Choosing the right walking shoes is always important, but the decision is especially crucial for seniors who need extra support, comfort, and accommodations for specific foot conditions. As we age, we tend to experience more foot issues, like bunions, hammertoes, arthritis, and plantar fasciitis, says podiatrist Damian Roussel, DPM. These conditions can impede daily physical activity vital to extending their healthy years. To find the best walking shoes for seniors, we began by speaking with experts—including two podiatrists and an orthopedic surgeon—for input on what key features to look for. Then, we tested over 50 best-selling walking shoes from 10 trusted brands in the Verywell Testing Lab and in the real world. We also took the shoes home to see how well they performed in our regular, daily walking routines.We went for at least three walks in each pair—an easy 3-mile walk, a brisk-paced 3-mile walk, and a longer 6-mile walk. We also wore each pair for at least eight hours straight to see how they held up during a full day of wear. The shoes that made our final list of recommendations excelled in cushioning, comfort, fit, support, blister protection, and value. We also had a walking coach, ACE-certified group fitness instructor, and RRCA-certified running coach from our Review Board review this story for accuracy and how to shop for comfortable, supportive, stable sneakers for seniors. Our Top Picks Best Men's Overall: Best Women's Overall: Best Men’s Budget: Best Women’s Budget: Best Cushioned: Best for Balance Problems: Best for Stability: Best for Plantar Fasciitis: Best Women’s Slip-on: Best for Flat Feet: In This Article Our Picks We Also Tested Where We Stand What to Look for How We Tested Our Experts Frequently Asked Questions Why Trust Verywell Fit Our Ratings Cushioning 4/5 Responsiveness 4/5 Stability 5/5 Fit 5/5 Value 4.5/5 Pros Excellent support Very durable APMA approved Cons Not as breathable as other options Weight: 11.6 ounces | Closure: Lace-up | Materials: Leather and synthetic upper, foam midsole, rubber outsole | Cushioning: Moderate | Care and Washability: Hand wash, air dry | Our Overall Rating: 4.8/5 Best for fitness walkers and older adults who need extra stability in search of a protective, durable shoe. Saucony’s Integrity Walker 3 Sneakers earned our top men's spot for older adults because of their durability, support, and exceptional overall value when considering their price. Firm yet comfortable, the midsole offers supreme stability and solid shock absorption for added protection. We like that the shoe’s plush collar and tongue add to its overall comfort, while the leather and synthetic upper provide reliable protection. To keep you safe, the grippy, durable outsole works to deliver optimal traction—we felt safe on various surfaces in most weather conditions in these shoes. The shoes come in two different width options and also have plenty of extra space if you need to accommodate orthotics or insoles. Plus, this pair has earned the American Podiatric Medical Association's (APMA) Seal of Acceptance, meaning a panel of podiatrists has determined that they help promote healthy feet. Our Ratings Cushioning 5/5 Responsiveness 4/5 Stability 5/5 Fit 4.5/5 Value 4.5/5 Pros Excellent cushioning Good arch and heel support APMA approved Cons May feel stiff at first Weight: 13 ounces | Closure: Lace-up | Materials: Leather or suede upper, foam midsole, rubber outsole | Cushioning: Moderate | Care and Washability: Wipe with a clean cloth | Our Overall Rating: 4.8/5 Best for fitness walkers or those with plantar fasciitis who want a comfortable, cushioned shoe for long walks or all-day wear. Designed to offer exceptional stability and comfort, Vionic’s Walker Classic Sneaker is a perennial favorite among older adult women—and after several wear tests, we understand why. The APMA-approved shoe’s flexible EVA foam midsole is well-cushioned and the rubber outsole is durable and grippy, providing stability and safety. Plus, the shoe also has a removable podiatrist-designed orthotic that provides great arch support. One of our testers, who is prone to plantar fasciitis found that the ample cushioning and firm support helped to keep symptoms at bay. And for even more heel protection, a thermoplastic heel counter helps to lock in the rear foot. We also love the thick leather upper and sporty design, making it perfect for fitness walking or all-day casual wear. Our Ratings Cushioning 4.5/5 Responsiveness 4.5/5 Stability 4.8/5 Fit 4.5/5 Value 4.5/5 Pros Comfortable cushioning Lightweight and flexible Very durable Cons Might not be suitable for cold weather May run narrow Weight: 9.5 ounces | Closure: Lace-up | Materials: Mesh upper, foam and gel midsole, rubber outsole | Cushioning: Soft but responsive | Care and