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Whether you’re going for long evening walks to clear your mind or 15-minute resets during your work day, walking has a ton of benefits. In fact, regular strolls can reduce the risk of strokes, improve mental health, and prevent cardiovascular diseases. To make it even more compelling, all you need to get started is a pair of walking shoes—and Nike has no shortage of comfortable, supportive shoes for daily walks. We spoke with two podiatrists to learn what to look for in quality shoes, then rounded up some of the best Nike walking shoes for strutting and jogging, including running shoes and a few more casual options, too. Read on to find your new favorite pair of shoes to hit the road in comfortable, supportive style.
Experts in This Article
Derek Roach is a foot health specialist and owner of retailer Flow Feet Orthopedic Shoes.
Kathryn Miller is a podiatrist and the director of In Stride Clinic in Victoria, Australia.
The best Nike walking shoes, at a glance
- Best overall: Nike Motiva, $110
- Most versatile: Nike Pegasus 41, $140
- Most comfortable everyday shoe: Nike Air Max 90, $130
- Most comfortable lifestyle shoe: Nike Air Force 1 ’07, $115
- Best for flat feet: Nike Structure 25, $140
- Best lightweight Nike walking shoe: Nike Invincible 3, $180
- Best cushioned Nike walking shoes: Nike V2K Run, $120
- Most affordable Nike walking shoe: Nike Waffle Debut, $75
Shop 8 of the best walking shoes from Nike
The Nike Motiva is the brand’s only designated walking shoe, and it is the result of hundreds of hours of interviews and focus groups in the Nike Research Lab to hone in on what people want when they are walking and jogging—or fluctuating between these two paces. Because people are more likely to strike the ground heel-first at a walking pace, the Motiva features a dramatic rocker shape that provides a smooth transition as you move through your stride. But cushioning is also important while walking, and this shoe has it in droves, not only at the heel but along the entire length of the foot. The outsole also has a fun, wavy design that not only looks cool but also compresses to give you a soft landing pad with each step.
Sizes available: 5-12 (in half sizes) | Colors: 15
Pros:
- Shape accommodates the common heel strike of walking
- Bouncy cushioning
- Wide toe box so your feet don’t feel restricted
Cons:
- Rocker design may take some getting used to
Sizes: 5-12 (half and extra-wide sizes) | Colors: 10 (plus design-your-own)
If you want a shoe that you can wear for all of your walks and runs, the Pegasus 40 is one of the most versatile shoes that Nike offers. It’s simple and streamlined, without the extra bells and whistles of expensive road running shoes, but with enough of the essentials that you’ll reach for it again and again when you step out the door. What sets it apart is it is truly designed for every foot: It has a neutral design that gives support but is not too stiff and moderate cushioning that creates a cushy ride but doesn’t detract from its stability. The mesh upper wraps around your foot for a secure fit, and it comes in both regular and extra wide so you can choose the right one for your foot shape.
Pros:
- Comes in both regular and wide sizes
- Breathable mesh upper
- Midsole cushioning is comfortable yet stable
Cons:
- May run small
Sizes: 5-12 (half sizes available) | Colors: 9 (plus design-your-own)
When I’m out all day logging 20k steps around the city, my go-to Nike’s are the Air Max 90s because of their comfy cushioning, arch support, and bold color options. Because they were originally designed for running, they have a lot of cushioning in the heel that tapers off towards the toe. That creates a high heel-to-toe drop which is great for anyone with calf or Achilles tendon tightness (like me) because your heel doesn’t have to travel as far when it hits the ground. The outsole is grippy, even after a fresh rain, and the ankle collar is padded and doesn’t create hotspots.
Pros:
- Max Air unit in the heel is good for all day comfort
- Plastic overlays add a bit of flair and 90’s style
- Rugged outsole provides traction
Cons:
- Not as breathable
- Relatively stiff
Sizes: 5-12 (unisex, half sizes available) | Colors: 2 (plus design-your-own)
One of the most iconic Nike designs, Air Force 1s may not be your initial go-to as a walking shoe. But if you’re looking for a comfy sneaker that you can pair with nearly any outfit (and doesn’t look like you’re about to go for a run), these have a lot to offer. While the thick, cushioned midsole is a bit stiffer than other shoes on this list, it is super durable and the foam won’t pack down as you rack up the miles—while lighter weight shoes may lose some of their bounce more quickly. The upper is made of leather, so it takes some time to break in, but again, this just enhances the durability. And unlike many Nike shoes, they feature a wide toe box with plenty of breathing room; in fact, you might want to size down if you prefer a more snug fit. Sure, these shoes may be more about style than comfort, but there’s a reason they’ve stayed true to their ‘80s design and you see them on people of all ages every time you step outside.
