Best Walking Shoes of 2024 When comparing walking and running for fat loss, walking emerges as the superior choice due to its lower-impact nature. Despite being gentler on the body, walking can still cause strain, making it crucial to find shoes that facilitate a comfortable and strain-free walking experience. Comfortable walking shoes are essential when beginning your fitness journey. A high-quality walking shoe is not only vital for walking but also beneficial for various other exercises. The best walking shoes should be cushioned, offer adequate stability, and be lightweight and breathable. Here are some top recommendations to consider for initiating your fitness journey.
ASICS Gel-Cumulus 26 Running Shoe
Whether you prefer walking or running, Asics shoes are regarded as top performers. They offer exceptional cushioning, with gel-infused foam for enhanced shock absorption, and a padded back tab at the heel for added comfort and ankle stability. With their lightweight construction and sleek design, these shoes are suitable for all-day wear.
Hoka Clifton 9
These shoes are among the best options for both running and walking, as confirmed by testers. “They felt immediately comfortable from the first wear,” reported one tester, who also noted that they “don’t flare up my plantar fasciitis and my feet feel actively supported during long periods of exercise.
” Testers awarded these shoes perfect scores for their comfortable cushioning, with many declaring them their new go-to pair. One analyst from the GH Institute wears these shoes regularly on walks due to their excellent cushioning and support. “These shoes put a spring in my step,” remarked a tester who used them on both treadmills and road walks.
On Cloud 5
This shoe is one of the lightest available and an excellent choice for running enthusiasts. It allows for an easy transition from traditional laces to a slip-on design. Engineered for soft landings without a bulky foam midsole, this pair features the brand’s CloudTec cushioning. Testers reported that these shoes are easy to put on, with many highlighting their lightweight feel.
“I like the flexible design of the sole, which allows the shoe to be more responsive to whatever is underfoot,” said one tester. He added, “They have a great look and feel very sturdy on my foot!” However, some testers noted that due to their high flexibility, these shoes may not provide sufficient support for all users.
New Balance Fresh Foam X 1080 V13 Running Shoe
This New Balance pair is available in wide and extra-wide sizes to prevent crowding. They also feature a stretchy knit upper that helps avoid pinching around bunions. Offering the thickest cushioning compared to other available shoes, this pair received perfect scores for fit, comfort, and cushioning from testers who logged over 60 hours walking in them.
“I find myself reaching for this pair over all my other running and walking shoes whenever I leave home,” reported one tester. Another tester stated, “I felt like it gave me a boost on long walks and hill work. My feet felt less tired, and it definitely gives a spring to my step.” Another tester described them as “very lightweight and breathable.”
ALTRA VIA Olympus 2 Road Running Shoe
If you’re a fitness walker looking to invest in comfortable shoes, these Altra sneakers are worth considering. The rocker design is ideal for walkers as it helps propel you forward. This model features thicker, lightweight cushioning compared to Altra’s other offerings while maintaining the brand’s signature zero heel drop design. “I really like the natural toe-box shape, which helps my foot relax and push off my toe,” said one tester.
Another added, “They are extremely comfortable and cushion my feet,” and noted, “I do not experience pain with them after 12 hours, which can happen with other shoes I wear.” All testers rated the shoes highly for comfort, with many noting the soft foam. However, some did not favor the appearance, and at 9.6 ounces, the shoes are relatively heavy.
