Are Running Shoes Good for Walking?

The short answer is that yes, running shoes can be used for walking . However, it’s important to understand some key differences between running and walking shoes to decide if you want to wear running shoes for walking. Running shoes are usually lightweight to allow for quick movement, while walking shoes are typically heavier to help maintain stability. You’ll get more cushioning in the heel and forefoot with running shoes, which also means that they have less flexibility. Walking shoes generally have more flex at the forefoot, allowing walkers to push off with their toes and have a better range of motion. Running shoes are also usually more breathable than walking shoes since running makes your feet hotter. Whether you choose running shoes or walking shoes really depends on the type of walking you do. If you’re going to be doing a combination of running and walking or you walk a lot in hot weather, go with a pair of running shoes.

How Long Do Walking Shoes Last?

In general, walking shoes last about 350 to 500 miles before the support, cushioning, and shock absorption are worn out, leaving you susceptible to injury. For most people, that’s about six to eight months, if you wear them regularly. Even though the shoes may appear to be in good condition, they’re ready to be replaced by then.

How to Walk Without Creasing Your Shoes

Walking properly can help prevent your shoes from creasing. For example, walking up on your toes or on your heels can lead to creases in your shoes, so practice landing on the ball of your foot instead. Wearing shoes that are too loose may also lead to creasing. Make sure your shoes are tied so that your foot is snug and not sliding around. When selecting walking shoes, get the proper fit . “The width of the shoe should be wide enough that you can wiggle your toes without too much motion in the forefoot,” Dr. Mendeszoon says. When you’re not wearing your shoes, you can stuff them with socks to help retain their shape and avoid creasing.

How to Stop Shoes from Squeaking When Walking

Squeaky shoes when walking are often caused by wearing wet shoes, so it’s important to dry out your shoes when they get wet. First, remove the insoles or inserts and then let them air dry. To speed up the process, you can stuff them with balled-up newspaper to absorb the moisture. Don’t put wet shoes in the dryer or under a heater, as that can damage or warp the shoes. The squeaking may also be caused by friction between the soles and insoles. You can solve that issue by sprinkling baby or talcum powder underneath the inner sole. If the insoles aren’t removable, sprinkle the powder along the seams of the insoles. If your shoes squeak on certain types of floors that are slick, another trick is to rub the sole of the shoe with sandpaper. The bottoms of the shoes won’t be so smooth and polished, so they’ll be less likely to squeak.

How Much Do Quality Walking Shoes Cost?

Quality walking shoes can cost between $70-$160 or more. Pricier shoes will typically be more durable and are often made with features to help walkers with specific issues, like flat feet or plantar fasciitis. Budget-friendlier walking shoes are better suited for healthy walkers with no specific foot or gait issues. It may be worth spending a little more on a walking shoe for a pair that will last longer, especially if you plan to use the shoes in rough conditions. The cheapest walking shoe on our list was $70 when we published this list, while our top recommendations, the Ryka Devotion Plus 3 and the Brooks Glycerin GTS 19 , were $100 and $150 respectively.

The 10 Best Walking Shoes of 2023

best walking shoes test — Verywell Fit / Tamara Staples

Walking is a great form of exercise with lots of health benefits, but wearing the right shoes is key to staying comfortable and injury-free. Whether you walk for fitness or simply spend a significant amount of time on your feet, you need shoes that offer quality all-around cushioning and support to prevent fatigue and soreness.

A good walking shoe should fit well right away without having to break it in. “You shouldn't be feeling any pinching or trouble moving your toes,” Ami A. Sheth, DPM, FACFAS, a podiatrist in California, says. Shoe styles with a wide range of sizes, including half sizes and widths, will help you find the best fit for you.

When reviewing walking shoes, in addition to fit, we evaluated the level of support and cushioning a shoe provides, its breathability, blister protection, and the overall durability of the shoe. We also asked experts for recommendations and consulted the American Podiatric Medical Association’s list of shoes that received their Seal of Acceptance. Next, we put the top shoes through our testing regimen and spent more than 80 hours wearing and walking in those shoes on pavement, trails, and the treadmill.

