Contrary to popular belief, you cannot just wear any shoes when you go out walking. Just like some shoes have been designed for certain activities, there are also shoes that are to be used specifically for walking. But, with so many options available, finding the right pair of shoes for walking long distances can be a tough nut to crack. Luckily, we have combed the internet and have come up with the best options for you.
Contents
Parts of a Walking Shoe
When finding the right pair of long-distance walking shoes, it is important to focus on five key areas of the shoes to make sure you get the right amount of support and balance for your feet. The following are the main areas that need to be focused on when buying the best long-distance walking shoes for men.
Heel-counter
This is the area of the walking shoes that holds the back of the heel. It is located just under the Achilles tendon, and it keeps your heel secure, while improving your balance. It is important to make sure that this area of the walking shoes you get is snug and not too tight or else it could result in swollen or bruised feet. Ideally, the heel counter of the shoe should cup the heel gently, providing it with the right amount of support as you walk. A walking shoe that has a good heel-counter design can prevent feet conditions such as supination and pronation.
Insole
The insole is located inside the shoe at the bottom. This is the area where your feet come in contact with the sole. The insole of walking shoes needs to be soft and contoured so that your feet remain comfortable while walking long distances. This is the reason why the insoles of walking shoes are designed to provide shock absorption as you walk or run.
Midsole
The midsole area of the walking shoes that you get is the area between the cloth upper and the tread of the shoes. This has got to be one of the most important parts of the shoe since it provides the most sensitive part of your feet with the right amount of cushioning while you walk. The midsoles of walking shoes are constructed from a variety of materials, depending on the manufacturer, which has a direct impact on the amount of support and flexibility that the midsole provides.
Toe Box
The toe box is the area that protects your toes. The design of the toe box needs to provide your toes with the right amount of comfort and protection while walking. A well-designed toe box is one that protects your toes from sudden impacts, while also providing a good amount of wiggle room so that your toes are not cramped. It is important to note that comfortable walking shoes are those that have a toe box which provides enough space so that moving your toes is unrestricted. As a rule of thumb, the toe box of walking shoes should have a full thumb’s width of space between the end of your large toe to the end of the toe box.
Outsole
The outsole is another area that you need to pay attention to when getting walking shoes. The last thing you would want is to lose your balance or footing because the outsoles of your walking shoes have not been constructed properly. Since the outsoles of the shoes are responsible for preventing slip and fall accidents, it is important to get a shoe that keeps you from slipping when walking on certain surfaces. Walking shoes that have been designed with the right outsole prevents you from slipping and also provides you with better traction so that your feet do not get fatigued easily. Shoes that have been designed with a good outsole allows you to firmly plant your feet on the floor so that you do not slip and injure yourself.
Features of a Long-Distance Walking Shoes
The different features of long-distance walking shoes are going to determine your level of comfort when you wear these shoes. The following are some of the features to consider when choosing the right long-distance walking shoes.
Comfort
You are going to need long-distance walking shoes that are comfortable so that your feet don’t cramp up after being worn for a few hours. This is one of the reasons why the comfort of the shoe should always be your top priority. While you are walking there’s a good chance that your feet with sweat. There can be nothing worse than sweaty feet, especially when it comes to long-distance walking. This is mainly because walking for long distances wearing damp shoes can result in your feet getting sores and blisters which can be extremely painful.
The comfort level of walking shoes or any type of shoe for that matter is determined by its fit and breathability. When you are buying long-distance walking shoes then it is important to choose the shoes that offer a nice, snug fit and high breathability so that your feet can remain dry and comfortable even after prolonged use.
Arch Type
When it comes to long-distance walking shoes one area that needs to be considered is the amount of arch support that the shoe offers. This is important because of the intricate alignment of the muscles, bones, tendons, and ligaments of the feet. As we walk, the spring-like, flexible arches of our feet distribute the weight of the body throughout the feet. This is why it is important to find a walking shoe that offers the right amount of support for your arch type. The following are the three different categories that arch types can be divided into for walking shoes.
Neutral Arched Feet
Our feet are not too arched nor are they too flat. This means that when you’re looking for the ideal amount of arch for your feet, that falls somewhere in the middle. Keeping that in mind, it is important to search for shoes that have a firm midsole along with straight or semi-curved lasts (this is the shape of the sole and the footprint around which all shoes are built.
