For most people, walking is a vital form of exercise thanks to its numerous physical and mental health benefits. From enjoying a stroll through the park to walking the dog or grocery shopping, walking is an essential part of daily life for many older adults. However, wearing improper footwear can often turn these activities into a painful experience. Ill-fitting shoes can cause discomfort, blisters and even foot conditions, like bunions, corns, calluses and hammertoes. Moreover, inadequate support and traction can increase the risk of falls, which can have serious consequences for seniors.
Wearing the best walking shoes for seniors is a good place to start on the journey to addressing these issues and promoting overall foot health. Read on to discover the perfect walking shoes for you or your loved one’s unique needs with this expert guide from StoryPoint Group.
What We Looked For
As we age, it’s normal for our feet to undergo some natural changes that can impact our footwear needs. One common change is the flattening and widening of the feet, which can significantly change our footwear needs.
Additionally, conditions, such as arthritis or diabetes, can sometimes cause swelling, discomfort and reduced sensitivity in the feet, further emphasizing the need for shoes that provide adequate comfort, support and protection. When searching for the best walking shoes for seniors, we took several crucial factors into consideration, including:
- Overall fit: Poorly-fitting shoes can cause discomfort, exacerbate foot problems and even lead to injury. We prioritized shoes that provide secure heel support, enough width to accommodate any swelling or deformities and ample toe room to avoid pressure on the toes, which can lead to discomfort or foot problems.
- Padding: Adequate padding is another essential feature we considered when choosing walking shoes for seniors. Well-padded footwear can absorb shock and reduce pressure on the feet, providing comfort and support during walks. Podiatrists recommend shoes with cushioned insoles and ample padding around the heel and arch to help ensure maximum comfort and protection.
- Toe box spaciousness: Toe room is crucial for seniors, and cramped or tight-fitting footwear can lead to pain and discomfort, especially for those with foot conditions, like bunions or hammertoes. We looked for shoes with a spacious toe box that allows toes to wiggle freely without restriction.
- Heel support: Heel support is essential for stability and proper alignment, particularly for seniors who may experience balance issues. The best walking shoes for seniors typically feature a firm heel design to help provide stability and prevent your feet from slipping around inside the shoe.
- Non-slip sole: When choosing walking shoes for seniors, it’s essential to prioritize shoes with non-slip soles. They offer excellent traction on different surfaces and can help reduce the risk of slips and falls, especially in wet or slick conditions.
- Ease of wear: The best walking shoes for seniors should allow for easy wearing and provide a comfortable fit. Footwear with wide openings can be especially beneficial for seniors who have difficulty putting on or taking off shoes due to swelling or stiffness in the feet.
- Heel height: Lastly, we considered heel height. Wearing shoes with high heels can increase pressure on the forefoot and contribute to balance issues. It’s important to opt for walking shoes with a low heel to help ensure balance and reduce strain on feet and ankles.
Our Top Picks
Choosing the right pair of shoes can help ensure comfort, improve balance and promote foot health, as well as overall health. But with so many options to choose from, picking the best walking shoes for your needs can be less straightforward. From comfortable shoes for everyday walking to fantastic budget picks, our recommendations are filled with great options for everyone.
Best Overall (Mens): Vionic Walker Classic
Our overall best pick for the best walking shoes for seniors is Vionic’s Walker Classic. It’s a great option for seniors looking for a reliable, comfortable and stylish walking shoe. The Walker Classic’s standout feature is its podiatrist-designed footbed, which offers excellent arch support and helps keep your feet in their natural position. This can help reduce overpronation and relieve pain associated with foot conditions, like plantar fasciitis and flat feet.
In addition to its supportive footbed, the Walker Classic sneaker features a durable, water-repellent leather upper and a sturdy rubber outsole to help provide durability and adequate traction on various surfaces. Its lace-up closure also allows for a customizable fit, while the padded collar and tongue provide extra comfort around the ankle. Plus, the sleek and versatile design means these sneakers can effortlessly transition from walks in the park to casual outings with friends.
While the Vionic Walker Classic sneaker is our overall winner for best walking shoes for seniors, some users may find the shoe too heavy for their liking.
Store rating: 4.9/5
Best Overall (Womens): Skechers Women’s Go Walk Joy
The Skechers Women’s Go Walk Joy is a top contender for the best walking shoes for senior women. It comes with a lightweight and responsive midsole, which provides exceptional comfort and shock absorption. Seniors will also appreciate its supportive high-rebound insole, which offers excellent arch support and helps reduce foot fatigue during long walks.
In addition to its comfortable construction, the Skechers Go Walk Joy Sneaker features a breathable and flexible mesh upper, allowing for ample ventilation, especially on hot days. Its slip-on design and stretchy collar make it convenient to get on and off, making it ideal for seniors who may have difficulty with laces or straps. It’s also available in a variety of beautiful colors and patterns to fit your taste and style.
