As a walker, I know the transformative power of walking. But the wrong shoes can make this low-key workout a source of pain and frustration. According to the American Council of Acefitness Exercise, walking provides many benefits, including weight management, cardiovascular health, and mood. In this post, we will tell you the top 7 best Athletic Shoes For Walking, So that you can find the best partner for your walking according to your needs and preferences.
Our Top Picks
Best for All Day: New Balance Made in USA 990v6,
Best for Concrete: Brooks Glycerin GTS 20,
Best for Treadmill: Saucony Endorphin Speed 3,
Best for Cushioning: Hoka Bondi 8,
Best for low budget: Asics Gel-Venture 8,
Best for Women: Ryka Devotion Plus 3,
Best for Lightweight: Adidas Ultraboost,
Table of Contents
Remember: The weight of all men’s shoes is estimated according to size 9 and Women’s shoes will typically weigh slightly less.
New Balance Made in USA 990v6 (Best for All Day)
Key Specs
- Cushioning: Maximum,
- Drop: 8mm,
- Materials: Leather/Mesh,
- Weight: 374.5 grams (13.2 oz),
- Support Level: Moderate-High,
- Best For: All-day walking, various terrains,
Why We Love Them
New Balance 990v6 stands out as a champion that goes the distance in comfort. This American-made classic shoe boasts a sleek ABZORB midsole. This is a technology that podiatrists rely on for its extraordinary branch absorption. This is the magic of ABZORB, which gives the illusion of walking for miles without feeling the impact on your joints.
Furthermore, 990 v6 includes a medial post whose hidden essence cradles the arch to promote proper foot alignment and prevent overpronation, Which is a common reason behind foot fatigue and pain.
The toe box of this shoe is another win, it lets your toes shine naturally and prevents them from feeling tight or rubbing up, which is the culprit of foot blisters. So if you’re looking for a shoe that offers plush cushioned support and a roomy fit for all-day walking adventures, the New Balance Made in 99V USA is a top contender.
Pros
- American-made quality,
- Ultra-comfortable,
- Versatile for all terrains,
Cons
- Heavier than some options,
- might not be the most stylish for everyone
Brooks Glycerin GTS 21 (Best for Concrete)
Key Specs
- Cushioning: Maximum,
- Drop: 10mm,
- Materials: Engineered mesh,
- Weight 8.8oz / 249.5g,
- Support Level: Moderate-High,
- Best For: Walking on concrete, needs stability,
Why We Love Them
Concrete surfaces can be unforgiving on up joints. This is where the Brooks Glycerin 21 GTX steps in Because this shoe is specially designed to tackle surface challenges. The star of this shoe is its DNA Loft V3 midsole, which is Brooks’s innovative system its midsole absorbs shock with every step, protecting your joints from the impact of concrete.
While, this shoe maintains balance with Guide Rails technology, unlike some overly plush shoes, this subtle guide-up keeps the foot in its natural range of motion.
As well as prevents excessive inward rotation of the shoe So that you are free from pain and instability.
The combination of short high absorption and subtle guidance makes the Glycerin 20 shoe perfect for walkers and those who want to regularly conquer concrete blocks.
Pros
- Plush cushioning ideal for concrete,
- Built-in stability for support
Cons
- Higher drop (10mm) might not suit everyone,
- Slightly bulkier design
Saucony Endorphin Speed 3 (Best for Treadmill)
Key Specs
- Cushioning: SOFT & BOUNCY,
- Drop: 8mm,
- Materials: Nylon mesh,
- Weight: 8.1 oz. (229g),
- Support Level: Neutral,
- Best For: Treadmill walking, faster walks,
Why We Love Them
Walking on a treadmill is a form of exercise that mimics walking outside. Saucony Endorphin Speed 3 is a lightweight cushioned shoe that transitions beautifully to treadmill walking. At the same time, the PW phone used in it has a midsole. This innovative technology maintains good speed on the machine while providing a spring-like feel.
Although the cushioning isn’t as plush as some traditional running shoes, it’s perfectly suited for the controlled environment of the treadmill. The Saucony Endorphin Speed 3 also features a neutral support level, making it the perfect shoe for runners who need extra stability.
