The 8 best walking shoes for men

When it comes to exploring the world on foot, finding a dependable pair of walking shoes is the key, especially if you frequently find yourself on your feet for prolonged periods of time. Selecting shoes that cater to your specific foot type—whether they are wide or narrow, or you need a little extra arch support—can make a difference to promote comfort and avoid potential injury. 

“Good support for your body while standing starts from the ground up,” says Cleveland Clinic orthopedic surgeon Caitlin Lewis. “Your feet are the foundation for weight-bearing. Good quality, comfortable walking shoes provide adequate support and structure from the ground up.  Poor structure leads to poor lower leg mechanics, which can lead to subsequent pain and dysfunction.” 

(Learn why walking is the sixth vital sign—and how to do it right.)

The best men's walking shoes offer a blend of functionality and style to ensure a comfortable and supported stride, which is why the On Cloudaway rose to the top of our list. These men’s walking shoes stood out for their use of CloudTec cushioning technology, which provides a cushion for softer foot landings, as well as a firm and stable platform for pushing off during your stride, making them a smart choice for an everyday sneaker. 

The best men's walking shoes of 2024

Whether you're hitting the trail or running an errand, these walking shoes will keep you comfy and supported. 

(See our roundup of the best walking shoes for women.) 

Best walking shoes for men overall: On Cloudaway

Buy it now at On

Why we like it: A great option for an everyday men’s walking shoe, the On Cloudaway earned top marks overall due to its combination of comfort, performance, and style. Its CloudTec cushioning technology helps support a smooth and supportive ride, absorbing impact while promoting natural foot movement. 

The breathable mesh upper keeps your feet cool and dry, enhancing airflow, while the lightweight design reduces fatigue during extended walks. Additionally, the durable rubber outsole offers excellent traction on various surfaces, making these shoes suitable for both urban environments and outdoor trails. 

Available in a range of colorways, including classic black and vibrant hues, the On Cloudaway caters to different style preferences. 

Keep in mind: The sizing for this shoe is pretty standard, so those with wider feet might want to consider a shoe that offers wide specific sizing options.

Product details: Weight: 9.94 ounces | Heel drop: 8mm | Size range: 7-14 | Color options: 3 | Lacing: Elasticated | Cushioning: CloudTec | Materials: Polyester, rubber, other

Best walking shoes for flat feet: Hoka Arahi 7

Buy it now at Hoka 

Why we like it: Engineered with Hoka's J-Frame technology—designed to reduce the risk of overpronation (when your gait causes your foot to roll inward while you walk, eventually putting strain on your arches)—arch support is provided throughout the gait cycle, promoting an efficient stride and a more natural foot motion. The plush cushioning of the Arahi 7 offers comfort and responsiveness, making it suitable for both daily walks and longer distances.

When researching this product, we looked for shoes that prioritize cushioning and motion control—two crucial factors for flat-footed people to prevent discomfort and potential injury. The Hoka Arahi 7 excels in both, thanks to its plush midsole cushioning and firm yet flexible construction. Additionally, the wide range of available colorways and sizing options ensures that every wearer can find the perfect fit and style to suit their preferences.

Keep in mind: Some reviewers have mentioned that the Hoka Arahi 7 has a slightly narrow fit. 

Product details: Weight: 9.9 ounces | Heel drop: 5mm | Size range: 7-15, 7-15W | Color options: 9 | Laces: Traditional laces | Cushioning: J-frame and zonal rubber | Materials: Knit upper, rubber, CMEVA foam

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Best waterproof walking shoes: Teva Omnium 2 Hybrid Hiking Water Shoe

Buy it now at Zappos or Amazon

Why we like it: Waterproof walking shoes are helpful for hikes that might involve crossing or wading through streams or rivers, protecting your feet from sharp objects and providing tread to avoid slips. Crafted with outdoor enthusiasts in mind, this shoe from Teva transitions from dry land to wet terrain without compromising on performance. 

To find the best waterproof walking shoe, we examined options for durable, quick-dry materials, which ensure that your feet won’t remain uncomfortably wet for the rest of your hike or walk. We also looked at shoes that provide ample traction. 

The Teva Omnium 2 Hybrid Hiking Water Shoe offers traction and stability, thanks to its durable Rugged Spider Rubber outsole. This feature enhances grip on various surfaces, ensuring confident steps on both dry and wet ground. 

Keep in mind: Smell is always a concern for a pair of shoes that are consistently getting wet. To combat that, these Tevas are treated with Life Natural—a peppermint-based anti-odor treatment.

Product details: Weight: 13.25 ounces | Heel drop: 10.55mm | Size range: 7-14 | Color options: 2 | Lacing: Buckle, elastic | Cushioning: EVA foam | Materials: Nylon, recycled plastic, polyester yarn

Best walking shoes for men with wide feet: Orthofeet Yari Hands-Free

Buy it now on Amazon

Why we like it: Men with wider feet often find their toes cramped within the toe box of many walking shoes, and can experience discomfort stemming from pressure points with longer periods of wear. Because of this, we looked for shoes with plenty of room in the toe box, as well as those that provide a pressure-free fit. 

