Highlights
- The best all-day walking shoe should be comfortable, supportive, durable, and flexible. They must also provide a good grip so that your feet don’t slip off when you walk.
- The best shoes for walking all day for men is the Adidas Ultra Boost 4.0 DNA
- The best women’s shoe all day walking shoe is the Allbirds Tree Dashers
You should feel comfortable on your feet when walking all day, regardless of the type of shoes you choose. Various shoes are suitable for walking on different platforms and at different times. Nevertheless, if you’re always on the go, getting the right shoes for walking all day will be a lifesaver.
In this article, you’ll find the best pair of walking shoes that provide maximum comfort all day long.
How to pick the best shoes for walking all-day
When scouting for comfortable all-day walking footwear for both men and women, there are several things to keep in mind
- Go for a reasonably priced shoe that provides the most comfort within your budget.
- Ensure the shoes provide complete support for your feet type; there are walking shoes that suit people with high arches, and those with low ones.
- Of course, you want to go for a shoe that’s visually appealing and can go with whatever outfit you decide to put on.
- You also have to think of shoe care. Make sure to pick footwear that won’t give you a tough time when cleaning.
What are the best overall walking shoes?
The Allbirds Tree Dashers is the best female shoe for long walks as it provides maximum feet comfort for all types of wearers. Plus, it’s pocket-friendly, durable, attractive, easy to wash, and offers enough grip while walking on any kind of surface.
For guys, you wouldn’t want to do without the Adidas Ultra Boost 4.0 DNA because of its all-in-one attributes. Though not too cheap compared to others, it’s easy to wash, attractive, durable, and gives good traction.
Eight best all-day walking shoes for women
Want to check out other shoes to weigh your options? Here are the top eight female shoes for walking all day.
Brooks Adrenaline GTS 22 – $140
The Brooks Adrenaline GTS 22 women’s walking shoes come with a sufficient pad that makes the heels comfortable. Though its appearance might seem unpleasant to the eyes, its texture outruns its looks. The cushioning is also quite good and it provides excellent support for your feet.
Pros
- The insoles and sock liners give maximum comfort.
- They have attractive designs and come in varieties of colors
- Gives total Support to your entire foot.
Cons
- Designed with Soles that are a bit slippery.
- The soles make squeaky sounds when rubbed against the floor, which is a turn-off for some people.
Vionic Kiara Pro Sneakers – $140
You can wear the Vionic Kiara Pro sneakers all day without complications. The Vionic sneakers have a footbed that is wrapped in microfiber that gives the foot extra comfort. It comes with a slip-resistant outsole for added safety and traction when walking or running.
Vionic Kiara Pro has an upper made of synthetic leather and mesh. It also features a breathable lining to keep your feet dry and comfortable.
Pros
- Returns energy to the foot with each step taken while absorbing shock.
- Its cushion is superior to other types of footwear.
- It comes in various colors that catch attention.
- Perfect for those who walk long distances.
Cons
- Sometimes, its long tongue rubs in steps, causing discomfort.
- Not suitable for people with wide feet.
- The underfoot is slightly stiff.
- The outer sole is made of rubber which reduces its durability.
The Brooks Addiction Walker 2 – $130
The Brooks Addiction Walker 2 is a terrific option for those with flat feet thanks to its superb support and cushioning. An extended diagonal rollbar offers maximum support and adjusts any overpronation, which is frequent among persons with low arches. The full-length midsole cushioning also provides a soft feel while also delivering exceptional energy return and responsiveness.
The shoe has a roomy fit and comes in a wide range of widths, so you can also use them with orthotics or insoles. The Brooks Addiction Walker 2 is a great option for anybody who spends a lot of time standing or walking, and it’s both adaptable and sturdy. Sizes 7 to 15 are available, and they’re available in both black and white.
Pros
- The slip-resistant sole provides excellent support
- Available in a range of widths
- Very durable
- Stylish
Cons
- May run small
- Limited color choices
Atoms zero drop shoes – $140
The atom sneakers are designed with laces that help provide extra grip on the feet. It also has a plastic embedded in its sole that provides the main support. Its stretchy upper material is designed to accommodate larger feet. The interesting part here is that different persons with different feet sizes can make use of one pair of shoes.
Pros
- Gives total Support to your entire foot.
- The insoles and sock liners give maximum comfort.
- They have attractive designs and come in varieties of colors
Cons
- Designed with Soles that are a bit slippery.
- The soles make squeaky sounds when rubbed against the floor, which is a turn-off for some people.
New balance fresh foam 1080v11 – $65
These pairs of shoes are well known for their lightweight. It comes with a netting in the front part that makes it breathable and comfortable on toe bumps. The 800v11 version is one of the best running shoes in the market.
Pros
- They have attractive designs and come in varieties of colors
- Gives total Support to your entire foot.
- Provides enough space in front for a wide foot
Cons
- Soles that are a bit slippery.
- Soles also make squeaky sounds when rubbed against the floor.
Asics Gel-Venture 7 – $93
Asics Gel-Venture 7 is a supportive shoe that gives outstanding steadiness and mastery for individuals with flat feet. It comes with a rubber sole that is quite durable and is also very flexible, which makes it easy to move around in them.