Washability: Hand wash, air dry | Our Overall Rating: 4.5/5 Best for a casual walker or runner with sweaty feet, or for someone who lives in warmer climates or prefers a lightweight, breathable sneaker. We found Asics’ Gel-Excite 9 Shoe to be remarkably durable and high-performing, considering its budget-friendly price. It’s equipped with a foam midsole and gel cushioning in the rearfoot that combine to provide soft, flexible landings and excellent shock absorption. Plus, the grippy rubber outsole kept us steady and safe during test walks on multiple terrains. We were most impressed with the lightweight, breathable mesh upper that kept our feet cool, dry, and comfy on walks in the summer heat. And despite the low-profile design, we noticed that the sneakers are super durable, showing no signs of wear and tear after many miles. Our Ratings Cushioning 4.5/5 Responsiveness 5/5 Stability 5/5 Fit 5/5 Value 4.8/5 Pros Lightweight and flexible Plush cushioning Machine-washable Cons Not as breathable as other options Not versatile for running or cardio exercise Weight: 7 ounces | Closure: Elastic bungee laces | Materials: Engineered mesh upper, foam cushioning, rubber outsole | Cushioning: Moderate | Care and Washability: Machine washable, air dry | Our Overall Rating: 4.9/5 Best for older adults who want a casual walking shoe that offers solid arch support, ample cushioning, and springy responsiveness. With a convenient slip-on style and affordable price, Skechers’ Go Walk Flex Alani Shoes are an excellent choice for older adults who want casual walking shoes. When we first slipped in, we immediately noticed the plush, pillow-like comfort and solid arch support. We also felt the pronounced rocker shape, which helped to quickly propel our strides during test walks. The shoe’s smooth, stretchy upper offers a secure fit while still allowing for plenty of flexibility. Unlike many other sneakers with ample cushioning, this pair feels lightweight—allowing us to walk comfortably at varied paces and distances. And older adults with mobility issues will appreciate the shoe’s elastic bungee laces, which make it easy and convenient to get them on and off hands-free. “Oh my gosh, these were so comfortable! My first thought was this is how walking on a cloud must feel. The cushioning really makes an impact on the comfort and really feels nice and bouncy when walking.” —Katie Bowler, Verywell Fit product tester Our Ratings Fit 5/5 Comfort 5/5 Responsiveness 3.8/5 Stability 5/5 Value 4.5/5 Pros Secure, comfortable fit Very durable Breathable Cons Some may not like the thick, wide heel Not super springy or responsive Weight: 8.9 ounces | Closure: Lace-up | Materials: Synthetic and mesh upper, foam midsole, rubber outsole | Cushioning: Maximum | Care and Washability: Hand-wash, air-dry | Our Overall Rating: 4.8/5 Best for walkers who want an ultra-cushioned, stable, and supportive shoe that delivers great shock absorption and reliable traction. When it comes to the best cushioned shoes for walkers, we always recommend Hoka's Bondi Sneaker. The thick, full-length midsole offers a plush yet supportive feel and protective shock absorption. And despite its ample cushioning, we found that the mesh upper still offers great breathability and blister prevention. We love that the shoe also features a soft memory foam collar, which adds to the exceptional overall comfort and helps to provide a snug, secure fit. Plus, we found that the internal heel counter offers additional support. Meanwhile, the shoe’s sturdy rubber outsole provides reliable traction and enhances its overall stability, helping older adults stay steady and sure-footed when walking. “I could really feel the plush cushioning and shock absorption right away. It almost felt like putting on a very comfy, but supportive, slipper.” —Christine Luff, ACE-CPT, Verywell Fit product tester Our Ratings Fit 5/5 Comfort 5/5 Responsiveness 5/5 Stability 4/5 Value 4/5 Pros Excellent support Wide, spacious toe box Comfortable cushioning Cons Pricier than other options Weight: 14 ounces | Closure: Lace-up | Materials: Suede and mesh upper, foam and polyurethane midsole, rubber outsole | Cushioning: Soft and responsive | Care and Washability: Hand wash, air dry | Our Overall Rating: 4.8/5 Best for older adults with balance problems or those looking for a casual stability shoe that’s comfortable and cushioned enough for long distances and all-day wear. One of our favorite New Balance Shoes, the Men's 990v5 stands out for its excellent stability and traction—helping older adults stay surefooted and confident while walking. During testing, we were blown away by how steady we felt on all types of terrains. Stability shoes usually feel bulky, but New Balance’s 990v5 Sneakers are lightweight and comfortable. We also love