"I literally cannot open up my feed without seeing multiple videos with a wellness girly raving about walking and the benefits of walking daily. There’s no escaping it: Walking is THE workout of the moment. So, every day, I lace up my trusty Hokas, grab some Bala Bangles (IYKYK), and try to get my 10,000 steps in. And let me tell you, the wellness girlies were not wrong. There are so many benefits to walking daily, both mental and physical, and it’s become a non-negotiable part of my routine that I look forward to daily.
As walking every day became more integral to my day-to-day routine, I realized my shoe of choice needed an upgrade. Don’t get me wrong, my Hokas are great for walking and training in, but I’ve found that they’ve lost their grip, and my heels were hurting after an intense workout or extra long walk. I’ve never been more serious about being active before in my life than I am right now, and as a result of that, I truly have no idea when I’m supposed to replace my walking shoes; however, I did know it was time for an upgrade fast.
I figured I was not the only one who had this problem, so I turned to someone who could give me all the best tips and tricks on picking out a pair of new walking shoes: a board-certified podiatrist. Keep reading for the best advice you can get on picking out the perfect pair of walking shoes.
Dr. Megan Ishibashi, DPM, FACFAS
Dr. Ishibashi is a fellowship-trained surgeon who specializes in foot and ankle pathology with the Palo Alto Medical Foundation. She focuses on many aspects of foot care, but has a specialized focus on reconstruction, surgery, trauma, correction, and more. She also shares tips on comfortable shoe options and what it’s like to be a woman in medicine on her Tik Tok page here.
Why the Right Walking Shoes Matter
If you’re committed to hitting your 10,000 steps a day, the shoes you wear can make all the difference between a rewarding walk and one that leaves you with aches and pains. The best walking shoes aren’t just about style—they’re designed to support your feet, cushion every step, and help prevent injuries that can come from repetitive movement or improper support. Whether you’re strolling through your neighborhood, powering through a fitness walk, or running errands, choosing the right walking shoes is essential for comfort and long-term foot health. With so many options out there, it can feel overwhelming to find the perfect pair, but understanding what makes a good walking shoe will set you up for success and keep you moving comfortably, step after step.
READ: The 6-6-6 Walking Challenge Helps You Get Your Steps In And May Boost Calorie Burn
Do you need a special pair of walking shoes?
When going for walks every day or frequent long walks, you should indeed have a supportive shoe, like a lightweight running or training shoe, according to podiatrist Dr. Megan Ishibashi. Having a supportive pair of walking shoes that cater to your needs can prevent foot pain, lower the risk of injury, and ensure long-term foot health. You don’t necessarily need to have a designated pair of shoes just for walking, but a supportive pair of shoes that you also frequently run or work out in will do just fine while you’re getting those steps in.
What should you look for in walking shoes?
Obviously, you can walk in any shoes, but that doesn’t mean you should. If you’re going to be walking for long periods of time, you’ll need extra support. “The main features you want to look for are cushioning, support, and stability,” Dr. Ishibashi said. “Cushion minimizes impact and force, which essentially makes it comfortable for you so that you can be on your feet longer and get your steps in.”
Dr. Ishibashi recommends shoes that have a thicker foam or cushion sole. “We call them rocker bottoms, which makes it a little easier for you to push off in,” she said. Dr. Ishibashi also suggested trying out prospective options with The Shoe Test.
The Shoe Test: Grab your shoe and twist, squeeze, and bend it. If you can fold your shoe in half or collapse it in on itself, chances are, it’s not giving you the support you need to walk expansive distances, and you should pass on it.
While thick cushioning in the sole of the shoe is the best overall for your walking shoes, if you have concerns like high arches, low arches, or wide feet, you may need to pay attention to more special features before buying your walking shoes.
- Low arches: you still need that cushion in the sole, but one that’s more firm in the middle and not too soft.
- High arches: you’ll want something with high support that could mold to the shape of your foot. Dr. Ishibashi also recommends getting extra arch support from shoe inserts.
- Wide Feet: it’s best to have a shoe with a wider toe box.
How often should you replace your walking shoes?
According to Dr. Ishibashi, it really depends on how much you’re wearing your shoes to know when it’s time for a new pair. “If you’re getting in 10,000 steps every day, your shoe is going to last you about three to six months,” she said. If you’re not getting in that many steps a day, it’s important to pay attention to the physical characteristics of your shoes to know when to replace them. “That being said, if your tread is completely worn out, it’s time to replace your walking shoes,” said Dr. Ishibashi.
- If you’re walking 10,000 steps a day, your shoes will last around 3-6 months
- If your tread is gone, it’s time to replace your walking shoes
It’s also important to invest in a high-quality pair of shoes. Wearing a poor-quality shoe while walking frequently will have you replacing them sooner rather than later (which could honestly be more expensive in the long run). Investing in a quality pair of walking shoes ensures that your shoes last for several months to a year, depending on how much you’re using them.
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Our Favorite Expert-Approved Walking Shoes
If you’ve made it this far, you’re probably yelling at your screen, JUST GIVE ME THE SHOES! I hear you—and your aching feet. These are the 13 best walking shoes for every need.
Hoka’s Clifton 10s are one of the best because of their overall balanced comfort level. They’re supportive, not too heavy or light, and are great for everyday active wear in the gym or on runs and walks.
