Best Men's Shoes for Walking

Whether you're beginning a new walking regimen to stay fit or spending all day on your feet at work, having the right pair of shoes makes all the difference! As with any other physical activity, wearing the appropriate gear helps avoid injuries and makes it a more enjoyable experience for you and your feet.

When searching for a great pair of walking shoes, there are three must-have features you need to look for: comfort, support, and breathability. First, walking shoes should have an immediately comfortable step-in feel (unlike some running shoes, no break-in period is necessary). The shoes should also complement your specific foot shape (whether you have standard, narrow, flat, or wide feet) and arch (a low arch requires added stability due to overpronation, and a high arch needs more supportive cushioning to combat plantar fasciitis). For a comfy fit, your heel should feel snug while your toes should have some wiggle room (bear in mind: the thickness of the socks you wear affects the fit and comfort). Discover how to find your shoe size and fit in our guide. Next, the midsole should offer supportive cushioning to absorb ground impact, and a durable outsole is necessary to prevent slippage. Lastly, the upper should be breathable and lightweight to avoid sweating, which can lead to hot spots and blisters.

Below, we've laid out some of our favorite men's shoes that offer cushioned comfort and support for everything from power walks around the neighborhood to all-day wear at work. Note that while running shoes can be appropriate for walking, the reverse is not usually the case. With options available in an array of fun colorways and multiple widths, we hope this guide will help you find the best pair for your specific needs and preferences.

For marshmallowy comfort and plush protection mile after mile, the Bondi is a legend in the field. Bearing the title of the most cushioned shoe in HOKA's lineup, it's no surprise that this shoe is packed with features to keep your joints happy and comfy wherever you go. With a breathable upper, padded tongue, and invitingly soft step-in feel, the Bondi can extend your leisurely walk around the neighborhood or grind out a long shift at work without letting you down. As a bonus, this shoe is available in all-black, making it an appropriate option for those in the service and hospitality industries.

The ultimate comfort care package, the New Balance Fresh Foam X More offers maximum cushioning and underfoot protection, a smooth ride, and a durable outsole for excellent traction. Available in multiple widths to accommodate any foot shape, you can't go wrong slipping into a pair for your daily treks.

For a moderate cushioning option that works well for all sorts of activities, check out the Brooks Ghost. Soft, lightweight, and with a stylish design, it's no surprise the Ghost remains the most popular neutral daily performance shoe from Brooks. The Brooks Ghost is the perfect companion for cruising around town, offering reliable comfort and versatility without the bulk.

With its less-intrusive stability features, soft cushioning, and support, the Saucony Guide is your dependable daily companion. This shoe has a lightweight, breathable mesh upper that cradles your foot for a comfortable, personalized fit. Soft, smooth, and stable, the Guide will be your steady partner wherever you roam. For a comparable neutral alternative, check out the Saucony Ride.

Experience that magical feeling of walking on clouds when you lace up in the ASICS Nimbus. Whether maximising your daily steps or working an overtime shift, the Nimbus offers a comfy retreat thanks to its invitingly soft cushioning. Stylish and lightweight yet durable in its design, this shoe will keep your feet happy and protected from sunup to sundown.

The ASICS Gel Kayano provides reliable comfort and soft, supportive cushioning, making it a perfect go-to walking shoe. The midsole now features an even higher stack of FLYTEFOAM BLAST PLUS ECO than its predecessor, the Kayano 29, resulting in a more cushioned and energetic ride. In place of a traditional post, a highly responsive foam piece is embedded in the medial side of the midsole. This helps get overpronators back into an optimal running position as fast as possible while offering a non-intrusive ride that even neutral runners can enjoy.