Best walking shoes for men 2024: footwear from casual strolls to adventurous treks

The best walking shoes for men combine comfort, durability, and performance for every step

Best walking shoes for men 2024: Quick links

Columbia Escape Thrive Endure

(Image credit: Matt Kollat/T3)

00. Top 3↴
01. Best overall: Timberland Greenstride Motion 6 Hiker
02. Best arch support: Keen WK400
03. Best for fast hikes: Danner Trail 2650 Mesh GTX
04. Best budget: Berghaus Revolute Active
05. Most comfortable: Lowa Innox Pro GTX Lo
06. Most secure fit: Columbia Facet 75 Outdry
07. Best for technical trails: Adidas Terrex Swift R3 GTX
08. Best for plantar fasciitis: Hoka Anacapa Low
09. Best for scrambling: Scarpa Mescalito
10. Best lightweight: Arc'teryx Aerios FL Mid GTX
11. How to choose
12. How we test
13. FAQ

Ah, the quest for the best walking shoes for men – a journey filled with trials, tribulations, and, if you're not careful, a few blisters along the way. But fear not, fellow adventurers, for we have embarked on this odyssey to bring you the ultimate guide to men's walking shoes!

Let us paint a picture: you're strolling through the countryside, the sun gently kissing your face, the birds serenading you with their melodious tunes, and beneath your feet? The best walking shoes money can buy. We're talking about footwear that strikes the perfect balance between protection and comfort, durability and style.

Before you lace up and hit the trails, let's discuss choosing the right pair of walking shoes, especially if you're new to the game. First, consider the type of terrain you'll be tackling. From leisurely dog walks to rugged mountain trails, there's a shoe for every adventure.

Next, consider fit and comfort – you want a shoe that feels like a second skin, not a medieval torture device. And don't forget about durability and waterproofing – nobody likes soggy socks halfway through a hike!

We have a separate guide to the best women's walking shoes. Add the best walking trousers, the best walking socks and a good waterproof jacket for a comfy and versatile outdoor outfit.

So, whether you're a seasoned hiker or a novice explorer, join us as we traverse the world of men's walking shoes, one step at a time. Let the journey begin!

The Top 3

Best walking shoes for men to buy right now

Why you can trust T3 Our expert reviewers spend hours testing and comparing products and services so you can choose the best for you. Find out more about how we test.

Best overall

Timberland Greenstride Motion 6 Hiker reviewT3 Awards 2023 Logo

(Image credit: Matt Kollat/T3)
Best walking shoes for men overall

Specifications

Upper: premium leather and durable ReBOTL fabric
Midsole : EVA blend GreenStride sole foam
Waterproofing: "special treatment" to resist spills, stains, etc.
Outsole: Rubber outsole

Reasons to buy

+
Sole is made of 75% bio-based materials
+
At least 50% of leather used comes from certified tanneries
+
Stylish design
+
Treated upper offers some protection against spills and stains
+
Ideal for urban adventures and light hiking

Reasons to avoid

-
Hardcore hikers might find it too stylish to be taken seriously
-
Admittedly, the shoes have a 'style over substance' approach

The more we looked into Timberland and their Greenstride Motion 6 Hiker for our review (linked below), the more we understood and appreciated the shoes. It's comfortable, made sustainably and even looks great – what's not to like? We're sure the style of the shoes will put some walkers off, but that's okay. Plenty of traditional-looking walking shoes are available from outdoor brands in this guide.

The Timberland Greenstride Motion 6 Hiker isn't crazy expensive, and we hope the price will drop soon enough. We enjoyed wearing the Timberland Greenstride Motion 6 Hiker for our off-road adventures during testing and will continue using them wherever possible. If you need a comfortable, good-looking walking shoe, consider the Motion 6 Hiker from Timberland.

Read our full Timberland Greenstride Motion 6 Hiker review.

Best arch support

Keen WK400 walking shoes

(Image credit: Jamie Carter)
Best walking shoes for men for arch support

Specifications

Upper: Performance mesh with TPU overlays
Midsole : High-rebound EVA
Waterproofing: N/A
Outsole: Higher-traction rubber

Reasons to buy

+
Encourages forward momentum
+
Arch support
+
Comfortable for long periods
+
Lightweight

Reasons to avoid

-
Water resistant only
-
Bulky
-
Offset lacing not for everyone

At the heart of these Keen WK400 walking shoes is the KEEN:CURVE technology, which gives the shoe a structure and shape to provide the wearer with the feeling of forward momentum. It's a combination of a curved plate to create a rolling movement and a high-energy midsole that cushions any rebound and gently propels the wearer forward.

