Our Top Picks for the Best Walking Shoes for Men
As a fitness enthusiast and experienced walker, I know that the right pair of shoes can make or break your walking routine. When I started my walking journey, I made the mistake of using everyday sneakers, which led to painful blisters and sore feet.
That’s when I learned the importance of investing in a good pair of walking shoes. Now that we covered the best walking shoes for women, we’ll review them for men. In this article, I’ll be sharing my top picks for the best walking shoes for men, along with tips on how to choose the right pair and care for them.
The Importance of Walking Shoes
Walking is a low-impact exercise that is great for people of all ages and fitness levels. It is a great way to improve cardiovascular health, tone muscles, and burn calories. Whether you are walking 4 miles a day, or 10 miles, to fully enjoy the benefits of walking, it is important to wear the right shoes.Â
Walking shoes are specifically designed to provide the necessary support and cushioning for walking, which helps prevent injuries and discomfort.
Wearing the wrong shoes can lead to various foot problems such as blisters, plantar fasciitis, and shin splints. This is why it is important to invest in good quality walking shoes that fit properly and provide the necessary support.
The right pair of walking shoes will not only keep your feet comfortable but also improve your posture and overall walking experience.
Features of the Best Walking Shoes for Men
When looking for the best walking shoes for men, there are a few key features to keep in mind.
Firstly, the shoes should have good arch support to prevent overpronation and underpronation. Secondly, they should have a cushioned sole to absorb shock and provide comfort. Lastly, the shoes should have a durable outsole for traction and stability.
Other features to consider when choosing walking shoes include material, breathability, and weight. Leather and synthetic materials are popular choices for walking shoes as they are durable and breathable.
Lightweight shoes are also a good option as they put less strain on the feet and legs.
Top 5 Best Walking Shoes for Men Overall
New Balance Men’s MW877 Walking Shoe
This shoe has a comfortable cushioned midsole, good arch support, and a durable outsole for traction. It also has a breathable mesh upper and is available in various widths to ensure a proper fit.
Skechers Performance Men’s Go Walk 4 Incredible Walking Shoe
This shoe has a lightweight design, a cushioned insole, and a flexible outsole for natural movement. It also has a mesh upper for breathability and a slip-on design for easy wear.
ASICS Men’s Gel-Tech Walker Neo 4 Walking Shoe
This shoe features ASICS’ Gel Cushioning System for shock absorption and a comfortable fit. It also has a breathable mesh upper and a durable outsole for traction.
Brooks Addiction Walker Walking Shoes
This shoe has a full-grain leather upper, a cushioned midsole, and a durable outsole for traction. It also has a removable insole for custom orthotics and is available in various widths for a proper fit.
Merrell Men’s Moab 2 Waterproof Hiking Shoe
This shoe is a great option for outdoor walking as it has a waterproof membrane to keep your feet dry. It also has a comfortable cushioned midsole and a durable outsole for traction on uneven terrain.
Best Walking Shoes for Men with High Arches
If you have high arches, it is important to choose walking shoes that provide adequate arch support. High arches can lead to supination, which is when the foot rolls outward, putting extra pressure on the outer edge of the foot.
This can cause discomfort and even injuries. Some of the best walking shoes for men with high arches include:
Brooks Ghost 13 Running Shoe
This shoe has a cushioned midsole and a segmented crash pad for smooth heel-to-toe transitions. It also has a breathable mesh upper and provides good arch support.
New Balance Men’s Fresh Foam 1080 V10 Running Shoe
This shoe has a cushioned midsole and a breathable mesh upper. It also provides excellent arch support for high arches.
ASICS Men’s Gel-Kayano 27 Running Shoes
This shoe features ASICS’ Gel Cushioning System and provides excellent arch support. It also has a breathable mesh upper and a durable outsole for traction.
Best Walking Shoes for Men for Long-Distance Walking
If you enjoy long-distance walking, it is important to choose shoes that provide excellent cushioning and support. Long-distance walking can put a lot of strain on your feet and legs, so it is important to have shoes that can absorb shock and provide stability.
Some of the best walking shoes for men for long-distance walking include:
Hoka One One Bondi 7 Running Shoe
This shoe has a thick cushioned midsole and a breathable mesh upper. It also has a durable outsole for traction and stability.
Brooks Glycerin 19 Running Shoe
This shoe has a cushioned midsole and a soft upper for comfort. It also has a durable outsole for traction and a breathable upper.
Saucony Triumph 18 Running Shoe
This shoe has a cushioned midsole and a breathable upper. It also has a durable outsole for traction and provides excellent support for long-distance walking.
Best Walking Shoes for Men for Outdoor Activities
If you enjoy walking on uneven terrain or in the great outdoors, it is important to choose shoes that provide good traction and stability. Outdoor walking can be challenging, so it is important to have shoes that can handle various terrains and weather conditions.
Some of the best walking shoes for men for outdoor activities include:
Merrell Men’s Moab 2 Waterproof Hiking Shoe
This shoe has a waterproof membrane to keep your feet dry and a durable outsole for traction on uneven terrain. It also has a comfortable cushioned midsole for support.
Salomon Men’s X Ultra 3 GTX Hiking Shoes
This shoe has a waterproof Gore-Tex membrane and a durable outsole for traction on various terrains. It also has a cushioned midsole for comfort.
KEEN Men’s Targhee III Waterproof Hiking Shoe
This shoe has a waterproof membrane and a durable outsole for traction on various terrains. It also has a cushioned midsole and a breathable mesh upper for comfort.
Tips for Choosing the Right Walking Shoes for Men
When choosing walking shoes, it is important to consider your foot type, walking style, and the type of walking you will be doing. Some tips for choosing the right walking shoes for men include:
- Get your feet measured to ensure a proper fit
- Choose shoes with good arch support for flat feet or high arches
- Look for shoes with a cushioned midsole for shock absorption
- Consider the material and breathability of the shoe
- Choose shoes with a durable outsole for traction and stability
How to Properly Care for Your Walking Shoes
Proper care of your walking shoes can extend their lifespan and ensure they continue to provide the necessary support and cushioning. Here are some tips for caring for your walking shoes:
- Clean your shoes regularly with a damp cloth
- Allow your shoes to air dry after each use
- Use a shoe tree to maintain the shape of the shoe
- Avoid exposing your shoes to extreme temperatures or direct sunlight
- Replace your shoes when they show signs of wear and tear
Frequently Asked Questions
How often should I replace my walking shoes?
It is recommended to replace your walking shoes every 300-500 miles or every 6-8 months, whichever comes first.
Can I use running shoes for walking?
While running shoes can be used for walking, they are not specifically designed for it. Walking shoes have features that are specifically tailored for walking, such as a flexible sole and good arch support.
Are walking shoes necessary for walking?
While it is possible to walk in everyday sneakers, walking shoes provide the necessary support and cushioning for walking, which can prevent injuries and discomfort.
Conclusion
Investing in a good pair of walking shoes is essential for a comfortable and safe walking experience. Whether you have flat feet or high arches, or you just enjoy outdoor walking, there is a walking shoe out there for you.
By following the tips in this article and choosing one of our top picks, you can ensure a comfortable and enjoyable walking routine.