Low Arched
A low arch also known as flat feet can lead to unnecessary muscle tension and stress while walking and can damage the ligaments and tendons of your feet after some time. If you do happen to have flat feet, you should always choose walking shoes that feature a straight designed last along with proper motion control so that your feet are properly stabilized while you walk.
High Arched Feet
A high arch shoe may contribute to strain on the joints and muscles of the feet since it cannot provide proper shock absorption. This is why it is important for you to always look for long-distance walking shoes that provide the right amount of cushioning to compensate for the lack of natural shock absorption caused by the high arched design. In this case, having a curved last can help support your feet.
If you do not have an idea of your foot type, then dip your foot in water and place it on a dry piece of paper. If most of your footprint is visible, you have low arches. If very little is visible, then you have got high arches. Now that you have an idea of what’s your feet type, you can make a more informed decision when it comes to investing in long-distance walking shoes.
Fabric and Materials
Walking shoes are available in a variety of materials. The heels of the walking shoes are usually constructed from thermoplastic polyurethane or TPU. Walking shoes that feature TPU heels offer a solid base and better shock absorption. These types of shoes are also much more durable as compared to other heel types.
Leather is the go-to choice when it comes to manufacturing walking shoes. Most types of leathers are soft and supple and provide a snug fit. Because of this, they are a lot easier to walk with. There are also walking shoes that are made with a variety of synthetic materials which also offer the same level of comfort as leather walking shoes.
Breathability
When it comes to wearing long-distance walking shoes, breathability should be at the top of the list for obvious reasons. Those walking shoes that offer a high level of breathability ensures that your feet are not going to be sweaty even after prolonged use. This ensures that you are not going to get any sores or blisters on your feet even after wearing the shoes for many hours.
Another important consideration when buying long-distance walking shoes is the weather where you will be walking in. If you are going to go for a walk somewhere where it’s hot, then your feet are going to sweat more and will soon become uncomfortable after walking for a while. To make sure your feet do not get sweaty, it’s best to go with long-distance walking shoes that offer the right amount of breathability so that your feet remain comfortable.
Protection Against Moisture
According to the American Podiatric Medical Association (APMA), the condition of sweaty feet or hyperhidrosis can take place at any time regardless of whether a person is feeling hot or not. While the condition may also be inherited, having sweaty feet can result in many issues with your feet which will be more serious than just smelly feet. Purchasing long-distance walking shoes that have been constructed with breathable materials means that the moisture gets wicked rather than trapped inside of the walking shoes.
Shock Absorption
Walking long distances can take its toll on your feet. This is why you are going to need walking shoes that deliver the right amount of shock absorption so that your feet do not take a pounding when you go on your long-distance treks.
To give you an idea of what your feet are against, for a 10-mile hike, a person takes an average of 10,000 paces, which is a lot if you do not have the right shoes giving your feet the support and protection they need. This can easily result in you injuring your feet or getting painful sores and blisters. The right amount of shock absorption that’s delivered by the insole, midsole and outer sole of the walking shoes will keep your feet safe and protected even while walking long distances.
Sturdiness and Durability
Durability is another crucial factor to consider when choosing long-distance walking shoes. To make sure you get the most out of your walking shoes, it’s best to choose a shoe from a well-known brand that has been known to deliver quality footwear. Going with a well-known brand is going to ensure that you get the best quality walking shoes for long-distance walks. That being said, you don’t have to spend an arm and a leg while investing in long-distance walking shoes from a big-name brand.
Durability is often gauged by the outsole for the shoes apart from the overall construction. The construction includes significant and minor factors such as the synthetic fibers used on the shoes and the adhesives that are used for stickiness. If your shoes lack any of the high-quality materials required for decent durability, they won’t last long. Nowadays, there are plenty of manufacturers that offer sturdy and well-built walking shoes that are also highly affordable. Before choosing footwear, it’s best to do your research to make sure you get the bang for your buck.
