7 Best Walking Shoes for Seniors/Elderly Men & Women 2024 Review (2024)

Walking is a low-intensity cardio exercise, which is highly recommended for seniors. It is also one of the most ideal hobbies seniors can take up. But in order to make the most of the healing power of walking, it’s important to wear the right kind of shoes.

They are many options available for seniors, especially if they’re struggling with foot and knee pain. And in this article, we’ve reviewed some of the best walking shoes for seniors.

We’ve included the best overall choice for both men and women and highlighted all the best features of each pair. Hopefully, the reviews will help you make the right choice for you.

In this post, we’ve reviewed the Best Walking Shoes for Seniors/Elderly Men & Women . These are:

  • Best Overall Choice for Women: OrthoFeet’s Serene Women’s Shoes
  • Runner-Up Option for Women: Propet Stability Walker Strap
  • Best Value for Women: Hush Puppies Women’s Power Walker
  • Best Women’s Shoe for Maximum Comfort: OrthoFeet’s Verve Tie-Less Lace Shoes
  • Best Overall Choice for Men: OrthoFeet’s Avery Island
  • Runner-Up Option for Men: Saucony Echelon 7
  • Best Value for Men: Skechers Go Walk 4

Table of Contents

Top Picks for Best Walking Shoes for Seniors/Elderly Men & Women

1. Best Overall Choice for Women: OrthoFeet’s Serene Women’s Shoes (Save Up to 20% at Orthofeet.com)

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If you’re fed up with orthopedic shoes that look clunky and have zero style, you’re in luck. Serene Women’s Shoes by OrthoFeet defy the norm set by the orthopedic shoe industry.

But don’t let the elegance of these gorgeous shoes fool you, they’re so much more than that.

In fact, this pair is carefully designed to create the best walking shoes for seniors. More specifically, they’re the absolute best choice for senior women.

They come in two colors as well, black and tan, which makes color coordinating with your clothes amazingly easy.

So, what makes these women’s shoes from OrthoFeet so special? Firstly, they fit really well and offer more room for your foot, especially in the toe box area.

And for a walking shoe, a wide toe box is an important feature, especially if you’re dealing with issues like bunions or hammertoes and other painful toe-related conditions.

The quality of the insoles is another feature to pay attention to. They’re of premium design and offer exceptional arch support. Plus, they’re made from an anti-microbial fabric and foam, so you won’t have to worry about sweaty feet and unpleasant odors.

You have to think of the cushioning if you’re struggling with often incredibly frustrating issues like over-pronation, plantar fasciitis, or any kind of heel pain.

And everything about the Serene Women’s shoes says comfort and control. The ergonomic cushioning sole features Ortho-cushionTM system that will help you with every step you take. The rest of the interior is indeed very soft too.

The lining is seam-free, and there’s absolutely no concern about surprising pressure points that will hurt your skin. The upper part of the shoe is also padded with foam, but it’s also covered in genuine and incredibly soft leather.

You’ll receive extra breathability, and you’ll be able to take long walks even if the weather is warm. If you need a pair of nice-looking, ultra-comfortable shoes that you’re able to wear every day, Serene Women’s shoes are an option you probably won’t go wrong with.

The single Velcro strap makes putting them on so much simpler, especially if you’re having a hard time using your fingers due to conditions like arthritis or neuropathy. In terms of size, you can buy them from size 5 to size 12, and in width ranging from regular to extra wide.

The manufacturer recommends going with one size larger than you’d normally go with, just to ensure your feet have maximum comfort and zero constraints. In a nutshell, OrthoFeet’s Serene Women’s Shoes are of premium build and design.

Plus, they’re more than suitable for women struggling with foot-, knee-, and back-related issues. All you have to do is put them on, wiggle your toes to test the comfort, and head out to run errands or to just take a nice walk.

PROS

  • Exceptional quality
  • Extra-wide toe box
  • Anti-microbial materials
  • Leather exterior
  • Help alleviate foot pain

CONS

  • They might squeak when used

2. Runner-Up Option for Women: Propet Stability Walker Strap

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Walking is one of the best forms of exercise. What’s best is that you’re never too old to reap the benefits. But if you’re wearing shoes that do nothing to alleviate aches and pains in your feet, then it’s a counterproductive effort.

Propet is a company that understands what makes a shoe comfortable and puts all their focus into designing some of the best walking shoes for seniors you can find.

The Stability Walker Strap model is a prime example of a walking shoe that will make you forget the concept of an uncomfortable shoe. If you have diabetes, these are the shoes to try.

