The 17 Best Walking Shoes to Wear Wherever You Go (2024)

Retro design meets modern enhancement in this Nike sneaker. Nike Air soles provide the comfort; 10 multitone colorways and wavy side panels bring the flair. No wonder Bieber was recently spotted with this pair in her sneaker collection.

Sizes: 6–15

Materials: Foam, rubber

What reviewers are saying: “Great for everyday use very comfortable and stylish at the same time.”

“Own several pairs, they feel wonderful on foot, so comfortable and not to heavy but not to light. Solid materials and great styling. I appreciate the way the colors are balanced and each bring a different tone to the shoe that brings the shoe together. For those that like a flashy shoe there’s good colorway options and also some solid colorways for those who desire a plain shoe. Overall, these are must by, the shoe is durable and is versatile with the wardrobe!”

By now, I’ve seen enough celebrity street-style moments to know the Adidas Samba can be worn in so many different settings and moods. It wasn’t until I started walking around New York City in my own pair that I realized how comfortable they are. These are a low-key excellent walking shoe that doesn’t compromise on style—and with dozens of color combinations restocked, I could wear a different pair each day of the week.

Sizes: 5–15

Materials: Suede, rubber

What reviewers are saying: “Stylishness and comfort. I can walk in them all day and look good.”

“Beautiful and comfortable piece. I can wear them for long hours.”

APL’s fan-favorite TechLoom sneakers save you time worrying about which walking (and running) shoes will hold up during your workout. These have an elastic, seamless design that glides on to your foot and stays there for however you choose to move. They’re also incredibly lightweight—you’ll feel like you’re walking on clouds.

Sizes: 5–11

Material: Rubber, mesh

What reviewers are saying: “I love the APL Breeze! They are incredibly comfortable and stylish. They can be worn casually without looking too athletic and feel equally as good wearing them to the gym. I don’t feel the same about their other styles but this one is a winner.”

No walking shoe looks or feels more state-of-the-art than On’s. This pair is outfitted for walking miles in comfort, with On’s distinctive lightweight foam soles, breathable mesh uppers, and a molded sole to support your heel. The material is also waterproof, so the forecast will never get in the way of staying comfortable.

Sizes: 5–11

Material: Mesh, recycled material

As much as I like to wear sneakers absolutely everywhere, they’re not always the most comfortable or warm choice during the winter. That’s where this pair of Marion Parke Chelsea boots comes in. Designed by a former podiatric surgeon, Marion Parke’s boots have a proprietary insole that stabilizes and protects the foot. These details are key for cold days spent on your feet, whether you're visiting with family or wrapping up some holiday shopping.

Sizes: 35–42 IT

Material: Leather, rubber

A supportive, treaded sole, a removable padded insole, and a patchwork pattern that coordinates with my Jackie bag: This pair of Gucci sneakers is the must-have choice for making every step look and feel like luxury.

Sizes: 4–10

Materials: Textile and leather upper, textile lining, synthetic sole

What reviewers are saying: “Goes with everything. Very true to size. I wear a 7.5 but usually an 8 in a sneaker so that I can wear socks. I got an 8 and probably could have had a 7.5 and been fine. The pattern of the fabric has different GG symbols in a very subtle way. I used scotch guard to protect the white fabric. These shoes are really special and comfortable.”

“I own 3 pairs of Gucci Tennis Shoes and these are by my FAVORITE pair! They’re the most comfortable and I love the color combinations!!!”

When I have a 10,000-step day ahead but I don’t want an overly athletic look, I’ll always return to my Converse low-tops. This classic design has lasted in my wardrobe for over a decade; the latest iteration of the sneaker will last even longer, thanks to its addition of a memory-foam sole.

Sizes: 5–13

Materials: Canvas, rubber

What reviewers are saying: “I’ve only worn these a couple times now but they are super comfortable! I had a pair a couple years ago that I wore so much they ripped at the seam after years of wear. These are even better! They have a great cushion in the bottom that is so comfortable!”

“I absolutely love Converse All Star sneakers! They’re not only a timeless classic but also incredibly comfortable for everyday wear. The versatile design and variety of colors make them a perfect choice for any casual outfit.”

Nike’s designers understand that your foot strikes the ground differently when you walk (or power walk) versus when you run. Released earlier in 2023, the Motiva has a chunky rocker sole that eases the impact of your foot’s heel-to-toe forward motion at a walking pace. Then when you’re ready to jog or run, the outsoles and insoles are designed to cushion and support your foot through higher intensities.

