Health & Medical Lifestyle

Best Walking Shoes for Seniors (2024)

Best Walking Shoes for Seniors

If you are looking for the right pair of best walking shoes for seniors, read on. This article will explore some of the best walking shoes for elderly people out there.

The Best Walking Shoes for Seniors

Our Women's Pick
Adidas Women’s Ultraboost 20 Running Shoes
Our Men's Pick
OrthoFeet’s Verve Tie-Less Lace Shoes
adidas Women's Ultraboost 20 Running Shoe, Black/Night Metallic/White, 5.5 M US
Orthofeet Men's Sprint Walking Shoe, Blue, 10 X-Wide
-
-
4.7 Stars
4.1 Stars
4k+ Reviews
1k+ Reviews
84% rated 5 Stars
60% rated 5 Stars
$105.00
$113.14
Our Women's Pick
Adidas Women’s Ultraboost 20 Running Shoes
adidas Women's Ultraboost 20 Running Shoe, Black/Night Metallic/White, 5.5 M US
-
4.7 Stars
4k+ Reviews
84% rated 5 Stars
$105.00
Our Men's Pick
OrthoFeet’s Verve Tie-Less Lace Shoes
Orthofeet Men's Sprint Walking Shoe, Blue, 10 X-Wide
-
4.1 Stars
1k+ Reviews
60% rated 5 Stars
$113.14

Now that we have shown you what you need to look for, it is time to start looking at some of the best walking shoes for seniors available on the market.

These varieties include slip-on, tie, and velcro shoes.

Finding the right shoes will make the biggest difference to your walking experience. Here are some of the best on the market.

SaleBestseller No. 1
Besroad Women's Comfortable Working Nurse Shoes Non-Slip Adjustable Breathable Walking Buffer...
  • Convenient Hook and Loop Design: Extra wide width diabetic slippers with adjustable design,it can be...
  • Wide Toe Box: These barefoot shoes are designed with a wide toe box allows your toes to move freely...
  • Breathable Upper:Womens walking shoes made of high quality stretchy Knit Upper which has a good...
Bestseller No. 2
Skechers mens Go Max-athletic Air Mesh Slip on Walking Shoe, Black/White, 9.5 X-Wide US
  • Lightweight, responsive 5Gen cushioning
  • Skechers Goga Max high-rebound insole for maximum comfort
  • Breathable mesh upper
SaleBestseller No. 3
Skechers Women's Go Walk 5 Sneaker, Black, 7
  • Lightweight and responsive Ultra Go midsole cushioning
  • Skechers Air Cooled Goga Mat breathable insole with high-rebound cushioning
  • Breathable athletic knit mesh upper

Walking Shoes for Senior Women


OrthoFeet’s Serene Women’s Shoes

Many orthopedic shoes look clunky and have absolutely zero style, but the Serene Women’s Shoes by OrthoFeet look elegant and are carefully designed to create the best walking shoes for seniors.

They fit really well and offer more in the toe box area than most, which is crucial if you’re dealing with painful toe-related conditions like bunions or hammertoes.

OrthoFeet’s Serene is a premium design with exceptional arch support and the interior is made from an anti-microbial fabric and foam, which means you won’t have to worry about unpleasant odors.

Sale
Orthofeet Women's Orthopedic Tan Serene Leather Casual Shoes, Size 10 Wide
  • Women's casual shoe with the perfect combination of ventilated comfort and supple leather protection...
  • Soft leather upper offers a non-binding fit that is durable and easy-to-clean
  • Orthofeet shoes have unmatched cushioning and benefit 20+ conditions including foot and heel pain,...

OrthoFeet’s Serene Women’s Shoes

Thumbs Up - Pros

Pros

  • Exceptional quality
  • An extra-wide toe box makes for additional comfort
  • The antimicrobial materials help people with foot fungal conditions
  • Leather exterior
  • Helps to alleviate foot pain

Thumbs Down - Cons

Cons

  • The shoe may start to squeak when used


Hush Puppies Women’s Power Walker

The name Hush Puppies has long been associated with fashionable and durability. And these Hush Puppies Power Walker has style and performance in abundance.

Affordable, but its 100% leather exterior and well-made rubber sole means it exudes quality out of every seam.

A supportive heel height for most people and the Drilex sock lining technology keeps your feet cool, making them suitable for any climate.

In addition, the removable footbed makes for easier maintenance.

The outsole is where it comes into its own. The Bounce technology offers premium double density and the shock absorption properties are fantastic.