Our Top Picks

Best Women's Overall:

Rykä Devotion Plus 3 Walking Shoe at Amazon

Jump to Review

Best Men's Overall:

Brooks Glycerin GTS 19 at Amazon

Jump to Review

Best Budget:

Asics GEL-Venture 8 at Amazon

Jump to Review

Best for Wide Feet:

New Balance Fresh Foam 1080 V11 at Amazon

Jump to Review

Best Cushioned:

Hoka Bondi 7 at Amazon

Jump to Review

Best for Plantar Fasciitis:

Vionic Tokyo Sneaker at Amazon

Jump to Review

Best for Flat Feet:

Brooks Addiction Walker 2 Shoe at Amazon

Jump to Review

Best for Hiking:

Keen Targhee Vent Hiking Shoes at Amazon

Jump to Review

Best Lightweight:

Allbirds Tree Runners at Dick's

Jump to Review

Best for High Arches:

Dansko Pace Walking Shoes 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

Amazon

Our Ratings

Cushioning

4.5/5
Responsiveness

4.5/5
Lateral Stability

4.5/5
Fit

5/5
Value

4.5/5

Pros

Lightweight and breathable
Wide toebox
Good shock absorption

Cons

Laces are not easy to change
Not warm enough for cold weather walking

The Ryka Devotion Plus 3 walking shoe stood out during our testing as an ideal option for fitness walkers or women who are on their feet for most of the day. Right out of the box, the shoe offered a comfortable fit and felt supportive, especially in the arch area, which is one of the reasons we gave it our women’s best overall spot.

During test walks, it provided good shock absorption and plush comfort from start to finish. Our tester was also impressed with the shoe’s roomy toe box, which prevented any irritation and contributed to the shoe’s perfect score of 5 out of 5 for blister protection.

Testing Notes: “These shoes are a comfortable option for walkers or anyone who spends hours at a time on their feet. They’re the perfect blend of cushioning and support, and the wide forefoot offers plenty of room for toes to spread, reducing the risk of any irritation.”

The upper is also very breathable, making the shoes a good choice for walking in warmer weather. Ventilation on both the front and sides of the shoe provided good air-flow, keeping our tester’s feet dry and cool. The rear of the foot offered a snug fit and locked-in feel, and our tester didn’t notice any sliding or slipping out of the shoe, so she gave the shoe a perfect score of 5 out of 5 for fit. Whether you get your steps in by walking outdoors or jumping onto a treadmill desk during breaks from work, these are the ideal shoes for you.

Price at time of publication: $100

^{Key specs:
Weight: 10 ounces | Closure: Lace-up | Materials: Rubber sole, synthetic and mesh upper | Cushioning Type: Molded EVA midsole and full-length RE-ZORB platform}

Verywell Fit / Courtesy of Tamara Staples

4.8

Amazon

Our Ratings

Cushioning

4.5/5
Responsiveness

4.5/5
Lateral Stability

4/5
Fit

5/5
Value

4.5/5

Pros

Excellent fit
Suitable for walking or running
Lightweight yet supportive

Cons

Some may not like that it’s not very deep
Expensive

The extremely comfortable and versatile Brooks Glycerin GTS shoes were a clear choice for our men’s top pick. Our tester noticed that these shoes felt comfortable right out of the box, with no break-in period needed. The flexible, comfortable upper and padded collar provide an exceptional fit, helping to earn the shoe a perfect score of 5 out of 5 in that category.

The shoes’ DNA Loft cushioning is suitable for walking or running and dynamically adapts to each step with a soft yet responsive feel, earning them a nearly perfect score of 4.5 out of 5 for responsiveness. During test walks, the shoe offered good shock absorption and felt supportive, but still lightweight. Our tester was also impressed with the shoe’s blister protection, noting that the shoe’s breathable mesh and wide toebox helped prevent irritation or rubbing during test walks.

Testing Notes: “I was very impressed with the overall performance of this shoe. It’s a true everyday walking or running shoe. The foam feels pillow-soft, yet is very responsive and springy.”

A durable, grippy tread adds to the overall appeal for fitness walkers or anyone who needs a sturdy, comfortable shoe for all-day wear.

