The Best Long-Distance Walking Shoes (and Why They’re Better Than Running Shoes)

If you purchase an independently reviewed product or service through a link on our website, WWD may receive an affiliate commission. Walking might be the most widespread form of exercise, but, like with any fitness activity, your gear matters. Even though you can (and do) walk in all shoes, tackling long-distance jaunts for the purpose of breaking a sweat requires proper footwear. Luckily, there are plenty of impressive, purpose-built walking shoes on the market. Something that might surprise you? The best long-distance walking shoes are different than the running shoes many people lace up before a long stroll.  Running shoes are built for impact absorption at a higher speed and cadence, often being equipped with more responsive (bouncy) midsole foam and a higher heel stack that could actually cause discomfort and instability during long walks. Long-distance walking shoes, by contrast, prioritize cushioning under the heel and flexibility at the forefoot, since walking involves a heel-to-toe roll rather than a midfoot or forefoot strike. They also tend to have a lower heel drop, a more rigid sole for sustained support over hours, and less aggressive tread than running shoe counterparts. We combed through hundreds of offerings in this latter category to find five of the best

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