Hush Puppies Women’s Power Walker

Thumbs Up - Pros

Pros

  • Affordable
  • Quality leather
  • Excellent outsole

Thumbs Down - Cons

Cons

  • Some people might not like the laces


Skechers Performance Women’s Go Walk 4

This super lightweight and extremely breathable shoe is an excellent model from Sketchers that complements all styles in your wardrobe.

But portability and lightweight features are often the reasons why some walking shoes are expensive, the Sketchers Go Walk 4 doesn’t compromise quality for the sake of lower prices.

The 5GEN midsole design delivers a comfortable walking experience and cushioning with the right amount of arch support.

Orthopedic shoes, but not in the classic sense, Sketchers offers their shoes in wide options as well, so they fit almost anyone.

Sale
Skechers Performance Women's Go Walk 4 Kindle Slip-On Walking Shoe,Navy/White,8 M US
  • Radically lightweight
  • Innovative and highly responsive 5GEN midsole cushioning
  • New Goga Max high rebound footbed energizes every step

Skechers Performance Women's Go Walk 4

Thumbs Up - Pros

Pros

  • Great for travel
  • A contemporary design
  • Unprecedented light-weight
  • 100% mesh

Thumbs Down - Cons

Cons

  • Not enough protection


Adidas Women’s Ultraboost 20 Running Shoes

The Adidas Women’s Ultraboost 20 are one of the best walking shoes for the elderly, with stretchy and breathable textile uppers for all-day comfort wearing.

The adaptive knit upper wraps the foot and aids natural movements.

The well-cushioned soles and midsoles that contain 20% more Boost energize every step, and the grippy Continental outsoles offer traction and grips for fall and slip prevention.

Overall, these shoes are great for light runners with all the support and features needed.

adidas Women's Ultraboost 20 Running Shoe, Black/Night Metallic/White, 5.5 M US
  • Snug, sock-like fit
  • Responsive Boost midsole
  • adidas Primeknit+ textile upper

Adidas Women’s Ultraboost 20 Running Shoes

Thumbs Up - Pros

Pros

  • Super comfortable
  • Lightweight
  • Shoes fit perfectly
  • Roomy toe box
  • Great support
  • A sporty, dynamic look
  • Various color options

Thumbs Down - Cons

Cons

  • Difficult to clean
  • A bit large

Walking Shoes for Senior Men


Propét Men’s Stability Walker Strap Walking Shoe

The discomfort brought upon by symptoms of neuropathy can make anyone feel uncomfortable, and this stops so many people from venturing out on walks.

But why should anyone miss out on walks because they’re afraid that certain symptoms will kick in?

Propét Stability is recommended as one of the best shoes diabetic patients should wear.

Recommended by medical experts due to their quality and long-lasting results, Propét shoes deliver on so many levels.

The full-grain leather exterior has excellent stitching and breathability due to its sophisticated perforations.

Boasting two adjustable straps with fasteners and a padded tongue, it provides comprehensive comfort too.

The interior is made of a nylon lining and with impressive moisture-wicking. There is plenty of support in the heel and extra stability, and the removable insole is a great extra feature.

The cushioning ridges mean you can walk around all day long without your feet getting too sore. The midsole provides that important shock absorption effect, resulting in a light yet sturdy feel.

The rubber outsole provides strong ankle support, whether using the stairs or even making sudden movements.

Sale
Propét Mens Sneaker Stability Walker Strap, Black, 13 X-Wide US
  • Adjustable hook and loop closure with padded collar and tongue
  • Rigid heel counter with removable pu footbed
  • A5500 medicare approved for diabetic footwear

Propét Men's Stability Walker Strap Walking Shoe

Thumbs Up - Pros

Pros

  • Very durable
  • A universal design that caters to all types
  • Medicare-approved
  • Ultra-stable
  • Great value

Thumbs Down - Cons

Cons

  • Might be on the bulky side


Saucony Men’s Echelon 7 Running Shoe

While you may be looking for the best walking shoes, finding shoes that aid running is also crucial, which is where the Saucony Echelon 7 can help.

Saucony is a trusted brand for runners, and the Echelon 7 is perfect for people with wide feet and low arches who are looking to turn their walk into something more.

A very tough shoe and built to last, made from a super lightweight material that provides sufficient airflow.

In addition, the tongue and collar won’t damage the most sensitive of skin, and the Tri-Flex outsole offers so much flexibility for any foot.

Adaptable, and works well on wet roads and hiking trails, combined with the shock absorption foam and TPU fused together, this results in a super-smooth and cushiony jog or walk.

Overall, a great walking shoe for men who practice a more active lifestyle, but are struggling with foot, knee, or back pain.