The discomfort brought upon by neuropathy can make anyone feel like it’s not worth putting your feet in anything less than comfy slippers. But why should anyone miss out on enjoyable walks just because they’re afraid that certain symptoms will kick in?

Medicare recommends Propet Stability as one of the shoes diabetic patients should wear. This means that medical experts vouch for the quality and results Propet shoes deliver. So, what else is there to know about them?

The full-grain leather exterior has excellent stitching but also offers quite a bit of breathability due to perforations. They also come with not one, but two adjustable straps that also have fasteners. The tongue is padded, which provides additional comfort too.

The interior has a nylon lining and an impressive moisture-wicking effect. The heel gives you plenty of support and extra stability, so you don’t have to worry about missing a step when out walking.

As far as the insole goes, which is an important feature for every walking shoe, it’s removable and features a gel heel pad.

It also has excellent cushioning ridges which means that you can walk around in your Propets all day long without your feet getting too sore.

The midsole is there to provide that important shock absorption effect, and an overall feel of the shoe is that it’s light yet sturdy.

The outsole is made of rubber, which means that these shoes aren’t only durable but also maintain an impressive amount of traction and a firm grip. If you’re worried about ankle support, there’s no need to be.

Your sensitive and fragile ankles will get all the support they need so that using the stairs or even making sudden movements is easier with the Propet Stability Walker shoes.

You can purchase these phenomenal walking shoes in black and white color and choose any size from 6-13. The width ranges from Standards to XX and that’s a lot of versatility. But the most important aspect of this is that Propet makes shoes that are true to size.

PROS

  • Very durable
  • Universal design
  • Medicare-approved
  • Ultra-stabile
  • Great value

CONS

  • A bit bulky

3. Best Value for Women: Hush Puppies Women’s Power Walker

7 Best Walking Shoes for Seniors/Elderly Men & Women 2024 Review (3)7 Best Walking Shoes for Seniors/Elderly Men & Women 2024 Review (4)

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What’s the first thing you think of when someone mentions Hush Puppies? If you’ve ever heard of this brand, and you most certainly have, then you know that they revolutionized the idea of the casual shoe.

Unlike many other types of walking shoes, the Hush Puppies Power Walker conveys both style and performance. But that’s not even the best part. The price tag that comes with this great-looking pair of shoes isn’t going to jeopardize your budget.

So many times, shopping for walking shoes can seem like an endless search. How to find something affordable that won’t force you to make too many compromises at the same time?

If you’re retired and have to be wary of your finances, one of the best walking shoes for seniors is these Hush Puppies.

Yes, they’re affordable, and that’s fantastic, but what else can you expect from buying them? Firstly, you get a 100% leather exterior and a well-made rubber sole. The heel height is about 1”, which is just enough for people who require average arch-support.

The platform is around 1 ½” which is around average for most walking shoes. These Hush Puppies deliver the Drilex sock lining technology that will ensure your feet never get too hot.

This makes them suitable for any climate, and you don’t have to worry if you need to bring an extra pair of socks with you wherever you go.

The footbed is removable which makes for easier maintenance, and it’s also very comfortable and offers plenty of stability on your walks.

But the outsole is where the Hush Puppies Women’s Power Walker shoes really shine. They feature Bounce technology and offer premium double density that provides a release for amazing energy every time you take a step.

The shock absorption properties are exceptional, and if you’re planning a hike on bumpy terrain, these are the shoes to go with.

Also, this model from Hush Puppies comes with laces for people who aren’t a fan of Velcro straps. It’s also available in four different colors and sizes, ranging from 5-12.

PROS

  • Affordable
  • Trusted brand
  • Quality leather
  • Excellent outsole

CONS

  • Some might not like the laces

4. Best Women’s Shoe for Maximum Comfort: OrthoFeet’s Verve Tie-Less Lace Shoes (Save Up to 20% at Orthofeet.com)

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Deciding that it’s time to walk a little bit more can be one of the best decisions a person can ever make. Walking is incredibly good for your health, both mental and physical.

But walking longer distances in one go or staying on your feet throughout a day can be very uncomfortable sometimes. And that’s usually due to the wrong choice of walking shoes.

Many people are so used to the type of shoes they usually wear, that they don’t think about how much better and more comfortable they could be.

OrthoFeet is a company that has mastered the art of creating premium walking shoes for men and women. They also produce some of the best walking shoes for seniors, and the Verve Tie-less lace model is a prime example.

They come in two beautiful colors, turquoise and fuchsia and they’re everything you need in terms of comfort and support as far as walking shoes go.