Traction and Stability
When investing in long-distance walking shoes, you will also want one that provides you with the right amount of traction and stability. People who walk for long distances often complain that their footwear does not have the right amount of padding and protection to keep their feet safe from unexpected impact. It has also been noted that walking shoes that have not been constructed well tend to lose their stability over time. To make sure your walking shoes deliver the right amount of traction and stability for your feet it is important to choose a good brand that offers superior quality walking shoes that you can use for walking long distances.
Style Over Substance
If you make the right choice and choose walking shoes from a good quality brand then it is possible to get both style and substance with your walking shoes. That being said, the appearance of your shoes should never be the sole concern when buying the shoe, there isn’t any harm in considering the aesthetics of the shoe while buying a pair of your choice. While there’s nothing wrong with getting the shoes you like, if you plan on going for long walks often, then you might want to consider buying shoes that have been built for the task rather than shoes that are just attractive to look at. Thanks to the advancements in technology, nowadays, it is possible to find shoes that are nice to look, functional and durable.
Estimated Break-In Time
The amount of time that it takes for a user of the shoes to feel comfortable while walking in them is called the break-in time. It is important to note that the estimated break-in type when it comes to walking shoes is going to vary depending on the brand that you choose. That being said, any walking shoes that takes more than a few weeks to break in to and start to feel comfortable is not going to be a good choice, especially if you’re going to be using the shoes for long-distance walks.
The break-in period is mainly going to depend on the quality of the materials that have been used for its construction. This means the quality of the leather and fabric used for the upper and the insole, along with the presence or absence of any inner lining. It is also important to note that while walking shoes tend to be rough and rugged, those that have been constructed using full-grain leather with a cushioned layer and padded collar tend to be easier to feel comfortable in after a week of use.
Size Adjustments
The sizing of walking shoes is usually given in a size chart that’s provided by the manufacturer. This is to ensure that you get the right size shoe for your long-distance walking. A fit that is too tight, narrow, short or having too much space between your foot and the shoes will lead to pain and discomfort when using to walk long distances, which is why you need to find the right size shoe.
Value for Money
When shopping for walking shoes, people tend to go with the shoes that are available at the lowest possible price. This can be a big mistake since low priced shoes often mean inferior quality. The reason why those shoes are low-priced in the first place is that they have not been constructed using the best quality materials.
The lifespan of such footwear is often not more than a year or less, which means you will have to spend money on getting another pair of shoes within a matter of months. To make sure you get the most value for your money it is important to choose walking shoes from well-known brands and read reviews of the manufacturers online before you choose a particular shoe. This will ensure that you invest in a good quality shoe that will go the distance regardless of how much you walk. Keeping that in mind, the brand names that have been provided here are of some of the most sought-after walking shoe manufacturers in the world.
Read Also: Best Walking Shoes for Overweight Walkers
Our Top Three Choices
Best Overall Choice: Puma Men’s Drift Cat 5 Ultra Walking Shoes
Premium Product: Adidas Outdoor Men’s Terrex AX2R
Best Value: Asics Men’s GEL-Tech Walker New 4 Walking Shoe
Best Long-Distance Walking Shoes
1. Asics Men’s GEL-Tech Walker New 4 Walking Shoe
The Asics Men’s GEL-Tech Walker New 4 Walking Shoe has got to be one of the more appealing shoes that’s available in the market in terms of style and comfort. This is the updated version of Asics walker shoes which offers more support for your feet along with better shock absorption and many other features that you would want to find in a walking shoe.
Some of the stand out features of the Asics Men’s GEL-Tech Walker New 4 Walking Shoe is the inclusion of DuoMax and Trusstic system that provides your feet with an ample amount of support when you’re walking. The ortholite sock liner makes sure that your feet stay comfortable even after walking long distances. The superior comfort that’s provided by these shoes is one of the reasons why they are often recommended for people who are suffering from a foot condition known as plantar fasciitis or flat arches which can be extremely painful.
Pros and Cons:
Pros:
- 100% premium materials
- Breathable fabric upper
- Superior durability
- Specially padded tongue and collar
- Sturdy lace-up closure
Cons:
- Small toe box
2. Puma Men’s Drift Cat 5 Ultra Walking Shoes
The Puma Men’s Drift Cat 5 Ultra Walking Shoes comes highly rated as one of the best shoes for those who love to walk for miles. What makes these shoes a great option for avid walkers is its simple design and superior functionality. With low-profile styling features and full-grain leather construction, this is one of those walking shoes that offer a unique combination of flexibility and style.