Price at time of publication: $168

^{Key specs:
Weight: 10 ounces | Closure: Lace-up | Materials: Textile and synthetic upper; rubber outsole | Cushioning Type: DNA Loft}

Weight: 10 ounces | Closure: Lace-up | Materials: Textile and synthetic upper; rubber outsole | Cushioning Type: DNA Loft

Verywell Fit / Courtesy of Tamara Staples

4.5

Amazon

Our Ratings

Fit

4/5
Cushioning/Knee Protection

4.5/5
Comfort

4.5/5
Responsiveness

4/5
Stability

4/5

Pros

Lightweight and breathable
Excellent shock absorption
Good traction

Cons

Shoelaces may not be durable
Runs small

For a reasonably-priced shoe that’s comfortable and supportive for exercise or all-day wear, the GEL-Venture 8 running shoe is a solid choice. During testing, this shoe performed well for treadmill walks as well as on pavement and smooth trails. Our tester noted that the shoe’s GEL cushioning had excellent shock absorption, especially in the heel area, earning it a nearly perfect score of 4.5 out of 5 in that category.

The shoe also stood out in the category of blister protection, thanks to the breathable mesh and wider sizes for a roomy toe box. However, the sizes do run small, so be sure to order a size up for best fit.

Testing Notes: “For such an affordable shoe, I was really impressed with the quality of the materials and the durable shoe construction. This shoe is built to last and the cushioning and shock absorption make it a nice choice for walking or all-day wear.”

Our tester was also impressed with the shoe’s durable, grippy outsole that provided good traction, even when walking during wet conditions. We like that it even has enough protection and support for walks or hikes on moderate trails, making it a very versatile option at a budget-friendly price.

Price at time of publication: $73

^{Key specs:
Weight: 8.9 ounces | Closure: Lace-up | Materials: Synthetic and mesh upper, rubber sole | Cushioning Type: Foam insole, GEL cushioning system in heel}

4.5

Amazon

Our Ratings

Cushioning

5/5
Responsiveness

4/5
Lateral Stability

3/5
Fit

5/5
Value

4.5/5

Pros

Plush but lightweight cushioning
Good blister protection
Streamlined, low-profile

Cons

Lateral support is lacking
Not protective enough for extreme cold

If you have wide feet or a history of blisters and bunions, you’ll like the wide-size options for New Balance’s 1080v11 Fresh Foam shoes. They offer plenty of room for your toes to spread, as well as just the right amount of cushioning and support for walking, earning them a perfect score of 5 out of 5 for cushioning, upper comfort, and fit.

The full-length Fresh Foam midsole offers ample cushioning, without feeling heavy or bulky. Our tester noticed the cloud-like feel immediately and the shoe still felt very comfortable at the end of a long walk.

Testing Notes: “I love that this shoe offers plush comfort, without feeling too heavy or bulky. It’s ideal for those who want good cushioning, as well as a custom-like fit in a wide size.”

The snug fit and smooth, breathable fabric helped reduce rubbing and moisture accumulation, which earned the shoe a high rating of 5 out of 5 in blister protection. Our tester also really appreciated the shoe’s rear design, which hugs the back of the foot for a supportive fit and makes it easy to get the shoes on and off.

Price at time of publication: $150

^{Key specs:
Weight: 8.1 ounces | Materials: Knit and mesh upper, rubber outsole | Cushioning: Fresh Foam | Closure: Lace-up}

4.5

Amazon

Our Ratings

Cushioning

5/5
Responsiveness

4/5
Lateral Stability

4.5/5
Fit

4.5/5
Value

4.5/5

Pros

Very durable
Good stability
Lightweight

Cons

Runs large
Expensive

If you need maximum cushioning in a walking shoe, you can’t go wrong with the Hoka One One Bondi. During testing, it provided plush comfort and stellar shock absorption, earning a perfect score of 5 out of 5 for cushioning. In addition, the shoe scored high in the lateral stability and support category, making it a good choice for walkers who need a firm, stable shoe.

