Are All Nike Shoes the Same? We Asked Experts and Tested Several Pairs To Find Out (2024)

• Our Picks

• How We Tested

• Our Experts

• What to Look For

• FAQ

• Why Trust Verywell Fit

When it comes to overall comfort and breathability, we wouldn't recommend anything other than Nike's React Infinity Run Flyknit 2. During test walks, our tester noted that the foam cushioning provided a bouncy, responsive feel, while the Flyknit material offered a flexible, sock-like fit—earning it a nearly perfect score of 4.5 out of 5 for cushioning, and a perfect score for both responsiveness and fit. The shoe also has a significant arch, which our tester found to be a bit stiff at first. However, the stiffness quickly turned to comfy support once she started walking.

Testing Notes: “Not only are these shoes comfortable and responsive, but they’re more attractive than many other walking shoes, so it’s tempting to wear them all the time.”

Despite the good support, the shoe felt extremely lightweight and not bulky or weighed down, even during long walks. The padded collar added to the overall comfort, and also offered good protection against blisters, which is great if you plan to wear them walking on a treadmill desk while working. A grippy, rubber outsole provided reliable traction, even on a wet surface. Nike’s stylish design combined with the shoe's comfort make this pick one of our top choices for both fitness walking and casual wear.

^{Key Specs:
Material: Flywire technology upper, rubber outsole|Cushioning: Foam|Weight: 8.7 ounces|Closure: Lace-up}

Although they’re designed with runners in mind, Nike Air Zoom Pegasus 38 shoes are our top men's pick for walkers, thanks to their versatility, support, and comfort. Our tester scored the shoes highly in all categories and gave the pick a perfect score of 5 out of 5 for responsiveness, thanks to its springy, lightweight React foam cushioning.

Our tester also liked the wider fit of the toe box, which allows for good stability and plenty of space for the foot to spread out. The narrower, tapered heel and deep heel cup are optimal for keeping the foot locked in while walking.

Testing Notes: “Nike Air Zoom Pegasus is an excellent choice for anyone looking for a versatile walking shoe. It’s light and sleek enough to wear around town but also has the technical performance to serve as a pure walking shoe.”

With a mesh, stretchy upper, the shoe also excelled in the areas of fit and breathability, keeping our tester’s feet comfy and dry during test walks. We also liked that the shoe’s grippy sole, with flex grooves and a rectangular tread pattern, performed well on various surfaces.

^{Key Specs:
Materials:Mesh upper, rubber outsole |Cushioning: React foam |Weight: 10 ounces | Closure: Lace-up}

Designed with input from nurses, the Nike Air Zoom Pulse delivers much-needed comfy support to those who spend their workdays walking and standing. We love that this shoe features a durable, flexible rubber sole that allows for a natural foot gait, while also providing sturdy traction on wet and dry surfaces. We also love the slip-on design with two pull tabs that make it a cinch to get them on and off.

Our tester found the shoe to be responsive and supportive during outdoor and treadmill walks. With a secure, comfortable fit, these shoes are an easy choice for all-day wear. Plus, the durable, water-resistant synthetic material makes them easy to clean. Thanks to their plush cushioning, the shoes received a perfect score of 5 out of 5 for cushioning.

Testing Notes: "They're very comfortable, responsive and supportive during outdoor and treadmill walks. With a secure, comfortable fit, these shoes are an easy choice for all-day wear."

With a genderless design, they come in a wide range of sizes, from women’s 5.5/men’s 4 to women’s 16.5/men’s 15. If you work in healthcare or another profession that requires a lot of walking and standing, we recommend the Pulse as a great option for keeping your feet comfortable and supported.

^{Key Specs:
Materials:Water-resistant synthetic material |Cushioning:Zoom Air | Weight: Not listed |Closure:Laceless pull-on}

With exceptional design and comfort, the Nike Downshifter shoe really stands out as our best affordable pick. This shoe is super flexible and lightweight, two qualities that we like to see in a walking shoe for fitness or travel. It’s a bit lower profile and doesn’t have as thick of a foam midsole as some other Nike shoes, but we found that it still offers soft cushioning underfoot and in the heel area—earning it a perfect score of 5 out of 5 for cushioning.

During our testing, the Downshifter performed well for fitness walking, both for treadmill and outdoor walks. Our tester found the fit to be snug and supportive, without feeling too heavy or constricting, which is good for not only walking but also certain fitness exercises, such as when using a balance board.

Testing Notes: “As someone with a neutral gait and narrowish foot, I love the Downshifter for its snug, flexible fit, and supportive feel. It’s hard to believe these shoes are priced well below some other models, since they still offer the same quality and performance that Nike is known for.”

Like some of our other Nike picks, it features a sporty, attractive design, so our tester liked lacing up this shoe for casual wear, in addition to fitness walking. The shoe’s durable rubber sole has grooves that allow for excellent flexibility and grip, adding to the shoe’s durability.

