Are running shoes good for walking?

Yes, some running shoes can be used for walking , but it’s important to understand some key differences between running and walking shoes before choosing a pair. Running shoes are typically lighter and more breathable than walking shoes, which may be heavier and bulkier to help maintain stability. Walking shoes are generally more flexible at the forefoot, allowing walkers to have a better range of motion while pushing off with their toes. However, you’ll get more cushioning in the heel and forefoot with running shoes. For fitness walkers or those with previous foot issues, walking shoes may be a better choice thanks to their support and stability. If you do a combination of running and walking or you frequently walk in hot weather, go with a pair of running shoes instead. For advice on selecting the best shoes for your foot type, gait, and walking habits, visit a running specialty store to get a proper fitting.

How long do walking shoes last?

In general, you should replace your walking shoes after 300 to 400 miles or six to eight months, whichever comes first, according to Saylee Tulpule, DPM, a podiatrist in Washington, D.C., and Maryland. Even if walking shoes appear to be in good condition, they should be replaced frequently. “The function of a proper walking or running shoe is to provide stability and cushion, so it’s important to assess the shelf life of a shoe in order to prevent injury,” says Dr. Tulpule.

How much does a quality pair of walking shoes for men cost?

You can expect to pay anywhere from $50-$200 for a quality pair of walking shoes. Cheaper options may not have enough support and cushioning to keep you feeling light on your feet all day long. And more expensive pairs may have fashion-forward features or additional technology that doesn't actually enhance the shoes' comfort. The cheapest pair of shoes on our list, Sketchers' Go Walk Max, usually costs around $50. Our top recommendation, New Balance's 990v5 Shoe, was $200 when we published this list.

The 9 Best Walking Shoes for Men for Ultimate Comfort

Whether you walk for exercise or spend a lot of time on your feet, you need a sneaker with great all-around cushioning and support to keep your feet from feeling fatigued and sore. The best walking shoes for men will also help keep you from developing uncomfortable foot issues, like bunions and blisters.

When looking for a walking shoe, Dr. Miguel Cunha, podiatrist and founder of Gotham Footcare in New York City recommends trying them on, because an accurate fit is essential. After trying them on, you should walk around and pay attention to how the sneakers feel on your feet: Are they firm or bouncy? Is there enough cushion and support? Do your feet, ankles, and knees feel stable? Will the shoes require a break-in period?

To find the best options on the market, we researched dozens of top-selling men's walking shoes from popular brands and evaluated them for material, comfort, breathability, and price. We also put several products through Verywell Fit's in-depth testing process in The Verywell Testing Lab, evaluating for comfort, responsiveness, stability, blister protection, and overall value.

Each of the walking shoes chosen in this article was determined to be the best of these factors. A running coach from our Review Board also reviewed this article to ensure accuracy surrounding walking versus running shoes and supporting different foot types and conditions.

Our Top Picks

Best Overall:

New Balance 990v5 Running Shoe for Men at Amazon

Jump to Review

Best Budget:

ASICS Men's Gel-Venture Trail Running Shoes at Amazon

Jump to Review

Best for Flat Feet:

Brooks Addiction Walker 2 Shoe at Amazon

Jump to Review

Best Lightweight:

Skechers Performance Go Walk Max Slip on Walking Shoe at Amazon

Jump to Review

Best for Hiking:

Merrell Men’s Moab 2 Vent Hiking Shoe at Amazon

Jump to Review

Best for Work:

Rockport World Tour Classic at Amazon

Jump to Review

Best for Narrow Feet:

New Balance MW577 Walking Shoe at Amazon

Jump to Review

Best for Wide Feet:

New Balance 608 V5 Cross Trainer at Amazon

Jump to Review

Best for Plantar Fasciitis:

Orthofeet Proven Plantar Fasciitis at Amazon

Jump to Review

In This Article

Our Picks
How We Selected and Tested
What to Look For
FAQ
Why Trust Verywell Fit

4.9

Zappos

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Our Ratings

Fit

5/5
Comfort

5/5
Stability

4/5
Value

3.5/5

Pros

Excellent cushion
Lightweight
Comes in various widths

Cons

Expensive

We chose this shoe as our top pick because it has the perfect blend of firmness and high-energizing cushioning, so your feet will be sufficiently supported while walking. The lightweight, breathable upper helps keep your feet cool and dry. With a sleek, updated take on New Balance’s classic silhouette, the 990 version is an attractive shoe that goes well with athletic or casual styles.