Testing Notes: “I’d definitely recommend these shoes, especially to those looking for a well-cushioned walking shoe. As someone who is prone to plantar fasciitis, I really appreciated the well-cushioned heel area and the overall support. I felt like my feet were well-protected, no matter how much I was walking.”

Our tester noted that the Bondi has a lightweight feel, which is difficult to pull off in a shoe with that much cushioning and stability. The sturdy rubber outsole offered reliable traction during test walks and added to the shoe’s durability and stability, making them also safe to wear for flexibility and core-building exercises like standing on balance boards. With a thick, wide sole, the Bondi is not the most attractive option, but we think its comfort and performance definitely make up for the lack of style.

Price at time of publication: $217

^{Key specs:
Weight: 11 ounces | Closure: Lace-up | Materials: Synthetic upper, rubber outsole | Cushioning Type: EVA foam}

Verywell Fit / Courtesy of Tamara Staples

4.4

Amazon

Our Ratings

Fit

5/5
Cushioning/Knee Protection

4/5
Comfort

5/5
Responsiveness

4/5
Stability

4/5

Pros

Very breathable
Good support and cushioning in heel area
Flexible yet stable

Cons

Runs small
Some prefer a cushier feel

If you have a history of plantar fasciitis, you can protect yourself by wearing a walking shoe that has ample cushioning in the heel area, like the Vionic Tokyo shoe. It performed well during treadmill and outdoor walks, offering good protection and earning perfect scores of 5 out of 5 in both upper comfort and fit.

During testing, the firm but flexible insole offered additional support and stability, from start to finish of walks. Our tester found the heel counter to be effective at locking down the rear of the foot, helping to prevent any slipping or movement.

Testing Notes: “I’ve been prone to plantar fasciitis and the shoe’s cushioning, especially in the heel area, and overall support offer great protection. I also love how breathable these shoes felt, keeping my feet dry and comfortable.”

With lightweight mesh throughout the shoe, the Tokyo was one of the most breathable ones that we tested, which boosted its blister protection rating. Our tester noted that even the shoe’s tongue was mesh and lightweight, helping to keep feet cool and comfortable. We like the Tokyo as a lightweight but supportive option for fitness walking, traveling, or all-day casual wear.

Price at time of publication: $130

^{Key specs:
Weight: 8 ounces | Closure: Lace-up | Materials: Synthetic upper, leather and rubber outsole | Cushioning Type: EVA foam}

4.8

Amazon

Our Ratings

Cushioning

5/5
Responsiveness

4.5/5
Lateral Stability

5/5
Fit

4/5
Value

5/5

Pros

Excellent support
Good traction
Available in range of widths

Cons

May run small
Limited colors

Offering excellent support and cushioning, the Brooks Addiction Walker 2 is a great pick for walkers with flat feet. During test walks, the shoes’ cushioning felt extremely comfortable, providing good energy return and responsiveness. The shoe also excelled in the area of lateral support and stability, thanks to the progressive diagonal rollbar that provides maximum support and helps to correct overpronation. It earned a perfect score of 5 out of 5 in lateral stability and support, one of the highest scores for that category. Our tester was also impressed with the shoe’s slip-resistant outsole, which provided good traction on wet and dry surfaces.

Testing Notes: “This shoe is very well-suited for walking or for those who are on their feet all day. The sole of the shoe is slip-resistant in wet and dry conditions, which is a nice feature not offered by all walking shoes.”

The shoe has a roomy fit and comes in a few different widths, so it can accommodate orthotics or insoles for flat feet if needed. Our tester points out that the leather is soft and comfortable, but the style may not work for those who prefer a sporty look. However, the Brooks Addiction Walker 2 is a comfortable, durable, and supportive option for fitness walking or all-day wear.

Price at time of publication: $130

^{Key specs:
Weight: 15 ounces | Closure: Lace-up | Materials: Leather upper, rubber sole | Cushioning Type: BioMoGo DNA midsole cushioning}

Verywell Fit / Courtesy of Tamara Staples

4.3

Amazon

Our Ratings

Cushioning

4.5/5
Responsiveness

4/5
Lateral Stability

4/5
Fit

4/5
Value

4/5

Pros

Good stability
Good traction
Very durable

Cons

Wide fit may not work for everyone
Heavy

We like this rugged shoe from KEEN for heading off the beaten path for trail walking or light to moderate hikes. It features excellent stability and traction, and it scored high in both cushioning and upper comfort in our testing, earning a nearly perfect score of 4.5 out of 5 for both categories. The leather-and-mesh upper offers the right balance of protection and breathability, and our tester noted that the water-resistant design was convenient for traversing in wet conditions.