Saucony Men's Echelon 7 Running Shoe, Grey | Black, 15 Wide
  • A roomy toe box provides ample room for feet to splay, while the midfoot and heel elements frame...
  • The Echelon 7 is also helpful for runners who suffer from under pronation, also known as supination.

Saucony Men's Echelon 7 Running Shoe

Thumbs Up - Pros

Pros

  • Great for active seniors
  • Light-weight
  • Breathable material
  • Excellent arch support

Thumbs Down - Cons

Cons

  • Might be too bouncy for some

Walking Shoes for Senior Men and Women


OrthoFeet’s Verve Tie-Less Lace Shoes

Everyone knows that walking is incredibly good for your health, but walking long distances can be very uncomfortable, and this is usually due to the wrong choice of walking shoes.

OrthoFeet has created premium walking shoes for men and women as well as seniors, such as this Verve Tie-less lace model.

The tie-less lacing system is great for people with arthritis. The laces and the strap works in combination on both sides of the shoe to provide instant access.

In addition, the heel strap adjusts the grip to deliver a customized fit. The insoles are orthotic and the cushioning is great for sufferers of plantar fasciitis or other types of heel pain.

The soles are ergonomic, and the interior is soft and protective. The Verve Tie-less lace model has a wide toe, adding extra comfort for men and women with bunions and hammertoes.

A great shoe for people who need strength and support in every way.

Sale
Women's - OrthoFeet’s Verve Tie-Less Lace Shoes
  • This sporty orthopedic shoe for women features a tie-less closure and Ortho-Cushion Support that...
  • Featuring an adjustable heel strap that allows you loosen or tighten the grip around the heel to...
  • Orthofeet shoes have unmatched cushioning and benefit 20+ conditions including foot and heel pain,...
Men's - OrthoFeet’s Verve Tie-Less Lace Shoes
  • Tie-Less Lacing System eliminates the need to tie laces
  • Microfiber and fabric upper offers comfort and breathability
  • Heel strap enables to adjust the grip around the heel

OrthoFeet’s Verve Tie-Less Lace Shoes

Thumbs Up - Pros

Pros

  • Innovative Tie-less lace system
  • Extremely comfortable
  • Very stable
  • Wide toe box

Thumbs Down - Cons

Cons

  • Insufficient ankle support

A Few Things to Know About Aging Feet

As we get older, we can begin to feel the aches and pains so much more. And we place a bigger demand on every part of our bodies.

What’s more, the demand we place on our feet becomes ever more obvious with every passing year. 

Related: 10 Best Shoes for Elderly Swollen Feet

Whether we are looking to go on a walking holiday, or we have been told by the doctor to be more active, our feet seem to be one of the first parts of our body that shows signs of wear and tear.

Getting older means that our feet are more prone to a variety of health issues and conditions.

Needless to say, you have to look after your feet as you get older as it provides you with the support to advance into old age with grace.

Therefore, investing in shoes that provide comfort, support, and protection, are not just going to help us look after our feet, but they can be a lifeline.

Related: Best Velcro Shoes for Elderly Ladies & Men (Picked by Seniors)

Healthy feet are, in so many ways, the foundation for our overall health. Healthy feet will be a catalyst for moving healthily, having sufficient activity in our lives, and therefore, an overall healthy lifestyle.

A lot has been spoken about the benefits of walking, as well as general exercise, such as getting out in the sunshine. But as you get older, the potential for wear and tear slowly begins to increase.

As we get older, the lifetime of using our feet for walking, driving, and exercise can mean that, in combination with lifestyle changes arising from getting older, a few problems start to creep up.

There are things that may happen to you as you get older…

Obesity 

As we get older, we may start to pick up extra weight, sometimes known as the middle-age spread. When we gain a few extra pounds, this will place more strain on our skeletal system.

As our skeleton is the support system for our joints and our feet, we can end up feeling more pain and discomfort. If we feel pain in our feet, this could result in a higher likelihood of injury.

A Reduction of Fat in Our Feet

We are all born with padding under our feet, and this is predominantly noticeable in the heels. But as we get older, this padding may diminish.

If you lose weight, this padding can slowly disappear, which can lead to discomfort and pain.

The padding in your feet acts as a shock absorber. And this lack of shock absorbency can result in conditions like bunions and calluses.

Circulatory Issues

The elderly are more prone to poor circulation, and this can arise from health conditions that are more widespread in the elderly, such as diabetes and conditions like neuropathy, which is the damage or dysfunction of your nerves.

The symptoms of neuropathy consist of tingling, numbness, muscle weakness, and pain. This is a type of nerve damage that is mainly felt in your hands and your feet.

