Walking is inevitable. You must move from one place to another. Things must get done in order to achieve your goals. But you cannot walk bare feet unless you are from the Old Stone Age-but you are past that, aren’t you?
Long-distance walking comes with its repercussions. At the end of it, you will sustain blisters, muscle pull, hip issues, chafing, and muscle inflammation. Did we mention feet aches? Yes, that’s a problem you should expect too.
Sounds like too much doom and gloom? Don’t worry, there are multiple benefits of walking too. For instance, frequent walks improve blood circulation, keeps you in good shape, lightens your mood, and boosts your overall health.
So how can you ensure long walks without expecting too many unwanted side effects? It’s simple. Get the best long distance walking shoes. Such footwear features stunning biomechanics that promote comfort, support, and protection.
Truth be told, not all shoes are designed for walking. You just need to be on the lookout for some special features that favor your daily activities. After careful review and consideration, we came up with a few long distance walking shoes that could be of help. The one we feel stands at the top of the list is New Balance Men’s MW411v2 Walking Shoe. It is hands down comfortable, lightweight, and affordable.
For the ladies, the list may seem like it has more men choices but some of them exist in female options as well. Additionally, we cover more feminine choices in the FAQ section-some are podiatrist-recommended. Alright, let’s get rolling.
Best Long Distance Walking Shoes
Here is a vast list of offers that could turn out to be dependable:
1. New Balance Men’s MW411v2 Walking Shoe
This updated version of the MW411v2 adds features that continue to make it one of the best sneakers for long distance walking. This revamped pair features a newly designed rubber outsole that gives you reliable traction while still playing a vital role in impact absorption.
Constructed on an SL-2 frame with a narrow heel, high in-step with a deeper toe box, your feet will remain comfortable and in the correct position allowing you to experience a long-distance walking experience unlike any other.
The CUSHNB midsole provides the comfort you need while walking on hard floors. Like other sneakers, this one too comes with a nicely padded opening and a mesh fabric top that promotes air circulation. Courtesy of its sporty looks, you can enjoy the company of this shoe on many work out and non-workout related activities.
Features
- Mesh and leather top
- Rubber outsole
- Removable insert
- Padded opening
- Athletic design
Pros:
- Soft fabric lining
- Removable foam insole
- Plush/padded tongue and collar
- Lightweight
- Increased traction performance
Cons:
- Too narrow
- Stiff
New Balance Men’s MW411v2 Walking Shoe is trusted by thousands of previous buyers. How do we know this? The reviews. So if you are looking for good shoes for walking, this could be an excellent grab. It is comfortable and affordable.
2. Brooks Women’s Addiction Walker Walking Shoes
Addiction Walker Walking Shoes is made for an empowered, goal-oriented woman. A woman who is always on the move exercising or going about other daily errands. This particular shoe scores quite a lot because it helps with feet pain, hip pain, and plantar fasciitis.
The quality of the shoe is outstanding and bears all the essential long distance walking features like better traction and breathable panels. Additional like BioMoGo midsole not only help with impact absorption but redirect energy back to the feet.
Also, Brooks Women’s Addiction Walker Walking Shoes is engineered with ROLLBAR advanced technology. This tech allows for ultimate freedom of motion, better flexibility, and control. Unfortunately, there are only a few colors available.
Features
- Synthetic sole
- Comes in all sizes
- Energy return insole
- Soft cushioning
Pros:
- Slip-resistant
- Padded for comfort
- Energy-efficient midsole
- Breathable
- Better heel-to-toe transition
Cons:
- Lower cushioning support
- Chunky looks
Brooks Women’s Addiction Walker Walking Shoe can be a great replacement to New Balance and Nikes. Doesn’t cost a lot but will sufficiently help you walk many miles before you could need another pair. Feel free to check it out.
If you suffer from plantar fasciitis, check out our exhaustive list of the best walking shoes for plantar fasciitis.
3. Skechers Performance Men’s Go Walk 3 Walking Shoe
Got a long walk ahead of you? If so, you might find Skechers Performance Men’s Go Walk 3 to be a dependable partner. Crafted from lightweight and breathable fabrics, this shoe’s primary purpose is not to become another burden.