When we tested the best New Balance shoes, this sneaker earned our best men's overall spot for its soft yet responsive cushioning, reliable durability, and all-day comfort. We took long, comfortable walks without worrying about achy feet, painful blisters, or uncomfortable chafing. And we found that the padded tongue and collar added to the shoe's already stable design. We also love how it's stylish enough for casual, daily wear.

The shoe is available in men's sizes 7 through 16 and comes in a range of widths, from extra-narrow to extra-extra-wide, so it’s easy to find a custom, comfortable pair you’ll never want to take off.

Price at time of publication: $200

^{Key Specs:
Materials: Suede and mesh upper, leather sole | Cushioning: Foam and polyurethane midsole | Closure: Lace-up}

Amazon

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Pros

GEL cushioned heels for shock absorption
Helps prevent plantar fasciitis pain
Breathable fabric

Cons

Laces are flimsy

Asics shoes are extremely popular among runners, but their reasonably-priced GEL-Venture running shoe is a solid choice if you’re looking for a comfortable and supportive shoe for fitness walking, travel, or all-day wear.

These sneakers feature Asics’ well-known GEL cushioning in the heels, which enhances comfort, improves shock absorption, and helps prevent pain from plantar fasciitis. With a mesh fabric upper, we like that these shoes are also very breathable, so you don’t have to worry about your feet overheating. They come in a variety of colors and in men's sizes 7 through 15.

Price at time of publication: $55

^{Key Specs:
Materials: Rubber sole, synthetic leather upper | Cushioning: Foam and gel midsole | Closure: Lace-up}

4.8

Amazon

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Our Ratings

Fit

4/5
Value

5/5
Comfort

5/5

Pros

Flat-to-medium arch in the insole
Stylish full-grain leather upper
Cushioned to reduce the impact on joints

Cons

Not as comfortable as previous versions
May squeak when walking

If you have flat feet, you need some extra support and cushioning when you’re walking. The Brooks Addiction Walker features an extended progressive diagonal pollbar that provides excellent arch support and corrects any overpronation, which is common with flat feet.

When we tested this shoe, we appreciated the solid support and comfortable cushioning. This pair has a lot of padding that helps with smooth heel-to-to transitions and adds a springy, supportive responsiveness. We also love that the true-to-size sneakers come in a few different widths, allowing you to slip in orthotics or insoles for flat feet if needed.

We like that it comes with a cushy midsole, you get a soft yet stable feel that offers a cushioned step and excellent energy return. With a supple leather upper, the Brooks Addiction Walker is stylish but also durable, comfortable, and perfect for anyone with flat feet who walks a lot or spends hours standing.

Price at time of publication: $130

^{Key Specs:
Materials: Synthetic sole, leather upper | Cushioning: Foot molding foam | Closure: Lace-up}

Verywell Fit / Courtesy of Tamara Staples

Amazon

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Pros

Breathable fabric lining
Machine-washable
Rear pull-tab for easy on/off

Cons

Runs small

Despite their lightweight feel, these shoes from Skechers offer the maximum comfort and performance you’d expect from a heavier shoe. The shoe’s GOwalk Max midsole and outsole provide high-level cushioning and support, while the extra padded heel allows for a comfortable, glove-like fit.

Flexible, responsive, and durable, we think these shoes are ideal for long walks or all-day wear and are also a versatile choice to slip into your suitcase. The shoes come in black, charcoal, or navy and gray colors in men's sizes 7 through 15.

Price at time of publication: $50

^{Key Specs:
Materials: Air-mesh upper, rubber outsole | Cushioning: Lightweight foam padding | Closure: Slip on}

4.8

Amazon

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Our Ratings

Fit

4.5/5
Comfort

4.5/5
Value

5/5
Stability/Support

4.5/5

Pros

Excellent shock absorption
Odor-resistant
Offers traction on dry and wet terrain

Cons

Doesn't come in multiple widths

Every step you take on the hiking trail will feel supported, smooth, and stable while wearing these Merrell Moab 2 Vent hiking shoes. Made for off-road treks, each shoe features a contoured foam footbed and molded heel counter for stability and shock absorption.

When we reviewed these shoes, we were impressed with their out-of-box comfort, lightweight and breathable design, reliable durability, and rather budget-friendly price. We appreciated that the lining is treated with odor-fighting technology to keep feet feeling fresh longer, while the lightweight, mesh upper ensures breathability.

