Weight Loss
The 8 Greatest Strolling Sneakers for Seniors of 2024, Examined
:max_bytes(150000):strip_icc()/vwt-skechers-slipins-go-walk-7-springtime-cathy-bixby-09-6e865fc612224679bd14445e9a4b3531.jpeg?w=1400&resize=1400,800&ssl=1 "The 8 Greatest Strolling Sneakers for Seniors of 2024, Examined")
Oct
Choosing the proper strolling footwear is at all times necessary, however the determination is very essential for seniors who want further assist, consolation, and lodging for particular foot circumstances. As we age, we are inclined to expertise extra foot points, like bunions, hammertoes, arthritis, and plantar fasciitis, says podiatrist Damian Roussel, DPM. These circumstances can impede every day bodily exercise, which is important to prolonging our wholesome years.
To search out the perfect strolling footwear for seniors, we spoke with consultants—together with two podiatrists and an orthopedic surgeon—for enter on what key options to search for. Then, we examined over 60 expert-approved strolling footwear from 14 trusted manufacturers within the Verywell Testing Lab and at residence throughout our every day routines and common walks. The footwear that made our closing listing of suggestions excelled in cushioning, consolation, match, assist, blister safety, and general worth. We additionally had a member of our Overview Board, who’s a bodily therapist and RRCA-certified run coach, evaluation this text for accuracy.
:max_bytes(150000):strip_icc()/brooks-ariel-gts-23-ca6459982ea44afda25e9d1eb51e2845.jpg)
Key Specs
Weight: 10.7 ounces | Closure: Lace-up | Supplies: Mesh higher, foam midsole, rubber outsole | Cushioning: Reasonable | Care and Washability: Hand-wash, air-dry | Our Total Score: 5/5
Who They’re For
Greatest for health walkers or these with plantar fasciitis who desire a comfy, cushioned shoe for lengthy walks or all-day put on.
Why We Love Them
Brooks’ Ariel GTS 23 Sneakers earned our high spot for older adults due to their stability, cushioning, and assist—notably for seniors with foot circumstances like plantar fasciitis and Achilles accidents. Throughout testing, these footwear offered distinctive consolation throughout high-impact actions, because of the strong shock absorption and safe match. We additionally appreciated the shoe’s skill to alleviate knee ache and assist us keep stability.
The footwear offered constant assist, permitting us to put on them comfortably all day, throughout lengthy intervals of standing and strolling. Our toes felt aligned and secure when strolling on varied surfaces, together with grass, concrete, and an indoor monitor, in addition to when going up or down hills. We had been additionally impressed with the shoe’s responsive really feel, which helped us keep a pure strolling stride and stored us gentle on our toes.
Additionally out there in males’s sizes at Amazon, Zappos, and Fleet Toes.
Potential Flaws
- After we first tried on this pair, they felt a bit tight, however we had been in a position to alter the laces for a cushty match.
Most Useful Perception
“These offered me sufficient cushioning to assist me for high-impact actions like stairs and strolling for lengthy intervals of time. I really feel like my posture is best whereas carrying these due to the assist and alignment they supply.” —Christine Kennedy, Verywell Match product tester
Meet Our Tester
Our tester walks for train on an indoor monitor and sidewalks at the very least 4 occasions every week. She has a historical past of plantar fasciitis and an Achilles harm, so she wants a supportive strolling shoe.
:max_bytes(150000):strip_icc()/Asics-Womens-Gel-Contend-9-Walking-Shoes1-45b9d34a674a4f20ad92d0f3e028baa7.jpg)
Key Specs
Weight: 8.3 ounces | Closure: Lace-up | Supplies: Mesh higher, foam and gel midsole, rubber outsole | Cushioning: Reasonable | Care and Washability: Hand-wash, air-dry | Our Total Score: 5/5
Who They’re For
Greatest for energetic individuals who want a cushty and supportive shoe for health strolling and different actions, like pickleball.
Why We Love Them
After we examined Asics’ Gel-Contend 9 Sneakers, we discovered them to be remarkably comfy and high-performing, particularly contemplating their budget-friendly worth. As quickly as we tried this pair on, we seen that they conformed to the form of our toes and felt extraordinarily supportive. Plus, the grippy rubber outsole stored us regular and protected throughout check walks and when enjoying pickleball.