Pros
- Fast rocker geometry,
- Lightweight and responsive,
- Perfect for brisk walks and treadmills,
Cons
- Not for narrow feet,
- Upper fit can be difficult to dial in,
Hoka Bondi 8 (Best for Cushioning)
Key Specs
- Cushioning: Maximum,
- Drop: 4mm,
- Materials: Engineered mesh,
- Weight: 10.2 oz (Men’s) / 8.8 oz (Women’s),
- Support Level: Neutral,
- Best For: Everyday, Run, Walking Comfort,
Why We Love Them
The Hoka Bondi 8 is the reigning shoe of their brand and feels like walking on air. Living up to its name, this shoe relies on an incredibly plush midsole built with Hoka’s signature cushioning technology. That’s like sinking into a cloud of softness with every step you take. Although, the Bondi 8 features a well-designed upper that keeps your foot securely in place, preventing excessive movement and potential injuries.
However, it’s important to note that this shoe’s pronounced cushioning and soft midsole may not be ideal for everyone. But for some, the value may be too high for people who want a more responsible feeling while suffering from excessive stress.
Pros
- Maximum comfort for pampered feet,
- Great for long walks,
Cons
- Bulky design,
- Heavier weight might feel cumbersome for some walkers,
Asics Gel-Venture 8 (Best for low budget)
Key Specs
- Cushioning: Regular,
- Drop: 8mm,
- Materials: Mesh,
- Weight: 10.2 oz (Men’s) / 8.8 oz (Women’s),
- Support Level: Moderate,
- Best For: Budget-friendly, everyday walking,
Why We Love Them
As you know the importance of good walking shoes. But you don’t have to break the bank with Asics Gel-Venture 8. As it steps in as a champion for those on a budget, Venture 8 incorporates Asics’ revered GEL technology in the heel. That’s strategically placed to absorb shock and reduce the impact on your joints.
In addition, the Gel Venture 8 boasts a supportive upper that helps promote proper gait and reduces the risk of injuries associated with improper footwear. However, it’s important to note that the materials used in Venture 8 may not be as breathable as some premium options. That may be a factor for walkers who live in hot climates or who are prone to sweaty feet.
Pros
- Budget-friendly option,
- Good balance of support and cushion for everyday wear.
Cons
- Not be plush as some high-end shoes,
- Materials might not be breathable,
Ryka Devotion Plus 3 (Best for Women)
Key Specs
- Cushion Level: Maximum,
- Drop: 10mm,
- Materials: Mesh,
- Weight: 9.3 oz,
- Support Level: Moderate,
- Best For: Women’s specific fit, Everyday walking,
Why We Love Them
The Rakya Devotion Plus 3 is specially designed for women walkers keeping in mind their needs, It absorbs shock without adding unnecessary bulk. Adding unnecessary bulk doesn’t mean sacrificing support Because Ryka has added a support structure to its model that solves the problems faced by women walkers.
In addition, a delight is that this shoe is available in a range of different widths and colors. That allows women to find the perfect fit and style match for their walking adventures. So they can experience lightweight comfort and targeted support during their walks.
Pros
- Focuses on fit and comfort,
- Designed specifically for women’s walking needs,
Cons
- Limited availability in wider widths,
- Might not be the best choice for men
Adidas Ultraboost (Best for Lightweight)
Key Specs
- Cushion Level:Moderate,
- Drop: 10mm,
- Materials: PrimeKnit+,
- Weight: 10.2 oz,
- Support Level: Neutral,
- Best For: Performance-oriented walking, faster walks,
Why We Love Them
The Adidas Ultraboost Boost is the lightest shoe. Because it’s a new-generation shoe that gets a lightweight boost form from a unique molecular design. These hundreds of Boost capsules provide energy and ultimate pillowy comfort. Plus its textured outsole provides grip for all types of surfaces. This means the shoe provides plenty of flexibility for the bumpy ride uneven surfaces.
In addition, the shoe is made from recycled materials that use Ultra Boost Light PRIMEKNIT+FORGED technology, that a sock fits like a sock that doesn’t slip. So the UltraBoost also includes a neutral support level that makes it a great finish for those runners, who want stability as well as freedom from heavy shoes.
Pros
- Great grip for uneven surfaces,
- Lightweight and propulsive for a performance-oriented walk
Cons
- Lower stack height,
- May not be the most budget-friendly option
So this is our list of the Top 7 Best Athletic Shoes For Walking from which you can choose the best partners for your walking and enjoy your walking so don’t be afraid to choose the best shoe for yourself and don’t forget to let us know. (Thank you so much for your valuable time).