The 6 Best Brooks Shoes for Walking, Tested By Style and Fitness Editors

ProsSuper stable for long walksMesh upper provides direct airflow to the footLower heel-to-toe drop puts less stress on knees and hipsGreat for running, tooConsOne of the heavier options on the listAfter testing dozens of shoes, the Brooks Adrenaline GTS 25 takes the crown as my go-to for walking (and tbh, everything else). The latest Adrenaline GTS iteration still nails the balance between cushion and support, keeping my stride steady without feeling stiff or squished—which is exactly what I loved about the 24.What really seals the deal? The firm-yet-cozy midsole hugs the foot just right, offering a secure, locked-in feel that still stays comfortable mile after mile. The 25 has a bit more cushioning than the previous version without sacrificing stability (something I was nervous about). Add in the breathable mesh upper that keeps things cool without sacrificing structure, and you’ve got a sneaker that truly goes the distance. I also love that Brooks reduced the heel-to-toe drop from 12 mm to 10 mm, which helps reduce the potential for strain in the hips and knees. In the past two months, I’ve racked up 40+ walking miles and 15 running miles, pain-free with these.A few other WH editors have also taken the Adrenaline GTS 25 for a spin and came back equally impressed. In our 2026 Fitness Awards, the Adrenaline GTS 25 took the top spot for walking shoes for its near-perfect balance between cushioning and stability. “It offers just the right amount of cushioning for a bouncy step without compromising on support for my flat, wide feet," says beauty editor Nicole Saunders.I’ve had the same experience, and credit that to the shoe’s GuideRails tech, which uses firm foam on either side of the heel to keep feet locked in. The foam is infused with nitrogen, making it super comfortable and lightweight without being overly plush. Bonus: The breathable mesh upper keeps things comfy without too much stretch (key for stability while walking), Schaeffer says.One heads-up: the Adrenaline GTS 25 is a bit heavier than the 24 at 9.5 oz., so if you like a super lightweight shoe, you may want to consider the Glycerin Flex. However, I barely notice a difference in weight and chalk it up to the increased foam in the midsole.Read More: Brooks Adrenaline GTS 25 ReviewSizes5—13Weight9.5 ozHeel-To-Toe Drop10 mmCushioningMediumSupportMediumProsSuper comfortable with ample cushioningAiry, breathable upperGreat for long walks and standing all dayConsTongue edges may curl with timeIf versatility is your priority, the Brooks Ghost 18 delivers. With its nitrogen-fused cushioning, the latest version of the shoe packs in the same amount of plush padding that we loved in the Ghost 17 (it was a 2025 WH Sneaker Award winner for a reason!). Impressively, the moderately high stack height at the heel doesn’t feel too squishy or wobbly. It’s a great do-it-all shoe for long walks, standing all day, and running.Upgrades from the previous version include a new sockliner that makes for a comfy, snug fit and a flat tongue (the old one was a more classic padded option). “It does a good job of hugging the shape of your ankle without rubbing or chafing,” says fitness writer and WH contributor Korin Miller. “I like the smooth, seamless feel it creates, but I noticed that the edges start to curl in with repeated use.” I’ve noticed the same, but it’s definitely not an issue once your foot is in the shoe—just something to double-check when you slide your foot in.I’ve worn these for long walks with my pup, all-day errands, a Costco shopping spree (IYKYK), and a full day on my feet at a music festival—and my arches stayed happy through it all. The soft midsole offers that just-right level of give that absorbs impact without feeling too soft or marshmallowy. The knit mesh upper is even more breathable than in the last version, adding to the barely-there feel, as does the plush ankle collar, which doesn’t chafe or rub at all.One of my only gripes about the Ghost 17 was the slightly narrow toe box, but thankfully, the Ghost 18 solved this issue for me. It’s much more spacious now, both in terms of width and height.Read More: Brooks Ghost 18 ReviewSizes5—13Weight9.2 ozHeel-To-Toe Drop10 mmCushioningMedium SupportNeutralAdvertisement - Continue Reading BelowProsSuper plush and cushionedOffers ample traction and stability on slick or uneven surfacesGreat for long walks and runsConsOffers less stability than other shoes on this listIf you’re after a walking shoe that’s super cushy, the Brooks Glycerin 23 is it. I’ve tested these on nearly 10-mile walks through nature preserves and standing for hours at the DMV (ugh). I never once felt like my feet were sore or that I needed to rush to sit down—these things felt like walking on pillows.But the cushioning isn’t the only win here. The Glycerin 23’s knit upper gives this shoe a sock-like feel that hugs your foot without squeezing. It’s smooth, stretchy, and breathable, making it one of the most comfortable shoes I’ve worn on long walks. The shoe has a mild heel drop that helps distribute pressure evenly across the foot and reduces foot fatigue, which I sometimes experience with other walking shoes. While I wouldn’t quite describe the shoe as sleek or minimalist, it balances its plush cushioning with a more understated silhouette (aka it doesn’t veer into chunky dad shoe territory).I also appreciate how well this shoe performs on uneven surfaces thanks to its wide platform and ample traction. The durable outsole covers plenty of ground, and the traction has a complex, winding tread pattern. I never feel like I’m going to slip, even on slick pavement.So far, the Glycerin 23 does a great job of keeping my feet locked in despite its super thick cushioning—but it’s not designed for max stability. Those with specific foot problems, like plantar fasciitis or issues with overpronation, may want to pick a slightly less cushioned, more supportive shoe, like the Adrenaline GTS 25.Read More: The Best Shoes For Standing All DaySizes5—12Weight9.5 ozHeel-To-Toe Drop8 mmCushioningHighSupportNeutralProsPropels foot forward without tons of energy exertionSupportive base that cradles the footGood for high archesConsUpper material wears out pretty quicklyThe Brooks Ghost Max 3 took home the top spot in our guide to the most comfortable sneakers for its perfect balance of maximum support and cushioning. It keeps my feet comfortably locked in, even after hours of wear, and my ankles never feel wobbly, which often happens with plush shoes like this one.