The Best Walking Shoes For Men, According To Our Testers And Experts

Sizes: 7 to 14 | Widths: Medium | Colors: 14 total, including Glacier/White and Niagara/Black | Lacing: Elastic speed laces and pull-tight laces | Upper material: Antimicrobial mesh

• What’s notable: Made of partially recycled materials, this shoe’s breathable mesh upper and removable cushioned arch insole make it a comfy, easy-to-wear style.
• What could be better: This style runs a bit small and narrow, and Picciurro says they may not have enough foot and ankle support for everyone.

Swiss running shoe brand On is known for its science-backed CloudTec foam, a forgiving material described as “running on clouds.” Designed to provide all-day comfort, the Cloud 5 has a removable cushioned arch insole, should you require additional support, plus a Speedboard that runs the length of the sneaker that promotes stability and propulsion when walking. Weighing just 223 grams, it’s a super lightweight, sleek and eco-conscious shoe—around 45% of its materials are recycled. “People often gravitate toward this shoe because it can be worn as a slip-on,” says Mel Siegel, shoe specialist and owner of Sportech. “It doesn’t necessarily look like an athletic shoe, but it has a nice and comfortable sneaker feel.” This shoe runs on the smaller side, so you should consider sizing up by a half size.

What our testers say: Forbes Vetted account manager Rich Molinaro appreciates this pair’s mesh uppers. “I really enjoy the breathability of the shoe,” he says. “The mesh allows air flow that helps keep my feet cool after a long walk.”

Sizes: 7 to 15 | Widths: Medium, x-wide, xx-wide | Colors: 19 total, including Academy Blue and Black | Lacing: Pull-tight laces| Upper material: Mesh

• What’s notable: These shoes have breathable mesh uppers, the soles offer great traction and the price can’t be beat.
• What could be better: Some say they run smaller than previous versions of the shoe and comment that the quality could be better.

Here’s the thing about walking shoes: You can go cheap, but you may end up with poor cushioning and minimal support—which is a waste of money. To get a great pair with quality materials that last, you typically have to invest $50 to $100. Under Armour’s best-selling Charged Assert shoes hit the mark for an affordable pair that is outfitted with breathable mesh uppers, well-cushioned midsoles and durable outsoles for traction. If you want an excellent, no-fuss basic that’s comfortable for everyday, this is a solid pick.

What our testers say: Molinaro attests to this pair’s performance, noting that the mesh uppers “provide great breathability” while the outsoles “offer excellent traction that allows for stability and great grip no matter what surface.”

Sizes: 7 to 13 | Widths: Medium | Colors: 4 total, including Lead Gray and Jet Black | Lacing: Slip-on | Upper material: Novaknit fabric

• What’s notable: Kuru shoes are popular for their built-in arch support, and users report that they offer good traction on a variety of surfaces.
• What could be better: Some say these shoes run narrow through the toe box and the tongue comes up higher than they’d like on the ankle.

If you want the ease of a slip-on shoe and the cushioning of a sneaker, Kuru’s Atom offers the best of both. Designed with a focus on foot health and preventing pain, Kuru’s sneakers come with built-in arch support and cushioning that molds to your feet over time.

What our testers say: While Molinaro describes the knit upper material as “strong and durable,” he notes they aren’t as breathable as our picks from On and Under Armour.

Sizes: 4.5 to 15 | Widths: Standard, wide (EE) | Colors: 12 total, including Blackout and Slate Grey | Lacing: Slip-on | Upper material: Knit mesh

• What’s notable: If you’re affected by heel pain, the innovative springy heel of this shoe absorbs impact.
• What could be better: Some say that the slip-on design isn’t as supportive as they’d like.

Kizik’s shoes have an innovative feature that actually works—the “cage” at the back cradles your heels and provides a slight lift, so every time you push down, your heel subtly propels back up. This takes pressure off the tender parts of your foot and makes it easier to walk all day.

What our testers say: Audience development director Spencer Dukoff reports a secure fit. “Thanks to a well-cushioned insole and foam padding, the arch support is excellent and impact is absorbed efficiently,” he says. The slip-on design is fuss-free; however, Dukoff mentions that it “limits airflow compared to traditional lace-up sneakers.”

Sizes: 7 to 16 | Widths: Regular, wide | Colors: 25 total, including Black/Slate and Amber Haze/Sherbet | Lacing: Pull-tight laces | Upper material: Recycled polyester

• What’s notable: These popular shoes are approved by the American Podiatric Medical Association and get high marks from Piccuirro for heel support and cushioning. Plus, they’re available in both standard and wide fits.
• What could be better: Some wearers say the heel collar and tongue can press against your ankle.

