The Ultimate Guide to the Best Walking Shoes for Men in 2024

When it comes to walking, whether for fitness, daily errands, or even long-distance treks, having the right shoes is crucial. Walking shoes are designed to provide comfort, support, and durability, ensuring that your feet remain comfortable throughout the day. However, with so many options available on the market, selecting the best walking shoes can be overwhelming. In this guide, we’ll explore the best walking shoes for men in 2024, the brands known for producing high-quality walking shoes, and the factors you should consider when selecting the perfect pair for yourself.

Which Brand Has Good Walking Shoes?

The right brand can make all the difference when it comes to walking shoes. Some brands have gained a reputation for producing high-quality, comfortable, and supportive walking shoes that are perfect for long hours of standing, walking, and even running.

1. Nike

Nike is known for its athletic shoes, but the brand also offers an impressive range of walking shoes. Their walking shoes feature a combination of comfort, durability, and performance. Nike’s Air Zoom and React technology offer cushioning that supports the foot’s natural movement. These shoes are ideal for both walking and light running.

2. Brooks

Brooks is a leading brand for running and walking shoes, known for its high-quality craftsmanship and comfort. The Brooks Addiction Walker and Brooks Beast are specifically designed for walking and offer excellent cushioning and arch support. Their shoes are ideal for individuals who need more support, particularly those with flat feet or overpronation.

3. New Balance

New Balance is synonymous with comfort, and their walking shoes are no exception. The New Balance 990v5 is a popular choice among walkers, offering an ideal mix of cushioning and stability. New Balance shoes are known for their wide size range, making them an excellent choice for men with wider feet.

4. Saucony

Saucony offers some of the best walking shoes, particularly for those who need a balance between comfort, performance, and durability. Their Saucony ProGrid Integrity Walker is designed for long-distance walking and offers superior cushioning to reduce foot fatigue.

5. Asics

Asics is known for providing exceptional support and cushioning in its walking shoes. The Asics Gel-Tech Walker Neo 2 is a popular option for men who need a shoe that offers both stability and comfort for extended periods of walking. Asics shoes often feature the brand’s signature Gel technology, which helps absorb shock.

6. Skechers

Skechers is another brand widely recognized for making comfortable walking shoes. The Skechers GOwalk series features lightweight, responsive designs and comes with memory foam insoles for ultimate comfort. Skechers shoes are a great option for men looking for affordable yet reliable walking shoes.

7. Orthofeet

For men who require extra support or suffer from foot conditions such as plantar fasciitis, Orthofeet is a go-to brand. Known for its orthopedic design, Orthofeet shoes come with features like cushioning, arch support, and contoured insoles that provide relief from common foot issues.

How to Select Walking Shoes for Men?

Choosing the right walking shoes for men requires consideration of several key factors. Here’s what to keep in mind when making your decision:

1. Comfort

Comfort is the most important factor when selecting walking shoes. Look for shoes that provide adequate cushioning and fit your foot shape perfectly. Walking shoes should feel comfortable right out of the box, with no need for a “breaking-in” period. Features like padded insoles, cushioned heels, and arch support are essential for a comfortable fit.

2. Support

Walking places a lot of stress on your feet, so you need shoes that offer support in the right places. Men who overpronate (their feet roll inward while walking) should look for shoes with stability features, while those who supinate (feet roll outward) may benefit from cushioned, flexible shoes. The shoe should support the natural arch of your foot and provide stability for long-distance walking.

3. Fit

A well-fitted walking shoe is essential to prevent blisters and discomfort. Measure your foot length and width, and look for shoes that accommodate these measurements. The shoe should have enough room for your toes to move comfortably while still providing a secure fit around the heel and arch. Some brands offer various widths, which can be helpful if you have wider or narrower feet.

4. Durability

If you’re walking long distances or spending extended periods on your feet, durability is key. Walking shoes with high-quality materials such as rubber outsoles and reinforced stitching tend to last longer. Additionally, shoes with a slip-resistant outsole can help prevent accidents while walking on slippery surfaces.

5. Breathability

When you walk for long periods, your feet can get sweaty, so it’s essential to choose shoes made from breathable materials like mesh or fabric. This helps keep your feet dry and comfortable, reducing the chances of blisters and foot odor.