The froth midsole and gel cushioning within the rear foot mixed to offer delicate, versatile landings and wonderful shock absorption. Our toes, joints, and decrease again felt well-supported and stayed pain-free throughout actions and when standing for lengthy intervals. We additionally just like the shoe’s low-profile, glossy model, which—mixed with its stellar assist and luxury—make it a pleasant selection for all-day informal put on.
Additionally out there in males’s sizes at Zappos and Asics.
Potential Flaws
- We discovered the white footwear troublesome to maintain clear, so we want that this pair was machine-washable.
Most Useful Perception
“The cushion in these footwear is the perfect I’ve skilled. It helps with absorbing shock when strolling, however extra importantly for me, it aids whereas simply standing.” —Connie Pudenz, Verywell Match product tester
Meet Our Tester
Our tester has fallen arches, so she wants a supportive, comfy shoe for strolling and enjoying pickleball. She discovered that carrying these footwear helped forestall the decrease again ache that she typically experiences when standing or strolling on laborious surfaces for lengthy intervals.
:max_bytes(150000):strip_icc()/Hoka-Mens-Clifton-9-Running-Shoe-86fe241208924263a43594437fe53ac1.jpg)
-
Snug match
-
Very sturdy and secure
-
APMA authorised
Key Specs
Weight: 8.7 ounces | Closure: Lace-up | Supplies: Knit higher, foam midsole, rubber outsole | Cushioning: Delicate and responsive | Care and Washability: Hand-wash, air-dry | Our Total Score: 5/5
Who They’re For
Greatest for walkers who need an ultra-cushioned, secure, and supportive shoe that delivers nice shock absorption and dependable traction.
Why We Love Them
For those who choose a well-cushioned sneaker, we advocate Hoka’s Clifton 9 Sneakers. Throughout testing, we discovered they supplied nice cushioning and assist, permitting us to stroll longer distances with out knee or hip ache. We discovered the shoe’s match to be extraordinarily supportive and comfy, making this pair a superb selection for prolonged put on.
Regardless of its ample cushioning, the shoe’s mesh higher nonetheless provides nice breathability and blister prevention. In the meantime, the sturdy rubber outsole offered grippy traction, serving to us really feel balanced and sure-footed when strolling. Plus, this pair has earned the American Podiatric Medical Affiliation’s (APMA) Seal of Acceptance, which means a panel of podiatrists has decided that they assist promote wholesome toes.
Additionally out there in girls’s sizes at Hoka, Zappos, and Dick’s Sporting Items.
Potential Flaws
- After we first tried on this pair, the arch appeared slightly excessive at first, however we discovered it grew to become very comfy over time.
Most Useful Perception
“The footwear carry out effectively it doesn’t matter what I’m doing. I discover that I’m extra comfy strolling longer distances.” —Mark Pudenz, Verywell Match product tester
Meet Our Tester
Our tester often wears sneakers for outside walks on concrete sidewalks. He discovered that the Clifton 9 footwear had rather more cushioning than sneakers he’d beforehand worn, permitting him to stroll pain-free for longer distances.
:max_bytes(150000):strip_icc()/New-Balance-Womens-928-V3-Lace-Up-Walking-Shoe-311d981dcec0449dbfda6109470e07c2.jpg)
-
Good for prolonged put on
-
Very supportive match
-
Engaging model
Key Specs
Weight: 10.9 ounces | Closure: Lace-up or hook and loop | Supplies: Leather-based higher, foam midsole, rubber outsole | Cushioning: Reasonable | Care and Washability: Hand-wash, air-dry | Our Total Score: 4.7/5
Who They’re For
Greatest for older adults with stability points or unstable toes, ankles, and knees who desire a stability shoe that received’t weigh them down.
Why We Love Them
Geared up with built-in applied sciences to ship movement management and stability, New Steadiness’s 928v3 Sneakers are the only option for seniors who want some further assist. Throughout check walks, we seen that they helped stabilize our gait, whereas additionally enhancing our stability and coordination. Our toes and ankles felt well-supported and regular, even when strolling up inclines and on diverse terrain.
The shoe’s engaging leather-based higher and sporty model make this pair superb for both health strolling or informal put on. Plus, they carried out effectively on each indoor and outside surfaces, so that they’re a nice possibility for journey or all-day put on. We additionally love that they arrive in 5 completely different widths, permitting you to get a extra custom-made match.