These walking shoes by Orthofeet tick both boxes, due to their combination of comfort and support. The shoes also feature a cushioned insole with anatomical arch support and a lightweight sole designed to provide stability and shock absorption, promoting a more natural walking motion and reducing strain on the feet and joints. 

The soft fabric interior has no overlays, eliminating irritation, and though they have the appearance of a traditional laced sneaker, they’re actually built to be able to slip in and out of. Depending on how wide someone’s feet are, they can choose from a variety of sizing that includes standard width, wide fit, X-wide, and XX-wide. 

Keep in mind: Those who require ankle support may find that the stretchable knitted upper doesn’t provide them with enough structure. 

Product details: Weight: 12.66 ounces | Size range: 7-14 (D-6E) | Color options: 4 | Lacing: Slip-on | Cushioning: Perforated foam, heel cushion | Materials: Knit upper, Dryflex fabric, poly-u-foam

Best walking shoes for older men: Vionic 23Walk Classic Sneaker

Buy it now at DSW

Why we like it: One of the features we considered when researching walking shoes for older men is the presence of built-in orthotic support, specifically designed to promote proper foot alignment and reduce discomfort associated with common foot ailments like plantar fasciitis and overpronation. 

These men’s walking shoes by Vionic, crafted with orthotic technology, help provide that stability and alignment; for older men, orthotic support not only enhances comfort during walks but also contributes to overall foot health. 

In addition to an antibacterial top cloth, these shoes feature a moisture-wicking polyester mesh liner and PU foam base that helps reduce friction against the skin. Bonus: With their durable rubber sole and premium leather upper, these shoes offer long-lasting wear and a timeless aesthetic suitable for multiple occasions.

Keep in mind: Some may find that these shoes require a bit of time to mold to the shape of their feet and achieve optimal comfort.

Product details: Weight: 12.66 ounces | Size range: 7-14 (D-6E) | Color options: 4 | Lacing: Slip-on | Cushioning: Perforated foam, heel cushion | Materials: Knit upper, Dryflex fabric, poly-u-foam

Best budget walking shoes: Skechers Men’s Gowalk 5

Buy it now on Amazon

Why we like it: These men’s walking shoes by Skechers are well-priced without compromising on comfort or quality—our main consideration for this category. Constructed with lightweight and breathable materials, they provide a comfortable walking experience for extended periods, and the incorporation of Skechers' Ultra Go cushioning ensures optimal support, making them ideal for daily wear or long walks. 

A lightweight “Goga Mat” insole bounces back similar to a yoga mat, also helping to wick away moisture. Overall, these walking shoes deliver value for money, making them a solid choice for anyone seeking comfortable and reliable sneakers without breaking the bank.

Keep in mind: Some wearers have mentioned that these particular shoes could have better arch support. 

Product details: Weight: 7.9 ounces | Size range: 7-16, 7-16 X-Wide | Color options: 8 | Lacing: Slip-on | Cushioning: Perforated foam, heel cushion | Materials: Knit upper, Dryflex fabric, poly-u foam

Best walking shoes for men with back pain: Kane Revive Active Recovery Shoe

Buy it now at Kane

Why we like it: Arch support, cushioning, and overall stability are crucial for those with back pain. In our search for the best walking shoe for men with back pain, the Kane Revive Active Recovery Shoe bubbled to the top thanks to its smart design, which is tailored to alleviate discomfort and promote recovery. 

Crafted from sugarcane-based RestoreFoam with a focus on support and cushioning, these shoes incorporate advanced features that specifically target back pain. The shoe's dual density construction provides shock absorption, reducing the impact on the spine with every step,  and the contoured insole offers customized arch support, enhancing overall comfort and alignment for people with back issues.

Its breathable perforated upper also promotes airflow, preventing excess moisture and keeping feet dry, while the raised footbed nodes activate blood flow in key pressure points.

Keep in mind: If you live in a place with colder weather, the perforated upper might be too breezy. 

Product details: Weight: 12.8 ounces | Heel drop: 10mm | Size range: 3-18 | Color options: 20 | Lacing: Slip-on | Cushioning: Sugarcane-based EVA foam | Materials: Sugarcane-based EVA foam

Best slip-on walking shoes for men: Kizik Athens Slip-On Sneakers

Buy it now on Amazon

Why we like it: Slip-on walking shoes are favored by many for multiple reasons, from their sheer ease of use and time-saving potential to their sleek style. These slip-ons by Kizik eliminate the hassle of traditional laces with their hands-free design, allowing you to easily slip them on and off. 

Along with convenience, they boast a cushioned footbed and supportive construction that ensures long-lasting comfort throughout the day. The slip-on design not only saves time but also accommodates various foot shapes and sizes, making them suitable for a wide range of users. 