However, it’s important to note that some users may find that the sizing runs slightly large, so it’s recommended to try them on at the store or order a half size down for the best fit. Additionally, the lack of traditional laces may not provide a customizable fit for some individuals.
Store rating: 4.6/5
Best Budget (Mens): ASICS Gel-Excite 9
The ASICS Gel-Excite 9 offers an excellent choice for those seeking affordable options without compromising on comfort. In addition to being easy on your wallet, it features an excellent rearfoot cushioning system that provides great shock absorption. The shoe is also surprisingly well-padded for its price, allowing users to walk for longer distances without discomfort or fatigue.
The ASICS Gel-Excite 9 also has a breathable mesh upper to help keep your feet cool and dry during walks, and a handy lace-up closure that allows for a customizable fit. Plus, the shoe’s lightweight construction makes it easy to wear for extended periods without feeling weighed down, making it one of the best walking shoes for older men.
While the ASICS Gel-Excite 9 can be a fantastic pocket-friendly option, some users have raised concerns over its durability.
Store rating: 4.8/5
Best Budget (Womens): Tiosebon Slip-On Walking Shoe
The Tiosebon Slip-On is great for those looking for the best walking shoes for senior women without breaking the bank. It features an incredibly lightweight design and a soft, breathable mesh upper, allowing for optimal airflow and a snug and comfortable fit. Furthermore, its slip-on design eliminates the need for laces and makes putting on and taking off the shoes convenient, especially for seniors with mobility issues. The shoe also comes with a well-cushioned insole that provides excellent support and comfort for your feet.
While some people may enjoy the convenience of its slip-on design, the lack of shoe laces or straps may turn away individuals who prefer a more customizable fit.
Store rating: 4.4/5
Best Comfort: Brooks Adrenaline GTS 22
Comfort is crucial when it comes to walking shoes for seniors, as they need footwear that supports their feet throughout the day without causing discomfort or pain. The best walking shoes typically feature well-cushioned insoles and supportive midsoles to provide adequate shock absorption and reduce strain on joints. Additionally, a wide and roomy toe box is essential to accommodate any foot deformities or swelling that may occur with age.
The Brooks Adrenaline GTS 22 is an excellent choice for seniors seeking exceptional comfort and support in their walking shoes. Renowned for its stability, cushioning and durability, this shoe is a favorite among older adults looking to maintain an active lifestyle without sacrificing foot health. It’s made from a soft, breathable material and features a wide toe box that provides a snug fit. This shoe also features a well-padded midsole that offers plush comfort and responsive cushioning, which is ideal for individuals with unstable feet or foot conditions, such as bunions, corns, calluses and hammertoes.
However, the Adrenaline GTS 22 isn’t perfect. The shoe may take a bit of breaking in to get used to, and some users may find the laces too short.
Store rating: 4.4/5
Best for Balance: New Balance 990v5
Finding the right senior shoes is crucial for comfort, stability and balance, especially for those who like to engage in strength training. It’s essential to look for shoes that offer adequate support and cushioning to minimize the risk of falls and provide relief for achy joints. Additionally, seniors should opt for lightweight shoes to help reduce fatigue.
The New Balance 990v5 is designed to provide a secure and steady foundation for walking. Its midsole combines soft cushioning with a supportive polyurethane rim for stability, helping to reduce the risk of ankle rolling and providing a secure base for seniors with balance problems. The shoe is also well-cushioned in the forefoot and heel to help absorb shock and provide added comfort.
Additionally, the New Balance 990v5 comes with a durable mesh upper that provides breathability and support. It also features a lace-up closure that allows for a customized fit, ensuring that the shoe stays securely in place.
While it offers a great combination of comfort, balance and a bit of style, some people may find the price too high for their budget.
Store rating: 4.7/5
Best for Stability: Skechers Arch Fit 2.0
Stability is crucial for seniors, especially when it comes to footwear. Designed with advanced arch support technology and a secure fit, this shoe provides an excellent option for those who prioritize balance and support. The Skechers Arch Fit 2.0 features a podiatrist-certified arch support that helps to stabilize the foot and promote proper alignment. The insole also provides cushioning and shock absorption, reducing the risk of discomfort and fatigue during walks.
Additionally, the Skechers Arch Fit 2.0 has a durable and breathable mesh upper that provides ventilation and support. The shoe stays securely in place even during dynamic movements. Furthermore, the shoe’s sleek and modern design means you can look stylish while prioritizing your foot health.
Some users may find that the shoe runs slightly narrow, so it’s recommended to try them on or order a wide width if you have wider feet. Additionally, the price point may be higher compared to similar walking shoes on the market.
Store rating: 4.4/5
Best Slip-On Shoe: Skechers Slip-Ins Ultra Flex
As we get older, some everyday tasks, like bending down to tie shoelaces, can start to feel burdensome. Slip-on shoes offer a convenient solution for seniors by eliminating laces or straps. With slip-ons, there are no laces to come undone or trip over. This can help reduce the risk of tripping or falling that can come with traditional lace-up shoes. Plus, the easy on-and-off design makes them ideal for individuals with limited mobility or conditions like arthritis, who may find bending down to tie shoelaces difficult.