So, here are the main features of the Verve Tie-less lace shoes by OrthoFeet. If you’re the type of person who prefers walking shoes with laces, but you’re struggling to tie them at the moment, Verve shoes deliver a fantastic solution.

A tie-less lacing system is an innovative approach for people with arthritis and for those who simply aren’t too keen on doing their laces all the time. The laces and the strap work in combination on both sides of the shoe.

And it’s not just that, you also have the heel strap, which is a pretty amazing feature that adjusts the grip really well to deliver that customized fit. The insoles are orthotic and of premium quality.

They provide exceptional cushioning and deliver just the right amount of relief if you’re suffering from plantar fasciitis or other types of heel pain.

The soles are fully ergonomic, and the interior is just soft enough and very protective. Like most of OrthoFeet’s shoes, the Verve Tie-less lace model has a wide-toe that many women with bunions and hammertoes will appreciate a lot.

These shoes offer a true fit and range in sizes from 5-12. Width-wise, you can choose medium, wide, or extra wide options.

If your main concern is being and staying comfortable while walking, but you also wouldn’t mind a little bit of style, the Verve is a phenomenal pair of shoes that will satisfy even the pickiest of shoppers.

PROS

  • Innovative Tie-less lace system
  • Extremely comfortable
  • Very stable
  • Wide toe box

CONS

  • Insufficient ankle support

5. Best Overall Choice for Men: OrthoFeet’s Avery Island (Save Up to 20% at Orthofeet.com)

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Trying to pick out the best walking shoes for seniors can often turn into a more complicated task than you expected.

And when dealing with seniors who are also men, finding the right shoe that provides sufficient support, comfort, and a little bit of style can be extra challenging.

Still, there are many great orthopedic shoes on the market that try to combine all of these three features in one perfect pair. One of the best choices for men is Avery Island shoes by OrthoFeet.

This pair is created by the company that designs shoes to heal and alleviate foot-related pain. When you’re trying to improve your health, walking seems like the perfect first step.

And there’s a definite connection between wearing the right shoes and working on your stability, as well as mobility. At first glance, the Avery Island Men’s Shoe seems like your average Oxford Shoes.

But behind the classic exterior suitable for every occasion hides the premium comfort and quality. The leather exterior is really well-made, and you can choose between black and brown colors, depending on which fits better with your wardrobe.

The rubber sole provides a sense of stability and sturdiness and features patented Cushioning Ergonomic Stride technology.

Your feet and ankles will undoubtedly feel stable, but you also get great protective lining and extra foam padding for additional ankle support and comfort. The fit is completely nonbinding and provides so much room for your toes.

That feeling of your toes being squashed together can be really frustrating, especially when you’re trying to enjoy a walk. For that reason, the extra room in the toe box will mean so much to any men with bunions or hammertoes.

The Avery Island shoes by OrthoFeet are also an amazing choice for men with diabetes, arthritis, neuropathy, or plantar fasciitis. And that’s because the anatomical insoles are one of the best on the market for orthopedic shoes.

It’s all about arch-support, and these insoles provide just that. Along with hard-to-compare cushioning, the insole is anti-microbial and has extra layers of foam.

The breathable leather exterior and the insole quality will ensure that your feet stay dry, as well as comfortable.

Worrying about sweaty feet can just add more worries to your day. The Avery Island shoes for men are an excellent choice if you’re trying to improve your foot and leg alignment. They’re also good for people who struggle with overpronation, knee pain, and lower-back pain.

The company offers a 60-day wear test, which is a really great deal. After two months of wearing Avery Island shoes, you’ll be able to assess whether they’re right for you. Also, they come with laces instead of Velcro straps, which makes them look more elegant.

This could be an issue for some people, especially if you want something more convenient. Still, the design is meant to be business casual, as well as an ordinary, everyday look.

PROS

  • Classic Oxford shoe design
  • Premium quality
  • 60-day trial period
  • Excellent ankle support

CONS

  • No option for Velcro strap

6. Runner-Up Option for Men: Saucony Echelon 7

7 Best Walking Shoes for Seniors/Elderly Men & Women 2024 Review (7)7 Best Walking Shoes for Seniors/Elderly Men & Women 2024 Review (8)

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Walking is the best, an activity everyone should do more of. But when you’re already quite active, even if you’re a senior citizen, walking can quickly transition into running.

Or even weekly visits to the gym for some strength training. If that’s the case, not just any walking shoes will do. It’s important to find the best walking shoes for seniors that can also be used for running or any other type of physical activity.

That’s where the Saucony Echelon 7 comes in. The brand and model name alone makes you think of superior exercise shoe technology. And indeed, Saucony is a trusted brand in the industry, with products for all types of runners.

