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Reviewers who aren't runners have found a similar fit. "I am not a runner. I just need shoes [with] support because I walk a lot," one shopper writes. "These are cute and supportive top to bottom, front to back, inside and out."
I found these sneakers by way of Hoka's collaboration with Outdoor Voices, then bought two more pairs from the brand's core assortment. The Clifton has the lift of a platform shoe, but the soles feel lighter than air. (It's not my imagination: After a recent update, the soles are 15% lighter than previous versions.) While they're engineered for running, the cushioning and flexible knit upper are also more than suited to long, long walks. 88% of reviewers on Hoka's site would recommend the Clifton to a friend; some even go so far as to say there isn't a break-in period.
Let satisfied reviewers explain for themselves. "I have to say these shoes have been great from the get go. I can wear them for extended periods of time and they’re still comfortable," one recent buyer says. Another says, "I'm on my feet all all day, great support and comfort throughout. Very pleased with my purchase because I was skeptical." One word of note: Some reviewers suggest going a size up, as these have a slightly narrow fit.
"For a shoe that can quickly transition from road to trail for a leisurely walk, hike, or trail run, I recommend the Nike Pegasus Trail," Woods says. "It has the same soft React foam as the Infinity coupled with more traction so you can easily transition from concrete to countryside and stay stable and comfortable on both. Walking on soft trail terrain is going to help with less impact on the joints, which means you can walk for longer (or run)."
Reviewers on other sites add that Veja sneakers only get more comfortable with each wear. Consider going a size up if you have wide feet. Some reviewers say they run narrow.
Some exercise regimens include walking, running, and HIIT in between. The Adidas Ultraboost can handle them all, in nine color combinations. As the flex upper knit stretches and conforms to your foot, the boost sole cushions you through your workout. Reviewers who wear them in casual settings say they're great for hours of standing, giving them an average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars.
This walking shoe, available in 17 different color combinations, is another great Amazon find. Reviewers say the entire sole cushion is comfortable, with the added bonus of extra padding along the tongue. Here's a review that sums up the cloud-like feel of these sneakers best: "Have tried so many brand name (and even high end name) and these are the only shoes that have given me great comfort."
Here's a walking shoe for those who prefer streamlined, minimalistic shoes to chunkier athletic styles. Koio's leather sneakers are beloved for their clean, responsibly sourced leather and subtly cushioned insoles for all-day wear. Across more than 1,300 online reviews, shoppers are impressed by this sneaker's versatility and comfort above all. "This pair from Koio is 100% worth the price—they're impeccably made, and the leather is beautiful," one reviewer writes. Another says, "Only had these two weeks and they are by far the most comfortable shoe I've purchased in years. Received tons of compliments."
This content was originally published here.