The Skechers Slip-Ins Ultra Flex is designed with seniors in mind, and offers a perfect blend of style, comfort and ease of use. Its slip-on design means you can slip them on and off without bending. Plus, they have a stretchy knit fabric upper that hugs your feet for a snug fit. The Skechers Slip-Ins Ultra Flex are not just about convenience — these shoes are also super comfortable. They feature a cushioned, lightweight midsole that provides all-day comfort and support, making these one of the best walking shoes for seniors.
However, it’s important to note that slip-on shoes may not provide the same level of stability and support as lace-up shoes, especially for activities that require quick movements or rigorous physical activity. Additionally, due to its slip-on design, this shoe’s fit may not be as customizable as lace-up shoes.
Store rating: 4.8/5
Best For Heel Pain: ABEO MXV Shift Metatarsal
For seniors experiencing heel pain, choosing the best walking shoes can help improve comfort and mobility. Shoes with adequate arch support and cushioning in the heel area can help alleviate pressure and reduce pain. Consider options like orthopedic shoes or those with specialized features, such as gel inserts or memory foam, that provide additional cushioning for your feet during walks. It’s also important to prioritize shoes with a supportive and stable heel to help minimize strain on the heel.
The ABEO MXV Shift Metatarsal features an innovative metatarsal support system that helps cushion the foot, relieving pressure and reducing discomfort for seniors who suffer from conditions like metatarsalgia or Morton’s neuroma. The built-in orthotic footbed further enhances support and stability, promoting proper foot alignment and reducing the risk of injury.
In addition to its specialized support features, the ABEO MXV Shift Metatarsal shoe boasts a lightweight and breathable mesh upper. This allows for optimal airflow to keep feet cool and dry during walks, while the padded collar and tongue provide added comfort around the ankle. The lace-up closure ensures a secure and customizable fit, perfect for seniors who require additional support, or people with foot conditions.
The only potential drawback is its limited number of color options, which may turn away some individuals.
Store rating: 4.9/5
Best For Arch Support: Orthofeet’s Lava Stretch-Knit Athletic
When it comes to the best shoes for seniors, adequate arch support can help combat foot pain, provide stability and promote proper foot alignment. Shoes with adequate arch support help distribute weight evenly across the foot, reducing strain on the arches. Additionally, proper arch support can help improve posture and reduce the risk of developing related issues, like knee, hip or back pain.
Orthofeet’s Lava Stretch-Knit Athletic Shoes are ideal for individuals in need of the best walking shoes for seniors with some extra arch support. These shoes offer pillow-like comfort and support to keep you moving with ease. One of the standout features of Orthofeet’s Lava Stretch-Knit Athletic shoes is their seamless stretch-knit upper. This unique design provides a snug yet flexible fit for maximum comfort. The stretch-knit material is also soft and breathable, allowing for optimal airflow.
The shoes are also equipped with Orthofeet’s removable orthotic insole, which provides superior arch support and can help relieve pain associated with conditions like plantar fasciitis and flat feet. Plus, they’re affordable and stylish, making them a great choice for anyone looking for a comfortable pair of shoes.
Store rating: 4.4/5
Notable Mentions
While our list of top picks for the best walking shoes for seniors includes some exceptional options, there are a few notable mentions that didn’t make the cut but are still excellent choices worth considering, including:
Skechers Go Walk 5
This shoe offers a great option for seniors seeking comfort and ease of wear. It features a lightweight construction, making it ideal for individuals who value simplicity and comfort. The Skechers Go Walk 5 is also very well-cushioned, providing excellent shock absorption and a comfortable fit. Its soft rubber sole also adds to the comfort, allowing seniors to walk for longer distances without discomfort or fatigue.
The shoe’s slip-on design and stretchy collar eliminate the need for laces or straps, making it convenient to put on and take off. Plus, the Skechers Go Walk 5’s sleek and modern design means you can look stylish while prioritizing your foot health.
While Skechers is known for its quality construction, slip-on shoes in general may be more prone to wear and tear over time, particularly at the elasticized openings. This could result in reduced longevity compared to lace-up shoes.
Store rating: 4.6/5
Propét LifeWalker Strap
The Propét LifeWalker Strap is a great choice for those seeking the best walking shoes for seniors that combine comfort, style and convenience. The shoe features a full-grain leather upper, a roomy toe box and a sturdy rubber outsole to help ensure comfort, protection and durability. It also features a unique adjustable hook-and-loop strap design, providing a secure and customizable fit without the hassle of laces or buckles. This can be especially useful for individuals with mobility issues or foot conditions. It also comes with a removable cushioned footbed, providing added comfort and customization options for seniors with specific foot needs.
A potential drawback of this footwear is that some people may find the straps too short. It also comes in limited colors, which may not suit some people’s tastes and preferences.
Store rating: 4.3/5
Fun Living With StoryPoint Group
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