If you struggle to find sneakers with arch support, the Hoka Clifton 9 is a podiatrist-recommended pick. With a 3mm heel-stack height and rocker sole design, the newest version of this popular sneaker has an ultra-supportive underfoot with responsive foam to absorb impact. The shoe is stamped with the American Podiatric Medical Association (APMA) Seal of Approval for foot health, and you’ll also benefit from its breathable mesh upper. While it’s available in a regular fit (D), the wide version (EE) is a blissful option for broader feet that require a little more room. “This has a big, cushioned midsole and a wider, fuller platform,” says Siegel. “It has a big toe box, and if you have a wider foot, it may be a good fit.” However, Siegel also reports “some people feel unstable in it because it’s so squishy.”

What our testers say: “They aren’t only comfortable on my feet, but on my calves and knees as well,” says Dukoff. “My feet were not sweaty after long walks, and were not uncomfortably sweaty (though still a little moist) after a jog.”

Sizes: 8 to 14 | Widths: Medium | Colors: 8 total, including Natural White and Dapple Grey | Lacing: Tie laces | Upper material: Merino wool

• What’s notable: This pair has a moisture-wicking insole, and if your shoes ever get dirty or smelly, they’re also machine washable.
• What could be better: Allbirds are stylish but not meant for rugged pursuits, like hiking.

Allbirds’ bestselling Merino Wool Runners is made from superfine ZQ merino wool, a fiber that’s soft, sustainable and boosts the shoe’s breathability while reducing unwanted odors. There’s also a moisture-wicking insole derived from castor bean oil, and the laces are comprised of 100% post-consumer recycled polyester. Beyond that, these sneakers are suited for everyday walking and are machine washable (on cold), should you scuff them up. Just keep in mind that these shoes are geared more towards urban environments rather than rugged terrain.

What our testers say: Dukoff describes the fit as “extremely comfortable,” and adds that “the shoes needed minimal breaking in, leaving zero blisters as I got adjusted to wearing them.”

Sizes: 7 to 15 | Widths: Medium (1D), wide (2E), extra-wide (4E) | Colors: 9 total, including Black and Skylight | Lacing: Tie laces | Upper material: Jacquard warp knit

• What’s notable: This highly cushioned shoe has a rocker-style sole which can be good for those with limited ankle mobility.
• What could be better: Some say this version of the Ghost runs large.

Brooks recently updated its wildly popular Ghost with tons of extra cushioning and a rocker-style sole, which is contoured to help “rock” your foot forward as you step down and then lift off. Unlike the original Ghosts, this pair is specifically designed for walking. “Brooks shoes are cut a little bit wider in the toe box,” says Siegel. “This can be important because your toes engage a lot when you’re walking and they really need to be able to spread out.” These shoes are also favored by podiatrists; they hold a Seal of Approval from the American Podiatric Medical Association.

What our testers say: “I wear Ghost 15s for running and walking but they are technically better suited to running,” says deputy editor Kari Molvar. “However, the Max is all about making walking more comfortable and stable. I’ve worn them for a few miles already and could really notice the extra cushioning.”

Sizes: 7 to 15 | Widths: Narrow (1B), medium (1D), wide (2E), extra-wide (4E) | Colors: 15 total, including Flintstone and Black | Lacing: Tie laces | Upper material: Engineered air mesh

• What’s notable: The ultra-light design of this shoe makes it comfortable when putting in lots of mileage.
• What could be better: Several users report that the nylon laces come untied too easily, and some say this shoe runs narrow.

If you’re covering longer distances, you’ll want a shoe that absorbs impact, cradles your arches and has a responsive design that makes it easier for your foot to move through heel to toe-off. Also used and recommended by Molvar, Brooks’ Ghost 15 running shoes are ultra light (10 ounces) for running or walking. The newly revamped midsole is engineered with rubber, air and foam for a smooth, balanced ride and “crash pads” on the outsole so it’s easier to propel forward. “The fit of the Brooks Ghost 15—it’s a neutral shoe—accommodates many different people’s feet,” says Siegel. “There’s a fuller toe box so it doesn’t feel like it squeezes the foot, and it has a slightly narrower heel.” If you have really high arches, however, Siegel says you may need something with even more arch support.

What our testers say: “I can, and did, walk for miles in these sneakers and I also wear them for running as well,” says Molvar. “Overall, they’re lightweight, supportive, super comfortable and breathable.”

Sizes: 7 to 16 | Widths: Narrow (1B), standard (1D), wide (2E), extra-wide (4E) | Colors: 6 total, including Arctic Grey and Blue Oasis | Lacing: Pull-tight laces | Upper material: Synthetic mesh

• What’s notable: The roomy toe box in this model allows toes room to spread out, and the breathable mesh upper allows for good air flow.
• What could be better: The tongue does not have a lot of padding, according to users, and it can slip to the side easily.