Feel like taking a rest? Cool, just slip it out-no laces and no fabric strap to grapple with. To increase comfort, the shoe sports an energy-returning insole, memory foam cushioned heel and two-piece midsole that not only soaks the impact but returns energy back to the feet.
The simplicity of Skechers Performance Men’s Go Walk 3 Slip-On Walking Shoe will give you the freedom to match it with a wide variety of attires without looking weird. There are over 10 alluring color choices to go for.
Features
- Slip-on design
- Goga Pillars outsole
- Energy return insole
- Resalite two-piece midsole
Pros:
- Multi-directional tractioned outsole
- Nicely padded for comfort
- An eye-candy design
- Lightweight
- Reliable arch support
- Affordable walking shoe
Cons:
- Noticeable increase in foot heat
- The heel is too wide
Skechers Go Walk 3 is one of the lightweight shoes for walking. It’s richly padded for comfort and sports a pull-on construction that makes for easy on and off. Anyone on a tight budget should consider this pair. It doesn’t disappoint a lot.
4. Asics Men’s GEL-Tech Walker Neo 4 Walking Shoe
Meet Asics Men’s GEL-Tech Walker Neo 4-a fitness running shoe that boasts of rich walking technology. This is for those who are taking their speed walking and running seriously.
Its cushioning (as is the case with many Asics) is the best in class. Being the fourth edition, it sports advanced Gel cushioning tech that is soft and responsive. With exceptional upper fit, breathable mesh, and anti-microbial properties, Walker Neo 4 is an ultimate offer.
Furthermore, it comes with a Duomax and Trusstic system that supports and stabilizes each of your steps. So yeah, this is the kind of shoe you need for walking and standing all day-whether on concrete or tiled floors.
Features
- Gel-tech cushioning
- Textile and synthetic upper
- Padded opening
- Included ortholite sockliner
- Support and stability-enhancing Duomax and Trusstic system
- Anti-microbial protection
Pros:
- Relieves pressure on feet
- Breathable uppers
- Better durability factor
- Rebuffs growth of bacteria
- Padded tongue and collar
Cons:
- Interior padding wears down quickly
Asics Men’s GEL-Tech Walker Neo 4 Walking Shoe is for a dynamic person. This means the shoe is ideal for treadmill walking, dealing with plantar fasciitis (if you order a half size up) and bad knees. So heck yeah, this one is a solid grab.
5. Under Armour Men’s Charged Running Shoe
Under Armour Men’s Charged Running Shoe is more a jack of all trades which is why we thought it would be great to add it here. Furthermore, it comes with support and a stronger exterior than others for improved safety in extreme conditions.
On Amazon alone, this running sneaker has over 10k reviews and the rating is still dazzling. There is just no way such a shoe can be a letdown. So if you want a shoe that with minimal chances of returning, this would be it.
Performance-wise, Under Armour Men’s Charged Running Shoe comes in a lightweight package so as not to weigh you down. It further includes in its architecture an EVA sockliner, charged cushioning midsole, and an energy-returning outsole for refreshing comfort. The exterior is meshed adequately for complete breathability.
Features
- Leather top
- Breathable panels
- EVA sockliner
- Low-top running sneaker
- Charged cushioning midsole
Pros:
- Decent quality yet inexpensive
- Generously cushioned
- Firm overlays for superior protection
- Remains cool in hot surroundings
- Lightweight
Cons:
- No serious quality flaws
Quite frankly, Under Armour Men’s Charged Running Shoe might be the only shoe in this review with decent quality, massive positive reviews, and well-styled to meet the standards of the modern fashion. Plus it can handle both walking, running, and other workouts. If this sounds like the kind of deal you are after, then check it out from the link below.
6. Poemlady Men’s Slip-on Walking Sneaker
You don’t have to spend an arm and a leg just to get the best long distance walking shoes. If you forget about the big brands for a minute, your eyes will come across some decent and unique collections like Poemlady Men’s Slip-on Walking Sneaker.
This a casual sneaker with a loafer design. So basically, it gives you the comfort and breathability of high-end sneakers but without the chunky bit. Poemlady is also a slip-on with gore fabrics and a heel pull-on tab that makes wearing and removing it a breeze.