What is immediately noticeable when you start wearing these shoes is the excellent arch support, which is an inevitable consequence of such a beefy midsole. The forward motion created by the KEEN:CURVE tech works best on flat ground where there's a feeling of one step rolling into another. The upper part of the shoe is constructed with an ultra-lightweight mesh, which is breathable, but also water-resistant (note – not waterproof).

Read our full Keen WK400 review.

Best for fast hiking

Danner Trail 2650 Mesh GTX review

(Image credit: Matt Jones)

3. Danner Trail 2650 Mesh GTX

Best men's walking shoes for fast hiking

Specifications

Upper: Textile mesh
Midsole: EVA with TPU shank
Waterproofing: Gore-Tex
Outsole: Vibram 460 Megagrip

Reasons to buy

+
Lightweight and breathable upper
+
Superb traction
+
Stylish and streamlined design

Reasons to avoid

-
Offers only a moderate amount of protection and support
-
Better for marked trails than serious mud

Featuring a waterproof Gore-Tex liner and lightweight mesh and textile uppers, the Danner Trail 2650 Mesh GTX provides protection and breathability for long days on the trail. The Vibram Megagrip outsole with 4mm lugs offers reliable traction, while the EVA midsole and plastic shank provide cushioning and support on uneven terrain.

The shoe's design is inspired by dedicated trail running shoes. It has an 8mm drop and a slightly wider forefoot for stability and comfort. Despite its lightweight construction, the Trail 2650 Mesh GTX delivers excellent underfoot cushioning and support, making it suitable for long hikes in various conditions.

While Gore-Tex-lined shoes can feel hot and sweaty in warmer weather, the Trail 2650 Mesh GTX strikes a good balance between waterproofing and breathability, making them suitable for use in wetter climates like the UK. The mesh upper helps keep the feet cool while providing maximum weight savings.

Overall, the Danner Trail 2650 Mesh GTX offers a great balance of lightweight design, comfort, and performance, making them a solid choice for spring through autumn use in diverse terrain. Whether you prefer non-waterproof or waterproof models, leather or mesh uppers, low-cut shoes, or mid-cut boots, the Trail 2650 family has something for everyone.

Read our full Danner Trail 2650 Mesh GTX review.

Best budget

Berghaus Revolute Active Shoe

(Image credit: Pat Kinsella)

4. Berghaus Revolute Active Shoe

Best budget walking shoes for men

Specifications

Upper: synthetic
Waterproofing: breathable, bio-based AQ lining
Midsole: Ortholite footbed
Outsole: Vibram Eco-Step

Reasons to buy

+
Good build quality
+
Reliably waterproof and breathable
+
Excellent outsole with great grip 

Reasons to avoid

-
Very basic lace system
-
Not protective or supportive enough for technical trails
-
Limited colour options

The Berghaus Revolute Active Shoe epitomises practicality and performance with its no-nonsense design and robust construction. Tailored for countryside walking and hiking adventures, it offers comfort, grip, and foot support suitable for moderate outings in various weather conditions.

These budget walking shoes have undergone rigorous testing, enduring day-long hikes and family walks in challenging conditions. Tested in the wet and muddy terrain of South Devon during the transition from winter to spring, the shoe proved its mettle in adverse conditions, keeping the wearer's feet dry and comfortable.

Despite the slippery and boggy trails, the Vibram Eco-Step outsole provided excellent traction and control, ensuring stability on varied surfaces. The shoe's durability and comfort were further validated as it effortlessly tackled steep hills and extended periods of wear without causing discomfort or hot spots.

Its Vibram Eco-Step outsole delivered reliable traction on slippery terrain, enhancing control during descents. While not suitable for technical alpine trails or winter treks with heavy backpacks, it excels within its comfort zone, providing a reliable, waterproof option for casual walks and moderate hikes.

Read our full Berghaus Revolute Active Shoe review.

