Walking is among one of the best exercises for any fitness level. While not as beneficial as running for quick weight loss, it is far less jarring and easier to develop a positive habit due to its low impact nature. Walking requires no special gym equipment or pre-requisite fitness training. But in order to avoid pain and potential foot health problems, you will need the right shoes. Proper support and padding is essential to getting the most out of your walking fitness plan. The following shoes are among the most comfortable walking shoes you can get with good cushioning.
Walk all Day in Comfort with the Best Cushioned Shoes
1. New Balance 1080v11
As the latest iteration of its equally popular predecessor, New Balance 1080 embodies cushioning and plushness in a single attractive combo that is bound to deliver well on track. It features a brand-new mesh on the upper, in order to even out the fit and feel in the midfoot area, as well as redesigned flex grooves on the outsole for better traction. Additionally, the entire geometry of the shoe has been altered to ensure a smoother ride.
After reviewing the features, the New Balance 1080 comes across as a minor upgrade with no significant improvements in comfort or quality. If you have already tried and liked the previous New Balance model, you will most probably like this one as well, and even appreciate some of its new modifications.
2. Hoka One One Bondi 7
Men's
Women's
Being the sixth version of Hoka One One, the Bondi 7 is also the most cushioned shoe of this brand, promising a pillowy soft comfort for any distance you walk. With a redesigned upper and seamless construction, this shoe incorporates thoughtful detailing with firm rubber soles to provide superior grip over track, while keeping your feet secure from the vagaries of the elements.
Overall, the Bondi 7 is a high-quality walking shoe that incorporates maximum cushioning for a smooth and comfortable ride. While it isn't the typical multi-purpose shoe, it is certainly suitable for lengthy runs and recovery runs, and thus worth your money. Whatever be your style of running or training, Bondi 7 has got you covered!
3. Brooks Glycerin 19
Brooks hit it out of the ballpark with their Glycerin 19 models. These shoes are available in men’s and women’s options, although the women’s is often sold out or on back order. This is in large part due to the demand for the feminine, but not overly girly purple/blue color option. Men’s model comes in black with green and blue accents or blue/silver. Beyond looking great, these shoes are meant to help those with a neutral gait feel great as well. 3D print and synthetic materials work together to secure feet in the upper like a saddle. This cuts the weight significantly, making these shoes less than 11 ounces.
Super DNA rubber sole is a step up from Brooks’ BioMoGo DNA. It provides 20% more cushioning than previous models for a more comfortable walk. Pressure zone technology easily distributes weight across the entire shoe for easier shock absorbing power and a smoother glide. And since 96% of customers say it’s a true-fit walker, you can feel secure ordering them in your natural size. But if you swell or have width issues at all, consider ordering up a half size.
Air Zoom Vomero 14
React Infinity Run
Joyride Run Flyknit
4. Altra Torin 5 Plush
Men's
Women's
The newest edition from Altra's sleek running shoes, Torin comes with significant improvements in tread design, weight and traction. Touted as one of the most reliable trail runners of modern times, this sturdy shoe combines a fuss-free, lightweight design with good cushioning to give you the feeling of literally walking on a cloud. Whether you are aiming to cover muddy trails, or traverse along wet pavements, Torin 5 has got you covered!
Despite its flaws, the Torin is built to impress. Its minimalistic and fuss-free design makes for a lightweight shoe that offers a snug fit and pillowy feel, even at those times when you are at your breaking point. Just like any high-quality runner, it features sufficient foam padding for premium comfort and gives the traction to ace dry and wet paths alike.
5. ASICS Gel Kayano 28
The ASICS Gel Kayano is one of the most comfortable walking sneakers you can get your feet in. Made specifically for mild pronators, these walker/runners come in men’s and women’s options. Skeletal crossing synthetic material over the breathable mesh upper creates a stretch fit. The Ortholite sock liner wicks moisture away and is antimicrobial treated to resist bacteria and odor. FluidRide cushioning differs depending on gender foot shape.