Ask foot experts which shoes are best for wide feet and New Balances are frequently at the top of the list. (This style has a Seal of Approval from the American Podiatric Medical Association.) The Fresh Foam X 880v14 comes in four width options, which is especially impressive for a sneaker style, and has a spacious toe box so your feet can spread out without feeling pinched or squished. Add in the bio-based, sustainable foam midsole that creates a pillowy walking cushion, no matter where you’re going. The multidirectional lugs enhance grip, and they exhibit strong traction on both wet and dry surfaces. “Both runners and walkers love this shoe,” says Siegel. “They’ve added a bit of cushy foam to it, but you’re not going to feel unstable in it.”

What our tester says: Dukoff—who tested the New Balance Fresh Foam X 880v13 before its v14 update—wore these sneakers on hot days and reports, “The moisture-wicking properties keep my feet dry on both long walks and on jogs, no matter the temperature outside.”

Sizes: 7.5 to 14 | Widths: Medium | Colors: 5 total, including Blue and Black | Lacing: Tie laces | Upper material: Engineered mesh

• What’s notable: These lightweight shoes work well if you have flat feet, and the removable Arch Fit insole can be replaced with your own orthotic if you wear them.
• What could be better: The soles don’t offer a lot of traction, so they may not work well on slick surfaces. Also, don’t buy them too large or you may feel the shoe lift at the heel when walking.

The Skechers Arch Fit 2.0 may offer relief if you have flat feet or are prone to joint and back aches due to its (removable) Arch Fit insole, a podiatrist-certified technology that molds to your feet for a custom fit. Just remember that the insole raises the heel more than a conventional pair of sneakers, so it will take some getting used to. Ultimately, the shoe is designed to balance weight across your entire foot for enhanced support and all-day comfort—a flexible rubber outsole ensures that. Not to mention, this pair is machine washable, making it easy to keep them looking fresh.

What our testers say: “I definitely can see wearing these around all the time, the comfort is emphasized and developed,” says Molinaro, who tested a previous version of this shoe, the Skechers Waveport Arch Fit. However, he notes that the arch-supportive insole was “a bit of an adjustment.”

Sizes: 7 to 15 | Widths: Medium (D), wide (2E), x-wide (4E) | Colors: 3 total, including Blue and Gray | Lacing: Tie laces | Upper material: Stretchable knitted fabric

• What’s notable: These have stretchy-yet-supportive uppers and an arch booster that helps prevent foot pain.
• What could be better: Orthofeet’s Ortho-Cushion system is sold separately.

Orthofeet’s Edgewater Stretch shoes feature removable, anatomical arch supports and an arch booster, which can tackle heel and foot pain caused by pressure while also helping re-align posture. The shoe is designed to fit comfortably with the addition of Orthofeet’s Ortho-Cushion System, offering both an orthotic insole and an ergonomic cushioning sole to dampen impact. The fabric is stretchy to promote a flexible, natural stride and, if you find yourself venturing onto uneven terrain, the rubber outsole should step up to provide a superior grip and keep you upright.

Sizes: 6 to 16 | Widths: Medium | Colors: 8 total, including Cognac and Black | Lacing: Slip-on | Upper material: Full-grain Italian calfskin

• What’s notable: The sleek style and leather upper make these dressy enough for work, and the memory foam footbed keeps wearers comfy for hours.
• What could be better: They’re on the expensive end.

If you’re looking for the comfort of a sneaker with the design of a dress shoe, Wolf & Shepherd specializes in “hybrid” shoes of this type. The Crossover is a bestseller created in collaboration with Steve Nash and combines a memory foam footbed with a full-grain leather upper and high-traction rubber outsole. It’s a stylish shoe for work days, weekends or even weddings.

Sizes: 6 to 16 | Widths: Medium (D), wide (2E), x-wide (4E) | Colors: 18 total, including White and Sheet Rock/Thunder Blue | Lacing: Tie laces | Upper material: Polyester knit mesh

• What’s notable: It comes in three widths and has reflective details to improve visibility on the road.
• What could be better: It’s a little on the heavy side.

This is a soft, plush shoe with a wide base that’s perfect for both cruising around town and logging miles on the treadmill—and the breathable mesh upper offers excellent temperature control. It’s a little heavier than its predecessor (the Nimbus 25) but the extra weight comes from important features, like the rubber outsole that combines Asicsgrip and Ahar + technology. Dr. Picciurro likes the shoe’s breathability and the advanced toe off, which helps with forward propulsion when walking. She also finds the Nimbus 26 to be good for those with flat feet or low back pain.