Most comfortable

Lowa Innox Pro GTX Lo men's walking shoeT3 Approved badge

(Image credit: Lowa / Future)
Most comfortable walking shoes for men

Specifications

Upper: synthetic
Waterproofing: Gore-Tex
Midsole: Dyna-PU midsole foam
Outsole: Lowa Multi Trac

Reasons to buy

+
Lightweight  build
+
Cushioned and comfy
+
Vegan-friendly

Reasons to avoid

-
Grip is limited

If comfort is your priority, check out the Lowa Innox Pro GTX Lo walking shoe. These vegan-friendly, synthetic shoes are buttery soft and lightweight and offer plenty of cushioned comfort to prevent fatigue during long days on your feet. Gore-Tex provides reliable waterproofing to keep your toes dry in wet weather.

The soles use Lowa's own 'Multi Trac' technology, and while it's great on established terrain, it doesn't provide enough grip for really gnarly mountain terrain. If you're planning on spending a lot of time on groomed trails from spring through to autumn, these would be an excellent pick. (We've tested out the women's version of this shoe.)

Read our full Lowa Innox Pro GTX Lo review.

Most secure fit

Columbia Facet 75 Outdry

(Image credit: Pat Kinsella)

6. Columbia Facet 75 Outdry Waterproof Hiking Shoes

Most secure fit men's walking shoes

Specifications

Upper: Durable mesh with Navic Fit system
Midsole: Techlite Plush
Waterproofing: Outdry
Outsole: Adapt Trax

Reasons to buy

+
Reliably waterproof 
+
Excellent foot support
+
Very secure fit
+
Perfect for fastpacking

Reasons to avoid

-
No recycled materials used
-
Runs warm on hot days

The Columbia Facet 75 Outdry Waterproof Hiking Shoe offers a versatile option for outdoor enthusiasts seeking performance and protection without the weight of traditional hiking boots. Available in low, mid, and Alpha versions, these shoes feature a synthetic mesh upper reinforced with TPU overlays for durability.

The Navic Fit System ensures a secure fit, while the Outdry waterproof membrane keeps feet dry in various conditions. A Techlite Plush midsole provides cushioning, and an Adapt Trax outsole with 5mm lugs offers reliable traction on a range of surfaces.

Tested during multiday adventures in the French Alps and across Dartmoor and Exmoor in the UK, these shoes excelled in various terrains. The low-cut version proved versatile for shallow stream crossings and year-round use, while the Alpha version offered additional ankle protection and warmth in extreme conditions. Despite collecting mud in wetter conditions, these shoes provided excellent foot support, breathability, and waterproofing.

Overall, the Columbia Facet 75 Outdry Waterproof Hiking Shoe is a versatile option suitable for day hikes, low alpine treks, backpacking, and fastpacking adventures, offering reliable performance and comfort across different outdoor scenarios. However, potential buyers may need to consider sizing down for a better fit, especially if not wearing thick hiking socks.

Read our full Columbia Facet 75 Outdry Waterproof Hiking Shoes review.

Best for technical trails

Adidas Terrex Swift R3 Gore-Tex Hiking ShoeT3 Approved badge

(Image credit: Mark Mayne)
Best walking shoes for technical trails

Specifications

Upper: not stated
Midsole: No information available
Waterproofing: Gore-Tex
Outsole: Continental Rubber

Reasons to buy

+
Robust for the light weight
+
Supportive deep heel cup
+
Great build quality

Reasons to avoid

-
GTX version not super breathable

A summer 2021 update to the classic Adidas Terrex Swift R2, the Adidas Terrex Swift R3 Gore-Tex Hiking Shoe comes absolutely packed with tech and is surprisingly robust and secure feeling for the relatively lightweight (just 395g). There's a near-solid 'promoderator' midfoot to add stiffness to the sole – in fact, you might even feel a little heel lift initially – along with a rock protection plate in the forefoot.

This stiffer sole provides a great platform for use on sloping terrain, and a cushioned midsole keeps things comfortable. A deep heel cup offers extra ankle support, and the Continental rubber outsole with 4.5mm lugs delivers excellent grip on all but the slipperiest surfaces. You can choose between Gore-Tex and standard versions – the former being (of course) waterproof, while the latter is more breathable.

Read our full Adidas Terrex Swift R3 Gore-Tex review.