^{Key Specs:
Materials:Mesh, rubber sole |Cushioning: Foam |Weight:Not listed |Closure: Lace-up}

If you want a comfortable, casual shoe that can easily go from the gym to a Saturday brunch, the Tanjun is a great, affordable option. They’re well-cushioned yet not at all bulky, with a streamlined design that looks great whether it’s paired with sweatpants or jeans.

Our tester liked the lightweight feel and the ease of getting them on and off. During test walks, the shoe was surprisingly bouncy and responsive (which earned it a 4 out of 5 for responsiveness) and the cushioning was evident with each stride.

The upper was stretchy and conformed to the foot, while the breathable mesh provided good ventilation for blister protection. The shoe’s tread is a bit shallow and, although it provided enough grip for walks around the neighborhood, it may wear down quickly on outdoor surfaces.

Testing Notes: “These are not highly technical shoes but are very comfortable, stylish, and easy to wear. They’re ideal for casual walking and all-day wear, especially for those looking for a quality shoe without a hefty price tag.”

However, with a lower price than many other Nike options, we still think these lightweight, attractive shoes are a great value overall.

^{Key Specs:
Materials: Mesh upper, 20% recycled materials | Cushioning: EVA foam | Weight:Not listed |Closure: Lace-up}

Although some of Nike’s shoes are on the narrow side, we like the Nike Air Monarch IV as a roomy and supportive option for walkers with wide feet.

The combination of full-length Air-Sole cushioning and durable leather overlays provide stellar support and stability, earning the shoe a perfect score of 5 out of 5 for lateral support, our highest rating for that category out of all of our top picks. With good traction and durability, the solid rubber sole also kept our tester steady on his feet. All that support makes for a shoe that’s a bit bulky and heavy, but we think it’s a worthwhile trade-off.

Testing Notes: “Nike's Air Monarch 4s have a very wide platform, so they are excellent for those looking for stability while walking. The wide platform and excellent stability come with a bigger and bulkier shoe, but the sleeker shoes can’t match the stability of this one.”

Our tester also found the shoe’s cushioning to be firm but very responsive, and the padding around the ankle added to the shoe’s overall comfort. What’s more, the shoe’s regular size has a wide toebox, and it comes in extra-wide for those who need even more space.

^{Key Specs:
Materials: Leather, synthetic leather, rubber | Cushioning: Nike Air, foam | Weight:13.5 ounces | Closure: Lace-up}

Not all walking shoes are safe or comfortable for hitting the trails, so it’s smart to have a dedicated pair for hiking. These trail-ready Wildhorse shoes are supportive and ideal for handling rougher terrain, without sacrificing comfort or responsiveness. We love that they’re rugged and durable, without being bulky and inflexible.

Our tester found that the multi-traction rubber lugs provided excellent grip on rough and wet surfaces, as well as uphill and downhill. The Nike React foam offers a soft, plush feel along the midsole, while the cushioning in the heel area adds to the comfort and locked-in feel. These shoes earned a nearly perfect score of 4.5 out of 5 for cushioning, and perfect scores of 5 out of 5 for upper comfort, responsiveness, and fit.

Testing Notes: “These shoes provide the perfect combination of support, comfort, and traction. I’ve tried other trail shoes that felt stiff and uncomfortable, but that’s not the case with the Wildhorse.”

They feel a little firmer than some of the other Nike options, but that’s expected and very beneficial in a hiking shoe. Nike’s Dynamic Fit System offers a secure and supportive fit, which definitely made our tester feel more confident when traversing unpredictable terrain. The upper is comfy and delivers good ventilation, a feature not often found in hiking shoes.

^{Key Specs:
Materials:Mesh upper, rubber sole | Cushioning:Nike React Foam | Weight:10 ounces | Closure: Lace-up}

Sliding into the Nike React Phantom Run Flyknit 2 feels like putting on a comfortable slipper. The shoe’s Nike React foam provides cushioned comfort that you feel from start to finish of a walk.

Our tester was a bit skeptical of the laceless design but was impressed with the snug and secure fit—giving the shoes a perfect score of 5 out of 5 for fit, upper comfort, and responsiveness. The shoe keeps the feet in place, without any slippage in the heel area. During test walks, the shoes felt lightweight, springy, and supportive, but not too restrictive.

Versatile and comfortable, these shoes are comfy for walking, but we also like them for running, strength training, and other activities. The sleek and attractive style, as well as the convenient slip-on design, make them a great choice for everyday wear and while traveling.

Testing Notes: “This shoe offers the right combination of a secure, glove-like fit, ample cushioning, and good support. Plus, they’re totally cute and easy to get on and off.”

One downside for those who like bright or bold shoes is that they’re only available in a few colors.