Pros:
- Nike Air cushioning is durable and doesn’t pack down quickly
- Customizable color options
- Classic design that stands the test of time
Cons:
- Leather makes the break-in period longer than other shoes
- Heavier and less breathable than other shoes on this list
Sizes: 5-12 (half sizes and extra-wide sizes available) | Colors: 11
If you have flat feet, you’ll want a stable shoe that has rigid panels along the edges to keep your foot from rolling as you step. The Structure 25 lives up to its name: It has midfoot support and a robust arch system that cradles the foot, preventing overpronation that is commonly associated with flat feet. Despite its focus on support, this shoe doesn’t compromise on comfort, either. It has a high foam stack seen in more neutral shoes to minimize impact, and a springy responsiveness so each step will feel just a bit easier.
Pros:
- Midfoot support prevents overpronation
- Heel collar is nicely padded
- Fits true to size
Cons:
- Midsole is firmer than other shoes
- Mesh upper is relatively thick
Sizes: 5-12 (half sizes and extra-wide sizes available) | Colors: 6 (plus design-your-own)
The best walking shoes have a barely-there feel, like feathers on your feet, but they’re also durable enough that they don’t start disintegrating after a handful of walks. And Nike’s Invincible 3 finds the perfect balance: It weighs only 8 ounces for a women’s size 7, thanks to the thin upper and airy foam, which delivers an incredibly soft and responsive walk. But because the upper is made of knit material, rather than mesh, it won’t degrade as quickly and is more resistant to holes. Overall, the shoe’s minimalist design helps to ensure nothing weighs you down, making it ideal for those long, leisurely strolls around your neighborhood.
Pros:
- High stack of bouncy cushioning
- Lightweight
- Comes in regular and extra wide sizes
- Option to design your own color
Cons:
- Higher price tag
- Wider heel cup may not work for everyone
Sizes: 5-12 (unisex, half sizes available) | Colors: 14 (plus design-your-own)
These shoes may look more like dad shoes than like the max cushion running shoes you may be used to seeing, but they have a hefty platform of cushioning in the heel, just where you need it when you’re walking for miles. I’ve worn them while around New York City for a day full of work and errands, and they’re exceedingly comfortable—no heel pain when I get home. But they’re also versatile enough to wear during cardio workouts or when you want to add a bit of vintage aesthetic to your outfit.
Pros:
- Wide stack of cushioning under the heel
- Mesh upper is light and breathable
- Fun metallic overlays and accents
Cons:
- Early aughts aesthetic is divisive
- No wide sizes
Sizes: 5-12 (half sizes available) | Colors: 7
Suitable for daily walks, the Waffle Debut combines simplicity, comfort, and affordability, so it’s a smart choice for the budget-conscious walkers among us. At only $75 (and often on sale), this shoe gives us a lot to love. The EVA midsole provides plenty of comfort on long walks, and the textured outsole ensures you stay firmly planted to the ground even when it gets slippery. Plus, you can’t beat the retro design that never goes out of style.
Pros:
- Under $100
- Simple and stylish
- Durable outsole
Cons:
- Relatively narrow (and no wide option)
- Nylon and synthetic upper isn’t very breathable
Is Nike good for walking?
From lifestyle to performance running to basketball, Nike shoes run the gamut. But, because of this range, only some are well-suited for walking, says Derek Roach, a foot health specialist and owner of retailer Flow Feet Orthopedic Shoes. Kathryn Miller, a podiatrist and the director of In Stride Clinic, adds that you’ll also want to consider the differences between walking and running shoes. Walking shoes are designed with the heel and arch in mind, Miller says, to accommodate the rolling action of walking. Running shoes, on the other hand, are “made for forward motion and impact absorption during running and have more cushioning in the forefoot,” she explains. If you’re using running shoes for walking, you should look for a pair with relatively standard features—known as “daily trainers”—compared to all the glitzy running shoes that are designed for performance and speed.
What to look for
Our experts say that, when shopping for any walking shoes you should pay attention to the shoe’s specific features to determine if they’ll be comfortable for long distances. These features include cushioning, support, and flexibility. The cushioning, which sits underfoot, is what will keep you comfortable for miles and miles. “Styles made with an EVA foam provide shock absorption as the heel impacts the ground and rolls forward to the toes while walking,” Roach explains. Support features like a supportive heel cup, adjustable laces, and a contoured insole for arch support are all important to look out for.
The shoe’s flexibility—basically if it bends easily or is stiff—should also be a consideration, but is more of a personal preference. “The flexibility of the walking shoe can also help with comfort by allowing your foot to move naturally during wear,” Roach adds. He recommends choosing a style with a flexible outsole and upper materials, but for people who need more support, a stiffer, more structured shoe can be beneficial.
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