Best for plantar fasciitis

Hoka One One Anacapa Low Gore-Tex Hiking ShoeT3 Approved badge

(Image credit: Mark Mayne)
Best walking shoes for plantar fasciitis

Specifications

Upper: leather, recycled polyester
Midsole: No infomration available
Waterproofing: Gore-Tex
Outsole: Vibram Megagrip rubber

Reasons to buy

+
Luxuriously plush, bouncy sole
+
City-friendly styling
+
Comfy out of the box

Reasons to avoid

-
Heel unit not built for precision

The styling might be unorthodox, but behind the Hoka One One Anacapa Low's big, bouncy exterior lies an actually very competent walking shoe. Where they particularly shine is on the comfort front: the deep sole unit, coupled with a flexible, lightweight nubuck and recycled polyester upper, makes this super-plush and deadly comfy straight out of the box.

While the aggressive tread pattern provides plenty of grip, note that the Vibram Megagrip doesn't extend across the whole sole, leaving the soft EVA midsole exposed under the foot arch – which could be potentially problematic in the long run if you're tackling abrasive surfaces on the regular.

Read our full Hoka One One Anacapa Low Gore-Tex review.

Best for scrambling

Scarpa Mescalito shoesT3 Approved badge

(Image credit: Matt Ray)
Best walking shoes for men for scrambling

Specifications

Upper: suede
Midsole: Vibram Dynamis
Waterproof: water-resistant 1.8 mm
Outsole: Vibram Dynamis LBT

Reasons to buy

+
Stiff in the right places
+
Super-sticky sole
+
Suede upper moulds to your feet

Reasons to avoid

-
No deep lugs for mud

For tricky trails that involve technical scrambling or even bits of rock climbing, it might be better to don a pair of approach shoes, and our favourites are the Scarpa Mescalito. The Vibram MegaGrip sole delivers outstanding grip, and there's an extra rubber section over the toes to ramp up grip and protection further. Vibram Dynamis technology keeps weight down (around 780g per pair), while a bi-density midsole adds cushioning, making these comfortable over longer distances – not true of all approach shoes.

The breathable suede upper moulds to the foot over time (it's water-resistant rather than waterproof, but there is a heavier Gore-Tex version of these in the range). Note that it's not easy to get clean if you do end up encountering a particularly muddy match. If you’re staying on the flat, then you'll want to pick a less stiff shoe from our list, but if it's approach shoes you're after, this is our pick of the bunch.

Read our full Scarpa Mescalito review.

Best lightweight

Close up of Arc'Teryx Aerios FL Mid GTX boots worn by a person on rocky groundT3 Approved badge

(Image credit: Future)
Best lightweight walking shoes for men

Specifications

Upper: mesh upper with TPU overlay
Midsole: Compressed EVA midsole
Waterproofing: Gore-Tex
Outsole: Vibram Megagrip

Reasons to buy

+
Lightweight and streamlined
+
Very flexible
+
Snug fit

Reasons to avoid

-
Waterproofing can be unreliable
-
Some may prefer a stiffer sole

The Arc'teryx Aerios FL Mid GTX are slightly higher cut than your average walking shoe, with a heel cuff that provides a little more protection and support around your ankles but dips to almost shoe height at the back (if you don't want the higher cut, the Arc'teryx Aerios FL GTX shoe is the same design but without the heel cuff). As you'd expect from Arc'teryx, these are minimalist, stylish and streamlined.

The sole is ultra-flexible, and the sticky Vibram Megagrip outsole delivers when it comes to grip, making these a great choice for situations where you want complete freedom of movement (for long hikes, we'd probably recommend something sturdier and more rigid, although in that case, you should really be opting for a boot in any case). They're great for warm weather excursions thanks to the breathable canvas upper and lightweight build.

Read our full Arc'teryx Aerios FL Mid GTX review.

How to choose the best men's walking shoes for you

So what do you need to consider when figuring out which pair for buy? The key is to pick a comfortable fit, as well as considering the terrain you'll be covering. The best men's walking shoes offer a reinforced sole (usually TPU) to fend off stones underfoot, a robust rand to protect the sides, and an aggressive, grippy sole. 

Many walking shoes will have a waterproof membrane built in, which can be useful in wet grass, for example, but can also limit breathability if you’re really gunning it, so if you're thinking of picking up a pair of these, it's worth considering how you’ll mainly be using your shoes. 

Unlike boots, rain resistance in walking shoes is a bit of a red herring, as without the closed calf of the boot your feet will be soaked in heavy rain, waterproofing or not. 

