Podiatrists Swear By These Comfy Walking Shoes That Are So Damn Cheap On Amazon
Happy feet — every day.
When you’re shopping online for walking shoes, it can be difficult to know what features deserve your attention. Fret not — podiatrists swear by these comfy walking shoes that are so damn cheap on Amazon. (I know, because I asked.) This round-up includes designs ranging from sporty and sleek to modern and chunky — along with fan favorites that share elements highlighted by the podiatrists featured here, like orthotic footbeds with arch support, wide toe boxes, and grippy outsoles. Scroll on for happy feet.
Podiatrist-Approved Walking Shoes
Comfy walking shoes that won’t stress your bank account, backed by podiatrist recommendations.
A Pair Of Walking Shoes That Rival A Cult-Fave Brand
Podiatric surgeon and the founder of Dr. Canuso Skincare for Feet, Dana Canuso, DPM recommends these athletic shoes as an alternative to a cult-favorite brand. "The shape and build of these remind me of a HOKA dupe,” she says. The thick EVA midsole is designed with an anti-torsion plate to prevent twisting, while the grippy outsole contributes further stability. You can have them on and off in a snap, too — the elastic no-tie laces are the definition of effortless.
- Available sizes: 6 — 11
- Available colors: 7
These Shock-Absorbing Walking Shoes
Dr. Canuso also recommends this pair of walking shoes, packed with podiatrist-approved features. A thick, high-rebound midsole helps absorb shock, providing cushioned support. The breathable mesh upper allows for proper ventilation, while a flexible TPU film amplifies the shoe’s supportive benefits — and they come in a variety of chic colors.
- Available sizes: 6 — 11
- Available colors: 7
These Air-Cushioned Walking Sneakers
Dr. Canuso spots features common to another cult-favorite brand in this pair of walking shoes as well, noting that they’re a "Possible NIKE Dupe." The air-cushioned sole provides shock absorption while the grippy outsole helps prevent slipping, with a breathable knit upper to mold to the shape of your foot.
- Available sizes: 5.5 — 11
- Available colors: 13
These Stylish Sneakers With Tons Of Supportive Features
If you’ve got a day of running errands, reach for these Dr. Scholl’s sneakers recommended by Bryanna Vesely, DPM, MPH, a podiatrist at Orthopaedic and Spine Center. "This is a cute, comfortable pair of slip on walking shoes,” she says. “They have foam insoles with built-in arches that allow you to have support while you walk. [...] I also love that they stretch and have a wide toe box for our women with wider feet.” Crafted from microfiber, they feature gored panels for easy-on, easy-off, and they’re cute, too. “They come in over 25 different colors and are very trendy," says Vesely.
- Available sizes: 5 — 13 (including select wide sizes)
- Available colors: 28
These Color-Blocked Loafers With A Wide Toe Box
"These Dolce Vita loafers are very fashionable […] without hurting your feet” Vesely says of these loafers. Crafted from faux leather and accented by gold-toned horsebit detail, Vesely loves the different colorways like the color-blocked version shown here, and praises their comfortable design. “The toe box is wide and deep to reduce the amount of pressure on your forefoot” she says. “It comes with a small arch support but you can also put your own pair of orthotics in the shoe if you need additional support."
- Available sizes: 5 — 11
- Available colors: 7
A Pair Of Surpisingly Supportive Ballet Flats
Vesely suggests sourcing Vionic for shoes that are both stylish and supportive, specifically calling out their ballet flats. "Vionic makes a supportive ballet flat that is trendy [...]” says Vesely. The design is a must-have, but Vesely appreciates that they’re more than merely cute. “While they look like fashion shoes, they have an orthotic insole that provides more support than a traditional ballet flat.”
- Available sizes: 5 — 12 (including select wide sizes)
- Available colors: 16
A Pair Of Cushioned Flip-Flops For Walking Long Distances
If you’re a flip-flop lover who need arch support, Vesely has the answer: “Oncai makes a pair of recovery flip-flops that give more support than a typical flip-flop,” she says, praising the hard-to-find thick heel. “They have a cloud footbed with a built in orthotic that can be helpful for patients who are walking long distances but desire a flip-flop over a closed-toe shoe. These also come in multiple colors and look fashionable."
