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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, which is vital to prolonging their healthy years.
To find the best walking shoes for seniors, we spoke with experts—including two podiatrists and an orthopedic surgeon—for input on what key features to look for. Then, we tested over 60 expert-approved walking shoes from 14 trusted brands in the Verywell Testing Lab and at home during our daily routines and regular walks. The shoes that made our final list of recommendations excelled in cushioning, comfort, fit, support, blister protection, and overall value.
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Key Specs:
Weight: 10.7 ounces | Closure: Lace-up | Materials: Mesh upper, foam midsole, rubber outsole | Cushioning: Moderate | Care and Washability: Hand wash, air-dry | Our Overall Rating: 5/5
Who They’re For
Best for fitness walkers or those with plantar fasciitis who want a comfortable, cushioned shoe for long walks or all-day wear.
Why We Love Them
Brooks’ Ariel GTS 23 Shoes earned our top spot for older adults because of their stability, cushioning, and support—particularly for seniors with foot conditions like plantar fasciitis and Achilles injuries. During testing, these shoes provided exceptional comfort during high-impact activities, thanks to the robust shock absorption and secure fit. We also appreciated the shoe’s ability to alleviate knee pain and help us maintain balance.
The shoes provided consistent support, allowing us to wear them comfortably all day, during long periods of standing and walking. Our feet felt aligned and stable when walking on various surfaces, including grass, concrete, and an indoor track, as well as when going up or down hills. We were also impressed with the shoe’s responsive feel, which helped us maintain a natural walking stride and kept us light on our feet.
Also available in men’s sizes at Amazon, Zappos, and Fleet Feet.
Potential Flaws
- When we first tried on this pair, they felt a bit tight, but we were able to adjust the laces for a comfortable fit.
Most Valuable Insight
“These provided me enough cushioning to support me for high-impact activities like stairs and walking long periods of time. I feel like my posture is better while wearing these because of the support and alignment they provide.” —Christine Kennedy, Verywell Fit product tester
Meet Our Tester
Our tester walks for exercise on an indoor track and sidewalks at least four times a week. She has a history of plantar fasciitis and an Achilles injury, so she needs a supportive walking shoe.
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Key Specs:
Weight: 8.3 ounces | Closure: Lace-up | Materials: Mesh upper, foam and gel midsole, rubber outsole | Cushioning: Moderate | Care and Washability: Hand wash, air dry | Our Overall Rating: 5/5
Who They’re For
Best for active people who need a comfortable and supportive shoe for fitness walking and other activities, like pickleball.
Why We Love Them
When we tested Asics’ Gel-Contend 9 Shoes, we found them to be remarkably comfortable and high-performing, especially considering their budget-friendly price. As soon as we tried this pair on, we noticed that they conformed to the shape of our feet and felt extremely supportive. Plus, the grippy rubber outsole kept us steady and safe during test walks and when playing pickleball.
The shoe’s foam midsole and gel cushioning in the rear foot combined to provide soft, flexible landings and excellent shock absorption. Our feet, joints, and lower back felt well-supported and stayed pain-free during activities and when standing for long periods. We also like the shoe’s low-profile, sleek style, which—combined with its stellar support and comfort—make it a nice choice for all-day casual wear.
Also available in men’s sizes at Zappos and Asics.
Potential Flaws
- We found the white shoes difficult to keep clean, so we wish that this pair was machine-washable.
Most Valuable Insight
“The cushion in these shoes is the best I have experienced. It helps with absorbing shock when walking, but more importantly for me, it aids while just standing.” —Connie Pudenz, Verywell Fit product tester
Meet Our Tester
Our tester has fallen arches, so she needs a supportive, comfortable shoe for walking and playing pickleball. She found that wearing these shoes helped prevent the lower back pain that she sometimes experiences when standing or walking on hard surfaces for long periods.
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Comfortable fit
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Very sturdy and stable
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APMA approved
Key Specs:
Weight: 8.7 ounces | Closure: Lace-up | Materials: Knit upper, foam midsole, rubber outsole | Cushioning: Soft and responsive | Care and Washability: Hand-wash, air-dry | Our Overall Rating: 5/5
Who They’re For
Best for walkers who want an ultra-cushioned, stable, and supportive shoe that delivers great shock absorption and reliable traction.
Why We Love Them
If you prefer a well-cushioned sneaker, we recommend Hoka’s Clifton 9 Sneakers. During testing, we found they offered great cushioning and support, allowing us to walk longer distances without knee or hip pain. We found the shoe’s fit to be extremely supportive and comfortable, making this pair an excellent choice for extended wear.
Despite its ample cushioning, the shoe’s mesh upper still offers great breathability and blister prevention. Meanwhile, the sturdy rubber outsole provided grippy traction, helping us feel balanced and sure-footed when walking. 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.