Not only do you get a premium look with the high-quality full-grain leather that’s been used in its construction, but you also get lots of features that make it a good choice for long-distance walking. Some of the main features of the Puma Men’s Drift Cat 5 Ultra Walking Shoes is its traction gripping outsole and TPU cushioned midsole that provides you with just the right amount of shock absorption for your feet while you walk.
Pros and Cons:
Pros:
- Premium quality leather
- Sleek and streamlined design
- Sturdy laces
- TPU cushioned midsoles for better shock absorption
- Dark color outsole conceals any abrasions
Cons:
- Some might find the size narrow and tight
3. Adidas Outdoor Men’s Terrex AX2R
The Adidas Outdoor Men’s Terrex AX2R walking offers a comfortable fit and a great in-shoe feel which makes it a great choice for those who are looking forward towards going on long walks in these shoes. This model is primarily aimed at hikers, which is why it’s extremely tough and durable and should handle the most perilous of terrains. If you often find yourself traversing through un-even paths, the Terrex AX2R is just what you need.
What’s great about the design of the Adidas Outdoor Men’s Terrex AX2R is that although the material of these shoes is durable and tough, these shoes only weigh around 12 ounces. One of the key features of the Terrex AX2R is that it is water-resistant, so you can go walking in the rain. These shoes are also breathable so your feet are less likely to sweat.
Other features include, EVA cushioning that enhances comfort and ADI-PRENE support that should protect your feet from the impact of the ground. The TRAXION outsole of these shoes should provide you solid traction and grip even in wet conditions. The Terrex AX2R also boasts a molded sock liner that makes it more comfortable.
Pros and Cons:
Pros:
- Study and durable
- Rubberized sole
- Lace-up closure
- Padded tongue and collar
- Comfortable fit
Cons:
- Heavy design
4. Merrell Men’s Moab Ventilator Hiking Shoe
As the name implies, the Merrell Men’s Moab Ventilator Hiking Shoe has been designed for hikers, so you know that you’re getting great quality right out the box. These shoes are the ideal choice for all those who love to go on long walks without having to experience pain and discomfort when they return.
The leather uppers of these shoes have been specially designed to work in tandem with a breathable mesh lining to keep your feet dry and comfortable. The Moab Ventilator Hiking shoes also feature a leather toe cap that offers a better grip while walking on difficult terrain.
One of the key features of these walking shoes is the compression molded foot frame which provides better cushioning and heel air cushion to absorb shock and add stability. A sturdy Vibram sole ensures solid traction on both dry and wet surfaces, which makes these walking shoes the best choice if you take walks in an area where it starts to rain at the drop of a hat.
Pros and Cons:
Pros:
- Made from premium quality materials
- Comfortable and durable
- Water-resistant
- Vibram sole provides solid traction
- Breathable
Cons:
- Expensive
5. New Balance Men’s Cruz V2 Fresh Foam Shoe
New Balance Fresh Foam walking shoes boasts of aesthetic appeal and functionality. The midsoles and cushioning have been designed to absorb shock and wick moisture from inside the shoes. The heels of these walking shoes have also been specially designed with extra padding that acts as a cushion to protect your heels from impact. The inserts within the shoes are easily removable, so you can modify them based on your personal preferences. The fit for these shoes is different than most others in the market.
The cushioning technology makes walking for longer periods as easy as possible. The shoes will safeguard your feet and you can easily jog across terrain or rough patches. Additionally, you can easily remove the removable insoles to replace them with custom orthotics. The custom orthotics will allow for a customized experience for all. The technology used to create these shoes adds to the overall flexibility and makes this pair a stylish and convenient option for everyone. The convenient slip-on design makes these shoes easy to wear and remove.
Pros and Cons:
Pros:
- Made from premium quality materials
- A synthetic saddle on the midfoot
- Support lacing feature
- Removable inserts
- Heel cushioning
- Breathable mesh
Cons:
- Small toe box can be inconvenient
6. Yonex Power Cushion Eclipsion 2
The Yonex Power Cushion Eclipsion 2 boasts of some amazing features which makes it a good option for avid walkers. These shoes boast of a convenient double Russel mesh on the top that makes them extremely light-weight and durable. The YONEX Men`s Power Cushion Eclipsion can be defined as comfortable, flexible and convenient for the everyday tennis player.