“Out of all the sneakers I’ve tried, I find myself wearing the Brooks Ghost Max 3—it’s the newest addition to the Ghost Max series—the most when I want to feel comfortable during walks or runs (yep, it can do both!),” says style contributor Lily Wohlner. I agree. That’s because the rocker bottom sole, which has a slight curve to it like a rocking chair, helps propel my foot forward with less energy. Wearing it almost feels like walking on a moving runway at the airport.Even for a max cushioned shoe, it’s super stable thanks to its signature Guardrails tech (the same found in the Adrenaline GTS 25). The outsole also has a broad base, which reduces rolling of the foot inward and outward and cradles the foot in place without interfering with your stride. Fitness contributor Talene Appleton says these features are great for high arches. After hours of walking, she doesn’t feel one ounce of pain or discomfort. And if you have wide feet or bunions, you’re in luck—this shoe comes in both wide and extra-wide options.During testing, we did notice some wear and tear on the upper pretty early on (after a few months). While it was a bit of a bummer, the elite combo of cushion and support keeps this kick high on my list of Brooks sneakers.Read more: Best Walking Shoes for WomenSizeS5—13Weight10.0 ozHeel-To-Toe Drop6 mmCushioningHighSupportHighAdvertisement - Continue Reading BelowProsFlexible, lightweight feelPlush cushioningGreat for walking, running, and working outConsOffers less stability than other shoes on this listThink of the Glyceric Flex as Glycerin 23’s lighter, more flexible counterpart. The upper and outsole are both made from super bendy materials that give the shoe an almost barefoot feel.I’m a big fan of this shoe for walking, long periods of standing, running, and plyometric workouts. It's incredibly versatile, thanks to ample nitrogen-infused cushioning and a flexible midsole. The FlexZone technology—a strategically placed groove in the center of the shoe’s outsole—helps enhance the shoe’s flexibility and allows the foot to move naturally. Combined with the pods under the front of the foot (which reminds me of On’s signature CloudTec system you see on most of the brand’s outsoles), the shoe has a super bouncy feel without feeling wobbly.Bonus: at only 8.0 ounces, it's the lightest shoe on this list, so your feet won’t feel bogged down. But it still falls in Schaeffer’s recommended weight range (eight to 10 ounces), so it's hefty enough to keep your foot locked in. Plus, the flat knit upper is super soft, breathable, and—yes—flexible, which adds to its airy feel.But the shoe’s lighter weight means it offers less heft and a less supportive feel. If you need more structure or have specific stability needs, these might not be your best bet. But, if you’re into a flexible, responsive shoe that doesn’t weigh you down—this one’s tough to beat.Read More: Best Recovery ShoesSizes5—12Weight8.0 ozHeel-To-Toe Drop6 mmCushioningHighSupportFlexible/neutralProsStylish, easy-to-clean leather upper GlideRoll rocker helps propel your stride forward Plush cushioning takes pressure off feetThe Brooks Ghost Max L offers a super plush, easygoing stride. The high-stacked cushioning is next-level—soft but stable, like walking on a marshmallow. It has an outsole with a curved bottom, like a rocking chair, to help propel you forward so each step takes a bit less energy.I didn’t expect to notice the rocker bottom that much, but I totally get the hype. Schaeffer says he actually prefers rocker-bottom shoes for walking, especially as we get older, because they help take pressure off joints. That said, the same rocker technology makes me feel a little off-balance when I try to run or power walk in them, so I keep these strictly for leisurely walks and casual wear.Looks-wise, I’m team Ghost Max L all the way. Some might say the stacked foam gives grandma shoes, but I think it strikes that perfect balance of chunky and cool—especially when styled right. I like to wear mine with a wide-leg pant and a blazer on top. It’s got just the right amount of bulk to feel trendy without being clunky, and pairs well with everything from athleisure to workwear.However, this shoe runs small. Definitely size up if you’re in between sizes or like a little wiggle room. I could have used a half size larger than what I wear in the rest of my Brooks shoes for a little more comfort, but I still get a lot of casual wear out of them regardless.Features at a GlanceSizeS5—12Weight10.5 ozHeel-To-Toe Drop6 mmCushioningHighSupportNeutralShannen Zitz is the Associate Style & Reviews Editor at Women's Health, where she covers all-things sneakers and activewear. Previously, she was an assistant editor at Prevention. Shannen graduated from the State University of New York at Cortland with a bachelor's degree in English. If she’s not reading or writing, you can probably find her frequenting the skincare and makeup forums on Reddit or hogging the squat rack at the gym.Bradley Schaeffer, DPM, is a board-certified podiatrist and foot surgeon specializing in sports medicine, foot and ankle reconstructive surgery, regenerative medicine, and aesthetic procedures.Christian is the Style and Reviews Director at Men's Health and Women’s Health, where he oversees shopping and style content for both brands. He started his magazine career as an accessories assistant at Vogue, and has since held editorial roles at Tatler Asia and The Manual. When he’s not online shopping, you can find him on long walks with his two corgis.