Coodo Womens Lightweight Athletic Sneakers Go Easy Walking Casual Comfort Running Shoes Cd8005

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Choosing the right walking shoes is always important. But the decision is especially crucial for seniors, who need shoes that are supportive, well-fitting, and durable.

"As we age, we more commonly experience bunions, hammertoes, arthritis, plantar fasciitis, and other foot disorders. So seniors need shoes that can accommodate these conditions and make them as comfortable as possible," Damian Roussel, DPM, a podiatrist for the Centers for Advanced Orthopaedics, says.

When selecting shoes, seniors should look for excellent cushioned support, good traction, breathable and moisture-wicking materials, and a roomy toe box. If they have flat feet or fallen arches, they'll also need good arch support or shoes with removable insoles that can be replaced with orthotics or other in-shoe devices.

We chose the best walking shoes for seniors by researching over 50 pairs of shoes from ten trusted brands. We also consulted experts to decide which features were most important in walking shoes. We looked at the shoes' materials, performance, design, durability, and more.

Based on our research, here are the best walking shoes for seniors on the market.

Zappos

Pros

• Available in three widths
  

• Good traction

• Durable

The 608v5 sneakers earned our top spot thanks to their durability, support, and overall performance. New Balance is a favorite brand among both seniors and fitness walkers and with good reason. Well-made and comfortable, New Balance shoes can often serve double-duty for both exercise and casual wear, as is the case with this pair.

The shoes come in three different width options, so they can accommodate narrow or wide feet. We also recommend them for those who need extra room for orthotics or insoles. The soft yet springy midsole offers good shock absorption and responsiveness, even when walking long distances. And they're stable and supportive, without feeling too bulky or stiff.

With a leather and mesh upper and a grippy, non-marking outsole, we like that the 608v5 offers reliable protection and traction on different surfaces in most weather conditions. Plus, they come with a reasonable price tag, making them a great value for high-quality, leather shoes.

Weight: 14 ounces | Closure: Lace-up | Materials: Leather and mesh upper, rubber outsole | Cushioning: Soft and flexible | Care and washability: Hand wash, air dry

Courtesy of Walmart

Pros

• Excellent cushioning

• Good arch and heel support

• Quality materials

Cons

• May feel stiff at first

Vionic's Walker Classic walking shoe is designed to offer exceptional comfort and stability, which is why they're a perennial favorite among seniors (and our other best overall pick). With a durable leather upper and sporty design, they're ideal for fitness walking or all-day casual wear.

We like that the shoe's heel offers firm support as well as ample cushioning, which can be helpful for seniors who are prone to plantar fasciitis and are hoping to avoid a recurrence. For even more heel protection, a thermoplastic heel counter helps to lock in the rearfoot.

The Walker Classic also has a removable podiatrist-designed orthotic that provides good arch support and stability. A durable rubber outsole provides additional stability as well as reliable traction. The shoe's flexible EVA foam midsole, padded tongue, and cushioned collar enhance the overall comfort, while a breathable, moisture-wicking mesh lining helps reduce friction and prevent blisters.

With so much support and cushioning, the shoe can feel a bit stiff at first, so you may want to wear them around the house or during short walks for the first few wears.

Weight: Not listed | Closure: Lace-up | Materials: Leather or suede upper, rubber outsole | Cushioning: Medium-density | Care and washability: Wipe with a clean cloth

Amazon

Pros

• Good shock absorption

• Hook-and-loop straps

• Great traction

Cons

• Only a few color options

Avia's Avi-Union II shoes provide excellent support, comfort, and traction—all at a budget-friendly price. They're designed with walking in mind, but we also recommend them for older walkers who need lightweight, comfortable shoes for work, casual wear, or traveling.

The shoe's midsole is constructed with molded EVA foam, which offers great cushioning and shock absorption. Plus, Avia's Cantilever technology centers and stabilizes the heel, meaning the heel and sole are designed to help soften the impact and provide stability.

The thick rubber soles feature a slip-resistant tread pattern for secure footing on slippery indoor or outdoor surfaces. We like that you can choose from three different widths, so it's easy to find the right size. The durable hook-and-loop straps allow for a secure, adjustable fit and are ideal for seniors who may have trouble with laces.

Weight: Not listed | Closure: Hook-and-loop straps | Materials: Synthetic upper, rubber sole | Cushioning: Medium | Care and washability: Hand wash, air dry

Courtesy of Amazon

Pros

• Excellent traction

• Slip-on design for easy on and off

• Lightweight

Cons

• May be too narrow for some

For a versatile, budget-friendly shoe that keeps your feet comfy and supported, we recommend the Tiosebon Athletic Walking Shoe. This soft pair is constructed from a premium knit upper for a comfy, lightweight feel. But it still offers plenty of support and stability, thanks to a durable, thick outsole and a latex arch insert.