Pros
- Have a low carbon footprint
- Very lightweight with upper mesh that allows penetration of breeze that keeps the feet cool and dry.
- Made with a flexible material that keeps blisters away from the feet.
Cons
- Does not give a firm grip when walking on rugged terrain thereby causing the easy slip.
- Does not offer enough support as any other footwear type.
Allbirds Tree Dashers – Best Overall Women’s Shoes For Walking All Day – $98
This pair of sneakers is a remarkable everyday walking shoe for comfort and durability. It’s made from a fabric material that can be washed using a washing machine after a long walk.
Pros
- Designed for easy wash even with a washing machine.
- Have a low carbon footprint
- Very lightweight with upper mesh that allows penetration of breeze that eliminates sweaty feet.
- Made with a flexible material that keeps blisters away from the feet.
- Very flexible with an attribute to give the feet an attractive look.
Cons
- Does not offer enough support as any other footwear type.
- Does not give a firm grip when walking on rugged terrain thereby causing the easy slip.
Hoka Arahi 4 – $130
These shoes are appropriate for making steady movements from a walk to a jog to a run and back. It is designed with a footbed that contains foam and still looks stylishly small.
Pros
- Energy is returned to the foot when any step is taken while absorbing shock.
- Its cushion is more superior to other types of footwear.
- It comes in various colors that catch attention.
- It’s more appropriate for those who walk long distances.
Cons
- Its long tongue may sometimes rub in steps, making it inconvenient for the wearers.
- Some find this shoe to be too narrow.
- The underfoot is slightly stiff.
- The outer sole is made of rubber that does not give it durability.
Eight best all day walking shoes for men
Skechers Men’s arch fit – $90
This lightweight shoe comes with a cushion that keeps your feet comfortable. This comfort is obtained whether on the go or while standing all day. Its footbed comes with anti-bacterial odor control that will keep you fresh and clean.
The upper of this shoe has been made from mesh which provides breathability and moisture-wicking properties. The outsole of these shoes is designed to provide traction and durability.
Pros
- Comes with a bamboo-lined footbed that minimizes odor with its antibacterial effect.
- Designed in numerous colors to match your outing attire.
- Comes with a soft footbed to soothe the feet.
Cons
- Not as strong and long-lasting as other footwear options.
- Insoles can be very thin for some people.
Orthofeet orthopedic Walking Shoes – $135
This particular footwear as the name implies helps to soothe pains felt on the feet by the users. The soft cushion in the shoe is designed to provide additional comfort to people with chronic foot pain.
Pros
- The padded insoles and sock liners give maximum comfort.
- Gives total Support to your entire foot.
- They have attractive designs and come in varieties of colors
Cons
- The soles make squeaky sounds when rubbed against the floor, which is a turn-off for some people
- Designed with Soles that are a bit slippery.
Skechers Men’s Segment The Search Loafer
The Segment The Search Loafer by Skechers is another fantastic shoe. Comfortable shoe fans have turned to Skechers for years for one good reason – they get it.
You’ll feel like you’re walking on air thanks to the memory-foam cushioning in these sneakers. This shoe’s midsole provides excellent cushioning and a comfortable fit with each stride.
Getting this shoe on and off is a breeze thanks to the pull-on hook at the very end. The elastic goring makes it easy to move about in these sneakers. This offers more flexibility.
Pros:
- Gel-infused, memory foam insole cushioning
- Pull-on technology
- Elastic goring
- High cushioning
Con:
- Not true to size (order ½ a size down)
Asics Gel Kayano 26
The Asics Gel Kayano 26 is one of the best shoes for flat feet and are appropriate if you have a bowed leg. These shoes also support running as well since they contain gel cushions that give stability while walking.
This particular footwear goes for $93 on Amazon.
Pros
- The insoles and sock liners give maximum comfort.
- They have attractive designs and come in varieties of colors
- Gives total Support to your entire foot.
Cons
- The soles make squeaky sounds when rubbed against the floor, which is a turn-off for some people.
- Designed with Soles that are a bit slippery.
Loom Sneakers For Men – $249
Loom understands how to show up. The Loom sneakers for men are one of the best because they are comfortable, stylish, and durable.
Those who made Loom’s shoes took all of the basic aspects from your favorite hiking boots and waterproof walking shoes as well as your favorite work boots, trainers, and slippers. Then they put them all together to make a comfortable shoe for you to wear every day.
These shoes have TrexFit four-layer technology. First, there’s the H2-GO layer on top, which helps keep your feet dry all day long. Next, is the inner, which is lined with Loomwear Merino Wool to keep the inside of the shoe cooler. It also keeps the shoe smell-free.
Then, there’s a layer that you won’t find on many walking shoes. There is a cushion made of Merino Wool that prevents the sweat from accumulating at the bottom. This is very similar to how waterproof walking shoes work.
The outsole is made of Excelcast, which was made by professionals to keep all the shocks and impacts to a minimum while giving the shoes great traction.