10+ colors available
Hoka’s Bondi 9 shoes have a significantly large and very plush sole, so if you’re looking for maximum support and softness, you’re going to want these walking shoes. They will literally mold to the shape of your foot the more you wear them, making them an all-around great walking shoe for anyone.
9 colors available
These shoes differ from running shoes in the way that they have a very thick supportive rocker sole, ideal for both walking and standing for long periods of time. This shoe is for more casual wear and doesn’t double as a running or training shoe.
2 colors available
Every fashion girly is raving about New Balance’s 530 sneakers. They’re cute, look great with jeans and athlesiure wear, and they’re comfortable. At just $99, you’re getting a great deal on a quality shoe that boasts style and supportive features such as an impact-absorbing sole and plush comfort.
7 colors available
New Balance’s Fresh Foam line is one of Dr. Ishibashi’s most recommended shoes. You can train, walk, or run in them while constantly staying supported with their solid cushion.
10+ colors available
If you like the qualities of Fresh Foams but want less of a running shoe look, try the Fresh Foam Arishi v4. They’ve got a similar look to New Balance’s other streetwear styles while still providing the comforting support a Fresh Foam does.
4 colors available
If you’re looking for a more fashionable option, try the New Balance’s 990v4. Introduced in 1984, this running shoe has been a staple of the brand for decades now. They’re comfy and cushiony but have a wider toe box and tough hard sole that works great for someone who has low arches or wide feet.
Walking or running long distances? You need this pair from Brooks. They’ve got support on the sides of the shoes that help keep you in your natural stride on even the longest of hot girl walks.
10+ colors available
Asics’ GT-2000 13 shoes have a strong shock absorption and firm sole, making it a great option for those with neutral or low arches. They’re lightweight and stable, yet still provide all the cushioning Dr. Ishibashi recommends.
10+ colors available
These running shoes from ASICS were made to stretch and move along with you as your take them along for the ride. They’re stable, breathable, and, of course, have a thick sole meant to absorb any impact.
10+ colors available
On’s Cloudmonster shoes have one of the thickest rocker soles out of all of their shoe options, which makes for an ideal running or walking shoe because the shoe guides your foot while stepping, making it easier for you to push off in if you’re getting in long daily walks.
6 colors available
The chunky dad shoe trend is seriously here to stay, which I’m all for because at the end of the day, you’re getting the support you need. These AL8 Nikes have padded and molded heel support that provides a perfectly cushioned feeling.
5 colors available
I love to see a walking shoe double as a cute everyday shoe, and these Nike Waffle Debut shoes can be worn in and out of the office. Trust me when I say that these can handle your commute no matter how long it is with their cushioned footbed and comfy foam midsole that make your morning walk (or jog) to the train actually pleasant.
5 colors available
READ: This Easy Hack Helps Tone While You Walk
Key Walking Shoe Features
Not all shoes are created equal, especially when it comes to walking. The best walking shoes are thoughtfully designed with features that keep your feet happy, even on your longest days. Look for a walking shoe with ample cushioning to absorb shock and reduce the impact on your joints. Support is key—your shoes should help guide your foot through a natural stride, preventing issues like overpronation or supination. Stability features, such as a firm heel counter or a stable platform, help keep your ankles steady and reduce the risk of rolling or twisting. Finally, don’t overlook traction: a good walking shoe should have a grippy outsole to keep you steady on everything from slick sidewalks to gravel paths. By focusing on these features, you’ll be well on your way to finding the best walking shoes for your daily routine.
The Importance of Heel-to-Toe Drop
One feature that often gets overlooked when choosing a walking shoe is the heel to toe drop—the difference in height between the heel and the forefoot. This small detail can have a big impact on your walking style and overall comfort. A lower heel to toe drop encourages a more natural stride, allowing your foot to move as it would if you were barefoot, which can help reduce strain on your calf muscles and Achilles tendon. On the other hand, a higher drop offers extra cushioning under the heel, which some walkers find more comfortable, especially on hard surfaces. However, too much drop can sometimes contribute to issues like plantar fasciitis or alter your natural gait. When selecting a walking shoe, think about your typical walking terrain and your personal comfort—if you’re unsure, starting with a moderate drop is a safe bet for most walking styles.
Types of Walking Shoes: Which Style Fits Your Stride?
With so many walking shoes on the market, it helps to know which type best matches your needs and walking habits. Cushioned neutral walking shoes are ideal if your feet have a neutral arch and you want plush comfort for longer walks or daily errands. These shoes offer extra cushioning and a flexible feel, making them a favorite for all-day wear. If you have flat feet or tend to overpronate, stability shoes are designed with added support features to help guide your foot and provide a more solid underfoot feel, reducing the risk of discomfort or injury. For those who love to take their walks off the beaten path, trail running shoes are a great choice—they’re built for uneven terrain, offering enhanced stability, extra traction, and protection from rocks and roots. No matter your stride or surface, there’s a walking shoe designed to keep you comfortable and supported every step of the way.
Jenna Piotrowicz, Editorial Assistant
Jenna began working as an Editorial Assistant for The Everygirl in 2024. With her eye for detail, she assists the team with content creation, sourcing products and images, and works behind the scenes to support The Everygirl in uploading and updating content.
Bella Gil, Former Associate Commerce Editor
As the Former Associate Commerce Editor, Bella was dedicated to making sure you spend your hard-earned money on products you’ll fall in love with. She spent her days testing, researching, and writing about a wide range of topics, from beauty products to rug cleaners and everything in between.