Raised heel and guidance lines in the grip sole ensure proper foot placement as correction and healing occur. Rear and forefoot gel cushioning aids in healing Plantar Fasciitis. And the toe box is comfortable for most users. However, if you suffer from edema or other swelling concerns, ordering up at least a half size (and possibly a full size depending on your swelling needs) can offset the issue. Otherwise, most customers say these are true-fit ASICS shoes that offer stability and all day comfort.
6. Hoka One One Clifton 8
Men's
Women's
A quick look at the sales photos alone of the Hoka Clifton 8 running shoe shows that this sure to be a comfortable shoe with plenty of padding and cushioning. There is no doubt that there is a thick sole underneath that wide shoe, a feature that is accentuated by the stripes. This big rubber sole contains an impressive amount of cushioning from the heel right down into the toes. This, along with the lightweight materials and the breathable linings over the foot, means that walkers should have no problem handling long distances without foot pain or blisters. There is also a wider toe box than previous models, which has helped many keen fans.
The Clifton also lives up to expectations, and arguably surpasses the models before it, because of the look. This is a good looking shoe despite all that material and width. The sole and upper are usually found in contrasting colors, often a bright white on the bottom and selection of bold colors on the top. Again, there are plenty of color choices out there that should suit all kinds of tastes.
7. Saucony Liberty ISO 2
Men's
Women's
The newest revamp version of the Liberty line of walking sneakers, Saucony Liverty ISO 2 combines the best of both worlds: cushioning and light body weight. It is comfortable right of the box, and features an aesthetic design that is sure to complement with your sportswear. The sole is even and thickly padded, to allow even distribution of your body weight across your feet, and preventing residual soreness and fatigue in the process.
Liberty ISO2 is a nice choice for a neutral footed walker who prefers shoes that incorporate premium cushioning and comfort, while sporting a lightweight framework. While the price is slightly on the higher side, it comes with the promise of long-lasting durability and dependable performance, the two things that you would trade for any amount of money in the world.
8. New Balance 1260V7
Men's
Women's
New Balance is well known for their stability shoes. The comfort enhanced correction plan of this model incorporates an 8mm toe-heel drop to provide a better stride for overpronators. While the 1260 isn't heavily padded, but T-Beam arch support is among the best new technology for flat feet.
This model is considered to be one of the most comfortable walking shoes from New Balance. Synthetic material over soft mesh ensure proper support and breathability. Men’s and women’s options are addressed with bright color choices to combine fitness form with function. The shoe runs true-to-size for most. But if your feet are wide or you need to add personal orthotics, ordering up in size can be beneficial. ABZORB heel cushioning and technologically advanced sole structure provide reliable support and stability for hours on end.
In today's times of never-ending stress and pollution, exercise is the only trick to avoid getting sick and depressed to the point of death. Among easy forms of exercising are walking and running. Besides giving you a rush of energy in the peak morning hours, they do oodles of good to your body metabolism and uplift your mood. And the best part is that they don't require you to shell out some extra bucks for gym equipment or even special training. But in order to negate strain, fatigue and potential foot problems, you do need to strap on the right pair of well cushioned walking sneakers. Experts believe that proper foot support and cushioning is essential to making the most of your walking/ running time on track.
The right shoes are essential for every fitness enthusiast. While walking is a simple and effective exercise option, wearing the wrong gear can lead to serious pain and discomfort that can impede your fitness and health goals. Considering your needs based on foot gait, foot health condition, comfort, appearance and price can help ensure you find the perfect pair for your intended purpose. And the best cushioned walking shoes like the the models listed above will easily get you started on a better lifestyle.
looking for a good shoe to help me. I stand on concrete floors for 12 hours a night.. I have memory foam skechers. my feet still hurt
Hi, please do have a look at some of the options in the post about shoes for concrete floors here- findmyfootwear.com/best-work-shoes-for-standing-on-concrete-floors/
i had that problem too working on a standing all night job til I bought the HOKA shoes, the soles are thicker for those hard concrete and wood floors like at the post office and dock when we unload mail trucks and tracktor-trailers and hundreds of mail sacks on cement docks onto conveyor belts all night….but these HOKA’s with the the thcker soles and cushiony insoles are like standing all day on balloon-pillows, massaging my feet all night. Try em, and you’re sold for life. (costs more and are worth it)