Also available in women’s sizes at Hoka, Zappos, and Dick’s Sporting Goods.
Potential Flaws
- When we first tried on this pair, the arch seemed a little high at first, but we found it became very comfortable over time.
Most Valuable Insight
“The shoes perform well no matter what I am doing. I find that I am more comfortable walking longer distances.” —Mark Pudenz, Verywell Fit product tester
Meet Our Tester
Our tester usually wears sneakers for outdoor walks on concrete sidewalks. He found that the Clifton 9 shoes had much more cushioning than sneakers he’d previously worn, allowing him to walk pain-free for longer distances.
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Good for extended wear
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Very supportive fit
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Attractive style
Key Specs:
Weight: 10.9 ounces | Closure: Lace-up or hook and loop | Materials: Leather upper, foam midsole, rubber outsole | Cushioning: Moderate | Care and Washability: Hand wash, air dry | Our Overall Rating: 4.7/5
Who They’re For
Best for older adults with balance issues or unstable feet, ankles, and knees who want a stability shoe that won’t weigh you down.
Why We Love Them
Equipped with built-in technologies to deliver motion control and stability, New Balance’s 928v3 Shoes are the best choice for seniors who need some extra support. During test walks, we noticed that they helped stabilize our gait, while also improving our balance and coordination. Our feet and ankles felt well-supported and steady, even when walking up inclines and on varied terrain.
The shoe’s attractive leather upper and sporty style make this pair ideal for either fitness walking or casual wear. Plus, they performed well on both indoor and outdoor surfaces, so they’re a great option for travel or all-day wear. We also love that they come in five different widths, allowing you to get a more customized fit.
Also available in men’s sizes at Amazon, New Balance, and Zappos.
Potential Flaws
- Although we love this pair’s support, we found the cushioning to be a bit lacking, so they wouldn’t be the best choice for high-impact activities.
- During testing, the shoes’ stiff support made them a little difficult to put on and take off. However, they felt more comfortable and easier to get on with continued wear.
Most Valuable Insight
“The shoes feel incredibly stable and make me feel confident in my steps. I would definitely recommend these shoes to others if they are looking for an attractive, stable walking sneaker.” —Jennifer Bullard Broggini, Verywell Fit product tester
Meet Our Tester
Our tester is a very active senior who enjoys walking, strength training, and Pilates. She has previous foot and knee injuries, but she found that these shoes kept her pain-free while walking and standing for long periods.
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Key Specs:
Weight: Not listed | Closure: Lace-up | Materials: Recycled textile upper, foam midsole, rubber outsole | Cushioning: Moderate | Care and Washability: Shoe: Hand-wash, air-dry; Insole: Machine wash, air-dry | Our Overall Rating: 5/5
Who They’re For
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.
Why We Love Them
If you have difficulty tying laces or bending down to get your shoes on or off, Kizik’s Lima Sneakers can help. They feature a bendable heel design that we found allows you to easily and effortlessly slip them on and off. Beyond the hands-free convenience, we were also impressed with the pair’s exceptional comfort and performance while we were walking, dancing, or standing for long periods.
During testing, our feet felt stable and secure on uneven surfaces and varied terrain, including concrete sidewalks, pavement, and sand. Although the shoes are lightweight and flexible, the cushioning felt very responsive. Plus, the shoe’s excellent shock absorption prevented pain in our joints, including a previously injured knee.
Also available in men’s sizes at Amazon, Kizik, and Nordstrom.
Potential Flaws
- The white color gets dirty very easily, so we wish these shoes were machine-washable.
Most Valuable Insight
“They’re very easy to walk in and very comfortable. I could walk longer distances comfortably without having to stop often for a break. At the end of the day my feet weren’t hurting unlike the other shoes I’ve worn.” —Dorothea Simpson, Verywell Fit product tester
Meet Our Tester
Our tester has flat feet and a history of knee pain, so she needs a comfy, supportive shoe for walking on various terrain, including concrete sidewalks and sandy beaches. She found these sneakers adapted well to different surfaces and allowed her to walk longer distances without pain.
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Good impact protection
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Excellent arch support
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Very breathable
Key Specs:
Weight: 8.6 ounces | Closure: Lace-up | Materials: Engineered mesh upper, foam midsole, rubber outsole | Cushioning: Maximum | Care and Washability: Machine wash, air dry | Our Overall Rating: 4.9/5
Who They’re For
Best for older adults who walk or stand for hours at a time and need a durable, comfortable shoe.
Why We Love Them
If you spend hours at a time on your feet, you need a walking shoe with extra support and cushioning—like New Balance’s Fresh Foam X More v5. When testing this shoe, we were impressed with its solid arch support and comfortable cushioning. The plush midsole offered great shock absorption, keeping our feet and back pain-free while standing for hours at work.
