Finding the right walking shoes can make all the difference between an enjoyable stroll and sore feet at the end of the day. Whether you walk for fitness, commute on foot, or simply enjoy exploring your neighborhood, having quality footwear matters more than you might think. The brands we’ve gathered here offer something special—from cloud-like cushioning to innovative designs that keep your feet happy mile after mile.
On
Swiss engineering brought us watches, chocolate, and now some of the most innovative walking shoes on the market. On’s CloudTec midsole cushioning feels different from anything else—those distinctive pods compress and adapt with each step, creating a smooth, responsive ride.
Forbes crowned On as the best overall walking shoe brand for men in 2025, and that recognition didn’t come by accident. The brand balances cutting-edge technology with sleek, modern styling that looks just as good off the trail as on it.
Walking enthusiasts who want performance without looking too sporty often gravitate toward On’s refined aesthetic.
New Balance
Not all feet fit the same mold, and New Balance understands this better than most brands. Their wide sizing options have made them heroes for walkers with broader feet who’ve struggled to find comfortable shoes elsewhere.
Regularly featured in walking shoe tests, New Balance combines comfort with remarkable durability that keeps going season after season. The brand excels at everyday walking scenarios—grocery runs, dog walks, casual outings—without breaking down or losing support.
Many loyal customers swear they’ll never switch brands after discovering how well New Balance fits their unique foot shape and walking style.
Skechers
Quality walking shoes don’t always require emptying your wallet, and Skechers proves this point beautifully. Their GOwalk series with Arch Fit technology offers podiatrist-certified support at prices that won’t make you wince.
Appearing frequently in affordable walking shoe round-ups for 2025, Skechers has shed any outdated reputation to become a genuine contender. The lightweight design feels almost like wearing slippers, yet provides enough structure for daily walking routines.
Daily walkers who prioritize value without sacrificing comfort consistently turn to Skechers as their go-to brand for reliable, budget-friendly footwear that actually works.
Asics
With decades of athletic footwear expertise behind them, Asics brings scientific precision to walking shoe design. Their Gel cushioning system has become iconic, absorbing impact while maintaining a smooth, natural stride.
Models like the Gel-Nimbus 27 appear regularly in expert lists, especially recommendations for walkers concerned about arch support or overall foot health. The spacious toe box gives your toes room to breathe and spread naturally, reducing pressure during longer walks.
Walkers dealing with foot issues or those who simply want biomechanically sound footwear often find Asics addresses their concerns with thoughtful engineering.
Brooks
Originally celebrated for running shoes, Brooks discovered their cushioning and stability technologies translate beautifully to walking footwear. The Addiction Walker 2 and Glycerin series demonstrate how running innovation enhances the walking experience.
Expert reviews consistently praise Brooks for all-day comfort that doesn’t quit, even after hours on your feet. The balanced cushioning feels protective without being overly soft, maintaining proper alignment throughout your stride.
People who spend considerable time walking—whether for work, fitness, or pleasure—appreciate how Brooks shoes remain comfortable from morning until night without causing fatigue.
Hoka
Plush cushioning meets serious support in every pair of Hoka shoes, making them a favorite among walkers who refuse to compromise on comfort. Their Bondi and Clifton series have earned legendary status in walking circles, appearing in countless expert round-ups year after year.
What sets Hoka apart is that marshmallow-like feeling underfoot without sacrificing stability. Many walkers report feeling like they’re walking on clouds, yet the shoes provide enough structure for all-day wear.
If you’ve been searching for shoes that pamper your feet while handling miles of pavement, Hoka delivers exactly that experience.
Nike
Everyone recognizes the swoosh, but Nike’s walking-specific offerings sometimes fly under the radar compared to their running lineup. Yet their walking-friendly models earn recognition in 2025 guides for good reason—Nike’s decades of cushioning research benefit walkers tremendously.
The brand’s ability to blend performance with style means you won’t look out of place whether you’re power-walking through the park or meeting friends for coffee. Their shoes transition seamlessly from athletic activity to casual wear.
Fashion-conscious walkers who refuse to sacrifice looks for function often choose Nike for that perfect intersection of performance and street-ready style.
Altra
Walk the way nature intended—that’s Altra’s philosophy, and their zero-drop platform reflects this commitment to natural movement. Unlike traditional shoes that elevate your heel, Altra keeps your foot level, encouraging better posture and more efficient walking mechanics.
The roomy toe box has converted countless walkers who felt cramped in conventional shoes, allowing toes to splay naturally with each step. Specialist walking advice frequently mentions Altra for long-distance comfort and biomechanical benefits.
Walkers interested in transitioning toward more natural footwear without going fully minimalist find Altra offers the perfect middle ground with adequate cushioning.
Saucony
Though running shoes built their reputation, Saucony’s cushioning technology serves walkers exceptionally well. The Triumph 20 delivers plush, responsive comfort that works beautifully for both quick neighborhood loops and extended walking sessions.
Walking shoe round-ups mention Saucony for comfortable midsoles and support features that help men tackle long distances without discomfort. The brand understands that walkers need different performance characteristics than runners, adjusting their designs accordingly.
Long-distance walkers who log serious miles each week often discover Saucony provides the endurance-focused comfort they need without the premium price of some competitors.
Xero Shoes
Less is more with Xero Shoes, a brand embracing minimalism in a world of maximum cushioning. Their lightweight, natural-feel footwear appears in 2025 walking shoe reviews as a niche option performing surprisingly well for specific walking preferences.
The thin, flexible soles let you feel the ground beneath your feet, strengthening foot muscles and improving balance over time. Walkers wanting to escape bulky, heavily cushioned shoes find Xero refreshingly different.
This brand suits adventurous walkers ready to retrain their feet and experience walking with greater ground connection and sensory feedback than traditional shoes allow.