that the cushioning is soft and responsive, offering solid support for all-day wear. And we found that the shoe’s padded tongue and collar provide even more comfort and stability, especially around the ankle. Plus, the spacious toe box allows toes to spread out, which also helps with maintaining balance. It’s also easy to find your perfect fit because this shoe comes in a range of widths, from extra-narrow to extra-extra-wide. Our Ratings Cushioning 5/5 Responsiveness 4/5 Stability 4.5/5 Fit 5/5 Value 5/5 Pros Excellent cushioning and shock absorption Supportive and stable APMA approved Cons Short laces Weight: 10.2 ounces | Closure: Lace-up | Materials: Mesh upper, foam midsole, rubber outsole | Cushioning: Moderate | Care and Washability: Hand wash, air dry | Our Overall Rating: 4.7/5 Best for older adults with balance issues or unstable feet, ankles, and knees who want a stability shoe that won’t weigh you down. Designed to stabilize your feet, ankles, and knees, Brooks’ Adrenaline GTS 22 Sneakers are the best choice for seniors who need some extra support. Equipped with Brooks’ GuideRails technology, a light support system that keeps excess movement in check to allow for a natural stride, these are by far the best stability shoes we tested. During test walks, we noticed that they helped stabilize our feet and improve our balance, even during longer and faster walks on various terrains. The full-length, plush cushioning provides soft landings and reliable impact protection. And unlike many stability shoes, this APMA-approved pick is lightweight and flexible, thanks to its breathable mesh upper. Our Ratings Cushioning 4.8/5 Responsiveness 5/5 Stability 4.7/5 Fit 5/5 Value 5/5 Pros Great arch support Comfortable cushioning Wide toe box Cons Not as breathable as other options Only come in wide sizes Weight: 9.7 ounces | Closure: Slip-on, no-tie laces | Materials: Knit upper, foam midsole, rubber outsole | Cushioning: Soft but responsive | Care and Washability: Hand wash, air dry | Our Overall Rating: 4.8/5 Best for older adults with plantar fasciitis who need a reliable walking shoe that keeps their feet comfy and pain-free. Choosing the right shoes for plantar fasciitis is one of the best ways to mitigate and prevent pain or discomfort—and we found that Orthafeet's Kita Hands-Free Walking Shoes help keep symptoms at bay. They offer excellent cushioning and solid arch support, as well as orthotic insoles that conform to the shape of your foot—delivering plush comfort and added stability. During testing, we noticed that there was extra padding in the heel area—exactly where those with plantar fasciitis need it most. The soft, stretchy, seam-free upper eliminates pressure points and friction, while the study rubber outsole gives reliable traction on a variety of surfaces. Plus, the convenient slip-on system is great for seniors who have trouble with fine motor skills (like tying shoes) or bending down. “These shoes were my go-to walking shoes during the testing period. The insole is both solid and squishy, providing ample padding, and the arch support is great. It was just what my plantar fasciitis needed.” —Kimberly Zapata, Verywell Fit product tester Our Ratings Cushioning 5/5 Responsiveness 4/5 Stability 4.5/5 Fit 4/5 Value 5/5 Pros Great arch support Easy to get on and off Comfortable, supportive fit Cons Some may not like the fake laces Weight: 8 ounces | Closure: Slip-on | Materials: Engineered knit upper, memory foam midsole, synthetic outsole | Cushioning: Moderate | Care and Washability: Machine washable, air dry | Our Overall Rating: 4.6/5 Best for older adults who have difficulty tying laces or bending down, as well as those looking for a comfy, supportive slip-on shoe for travel or everyday wear. If you have difficulty tying laces or bending down to get your shoes on or off, Skechers Slip-Ins Ultra Flex 3.0 Sneakers can help. They feature a firm heel design that we found allows you to easily and effortlessly slip them on and off. While the laces are just for show, the supportive, stretchy upper gives the shoes a secure yet comfortable fit. Beyond convenience, we were also impressed with the pair’s overall comfort and performance during test walks. Although the shoes are lightweight and flexible, the cushioning is plush and pretty responsive, while also providing good arch support. During testing, our feet felt stable and secure on varied terrain, including concrete sidewalks, pavement, and grass. “They're so incredibly comfortable—it feels like my feet are on pillows while I walk but in a good way. My feet and entire body felt lifted and aligned....perhaps they're magic?!” —Alena Kharlamenko, MS, RD, CDN, Verywell Fit product tester Our Ratings Cushioning 5/5 Responsiveness 4.2/5 Stability 5/5 Fit 5/5 Value 4.5/5 Pros