^{Key Specs:
Materials:FlyKnit material, elastic, rubber |Cushioning:Nike React |Weight:Not listed| Closure: Laceless pull-on}

Once you put these shoes on, you may forget you have them on or just not want to take them off, thanks to the comfortable fit and flexible design. These factors earned these shoes a nearly perfect score of 4.5 out of 5 for fit and blister protection, and a perfect score of 5 out of 5 for upper comfort. The shoes' lightweight cushioning doesn’t feature the same technology as some other Nike options, but it’s responsive and reliable.

Our tester tried them out on several walks and quickly noticed the lightweight, flexible feel. They’re low-profile and not as firm as some other Nike shoes, but they’re ideal for walkers who need a shoe with a flexible sole. The shoes are also very breathable and felt comfortable, even after wearing them for several hours.

Testing Notes: “These shoes are lightweight, flexible, breathable, and very comfortable, even after wearing them for hours. Plus, they’re very stylish and affordable. However, if you’re looking for a well-cushioned, very stable walking shoe, this may not be the right one for you.”

Simple yet versatile, they’re perfect for anyone who wants an affordable walking shoe that works for fitness as well as casual wear.

^{Key Specs:
Materials: Fabric and synthetic upper, rubber sole |Cushioning: Foam |Weight:8 ounces | Closure: Lace-up}

If your job requires you to walk a lot or spend hours on your feet, you’ll want to consider the React Miler 2 as a casual, all-day wear shoe. Like the Phantom, this shoe features Nike React foam that provides a soft and springy ride, as well as good energy return and shock absorption. This earns it a perfect score of 5 out of 5 for both cushioning and responsiveness.

Our tester found the shoe to be very comfortable and supportive, without feeling too bulky. Even with all the comfort, it still has enough responsiveness. The shoe’s wide base and grippy sole add to its overall stability.

Testing Notes: “This shoe is one of those that becomes more comfortable the longer your foot is in it. The plush comfort, excellent shock absorption, and good energy return don’t let up, even after walking many miles.”

The bottom of the shoe features a ride rail not covered by rubber that runs from heel to toe, adding to the shoe’s flexibility. We also really like the wide toebox, which has plenty of room for your toes to stretch out or to allow for swelling during long walks.

^{Key Specs:
Materials: Double jacquard mesh upper, rubber outsole | Cushioning: React foam | Weight: 9 ounces |Closure: Lace-up}

Frequently Asked Questions

• Can running shoes be used for walking?

  Although your feet hit the ground with more impact when you’re running, the movements involved in running and walking are similar. As a result, most running shoes are safe and suitable for walking.However, it’s important to choose wisely because there are important differences between running and walking shoes.

  Since running will make your feet hotter, running shoes are usually light and breathable, and they have more cushioning in the heel and forefoot. On the other hand, walking shoes are typically heavier for better support and stability.

  Running shoes can be a smart choice for walkers who walk in warm weather and need a breathable, lightweight shoe. If you opt for a pair of running shoes, just make sure that it has good support and stability, especially if you’ve been prone to foot pain in the past.

• How often should you replace walking shoes?

  On average, walking shoes will last about 350 to 500 miles before the cushioning and support are worn out, although it depends on how much you walk, your weight, and your walking surfaces. That’s about every six months if you walk about 30 minutes a day.

  “You can prolong the use of your favorite pairs by rotating them, and if the heels or soles are worn down, it's time for replacement,” Dr. Spielfogel says. “Experiencing foot pain may also be a sign that the shoes need replacing as they’re not providing the appropriate support any longer.”

• Why do my shoes squeak every time I walk?

  Squeaky shoes may be caused by friction between the shoe’s insoles and bottom. Try sprinkling baby or talcum powder underneath the inner sole. If the insoles aren’t removable, you can use the powder along the insoles’ seams.

  If your shoes squeak on slick surfaces, such as wood floors, the problem will most likely go away once you wear them outside a few times and the rougher surface scuffs them up. The bottoms of the shoes won’t be as polished and smooth, so they’ll be less likely to squeak. To speed up the process, you can also rub sandpaper on the sole.

  Wet shoes may also squeak, so it’s important to dry out your shoes if they get wet. First, remove the soles or inserts and allow them to air dry separately. You can also stuff them with balled-up newspaper to absorb the moisture. Never put wet shoes in the dryer or under a heater, as that can damage them.

• How do you clean walking shoes?

  Some walking shoes can be washed in cold water in a washing machine, but you should definitely check the shoe manufacturer’s recommendations. In many cases, you’ll get good results and increase the shoe’s longevity if you wash them by hand.

  Use a dry scrub brush or towel to remove any dirt or debris from the shoes’ surface. Fill a bowl with warm water and a tablespoon of detergent. Dip a soft scrub brush in soapy water and clean the shoes with round strokes. Wipe the shoes off with a wet towel or sponge.

  Next, take out the shoes’ insoles and use the scrub brush, dipped in soapy water, to clean their surface. Then wipe them down with a sponge. Make sure you let the shoes and insoles air dry, since putting them in the dryer or in front of a heater can damage them.