During test walks, our arches and ankles felt very stable and well-supported. Plus, the lightweight, breathable mesh upper kept our feet cool and dry during walks in hot weather. We also like that this shoe comes in three different widths, so we were able to get a size that accommodated a wide foot.
Also available in men’s sizes at Amazon, New Balance, and Dick’s Sporting Goods.
Potential Flaws
- During testing, the slight flare at the front of the shoe caused the two shoes to sometimes catch each other during quick movements. Still, we found this pair to be super supportive and comfortable for walking.
Most Valuable Insight
“The shock absorption of this shoe is amazing. I could stand all day the first day wearing them at work doing surgery.” —Donna Harris-Kober, Verywell Fit product tester
Meet Our Tester
Our tester works for long periods and needs a supportive, well-cushioned shoe to avoid aggravating her back pain and previous foot injury. She found that this pair’s arch support and shock absorption kept her comfortable at work, as well as while walking, hiking, and playing pickleball.
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Lightweight but durable
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Easy to slip on and off
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Machine washable
Key Specs:
Weight: Not listed | Closure: Slip-on | Materials: Knit upper, memory foam midsole, ethylene vinyl acetate outsole | Cushioning: Lightweight and responsive | Care and Washability: Machine wash, air-dry | Our Overall Rating: 4.9/5
Who They’re For
Best for a walker with sweaty feet, or for someone who lives in warmer climates or prefers a lightweight, breathable sneaker.
Why We Love Them
With its slip-on design, Skechers’ GO WALK 7 Springtime Shoe is a practical, comfortable option for seniors who have trouble with fine motor skills (like tying shoes) or bending down. During testing, we were impressed with the shoe’s lightweight, breathable 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.
The shoe’s cushioning felt very comfortable during long walks on varied terrain. Even after being on our feet all day in this pair, we didn’t notice any pain or fatigue. We were also pleasantly surprised they provided reliable ankle support, even when we were making turns and quick movements.
Also available in men’s version at Amazon, Zappos, and Skechers.
Potential Flaws
- During testing, we noticed that the cushioning under the balls of our feet was a bit lacking. Our feet weren’t uncomfortable, but some extra cushioning might have enhanced the overall comfort.
Most Valuable Insight
“These shoes are comfortable for long days of standing and walking. The mesh on the outside allows my feet to do all types of movement while remaining comfortable. The cooling cushioning prevents my feet from getting overheated and swelling.” —Cathy Bixby, Verywell Fit product tester
Meet Our Tester
Our tester is on her feet most of the day for childcare duties and also walks on the treadmill or outside on sidewalks and trails. Her feet get hot easily, so she liked this pair’s lightweight feel and breathability.
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Ample cushioning
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Sturdy and stable
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APMA approved
Key Specs:
Weight: Not listed | Closure: Lace-up | Materials: Leather and mesh upper, foam midsole, rubber outsole | Cushioning: Moderate | Care and Washability: Hand wash, air dry | Our Overall Rating: 4.4/5
Who They’re For
Best for older adults who want a casual walking shoe that offers solid arch support and good stability.
Why We Love Them
Vionic’s Walk Max Sierra Sneaker is another smart choice for seniors, especially those who want a sturdy shoe with excellent arch support. During testing, the shoe’s full-length EVA foam midsole offered good support, while the grippy rubber outsole provided a stable base. With a mesh and leather upper, this pair also delivers the perfect combination of soft comfort and style.
The shoe’s fit felt just right, with no rubbing or toe cramping. Plus, the wide width options make them ideal for older adults with previous issues with blisters or bunions. We also like that this APMA-approved pair is treated with a water-repellent coating for protection in wet weather.
Potential Flaws
- During testing, we found that the rubber tongue was a bit uncomfortable, as it was digging into our foot.
- Although we liked the shoe’s arch support, we found that our heel was slipping out of the shoe, so we would recommend a narrow-width option if you have narrow heels.
Most Valuable Insight
“These shoes felt stable as I was walking around, sweeping, and vacuuming. My feet felt supported, with no instability or wobbling.” —Peggy Schmitz, Verywell Fit product tester
Meet Our Tester
Our tester is an avid fitness walker and sometimes wears custom orthotics for a heel issue. She didn’t use her orthotics in this pair and found that they had ample arch support.
Walking Shoes for Seniors We Also Tested
We tested dozens of walking shoes but only included 8 in our final list of recommendations. These three sneakers had some noteworthy features but didn’t stack up to the competition.
- We liked that Dr. Comfort’s Grace Walking Shoes have two different insoles for more customized cushioning and support. However, during test walks, the shoes rubbed against our big toes and our heels were slipping out, so this pair wouldn’t meet the needs of older adults who need easy-to-wear, comfortable shoes for walking and daily activities.
- While they offered good stability, SAS’s Tour Mesh Lace Up Sneakers did not provide the cushioning and arch support needed for seniors with arthritis, as we found that the soles became painful after about 40 minutes of wear. Despite the ease of lacing, their lack of shock absorption limited their overall effectiveness for seniors.
