Author
Tanner Bowden & Danielle Vilaplana
Photographer
Tanner Bowden
Field Mag may receive a minor commission from purchases made via affiliate links.
Additional product testing and research by Danielle Vilaplana
Any shoe can be a walking shoe, but not every shoe can be a good walking shoe; good as in supportive and comfortable over long stretches of sidewalk, street, cobblestone, and trail. Good as in good looking enough to like being seen in whether that's at the coffee shop down the block or a vinyl bar in Tokyo. These are the qualities that I think of when I think of the best walking shoes, which also happen to be the best travel shoes.
Though walking is a natural movement, it’s not always as simple as hitting the sidewalk in any old shoe. If you’ve ever gone on a long hike or walked miles across a city, you may be familiar with aching heels, lower back pain, and other bipedal afflictions. Every shoe is designed to protect your foot but not every walking shoe will suit your support needs or the terrain, so it's worth giving a little thought to the pair that you pick for your travels.
Below, you'll find my picks for the best walking shoes for wearing at home or for any kind of trip. After the list, i've provided more info on walking shoes and what you should consider when buying a new pair, including some FAQs.
Field Mag's Top Walking Shoe Picks
- Best Overall Walking Shoe: Hoka Transport
- Most Comfortable Walking Shoe: ASICS Gel-Nimbus 26
- Most Versatile: Norda 001
- Most Unique: Keen WK400
- Most Supportive: Brooks Addiction Walker 2
- Best Slip-On Walking Shoe: Merrell Jungle Moc
- Best Boot for Walking: Blundstone Original 550
- Best Running Shoe: Saucony Triumph 21
- Best Hiking Shoes for Walking: Altra Timp 5
- Best Clog: Birkenstock Tokio Super Grip Clog
- Best Sandal: Chaco Mega Z/Cloud Sandal
What We Look for in Walking Shoes & How We Tested
Every adventure may merit its own set of features—like GORE-TEX, extra grip, breathability, a slip-on design, or something else—almost every trip will involve spending time on your feet. Whether you're exploring Zion or glamping in England's Lakes District, or simply getting steps in at home between meetings, you'll want to consider the best walking shoes through the key features of comfort and support. You should feel both when you try on a shoe for the first time, but these qualities should last over a full day, too. Once you have these, then you can hone in on specific needs like waterproofing, foot shape, moisture wicking properties, and style.
Field Mag's team of editors and gear testers has been roaming the world for going on a decade and have got our feet in as many pairs of shoes as we can during that time, from hiking boots to running shoes to made-for-walking shoes, to hiking sandals. This list represents the latest and greatest in the world of walking shoes, based on our testers' experiences with them as well as extensive research on new models and conversations with the companies making them.
The 11 Best Walking Shoes For Men (and Women) in 2024
Best Overall Walking Shoe: Hoka Transport
Pros: Comfy, quick lace system is nice, versatile
Cons: Not as cool looking as other Hokas
Hoka shoes are the original chonks, starting as a plush alternative to the early 2000s Born to Run minimalist craze. Now Hoka is one of the top brands making walking and running shoes, which have such a devoted fan base that it’s tough to narrow down the options in a beloved lineup (the Hoka Bondi is a cult-level everyday running shoe for walking), but ultimately, the Hoka Transport is our top pick as a dedicated pair of comfortable walking shoes.
The Transport is specifically designed as a city-savvy walking shoe for commuters and travelers trodding long distances on the daily. Quick-toggle laces are easy to loosen and tighten for on-the-go accessibility, but wearers have the option to use traditional laces as well. Neutral stability underfoot is suitable for most walkers and easily accommodates custom footbeds, and the EVA midsole cushioning is thick without feeling damp and unresponsive. Reflective accents add a touch of urban safety with GORPcore style sensibilities, too.
Women's Option: Yes
Weight: 11.2 oz
Drop: 5 mm
Price: $150
Most Comfortable: ASICS Gel-Nimbus 26
Pros: Comfy all day long, good for running, breathable upper
Cons: No weather resistance
Field Mag editor-at-large Tanner Bowden is a longtime running shoe tester, and of all the pairs he tried in 2023, the Gel-Nimbus 25 was his pick for most comfortable. He put over 225 miles on his pair before getting the updated Gel-Nimbus 26, and attests that it's just as cushy as its predecessor. While they're a great pair for running, the Nimbus is also ideal for walking around all day long with plenty of cushion for shock absorption and also enough rebound to keep things from feeling too squishy. It helps that this shoe's upper is also soft, stretchy, and breathable, so you'll never get sweaty feet.
Women's Option: Yes
Weight: 10.76 oz (US men's 9)
Drop: 8 mm
Price: $160
Most Versatile: Norda 001
Pros: Good for anything, super lightweight, great traction, comfy
Cons: Expensive, sizing can be tricky
New footwear companies often take a long time to get up and running. Not Norda, which right off the line has impressed legions of trail runners with the 001. The shoe is made to be highly durable with a Dyneema upper, a hefty Vibram rubber outsole for great grip, and a Vibram SLE midsole too. We expected it to be trail-use only, but have found ourselves wearing it on the daily; to work, to run errands, to go out, as hiking shoes. It looks good too (it's right in line with the never-ending GORP trends), and the fact that you can run or hike in it makes it perfect for travel.
