The 20 best walking shoes for men

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ByRachel Cavanaugh and Rachel Bar-Gadda

When you've got a lot of walking to do, your selection of footwear can really make or break your excursion. The best walking shoes for men have extra flexibility and cushioning to give your feet room to move and prevent them from tiring out.

Pliable uppers will help with the flexibility part of it. Look for features like knit or mesh fabric to prevent your feet from feeling too constricted when you walk. Cushioning-wise, you'll want to opt for EVA foam or a similarly shock-absorbing material in the midsoles to reduce foot fatigue.

In addition to flexibility and cushioning, shoes for walking need to offer temperature management. This is achieved through things like breathable fabric or mesh panels on the uppers to increase ventilation. Along the same lines, you'll want moisture-managing features like sweat-wicking sock-liners or quick-drying footbeds to keep perspiration under control. As a bonus, these components can help with odor-management, too.

Lastly, you'll want to consider the soles, as walking shoes need to provide exceptional traction and grip. This comes in the form of sturdy rubber material and a distinct tread pattern with thicker lugs.

Now that you have a better sense of what to look for, take a look at the best walking shoes for men below.

01

The all-around option

The over 40,000 reviews on Amazon say it all for this highly rated casual cross-trainer. Made of leather with EVA foam that offers flexibility but also provides firmness for stability, these sneakers feature a shock-absorbing midsole that lowers impact through a combination of compression resistance and support. Choose from three widths (regular, wide, and X-wide) for a more custom fit as well as 11 different colors like classic white, black, and chocolate brown.

Helpful Review: “This shoe fits me like a glove and almost feels like an extension of my foot. Your mileage may vary. But for me, the perfect fit and well-designed rubber sole provide stability and comfort, whether I was walking down the road, or hiking on the trail.”

  • Available sizes: 6.5 – 18 (wide and extra-wide available)

02

The trail-walking shoes

For hitting the adventuresome terrain of the trail, this trekking shoe has everything you need to feel confident and comfortable. Fitted with a durable rubber outsole, this shoe will grip the ground even in wet weather conditions, on top of boasting a winterized design with patented synthetic insulation for warmth. A molded sock-liner and light EVA foam midsole offer cushioning and a blended mesh and synthetic upper provide good breathability. They come available in 7 different rugged colors.

Helpful Review: “I needed shoes for every type of terrain from paved walkways to dirt paths to walking on rocks and also waterproof. I was not disappointed, these shoes passed every test. My socks did not get wet once and it rained a lot! And the grip walking on slippery rocks was outstanding, I felt confident with every step.”

  • Available sizes: 6 – 15

03

The knit Oxfords

These comfortable walking shoes are made with lightweight, breathable knit fabric that offers flexibility, along with ventilation so your feet don't get too hot. Not only that, but they're supportive, too, thanks to the EVA foam midsoles and soft, well-cushioned footbeds (that are completely removable). The sock-liners boast BioDeWix dry mesh, which is specifically designed to help reduce odors, and the beveled heel-toe system encourages balanced walking. Due to their large variety of sizing, they make some of the best walking shoes for wide feet — and they're available in seven colors.

Helpful Review: "Very comfortable shoe and am getting compliments every time I wear them."

  • Available sizes: 7 — 16 (regular and wide)

04

The versatile walking shoe

Made of 100% genuine leather nubuck, these walking shoes were designed to provide long-lasting comfort to those who move, without sacrificing style — and given their versatile look, they can be worn as casual footwear or with dressier ensembles. An interior textile-based footbed cover and moisture-wicking mesh lining keep air moving and feet cool. Shock-absorbing heel cushioning offers support and is especially great for those who regularly deal with heel pain, in addition to a footbed that also contains latex for extra comfort. Available in either dark brown/black or black, a durable rubber outsole gives you the confidence to venture outside for long walks on all kinds of terrain.

Helpful Review: “These shoes are worth every penny. They have a generous fit, but not too loose, great quality, good looks, and easily the most comfortable pair of shoes I have ever worn.”

