Not many put all that much thought into it but it is important to get the right kind of shoes for each type of activity. An average person will probably do not bother to actually buy walking shoes and will regret not getting a pair at a certain point. Most people discover just how useful they are when they go on a vacation to visit a foreign country or city. When that moment comes, not having a decent pair of shoes will result in back pain and aches in the angles. In fact, things can go even further, and due to the lack of proper shoes, some trips might even end earlier.
Why Makes Walking Shoes So Great?
Walking shoes have several features that make them simply a must when having to travel on foot for longer distances. Their design has been engineered to protect the feet from walking on hard surfaces. Also, they absorb some of the shocks experienced when walking thus preventing back pain. Their interior is usually well cushioned to provide as much comfort as possible, and for the sports models, they usually feature vents that prevent sweating.
Another important feature is their sole. It is usually made out of a durable foam that is very flexible and lightweight. Some walking shoes are designed to be used when the weather conditions are unfavorable. These models are usually a bit heavier, but they provide the same comfort. Regular walking shoes are usually lightweight. They are not the lighters type of shoes, but they are good enough to feel comfortable even when walking for an entire day. Since they are actually designed to be used for long walks, it also means that they are quite resilient to wear-and-tear.
The Good, The Bad, and The Ugly
Since most people choose their shoes based on their designed, we attempted to narrow down a short list of 10 different shoes that look great and serve their stated utility of providing comfort when walking. Since there is no universal model that will be appealing to everyone we managed to include a good diversity of shoes. Let’s get right into our list of the top 10 best walking shoes for men in 2020.
Best Walking Shoes In 2019
Last update on 2020-02-19 / Affiliate links / Price / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
10. Dream Pairs Men’s Sport Flexible Walking Shoes
Even if Dream Pairs is a brand with which many might not be familiar with, their shoes can be considered a strong competition for the bigger names in the industry. The flexible walking shoes they offer have a simple design that has some sports elements but maintains a conservative look. They are similar to regular slip-on shoes, but the sole is different. It is a bit thicker, and it is a one piece mold that offers decent flexibility when walking and a comfortable cushioning especially on solid surfaces such as concrete.
In terms of design, the shoes are made out of a textile material in two tones. They have some leather elements around the heel and to the sides. They do not have any kind of laces, but they have an elastic mesh that makes them fit perfectly. The model is very lightweight and can be purchased in multiple different colors to match any kind of clothing style.
- Lightweight
- Inexpensive
- Comfortable
- They can soak a lot of water due to the textile material
- Not enough protection for the ankles
9. Asics Men’s GEL-Tech Walker Neo 4 Walking Shoe
Asics GEL-Tech Walker Neo 4 Walking shoes are a great pick for men that are looking for something to fit a sports look. They are a great choice for casual walks and even for taking on a trip. They are pretty much decent for any type of activities that involve walking. They look quite similar to a regular pair of running shoes, but they are actually not recommended for walking as they do not provide a good enough grip. For walking, they work great.
The shoes are made mostly out of synthetic leather and mesh on the front and sides. This allows the air to enter the shoe and prevent overheating of the heat and reducing sweat. At the same time, the shoes have a thick sole which prevents the feet from heating up from hot asphalt. The sole is made out of a foam material which means it is flexible and lightweight. The shoes are available in two different colors, but they are a bit more expensive than other walking shoes.
- Well balanced and lightweight
- Prevents overheating
- Good ankle protection
- Expensive
- Allows water to go inside the shoes
8. Rockport Men’s We are Rockin Chranson Walking Shoe
Rockport We are Rocking Chranson walking shoes we designed mainly with comfort in mind. While they might not be the most stylish model in our list their purpose is clear. The shoes are meant to make long walks a lot more enjoyable. They will prove to be an excellent companion for frequent travelers that enjoy sightseeing. Surprisingly they are also reasonably priced and have a very durable construction using only genuine leather.
Almost the entire shoe is made out of natural leather. Its sole is made out of rubber and foam in order to provide a bit of cushioning when walking on hard surfaces. The footbed of the shoe is made out of latex while the upper is made out of suede and synthetic fabrics. For the sake of diversity, the manufacturers offer the model in black and brown leather.
- Inexpensive
- Made using genuine leather
- Soft foam sole
- Unappealing design for some
7. RYKA Women’s Sky Walking Shoe
RYKA is a small brand that has been making a few interesting pairs of shoes. The Women’s Sky walking shoes have managed to gain popularity due to the way they are designed and how lightweight they feel. At the same time, they can be found for a rather modest price, but this can vary a bit depending on the outlet selling them.
In terms of construction, the shoes are made out of a combination of synthetic leather and mesh that prevents sweating and improves the entire walking experience. Their sole combines rubber for the outer with foam. This provides some sort of cushioning especially when walking throughout a city. The model itself can be found in multiple color combinations including gray, blue, pink, white and much more.
- Lightweight
- Plenty of mesh to allow air to ventilate the interior
- Low price tag
- Not as durable as some would like
6. Reebok Men’s Work N Cushion Walking Shoe
The Reebok Work N Cushion walking shoes are not for everyone. Their design might not seem as appealing as some would like but their utility makes them a top pick especially since they are one of the most affordable pairs of shoes in our list. They are built quite well and can improve comfort while preventing pain in the legs associated with long walks.
