The Best Sneakers For Walking

The right walking shoes for every need, from speed walking to a long day at work.

When walking you need your shoes to handle that repetitive heel-to-toe rolling motion. After all, "a 150-pound woman's body encounters between 900,000 and 1,350,00 pounds of impact over a three-mile walk," says Paul Langer, DPM, author of Great Feet for Life.

So make sure your kicks are comfy and supportive—a poor fit can lead to injury. And choose ones that are secure across the instep and in the heel, but roomy enough to wiggle your toes. Here, shoes that will protect your feet whether you're fitness walking or simply commuting.

01 of 09

For everyday walking

For everyday walking
amazon.com

A cushioned heel paired with a flexible forefoot helps the Asics Gel Frequency accommodate your natural stride. Plus, the mesh upper helps keep feet cool and dry.

02 of 09

For commuting

vans-classic-slip-on-shoe
Zappos

It's no wonder the Vans Classic Slip-On is a Zappos top seller. The versatile grey slip-on goes with dresses, jeans, skirts, and more, and can easily be slipped off and stored under your desk if you need to change into something more formal for the office. Plus, with a padded collar and shock-absorbing footbed, they're ultra-comfortable and easy on the feet.

03 of 09

For speed walking

ryka-constant
Lisa Shin

With extra cushioning in heavy-wear zones (think heel and toe), the sleek Ryka Constant is perfect for fast-paced fitness walkers.

04 of 09

For distance walking

new-balance-ww1065
Amazon

The New Balance WW1065 has the style of a running shoe, but is designed for long-distance walking. The highly supportive sneaker features medial posts at the inside edge of the shoe to prevent overpronation, a common foot problem.

05 of 09

For casual walking

Sketchers Go Step
zappos.com

Not a race walker? Slip on the Skechers Go Step the cushioned sole allows for hours of comfortable walking.

06 of 09

For walking and running

adidas energy cloud
amazon.com

Why splurge on two pairs? The Adidas Energy Cloud running shoe can easily double as a walker.

07 of 09

Running errands

saucony jazz shoe
Amazon

The sleek Saucony Jazz Low Pro is available in 29 on-trend hues. Superlight nylon and shock-absorbing midsoles mean you won’t be sacrificing comfort for style.

08 of 09

Warm-weather walking

sperry top sider
Amazon

The Sperry Top-Sider Seacoast is made with breathable canvas, making it an ideal choice for leisurely walks along the beach or boardwalk.

09 of 09

Short walks

keds-quilted-shoe
zappos.com

These stylish Keds Double Decker Textured Jersey sneakers easily slip on and off, making them perfect for quick trips out of the house.

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