You don't need to wear socks because they're comfortably snug and keep your feet warm.
Best Ballet Flats: Vionic Minna Flats
$119.95
4 out of 5 stars
200+ Zappos customer reviews
Prevention readers are a little obsessed with Vionic shoes, and that's because the brand designs stylish footwear that helps ward off pain. These polished slip-on Minna flats come in five different styles and boast the Orthaheel technology that supports your foot's natural alignment, so they're a smart investment for work.
"These shoes are great for those in-between days when you don't want to wear athletic sneakers but want something more flexible and comfortable than ballet flats," writes one very happy Allbirds customer.
Best Slip-ons: Dr. Scholl's Madison Sneakers
$49.95
4.5 out of 5 stars
200+ Nordstrom customer reviews
For a stylish sneaker that prevents foot pain while on your feet at work or traveling, try the Madison from Dr. Scholl's. This slip-on comes in three neutral tones so you can pair them with just about any outfit you want, and customers swear by them for all-day comfort. "Very comfortable. Bought a pair a year ago and was sure to get the same thing again. They're very bouncy to walk around in and slip on easily. Plus, they're nice on the back of the heel—no blisters here! I already purchased an extra pair as a backup, and I hope they never stop making these shoes!," a happy Nordstrom reviewer writes.
Best Flip Flops: OluKai U'i Sandals
$89.95
4 out of 5 stars
100+ Zappos customer reviews
Yes, you can wear flip flops and still protect your feet from injury. This OluKai U'i pair is perfect for a day hanging at the beach or hosting a fun barbecue. The curved footbed offers maximum support for your arches, and the contoured plate fits perfectly with the natural alignment of your feet. Moreover, the durable rubber outsole makes it easy to trek through any terrain, whether it's sand or pavement.
One Zappos reviewer says, "They are so well designed that they give you as much support as a tennis shoe but it's a sandal." Another reviewer says: "Normally, I can't go longer than a couple of hours in flip flops, and my feet are usually aching, but these felt good on my feet all day."
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