The shoes themselves will prove to be excellent for visiting and sightseeing. They have a foam sole with interior cushioning that provides both comfort and support. The design of the shoes is fairly simple and come in a single color. They combine synthetic leather with some mesh. The only downside is the fact that they do not provide good interior ventilation.
- Inexpensive
- Comfortable
- Poor ventilation
5. New Balance Men’s MW577 Walking Shoe
New Balance MW577 will prove to be an excellent pick for the ones that need to walk a lot. They have a bulkier design with an all leather construction that offers protection against bad weather such as low temperatures and rain. Their waterproof design will help make any walk pleasant even when the weather is unfavorable.
For the money, users will get a pair of shoes mate entirely out of leather. Their sole is a bit more rigid, but it is soft enough to reduce leg pain caused by walking. The shoes have a stylish design with nothing too fancy. They are made to fit almost all clothing styles, and they even have a waterproof construction. This means that they do not have any mesh parts and they might cause overheating inside during hot days.
- Stylish
- Inexpensive
- Surprisingly lightweight
- Should not be used in hot sunny days
4. Skechers Performance Women’s Go Walk 2 Slip-On Walking Shoe
The main reason why the Skechers Performance Go Walk 2 Slip-on walking shoes are so popular is their design. They were made to be extremely lightweight, comfortable and very stylish. With their minimalistic design, the shoes will fit most clothing styles and the fact that they can be purchased in black, blue, gray or white just adds, even more, options. They are excellent for women that enjoy to travel and visit cities.
One interesting aspect about the shoes is the materials used. They are made entirely out of a fabric material that has a soft texture and a mesh type of pattern that prevents overheating inside the shoes. Their sole is made out of rubber, and they have a slip-on design with no Velcro straps or laces.
- Very comfortable
- Inexpensive
- Lightweight
- Stylish
- Can slip off the foot if sizing is not proper
3. New Balance Men’s MW577 Leather Hook-and-Loop Walking Shoe
The New Balance MW577 Hook-and-Loop Walking shoes are a different version of the model that comes with shoe laces. They have been replaced with Velcro straps which add a bit of convenience when wearing them. It is very easy to put them on and just as easy to take them off with almost no effort at all. At the same time, they have a snug fit that makes it much easier to walk over long distances.
Looking at their design, the shoes are quite simple and stylish. They do not have the classic sports look that is common amongst running shoes which are why they work with various clothing types. They are made using genuine leather with a soft sole and do not have any kind of venting.
- Inexpensive
- Leather construction
- Velcro straps instead of laces
- Will cause the interior to overheat in a hot summer day
2. Skechers Performance Men’s Go Walk 3 Slip-On Walking Shoe
Skechers Performance Men’s Go Walk 3 Slip-On walking shoes are actually similar to the version designed for women. They have some minor cosmetic changes that make them suitable for men. With a simple design and lightweight construction, the shoes provide an improved walking experience. Also, being much lighter makes them much easier to pack which is a great plus especially for travelers.
The model is made out of a textile material that imitates mesh. This makes it much easier to properly ventilate the interior especially since they are designed to be used during the summer. The rubber sole offers decent grip, and it is flexible enough to make walking much more pleasant.
- Affordable
- Lightweight
- Easy to pack
- Stylish
- None
1. Skechers Performance Women’s Go Walk Slip-On Walking Shoe
Skechers Performance Go Slip-On walking shoes for women are by far the most popular model in our list. There are plenty of good things that can be said about the shoes but what is most notable is the comfort they offer and how lightweight they feel. Despite being so lightweight, they have a thick enough sole that provides good protection when walking even an entire day.
The model itself is made out of a thin textile material. Even if it does not have any perforations, it does not cause overheating. Also, they are very easy to put on since they use a flexible material that makes them not require any shoe laces. The model can be purchased in several different color combinations.
- Lightweight
- Easy to pack
- Affordable
- Stylish
- None
A Few Things To Keep In Mind
Walking shoes need to be comfortable above anything else. Many people put comfort aside for a stylish design which is understandable. An ideal situation is to combine them both and have a stylish pair of walking shoes that are also comfortable at the same time.
One aspect that some will be interested in is how easy the shoes are to pack. Most of the people that are looking for walking shoes will at some point used them for traveling. This means that they need to take as little space as possible inside a suitcase. Not all models can be packed easily, and this should be something to look for. Other than that, a good pair of walking shoes does not have to be expensive. There are plenty of great walking shoe models that are affordable, stylish and very comfortable.
After seeing this list I was, to say the least, shocked. I have been in the shoe industry for many years. I have studied construction of and how the human body (yes the body not just the feet) are affected by shoes. There are 2 brands I will suggest for those that are seriously interested. Ecco is an outstanding brand. They will last you a very long time also. Mid price range. Mephisto, yes these are quite expensive but well worth the money. But please be fitted properly. It is very, very important. Generally Americans like an overly tight shoe. In Europe where walking is the norm they wear their shoes differently and they have healthier feet, backs etc. Not all sales people really know how to fit shoes for walking properly. Feet need breathing and moving room. Mephistos are actually worn quite loose. I hope for those of you interested this will at least put you on the trail of a correct fitting shoe with high standards. And once you experience what it is like you will never, ever, ever go back. Happy walking!