Others have made their lightness and flexibility around the ankle more of a benefit by incorporating sticky rubber and protective high rands to deliver a hybrid approach/scrambling shoe that can cope with pretty much anything in the hills. 

More aggressive tread patterns are ideal for muddy conditions, but handle rocky smearing poorly, while stickier rubber will wear out faster and can be slippy in muddy conditions.

Although spec is important, getting the right size is absolutely essential. It's a good idea to try on a few pairs to get a good idea of any potential issues. Also, keep in mind that if you are planning high-energy walking pursuits, you might want to size up as you would for running shoes, because your feet will swell over longer stretches.

How we test the best men's walking shoes

To put together this ranking of the best men's walking shoes, we call the shoes in (or hand them over to outdoors gear experts) and take them out to put them through their paces. We'll try them out on a range of different kinds of terrain and weather conditions, to get a good overview of how they hold up in various circumstances, and review them based on things like comfort, grip, waterproofing, weight, and support. To get a rounded view, we'll also look at reviews from other customers, and see if there are any downsides we've missed. We'll also use our knowledge of the wider market to gauge how these weigh up against the competition. 

Sometimes, we'll have tried the women's version instead of the men's, but in these cases it'll be clear in the product blurb. Very occasionally, we might not have been able to get hold of a product, but feel it's worthy of inclusion. In those situations, we research what other customers and reviewers have said, and combine that with what we know about the specs and brand to put together an informed blurb for you to base your decision off. Find out more about how we test at T3 here.

FAQ

Do I need a pair of dedicated walking shoes?

The reasons for getting a good pair of shoes for walking are many and varied. The best options will improve performance by making your hiking easier and more comfortable. Plus, once you're done you'll be able to pop your muddy shoes in the boot and drive off in a fresh pair. 

Proper walking shoes are ideal for lighter hikes, short approaches and summer rambles, as well as faster and lighter mountain expeditions. Although you'd be best off with the extra support of boots for the really rough stuff, some of our best men's walking shoes do offer a ‘mid’ style, providing some support akin to a boot but with more ankle movement. 

Unsure which type of footwear is right for you? Take a look at our walking boots vs walking shoes guide to discover the key differences.

There's also a whole sub-category of walking shoes dubbed ‘approach shoes’, which build in more scrambling and rock climbing orientated traits, like sticky rubber and extended lacing to grip the entire foot tightly.

Is it OK to buy running shoes for walking?

Yes, it's generally okay to buy running shoes for walking, especially if you find them comfortable and supportive for your walking needs.

Many running shoes offer cushioning, stability, and flexibility, which are beneficial features for walking as well. However, running shoes are specifically designed for the forward motion of running, so they may have features like extra cushioning in the heel or a more curved sole that may not be as essential for walking.

If you have specific walking-related foot issues or preferences, such as extra arch support or a wider toe box, you may want to look for walking shoes that cater to those needs. Ultimately, the most important factor is finding a shoe that feels comfortable and supportive for your walking activities.

What type of footwear is best for walking?

The best type of footwear for walking depends on various factors, including your walking style, the terrain you'll be walking on, and any specific foot conditions you may have.

Generally speaking, walking shoes or walking sneakers are often recommended for casual walking on even surfaces like sidewalks or paved paths. These shoes provide adequate support and cushioning for the feet, promoting comfort and reducing the risk of injury during prolonged walks.

For more rugged terrain or longer walks, hiking shoes or trail shoes may be a better option. These shoes typically offer additional stability, support, and traction, making them suitable for uneven or rocky surfaces commonly encountered on trails or hiking paths.

It's essential to try on different styles and brands to find the right fit and comfort level for your feet. If you have any existing foot conditions or concerns, consulting with a podiatrist or footwear specialist can also be beneficial in selecting the most suitable walking footwear.

Matt Kollat
Section Editor | Active

Matt Kollat is a journalist and content creator who works for T3.com and its magazine counterpart as an Active Editor. His areas of expertise include wearables, drones, fitness equipment, nutrition and outdoor gear. He joined T3 in 2019. His byline appears in several publications, including Techradar and Fit&Well, and more. Matt also collaborated with other content creators (e.g. Garage Gym Reviews) and judged many awards, such as the European Specialist Sports Nutrition Alliance's ESSNawards. When he isn't working out, running or cycling, you'll find him roaming the countryside and trying out new podcasting and content creation equipment.

With contributions from