Additionally out there in males’s sizes at Amazon, New Steadiness, and Zappos.
Potential Flaws
- Though we love this pair’s assist, we discovered the cushioning to be a bit missing, so that they wouldn’t be the only option for high-impact actions.
- Throughout testing, the footwear’ stiff assist made them slightly troublesome to placed on and take off. Nonetheless, they felt extra comfy and simpler to get on with continued put on.
Most Useful Perception
“The footwear really feel extremely secure and make me really feel assured in my steps. I’d positively advocate these footwear to others if they’re in search of a sexy, secure strolling sneaker.” —Jennifer Bullard Broggini, Verywell Match product tester
Meet Our Tester
Our tester is a really energetic senior who enjoys strolling, energy coaching, and Pilates. She has earlier foot and knee accidents, however she discovered that these footwear stored her pain-free whereas strolling and standing for lengthy intervals.
:max_bytes(150000):strip_icc()/kizik-womens-lima-79dd8652461c48f1b70524f8616a3f99.jpg)
Key Specs
Weight: Not listed | Closure: Lace-up | Supplies: Recycled textile higher, foam midsole, rubber outsole | Cushioning: Reasonable | Care and Washability: Hand-wash, air-dry (shoe); machine-wash, air-dry (insole) | Our Total Score: 5/5
Who They’re For
Greatest for older adults who’ve problem tying laces or bending down, in addition to these in search of a comfortable, supportive slip-on shoe for journey or on a regular basis put on.
Why We Love Them
When you have problem tying laces or bending right down to get your footwear on or off, Kizik’s Lima Sneakers may help. They characteristic a bendable heel design that we discovered permits you to simply and effortlessly slip them on and off. Past the hands-free comfort, we had been additionally impressed with the pair’s distinctive consolation and efficiency whereas we had been strolling, dancing, or standing for lengthy intervals.
Throughout testing, our toes felt secure and safe on uneven surfaces and diverse terrain, together with concrete sidewalks, pavement, and sand. Though the footwear are light-weight and versatile, the cushioning felt very responsive. Plus, the shoe’s wonderful shock absorption prevented ache in our joints, together with a beforehand injured knee.
Additionally out there in males’s sizes at Amazon, Kizik, and Nordstrom.
Potential Flaws
- The white coloration will get soiled very simply, so we want these footwear had been machine-washable.
Most Useful Perception
“They’re very simple to stroll in and really comfy. I might stroll longer distances comfortably with out having to cease typically for a break. On the finish of the day my toes weren’t hurting, not like the opposite footwear I’ve worn.” —Dorothea Simpson, Verywell Match product tester
Meet Our Tester
Our tester has flat toes and a historical past of knee ache, so she wants a comfortable, supportive shoe for strolling on varied terrain, together with concrete sidewalks and sandy seashores. She discovered these sneakers tailored effectively to completely different surfaces and allowed her to stroll longer distances with out ache.
:max_bytes(150000):strip_icc()/New-Balance-Womens-Fresh-Foam-X-More-v5-Running-Shoes-d0f849b34317441c8aa3caea524e7317.jpg)
-
Good influence safety
-
Glorious arch assist
-
Very breathable
Key Specs
Weight: 8.6 ounces | Closure: Lace-up | Supplies: Engineered mesh higher, foam midsole, rubber outsole | Cushioning: Most | Care and Washability: Machine-wash, air-dry | Our Total Score: 4.9/5
Who They’re For
Greatest for older adults who stroll or stand for hours at a time and want a sturdy, comfy shoe.
Why We Love Them
For those who spend hours at a time in your toes, you want a strolling shoe with further assist and cushioning—like New Steadiness’s Recent Foam X Extra v5. When testing this shoe, we had been impressed with its strong arch assist and comfy cushioning. The plush midsole supplied nice shock absorption, maintaining our toes and again pain-free whereas standing for hours at work.
Throughout check walks, our arches and ankles felt very secure and well-supported. Plus, the light-weight, breathable mesh higher stored our toes cool and dry throughout walks in sizzling climate. We additionally like that this shoe is available in three completely different widths. so we had been in a position to get a measurement that accommodated a large foot.