Pros
- Comfortable and lightweight
- Breathable and flexible
- Double Merino Wool Lining
- High performance
- Slip-resistant
Cons
- Only two colors available
Rockport Men’s Eureka Walking Shoe – $62
When it comes to comfort and style, the Rockport Men’s Walking Shoe is the best of both worlds. Extra cushioning in the midsole, collars, and tongue of the shoe provides stability for the feet.
The shoes’ removable innersole provides the maximum comfort and adaptability that today’s modern men want. Wearing the shoes for a long period of time while walking does not cause any discomfort.
Pros
- Rockport Eureka is a well-designed and robust surface that goes well with numerous outfits.
- It is constructed of high-quality imported materials and may be used for a long period.
- The inner lining is made of mesh fabric to keep your feet cool and dry even after walking all day.
- Soft insole with latex foam reinforcement provides ample cushioning, great fit, and maintains good posture.
Cons
- The top leather isn’t supple enough and doesn’t appear like full-grain leather.
- The tow width is narrow and may be an issue for people with wide feet
Adidas ultra boost 4.0 DNA – Best Men’s Shoes For Walking All Day – $190
This pair is made with a stretch upper layer that’s light in weight which helps to enhance mobility. These shoes when worn give a springy feel on the feet just like most Adidas cloud foam comfort sneakers.
Pros
- They have attractive designs and come in varieties of colors
- The insoles and sock liners give maximum comfort.
- Gives total Support to your entire foot.
Cons
- The soles make squeaky sounds when rubbed against the floor, which is a turn-off for some people.
- Designed with Soles that are a bit slippery.
Hoka One One Bondi 7 sneakers – $160
This pair of sneakers is well cushioned and designed with a thick outsole to give you a comfortable walking experience. The shoe is designed with an outstanding midsole, air penetrating material and with extra soft collar to soothe your heels.
Pros
- They have attractive designs and come in varieties of colors
- Gives total Support to your entire foot.
- The sock liners and removable insole give maximum comfort.
Cons
- Designed with Soles that are a bit slippery.
- The soles make squeaky sounds when rubbed against the floor, which is a turn-off for some people.
Five best ways to know comfortable walking shoes
Get shoes with little spaciousness in the toe box
It’s very important to look out for shoes with little roominess around the toe box to allow free movement of the toes. The toe box is that section of the shoe that houses the toes. It gives the feet more comfort if the toes have sufficient space to freely twitch.
Having excess space in the toe box can result in too much shifting of the toes that can result in discomfort.
Ensure the shoe’s midsole is made of foamy material
The midsole of the shoe is the region between the upper part of the shoe and the heels. When acquiring a shoe, it’s best to the midsole with your hands to make sure it’s made of cushion materials. This foamy material provides comfort on the mid-region of the feet.
Check for the shoes ability to allow air passage
When walking or running, there’s a tendency for the individual heartbeat rate to increase, thereby making the feet sweat slightly.
It’s therefore important to get shoes with materials that allow passage of air when purchasing footwear. Shoes that trap moisture can result in painful blisters and discomfort.
Acquire shoes with firm gripping outsoles
The outsoles of a shoe are that part of the shoe that comes in direct contact with the ground. When getting shoes, it’s advisable to go for footwear whose soles are capable of gripping the ground solidly. This will help reduce the rate at which an individual is likely to slip and fall when walking.
Shoes with quality insoles
Getting shoes with standard insoles is of great importance when acquiring footwear. Your feet should feel comfortable when walking in such shoes and the shoes should have good shock-absorbing quality.
Having looked at proper ways of knowing comfortable shoes, let me take you through the proper ways to try on shoes.
Proper steps to trying on footwear during the purchase
- Before going to purchase footwear, it’s important to know your shoe size measurement. This helps you to easily pick out an appropriate shoe without having to keep trying different ones on.
- It is important to find out if there is enough space in the toe box by wiggling the toes. The space between the guest’s toe tip and toe box wall should not exceed or be below an inch.
- If you have flat feet and muscle joint issues, you should emphasize controlling their movements.
- When you finally sight footwear that best suits you, it’s mandatory to walk around the store in the shoes. This is to make you get accustomed to the shoes.
Frequently asked questions (FAQs)
Should walking shoes be heavy or light?
A walking shoe should be lightweight and flexible enough to allow the foot to move freely. A heavy shoe can cause blisters, muscle fatigue, or cramps in the feet. The best shoes are those that feel comfortable and light from the first day you wear them.
How often should I replace my walking shoes?
Walking footwear should be replaced once every six months if you walk for about 30 minutes a day. However, if you’re heavily built, then you should consider replacing your shoes every six months.
Can I use walking shoes in the gym?
You can use walking shoes in the gym as long as it gives you enough comfort and it helps you move freely.
Can women use walking shoes meant for men and vice versa?
As a woman, you can use walking shoes meant for a man, as long as it fits properly. A man can also use women’s walking shoes, as long as it fits properly.
Conclusion
Walking all day can be stressful, especially when done for a long distance and long hours. This is why it’s important to put on footwear that’ll reduce stress thereby giving some comfort to the feet. You should note that some brands of shoes come in different categories. The different categories of these brands bring about the difference in prices.