Ideal for walking or everyday wear, the shoe features a convenient, slip-on design and a thick layer of memory foam cushioning for cloud-like comfort. A stretchy, soft collar makes it easy to slide them on, while also providing a secure, snug fit.

The breathable mesh upper and sock liner keeps feet dry and cool, making these sneakers a nice choice for warm weather walks or summer travel. With a rubber sole, the shoe also provides good stability and grippy traction on all types of surfaces. We also like that the shoes are sustainably made, using recycled fabrics and plastic bottles.

Weight: 5 ounces | Closure: Slip-on | Materials: Knit upper, rubber outsole | Cushioning: Memory foam | Care and washability: Machine wash, air dry

Amazon

Pros

• Good support and stability

• Excellent cushioning

• Comes in five widths

Cons

• May be too warm for hot weather

Designed with a wide forefoot and heel base, the Propet Stability Walker Sneaker provides excellent stability, making it a smart choice for seniors with concerns about balance. Its durable rubber outsole with multi-directional tread also provides dependable traction on indoor and outdoor surfaces. We love that the shoes also feature a contoured heel stabilizer to help keep the foot in place.

With a lightweight, molded EVA midsole, the Stability Walker offers the right amount of cushioning and shock absorption to prevent foot fatigue. The padded collar and tongue help support the ankle, which is why we recommend this shoe for seniors with weak ankles or prior ankle injuries.

Although the leather upper is perforated for breathability, the shoes may be a bit too warm to wear in hot weather. However, they're still our top choice for seniors who need dependable support and stability in a walking shoe. And they come in five widths—narrow, regular, wide, extra-wide, and extra-extra wide—so it's easy to get a proper fit.

Weight: 10.6 ounces | Closure: Lace-up | Materials: Leather upper, rubber sole | Cushioning: Medium | Care and washability: Hand wash, air dry

Zappos

Pros

• Excellent cushioning

• Durable

• Breathable

With thick cushioning, we recommend the Hoka Bondi 7 shoe for seniors who prioritize comfort and shock absorption. Its full-length midsole offers a plush yet supportive feel.

The shoe also features a soft, memory-foam collar, which adds to the overall comfort and helps provide a snug, secure fit. An internal heel counter provides good support and a locked-in feel, while the shoe's sturdy rubber outsole provides reliable traction and enhances the shoe's overall stability.

Despite its excellent cushioning and stability, we like that the Bondi is still lightweight, so your feet don't feel weighed down. The mesh upper also provides good breathability, which helps with blister prevention. With a thick, wide sole, the Bondi may not be the most stylish option, but it's ideal for seniors who need a supportive, well-cushioned walking shoe.

Weight: 8.9 ounces | Closure: Lace-up | Materials: Synthetic and mesh upper, rubber outsole | Cushioning: Thick and plush throughout | Care and washability: Hand wash, air dry

Orthofeet

Pros

• Great arch support

• Excellent cushioning

• Wide toe box

Boasting both excellent cushioning and arch support, the Orthafeet Francis Walking Shoes can help provide relief of plantar fasciitis symptoms and even prevent them from popping up again in the future. The shoe's orthotic insoles conform to the shape of the foot, offering plush comfort and good stability. And we love that the shoe has plenty of cushioning in the heel area—exactly where those with plantar fasciitis need it most.

With a wide toe box, the shoe offers extra space for toe movement. Seniors who need even more room in the front can choose between the wide and extra-wide options. Plus, the soft, stretchable, and seam-free upper eliminates pressure points and friction, helping to avoid other painful foot issues like bunions and blisters.

The extra-depth design also allows plenty of room for those who prefer to use custom orthotics. The shoes come with adjustable, no-tie laces that make it easy to get the right fit, with no worries about laces coming undone.

Weight: Not listed | Closure: Adjustable, no-tie laces | Materials: Synthetic upper, rubber outsole | Cushioning: High | Care and washability: Hand wash, air dry

Amazon

Pros

• Excellent cushioning

• Comes in two widths

• Good stability

Saucony's Omni Walker 3 offers the perfect combination of plush cushioning and stability, which is not easy to find in a walking shoe. They provide good support and motion control for overpronators, whose feet tend to roll inward as they walk. But we like that these shoes aren't overly stiff or heavy, with padding that's lightweight and springy. Additionally, the durable, slip-resistant rubber sole offers seniors the reliable traction they need.