  • Available sizes: 7 – 14 (wide available)

05

An affordable pair

These extremely lightweight sneakers come in at a price point far below other models but don’t sacrifice comfort and durability. They easily slip on to get you out the door with no delay and feature a mesh upper for extreme elasticity and breathability. An ergonomic insole design pairs with softness, giving feet a cloud-like texture to rest on. A non-slip outsole grips the ground efficiently and anti-skid grooves provide traction as well as cushioning against impact. Coming in 16 shades such as obsidian and navy, each shoe features a unique arch support design in the midfoot, perfect for sustaining you for long periods of walking.

Helpful Review: “I needed a pair of comfortable walking shoes and I saw these. The price was what really caught my eye but I was skeptical. I thought I would give it a try and had nothing to lose. Boy, was I surprised. These shoes are well made, very comfortable, and lightweight. The cushioned insoles are a plus.”

  • Available sizes: 7.5 – 14

06

The dress shoes for walking

These sleek dress shoes deceptively look like they’re only for formal events, but are in fact designed to be comfortable worn on-the-go Monday through Friday. Made of leather, they feature an ortholite footbed to both cushion impact and offer breathability through moisture-wicking material. Soft uppers provide ease of movement and stretch gore panels increase overall flexibility. Choose between several different leather finishes to make you feel prepared for just as much walking as company cocktail parties.

Helpful Review: “These shoes feel amazing after a day's wear, and I almost forgot they were on. I have gotten many compliments for the wonderful looks of these shoes, and I even decided to purchase a pair in black. Both pairs are durable and look amazing. Would recommend.”

  • Available sizes: 6.5 – 15 (wide sizes available)

07

The warm pair with a fur lining

For walking during the colder months, these lightweight hiking shoes are made with a full fur lining with removable fur insoles to keep feet comfortably warm no matter how many steps you clock on the pedometer. Ankle-high, they have an elastic upper for flexibility and a waterproof yet breathable exterior so you can venture forward despite any weather conditions. In addition to a rubber anti-collision toe cap, a durable non-slip rubber outsole grips the terrain and multi-directional lugs help prevent fatigue and provide even more traction. This pick is available in 10 colors from light brown to navy blue.

Helpful Review: “These shoes are awesome in terms of comfort while walking. Also, the fur inside the shoes is so warm that they’re perfect for winter. The sole is so strong, it seems perfect for walking on snow. Go for it!”

  • Available sizes: 6.5 – 14

08

A popular walking shoe with an EVA sockliner

Fans love this walking shoe with a super comfortable EVA foam sockliner, that feels soft and supportive the moment you put it on. It is lightweight and breathable due to a mesh upper and includes leather overlays in key places to provide stability throughout the midfoot. Compression-molded foam forms the midsole for impact absorption and a solid rubber outsole offers lasting durability. Choose from 11 colors from academy blue to mod gray.

Helpful Review: “When I first put on these running shoes, they felt as though I've already worked them in for a couple of months. They immediately molded to the contours of my foot.”

  • Available sizes: 7 – 15 (X-Wide available)

09

A walking shoe with a memory foam insole

If the footwear relationship of your dreams involves your shoe remembering specifically how your foot needs to be cushioned, then look no further than these walking shoes that sport a memory foam insole. Made of an upper that includes both mesh for breathability and leather for durability, these slip-on sneakers feature a rugged outsole with tons of grip for traction and extra support for the heel. They come offered in 12 shades of earth-toned neutrals, such as brown taupe and charcoal black.

Helpful Review: “These are very good-looking shoes that have an extremely comfortable memory foam footbed. Though these shoes are best suited for casual wear they have very nice soles that are aggressive enough to offer decent slip protection during most casual activities.”