APMA approved Durable leather upper Supportive and stable Cons Not as breathable as other options Heavier than other options Weight: 12 ounces | Closure: Lace-up | Materials: Leather upper, foam midsole, rubber outsole | Cushioning: Moderate | Care and Washability: Hand wash, air dry | Our Overall Rating: 4.4/5 Best for older adults with flat feet who walk or stand for hours at a time and need a durable, comfortable shoe. If you have flat feet or fallen arches, you need a walking shoe with extra support and cushioning—like Brooks’ Addiction Walker 2. The shoe also features an extended progressive diagonal roll bar that corrects overpronation (which is common with flat feet) and promotes smooth transitions. We love the supple, durable leather upper that makes this pair great for exercise and casual wear. When testing this shoe, we were impressed with its solid support and comfortable cushioning. The plush midsole is soft yet responsive, offering great shock absorption and energy return. We also noticed the shoe’s slip-resistant traction, which kept us steady and balanced. Plus, the spacious toe box and available widths make this APMA-approved pick a smart choice for older adults with previous issues with blisters or bunions. Our Ratings Fit 5/5 Cushioning/Knee Protection 5/5 Comfort 5/5 Responsiveness 5/5 Stability 5/5 Pros Lightweight and flexible Plush cushioning Wide, stable base Cons May not be suitable for cold weather Weight: 8.1 ounces | Closure: Lace-up | Materials: Knit and mesh upper, foam midsole, rubber outsole | Cushioning: Moderate | Care and Washability: Hand wash, air dry | Our Overall Rating: 5/5 Best for older adults who want a lightweight, comfy shoe that doesn’t sacrifice cushioning and support. New Balance’s Fresh Foam 1080v12 is another smart choice for seniors, especially those who want a lightweight shoe that doesn’t skimp on cushioning or support. The shoes felt comfortable right out of the box. The stretchy, breathable upper and wide, spacious toe box prevented our feet from overheating and developing blisters, even in hot weather. With a wide base, reliable traction, and solid arch support, the shoe provides excellent stability on various surfaces. The full-length foam midsole delivers ample shock absorption and plush comfort, even during long-distance walks. The shoe also features a pronounced rocker shape that delivers bouncy responsiveness and helps propel our strides forward. We tested dozens of walking shoes but only included 11 in our final list of recommendations. These three sneakers had some noteworthy features but didn’t stack up to the competition. After testing more than 50 pairs of sneakers, Saucony’s Integrity 3 and Vionic’s Walker Classic shoes were the clear overall winners for best men’s and women’s walking shoes for seniors. Both APMA-approved pairs survived months and miles of walking on various terrains, keeping our feet stable, supported, and comfortable. As we continue to test the best walking shoes, we’ll update our list with the most reliable recommendations and relevant information. To develop our list of the best walking shoes for seniors, we spent over six weeks testing more than 50 pairs of shoes from 10 high-quality, trusted brands. We completed at least three walks of varied distances and difficulty. Throughout testing, we evaluated each shoe for the following criteria: To determine the best walking shoes for seniors, we interviewed three experts and asked for their advice on which key features older adults most benefit from in a walking shoe. In some cases, our experts also recommended specific brands of shoes that work well for older adults, and advised us on which brands and types of shoes seniors should steer clear of. Read on for more information about our experts: Walking shoes are designed with the specific body mechanics of walking in mind, so they typically offer more cushioning and support around the ball and heel of the foot to help wearers maintain proper foot alignment. On the other hand, training shoes are also usually more flexible and responsive to allow for quick movements. The type of exercise equipment for seniors you use can determine your choice of footwear. Usually, a good pair of walking shoes for older adults cost between $60 and $250. Cheaper pairs may not be as durable or offer enough support, especially for walkers who are on their feet all day long. More expensive pairs may be more stylish and offer specialized support or cushioning that targets specific areas of the feet, like the heel. Seniors have a variety of specific shoe gear needs, due to the effect of aging on their feet and overall health, Dr. Miranda says. Wearing walking shoes with a sturdy, stable base and cushioned support can help seniors improve their balance and avoid falls. Walking