- Available sizes: 6 — 12
- Available colors: 5
These Breathable Clogs That Come In Chic Colorways
Vesely loves these closed-toe mules as much for the chic colorways on offer as for their practical features, which include an adjustable Velcro upper crafted from perforated faux leather, and a stable rubber wedge sole. “These are backless but still supportive,” she says. “Having a backless shoe can be great for people with a posterior heel spur to prevent painful rubbing. They have a soft insole and have strong grip which provides stability to your gait."
- Available sizes: 5 — 11
- Available colors: 7
A Pair Of Walking Sandals You Can Dress Up Or Down
"These are very trendy yet comfortable walking sandals” says Vesely of these shoes. “They have adjustable straps that support your shoe to ensure they don’t slide off!” Crafted from vegan leather, Vesely praises the way these sandals support the foot and add wardrobe versatility. “They have an orthotic footbed with thick, memory foam cushion for additional shock absorbent properties,” she says. “You can easily dress these up or down depending on the occasion!"
- Available sizes: 6 — 11
- Available colors: 6
These Fan-Favorite Walking Shoes
A podiatrist at Progressive Foot Care, Bruce Pinker, DPM, recommends shoes with, "proper traction or grip on the outsole to prevent slippage." These fan-favorite walking shoes, which come backed by over 11,000 five-star reviews, have an eight-piece rubber sole for superior traction. Crafted from breathable mesh, they hide ample cushioning to absorb shock. And you can have them on in a snap, thanks to no-tie elastic laces.
- Available sizes: 5 — 12 (including select wide sizes)
- Available colors: 37
These APMA-Approved Saucony Walking Shoes With Rugged Leather Uppers
Dr. Pinker also recommends looking for shoes with "durable uppers." These Saucony walking shoes boast a seal of approval from The American Podiatric Medical Association — and are crafted from high-quality full-grain leather. The design also includes a cushioned midsole and a grippy, stabilizing outsole; elastic no-tie laces offer a secure fit.
- Available sizes: 5 — 13 (including select wide sizes)
- Available colors: 4
A Pair Of Walking Shoes In Hygienic Mesh
Featuring a stretchy knit upper, these shoes slip right on, no tying required — and they’re ultra-hygienic, too. Dr. Pinker notes that shoes with "mesh over the toe box to allow for an exchange of air” that “helps reduce the incidence of toenail fungus, plantar warts, and Athlete's foot fungus." With a comfy memory foam insole and slip-resistant outsole, these will stay at the front of your closet. Plus, shoppers report they’re machine washable.
- Available sizes: 5 — 13 (including select wide sizes)
- Available colors: 33
These Doctor-Designed Walking Sneakers
Dr. Pinker also calls out a "cushioned midsole for shock absorption" as something to look for in walking shoes. Orthopedically designed by doctors to achieve the comfiest fit possible, these shoes feature a deep heel cup and cushioning at the ball of the foot, along with arch support and a toothy anti-slip outsole.
- Available sizes: 6 — 12
- Available colors: 21
A Pair Of Skechers That’s Worth The Investment
With podiatrist-certified arch support, these Skechers sneakers take comfort seriously — and Dr. Pinker notes that "a supportive insole" is another wearable detail to look for. A removable insole molds to your foot, absorbing shock, while the mesh upper keeps feet ventilated. With so many functional features, these sneakers are more than worth the investment.
- Available sizes: 5 — 12 (including select wide sizes)
- Available colors: 13
A Pair Of Faux Leather Sneakers With Stain-Resistant Soles
Dr. Pinker also calls out "a firm heel counter" as a notable feature to look for, which these Dr. Scholl’s sneakers hide beneath a stylish exterior. Crafted from sleek, water-resistant faux leather with anatomically-designed insoles, these sneakers will become an essential can easily be dressed up or down. They’re also stain-resistant so they’ll look fresh, wear after wear.
- Available sizes: 5 — 13
- Available colors: 20
These Sporty Shoes With A Customizable Fit
For Lori Grant, DPM, a podiatrist at Orlando Health, a proper fit is essential in a walking shoe: "From the moment you try them on they should be comfortable,” she says. “If they feel too tight, too lose or too short then [you] need to move on." Compatible with orthotics, these lace-up shoes feature removable footbeds, and come in extended widths for a customized fit right out of the box. With a near-perfect rating on Amazon, it’s clear they’re shopper approved, too.
