Walking Shoes, Apparel, and Gear Walking for Weight Management Guide Walking for Weight Management Guide Prepare to Walk What to Wear Find the Right Shoes Determine Your Walking Speed How Long to Walk Make a Schedule Perfect Your Technique Eat Well Consider Intervals Avoid Common Mistakes Work Through Plateaus Track Your Walks Stay Motivated We Tested the Best Walking Shoes—These 10 Will Keep You Comfortable All Day Long We walked for more than 80 hours in popular shoes from Brooks, Rika, ASICS, and more to find a clear winner By Christine Luff, ACE-CPT Christine Luff, ACE-CPT LinkedIn Twitter Christine Many Luff is a personal trainer, fitness nutrition specialist, and Road Runners Club of America Certified Coach. Learn about our editorial process Updated on May 05, 2023 Reviewed Verywell Fit articles are reviewed by nutrition and exercise professionals. Reviewers confirm the content is thorough and accurate, reflecting the latest evidence-based research. Content is reviewed before publication and upon substantial updates. Learn more. by Michele Stanten, ACE-GFI Reviewed by Michele Stanten, ACE-GFI Michele Stanten is a walking coach, certified group fitness instructor, and running coach. She is the author of Walk Off Weight and The Walking Solution. Learn about our Review Board Fact checked Verywell Fit content is rigorously reviewed by a team of qualified and experienced fact checkers. Fact checkers review articles for factual accuracy, relevance, and timeliness. We rely on the most current and reputable sources, which are cited in the text and listed at the bottom of each article. Content is fact checked after it has been edited and before publication. Learn more. by Isabella Broggini, NASM-CPT Fact checked by Isabella Broggini, NASM-CPT Isabella Broggini is a health writer and editor, NASM-certified personal trainer, and fitness nutrition specialist. She is a commerce editor at Verywell. Learn about our editorial process Print We independently evaluate all recommended products and services. If you click on links we provide, we may receive compensation. Learn more. Verywell Fit / Tamara Staples Walking is a great form of exercise with many health benefits, but wearing the right shoes is key to staying comfortable and injury-free. Whether you walk for fitness or spend significant time on your feet, you need shoes with 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. Ami Sheth, DPM, FACFAS, a podiatrist in California, says you shouldn't feel any pinching or trouble moving your toes when first wearing walking shoes. 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 Verywell Fit's rigorous testing regimen and spent more than 80 hours wearing and walking in those shoes on pavement, trails, and the treadmill. To test the shoes, we went on a minimum of three different walks in each pair—a 3-mile easy walk, a 3-mile brisk-paced walk, and a 6-mile long walk. Another reason to trust us? A certified running coach from our Review Board reviewed the claims in this article for physiological accuracy and how to evaluate their different features. Our Top Picks Best Women's Overall: Rykä Devotion Plus 3 Walking Shoe at Amazon Jump to Review Best Men's Overall: Brooks Men's Glycerin 20 Running Shoe at Amazon Jump to Review Best Budget: Asics GEL-Venture 8 at Amazon Jump to Review Best for Wide Feet: New Balance Men's 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 Expand Our Picks How We Selected and Tested What to Look For FAQ Why Trust Verywell Fit Best Women's Overall Rykä Devotion Plus 3 Walking Shoe 4.9 Amazon View On Amazon View On Zappos View On Dick's Our Ratings Cushioning 4.5/5 Responsiveness 4.5/5 Fit 5/5 Value 4.5/5 Blister Protection 5/5 Pros Springy, responsive cushioning Wide toe box Excellent shock absorption Cons Not as stable or supportive Ryka's 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. We loved the comfortable fit and soft cushioning, which is one of the reasons we gave it our women’s best overall spot. During test walks, these sneakers provided great shock absorption and plush comfort from start to finish. We were also impressed by the roomy toe box, which prevented any irritation and contributed to the shoe’s perfect score for blister protection. While most walking and running sneakers have an outsole that bends at the ball of the foot, Ryka's Devotion Plus 3 bends in the middle, at the arch. This makes it ideal if you have bunions or arthritis in your big toe—but not as stable or supportive as others on our list. But for daily walks or trips with your dog around the neighborhood, we think this sneaker's springy, responsive cushioning can't be beat. The breathable upper makes this shoe a good choice for walking in warmer weather. Ventilation on the front and sides provided good air flow, keeping our feet dry and cool. The heel offered a snug fit and locked-in feel, and we didn’t notice any sliding or slipping out of the shoe while walking. Whether you get your steps in by walking outdoors or hopping onto a treadmill desk during breaks from work, this pair is our top pick for easy wearing. 