But that’s not all; this sneaker fits like a glove or a sock. Meaning it expands and contracts back. This feature protects the toes from being pressed together or pressing against hard toe fronts. Last but not the list, the pair comes in over 10 beautiful colors.
Features
- Anti-skid outsole
- Knit upper
- Meshed exterior
- Slip-on with a heel pull-on tab
Pros:
- An inexpensive outdoor walking shoe
- Very lightweight
- Elegant design and in multiple colors
- Anti-skid rubber outsole
- Bounce back ability hence superior comfort
Cons:
- If recent reviews are anything to go by, this shoe is a great deal with a few flaws
Poemlady Men’s Slip-on Walking Sneaker is for those looking for cheap shoes for long distance walking. This pair is also meant for driving, horse riding, yoga, gym, parties, running, and other casual activities. At its price, you would really be missing out on a great deal if you don’t consider it.
7. Peak Men’s Lightweight Walking shoe
We are huge fans of Nike dunks and the Adidas Ultraboost line. Some New Balances too can be really mind-bending. However, you would probably agree with us that no shoe in this review is as attractive as Peak Men’s Lightweight Walking shoe.
This is an ultra-lightweight sneaker with colorful sole design for both young and older men. The top fabric is entirely meshed making it cool for hot indoor gym sessions and other outdoor workouts. The pronounced EVA midsole takes care of impact thus delivering soft landings every time.
Albeit having laces, Peak Men’s Lightweight Walking shoe is practically a slip-on. There is a pull-on tab for easy on and off. You can use it for indoor gym, biking, standing workdays, tennis, and running. The shoe runs bigger so go a half size down.
Features
- Cushioned EVA midsole
- Slip-on design
- Elastic topline
- Breathable knit upper
Pros:
- Provides a responsive fit
- Lightweight and breathable
- Versatile design
- Easy to wear or remove
- Extremely elegant
- Affordable
Cons:
- Limited color choices
- Runs big
If you are not prepared to spend $50+ on good shoes for walking, we got a superb solution for you- Peak Men’s Lightweight Walking shoe. This unknown gem can outperform some of the notorious Nike and Adidas sneakers out there. Even better, they can handle more than just walking. You should check this out.
Things to Consider Before Buying Long Distance Walking Shoes
Shoes designed for walking are not entirely the same as long distance running shoes. Differences do exist (even when nuanced). And these differences can make or break the deal. The good part is, this section will teach you the most important things you need to consider. Here are a few of them:
Features
There are many features that need to be taken into consideration. Keep in mind that the walking shoes your friends have may differ greatly from the walking shoes that you actually need. So do not purchase a shoe like your friends’ unless you’ve tried them out.
Basically, the more the number of features, the better the shoe is equipped to handle your long walking distance needs. Some of those features are discussed below.
Right Fit
Do you remember the common feet problems we discussed at the beginning? A shoe that is extremely tight impairs air circulation. The result? Too much sweating and the possible growth of bacteria that could mess up with the health of your feet.
Similarly, oversized shoes will keep slipping and coming off. Should it come off on a floor with sharp objects or corrosive liquids, you are up for some unpleasant experience. So make sure to order a shoe in the right size. Some shoes run small or big. So make sure to read buyer reviews to know if they sized up or down.
Durability
Walking for long distances requires shoes that are durable. Walking surfaces will not always be smooth and even. Sometimes your routine could be arduous and recurring week after week. You can guess what will happen to a flimsy shoe. It won’t last past the first few weeks. Some can tear up right away after putting them on.
Unless you are targeting a low-budget walking shoe, a high-end one should stick around for a year, two (only work boots can last almost forever.) Since a price tag is not always the best way to judge a shoe’s quality, leverage the reviews from past users. Too many 3 stars and below are indications of poor craftsmanship.
Comfort
The very essence of looking for good long distance walking shoes is for comfort. This way, you can get back from your errands with less painful feet. Note that nicely padded shoes can keep your feet in better shape for many years.
Those with foot conditions such as plantar fasciitis, diabetes, bunions, and hammertoes must look for exceptional comfort. We highly doubt a good number of walking shoes are comfy enough for such problems. We have already covered some best shoes for plantar fasciitis, hip pain, sciatica, and arthritic feet. Check them out in your own free time.