The shoe also boasts a spacious toe box, which cuts down on potential irritation, while a padded tongue and collar offer even more comfort. Plus, it comes in wide sizes, for those who may need more room for orthotics.

While it's designed for walking, the Saucony Omni Walker 3 has a sleek leather upper, making it a stylish and versatile option for everyday wear. But it's worth noting that the leather isn't as breathable as walking shoes with mesh uppers usually are—which is why we recommend this shoe for walking in mild or cold weather, but not hot climates.

Weight: 11.6 ounces | Closure: Adjustable, no-tie laces | Materials: Synthetic upper, rubber outsole | Cushioning: High | Care and washability: Hand wash, air dry

Amazon

Pros

• Breathable

• Hook-and-loop straps

• Available in five widths

Cons

• Only a few color options

Although it's lightweight, we recommend the Propét Stability X-Strap shoe for its comfort and stability. The built-in contoured heel stabilizer and extra-wide rubber outsole help with balance, while the midsole includes good arch support for all-day comfort. This pair also features a gel heel pad, a padded tongue, and a cushioned collar to keep your feet free from fatigue.

Constructed with breathable mesh, the upper is light and flexible, keeping feet cool and dry while you're walking. The sneaker's hook-and-loop strap is a convenient alternative to shoelaces and can be easily adjusted for an ideal fit. We also like that it has a pull tab on the heel, which makes putting the shoe on and taking it off easier. And with five different widths to choose from, the Propét Stability X-Strap can accommodate a large range of foot shapes and sizes.

Weight: 10 ounces | Closure: Hoop-and-loop strap | Materials: Mesh and leather upper, rubber outsole | Cushioning: Medium | Care and washability: Hand wash, air dry

Sketchers

Pros

• Great traction

• Sleek, sporty design

• Wide toe box

Skechers' Sport Afterburn Slip-on Sneaker has a slip-on design that makes them easy to get on and off, yet still provides the supportive, snug fit you'd expect from a lace-up shoe. We recommend this sporty sneaker for both fitness walking and casual wear.

The shoe's memory foam footbed offers plush comfort and good shock absorption, while also helping to keep feet cool and dry. We love that this pair also offers plenty of arch and ankle support, which is not often the case with slip-on shoes. Plus, the flexible rubber sole has exceptional traction to keep seniors sure-footed on all surfaces.

The shoe also features a roomy toe box that helps to avoid any pressure points on bunions or hammertoes. That being said, the shoe doesn't come in wide sizes, so it may not work for wearers with wide feet.

Weight: 12 ounces | Closure: Slip-on | Materials: Leather, synthetic, and mesh upper, rubber sole | Cushioning: Medium | Care and washability: Hand wash, air dry

Courtesy of Amazon

Pros

• Lightweight

• Comes in three widths

• Budget-friendly

If you like the ease and convenience of a slip-on shoe, we recommend Skechers' Go Walk Joy sneakers. Like many slip-ons, this shoe has a flexible, breathable mesh upper, so it's comfortable enough for all-day wear, even in warmer weather.

Despite their streamlined look and lightweight feel, these budget-friendly shoes still offer good arch support and cushioning. The upper stretches to comfortably accommodate bunions or hammertoes without looking bulky, while the durable rubber sole provides excellent stability.

The shoes come in narrow, regular, and wide sizes so you can find the right fit. Plus, the shoe's slip-on design and pull tab make it easy to put the shoe on and take it off. We also love that they're machine washable, so you can toss them in the wash to keep them looking (and smelling) fresh.

Note that the shoes' soles may sound squeaky at first on some indoor surfaces, but the noise should stop after a few walks outside.

Weight: 5.2 ounces | Closure: Slip-on | Materials: Rubber sole, synthetic upper | Cushioning: Medium | Care and washability: Machine wash cold, air dry

Final Verdict

New Balance's 608v5 sneaker earns our top spot for its excellent grip, support, and overall performance. At a budget-friendly price, they're an excellent value for a high-quality, all-around walking shoe. Supportive and durable, we also recommend the Vionic Women's Walker Classic because they offer soft yet responsive cushioning, as well as good stability and reliable traction.

How We Selected the Best Walking Shoes for Seniors

To develop our list of the best walking shoes for seniors, we first spoke with podiatrists Damian Roussel, DPM, and Tyler Miranda, DPM, to get their expert opinion on which features to look for in a good pair of walking shoes for seniors. We also consulted Dr. Pamela Mehta, an orthopedic surgeon, for her advice on how walking shoes should fit.

