Top 5 Best Walking Shoes in 2024

Finding a fashionable yet comfortable sneaker that can take you from a museum to a Michelin-starred restaurant can feel like an endless task. However, the Travel + Leisure staff is putting forth a lot of effort to find you the perfect match.

It’s the worst way to tell if shoes are comfortable when you’re ready to wear them on vacation and wind up with blisters and sore feet. Our editors have tested more than 100 types of shoes to find the most comfortable ones for long walks. View our recommended matches below.

Last update on 2024-12-26 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon.

Our Top Picks

Top 5 Best Walking Shoes in 2025

1:Adidas Cloudfoam Pure 2.0 Running Shoes

Last update on 2024-12-26 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon.

Even though we never wore socks with the Cloudfoams, they lived up to their name during our testing process because they were exceptionally comfortable and lightweight. They even gave our long, hilly city treks and park routes more bounce without irritating or causing foot pain. The flexible top gives a smooth, cradled feel, even on slightly larger feet. They haven’t faded or become odorous even after extensive use. We were quite impressed with their reasonable price tag and discovered that they were more comfy than shoes that cost three times as much. Furthermore, Cloudfoams come in more than 20 colours and designs, so you might discover the perfect one for your journey.clothing, and at least half of the materials used to make them are recycled. Although they can be challenging to dress up, they look fantastic during the day.

2: Nike Motiva Walking Shoes

Last update on 2024-12-26 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon.

Although the Nike Motiva’s oversized rocker on the outsole initially seemed a little odd, it soon became the reason we adore them. After we got acclimated to it, we discovered that the rocker, or bent sole, really helps the wearer move ahead. Together with effective cushioning and dependable arch support, the rocker made us feel as though we could walk in them indefinitely. Although they are a little heavier than moon shoes, the soles’ springiness and bounce-back were comparable to those of moon shoes during testing. They are also incredibly flexible and bendable. The finest feature is the wide range of hues available, which includes traditional black or white, subdued blush, vibrant scarlet, and more.

3: Allbirds Couriers Everyday Sneakers

Last update on 2024-12-26 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon.

We wore these Allbirds trainers to work, on errands and on walks since we were so happy with how comfortable they were. They were supportive from the time of delivery and there was no rubbing or break-in period. We love its thick, cushioning, and supporting sole, which we think is perfect for folks who are constantly on their feet or for vacations that require a lot of walking. Their soft midsole is ideal for those who want their trainers to have more arch support.

We did observe that these shoes get dirty rapidly and that stains can be hard to remove. Because the fabric also shows some wear and tear if you rub at the material too hard, we recommend washing them.

4: Asics Gel-Nimbus 25

Last update on 2024-12-26 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon.

Before we had the opportunity to try on the Asics Gel-nimbus 25 trainers, we had heard about their well-known cushioning. When we eventually got a chance to try them on, the trainers surpassed our expectations. In addition to providing a great deal of comfort and padding around the foot, the toe box was remarkably large, the curved soles helped us go forward, and our heels never came off. Due to the shoes’ exceptional shock absorption, we felt that every step and landing was gentle after weeks of use and walking over a range of terrains. We also love that they come in more than twenty different colour options.

5: On Women’s Cloud 5 Sneakers

Last update on 2024-12-26 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon.

We were impressed by how nicely these supported people with high arches when we first slid them on. Our degree of flexibility was the second thing we noticed. Our toes can move freely without feeling constrained, but the shoes are still snug enough to stay on during intense sports. What did we notice as the third thing? The virtually nonexistent break-in period is a major selling point for people who regularly suffer from plantar fasciitis or foot pain. We continued to have no blisters, sores, or discomfort after a few days of use. We also appreciate these shoes’ superior breathability, ankle support, shock absorption, and cushioning. Purchase these in more than 40 distinct solids and colours.

What to Look for When Buying a Best Walking Shoes in 2024

When buying the best walking shoes in 2024, consider the following factors to ensure comfort, durability, and performance:

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1. Comfort and Fit

• Arch Support: Look for shoes that match your arch type (high, medium, or flat).
• Toe Box: Ensure it’s wide enough to allow natural toe movement.
• Heel Fit: A snug heel counter prevents slipping and provides stability.
• Sizing: Shoes should have about a thumb’s width of space at the front.

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2. Cushioning

• Midsole: Opt for lightweight and shock-absorbing materials like EVA foam or gel.
• Heel Cushioning: Provides extra comfort for longer walks and reduces impact.
• Forefoot Cushioning: Helps with smooth transitions and reduces pressure.

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3. Support and Stability

• Motion Control: For overpronators (those whose feet roll inward).
• Neutral Support: For those with a natural gait.
• Stability Features: Look for firm heel counters and midfoot support for better alignment.

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4. Weight

• Lightweight shoes reduce fatigue during extended walks without sacrificing support.

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5. Sole Design

• Outsole: Durable rubber or synthetic materials with good traction to prevent slips.
• Flexibility: The sole should bend easily at the ball of the foot for natural movement.
• Heel-to-Toe Drop: A low drop (4–8mm) provides better alignment and comfort.

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6. Breathability

• Upper Material: Mesh or knit fabrics allow airflow to keep your feet cool and dry.
• Moisture-Wicking Lining: Helps manage sweat and prevents odors.

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7. Durability

• Shoes should withstand regular wear and tear; reinforced stitching and high-quality materials add longevity.

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8. Style and Aesthetics

• Modern walking shoes often combine function with fashion, so you can choose designs that suit your taste for casual or athletic use.

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9. Intended Use

• Daily Walks: Lightweight and breathable shoes for comfort.
• Long-Distance Walking: Shoes with extra cushioning and durability.
• Uneven Terrain: Opt for shoes with rugged outsoles and additional stability features.

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10. Brand Reputation and Reviews

• Trusted brands like Brooks, Asics, New Balance, Skechers, or Hoka offer high-quality walking shoes with proven performance.

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11. Price Range

• Quality walking shoes typically range from $60 to $150. Higher-priced models often include advanced features like premium cushioning and better durability.

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12. Try Before You Buy

• Walk around in the shoes to test for fit, comfort, and support.
• Shop later in the day when your feet are slightly swollen to ensure a true fit.

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13. Special Features

• Waterproofing: For wet weather conditions.
• Orthotic Compatibility: Removable insoles allow custom orthotics for better support.
• Reflective Elements: Improve visibility for evening or early morning walks.