We found that this hiking shoe offers excellent traction and grip on both wet and dry surfaces, thanks to the outsole which features 5-millimeter lug treads. And it comes in a range of earth tones and in men's sizes 8 through 14.

Price at time of publication: $109

^{Key Specs:
Materials: Suede leather, mesh upper | Cushioning: Foam and air cushioning | Closure: Lace-up}

Amazon

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Pros

Durable rubber outsole
Cushioned collar prevents irritation and blisters
Steel reinforced arches for extra support

Cons

Takes time to break them in

This attractive walking shoe delivers the out-of-the-box fit and all-day comfort that you expect from Rockport. A cushioned EVA footbed will mold to the shape of your foot for a custom fit, while a padded tongue helps to prevent irritation and blisters. With a wide, stable base and a resilient rubber outsole, we like that this shoe gets plenty of traction and stability.

We appreciate the premium leather upper (full-grain or nubuck) and lace-up ties that give this well-constructed shoe a classy look that can be dressed up or down, perfect for your commute and workday. It comes in a range of colors and in men's sizes 6 through 17.

Price at time of publication: $115

^{Key Specs:
Materials: Synthetic sole, leather upper | Cushioning: EVA foam footbed | Closure: Lace-up}

Amazon

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Pros

Cushioned footbed to prevent foot fatigue
Rubber outsole for traction
Reflective detailing for visibility

Cons

May overheat feet in warmer weather

The leather New Balance 577 walking shoe is an excellent, reasonably-priced choice for men who need a supportive, comfy shoe for all-day wear. The cushioned, walking-specific footbed is made for enhanced comfort and impact protection. Equipped with a sturdy, rubber sole, we think the 577 walking shoe is extremely durable, regardless of what type of surfaces you’re walking on.

One con we noticed is that, while the leather outer layer is stylish, it can make your feet hot during warmer weather. On the other hand, these shoes offer more protection than lightweight shoes in colder months. They’re available in men's sizes 7 through 15 and offer narrow widths, so they’re ideal for people who find some walking shoes to be too wide.

Price at time of publication: $85

^{Key Specs:
Materials: Rubber sole, leather upper| Cushioning: EVA foam | Closure: Lace-up}

4.7

Walmart

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Our Ratings

Fit

5/5
Comfort

4.5/5
Stability

4.5/5
Value

4.7/5

Pros

Breathable, odor-resistant lining
Internal shank for added support
Extra wide widths

Cons

May be too warm for hot weather

New Balance is a category leader in walking shoes and with good reason. With several different width options, their 608 walking shoe is a good option for anyone who needs some extra room for wide feet or orthotics. The shoe’s midsole will make you feel as if you’re bouncing with each step, giving you more energy to keep walking.

During testing, we found this pair to be comfortable, durable, and supportive, without being too bulky or stiff. The midsole is soft and springy, offering great energy return and shock absorption. But while the high-grade leather upper is extremely durable, we did find it to be less breathable than mesh uppers, making this a less ideal option for warm or hot weather wear.

Like many New Balance shoes, this pick is sleek and stylish. We like that they can serve double-duty for fitness or casual wear. This pick comes in a variety of styles and in men's sizes 6.5 to 18.

Price at time of publication: $65

^{Key Specs:
Materials: Leather and mesh upper, rubber outsole | Cushioning: EVA foam padding | Closure: Lace-up}

Amazon

View On Amazon View On Orthofeet.com View On Orthofeet.com

Pros

Extra-wide toe box
Easy to use tie-less lacing system
Orthotic insoles with anatomical arch support

Cons

Runs small

With plenty of room and depth, this pair from Orthofeet has the support and stability to keep you feeling comfortable on your feet. An extra-wide toe box provides space, while a seam-free inner lining helps prevent blisters even after hours of walking. We also appreciate that these shoes come in three different widths, so you can find the perfect fit that eliminates any unwanted pressure.

This pair is pricier than others, with lots of cushioning and the ability to replace the existing insoles with your own custom ones, we think these shoes will become a staple in your everyday rotation. These Orthofeet shoes are available in men's sizes 7 to 14 with medium, wide, and extra-wide width options.

Price at time of publication: $140

^{Key Specs:
Materials: Mesh and synthetic upper | Cushioning: Multi-layer orthopedic foam insoles | Closure: Hook-and-loop}

How We Selected and Tested the Best Walking Shoes for Men

After examining dozens of shoes from popular and trusted retailers, we selected the best walking shoes for men based on insight from a group of experts. We asked podiatrists Miguel Cunha and Saylee Tulpule, DPM, which features set the best walking shoes apart from the rest.