  • Available sizes: 6.5 – 16 (X-wide available)

10

The orthopedic pair

For those who tend to require orthotics, have had foot issues in the past, or just simply want the most ergonomic shoewear available, these orthopedic walking shoes fit the bill. They come fitted with premium orthotic insoles and multiple layers of cushioning to make your foot feel fully supported. The foam insole is breathable and odor-resistant with extra heel cushioning, and you can also opt to use a removable arch booster for an even better ergonomic fit. Available in black and grey, a wide toe box reduces pressure and gives your feet room to move while stretchable uppers provide ease and flexibility.

Helpful Review: “This is probably the most comfortable shoe I have ever worn. Unlike all of the other shoes I tried, the top and sides of the shoe actually flex and hold my foot to keep them from moving and causing me blisters. Great support as well.”

  • Available sizes: 7 – 14 (wide and extra-wide available)

11

The travel shoes with a hidden pocket

If you're on the go a lot, these Sanuk Pick Pockets rank among the best walking shoes for travel. In addition to their supremely comfortable footbeds (made with high-rebound ethylene vinyl acetate), they have cool hidden pockets on the front you can use to stash cash or other small items while you're out sight-seeing. The casual slip-ons are made from lightweight, breathable fabric that's flexible and easy to compress in a suitcase. They also have embroidered ventilation openings in the tongues for extra air circulation, plus odor-absorbing insoles.

Helpful Review: "I bought these Sanuk slip ons for my husband for our Hawaii trip. Recently returned from our trip and he loved it. He said it was very comfortable even during long walks. [...] They fit perfectly! Very happy with the purchase!"

  • Available sizes: 6 —14

12

Some water-repellent walking shoes

If traversing a rainy environment is a part of your daily life, opt for these walking shoes that are designed for wet conditions. Lightweight and available in six colors, they feature a water-repellent treated upper made of durable canvas and sport suede. The insole is designed with supportive high-rebound cushioning, while the midsole boasts a proprietary injection-molded compound with memory retention for extra comfort and shock absorption. A flexible rubber outsole gives you stability and grip so you can have no fear while pounding the rain-slicked sidewalk.

Helpful Review: “I bought these for the water repellent feature and I can't get over how incredibly comfortable they are! Highly recommend.”

  • Available sizes: 7 – 16 (X-Wide available)

13

A slip-on shoe with a moisture-wicking lining

Constructed with stretchy, ultra-comfortable 3-D mesh that’s resistant to odors and wicks away moisture, these casual sneakers are a solid option for walking shoes. The easy slip-on style further enhances their walking-friendliness, as do the neoprene booties inside that boast four-way stretch for added comfort. These vegan sneakers have excellent traction, with sturdy lugs that allow you to navigate things like rocks, mud, dirt, and gravel. The quick-drying shoes come in two color choices: gunmetal and black.

Helpful Review: "Well-made shoes. Feels good for everyday use. Love the look and [quality]. I'd recommend them."

  • Available sizes: 8 — 14

14

A fashion-forward sneaker that’s great for walking

If walking comfortably is important, but doing so with a touch of style is equally so, then these fashion-forward walking shoes hit the mark. Available in 15 stylishly designed options, choose from combinations of blue camouflage and green, or black and red, to suit your personal style. The breathable knitted mesh upper keeps this shoe lightweight and your feet dry and cool. Being made with a honeycomb hole design, the insole provides shock absorption and added ventilation, while the outsole offers an anti-skid grip with great bounce-back for athletic pursuits.

Helpful Review: “Truly a gem for me......the cost, the fit, the style & most important the comfort!”

  • Available sizes: 6.5 – 13

15

A stylish pair of walking shoes with traction

This walking shoe will just as easily travel across forested trails as it will the sidewalk during day-to-day life. Available in three fashionable colors that feature earthy greens as well as a combination of bright yellow and gray, this shoe features durable rubber lugs to roam through uneven terrain and moderate ankle support. In addition, according to the brand’s website, these shoes include a lightweight EVA foam midsole for cushioned support as well as a stretchy woven fabric upper that provides flexibility and breathability.