Then, we researched over 50 pairs of shoes from the top trusted brands. We considered key features like fit, comfort, support, stability, materials, traction, durability, and value. We also reviewed the list of products that have earned the American Podiatric Medical Association's Seals of Acceptance and Approval.

What to Look For in Walking Shoes for Seniors

Fit

Seniors need a well-fitting shoe in order to get the right support and stability. When trying on shoes, check that your heel fits comfortably in the shoe and doesn't slide as you're walking. For the proper width, make sure the shoe feels snug, but not too tight. Also, consider trying on narrow, wide, and extra-wide widths.

You should be able to wiggle your toes in the shoe, so aim for at least a half-inch (or about the width of one finger) between your longest toe and the end of the shoe. "Seniors may experience foot swelling, bunions, or hammertoes, so they should look for a shoe with a spacious toe box," Dr. Roussel says.

Cushioning

"Seniors can benefit from extra cushioned support, as we tend to lose the natural fat padding under the foot as we age," Dr. Roussel says. Look for shoes with a cushioned insole and a soft, shock-absorbing midsole with a contoured design that will provide comfort and reduce impact. Some shoes come with removable footbeds or insoles, if you prefer to use your own orthotics or insoles.

Stability

The right shoes can help improve stability for older people who may struggle with mobility or balance issues. Look for sneakers with a stable, firm heel and an even, supportive outer sole. "A shoe with a sole that bends easily and is too flexible on the bottom of the arch is not appropriate and will lead to more issues," Tyler Miranda, DPM, a New York-based podiatrist, says.

Traction

Seniors also need shoes with durable and slip-resistant soles to help prevent slips and falls. Look for a pair with rubber soles that have a lug pattern with good grip and traction.

Materials

Seniors should look for shoes made from durable materials, especially when it comes to the outsole. Rubber provides excellent traction and support. Mesh and leather are good options for the upper, since they'll feel soft and gentle against the feet. "Look for shoes with breathable and moisture-wicking material, which will help prevent uncomfortable sweating," Dr. Roussel says.

Closure

Some seniors with less flexibility may need a shoe that's easy to put on and take off. "Velcro straps instead of laces and shoes that open wide enough at the foot entry point can make getting in and out of shoes easier," Dr. Miranda says.

Frequently Asked Questions

• What is the difference between a training shoe and a walking shoe?

  Walking shoes are designed with the specific body mechanics of walking in mind, so they also offer good arch support and have more flex at the forefoot for pushing off. On the other hand, training shoes have good ankle support for both forward and lateral movement.

  Training shoes are also usually flexible and responsive to allow for quick movements while walking shoes are typically heavier to promote good stability. Walking shoes also tend to have more cushioning and support around the ball of the foot and the heel to help the wearer maintain proper foot alignment.

• Why should seniors buy senior-specific walking shoes?

  "Seniors have a variety of specific shoe gear needs that often relate to the influence of aging on feet and overall health," Dr. Miranda says. Wearing walking shoes that provide a sturdy, stable base and cushioned support can help seniors improve their balance and avoid falls. Well-made, high-quality shoes with a spacious toe box can also help correct and prevent foot issues like bunions, blisters, and hammertoes.

• What are the health benefits of regular walking for seniors?

  Walking is an excellent way for seniors to stay active and get their recommended daily amount of physical activity to reduce health risks. Regular brisk walking can help improve heart health for older people, and may also provide benefits for people living with high blood pressure, arthritis, and diabetes. People who are physically active live longer and have a lower risk for stroke, depression, and some cancers.

• How long do walking shoes last before they have to be replaced?

  In general, walking shoes will last about 350 to 500 miles before the cushioning and support wear out. But it depends on how often you wear them, your weight, the shoes' durability, and the surfaces you're walking on. Check your shoes for signs of wear, like worn tread or too much creasing in the midsole. "Experiencing foot pain may also be a sign that the shoes need replacing as they're not providing the appropriate support any longer," Dr. Pamela Mehta, orthopedic surgeon and medical advisor to The Good Feet Store, says.

Why Trust Verywell Fit

As a running coach, certified personal trainer, marathon runner, and fitness writer, Christine Luff, ACE-CPT, has spent years researching and recommending running and walking shoes. For comfort and to reduce your risk of injury, she suggests getting properly fitted for walking shoes and replacing them regularly.

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Source: https://www.verywellfit.com/best-walking-shoes-for-seniors-6362701

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