Then, we considered fit, material, and durability. We also considered support, including arch support and flex point, to determine which shoes provided the most stability. Finally, we looked at price, style, and weight before deciding which shoes made the cut. After selecting a list of walking shoes, we put several picks to the test in The Verywell Testing Lab.

We spent over 55 hours in the Lab wear-testing several pairs of walking shoes and evaluating each one for fit, cushioning, comfort, responsiveness, stability, blister protection, and overall value. After assessing the shoes during our test, we used our results to determine which products to include in this list of recommendations. As new styles come out, our team will continue to test and update this guide.

What to Look for in Walking Shoes for Men

The 7 key components of walking shoes.

Verywell Fit / Michelle Parente

Fit

“When buying shoes, you should try them on at the end of the day to ensure a more accurate fit,” says Dr. Miguel Cunha, podiatrist and founder of Gotham Footcare in New York City. He explains that your body is in equilibrium at the beginning of the day, and therefore, fluid has not been pulled down by gravity—causing your feet to swell. Finding the right fit at the end of the day will ensure comfort no matter how long you’re on your feet.

Flex Point

“The flex point of a walking shoe should be the point at which it bends while walking,” explains Cunha. He says that for optimal comfort, the flex point of the shoe should match the bending point of your foot, and when it doesn’t align with your foot, it can lead to arch pain or plantar fasciitis.

To check the flex point of your shoe, hold it by the heel and press the toe of the shoe onto the ground. The point where the shoe bends and creases is the flex point.

Material

It’s advisable to find a shoe that offers as much protection and durability as possible without sacrificing comfort or flexibility. “Look for a shoe designed with a smooth, solid leather upper that is not only highly durable, but also flexible and comfortable,” says Cunha. He also explains that a breathable shoe is optimal, especially if you plan on standing or walking for a prolonged period of time. “Some shoes have antimicrobial insoles to help keep sweaty odors under control and keep one’s feet feeling fresh.”

Arch Support

Cunha recommends finding shoes with an arch incorporated into its design to provide support, shock absorption, and maximum comfort. “A thin and flat sole that provides no arch support or shock absorption can lead to heel pain, in particular plantar fasciitis,” says Cunha, adding that this can eventually lead to back and knee pain. If you have flat feet, you can also use an insole for flat feet, which will provide more comfort and support.

Frequently Asked Questions

Are running shoes good for walking?

Yes, some running shoes can be used for walking, but it’s important to understand some key differences between running and walking shoes before choosing a pair. Running shoes are typically lighter and more breathable than walking shoes, which may be heavier and bulkier to help maintain stability. Walking shoes are generally more flexible at the forefoot, allowing walkers to have a better range of motion while pushing off with their toes. However, you’ll get more cushioning in the heel and forefoot with running shoes.
For fitness walkers or those with previous foot issues, walking shoes may be a better choice thanks to their support and stability. If you do a combination of running and walking or you frequently walk in hot weather, go with a pair of running shoes instead. For advice on selecting the best shoes for your foot type, gait, and walking habits, visit a running specialty store to get a proper fitting.
How long do walking shoes last?

In general, you should replace your walking shoes after 300 to 400 miles or six to eight months, whichever comes first, according to Saylee Tulpule, DPM, a podiatrist in Washington, D.C., and Maryland. Even if walking shoes appear to be in good condition, they should be replaced frequently. “The function of a proper walking or running shoe is to provide stability and cushion, so it’s important to assess the shelf life of a shoe in order to prevent injury,” says Dr. Tulpule.
How much does a quality pair of walking shoes for men cost?

You can expect to pay anywhere from $50-$200 for a quality pair of walking shoes. Cheaper options may not have enough support and cushioning to keep you feeling light on your feet all day long. And more expensive pairs may have fashion-forward features or additional technology that doesn't actually enhance the shoes' comfort. The cheapest pair of shoes on our list, Sketchers' Go Walk Max, usually costs around $50. Our top recommendation, New Balance's 990v5 Shoe, was $200 when we published this list.

Why Trust Verywell Fit

With over two decades of dance experience, Sarah Felbin loves diving into the latest wellness research. As a health and fitness writer, she's passionate about finding products that are a great value and make life easier.

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