Helpful Review: “These shoes are great! Bought these as back-ups for a recent trip out to Colorado & Utah but ended up wearing them the whole time. Spent very little time wearing them for break-in and had no issues while out on trails or at national parks.”

  • Available sizes: 6 – 15

16

Slip-on sneakers with a mesh upper

For a shoe that doesn’t stop you from getting out the door ASAP, these slip-on sneakers go on without delay and, as a bonus, are lightweight due to their mesh upper design. Offered in 12 colors of varying neutrals, the seamless and soft woven fabric offers a flexible fit and there are synthetic panel overlays in the toe and heel for added durability. The midsole includes cushioning responsive to the movement of the foot and the outsole is constructed of durable, deep-grooved lugs in addition to pillars that sit under the forefoot and heel.

Helpful Review: “These are the most comfortable shoes I have ever owned. Since trying them on, I haven't worn any other shoes. They're very light, they slip on and off easily, and the soles and insoles make it seem like you're walking on a good mattress.”

  • Available sizes: 6.5 – 16 (wide and X-wide available)

17

Walking sneakers with a ventilated design and lots of cushion

These walking sneakers feature ample cushion and a convenient breathable mesh upper for maximum cooling and ventilation. With the rubber outsole offering durable traction, the lightweight insole offers support similar to a yoga mat in its responsiveness on top of being able to effectively wick away moisture. Choose among nine colors and throw them in the washing machine when it’s time for a refresh.

Helpful Review: “They have definitely exceeded my expectations. Not only are they super lightweight, but they allow my feet to breathe well too. I can feel the breeze of the A/C sometimes when I am walking. My feet don't hurt anymore and I am satisfied with my purchase.”

  • Available sizes: 7 – 14 (X-Wide available)

18

Stylish walking shoes from a trusted running brand

A company long known and favored for its line of running shoes, this walking shoe developed by Saucony maintains a hard-won standard. Constructed of both a synthetic and mesh upper, it offers breathability in addition to flexibility, aided by rubber overlays for extra support. The outsole features grid technology and foam cushioning to help stabilize this neutral pronation shoe.

Helpful Review: “A friend recommended Saucony as he's worn them exclusively for years. I was a bit skeptical but I wanted a low-tech, basic walking/running shoe that was lightweight and well-ventilated. I got that with this pair of shoes.”

  • Available sizes: 7 – 14 (Wide available)

19

A minimalist walking shoe with breathable mesh

These comfortable hiking sneakers are designed for long-distance walking along trails but they don't have the heaviness or clunkiness of regular hiking boots. They feature special shanks in the midsoles that support your feet while helping to prevent fatigue. Inside, they have EVA foam cups that provide additional comfort.

The flexible uppers feature breathable mesh that cools your feet down, and the fronts of the soles have clever drainage holes to redirect water when you're walking in the rain. The tough rubber underneath showcases heavy-duty lugs with lots of traction and, like the previous pair, they're built with a level footbed to keep you balanced.

Helpful Review: “The water drainage makes the shoes super easy to clean - the inserts are easily removed, and you can wash the shoe with a hose, in the sink or in the lake.I've worn these shoes in all sorts of hiking conditions and they are excellent hikers. Permanently replaced my Merrills and Keen's for summer hiking. Excellent traction and durability.”

  • Available sizes: 8 — 10.5

20

The sneaker with a cushioned platform

These walking shoes are all about the cushion as they take the concept to new heights, literally. Breathable due to a mesh fabric upper, the insole and midsole feature a shock-absorbing platform and comfortable support. Lightweight, the web-design rubber outsole helps with traction on different surfaces, and forefoot flex grooves aid with flexibility in the toe area. Available in five colors, you can conveniently toss these in the washing machine to be ready for the next adventure.

Helpful Review: “This shoe, from the moment I first laced it up, exceeded all expectations. When I took my first lengthy walk, it was like walking on air. The shoe gave me a spring in my gait that makes the daily walk a pleasure rather than a task.”

  • Available sizes: 7 – 14 (X-Wide available)