Please, a Moment for the Best Walking Sneakers Of All Time

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Walking sneakers have become a staple. There's no way around it. We know they haven't always been the coolest shoe around, but some of the most iconic brands have been reinventing that. And right now, it's actually cool to look like, dress as, and, hell, even be a high school geography teacher. Cargos got good. Orthotics are hot. Never letting your dress shoes see your 9-5 is the vibe. Shoes designed for walking put comfort and performance first. Their disregard for style has made them the very pinnacle of it.

So how do you choose from the vast market of walking shoes? Well, the two most important factors to consider are cushioning and traction. You want to select sneakers that are supportive and sturdy, so that you can keep on walking all day long. Choose from old school brands like New Balance and Reebok or opt for a contemporary pair from APL or Koio. Whatever you choose, we've got you covered.

Here, we've got 15 of the best ones. While, of course, fashion is subjective, these picks have been tried, tested, and meticulously pulled apart by the Esquire Sneaker Desk, which couldn't miss a flaw if it tried. So when we say best, we really mean it. It might be subjective but it's also correct. Your feet, back, and embodied sense of style know-how will thank you.

Bondi 7 Shoes

The Hoka Bondi 7 is a big, thick powerhouse. They feel slightly insane to wear the first time you put them on, given that they make you grow at least one inch and an additional personality. But then once you start actually walking in them, you see how that thick-ass foam keeps your feet from getting crampy and tired. The all black is a move too.

990v6

What to say about a 990v6 that hasn't already been said in every love song that's ever been sung? The American-made, dad-approved sneaker is a mainstay in this world of comfort shoes. While you can't go wrong with any 990, the v6 is especially nice for giving your stride a nice little forward motion. They'll last you a lifetime, as any true love should.

Air Max 97 Shoes

Nike's Air Max 97s have the signature Air technology along the entire underfoot, which makes the entire walking experience just more comfortable. They run a bit narrow, but that also comes with a slimmer-looking sneaker if you've had enough chunk.

Retro Runner Cloud Shoes

Koio's retro runner is the walking shoe you can wear with a suit as easily as you can with shorts without ever feeling clunky or out of place. The sneakers are nice, made with top-notch leather and suede by top-notch Italians. The sole is recycled (good for the earth) and flexible (good for your gait).

Air Max 270 Shoes

The Air Max 270 brings just the right amount of performance into a shoe that you don't need to do any sort of performing in. The thick air sole in the heel and the stretchy knit upper makes for a perfect shoe to wear when you're traveling or walking around all day. Swollen feet never felt so loved.

Response CL Shoes

Ooo, Adidas with the chunky sneaker! Adidas makes a ton of shoes that are good for running, but these thick Responses are especially good for slower paced forward movement.

TechLoom Zipline Shoes

Trying to find that ultra-modern silhouette? APL's TechLoom Zipline sneakers have soared in popularity for a reason. Aside from being incredibly sleek, the shoes have extra cushion that adds a pep to your step.

XT-6 Shoes

For most of forever, you only wore Salomon sneakers if you voluntarily and unironically went hiking. But now, you can be ironic as hell. The extremely outdoor sneakers are infiltrating the fashion sneaker market in a big way. Lugged soles, quick laces, and all.

Zoom Vomero 5 Shoes

The Zoom Vomero has all sorts of texture changes happening but in a tonal construction, it feels easy to wear while still feeling cool as hell. It's cool, it's comfortable. Can't beat it.

Gel-Nimbus 25 Shoes

Once you start wearing Asics, you never go back. The cushioning is unparalleled, and the effective shock absorption helps to prevent against injuries. Plus, the super soft knit upper has the right amount of ventilation to keep your feet cool as you move.

Classic Leather Legacy AZ Shoes

Reebok's Legacy sneaker is cushioned and thoughtfully designed. The original shape was born in the '70s but this one is done up with recycled fabrics and a slightly lugged gum outsole.

574 Shoes

NB's 574s are a great toe dip into the sea of functional vintage sneakers. They have that roomy fit and cushioned midsole but in a truly retro style. Plays well with jeans and other cool pants.

The RS02 Shoes

Rothy's made a whole brand based on shoes you can wear all day everyday without destroying your feet, and this low-top white sneaker is the goal, executed. They feel lightweight, the knit upper is flexible, and the padded collar is ideal for anyone who tends to get ankle blisters from any type of shoe.

Salvas Shoes

For a walking sneaker that doesn't force you to commit to the Walking Sneaker lifestyle, Cariuma's Salvas are a happy medium. They're comfy and supportive but still low-key and easy to wear everyday.

Trail Runners SWT Shoes

Allbirds brought its eye for sustainable materials to shoes that can withstand the weight of the great outdoors. The upper is made out of a ripstop fabric and the lug soles go heavy on traction.

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