Additionally out there in males’s sizes at Amazon, New Steadiness, and Dick’s Sporting Items.
Potential Flaws
- Throughout testing, the slight flare on the entrance of the shoe brought about the 2 footwear to typically catch one another throughout fast actions. Nonetheless, we discovered this pair to be tremendous supportive and comfy for strolling.
Most Useful Perception
“The shock absorption of this shoe is wonderful. I might stand all day the primary day carrying them at work doing surgical procedure.” —Donna Harris-Kober, Verywell Match product tester
Meet Our Tester
Our tester works whereas standing for lengthy intervals and desires a supportive, well-cushioned shoe to keep away from aggravating her again ache and former foot harm. She discovered that this pair’s arch assist and shock absorption stored her comfy at work, in addition to whereas strolling, mountain climbing, and enjoying pickleball.
:max_bytes(150000):strip_icc()/Skechers-Slip-Ins-Go-Walk-7-Springtime-Walking-Shoes-a1a8c91ac9aa4c59b13bc7b0bc6d0755.jpg)
-
Light-weight however sturdy
-
Simple to slide on and off
-
Machine-washable
Key Specs
Weight: Not listed | Closure: Slip-on | Supplies: Knit higher, reminiscence foam midsole, ethylene vinyl acetate outsole | Cushioning: Light-weight and responsive | Care and Washability: Machine-wash, air-dry | Our Total Score: 4.9/5
Who They’re For
Greatest for a walker with sweaty toes, or for somebody who lives in hotter climates or prefers a light-weight, breathable sneaker.
Why We Love Them
With its slip-on design, Skechers’ GO WALK 7 Springtime Shoe is a sensible, comfy possibility for seniors who’ve hassle with effective motor abilities (like tying footwear) or bending down. Throughout testing, we had been impressed with the shoe’s light-weight, breathable higher that stored our toes cool, dry, and comfortable on walks in the summertime warmth. And regardless of the low-profile design, we seen that the sneakers are tremendous sturdy, displaying no indicators of wear and tear and tear after many miles.
The shoe’s cushioning felt very comfy throughout lengthy walks on diverse terrain. Even after being on our toes all day on this pair, we didn’t discover any ache or fatigue. We had been additionally pleasantly shocked they offered dependable ankle assist, even after we had been making turns and fast actions.
Additionally out there in males’s sizes at Amazon, Zappos, and Skechers.
Potential Flaws
- Throughout testing, we seen that the cushioning underneath the balls of our toes was a bit missing. Our toes weren’t uncomfortable, however some further cushioning might need enhanced the general consolation.
Most Useful Perception
“These footwear are comfy for lengthy days of standing and strolling. The mesh on the surface permits my toes to do all forms of motion whereas remaining comfy. The cooling cushioning prevents my toes from getting overheated and swelling.” —Cathy Bixby, Verywell Match product tester
Meet Our Tester
Our tester is on her toes a lot of the day for childcare duties and likewise walks on the treadmill or outdoors on sidewalks and trails. Her toes get sizzling simply, so she preferred this pair’s light-weight really feel and breathability.
:max_bytes(150000):strip_icc()/Vionic-Walk-Max-Sierra-Sneaker-0ee32e5cbcf04e8887ae9a4e78d2cb48.jpg)
-
Ample cushioning
-
Sturdy and secure
-
APMA authorised
Key Specs
Weight: Not listed | Closure: Lace-up | Supplies: Leather-based and mesh higher, foam midsole, rubber outsole | Cushioning: Reasonable | Care and Washability: Hand-wash, air-dry | Our Total Score: 4.4/5
Who They’re For
Greatest for older adults who desire a informal strolling shoe that provides strong arch assist and good stability.
Why We Love Them
Vionic’s Stroll Max Sierra Sneaker is one other good selection for seniors, particularly those that desire a sturdy shoe with wonderful arch assist. Throughout testing, the shoe’s full-length EVA foam midsole supplied good assist, whereas the grippy rubber outsole offered a secure base. With a mesh and leather-based higher, this pair additionally delivers the proper mixture of soppy consolation and elegance.
The shoe’s match felt good, with no rubbing or toe cramping. Plus, the huge width choices make them superb for older adults with earlier points with blisters or bunions. We additionally like that this APMA-approved pair is handled with a water-repellent coating for cover in moist climate.
