If you purchase an independently reviewed product or service through a link on our website, WWD may receive an affiliate commission.
Top Long-Distance Walking Shoes to Buy Online
Walking might be the most widespread form of exercise, but, like with any fitness activity, your gear matters. Even though you can (and do) walk in all shoes, tackling long-distance jaunts for the purpose of breaking a sweat requires proper footwear.
Luckily, there are plenty of impressive, purpose-built walking shoes on the market. Something that might surprise you? The best long-distance walking shoes are different than the running shoes many people lace up before a long stroll.
Running shoes are built for impact absorption at a higher speed and cadence, often being equipped with more responsive (bouncy) midsole foam and a higher heel stack that could actually cause discomfort and instability during long walks. Long-distance walking shoes, by contrast, prioritize cushioning under the heel and flexibility at the forefoot, since walking involves a heel-to-toe roll rather than a midfoot or forefoot strike. They also tend to have a lower heel drop, a more rigid sole for sustained support over hours, and less aggressive tread than running shoe counterparts.
We combed through hundreds of offerings in this latter category to find five of the best long-distance walking shoes available online right now. These kicks from brands like On, Nike, and Hoka let you log the miles and look head-turningly good while doing it (especially important when you’re cruising through airports all day).
Here’s to your next 20,000 steps.
Best Overall
On Cloud 6 Shoe
On’s Cloud sneakers are an industry game changer — becoming ubiquitous on most walking paths and in airport lounges all across the globe shortly after their initial launch. The Cloud has dominated for two reasons: function and fashion.
On the performance side, it’s engineered for a slower pace and long stretches of standing, what with On’s proprietary, namesake CloudTec midsole. This element not only delivers plush cushioning but also retains energy for a certain kind of springiness that kicks fatigue to the curb. Looks-wise, the Cloud showcases a modern, minimal look that’s years ahead of most other walking sneakers and running shoes’ primary colors and bulky builds.
What reviewers say: “I walk six miles, three to five days a week. These are my favorite shoes. Arch support and comfort are perfect, and sizing is about right as well. I normally wear a size 8 shoe but size up to 8.5 in Ons. I also like the ease of a slip-on shoe with elastic lace. On includes regular laces as well in the box.”
Price upon publish date of this article: $160
Runner-Up
Nike Motiva Shoe
Our runner(erm, walker)-up long-distance walking shoe is the Nike Motiva. It’s the Swoosh brand’s first shoe built specifically for walking, and the sportswear giant knocked it out of the park (but we expected nothing less). The lightweight style boasts Comfortgroove cushioning, which offers a squishy supportiveness that absorbs any bumps underfoot. We like that Nike made the inside of the shoe a little more roomy, allowing your feet to comfortably swell during long walks.
Plus, similar to the On Cloud 6, the Motiva has a contemporary appearance that we wouldn’t mind taking into a coffee shop mid-walk. Its reasonable price tag of $115 is the cherry on top of all this goodness.
What reviewers say: “These are the best sneakers I’ve purchased in a long time! They give great support and stability if you suffer from plantar fasciitis.”
Price upon publish date of this article: $115
Best leather
Hoka Bondi SR Shoe
Hoka stands out from the crowd as one of the best long-distance walking shoe brands, thanks primarily to its signature beefy outsole. Leading Hoka models also have a pronounced rocker, which provides that heel-to-toe rolling sensation you want in a long-distance walking shoe.
This Bondi SR is our top recommendation for anyone who’s standing on their feet all day at work or cruising for long miles at a leisurely pace. It takes Hoka’s most cushioned shoe (the Bondi) and levels it up with a slip-resistant outsole, not to mention a more civilian leather upper. This makes the SR read more “normal” and guarantees grip on slick surfaces, while still delivering the cloud-inspired feel that first put Hoka on the map.
What reviewers say: “On my feet long hours every day as a server. The best shoe I have ever worn.”
Price upon publish date of this article: $180
Best road-to-trail
Hoka Transport 2 Shoe
If your walks involve both roads and trails, check out Hoka’s Transport 2. The Vibram outsole here grants added texture for traction on dirt and rocks, but not to the point of hampering your walking experience on concrete. The upper is also pampered with a water-repellent treatment to handle rain and puddles alike. Of course, just like the shoe before it, this bestseller can additionally be praised for giving you access to the brand’s marquee cushioning — ensuring your feet stay fresh mile after hard-won mile.
What reviewers say: “I love the Transport 2. I walk and hike a minimum of four miles a day. I have tried the Clifton and noticed redness and blisters from pressure points. Switched to Transport 2 and all of those issues disappeared. This shoe is durable and provides more stability than other walking shoes.”
Price upon publish date of this article: $155
Best for hiking
Salomon X Ultra 5 Gore-Tex Shoe
Planning to log miles on the trail this summer? We urge you not to sleep on the Salomon X Ultra 5 Gore-Tex. Salomons have become a veritable staple in urban neighborhoods, so you’ll be earning top marks for trendiness with this purchase, but let’s not forget that the shoe’s natural habitat is still in the wild.
Equal parts stable and agile, the X Ultra 5 can handle slippery, loose dirt; steep climbs; rocky descents; and flat, long stretches. Interestingly enough, the sneaker does its best work when faced with inclement weather, courtesy of a Gore-Tex upper that will put an end to your excuses for not going out there and seizing the day.
What reviewers say: “Had a chance to walk approximately 88 miles in these shoes on hardscape surfaces, beach sand, as well as forest trails. They’ve proven to be waterproof, as long as the water stays below the openings. The shoes also fit well, running true to size in both length and width.”
Price upon publish date of this article: $175
Sign up for WWD Shop‘s newsletter to get the scoop on the best in beauty and style with in-depth reviews of exciting new releases and buyer’s guides to find the products you need to try ASAP.
Why Trust Footwear News
For more than 75 years, Footwear News has been the shoe authority. Our coverage spans top industry news, retail trends, head-to-toe fashion, athletic and outdoor analysis, and more. Footwear News’ global network of editors has carefully curated all product selections featured using our expansive brand knowledge and thorough research to find quality, long-lasting items.
Why Trust WWD
Since 1910, WWD — often referred to as “the fashion bible” — has been the leading industry voice of authority for senior executives in the global women’s and men’s fashion, retail, and beauty communities, while also informing the consumer media that cover the market. Today, WWD’s breaking news and trend coverage continues to be a trustworthy resource for both fashion insiders and consumers alike. Our shopping editors continue to uphold WWD’s editorial standards and values with quality, expert-backed product selections. Learn more about us here.
Meet the Author
Oscar Hartzog is a Managing Commerce Editor at Penske Media Corporation, overseeing lifestyle and commerce content across WWD, Rolling Stone, The Hollywood Reporter, and Billboard. After a decade in the space, Hartzog has reviewed thousands of products spanning categories like fashion, fitness, spirits, and travel. He is passionate about helping people spend their hard-earned dollars on purchases that live up to their hype, whether it’s a T-shirt, a bottle of whiskey, or a gift for a loved one. Hartzog graduated from The American University of Paris with a bachelor’s degree in comparative literature and philosophy.