Our tester also liked the shoe’s low-profile design for easy mobility and good flexibility. During testing, the shoe’s all-terrain rubber outsoles provided excellent grip and added to the shoe’s overall stability. What’s more, it boasts good blister protection, thanks to the vented panels and smooth interior.

Testing Notes: “Keen makes an excellent product and this shoe stays true to that tradition. It has nice lateral support, comfort, and confidence-inspiring stability.”

The shoe also features an internal shank and rubber toe cover that can shield your feet from trail hazards. All that protection adds some weight, so this shoe is the heaviest we tested and some might find it a bit too bulky for casual wear.

Price at time of publication: $155

^{Key specs:
Weight: 1 pound 2 ounces | Closure: Lace-up | Materials: Nubuck leather, rubber outsole | Cushioning Type: EVA foam}

4.6

Allbirds

Our Ratings

Cushioning

4.5/5
Responsiveness

4.5/5
Lateral Stability

4/5
Fit

4/5
Value

4.5/5

Pros

Very breathable
Cloud-like comfort
Made with sustainable materials

Cons

Not available in half sizes
Traction could be improved

For walking in warm weather, Allbirds Tree Runners are lightweight and extremely breathable, while still offering cushioned comfort. During test walks, the shoe felt flexible and bouncy with each step. Our tester was also impressed with the sleek, minimalist design that still manages to feel supportive.

The upper is very breathable with minimal seams, helping to earn the shoe a high blister protection rating of 5 out of 5. We also love that the shoe is made with sustainable, eco-friendly materials such as eucalyptus tree fiber, castor bean oil, and Brazilian sugarcane. The shoe’s insole is designed with thermoregulating Merino wool, which helps to wick away sweat and reduce odors. Even better, if they need a little refresh, these shoes can be machine-washed.

Testing Notes: “I would recommend these shoes to walkers or anyone who needs a comfortable shoe for spending hours at a time on their feet. They’re perfect if you want a lightweight and supportive walking shoe that’s not wide and bulky.”

The grip on the Tree Runners’ outsole wasn’t as good as some of the other shoes we tested, so it may not be suitable for trail walking or wet conditions. However, this shoe is a great option for fitness walking, travel, or all-day casual wear, especially in hot conditions when you want a lightweight, breathable shoe.

Price at time of publication: $105

^{Key specs:
Weight: Not listed | Closure: Lace-up | Materials: Eucalyptus pulp, Merino wool, natural rubber | Cushioning Type: SweetFoam}

4.3

Amazon

Our Ratings

Cushioning

4.5/5
Responsiveness

4.5/5
Lateral Stability

4.5/5
Fit

4/5
Value

4.5/5

Pros

Stylish enough for casual wear
Very responsive
Odor and stain protection

Cons

Toebox is a bit narrow
Could use a little more traction

If you have high arches, your feet will appreciate a flexible but supportive shoe for walking. These Dansko shoes deliver in those areas, with lightweight cushioning that provides stellar comfort, support, and shock absorption. During testing, they felt comfortable and flexible right out of the box, with no break-in period needed. The padded collar added to the overall comfort, hugging the back of the foot for a snug, locked-in feel, and earning the shoes a nearly perfect score of 4.5 out of 5 for upper comfort.

Testing Notes: “If you have high arches, these shoes are a great option for flexible, lightweight support and cushioning. As someone with high arches, my feet felt well-protected and comfortable, no matter how far I was walking.”

Our tester, who has high arches, noted that the shoe provides cushioning and support right where it’s needed most. Unfortunately, the shoe doesn’t come in wide sizes and the toebox might be a bit too narrow for some, which hurt the shoe’s blister protection rating. Overall, the shoe provided good flexibility and impact protection for walking and could definitely be used for other activities or all-day casual wear.