Potential Flaws
- Though we preferred the shoe’s arch assist, we discovered that our heel was slipping out of the shoe, so we’d advocate a narrow-width possibility if in case you have slim heels.
- Throughout testing, we discovered that the rubber tongue was a bit uncomfortable, because it was digging into our foot.
Most Useful Perception
“These footwear felt secure as I used to be strolling round, sweeping, and vacuuming. My toes felt supported, with no instability or wobbling.” —Peggy Schmitz, Verywell Match product tester
Meet Our Tester
Our tester is an avid health walker and typically wears customized orthotics for a heel challenge. She didn’t use her orthotics on this pair and located that that they had ample arch assist.
Strolling Sneakers for Seniors We Additionally Examined
We examined dozens of strolling footwear however solely included 8 in our closing listing of suggestions. These three sneakers had some noteworthy options however didn’t stack as much as the competitors.
- We preferred that Dr. Consolation’s Grace Strolling Sneakers have two completely different insoles for extra custom-made cushioning and assist. Nonetheless, throughout check walks, the footwear rubbed towards our huge toes and our heels had been slipping out, so this pair wouldn’t meet the wants of older adults who want easy-to-wear, comfy footwear for strolling and every day actions.
- Whereas they supplied good stability, SAS’s Tour Mesh Lace Up Sneakers didn’t present the cushioning and arch assist wanted for seniors with arthritis, as we discovered that the soles grew to become painful after about 40 minutes of wear and tear. Regardless of the benefit of lacing, their lack of shock absorption restricted their general effectiveness for seniors.
- Though OrthoFit’s Walkers Sneakers characteristic a non-slip rubber sole with wonderful traction, they didn’t have enough cushioning or assist for extended strolling or high-impact actions. This can be a main downside for seniors, notably these with circumstances like plantar fasciitis, who need strong cushioning and assist to keep away from joint ache and instability.
What We’ve Up to date
- Since we final revealed this roundup, we’ve examined new shoe fashions and up to date our suggestions primarily based on our new findings.
- In complete, we examined 12 new pairs, eight of which we’ve added to our listing.
- Based mostly on our most up-to-date testing, we reworked our superlatives to replicate essentially the most up-to-date insights.
What to Search for When Purchasing for Strolling Sneakers for Seniors
- Cushioning: Seniors could profit from extra-cushioned assist, as we are inclined to lose the pure fats padding underneath the foot as we age, Roussel says. Search for footwear with a cushioned insole and a delicate, shock-absorbing, contoured midsole that can present consolation and cut back influence. And for those who put on customized orthotic inserts or insoles, select a pair of footwear with further room.
- Stability: The appropriate pair of footwear may help enhance stability for older adults who battle with mobility or stability points. Search for sneakers with a secure, agency heel and a good, supportive outsole. If the shoe’s sole bends simply and is simply too versatile on the underside, it could result in extra points and even harm, says podiatrist Tyler Miranda, DPM.
- Traction: Older adults additionally want footwear with sturdy and slip-resistant soles to assist forestall slips and falls. Search for a pair with rubber soles which have a multidirectional tread sample with good grip and traction.
- Supplies: It’s necessary to search for footwear constituted of sturdy supplies, particularly for the outsole. Rubber outsoles present wonderful traction and assist, whereas mesh and leather-based are nice choices for the higher since they’ll really feel delicate and delicate towards the toes. Search for footwear with breathable and moisture-wicking supplies, which is able to assist forestall uncomfortable sweating, Roussel says.
How We Examined the Strolling Sneakers for Seniors
To develop our listing of the perfect strolling footwear for seniors, we spent over six weeks testing greater than 60 pairs of footwear from 14 high-quality, trusted manufacturers. We accomplished at the very least three walks of assorted distances and problem and likewise wore the footwear for on a regular basis actions. All through testing, we evaluated every shoe for the next standards:
- Match: After unboxing, we tried on every shoe to research the preliminary match: Was there a thumb’s width of house between our longest toe and the top of the shoe? Did the footwear really feel comfortable round our heels and midfoot? Was there room to wiggle our toes? Then, we walked across the room to find out whether or not or not our toes slid round within the shoe. We additionally famous if it felt true to measurement, slim, or huge.