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 Best Men's Overall Brooks Men's Glycerin 20 Running Shoe 4.9 Amazon View On Amazon View On Zappos View On Dick's Our Ratings Fit 4.5/5 Comfort 5/5 Stability 4.5/5 Value 4.6/5 Pros Wide, roomy toe box Suitable for walking or running Thick, plush cushioning Cons Expensive The extremely comfortable and versatile Brooks Glycerin GTS 20 shoes were a clear choice for our men’s top pick. When we tried them on, we immediately fell in love with how thick and soft the cushioned midsole felt. And we were impressed by the fit, which was snug in all the right places while offering plenty of room in the toe box. They're also available in wide sizes, in case you have wide feet or need more room for orthotics. The Glycerin GTS 20's responsive padding made our ankles and knees feel stable and supported for the entire testing period. Although they're designed for running, we also enjoyed wearing these sneakers while walking and doing cardio classes. The light, breathable upper is also fairly water-repellent: After getting caught in the rain, we were pleasantly surprised by how quickly these dried, without feeling soggy or weighed down. It’s a true, everyday walking or running shoe. A durable, grippy tread adds to the overall appeal for fitness walkers or anyone who needs a sturdy, comfortable sneaker for all-day wear. Just note that the Glycerin GTS 20 is more expensive than most other shoes on our list (although we strongly feel they're worth the investment). Price at time of publication: $160 Key specs:Weight: 10.1 ounces | Closure: Lace-up | Materials: Textile and synthetic upper; rubber outsole | Cushioning Type: DNA Loft Verywell Fit / Courtesy of Tamara Staples Best Budget Asics GEL-Venture 8 Running Shoes 4.5 Amazon View On Amazon View On Zappos View On Dick's 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 Laces may not be as 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 and for walks on pavement and smooth trails. We found that the shoe's GEL cushioning had excellent shock absorption, especially in the heel area, earning it a nearly perfect score for cushioning. 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 run small, so order a size up for the best fit. When testing, we were also impressed with the shoe’s durable, grippy outsole that provided good traction, even when walking during wet conditions. We like that it has enough protection and support for walks or hikes on moderate trails, making it a very versatile option at a budget-friendly price. This shoe is built to last, and the cushioning and shock absorption make it a nice choice for walking or all-day wear. Price at time of publication: $70 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 Best for Wide Feet New Balance Men's Fresh Foam 1080 V11 Running Shoe 4.5 Amazon View On Amazon View On Roadrunnersports.com Our Ratings Cushioning 5/5 Responsiveness 4/5 Fit 5/5 Value 4.5/5 Blister Protection 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 and just the right amount of cushioning and support for walking, earning them a perfect score for cushioning, upper comfort, and fit. The full-length Fresh Foam midsole offers ample cushioning without feeling heavy or bulky. We noticed the cloud-like feel immediately, and the shoe still felt very comfortable at the end of a long walk. The snug fit and smooth, breathable fabric helped reduce rubbing and moisture accumulation, which earned the shoe a high rating for blister protection. We 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. We love that this shoe offers plush comfort without feeling too heavy or bulky. It’s ideal for those who want good cushioning and a custom-like fit in a wide size. 