The Guard Durable Skin on top of these shoes makes sure that they live their due life and don’t lose their shape before their expected lifespan. The durable skin is also responsible for giving these shoes their glow and the aesthetic look they have. The midsole for the YONEX Men`s Power Cushion Eclipsion is the best in the market as it comes with a three-layer cushioning system. The shoe moves with your foot and gives stability and comfort on the way. These shoes also feature Toughbird Light Engineering makes these shoes durable, yet lightweight at the same time.
Pros and Cons:
Pros:
- Made from high-quality materials
- Features a double Russel mesh upper
- Features New Power Cushion+ Technology
- Features three layers of cushioning
- Shock absorbing midsole
- Lightweight
Cons:
- Not for long-term use
7. Salomon Men’s Speedcross 3 Trail Shoe
The Salomon Men’s Speedcross 3 Trail Shoe has been designed for both walking and running. The cushioning isn’t just limited to the inside of the Speedcross 3 but extends to the bottom, ensuring that you don’t hurt your feet from stepping on a rock or any other sharp thing. These shoes are also lightly water-resistant, but the main focus of the design is breathability.
Some of the stand out features of these shoes are the water-resistant construction and anti-debris mesh upper. The non-marking rubber outsole ensures that these shoes can take quite the beating without getting bruised or marked. Other features include the Ortholite insole and rubber toe cap for added protection while you walk.
Salomon promises a precise fit with its Sensifit system that ensures an exact fit. The inclusion of an EVA midsole provides your feet with just the right amount of support. The soles of the Speedcross 3 are designed with Contragrip to ensure that you get a solid grip regardless of weather conditions. All you have to do is pull the polyester cord and the laces will tighten evenly. The overall design, functionality and lightweight construction of the Salomon Men’s Speedcross 3 Trail Shoe makes it a great choice for those who love to go on long walks frequently.
Pros and Cons:
Pros:
- Made from premium quality material
- Anti-debris mesh
- Features Contragrip
- Dual-density EVA midsole
- Water-resistant
Cons:
- Sizes run small
8. KEEN Men’s Saltzman Wp-m Hiking Shoe
The KEEN Men’s Saltzman Wp-m Hiking Shoe has been designed specifically for hikers, but it can be used as a good option for going on long walks on uneven trails as well. Since these shoes have been built for hikers, you can expect to get extra stability and better traction. Some of the main features of these walking shoes are the waterproof upper mesh for comfort and dryness. It is designed to release vapors, ensuring that water doesn’t penetrate your shoes.
These shoes are also equipped with exceptional cushioning, courtesy of dual-density EVA footbed. The outsole is made of rubber and provides that much-needed grip and traction, even in wet conditions. Other features also include a toe guard for better protection and lace-up vamp for centralized support. He lugged outsole has been designed to provide you with superior traction while walking.
Pros and Cons:
Pros:
- Made from high-quality materials
- Water-resistant
- Lace-up vamp for centralized support
- Good grip and traction even in wet conditions
Cons:
- Not too comfortable
9. Dr. Comfort Carter Men’s Casual Shoe
These easy to maintain shoes is just what the doctor ordered if you plan on going on long walks. Composed entirely of Lycra, the Dr. Comfort Carter Men’s Casual Shoe is soft, comfortable and incredibly functional at the same time. These shoes have been designed for walking, so you should expect a comfortable walk every time.
The Lycra material is good at keeping the shoes breathable, allowing you to run your daily errands with-out feeling overheated. The Dr. Comfort Carter Men’s Casual Shoes also feature hook-and-loop closure that should allow you to tailor the fit to suit your needs.
Since these shoes are made with high-quality materials and feature no seams, they are going to hold up a while so you won’t have to worry about replacing them any time soon. The only area where Dr. Comfort Carter Casual Shoes are lacking is the looks, but that wouldn’t be too much of a concern for you when you are suffering from swollen feet.