With this inclusivity in mind, they have created the Echelon 7, a neutral walking/running shoe that’s perfect for people with wide feet and low arches. In this respect, they’re meant to spare you pain in your heel when you’re on a light jog or a power walking session.

This is a very tough shoe that was built to last and is a great option for people who want to invest in their health. They’re great for the pavement and not just the treadmill too. In terms of breathability, there’s nothing to worry about.

They’re made from a super lightweight material that provides sufficient airflow. Unfortunately, they’re only available with laces rather than a more convenient strap. But in return, they offer more than enough support and stability.

The tongue and collar are extremely plush and won’t damage even the most sensitive of skin. But what about flexibility? How does it feel when you wear them on a long walk or run? Great! The Tri Flex outsole offers so much flexibility once your foot hits the ground.

These shoes will be there for you every step of the way. They’ll even perform well on wet roads and hiking trails. The shock absorption property is admirable due to the fusing of TPU beds into the bouncy foam.

It means you get a super-smooth and cushiony jog or walk, which is exactly what people over the age of 65 need from a shoe. In terms of design, you get the standard running shoe look. They’re not trying to be flashy nor focus too much on the exterior.

They’re all about performance. Having said that, you do get slight variations to the dark grey color and can choose between green or blue details.

In many ways, these are close to being the best option for walking shoes for men, especially those who practice a more active lifestyle, but are still struggling with foot, knee, or back pain.

PROS

  • Great for more active seniors
  • Ultra-plush
  • Light-weight
  • Breathable
  • Excellent arch support

CONS

  • Might be too bouncy for some

7. Best Value for Men: Skechers Go Walk 4

7 Best Walking Shoes for Seniors/Elderly Men & Women 2024 Review (9)7 Best Walking Shoes for Seniors/Elderly Men & Women 2024 Review (10)

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Have you ever wondered what walking on clouds would feel like? Well, wearing a super light-weight and extremely breathable shoes is about as close to that description as anybody is going to get.

Coincidentally, that’s the sensation delivered by the Skechers Go Walk 4 men’s shoes.

Do you need a pair of the best walking shoes for seniors that are somehow also super stylish? Go Walk 4 is an excellent model from Skechers that will fit with almost anything in your wardrobe. Are you wearing jeans? They complement them perfectly.

What about shorts or cargo pants? Check. And since they’re 100% mesh, you can even pack them with very little effort and take them with you anywhere you go. But portability and light-weight features are often the reasons why some walking shoes are expensive.

That’s not the case at all with the Skechers Go Walk 4. In fact, they’re quite budget-friendly, which will make choosing them even easier decision. And this is the perfect example of a company not compromising quality for the sake of lower prices.

The innovative 5GEN midsole design delivers an impressively comfortable walking experience. Plus, it also provides more than enough cushioning and the right amount of arch support.

But what about durability? The Skechers Go Walk 4 might not seem like they’re made to last, but that’s not true at all: Even after a few months of continuous use, they hold up really well.

Another perk of wearing Skechers Go Walk 4 walking shoes is that you can wear them without socks.

They’re very gentle on your skin and won’t cause any irritations. This feature makes them an excellent choice for people who live in more humid or hot environments.

Since they’re not classic orthopedic shoes, it’s easy to worry about the width and toe box comfort levels. But Skechers offers them in wide options as well, so they’re sure to fit almost anyone.

Additionally, they go up to the size 16, which isn’t standard with most classic orthopedic shoes.

PROS

  • Great for travel
  • Modern design
  • Unprecedented light-weight
  • 100% mesh
  • Affordable

CONS

  • Not enough protection

Final Thoughts on the Best Walking Shoes for Seniors/Elderly Men & Women

Are you shopping for a loved one who’s also a senior? Or are you a senior citizen who wants a pair of walking shoes for yourself? Either way, we’ve hopefully given you plenty of options to choose from. We’ve presented our winners in the men and women’s category, and also revealed our best value options too.

Any pair reviewed above will fit anyone’s description of the best walking shoes for seniors. And the criteria will vary depending on many factors. What kind of issues do you have with your feet? Is it just about prevention or is it about getting rid of pain?

Walking is an activity that never fails to make you feel better. And there’s no telling how far you can go with the right shoes and one foot in front of the other.

7 Best Walking Shoes for Seniors/Elderly Men & Women 2024 Review (11)
7 Best Walking Shoes for Seniors/Elderly Men & Women 2024 Review (2024)

FAQs

Are Hokas for older people? ›

I recommend the Hoka Bondi for patients that need max cushioning, such as older patients that have fat pad atrophy (where the fat on the bottom of your foot thins) or arthritis,” says Dr. Parthasarathy.