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 The 15 Best Walking Socks of 2023, Tested and Reviewed Best Cushioned Hoka Bondi 7 Running Shoe 4.5 Amazon View On Amazon View On Zappos View On Dick's Our Ratings Cushioning 5/5 Responsiveness 4/5 Fit 4.5/5 Value 4.5/5 Blister Protection 4.5/5 Pros Very durable Good stability Lightweight Cons Runs large Expensive You can’t go wrong with the Hoka One One Bondi if you need maximum cushioning in a walking shoe. During testing, it provided plush comfort and stellar shock absorption, earning a perfect score 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. While testing, we found the Bondi had 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, adding to the shoe’s durability and stability. This also makes them safe to wear for flexibility and core-building exercises like standing on balance boards. The Bondi is not the most attractive option with a thick, wide sole, but we think its comfort and performance make up for the lack of style. We'd definitely recommend these shoes, especially to those looking for a well-cushioned walking shoe. As runners prone to plantar fasciitis, we appreciate the well-cushioned heel area and the shoe's overall support. We felt like our feet were well-protected, no matter how much we walked. Price at time of publication: $201 Key specs:Weight: 11 ounces | Closure: Lace-up | Materials: Synthetic upper, rubber outsole | Cushioning Type: EVA foam Verywell Fit / Courtesy of Tamara Staples Best for Plantar Fasciitis Vionic Tokyo Sneaker 4.4 Amazon View On Amazon View On Zappos View On Walmart 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 with ample cushioning in the heel area, like the Vionic Tokyo shoe. It performed well during treadmill and outdoor walks, offering good protection and earning a perfect score for upper comfort and fit. During testing, the firm but flexible insole offered additional support and stability from start to finish of walks. We found the heel counter effective at locking down the rear of the foot, helping prevent any slipping or movement. One of our testers prone to plantar fasciitis found that the shoe’s cushioning, especially in the heel area, and overall support offered great protection. We also love how breathable these shoes feel, keeping our feet dry and comfortable. With lightweight mesh throughout the shoe, the Tokyo was one of the most breathable shoes we tested, boosting its blister protection rating. We like that even the shoe’s tongue is mesh and lightweight, helping to keep feet cool and comfortable. We recommend this shoe 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 The 12 Best Walking Shoes for Flat Feet of 2023, Tested and Reviewed Best for Flat Feet Brooks Addiction Walker 2 Shoe 4.8 Amazon View On Amazon View On Zappos View On Brooksrunning.com Our Ratings Cushioning 5/5 Responsiveness 4.5/5 Fit 4/5 Value 5/5 Blister Protection 5/5 Pros Excellent support Good traction Available in range of widths Cons Heavy Not as breathable Brooks' Addiction Walker 2 is our top pick for walkers with flat feet, offering excellent support and cushioning. The fit was near perfect: It hugged our feet in all the right places without pinching or squeezing anywhere. The shoes’ padding felt extremely comfortable during test walks, providing good energy return and putting a spring in our step. We also found that this pair excelled in lateral support and stability, thanks to the progressive diagonal rollbar that provides maximum support and helps correct overpronation. And we were impressed by the shoe’s slip-resistant outsole, which provided good traction on wet and dry surfaces. We love that it has a roomy fit and comes in a few different widths, so it can accommodate orthotics or insoles for flat feet if needed. The shoe's leather upper is soft and comfortable, but it isn't as breathable, and the style may not work for those who prefer a sporty look. Weighing 15 ounces, they're also heavier than some of our other top picks, mostly due to their superior stability features. Still, if you need additional support for flat feet or low arches, we think these are well-suited for walking or standing all day long. 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 Best for Hiking Keen Targhee Vent Hiking Shoes 4.3 Amazon View On Amazon View On REI Our Ratings Cushioning 4.5/5 Responsiveness 4/5 Fit 4/5 Value 4/5 Blister Protection 4.5/5 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 has excellent stability and traction, scoring high for cushioning and upper comfort during our test. The leather-and-mesh upper offers the right balance of protection and breathability, and we appreciated that the water-resistant design was convenient for traversing in wet conditions. We also like the shoe’s low-profile design for easy mobility and flexibility. During our test, the shoe’s all-terrain rubber outsoles provided excellent grip and added to the shoe’s overall stability. Thanks to the vented panels and smooth interior, it also boasts good blister protection.The shoe 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. Keen makes excellent products, and this shoe stays true to that tradition. It has nice lateral support, comfort, and confidence-inspiring stability. 