- Although OrthoFit’s Walkers Shoes feature a non-slip rubber sole with excellent traction, they didn’t have sufficient cushioning or support for prolonged walking or high-impact activities. This is a major drawback for seniors, particularly those with conditions like plantar fasciitis, who want robust cushioning and support to avoid joint pain and instability.
What We’ve Updated
- Since we last published this roundup, we’ve tested new shoe models and updated our recommendations based on our new findings.
- In total, we tested 12 new pairs, eight of which we’ve added to our list.
- Based on our most recent testing, we reworked our superlatives to reflect the most up-to-date insights.
What to Look for When Shopping for Walking Shoes for Seniors
- Cushioning: Seniors may benefit from extra-cushioned support, as we tend to lose the natural fat padding under the foot as we age, Roussel says. Look for shoes with a cushioned insole and a soft, shock-absorbing, contoured midsole that will provide comfort and reduce impact. And if you wear custom orthotic inserts or insoles, choose a pair with extra room.
- Stability: The right pair of shoes can help improve stability for older adults who struggle with mobility or balance issues. Look for sneakers with a stable, firm heel and an even, supportive outsole. If the shoe’s sole bends easily and is too flexible on the bottom, it may lead to more issues or even injury, podiatrist Tyler Miranda, DPM says.
- Traction: Older adults also need shoes with durable and slip-resistant soles to help prevent slips and falls. Look for a pair with rubber soles that have a multidirectional tread pattern with good grip and traction.
- Materials: It’s important to look for shoes made from durable materials, especially for the outsole. Rubber outsoles provide excellent traction and support, while mesh and leather are great options for the upper since they’ll feel soft and gentle against the feet. Look for shoes with breathable and moisture-wicking materials, which will help prevent uncomfortable sweating, Roussel says.
How We Tested the Walking Shoes for Seniors
To develop our list of the best walking shoes for seniors, we spent over six weeks testing more than 60 pairs of shoes from 14 high-quality, trusted brands. We completed at least three walks of varied distances and difficulty and also wore the shoes for everyday activities. Throughout testing, we evaluated each shoe for the following criteria:
- Fit: After unboxing, we tried on each shoe to analyze the initial fit: Was there a thumb’s width of space between our longest toe and the end of the shoe? Did the shoes feel snug around our heels and midfoot? Was there room to wiggle our toes? Then, we walked around the room to determine whether or not our feet slid around in the shoe. We also noted if it felt true to size, narrow, or wide.
- Cushioning: During our test walks, we assessed each shoe’s level of cushioning. We recorded whether the cushioning felt soft or firm if it absorbed impact when our feet hit the ground, and if the level of cushioning felt even throughout the shoe or more concentrated in one area (the heel, for example). We also noticed how our feet felt after each walk: Any pain? Discomfort? Fatigue?
- Responsiveness: Next up, we evaluated each shoe’s responsiveness, or how bouncy and springy it is. We noted how effective the shoe propelled us to the next stride and whether or not it bounced back to help with speedy transitions. Walking shoes performed well in this category if they left our legs feeling fresh after test walks.
- Comfort: Comfort is one of the most important things when selecting walking shoes for seniors. During test walks, we assessed how comfortable each shoe felt by paying special attention to the upper: Was the material soft, flexible, and breathable? Was there enough room to easily wiggle and splay our toes? We also prioritized options that offered comfort throughout the whole shoe and left our feet fresh and blister-free after long walks.
- Blister protection: For this very important category, we considered fit and breathability—two key factors of blister protection. Shoes that fit correctly did not cause overheating or excess sweating and kept our feet blister-free performed well in this category.
- Value: To determine a value score, we looked at the price of each shoe after testing was complete. We determined that walking shoes for seniors that scored high in this category were fairly priced, given the quality of the shoe. And we would consider paying even more for some of the shoes that earned a perfect score for value.
Our Experts
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:
- Damian Roussel, DPM, a podiatrist at The Centers for Advanced Orthopedics
- Tyler Miranda, DPM, a podiatrist at Advanced Podiatry of Manhasset
- Pamela Mehta MD, a board-certified orthopedic surgeon and founder of Resilience Orthopedics
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the difference between a training shoe and a walking shoe?
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.
How much do walking shoes for seniors cost?
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.
Why should seniors buy senior-specific walking shoes?
Seniors have a variety of specific shoe gear needs, due to the effect of aging on their feet and overall health, Miranda says. Wearing walking shoes with a sturdy, stable base and cushioned support can help seniors improve their balance and avoid falls.
What are the health benefits of regular walking for seniors?
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.
How long do walking shoes last before they need to be replaced?
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, Mehta says.
Why Trust Verywell Fit
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 Clifton 9.
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