Additionally, the sneakers come in multiple colorways, including classic black and versatile navy, allowing wearers to find the perfect style to match their wardrobe.

For people with mobility issues or those who simply appreciate the convenience of slip-on shoes, the Kizik Athens Slip-On Sneakers combine functionality and style. 

Keep in mind: This slip-on has a roomy toe box, so might not be the best for those with narrow feet. 

Product details: Weight: 12.8 ounces | Heel drop: 10mm | Size range: 5-15 | Color options: 9 | Lacing: Slip-on | Cushioning: Rabbit foam | Materials: Knit

How we chose the best men’s walking shoes

With so many options to pick from, choosing a pair of walking shoes that works best for you can be time-consuming. We scrutinized the following attributes when narrowing down our list of the best walking shoes: 

• Third-party reviews: Brand marketing can often be misleading and create unrealistic expectations about products. To ensure that our recommendations for men's walking shoes are genuinely reliable, we focused on shoes with high ratings and positive reviews from verified customers, which provide valuable insights into their long-term performance. 

• Brand reputation: Brand reputation matters, since it often reflects the company's commitment to quality, innovation, and customer satisfaction. 

• Value: Value in a walking shoe encompasses not only its price, but the balance between quality, durability, and performance. When choosing a walking shoe, value matters because it ensures that you're investing in footwear that provides the best possible benefits for your feet.

• Quality of materials: We researched the craftsmanship and materials used in the construction of each walking shoe, including the type of fabric and cushioning because durable, breathable materials ensure longevity, comfort, and adequate support.

• Support: The structural integrity and cushioning of your walking shoe helps maintain the proper alignment and stability of your feet while you move. The right support prevents discomfort or potential injury.

Tips for buying walking shoes for men

Heel drop

Heel drop refers to the height difference between the heel and the forefoot of a sneaker. To find the right heel drop for your walking shoe, prioritize finding a balance that suits your individual needs and gait. 

Typically, a moderate heel drop of around 8-12 millimeters can provide adequate cushioning and support for most. However, those with back pain or other biomechanical issues may benefit from a higher drop for additional heel cushioning. 

Arch support

Before considering what kind of arch support you need from a walking shoe, determine the arch level of your feet. Then, look for shoes with features like contoured footbeds, cushioned midsoles, and arch support systems designed to provide stability and alleviate pressure on the arches during walking. You can also consider trying orthotic shoes or those that mold to your feet, ensuring optimal support and comfort.

Height and width

When picking a walking shoe, make sure to take into account both the height and width. The height refers to the shoe's profile and how it accommodates the foot's natural shape and arch, and the width determines how snugly or roomily the shoe fits around the foot. 

Measure and consider your individual foot shape and any specific width requirements, such as narrow, regular, or wide, to ensure a comfortable and secure fit that allows for natural movement while walking. Dr. Lewis advises that your shoe should fit snug, but not tight, from the toe to the heel.

Traction

If you require a walking shoe with substantial traction, look for a pair with a durable rubber outsole that offers multidirectional patterns and deep grooves, which enhance grip and stability on various surfaces, including pavement, gravel, and trails. 

Also consider the shoe's overall flexibility and features like lugs or a textured surface, which can further improve traction and prevent slipping, especially in wet or slippery conditions. Dr. Lewis advises that people keep track of the wear in their shoes, looking at the bottom treads frequently. “When the tread pattern starts to wear away, it's time to get new shoes,” she says. 

Cushioning

The right amount of cushioning in a walking shoe is all about finding a balance between comfort and support. Look for shoes with ample cushioning in the midsole, particularly in areas like the heel and forefoot. It's also essential to assess the responsiveness of the cushioning, as well as the shoe's stability features, since excessive cushioning without proper support can lead to instability and potential discomfort during longer walks.

Frequently asked questions

What are the best walking shoes for long distances on concrete?

The best walking shoes for long distances on hard surfaces such as concrete have ample cushioning and support to minimize the impact on your feet and joints. 

Look for shoes with midsole cushioning made with high-quality foam or gel, to provide shock absorption. A durable outsole with sufficient traction is also important for long walks on concrete, ensuring stability and preventing slips. 

What shoe brand is best for walking?

There isn’t one shoe brand that is best for walking, as it depends on what kind of shoe adequately supports your unique foot shape and walking need—whether you’re a trail walker, someone who needs an extra wide fit, or in need of a shoe with tons of arch support. Some big box brands, such as Skechers and Asics, have a wide range of walking shoes to pick from, while more niche independent brands have a more curated range. 

What shoes are good for walking and standing all day?

Shoes that are good for walking and standing for long periods of time typically prioritize comfort, support, and durability. Consider shoes with shock absorption and supportive arches to prevent foot fatigue. 

A contoured footbed can also help maintain proper alignment and reduce strain on the feet, knees, and lower back. Try opting for shoes with breathable materials and a roomy toe box to prevent discomfort and allow for natural foot movement.