The Best Walking Shoes of 2024, According to Podiatrists, Fitness Instructors, and More Experts We Asked

Like a rain jacket or a good pair of jeans, walking shoes are a non-negotiable closet staple. Since walking is the body’s natural movement, you’ll want a supportive pair that’ll protect your feet and keep up with every step.

Whether you’re looking for a walking shoe perfect with a cushy toe box or something that can handle periods of walking and running equally, we’re here to help. We tapped physical therapists, board-certified podiatrists, fitness experts, and performance specialists and researched and tested dozens of walking shoes ourselves, carefully considering design, durability, fabric, and fit.

Keep reading to learn more about the best walking shoes, according to 18 experts and our own testers.

Best Overall: Hoka Women's Bondi 8

The Bondi 8 more than meets the high standards that typify Hoka's best shoes. During our testing, we found them to be the perfect weight and cushioning for walking, with a heel that's cupped perfectly and doesn't rub against your ankles. The padded heel notch helped prevent any blisters from forming during the testing period. Because of the thick sole absorption, we also would recommend these to anyone with plantar fasciitis in need of walking or running shoes.

A favorite of a virtual fitness trainer and nutritionist Vanessa Liu, this shoe provides plenty of cushioning and a grippy sole without being too bulky. Plus, Liu says it can handle a variety of surfaces, including grass, dirt, gravel, and tarmac — which we found true in our tests, despite not technically being categorized as trail shoes.

Best for Travel: Allbirds Tree Dasher 2

Since traveling can mean spending more time on your feet, comfort and weight are two top factors to consider when shopping for a walking shoe, says chiropractor and certified strength and conditioning expert Dr. Matt Tanneberg.

If you’re after shoes that are comfortable, supportive, and lightweight, add this pair to your wishlist. They are also waterproof and machine washable, making them easy to clean and maintain once you arrive home from your destination. One thing to note: If you have high arches and need more support, consider other options we tested.

Experts Say: “These shoes are great for long walks in a foreign country or city and are stylish enough to dress up or stay casual.” —Dr. Matt Tanneberg, chiropractor

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