- Available sizes: 5 — 12 (including narrow, wide, and extra-wide sizes)
- Available colors: 45
A Breathable Pair Of Shoes With A Roomy Toe Box
This breathable pair of running shoes has a roomy toe box; for Dr. Grant, that’s an essential feature. “It is important the toe box is not too tight” she says. “You should be able to wiggle your toes in your shoe to avoid possible blisters, corns, calluses and pain." Designed with a shock-absorbing EVA midsole and a grippy rubber outsole, these shoes deliver the comfy goods.
- Available sizes: 5.5 Wide — 11 Wide
- Available colors: 14
A Pair Of Lightweight Sneakers For Long-Distance Walks
If you can walk for hours, Dr. Grant suggests looking for a lightweight sneaker, which “is helpful to prevent fatigue when walking longer distances.” Designed with a ventilated mesh upper that slips right on, these shoes feature a memory foam insole and a flexible, grippy outsole — and, depending on their size, weigh just 150 to 223 grams. Not only are they supportive and flexible, they’re also surprisingly inexpensive.
- Available sizes: 6 — 11
- Available colors: 23
More Comfy Walking Shoes Reviewers Love
Reviewer-adored walking shoes, designed with podiatrist-approved features.
A Washable Pair Of Walking Shoes With Glowing Reviews
Designed with podiatrist-approved features like a breathable mesh upper and a supportive cushioned insole, these loafer-like walking shoes are poised to become a favorite. They slip right on, with a traction outsole for on-the-go stability. And they’re machine-washable, so you can keep them looking like new. With more than 91,000 ratings, these are a clear shopper favorite.
- Available sizes: 5 — 13 (including select wide and narrow sizes)
- Available colors: 26
These Sock-Style Sneakers With 100,000 Ratings
With a sock-style knit upper, these walking shoes look so high end — you’d never guess they’re secretly affordable. The boxed toe leaves room for you to wiggle your toes, while a perforated arch provides ventilation. An air-cushioned midsole and traction outsole deliver the utmost in stability and support. It’s easy to see why more than 50,000 fans have given them a perfect five-star rating.
- Available sizes: 5.5 — 11
- Available colors: 23
These Sturdy Shoes Packed With Podiatrist-Approved Details
Thanks to an extra-wide toe box and high-instep design, these are the sort of shoes a podiatrist would recommend; they have lots of room for toe movement and are crafted from durable leather and breathable mesh, for a secure, ventilated fit. The rigid outsole helps prevent unsafe twisting and rotating — and offers plenty of traction, too.
- Available sizes: 6 — 12 (including select wide and extra-wide sizes)
- Available colors: 5
A Pair Of Slip-On Sneakers That Sculpt To Your Foot
Naturalizer designed this slip-on sneaker with a flat heel and non-slip outsole for added stability when walking; they also feature a comfy cushioned insole. The textured leather upper promises to be durable — another important feature for podiatrists — not to mention chic as hell.
- Available sizes: 4.5 — 12 (including select narrow, wide, and extra-wide sizes)
- Available colors: 8
These Zero-Drop Walking Shoes That Feel Like Going Barefoot
The next best thing to going barefoot, these shoes feature podiatrist-approved details — like an extra wide toe box and an upper crafted of breathable knit mesh — to keep your foot ventilated and cool even in sweaty conditions. A non-elevated (aka zero drop) sole is designed to mimic that barefoot sensation: A shoe for the walking purist.
- Available sizes: 6 Wide — 11.5 Wide
- Available colors: 11
A Popular Pair Of Skechers With Near-Perfect Ratings
After more than 35,000 ratings, these Skechers have maintained a 4.4-star average overall — and they brim with details a podiatrist would love. A memory foam insole and air-cushioned midsole support the foot while a textured outsole provides traction, and the durable, perforated upper keeps the foot ventilated; these shoes earn an A+.