Unisex
Weight: 9.45 oz (size 8.5 men's)
Drop: 5 mm
Price: $285
Most Unique: Keen WK400
Pros: Breathable, responsive feel
Cons: Rolling can feel weird at first
The Keen WK400 walking shoe is all about forward momentum. KEEN.CURVE technology features constant curve rocker geometry and a responsive, high-energy midsole to create natural forward momentum. The motion is so effortless that Keen claims that this pair of walking shoes will elevate your experience from everyday routine to a truly fun activity. Some reviewers claim that the shape can feel odd when not in motion, so the WK400s definitely function best as part of a quiver, but don't be surprised if you take them 300 to 500 miles even as part of a set.
Women's Option: Yes
Weight: 13.65 oz
Drop: 10 mm
Price: $160
Most Supportive: Brooks Addiction Walker 2
Pros: Classic leather sneaker look, great casual walking shoes
Cons: Could be overkill for some
The Brooks Addiction Walker 2 walking shoes are designed for those who need extra cushioning and stability, including plus-size individuals. Brooks’ Extended Progressive Diagonal Rollbar provides full-foot support that cradles your foot and encourages a natural stride, and the shoes come in a wide array of widths to accommodate every walker. The BioMoGo DNA foam midsole offers adaptable cushioning that responds to unique strides and weights and helps reduce joint impact. The leather upper is durable and stiffer than mesh walking shoes for extra support, and the certified slip-resistant soles provide traction on slick surfaces.
Women's Option: Yes
Weight: 14.5 oz
Drop: 12 mm
Price: $130
Best Slip-On Walking Shoe: Merrell Jungle Moc
Pros: Versatile, rugged, affordable
Cons: Look isn't for everyone
While most slip-on shoes opt for minimalism that can't stand up for more than a few hours on your feet, the Jungle Moc goes big. It has a supportive footbed, a super-comfy EVA midsole, and a rugged rubber outsole that you can take off-road. It's telling that the shoe has been a staple in Merrell's lineup for more than 20 years, but we were somehow still surprised to try the latest version of the Moc (featuring a recycled footbed) and find that it's really as comfortable all day long as everyone's been saying it is.
Women's Option: Yes
Weight: 10.93 oz
Drop: not specified
Price: $100
Best Boot: Blundstone Original 550
Pros: Good for dressing up, supportive
Cons: Expensive compared to other picks
The Blundstone Original 550 boot is the semi-ugly Tasmanian gardener's boot that America wholeheartedly adopted due to its durability, easy Chelsea design, and ability to pair with anything. This best seller's leather upper is water-resistant for four-season use and the higher ankle provides extra support (but not overkill) to the ankles, perfect for a walk anywhere. Blundstone’s shock-absorbing sole provides excellent traction on different surfaces too and the boot can easily accommodate an insole (and it comes with a volume filler that goes under the stock insole)—if there is one travel shoe that I found can truly do everything, it’s the Blundstone Original 550.
Unisex
Weight: 16.93 oz (US men's 9)
Drop: not specified
Price: $230
Best Running Shoe: Saucony Triumph 21
Pros: Responsive, comfy upper
Cons: Not the best for fast runs
In testing the latest version of one of Saucony's most beloved running shoes, we were surprised at how responsive and comfortable it was, and also how stable it felt underfoot. As a result, we found ourselves lacing up the Triumph 21 for quick errands in addition to quicker runs, where the cushy midsole absorbs impact. It's definitely a run-first shoe, but if you're into one-pair travel and plan to walk a lot do some jogging, the new Triumph is an excellent choice that'll keep you comfy in Main Cabin, museums, and beyond.
Women's Option: Yes
Weight: 9.8 oz
Drop: 10 mm
Price: $160
Best Walking Shoes for Wide Feet: Altra Timp 5
Pros: Roomy toe box, excellent grip
Cons: Zero-drop can take getting used to
Technically, the Timp isn't a hiking shoe, it's a trail running shoe. But the combination of lightness, support, grip, and wide footbox that makes it ideal for trail running also makes it perfect for any trip or day that involves a lot of walking, especially if a chunk of it is going to be on dirt and rock and roots. The Timp has a Vibram Megagrip outsole for extra grip. It also has the two features that have earned Altra tons of appreciation from runners—a wider, foot-shaped toe box and zero drop from heel to toe. This can take some getting used to, but most who do come to love it. (It's also worth saying that the American Podiatric Medical Association awarded the shoe a Seal of Acceptance.)