Arch Support
What’s the shape of your arch? Do you have flat feet or high arches? If you have normal feet like most of us, then you have nothing to worry about. However, those with overpronation or underpronation must consider arch support. There is a good number of long-distance walking shoes with awesome arch protection.
Truthfully, you might like a shoe for its remarkable features and looks. If it happens to lack arch support, you might need to look for insoles or request for a custom variety. This is the only way to go around the arch support problem.
Tips for Those Participating in Distance Walking Event
Clearly, your motivation is to get out there and get kicking. Guess what, that awesome. Making the first step towards anything is one of the most difficult things to do in life. However, being prepared doesn’t hurt, right? Cool.
So for those partaking in long-distance walks for work out, weight loss, competition, and other health reasons, here are the mistakes you need to avoid committing:
Undertraining
Unless you still have the same energy as your youthful years, you need to train frequently in preparation for long walks. Start slow with a target of walking 30-60 minutes every day for a whole week. This way, you’ll be reading your body for a long, torturesome walk.
Over-striding
Do not take long strides while walking. Doing so will over-stretch your muscles, hips, and tendons resulting in much pain that could blow up your training schedule.
Improper nutrition
You are eating meat and cheese before a run? It’s not a sin but that’s not a proper training diet. What you need is energy-packed food like wholemeal toast with marmalade, jam or honey, natural yogurt, porridge with banana, and many more.
Wearing your new shoes to the field
It can be so tempting to want to wear your new shoes on a long walk right away. That’s a mistake. Even the most flexible shoes for walking need testing so you don’t end up with blisters or returning bare feet with shoes in your hands. Try on your shoes for short walks before tagging them along on long walks.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q. What are the best women shoes for long distance walking?
A. Some of the most favorite options for women include Brooks Women’s Addiction Walker, Saucony Women’s Progrid Integrity ST2, Ryka Women’s Devotion Plus 2, and Brooks Women’s Ghost 11. Those on a tight budget can go for Skechers Women’s Go Walk 3, ZYEN Women’s Walking Shoe and Skechers Women Go Walk Joy.
For those in love with the biggest household names, some worthy options include Adidas Cloudfoam Pure Running Shoes, and New Balance Women’s Fuel Core Nergize.
Q. Is it okay to wear running shoes for walking?
A. While you certainly can wear whatever you want, running and walking are principally different activities. Running is a high impact activity while walking is a low-impact. Also when running we mostly land on the heel, ball of the foot, or midfoot. When walking, however, we land mostly on the heel.
These differences account for shoe features as well. So basically a walking shoe will have an undercut heel, forefoot flex, mild cushioning, and some breathability. Running shoes, on the other hand, will have pronounced cushioning (particularly in the heel), massive breathability (because it gets hotter when running), and bigger midsoles.
So as you can see, while shoes designed for walking are unique on their own, running shoes can still be useful too.
Q. What shoes do podiatrists recommend for walking?
A. Podiatrists recommended long-distance walking shoes include Asics Gel Quantum 180 4 Sneakers, Ryka Devotion Plus 3, Adidas Ultraboost 19, Merrel AC+ Range Sneakers, New Balance Women’s Fuel Core Nergize, Allbirds Tree Runners, and ionic Kirra Backstrap Sandal.
Conclusion
Walking does not involve intensive exhaustion. This is why many people, particularly those in advanced ages prefer over running. But some of you walk every day to work or partake in frequent hikes. Whatever it is that gets you walking, you must prepare in order to prevent unnecessary pain, blisters, sprains, and other discomforts.
The first step to getting ready is investing in the best long distance walking shoes. Shoes form the first layer of protection. However, choices can vary based on many things. We have assembled for you some of the reliable walking shoes that will get you started the right way.
Note that having the right shoe is merely the first step to better performance. You still need to practice the right walking technique, switch terrains to toughen up (for those in it for exercise), eat well, and hydrate. All the best and enjoy your shopping spree.
Related Reviews:
- A quick look at the elderly shoes
- Top 7 ice and snow shoes
- We take a close look at walking shoes on concrete
Additional Resource: