10 Best Walking Shoes Men 2025 in the United States

The New Balance Men's 608 V5 Casual Comfort Cross Trainer is a solid choice for those looking for comfortable walking shoes that can also double as casual trainers. One of its main strengths is the ABZORB midsole cushioning, which effectively absorbs shock and provides a soft landing with each step. This feature is particularly beneficial for people who spend long hours on their feet or engage in low-impact activities. The premium PU comfort insert adds an extra layer of comfort, enhancing the fit and feel.

In terms of fit, the shoe is offered in a wide size, making it suitable for individuals with broader feet. This can greatly improve comfort and reduce any pinching or discomfort that can occur with standard-width shoes. The leather upper not only adds durability but also gives the shoe a classic look, making it versatile enough for various casual settings.

There are a few drawbacks to consider. While the cushioning is excellent for comfort, it may lack responsiveness for more dynamic activities. If you're looking for a shoe that can handle running or more intense workouts, you may want to explore other options. Additionally, while the leather is durable, it may not be as breathable as mesh materials, which could lead to overheating during warmer weather. The rubber sole provides decent grip, but its performance may not be optimal on very slippery or uneven surfaces. Lastly, the weight of the shoe is around 2.4 pounds, which is slightly heavier than some alternatives, but still manageable for walking.

The Brooks Men’s Ghost 16 is a strong choice for men seeking comfortable and supportive walking shoes, especially if you plan to spend a lot of time on your feet. It offers a secure and seamless fit thanks to its 3D Fit Print design, which helps the shoe stay snug without feeling tight. Its cushioning is a standout feature, using nitrogen-infused DNA Loft v3 foam that feels soft yet light, making each step feel smooth and comfortable. This also helps with gentle shock absorption, which can reduce foot fatigue during long walks. The shoe provides neutral arch support, suitable for those with average arches who don’t need extra medical support. Breathability is well addressed by the engineered mesh upper, allowing good airflow to keep your feet cool and dry.

On durability, the RoadTack rubber outsole is designed to be tough and long-lasting while also being lightweight, and it offers adequate traction for walking on roads and typical urban surfaces. The shoe’s weight is light at just over a pound, which helps with ease of movement. One minor drawback might be that the shoe is optimized more for road running and walking rather than rough trails, so if you want shoes for hiking or uneven terrain, these may not provide enough grip. Additionally, while the cushioning is soft and comfortable, those needing strong arch support or specialized orthopedic features may want to look elsewhere.

The Brooks Ghost 16 fits well for everyday walkers and runners who want a comfortable, breathable shoe with solid cushioning and reliable durability on paved surfaces.

The Skechers Men's Go Flex Hands Free Slip-ins are designed with convenience and comfort in mind. Their slip-on style, combined with an exclusive heel pillow, helps keep your foot snug without the hassle of laces, making them a great choice for easy everyday wear. Weight-wise, they are quite light at about 1.4 pounds, which helps reduce fatigue during long walks.

The shoe uses ULTRA GO cushioning paired with Air-Cooled Memory Foam insoles, offering responsive and breathable comfort that supports your feet well over time. Although specific arch support details are not the focus, the memory foam and cushioned insole provide a moderate level of support suitable for most foot types. The mesh upper ensures breathability, helping keep your feet cool and dry.

For traction, the sole features a multi-surface stabilized and flexible design with Flex Pillars, providing reliable grip on various surfaces, making these shoes versatile for different walking conditions. The outer materials and sole are synthetic, which tends to be durable but may not last as long as some leather options if used heavily outdoors. These shoes represent a solid choice for men seeking lightweight, breathable, and easy-to-wear walking shoes with good cushioning and decent traction, especially for casual use and cross-training activities.