Pros and Cons:
Pros:
- Made from high-quality materials
- Seamless design
- Breathable and durable Lycra material
- Hook-and-loop closure for added convenience
Cons:
- Not as aesthetically pleasing
10. Nike Men’s Zoom Fly Athletic
If you’re looking for traction, support, and comfort while walking then you have got to get the Nike Men’s Zoom Fly Athletic for obvious reasons. These shoes have been designed for athletes so you can rest assured that you are going to be getting a great product right off the bat. These shoes also come with all of the usual bells and whistles that one would expect to find in walking shoes.
Zoom Air is located in the forefoot of the shoes and consists of low-profile pressurized air pockets which have been designed to flex on contact for responsive cushioning. The Nike Zoom Fly is made to help you with both speed and long-distance. So, these shoes should be your go-to option for improving your race time and taking the step ahead as a professional.
These walking shoes also feature a carbon fiber insert within the sole, which according to Nike can help you finish a marathon if you wanted. The technology behind these shoes also allows you to use your muscles in a limited manner. One of the standout features of the Nike Men’s Zoom Fly Athletic shoes are that they are fully cushioned, providing support and protection for the whole feet. The inclusion of other features such as Phylon Wedge in the midsole foam piece provides added shock absorption for your feet. These shoes are also lightweight and comfortable for wearing for lengthy periods.
Pros and Cons:
Pros:
- Engages 4 percent less of certain muscles in your leg and feet region
- Several color options available within the variety
- Decreases the time you take to cover longer distances
- Unisex design
- Zoom X cushioning for added comfort
- Amazing stability for long-distance runners
- Carbon Fiber insert
Cons:
- Steep price on the higher side
- Some prefer these to be only race day shoes
- Some say that the shoes could have more support
11. Carhartt Men’s CMF6366 Composite Toe Boot
If you’re looking for something that’s a bit more heavy-duty, then the Carhartt Men’s CMF6366 Composite Toe Boot should be right up your alley. The CMF6366 Composite Toe Boot is an attractive and sturdy work boot that delivers in spades. Made from full-grain leather with double and triple stitching, this footwear oozes of style. The CMF6366 Composite Toe Boot features leather that is water-resistant.
Other features include cement construction that makes these boots versatile enough to be used at work or while exploring the outdoors. The boot features a well-padded collar and tongue for a snug fit. An OrthoLite insole provides multiple layers of cushioning along with an anti-odor treatment that’s an added advantage.
The lightweight EVA midsole and steel shank offer better protection for the heels by absorbing any shock produced by the impact. The addition of Rugged Flex technology eases movement and provides better traction. You also get composite toe that offers additional protection for the toe area.
Pros and Cons:
Pros:
- Made with 100% leather
- Features full-grain leather
- EVA midsole
- Rubber outsole with gripping lugs
Cons:
- Isn’t waterproof
12. Reebok Men’s Cloudride DMX 3.0 Walking Shoe
If you’re looking for something a bit more stylish while you go on a walk, then you will want to get yourself the Reebok Men’s Cloudride DMX 3.0 Walking Shoe. These shoes offer you with a snig, and cozy fit while the lightweight design means that you can walk in these whose for hours on end without feeling any pain or discomfort.
The Reebok Men’s Cloudride DMX 3.0 Walking Shoe has a lot going on for it, apart from its sleek design. Some of the added features of these walking shoes include an advanced DMX feature which helps move air freely through the fabric so that your feet stay dry and comfortable. The shoes also boast of messaging foam insoles which are extremely comfortable and provides the perfect amount of shock absorption for your feet. This ensures that the pressure is spread equally throughout the sole so that your feet do not get injured.
Pros and Cons:
Pros:
- Constructed from high-quality materials
- Treaded rubber outsole
- Shock-absorbing foam
- Cushioned mesh tongue for extra comfort
Cons:
- Could be small for some users
13. Skechers Performance Men’s Go Walk 3 Slip-On Walking Shoe
Skechers is a footwear brand that needs no introduction. The Skechers Performance Men’s Go Walk 3 Slip-On Walking Shoe offers an incredible amount of traction and support with the latest footwear technology.
