Walking Shoes

If you walk a lot, whether for your job, exercise or travel, wear comfortable walking shoes.

If you walk for exercise, good for you! Walking doesn't require much more than a little ambition and of course, good, quality walking shoes ;-)

I stress buying comfortable walking shoes because buying the wrong pair of shoes can severely impair your ability to walk the farthest distance, not to mention it can be harmful to your feet.

Here's how to know your walking shoes will be comfortable or not.

Walking shoes typically have thinner midsoles than running shoes so as to better support your slower foot roll.

For a good fit and maximum comfort your walking shoes should be slightly stiffer than a running shoe for optimal foot support and have good shock absorption.

Good, quality walking shoes will cost you somewhere between $60-$100. 

If you walk a lot don't buy cheap walking shoes. You risk long term injury to your foot and you'll experience a lot less comfort.

Lightweight performance trainers are perfect for anyone who doesn't need motion control. If you walk long distances and require more comfort, look for a cushioned shoe like the MBT (Masai Technology) or the Skechers Shape Ups Review.

For midweight people who need motion control, a stability shoe works the best.

See our suggestions for finding comfortable walking shoes for women.

Recommendation when buying walking shoes

When you find a pair of shoes you absolutely love, buy 2 or 3 pairs. Swapping out your shoes each day helps them last longer.

Also shoe companies, like car companies, discontinue models, that means it could be hard to find your favorite walking shoes several years from now or even next year.

Read our Tips for selecting the Best Walking shoes

The Best Rated Walking Shoes

Read my personal Skechers shape up Shoes Review

*** Mephisto
Mephisto shoes are probably the finest walking shoe you can buy. Anyone who takes walking seriously will tell you that.

Mephisto is responsible for revolutionary design features such as speed lacing and air-circulating insoles. Mephisto makes their shoes from natural products such as latex, soft leather, cork and rubber and are completely hand made. They are truly the ultimate in comfort. 

*** Rockports
Rockport shoes are known for their comfort and enduring quality, as well as their practical design. One of my travel buddies wore these shoes on a trip we took to Italy a few years ago. She's still raving about the comfort she got even on the days we walked over 10 miles, and if you've ever been to Italy you know the walking surfaces are hard.

*** Asics 
The Asics Gel walking shoes are a perfect choice for anyone who needs serious comfort and support. They feature a gait-enhancing construction and an anatomic fit. They are also made of lightweight, flexible synthetic leather and polyester mesh for the most breatheability and comfort.

*** MBT - Masai Barefoot Shoes

The Masai Barefoot Shoes are designed to naturally help you roll your foot for increased back and leg strength, plus they are super comfy!