- Cushioning: Throughout our check walks, we assessed every shoe’s stage of cushioning. We recorded whether or not the cushioning felt delicate or agency if it absorbed influence when our toes hit the bottom, and if the extent of cushioning felt even all through the shoe or extra concentrated in a single space (the heel, for instance). We additionally seen how our toes felt after every stroll: Any ache? Discomfort? Fatigue?
- Responsiveness: Subsequent up, we evaluated every shoe’s responsiveness, or how bouncy and springy it’s. We famous how efficient the shoe propelled us to the subsequent stride and whether or not or not it bounced again to assist with speedy transitions. Strolling footwear carried out effectively on this class in the event that they left our legs feeling recent after check walks.
- Consolation: Consolation is likely one of the most necessary issues when choosing strolling footwear for seniors. Throughout check walks, we assessed how comfy every shoe felt by paying particular consideration to the higher: Was the fabric delicate, versatile, and breathable? Was there sufficient room to simply wiggle and splay our toes? We additionally prioritized choices that supplied consolation all through the entire shoe and left our toes recent and blister-free after lengthy walks.
- Blister safety: For this essential class, we thought of match and breathability—two key elements of blister safety. Sneakers that match appropriately didn’t trigger overheating or extra sweating and stored our toes blister-free carried out effectively on this class.
- Worth: To find out a worth rating, we seemed on the worth of every shoe after testing was full. We decided that strolling footwear for seniors that scored excessive on this class had been pretty priced, given the standard of the shoe. And we might think about paying much more for among the footwear that earned an ideal rating for worth.
Our Consultants
To find out the perfect strolling footwear for seniors, we interviewed three consultants and requested for his or her recommendation on which key options older adults most profit from in a strolling shoe. In some circumstances, our consultants additionally really useful particular manufacturers of footwear that work effectively for older adults and suggested us on which manufacturers and forms of footwear seniors ought to keep away from. Learn on for extra details about our consultants:
- Damian Roussel, DPM, a podiatrist at The Facilities for Superior Orthopedics
- Tyler Miranda, DPM, a podiatrist at Superior Podiatry of Manhasset
- Pamela Mehta MD, a board-certified orthopedic surgeon and founding father of Resilience Orthopedics
Continuously Requested Questions
What’s the distinction between a coaching shoe and a strolling shoe?
Strolling footwear are designed with the particular physique mechanics of strolling in thoughts, so that they sometimes provide extra cushioning and assist across the ball and heel of the foot to assist wearers keep correct foot alignment. Alternatively, coaching footwear are additionally often extra versatile and responsive to permit for fast actions. The kind of train tools for seniors you utilize can decide your selection of footwear.
How a lot do strolling footwear for seniors value?
Normally, a superb pair of strolling footwear for older adults prices between $60 and $250. Cheaper pairs will not be as sturdy or provide sufficient assist, particularly for walkers who’re on their toes all day lengthy. Costlier pairs could also be extra trendy and provide specialised assist or cushioning that targets particular areas of the toes, just like the heel.
Why ought to seniors purchase senior-specific strolling footwear?
Seniors have a wide range of particular shoe gear wants, as a result of impact of growing older on their toes and general well being, Miranda says. Carrying strolling footwear with a sturdy, secure base and cushioned assist may help seniors enhance their stability and keep away from falls.
What are the well being advantages of normal strolling for seniors?
Strolling is a wonderful means for older adults to remain energetic and get their really useful every day quantity of bodily exercise to scale back well being dangers. Common brisk strolling may help enhance coronary heart well being for older folks and can also profit folks with hypertension, arthritis, and diabetes.
How lengthy do strolling footwear final earlier than they should be changed?
Generally, strolling footwear will final about 350 to 500 miles earlier than the cushioning and assist put on out, relying on how typically you put on them, your weight, the footwear’ sturdiness, and the surfaces you’re strolling on. Experiencing foot ache could also be an indication that the footwear want changing as they’re not offering the suitable assist any longer, Mehta says.
Why Belief Verywell Match
An authorized private coach, operating coach, gymnasium buff, and health author, Christine Luff spends numerous hours researching and testing the most recent train gear and devices. She solely recommends merchandise that she will be able to genuinely stand behind and that she believes can be a superb funding for her readers. Christine has examined dozens of strolling footwear herself; considered one of her favorites is Hoka’s Clifton 9.