We can also experience a variety of foot ailments. In addition to calluses and bunions, we could experience corns, hammertoes, and plantar fasciitis.

These all become more widespread as we get older. The solution? Looking after our feet more and investing in comfortable footwear solutions.

As you can see, no matter how much you try to look after yourself, entering old age can naturally give way to a number of conditions in the feet.

This is why we need to choose the best footwear now, to look after our feet now, in old age, and beyond.

Tips on Choosing the Best Walking Shoes for Old People

Shopping for walking shoes for seniors can be a complicated process. There are a wide variety of shoes available on the market.

You may already have preferences for the type of shoe you’d like to wear. However, as you get older, it is important to let go of this preconceived idea.

Comfort is more important as you get older, and some of the most important tips as follows…

The Right Fit

Picking a shoe with more toe room and a wider fit is essential.

When you are looking for the best comfort shoes for seniors, you must remember that a comfortable fit will help if you experience any foot conditions or swelling.

With the right shoe, make sure that you choose a size that has a thumbnail’s extra length between the toe and the shoe to allow extra comfort.

Shoes With Stability

As we get older, we can lose our sense of balance. As we get older, choosing shoes with stability features becomes more necessary.

When looking for good walking shoes for seniors, the best stability features include a heel cup, arch supports, a contoured footbed, as well as a supportive sole that is well balanced.

These will all work together to make a solid and stable shoe.

Choose Shoes With Less Friction

The interior of the shoe needs the right materials so it does not irritate your skin.

The interior needs to be seamless, and as our skin becomes softer, we are more prone to chafing, making comfort an absolute essential as we get older.

Related: Best Non Skid Slipper Socks for Elderly (No More Falls)

Uncomfortable shoes or socks can give us blisters and sores.

Cushioning

As our feet age, a shoe with ample cushioning will protect us against any impact.

Whether we are walking or running, the impacts of how our foot hits the ground can cause further aches and pains.

Slip-Resistant Soles

Getting older means an increased risk of slipping on on any floor surface. Picking a good slip-resistant rubber sole will give you further stability and decrease the likelihood of slipping.

Sleeping becomes more common in old age, but it can be deadly if we slip on the wrong surface.

The Features of a Good Elderly Walking Shoe

Picking the right shoe is about finding something that feels right. However, there are a few extra things to consider:

  • Find shoes cushioned with EVA, Ortholite, or Memory Foam or Gel for additional comfort and extra shock absorbency.
  • Find stability features which control motion and prevent a lack of balance.
  • A good walking shoe should have lightweight foam in the midsole.
  • The rubber outsole should be durable and be slip-resistant.
  • The interior linings should be smooth and seamless. This helps to manage moisture within the shoe reducing the potential for fungal infections.
  • A wide-width upper construction will help individuals with foot deformities like bunions and hammertoes.

Final Thoughts on the Best Walking Shoes for Seniors

When it comes to picking the best walking shoes for seniors, there are so many out there. Clearly, you’ve got to choose the style that suits you.

With so many different types of walking shoes out there to suit your style, this is one thing, but it’s important to remember that style might mean we have to compromise our substance.

But when you start to pick the right walking shoes that suit orthopedic conditions, or you are on the lookout for something with a little bit more comfort, this will make a massive difference to the quality of your life.

Related: Bowling Shoes for Seniors (Tips for Picking Out The Best)

Do you just want to go walking on occasion, or you are looking to hike, or tackle your nearby mountains?

The important thing to remember is that it’s always about comfort, and choosing the shoe that feels right.

There are so many different benefits and drawbacks to each one of these shoes, but you will almost certainly find the best walking shoe for your needs.


About

This top-ranked site now has over 4,000 pages of humor, nostalgia, senior advocacy and useful information for seniors 50+. Updates weekly!

The daily e-zine for everyone over 50 who feels way too young to be old.

"...the perfect mix of Andy Rooney, Dave Barry, and Garrison Keilor, combining knee-slapping humor with useful information and genuine compassion."

Retired.com

"Thousands look to and trust Suddenly Senior. Other Websites pale in comparison to the real-life, intimate look into senior lives. What sets apart Suddenly Senior is its blistering honesty and its incomparable encouragement. Millions need guidance."

Suzette Martinez Standring

"Best Senior Site ever on the Web! Great, up-to-date information on how seniors can save money on drugs. Wonderful nostalgia. Hard-hitting senior advocacy pieces that get read in high places. Wonderful humor. It's all at Suddenly Senior."

Alexa.com

KUDOS

Now read by 3.1 million in 83 newspapers from Florida's St. Petersburg Times to the Mumbai, India News.