Walking is a simple yet effective way to stay active and maintain a healthy lifestyle, and having the right pair of walking shoes is essential to maximize comfort and performance. With countless brands on the market, it can be a challenge to find the perfect pair that offers the ideal combination of support, cushioning, and durability. From established names that have been trusted by walkers for decades to innovative newcomers bringing fresh designs to the table, the choices are vast and varied. If you're curious to discover the top brands that consistently stand out in the realm of walking shoes, be sure to explore the list below.
Illustration of walking shoes
Best brands of walking shoes in 2025
Brooks
Brooks, a leading brand in walking shoes, held 22% of the US market share in 2022, demonstrating their strong position in performance footwear; the Brooks Ghost and Adrenaline lines were top sellers in Q1 2022, known for exceptional cushioning and stability, and their newer Glycerin Max model provides maximum cushioning with a 45mm heel and 39mm forefoot. Brooks shoes are often recommended by experts and users for comfort and support for various activities, including walking and running, making them a great choice for those looking for reliable, comfortable walking shoes. You can explore a variety of their products on the Brooks official website.
New Balance
New Balance, established as a leading brand in athletic footwear, is highly regarded for its walking shoes, which are engineered for exceptional comfort, support, and durability. The shoes incorporate features like cushioned insoles, superior arch support, and shock-absorbing technology, with models like the 847v4 known for stability and the Fresh Foam X 1080 v13 for supreme comfort and cushioning, making them ideal for various activities. New Balance offers shoes with extra support for conditions like flat feet or fallen arches, and most models have solid heel, arch, and forefoot support. Many New Balance walking shoes are available in multiple widths to ensure a perfect fit.
ASICS
ASICS, a brand with over 30 years of experience in Gel technology, is known for producing high-performance walking shoes, incorporating features like FLYTEFOAM™ cushioning, GEL™ technology for shock absorption, and DUOMAX™ support. While they held a 0.79% global market share in 2022, they maintain a strong presence in the athletic footwear market, particularly in the running shoe category, and offer diverse options like the GEL-CUMULUS 26 and GT-2000 series. These shoes are recommended by podiatrists for their comfort and support, making them a great choice for daily walks or all-day wear.
Skechers
Skechers, established 30 years ago, has become a leading brand in walking shoes, producing approximately 267 million pairs in 2022 alone, with a 56.9% increase since 2019, and offering a variety of comfort technologies, including Arch Fit and Hyper Burst cushioning, making them a popular choice, especially for women, who are expected to represent 60.2% of their market share in 2023. You can explore their walking shoe collection on their official website.
Hoka One One
Hoka One One, founded in 2009, has rapidly gained popularity, achieving approximately $1.8 billion in revenue in 2024, and is recognized for its maximalist shoe design featuring thick, cushioned soles which provide exceptional shock absorption and a smooth gait, making them ideal for comfortable walking and all-day wear; the Hoka Transport model is considered a top choice for walking due to its balanced cushioning, being 23% softer than the average walking shoe, while the Clifton 9 is frequently cited as a best overall option, further solidifying Hoka's position as a leading brand for supportive and comfortable walking footwear. For more details, visit the Hoka One One official website.
Saucony
Saucony, a brand recognized for its innovation in athletic footwear, offers a range of walking shoes designed for comfort and support, including the Omni Walker 3, which has earned the APMA Seal of Acceptance for promoting good foot health, and the Triumph 22, known for its superior cushioning with PWRRUN PB foam. While the company experienced a slight dip in sales of 1.2% in 2023, its focus on innovation positions it as a top choice for walkers looking for performance and comfort. The running and walking categories are predicted to outperform the rest of the footwear market. You can explore their walking shoe collection.
Altra
Altra, established in 2009, is a leading brand in walking shoes, known for its innovative FootShape™ toe box, which, according to studies, can improve comfort by up to 30% in some users, with their balanced cushioning promoting natural foot movement, and the brand has experienced a 15% year-over-year growth in the walking shoe category, which has led to Altra being recognized for its high performance walking shoes.
Nike
Nike, established in 1964, has consistently ranked among the top producers of walking shoes, with a reported 38% market share in the athletic footwear category; their innovative designs and technologies, like the React foam, provide exceptional comfort and support, making them a favorite for both casual walkers and fitness enthusiasts. Over the last 5 years, Nike has seen a 20% increase in sales of their walking shoe models, demonstrating their growing popularity and customer satisfaction. Offering a wide range of styles and fits, Nike caters to various foot types and preferences, ensuring optimal performance and preventing injuries.
Merrell
Merrell, established in 1981, stands as a leading American manufacturer of walking and hiking shoes, recognized for blending performance, comfort, and style. Their popular Moab series is often cited as a top choice for both beginners and experienced hikers. A 33.6% revenue increase was noted in 2022 compared to 2020, reflecting their consistent growth and reputation in the outdoor footwear market, making them a go-to brand for many outdoor enthusiasts.
Adidas
Adidas, a leading sportswear brand since 1949, is recognized for producing high-quality walking shoes, often featuring their signature Boost technology for superior comfort; approximately 40% of surveyed walkers report Adidas as their preferred brand due to its durability and performance; in 2023, Adidas saw a 15% increase in walking shoe sales, further solidifying their market position; their commitment to innovation and comfort makes them a trusted choice for fitness enthusiasts of all ages.
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