Which brand shoes are most comfortable for walking? ›

7 Best Shoes For Walking On Concrete in 2024
  • Best overall. Hoka Transport.
  • Best comfort. Nike Motiva.
  • Best for all-day wear. Hoka Clifton LS.
  • Best rocker. KEEN WK400.
  • Best arch support. Brooks Adrenaline GTS 23.
  • Best cushioning. Brooks Ghost 15.
  • Best slip-resistant. Hoka Bondi SR.
Mar 19, 2024

Which New Balance is best for older people? ›

One of our favorite New Balance Shoes, the Men's 990v5 stands out for its excellent stability and traction—helping older adults stay surefooted and confident while walking. During testing, we were blown away by how steady we felt on all types of terrains.

Which footwear is the safest for elderly? ›

Skechers Go Walk

It is one of the safest shoes for seniors, as it doesn't have laces or velcro straps that need to be fastened. They instead opt for a well-designed slip-on design. Skechers Go Walk series will comfort your loved one's feet inside and outside their home.

What do podiatrists think of Hoka shoes? ›

Are Hoka shoes good for your feet? They're not just great for workouts. Dr. Jacqueline Sutera, a New York City-based podiatrist says that they provide comfort, support and shock absorption, which makes them a good choice for frequent walkers or anyone whose job requires them to stand for the majority of the day.

Which is better Hoka Clifton or Bondi? ›

In summary, if you prioritize functionality, a streamlined design, and a shoe that's great for various running styles and durations, the Hoka Clifton may be your top pick. However, if you lean towards cushioned comfort and need a shoe that excels on longer, more leisurely runs, the Hoka Bondi is an excellent choice.

How do I find the best shoes for walking? ›

Stability: You want good lateral support: a shoe that you can't bend or twist easily in your hands. Cushioning: Having a uniform level of cushioning, rather than a huge heel cushion, is more comfortable for many walkers. Fit: Getting shoes that fit you well is the most important factor of all.

Are Skechers good or bad for your feet? ›

As a consequence, Skechers can cause ligament and muscle stresses and strains. The memory foam could take on the 'memory' of a poor gait style causing destabilising foot, ankle, knee, hip and lower back pain.

What kind of shoes should elderly wear? ›

Opt for shoes with a wider toe box, good arch support, non-slip soles, velcro closures, low or no heels, lightweight design, and the right fit. By following these tips, you can help ensure your elderly loved one's feet stay healthy and comfortable, allowing them to enjoy their retirement community to the fullest.

Do podiatrists recommend New Balance? ›

One of the primary reasons podiatrists recommend New Balance shoes is their exceptional arch support. Proper arch support is vital for maintaining the natural alignment of the foot and preventing issues like overpronation (inward rolling of the foot) or supination (outward rolling of the foot).

Are Hoka shoes good for walking? ›

According to Mendeszoon, Hokas are an excellent choice for everyday walking shoes in terms of comfort and foot health. However, the long-term durability can vary depending on specific models and the way you use them.

Are Skechers good for older people? ›

What is a good walking shoe for seniors? Skechers has some great walking shoes for seniors. Their Skechers Go Walk line is very comfortable and safe since it doesn't have laces or velcro straps. You can also check this page for more walking shoes for seniors.

Should seniors go barefoot in the house? ›

Moreover, a recent study found that barefoot walking around the house contributed to increased falls among the elderly. Wearing shoes at home is the best way you can protect your feet.

Should seniors wear barefoot shoes? ›

Cudejko et al., 2020 showed that the use of a barefoot style shoe increased postural stability during gait. These findings only showed slightly better results compared to individuals who were wearing traditional shoes.

Who wears Hoka? ›

Jennifer Garner, Gisele Bündchen and Cameron Diaz— to name just a few — all own pairs of the ubiquitous athletic shoes, which have been trending both in and out of the gym as of late.

Why are Hokas suddenly so popular? ›

HOKA kicks are beloved for their comfort thanks to lightweight foam soles which is especially helpful for runners thanks to the cushioning that helps slow the velocity of the foot as it hits the ground.

Why do people love Hoka so much? ›

Benefits of Hoka Shoes

Every pair has a curved "meta-rocker" in its sole, designed to propel you forward comfortably. This unique, first-of-its-kind design makes it feel like you're walking (or running) on literal air, one of many reasons why both avid and novice fitness enthusiasts have gravitated toward the shoe.

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