The 6 Best Shoes for Walking 20,000 (or More) Steps a Day

Every product was carefully curated by an Esquire editor. We may earn a commission from these links. Here’s how we test products and why you should trust us.new balance / saucony / brooksOnce upon a time, the Clifton 10 was our favorite Hoka shoe, but this updated version is even better. It boasts an upgraded premium mesh upper and a new plush sockliner for extra comfort. And though it may look like one, the Clifton 11 isn’t a hardcore performance sneaker. Instead, it’s made for walking and everyday runs with cushioning that’s plush but not too cushy and responsive but not too bouncy.Esquire entertainment editor and marathon runner Brady Langmann says of the Cliftons, “They’re squishy to protect your joints. They’re bouncy to give you some energy return on a run. But they don’t lean too far in either direction, making them wonderful everyday shoes.”Colors13Sizes7-16WidthsRegular, wide, x-wideMaterialsMesh, EVA, rubberSaucony’s ProGrid Omni 9 has been an icon since it was introduced as a technical running shoe in 2010—but the 2025 retro lifestyle version is what really popped off. I’d guess part of the reason is its range of fun colorways and cool, retro design, but the shoe’s secret strength is its Grid technology, which adds high-quality cushioning and stability with an even distribution of shock and impact. Like the Hoka Cliftons, these strike the perfect balance between cushy and bouncy.Colors22Sizes3.5-14WidthsStandardMaterialsMesh, suede, leather, TPU, ProGrid and EVA foam, rubberAdvertisement - Continue Reading BelowThese shoes were made for running, and we love them for that. In fact, we love New Balance’s whole Fresh Foam line. But the X 880v15 model is also great for walking thanks to the tapered foam cushioning. It has a standard stack height, so it’s not as thick as a heavily cushioned rocker shoe but it has more support than a flat tennis sneaker. And its breathable upper is still structured enough for a secure fit across the top of the foot.Colors16Sizes7-16WidthsNarrow, standard, wide, x-wideMaterialsSynthetic, foam, rubberIf you live somewhere wet and rainy, you’ll need a walking shoe that can withstand slippery situations. Luckily, On makes a pretty hardy one. The techy-looking Cloudaway 2 has a water-repellent upper and mudguard and an extra-sticky rubber outsole that’ll help keep you moving in the rain. It’s protective while still being breathable thanks to a new microfiber tongue.ColorsWhite/black, beigeSizes7-14WidthsStandardMaterialsRecycled polyester, synthetic with DWR treatment, microfiber, foam, Missiongrip rubberAdvertisement - Continue Reading BelowThe Brooks Ghost Max 4 has a broad base and roomy fit meant to accommodate orthotics and varied foot shapes, so it’s a good choice if you need a shoe that can comfortably fit inserts. It also has a balanced combination of soft cushioning and a rocker shape for maximum support, which is helpful for providing smooth heel-to-toe transitions with each step.Colors8Sizes7-15WidthsMedium, wide, x-wideMaterialsMesh, DNA LOFT v3 foam, rubberIf you can’t stand a closed-toe shoe, there are actually some high-tech sandals that will keep your feet comfortable when walking all day. These ones from Teva are designed for day hikes, so they stay sturdy and protective during outdoor adventures, all while letting your feet breathe. They have adjustable strapping to provide that perfect fit, an Achilles pad for extra heel support, and a Vibram rubber outsole for gripping whatever ground you’re walking on. Note that the straps might not be long enough to accommodate extra-wide feet, so if you’re in that boat, it’s best to find sandals that come in different widths.ColorsBlack, gray, oliveSizes7-14WidthsStandardMaterialsMesh, recycled polyester, LITE-COMF foam/rubber cushioning, Vibram MegaGrip rubber