- Available sizes: 5 — 11 (including select wide sizes)
- Available colors: 33
These Adorable Mary Jane Walking Shoes
Not only are these walking shoes crafted from breathable mesh — a detail that Dr. Pinker noted can help prevent foot infections — they’re designed to look like a sporty Mary Jane. An adjustable hook-and-loop strap allows you to control the fit, while the nonslip outsole adds stability.
- Available sizes: 4.5 — 10.5
- Available colors: 5
A Pair Of Slip-On Boat Shoes With Removable Arch Support
Arch support was called out as important by more than one featured podiatrist on this list; these slip-on shoes feature a removable arch support insole with a deep heel cup, for a customizable, shock-absorbing fit. The lightweight canvas upper is giving summer-in-the Hamptons energy — and they’re affordable, too.
- Available sizes: 6 — 9.5
- Available colors: 7
A Pair Of Mesh Running Shoes That Won’t Crowd Your Toes
Crafted from lightweight mesh, these shoes help keep toes cool and dry — and the wide toe box won’t crowd your little piggies. Other podiatrist-approved features include a slip-resistant outsole and high-rebound EVA midsoles to help alleviate any walking-related discomfort.
- Available sizes: 6 Wide — 12 Wide
- Available colors: 11
These Chunky Sneakers Designed With Cooling Memory Foam
These chunky white Skechers would be so cute paired with oversized sweats — and the shock-absorbing midsole would likely win high marks from podiatrists. It’s crafted from cooling memory foam to help keep feet comfy even on long walks in warm weather, with a durable leather and synthetic upper and an extra-grippy rubber outsole for stability.
- Available sizes: 5 — 10
- Available colors: 3
These Scandi-Chic Sneakers You Can Wear With Or Without Socks
Swedish brand Tretorn designed these sneakers to be worn with or without socks; the moisture-wicking insole helps keep feet cool and dry. Extra cushioning at the heel offers shock-absorbing benefits — and the color-blocked design is chic enough to be paired with office ensembles: An essential for any commuter’s wardrobe.
- Available sizes: 6 — 11
- Available colors: 5
A Pair Of Walking Shoes That Feel Like A Hug
With an upper crafted from stretchy mesh that molds to your foot and a padded heel tab, these walking shoes will feel like a hug — and the perforated design offers podiatrist-approved ventilation. Featuring a grippy outsole for stability, the pull-on design can have you out walking in a snap.
- Available sizes: 6 — 9.5
- Available colors: 10
These Impact-Reducing Walking Shoes
To reduce impact, these shoes feature a memory foam insole; the design is comfy enough to handle even very long walks. Lightweight and breathable, the stretchy knit upper helps keep feet ventilated and the shoe securely in place. And, speaking of security, the grippy outsole can help reduce the risk of slipping.
- Available sizes: 5 — 13 (including select wide sizes)
- Available colors: 21
A Walking Shoe With Ballet Flat Style
Ballet flats are where it’s at — and these walking shoes take on the trend with some podiatrist-friendly add-ons. They’ve got a high-rebound insole for shock absorption with a mesh upper for ventilation, and the grippy outsole helps prevent slipping. All with chic, of-the-moment ballerina-inspired style.
- Available sizes: 5 — 11
- Available colors: 2
A Pair Of Walking Shoes Packed With Supportive Features
These walking shoes really understood they assignment — designed with a breathable mesh upper, shock-absorbing air cushion, and removable arch support insoles, they’re packed with features a podiatrist would love. You’ll wear these for more than just walking; the anti-skid outsole is perfect for the tennis court.
- Available sizes: 5.5 — 11
- Available colors: 19
These Shoes With A Moisture-Wicking Liner
Thanks to a moisture-wicking liner, these shoes can be worn with or without socks — either way, the breathable knit will keep your feet ventilated and cool. The slip-on design conforms to your foot shape with stretchy, adjustable laces, helping you achieve a customized fit.
- Available sizes: 6 — 10
- Available colors: 15
A Pair Of Flats Comfy Enough For Long Walks
The slip-on silhouette of these shoes is reminiscent of on-trend ballet flats, but the breathable mesh design is comfy enough to go on long walks, with a grippy sole for traction. The mesh keeps feet ventilated and cool, with a wide toe box and low arch support insoles — so toes have room to wiggle, and feet feel cushioned.
