10 Best Walking Shoes For Back Pain 2025 in the United States

The New Balance Men's 608 V5 Casual Comfort Cross Trainer is designed with comfort and support in mind, making it a suitable option for those experiencing back pain. Its ABZORB midsole provides excellent cushioning and absorbs impact, which is crucial for minimizing stress on your back during walks. Additionally, the IMEVA midsole adds a nice balance of firmness and flexibility, allowing for natural foot movement, while the internal midsole shank offers solid midfoot support. This is particularly beneficial for maintaining stability while walking.

The shoe’s leather upper is both durable and easy to clean, which adds to its longevity. The Phantom Liner minimizes seams, potentially reducing irritation, making it comfortable for extended wear. The PU Foam insert contributes to the shoe's overall comfort, ensuring your feet feel cushioned throughout the day.

While the shoe is available in an X-Wide size option, which is a plus for those needing additional room, some users may find the fit to be a bit off depending on their specific foot shape. It's also worth noting that the shoe weighs 2.4 pounds, which might be heavier compared to other alternatives, possibly impacting comfort during longer walks.

For those who prioritize arch support and cushioning, the New Balance 608 V5 checks many boxes. If you walk regularly and need reliable support without sacrificing comfort, this shoe could be a great match. If you have very specific fit requirements or prefer a lighter shoe, exploring other options might be advisable.

The Brooks Women’s Ghost Max 2 is designed to offer excellent cushioning and stability, which are crucial for those dealing with back pain. It features a thick layer of nitrogen-infused DNA Loft v3 midsole foam that provides soft, protective cushioning to reduce impact on your feet and lower back. The shoe’s broad base and raised sidewalls enhance stability, helping to keep your feet securely in place and supporting a smooth, natural walking motion. Its GlideRoll Rocker technology encourages easy heel-to-toe transitions, which can help reduce strain on your back by promoting a gentle, fluid stride.

The shoe is also roomy enough to accommodate different foot shapes and orthotics, which is important for comfort and proper support. While the shoe is not the lightest on the market, its weight contributes to the sturdy, stable feel many users appreciate. The heel-to-toe drop is neutral, supporting a natural foot movement without forcing an unnatural gait. Being certified for diabetic support and carrying the APMA Seal of Acceptance also speaks to its quality and focus on foot health.

This shoe suits walkers and runners who want maximum cushioning and support to help reduce back discomfort. If you prefer a lighter shoe or one with a lower profile, you might find it a bit bulky. The Ghost Max 2 effectively combines comfort, stability, and support, making it a strong choice for anyone seeking walking shoes that can alleviate back pain.

The New Balance Women's 608 V5 Casual Comfort Cross Trainer is designed with features that may benefit individuals experiencing back pain. Its PU Foam insert and NB Soft plus Supportive Comfort Insert offer substantial cushioning and support, which is crucial for alleviating pressure on the back during walks. Lightweight EVA foam in the midsole adds to this cushioning, providing a soft feel without weighing the shoe down excessively. This can be advantageous for those who need shoes that are easy to walk in for extended periods.

The Phantom Liner interior minimizes seaming, reducing possible irritation, potentially making it more comfortable for longer wear. The inclusion of an internal midsole shank helps with midfoot structure, contributing to stability, which is important for maintaining proper walking posture and minimizing strain on the back. The shoe fits wide, which could be a benefit for those with broader feet, but may not be suitable for everyone if the fit isn't just right.

Its relatively heavy leather material might not appeal to those looking for ultra-lightweight options. While the shoe is machine washable, which is convenient, potential buyers should ensure the fit and arch support meet their specific needs for back pain relief. The New Balance Women's 608 V5 offers several features that contribute to comfort and support.