is an excellent way for older adults to stay active and get their recommended daily amount of physical activity to reduce health risks. Regular brisk walking can help improve heart health for older people and may also benefit people with high blood pressure, arthritis, and diabetes. In general, walking shoes will last about 350 to 500 miles before the cushioning and support wear out, depending on how often you wear them, your weight, the shoes’ durability, and the surfaces you’re walking on. Experiencing foot pain may be a sign that the shoes need replacing as they’re not providing the appropriate support any longer, Dr. Mehta says. A certified personal trainer, running coach, gym buff, and fitness writer, Christine Luff spends countless hours researching and testing the latest exercise gear and gadgets. She only recommends products that she can genuinely stand behind and that she believes would be a good investment for her readers. Christine has tested dozens of walking shoes herself, one of her favorites being Hoka's Bondi 8.Best Men's Overall
Saucony Integrity Walker 3
Key Specs:
Who They’re For
Why We Love Them
Potential Flaws
Best Women's Overall
Vionic Walker Classic Sneaker
Key Specs:
Who They’re For
Why We Love Them
Potential Flaws
Best Men’s Budget
Asics Gel-Excite 9
Key Specs:
Who They’re For
Why We Love Them
Potential Flaws
Best Women’s Budget
Skechers Go Walk Flex Alani
Key Specs:
Who They’re For
Why We Love Them
Potential Flaws
Most Valuable Insight
Best Cushioned
Hoka Bondi 8
Key Specs:
Who They’re For
Why We Love Them
Potential Flaws
Most Valuable Insight
Best for Balance Problems
New Balance 990v5
Key Specs:
Who They’re For
Why We Love Them
Potential Flaws
Best for Stability
Brooks Adrenaline GTS 22
Key Specs:
Who They’re For
Why We Love Them
Potential Flaws
Best for Plantar Fasciitis
Orthofeet Kita Hands-free Sneakers
Key Specs:
Who They’re For
Why We Love Them
Potential Flaws
Most Valuable Insight
Best Women’s Slip-on
Skechers Slip-Ins Ultra Flex
Key Specs:
Who They’re For
Why We Love Them
Potential Flaws
Most Valuable Insight
Best for Flat Feet
Brooks Addiction Walker 2
Key Specs:
Who They’re For
Why We Love Them
Potential Flaws
Best Lightweight
New Balance Fresh Foam X 1080v12
Key Specs:
Who They’re For
Why We Love Them
Potential Flaws
Walking Shoes We Also Tested
Where We Stand
What to Look for When Shopping for Walking Shoes for Seniors
How We Tested the Best Walking Shoes for Seniors
Our Experts
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the difference between a training shoe and a walking shoe?
How much can you expect to pay for a quality pair of walking shoes for seniors?
Why should seniors buy senior-specific walking shoes?
What are the health benefits of regular walking for seniors?
How long do walking shoes last before they have to be replaced?
Why Trust Verywell Fit
We Walked in 50 Pairs of Shoes to Find the Best Ones for Seniors (2024)
Table of Contents
Best Men's Overall
Saucony Integrity Walker 3
Key Specs:
Who They’re For
Why We Love Them
Potential Flaws
Best Women's Overall
Vionic Walker Classic Sneaker
Key Specs:
Who They’re For
Why We Love Them
Potential Flaws
Best Men’s Budget
Asics Gel-Excite 9
Key Specs:
Who They’re For
Why We Love Them
Potential Flaws
Best Women’s Budget
Skechers Go Walk Flex Alani
Key Specs:
Who They’re For
Why We Love Them
Potential Flaws
Most Valuable Insight
Best Cushioned
Hoka Bondi 8
Key Specs:
Who They’re For
Why We Love Them
Potential Flaws
Most Valuable Insight
Best for Balance Problems
New Balance 990v5
Key Specs:
Who They’re For
Why We Love Them
Potential Flaws
Best for Stability
Brooks Adrenaline GTS 22
Key Specs:
Who They’re For
Why We Love Them
Potential Flaws
Best for Plantar Fasciitis
Orthofeet Kita Hands-free Sneakers
Key Specs:
Who They’re For
Why We Love Them
Potential Flaws
Most Valuable Insight
Best Women’s Slip-on
Skechers Slip-Ins Ultra Flex
Key Specs:
Who They’re For
Why We Love Them
Potential Flaws
Most Valuable Insight
Best for Flat Feet
Brooks Addiction Walker 2
Key Specs:
Who They’re For
Why We Love Them
Potential Flaws
Best Lightweight
New Balance Fresh Foam X 1080v12
Key Specs:
Who They’re For
Why We Love Them
Potential Flaws
Walking Shoes We Also Tested
Where We Stand
What to Look for When Shopping for Walking Shoes for Seniors
How We Tested the Best Walking Shoes for Seniors
Our Experts
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the difference between a training shoe and a walking shoe?
How much can you expect to pay for a quality pair of walking shoes for seniors?
Why should seniors buy senior-specific walking shoes?
What are the health benefits of regular walking for seniors?
How long do walking shoes last before they have to be replaced?
Why Trust Verywell Fit
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