- Available sizes: 6 — 11 (including select wide sizes)
- Available colors: 10
These Boat Shoes With Over 47,000 5-Star Ratings
With over 47,000 five-star ratings, these boat shoes catch your attention — and they’ve got features that would appeal to podiatrists, like a removable memory foam insole for customizable support. A grippy outsole keeps slipping at bay, while adjustable elastic laces keep the slip-on design securely fitted to your foot.
- Available sizes: 4 — 12
- Available colors: 35
A Pair Of adidas That Feel Like Walking On A Cloud
Designed with a plush cushioned midsole, these adidas sneakers will feel like you’re walking on a cloud with a stretchy knit upper offering supportive, ventilated comfort. Elastic laces help hug the shoe to your foot, and a textured outsole helps prevent slipping — all details of which a podiatrist would no doubt approve. With over 17,000 five-star ratings, they’re an easy yes.
- Available sizes: 5 — 11
- Available colors: 16
A Pair Of Ballet Flats So Comfy You Can Wear Them All Day
Consider adding these ballet flats to your work wardrobe. Crafted from faux leather, they feature a cushioned insole for a comfy fit even if you spend all day on your feet. Designed with a three-quarter-inch heel and a non-slip outsole, they’ll help keep you stable even if you happen to be running for the train.
- Available sizes: 5 — 13 (including select wide sizes)
- Available colors: 19
These Fan-Favorite Sneakers With Futuristic-Looking Soles
Futuristic-looking soles definitely add to the coolness factor of these shoes — and they’re grippy enough satisfy podiatrist stability requirements. The breathable mesh upper pulls right on, molding to the shape of your foot; adjustable elastic laces add even more customizable comfort.
- Available sizes: 5 — 10.5
- Available colors: 29
A Pair of High-Top Walking Shoes From An Iconic Brand
A sporty take on an iconic Converse design, these sneakers feature a similar high-top laced canvas upper updated with a molded platform sole and Ortholite cushioning. The look is stylish enough for pairing with your daily wardrobe, but comfortable enough for long walks.
- Available sizes: 6 — 11
- Available colors: 17
These Walking Shoes With A Podiatrist-Designed Orthotic Insole
You can’t go wrong with these walking shoes; featuring a podiatrist-designed removable orthotic insole, they’re virtually guaranteed to give you the comfiest walk ever. A dual-layered mesh upper contributes breathable comfort, while a durable rubber outsole prevents slipping. What’s that sound? Podiatrists, cheering.
- Available sizes: 6 — 12 (including select wide sizes)
- Available colors: 8
Some Classic White Leather Sneakers With A Molded Footbed
No wardrobe should be without a pair of classic white sneakers, and this pair of Naturalizers brims with comfy details. From a non-slip outsole for stability to a rounded toe box and a cushioned footbed, these leather shoes satisfy the requirements of both comfort and style.
- Available sizes: 7 — 12 (including select narrow, wide, and extra-wide sizes)
- Available colors: 20
These Slip-On Sneakers With Extra Arch Support
Extra arch support makes these sneakers a win for any podiatrist — and they feature a breathable knit upper for a comfy, ventilated fit. Gored panels help the design slip on with ease, while a nonslip sole contributes to the secure fit. Don’t fret if they get dirty; the design is machine-washable.
- Available sizes: 5 — 12 (including select wide sizes)
- Available colors: 12
A Pair Of Cushioned Sneakers That Has Shoppers Obsessed
Shoppers are obsessed with these Skechers sneakers; they feature over 43,000 five-star ratings. The slip-on design is crafted from ventilated mesh, with a cushioned memory foam insole and a shock-absorbing midsole — all details podiatrists have called out as positives in walking shoes.
- Available colors: 12
- Available sizes: 5 — 12 (including select wide sizes)
A Pair Of Clogs That Can Pair With Your Orthotics
With an open back, these walking shoes slip on and off as easily as clogs — and they’re designed with features that could please any podiatrist. The cushioned insoles have arch support for wear-all-day comfort, and they’re removable so you can use custom orthotics.
- Available sizes: 5 — 12 (including select narrow, wide, and extra-wide sizes)
- Available colors: 32
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