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 Expert Tested: The 10 Best Cushioned Shoes for Walking Best Lightweight Allbirds Tree Runners 4.6 Allbirds View On Dick's View On Allbirds.com View On Nordstrom Our Ratings Cushioning 4.5/5 Responsiveness 4.5/5 Fit 4/5 Value 4.5/5 Blister Protection 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. We were also impressed with the sleek, minimalist design that still feels supportive. The upper is very breathable with minimal seams, helping to earn the shoe a high blister protection rating. We 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 also be machine-washed. 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 Best for High Arches Dansko Pace Walking Shoes 4.3 Amazon View On Amazon View On Zappos View On Dillards.com Our Ratings Cushioning 4.5/5 Responsiveness 4.5/5 Fit 4/5 Value 4.5/5 Blister Protection 3.5/5 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 for upper comfort. One of our testers with high arches liked that the shoe provided cushioning and support where she needed it 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 also 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 Compare Overall Rating Cushioning Responsiveness Fit Value Blister Protection Best Women's Overall: Rykä Devotion Plus 3 Walking Shoe Amazon 4.9 4.5 4.5 5 4.5 5 Best Men's Overall: Brooks Men's Glycerin 20 Running Shoe Amazon 4.9 4.5 4.6 Best Budget: Asics GEL-Venture 8 Amazon 4.5 4 4 4.5 4.5 Best for Wide Feet: New Balance Men's Fresh Foam 1080 V11 Amazon 4.5 5 4 5 4.5 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 4.5 Best for Flat Feet: Brooks Addiction Walker 2 Shoe Amazon 4.8 5 4.5 4 5 5 Best for Hiking: Keen Targhee Vent Hiking Shoes Amazon 4.3 4.5 4 4 4 4.5 Best Lightweight: Allbirds Tree Runners Dick's 4.6 4.5 4.5 4 4.5 5 Best for High Arches: Dansko Pace Walking Shoes Amazon 4.3 4.5 4.5 4 4.5 3.5 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 each pair of sneakers by walking in them outside on roads, trails, and on the treadmill. We walked at least 15 miles in each shoe and tested them during short and long walks—totaling over 80 hours of testing. We did at least one walk on the treadmill in each shoe to evaluate performance on a softer surface. To test the hiking shoe, we wore it for a walk on a moderate trail. We also wore the shoes for casual wear to assess overall comfort and support. To evaluate the shoes' traction and weather protection, we walked 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 (would not recommend) to 5 (highly recommend). 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. We also had our on-site podiatrist, Diana Levin Valencia, DPM, evaluate the construction of each shoe. In addition to testing, we spoke to experts to discuss what to look for in a walking shoe. The experts we spoke to included: Ami Sheth, DPM, FACFAS, a podiatrist in California Emmanuel Fuzaylov, DPM, a podiatrist in New York City Mark Mendeszoon, DPM, FACFAS, a podiatrist based in Ohio 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,” Fuzaylov 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,” 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,” 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,” Mendeszoon 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 do you 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 much do high-quality walking shoes cost? Quality walking shoes can cost between $70 and $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, Ryka's Devotion Plus 3 and Brooks' Glycerin GTS 20, were $100 and $160 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. We Tested the 16 Best Running Shoes for Bad Knees 3 Sources Verywell Fit uses only high-quality sources, including peer-reviewed studies, to support the facts within our articles. Read our editorial process to learn more about how we fact-check and keep our content accurate, reliable, and trustworthy. Sun X, Lam WK, Zhang X, Wang J, Fu W. Systematic review of the role of footwear constructions in running biomechanics: Implications for running-related injury and performance. J Sports Sci Med. 2020;19(1):20-37. Nagano H, Begg RK. Shoe-insole technology for injury prevention in walking. Sensors (Basel). 2018;18(5):1468. doi:10.3390/s18051468 American Academy of Podiatric Sports Medicine. How do I know when it is time to replace my athletic shoes? See Our Editorial Process Meet Our Review Board Share Feedback Was this page helpful? Thanks for your feedback! What is your feedback? Other Helpful Report an Error Submit