6. Cushioning and Shock Absorption

Cushioning and shock absorption are essential for comfort, especially when walking on hard surfaces like concrete. Look for shoes with padded insoles, responsive midsoles, and technologies like Gel or Air cushioning for maximum shock absorption. These features reduce impact and protect your joints from strain.

Which Is the Most Comfortable Shoe Brand?

When it comes to comfort, several brands stand out for their reputation in providing exceptional walking shoes. Brooks, New Balance, and Asics are often hailed as some of the most comfortable shoe brands due to their combination of cushioning, arch support, and overall fit. Skechers also offers highly comfortable options with its memory foam insoles. However, the most comfortable brand will vary depending on your specific needs, such as foot type, gait, and preferred walking surface.

Best Walking Shoes for Men India (2024)

In India, men who love walking or need to stand for long hours also need a reliable pair of walking shoes. The demand for comfortable yet affordable walking shoes has risen, and several brands cater to this market with shoes designed for Indian climates and terrain.

Some of the best walking shoes for men in India include:

1. Skechers GOwalk 5

The Skechers GOwalk 5 is a lightweight and flexible shoe designed for everyday walking. Its cushioned memory foam insole and responsive sole make it a popular choice for long-distance walkers.

2. Nike Revolution 6

Nike’s Revolution 6 offers excellent cushioning and support with a breathable upper and durable sole, making it one of the top choices for walking in India.

3. Puma Tazon 6 FM

Puma’s Tazon 6 FM is a great option for those seeking stylish yet comfortable walking shoes. Its EVA midsole and durable outsole provide comfort and support.

4. Reebok Walk Easy

Reebok’s Walk Easy collection is designed specifically for walking, with lightweight construction and cushioning that provides maximum comfort for everyday use.

Best Walking Shoes for Long-Distance on Concrete

When walking long distances on hard surfaces like concrete, you need shoes that provide excellent shock absorption. Here are a few of the best options:

1. Brooks Addiction Walker

The Brooks Addiction Walker is a fantastic option for long-distance walkers. It offers excellent cushioning, making it ideal for extended walks on concrete.

2. Asics Gel-Nimbus 25

The Asics Gel-Nimbus 25 features Gel cushioning for superior shock absorption, making it perfect for long-distance walking on hard surfaces.

Best Cushioned Walking Shoes for Men

For those who prioritize comfort, the best cushioned walking shoes offer a balance of softness and support. Top picks include:

1. Saucony ProGrid Integrity Walker

The Saucony ProGrid Integrity Walker offers superior cushioning, making it ideal for those who need extra padding while walking.

2. New Balance 990v5

The New Balance 990v5 provides a cushioned ride, especially for those with flatter feet or those needing extra support during long walks.

Best Walking Shoes for Older Men

Older men may require shoes that provide extra support, cushioning, and stability. Some of the best options include:

1. Orthofeet Chattanooga

The Orthofeet Chattanooga is designed with comfort and support in mind, offering extra cushioning and arch support, making it ideal for older men.

2. Brooks Addiction Walker 2

The Brooks Addiction Walker 2 offers great arch support and cushioning, making it a good choice for seniors looking for stability while walking.

Best Shoes for Walking and Standing All Day

For those who spend long hours on their feet, the best walking shoes combine comfort, durability, and support. The following models are great choices for all-day wear:

1. Nike Air Zoom Pegasus 39

The Nike Air Zoom Pegasus 39 provides all-day comfort with responsive cushioning and a breathable upper.

2. Skechers Arch Fit

The Skechers Arch Fit provides excellent arch support, making it a great choice for people who need to stand or walk for long periods.

Conclusion

Choosing the right walking shoes is essential for comfort, performance, and foot health. Whether you’re walking for fitness, standing for long periods, or exploring the outdoors, investing in a quality pair of shoes is crucial. Consider your specific needs—whether you need extra cushioning, arch support, or durability—and choose a pair that fits well, offers ample support, and is designed for your walking habits. With the right shoes, walking will feel more comfortable and enjoyable, helping you maintain an active lifestyle.