Price at time of publication: $140

^{Key specs:
Weight: Not listed | Closure: Lace-up | Materials: Synthetic upper, rubber sole Cushioning Type: EVA foam}

		Overall Rating	Cushioning	Responsiveness	Lateral Stability	Fit	Value
Best Women's Overall: Rykä Devotion Plus 3 Walking Shoe	Amazon	4.9	4.5	4.5	4.5	5	4.5
Best Men's Overall: Brooks Glycerin GTS 19	Amazon	4.8	4.5	4.5	4	5	4.5
Best Budget: Asics GEL-Venture 8	Amazon	4.5		4		4	4.5
Best for Wide Feet: New Balance Fresh Foam 1080 V11	Amazon	4.5	5	4	3	5	4.5
Best Cushioned: Hoka Bondi 7	Amazon	4.5	5	4	4.5	4.5	4.5
Best for Plantar Fasciitis: Vionic Tokyo Sneaker	Amazon	4.4		4		5	4.5
Best for Flat Feet: Brooks Addiction Walker 2 Shoe	Amazon	4.8	5	4.5	5	4	5
Best for Hiking: Keen Targhee Vent Hiking Shoes	Amazon	4.3	4.5	4	4	4	4
Best Lightweight: Allbirds Tree Runners	Dick's	4.6	4.5	4.5	4	4	4.5
Best for High Arches: Dansko Pace Walking Shoes	Amazon	4.3	4.5	4.5	4.5	4	4.5

How We Rated the Walking Shoes

4.8 to 5 stars: These are the best walking shoes we reviewed. We recommend them without reservation.

4.5 to 4.7 stars: These walking shoes are excellent—they might have minor flaws, but we still recommend them.

4.0 to 4.5 stars: We think these are great walking shoes, but others are better.

3.5 to 3.9 stars: These walking shoes are just average.

3.4 and below: We don't recommend walking shoes with this rating; you won't find any on our list.

How We Selected and Tested the Walking Shoes

To develop our best walking shoes list, we tested ten shoes by walking in them outside on roads, trails, and on the treadmill. Our testers walked at least 15 miles in each of the ten shoes, and tested them during both short and long walks—totaling over 80 hours of testing. They did at least one walk on the treadmill in each of the shoes to evaluate performance on a softer surface. To test the hiking shoe, our tester wore it for a walk on a moderate trail. Our testers also wore the shoes for casual wear to assess overall comfort and support. To evaluate the shoe’s traction and weather protection, the testers did a walk in wet weather conditions.

Each shoe was assessed for cushioning, fit, responsiveness, upper comfort, lateral stability and support, and blister protection, and we scored each attribute with a rating of 1 to 5. We also gave each shoe a value score, which considers the shoe attributes in relation to their price.

Finally, we hired a carpenter to cut our top shoes in half in the Verywell Testing Lab and had our on-site podiatrist, Dr. Diana Levin Valencia, DPM, evaluate the construction of each shoe.

Verywell Fit / Courtesy of Tamara Staples

What to Look for in Walking Shoes

Fit

A good pair of walking shoes should fit comfortably right out of the box—no break-in period required. Make sure there’s at least a half-inch of space between your longest toe and the end of the shoe.

It's best to go to a store and try on several options to get a feel for the right size and desired roominess. Everyone's feet are different, so brands that work for some walkers may not work best for you and vice versa. If you wear custom orthotics or inserts, look for a shoe that’s deep enough to accommodate them or has removable insoles.

Cushioning

A good pair of walking shoes will have gel, foam, or air midsole cushioning, which reduces impact and helps with shock absorption as you’re walking.

“Look for walking shoes with good shock absorption and minimal friction against the skin,” Emmanuel Fuzaylov, DPM, a podiatrist in New York City, says.

Support

Support is key when choosing a walking shoe, especially for those who have a history of foot pain and issues. “The shoe should have a good sturdy sole that is flexible at the toes only, not through the midfoot, and one that you cannot wring out like a dishrag,” Dr. Sheth says.