“In designing Motiva, we really went after removing distractions, addressing the discomfort that can go along with how you feel both during and after an activity,” Nike researcher Dr. Emily Farina said at the Motiva’s release. “The result is a shoe that can help reduce disruptions in your stride to make moving feel smoother[.]” I agree that it works, after wearing it for several walks around New York City.

Sizes: 5–12

Material: Foam, lightweight fabric

What reviewers say: “I recently tried out the Nike Motiva Walking Shoes with a sleek design, and they definitely exceeded my expectations in comfort and style. When wearing them for my daily walk I noticed a cloud-like cushioning that provided excellent support for my feet. They were comfortable for my workout and then straight to running errands!”

“These are a great pair of shoes that make you feel like you are walking on air. As someone who deals with back pain, I am always looking for a pair of athletic shoes that are easy on my lower back. These shoes are fantastic and unlike anything I’ve worn before. The first time you put them on, you almost feel like you are rocking in them. After you get used to them, you immediately notice how the shoes are designed to take the pressure off of your pain points. And as a bonus, they look great! I’ve received multiple compliments from others on my new shoes. I do believe I’ve found a pair of shoes I intend to wear for a long time.”

When you’re logging miles on a cross-country trip or a trail deep in the woods, pull on these sneakers recommended by Hana Kajimura, head of sustainability at Allbirds. “I find that when I’m traveling, I want one pair of shoes that can work for exploring a city or working out,” she says.

They’re water-repellent for rainy days and versatile for all weather: Kajimura wears them with hiking gear and everyday cropped denim alike. The treaded soles offer extra traction for uneven and slippery terrain as well.

Sizes: 5–11

Materials: Wool, bio-based foam

Weight: 9.99 ounces

Heel drop: 7 mm

What reviewers say: “This is a great option for a good sturdy foot bed and traction. It’s breathable but has a good toe reinforcement that the other shoes don’t have.”

“For the first time in years, I have no pain in my feet. And I love the style.”

Hoka’s Clifton sneakers are a cult favorite among walkers and runners. Recently, the brand updated its signature style to be even more comfortable and supportive on long walks. The upper gently hugs your foot with the same lightweight feel of past editions—but this time, it weighs even less and the heel is more plush. Wearing the Clifton 9 sneakers feels like you’re walking on cotton candy, down to the dreamy pastel colorways.

Sizes: 5–12, in regular and wide versions

Materials: Recycled polyester

Weight: 7.30 ounces

Heel drop: 5 mm

What reviewers say: “Out of the box hit! I am a heavy footed walker and these were like walking on a cloud. I had no pain at the end of the day. Love!!!”

“I use these shoes for workouts at the gym, long walks in the park. They are very comfortable and cute. I receive compliments. Comfort is very important to me and these shoes have great cushion.”

Fashion insiders are not-so-secretly fans of the Birkenstock walking shoe. Even Manolo Blahnik wears the brand’s sandals. While Birkenstock’s flashier designer collaborations sell out quickly, a solid pair of its original Arizona sandals makes a reliable, and easily available, walking sandal. (You wouldn't want to log dozens of miles in a delicate velvet slide, anyway.)

The essential Arizona slide is waterproof, shockproof, and won’t irritate your skin—with a molded footbed your feet will appreciate. It’s a beach shoe and an everywhere shoe, if you want it to be.

Sizes: 4–12.5

Materials: Molded EVA

What reviewers say: “So comfortable, better support than I expected, and easy to wash. These are great for walking the dog, running errands, and doing yard work.”

“I’ve never worn Birkenstocks before. These are pretty comfortable... a little stiff but that was expected because of the synthetic material. Love that they are waterproof! I wear a 9 1/2 in just about any shoe. I ordered these in the size 9 and they fit perfectly! Love that they are as easy as a flip flop but offer more support.”

Golden Goose’s distressed look is maybe a little polarizing—but if you love them, you love them. More importantly for women on the move, these leather sneakers are comfortable enough to stomp around the city in for an entire day. (The legions of Golden Goose fans on TikTok will agree.)

Sizes: 5–12

Materials: Leather

What reviewers say: “They are so well made–pretty sure I will be keeping these for a while.”