Women's Option: Yes
Weight: 9.8 oz
Drop: 0 mm
Price: $155
Best Clog: Birkenstock Tokio Super Grip Clog
Pros: Grippy, supportive, easy on/off
Cons: Take some wearing in
Birkenstock may have secured a reputation as hippie footwear, but its shoes have also had street cred among podiatrists and orthopedists—for nearly a century. Every pair, including the Tokio Super Grips, has a super-supportive sculpted footbed with built-in arch support and wears in well over time. The Tokios add a heel strap to the classic clog for extra security and a grippy rubber outsole that makes them capable of true all-day wear. Birkenstock imagined them partly for service workers and health professionals (as in, folks who are on their feet all day), so they'll handle cruising around town just fine. (Also, if you're a fan of "The Bear," these are what Carmy and Syd wear in the kitchen.)
Women's Option: Yes
Weight: 12.98 oz (US men's 9)
Drop: not specified
Price: $155
Best Sandal: Chaco Mega Z/Cloud Sandal
Pros: Supportive, great for varied terrain
Cons: Heavier than other sandals
Chacos have separated themselves from the strappy sandals crowd—known for minimal support—with their big, supportive soles. They're ideal for nearly any type of outdoor activity where sandals fit the bill—one of our testers even hikes a big portion of the Appalachian Trail in a pair of Z/1s. The Mega Z/Cloud takes that recipe and gears it even further towards comfort, making it the ideal sandal for outdoor activities and casual cruising all day long. One of the ways it does that is with Chaco's slightly softer Cloud cushioning, and another way is with extra-wide straps. We've found that these straps provide more security with less pressure on the edges compared to other sandals, even on uneven terrain. They have more of a hug feel to them, rather than the typical cinching down. Like other Chacos, they have a super-grippy outsole that can handle trails, rivers, rocks, and sidewalks.
Women's Option: Yes
Weight: 13.3 oz
Drop: not specified
Price: $105
SHOP FROM CHACO
Frequently Asked Questions
What to Look for in Walking Shoes
Support
The best walking shoes should be comfortable and provide ample stability, with a cushioned sole for shock absorption and good arch support to prevent foot fatigue and avoid injury. Walking shoes feature varying levels of drop (the difference between the height of the heel and the forefoot) and midsole cushioning, which will affect how each pair feels and provide different levels of stability. Those with particular needs, like additional support or correction for overpronation or help with knee pain or issues to the plantar fascia, may benefit from a neutral shoe with a custom insole.
Most brands have a higher heel-to-toe drop but there are still brands making zero drop shoes. The jury is out on if drop causes or prevents injury, but as a general rule, those who need immediate arch support or have heel pain will benefit from a traditional drop (10mm). Those who are looking to strengthen their arches over time or have plantar fasciitis will benefit from zero drop shoes. Some of us have flat feet or wide feet, so as always, it's best to try on shoes in-store to get the right fit—nay, the perfect fit.
Breathability
A lightweight and breathable design is also important to keep your feet cool and dry in warmer conditions. Breathable sneakers will prevent moisture build up on the inside, which can lead to blisters and other ailments that take the fun out of walking. Waterproof shoes and hiking boots such as those with Gore-Tex (often denoted as GTX in the shoe name) will inherently be less breathable due to the presence of that waterproof membrane. The right socks can also help keep your feet dry.
Wide Toe Box
The shoe should fit snugly with enough room for your toes to move and splay out, especially over the course of a long day packed with strolls. Some shoes are designed with extra wide toe boxes to promote natural movement and toe splay and will be denoted as such in the description. Designs vary from brand to brand—Asics won't use the same last as Reebok or New Balance, for example—but you'll also find that shoes vary within brands too.
Durability
If you’re in the market for a walking shoe that also performs on trails, look for durable materials that can withstand wear and tear. Grippy soles and deeper lugs will provide better traction on wet and uneven surfaces, but they might not be as comfy on pavement and sidewalks all day long. Upper and midsole materials will, naturally, wear out over time too, especially some of the softer meshes and foams found in many lightweight running shoes with lots of cushioning. On the other end of the spectrum, a good leather boot will last the longest, but it might not provide the most comfort.
How Do I Break In My New Shoes?
Walk in them! If you're buying walking shoes for a trip, wear them for shorter jaunts around home first. Wear them at work, to the grocery store, and around your home. There are hacks to make the break-in period go faster, but in our experience the best way to do it is the old fashioned way. Most of the shoes on our list don't really need a break in period—these aren't backpacking boots.
How Often Should I Replace My Walking Shoes?
Replace your walking shoes when they start to show real signs of wear and tear. This might look like worn out tread, torn mesh, or delaminating layers. Be mindful of replacing them too soon—a tiny hole in the upper might not look nice but is probably nothing to worry about, and most walking shoes should last for 300 to 500 miles and even beyond. Repair or resole them when you can (especially if they're boots), and check the brand's warranty program if they seem to fall apart too soon.
Is It Okay To Buy Running Shoes For Walking?
Yes! With a cushioned and supportive construction, many running shoes and trail running shoes make great walking shoes. Some running shoes might have features specifically for running that won't do much for you if walking is all you plan to use them for though—you don't need a carbon fiber plate in there—so just make sure the features aren't too extra.
Published 04-26-2023
Updated 03-27-2024