Make sure there’s enough support in the arch area, too. “Over time, flat shoes with no arch support may cause plantar fasciitis, heel spurs, and ankle pain,” Dr. Fuzaylov says.

Verywell Fit / Courtesy of Tamara Staples

Durability

Walking shoes should be durable enough for all-day wear, but more lightweight than most running shoes. Stick with shoes from quality brands that specialize in walking (and running) shoes and look for sturdy rubber outsoles. What should be avoided are court shoes and cross trainers, which are designed for more lateral movements.

Breathability

If you do a lot of fitness walking, especially in warm weather, you’ll want a shoe that won’t make you overheat. “It should be made of a breathable material such as mesh or a leather material,” Mark Mendeszoon, DPM, FACFAS, a podiatrist based in Ohio, says.

Frequently Asked Questions

Are Running Shoes Good for Walking?

The short answer is that yes, running shoes can be used for walking. However, it’s important to understand some key differences between running and walking shoes to decide if you want to wear running shoes for walking.
Running shoes are usually lightweight to allow for quick movement, while walking shoes are typically heavier to help maintain stability.
You’ll get more cushioning in the heel and forefoot with running shoes, which also means that they have less flexibility. Walking shoes generally have more flex at the forefoot, allowing walkers to push off with their toes and have a better range of motion. Running shoes are also usually more breathable than walking shoes since running makes your feet hotter.
Whether you choose running shoes or walking shoes really depends on the type of walking you do. If you’re going to be doing a combination of running and walking or you walk a lot in hot weather, go with a pair of running shoes.
How Long Do Walking Shoes Last?

In general, walking shoes last about 350 to 500 miles before the support, cushioning, and shock absorption are worn out, leaving you susceptible to injury. For most people, that’s about six to eight months, if you wear them regularly. Even though the shoes may appear to be in good condition, they’re ready to be replaced by then.
How to Walk Without Creasing Your Shoes

Walking properly can help prevent your shoes from creasing. For example, walking up on your toes or on your heels can lead to creases in your shoes, so practice landing on the ball of your foot instead.
Wearing shoes that are too loose may also lead to creasing. Make sure your shoes are tied so that your foot is snug and not sliding around. When selecting walking shoes, get the proper fit. “The width of the shoe should be wide enough that you can wiggle your toes without too much motion in the forefoot,” Dr. Mendeszoon says.
When you’re not wearing your shoes, you can stuff them with socks to help retain their shape and avoid creasing.
How to Stop Shoes from Squeaking When Walking

Squeaky shoes when walking are often caused by wearing wet shoes, so it’s important to dry out your shoes when they get wet. First, remove the insoles or inserts and then let them air dry. To speed up the process, you can stuff them with balled-up newspaper to absorb the moisture. Don’t put wet shoes in the dryer or under a heater, as that can damage or warp the shoes.
The squeaking may also be caused by friction between the soles and insoles. You can solve that issue by sprinkling baby or talcum powder underneath the inner sole. If the insoles aren’t removable, sprinkle the powder along the seams of the insoles.
If your shoes squeak on certain types of floors that are slick, another trick is to rub the sole of the shoe with sandpaper. The bottoms of the shoes won’t be so smooth and polished, so they’ll be less likely to squeak.
How Much Do Quality Walking Shoes Cost?

Quality walking shoes can cost between $70-$160 or more. Pricier shoes will typically be more durable and are often made with features to help walkers with specific issues, like flat feet or plantar fasciitis. Budget-friendlier walking shoes are better suited for healthy walkers with no specific foot or gait issues.
It may be worth spending a little more on a walking shoe for a pair that will last longer, especially if you plan to use the shoes in rough conditions. The cheapest walking shoe on our list was $70 when we published this list, while our top recommendations, the Ryka Devotion Plus 3 and the Brooks Glycerin GTS 19, were $100 and $150 respectively.

Verywell Fit / Courtesy of Tamara Staples

Why Trust Verywell Fit

As a running coach, marathon runner, and fitness writer, Christine Luff, ACE-CPT, has spent years researching and recommending running and walking shoes. To walk in comfort and reduce injury risk, she suggests getting properly fitted for walking shoes and replacing them regularly.

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