“I was hesitant to purchase a pair of Golden Goose sneakers initially, but now I’m so glad I did. They required virtually no breaking in period right from my first wear, and they’re already conforming to the shape of my feet. I can tell the quality of the leather is stellar, and the silver styling is classic and versatile; dressed up or casual. If you’re on the fence, don’t be! Buy these, you won’t regret it. 👍🏼 ”

Carbon38’s founder goes to these Veja sneakers for all of her walks. They have a supportive structure and a delicious cream palette. A bonus you can’t see? The upper and sole are made of a mixture of recycled materials and bio-based alternatives to more harmful materials. Reviewers on other sites add that Veja sneakers only get more comfortable with each wear.

Sizes: 5–10

Materials: Recycled polyester, plant-based sole

Weight: 10.6 ounces

Heel drop: 10 mm

What reviewers say: “I love the Veja brand, their ethics, their mission, their style so I bought these on a whim to see if I liked their feel and fit. I was so delightfully surprised! They are so light weight, supportive, cute, and comfortable!”

Street-style icons like Bieber and Laura Harrier can’t stop wearing the New Balance 550s. But Bieber has another pair of New Balances that make even better walking shoes: the 574 V2. This pair comes backed with several five-star ratings praising their comfort, range of colors, and cool vintage look. The treaded sole makes them even more suited for walking long distances.

Sizes: 5.5–12

Materials: Suede, rubber

What reviewers say: “[W]hen I put them on for the first time, I was shocked! They are so soft, light, and comfortable. Since then, I wear almost everyday. The shoes have wider toe space which makes it very comfortable. The size is a bit on the smaller side, so I’m glad I picked one size bigger than my usual. I know I will keep buying this same pair over and over for the rest of my life!”

This walking shoe, available in more than 20 different color combinations, is one of those rare Amazon finds I almost want to gatekeep. (But I won’t.) Reviewers say the entire sole cushion is comfortable, with the added bonus of extra padding along the tongue. If you’re searching for a comfortable, wear-everywhere sneaker that will arrive in an instant, this is it.

Sizes: 5–12

Materials: Mesh, rubber

Weight: 7.9 ounces

Heel drop: 11 mm

What reviewers say: “Have tried so many brand name (and even high end name) and these are the only shoes that have given me great comfort.”

“More room in the toe box than the average sneaker and way more cushion in the heel. If you have knee, hip or foot pain then get this shoe. Good support for ankle too. Move over Hoka. Ryka is just as good if not better and way way more affordable. My mother has plantar fasciitis and it has alleviated her pain so she can walk again. I highly recommend.”

I thought Lululemon’s first sneaker was worth the hype, and I’ve been even more impressed with the rollout of the label's additional shoe styles. The Chargefeel sneaker is ideal for active days that include a workout. It has a midfoot frame that cradles your foot through walks, runs, and bodyweight training. It’s springy, but not overly bouncy—and the wavy design looks so sleek.

Sizes: 5–12

Weight: 9.1 ounces

Heel drop: 9.5 mm

What reviewers say: “Probably one of the most comfortable shoes I’ve ever trained in.”

“Comfortable for walking, exercising or just being on your feet for long hours.”

Here’s a walking shoe for those who prefer streamlined, minimalistic shoes to chunkier athletic styles. Koio’s leather sneakers are beloved for their clean, responsibly sourced leather and subtly cushioned insoles for all-day wear. Across more than 1,400 online reviews, shoppers are impressed by this sneaker’s versatility and comfort above all. This sleek design looks just as good with leggings and a sports bra for Pilates class as it does for exploring a European city in a sundress. (And it’s ranked as one of Bazaar’s best leather sneakers as well.)

Sizes: 5–11

Materials: Leather, 100% rubber sole, removable OrthoLite Hybrid insole

Weight: 1 pound

What reviewers say: “This pair from Koio is 100% worth the price—they’re impeccably made, and the leather is beautiful.”

“Only had these two weeks and they are by far the most comfortable shoe I’ve purchased in years. Received tons of compliments.”

If you’re spending an entire day on your feet, the best walking shoes are only the start of what you’ll need. Other gear you should consider for a day of comfort include:

• Breathable and moisture-wicking base layers, like a matching workout set from Nike, Alo Yoga, or Girlfriend Collective
• Comfortable socks
• An extra layer (or two!) like a windbreaker or crewneck sweater
• Sunscreen with a high SPF