Some of the standout features of these walking shoes include GOga Mat Technology, which is a high rebound cushioning feature that makes sure that all pressure is equally distributed through the feet. Apart from that, the shoes also feature Goga Pillars and a Resalyte midsole with injection-molded compounds that provide superior shock absorption.
Other features of these walking shoes is a multi-directional tractional sole, breathable mesh, a stabilizing panel for better traction as well as memory foam padded heel for better grip on the walking trail. If you are looking for footwear that offers you superior support and traction then going with the Skechers Performance Men’s Go Walk 3 Slip-On Walking Shoe is a no-brainer.
Pros and Cons:
Pros:
- Made from premium quality materials
- Features breathable mesh
- Features a multi-directional tractional sole
- Features a stabilizing heel
Cons:
- Tend to get warm
14. Ahnu Sugarpine II
Ahnu footwear is a brand that caters solely to adventurers which is why its shoes are known for their durability and comfort. The Sugarpine II is a functional walking shoe that offers superior support and unmatched cushioning for your feet. This ensures that your feet remain comfortable even after prolonged use. The best feature of these shoes is its premium quality upper, which includes a mixture of leather and flexible mesh that makes the shoes breathable.
The shoes also feature Aegis Antibacterial construction which keeps odor at bay, which is one of the main requirements for walkers who go out on long walks. The shoes also feature underfoot technology such as Numentum insole which provides your feet with the ideal amount of cushioning and impact protection. The Vibram outsoles of the shoes also help improve traction when walking on uneven surfaces. Another main selling point for the Sugarpine II is its sturdy construction which means that the shoes are incredibly resilient to tears and punctures that are normally expected with walking shoes.
Pros and Cons:
Pros:
- Made from superior quality materials
- Features Aegis Antimicrobial treatment
- Lightweight design
- Features Vibram outsole
Cons:
- Not suitable for wet surfaces
15. Brooks Addiction Walker
Brooks is a footwear manufacturer that’s been designed shoes for over a century. In other words, this is one company that has got shoe designing down to an exact science. Brooks has been a leading brand in designing high-performance and durable footwear. The main features of the Brooks Addiction Walker are its thick synthetic outsoles that have been specially designed with MoGo and MC Pod technology for better shock absorption.
Other features of the Brooks Addiction Walker is its seamless fabric lining which is soft and does not lead to any irritation even after walking in the shoes for many hours. Some other features of these include HydroFlow technology that keeps your feet safe and comfortable. The shoes have been specially designed to provide comfortable cushioning for your feet which makes it another good choice for frequent long-distance walking.
Pros and Cons:
Pros:
- Made with 100% premium materials
- Synthetic sole
- Shock-absorbing outsole
- MoGo Midsole
- Removable sock liner for added comfort
Cons:
- Not ideal for high arches
Final Thoughts
While there are plenty of options when it comes to long-distance walking shoes that are available in the market today, there are only some that offer the right balance between comfort, style, and protection for your feet, especially while going for long walks.
Best
Overall Choice:
The Pump Men’s Drift Cat 5 Ultra Walking Shoes offers a low profile sleek style while providing you with the best in comfort and protection for your feet. Some of the main features of these shoes have got to be the sturdy TPU cushioned midsole which spreads any pressure throughout the shoe so it doesn’t impact a single area and lead to injury. You also get a convenient sturdy lace-up design and an overall tough build quality that will make this walking shoe last for years to come.
Premium Product:
The Adidas Outdoor Men’s Terrex AX2R is another walking shoe that has been designed keeping the customer in mind. This shoe offers excellent cushioning and support for your feet while walking. What makes these shoes unique is that they are incredibly lightweight despite having many cushioning features that have been built into the design of these walking shoes. Some of the features that make these shoes a great option for frequent walking is the rubberized sole that protects the feet, and a padded tongue and collar so that you don’t have to deal with any discomfort while walking.
Best Value:
The Asics Men’s GEL-Tech Walker New 4 Walking Shoes offers both style and function, making it one of the go-to choices for frequent walkers. These shoes have been specially designed to provide your feet with the protection it needs while walking on all types of terrain. Apart from its breathable fabric, the shoes also provide superior shock absorption keeping your feet safe while walking along with better traction so that you can walk faster for a long time.