I was heading out on my routine walk around Brooklyn the other weekend, complete with a stop at my local coffee shop. As I slipped on my tried-and-true Nike Vapormax, I realized just how reliable these walking sneakers have been. Come to think of it. the Swoosh has been with me through milestone after milestone—from my first pair of trainers for middle school P.E. class to reigning supreme in my closet as my go-to choice for everyday errands.
The thing with Nike is that you don’t need a specific event or even be a professional tennis player (or other type of athlete) to sport the brand’s shoes. Nike beautifully designs for anyone, especially people like me who are just looking for a dependable walking shoe. Personally, I need something cushioned and engineered for support, yet versatile enough to fit into my capsule wardrobe. And with my busy schedule, I need a sneaker that can go wherever my city walks take me.
I’ve walked miles, consulted my sneakerhead friends, and asked the team at Nike to weigh in on the brand’s latest walking shoe, which I'll touch on later. Read on for the ultimate lineup that will support your strides, no matter where you’re going.
Pros
- Innovative engineering
- Extra spring
- Molded foot Cage
- Unique design
- Air pods for enhanced durability
Cons
I present to you, my own personal pick for the best Nike walking shoes. Our relationship just hit our two-year anniversary, and it couldn’t be going smoother. I opted for an all-black to (literally) elevate my walking, jogging, hiking, and even tennis outfits.
Sizes: 5-12
Colors: 6 options
Materials: Synthetic Uppers, Rubber Outsole
Customer review: “I love these shoes they are so comfortable and all of my people say these are a nice design and good choice in color .. WILL BUY AGAIN”
Pros
- Comfortgroove innovation
- Super high cushioning
- Nike recommended
- Highly rated
Cons
- Fit small (order a 1/2 size up!)
I tapped the Nike team to hear about its latest innovation. The Nike scientists and designers conducted a survey with over 1,000 participants who gave their perspectives on running, jogging, and walking. The result: the Motiva.
Nike breaks down the shoe as “the new rocker geometry, last and full-length cushioning provide a plush and smooth ride for varied activities and fluctuating paces.”
Colors: 11 options
Sizes: 5-12
Materials: Soft Foam
Review: "I’m a nurse that walks 10000+ steps on concrete floors every shift and these shoes absorb every one of those steps! .....Nike always fit my feet perfectly, so when I saw the Motivas, I pounced. I have been so happy with these shoes. Lightweight, durable and that sole works overtime! No tired, sore feet for me after 12hrs of walking, sometimes running!"
Pros
- Versatile
Cons
- Delicate materials
I’m drooling over these suede sneakers for fall. Think Loewe Flow Runners, but more accessible. Add these to your fall shopping list, along with a trench, a button-down shirt, and the perfect pair of denim.
Sizes: 4-11
Colors: Black
Materials: Mesh, Suede, Rubber
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Pros
- Nike Air units
- Reflective detailing
Cons
- Simple colorways
These shoes make me want to join one of those walking clubs—a.k.a. the new dating scene. So, you can thank these shoes (and me) for getting you a new partner.
Sizes: 5-11
Colors: Platinum Violet, Light Bone, Metallic Silver, Chrome
Materials: Mesh and Textile Upper with Rubber Sole
Customer review: “I absolutely love this sneaker, it’s sporty and beautiful and I love the design and colors”
Pros
- Chunky heel
- Dual-density foam midsole
Cons
- Not as versatile
Still can’t get enough of metallic sneakers? Neither can anyone else, apparently. These are always a conversation starter for me at the gym. If you’re looking for a more athletic shoe, look no further.
Sizes: US 5-12
Colors: 13 options
Materials: Mesh, Foam, Translucent Plastic, Rubber
Customer review: “These are the most comfortable shoes Ever!!! I literally walk faster, much faster when I’m wearing these. I Love them!”
Pros
- Springy soles
Cons
I’ve been eyeing these for a while now...so 2000s of me. Although I usually gravitate towards true neutrals, these sneakers satisfy my craving for color with that little pop of red.
Sizes: US 5-11.5
Colors: White/Red, Mint, Grey/White
Materials: Mesh, Rubber, Leather
Customer review: “Great design, very comfortable, highly recommended”
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Pros
- Cushioned footbed
Cons
A reiteration of the 2006 Pegasus shoe, these laced-up runners are equipped with a 30-millimeter footbed, creating a practical everyday sneaker, thankfully stealing the show from your Air Force 1s.
Sizes: US 5-11.5 (Men’s Sizing)
Colors: Cream/Green
Materials: Rubber, Lace
Pros
- Shox R4 technology
Cons
While doing some in-person “research” (read: window shopping at Kith), I came across these Shox. Trendy, I know, but they have that model-off-duty/Addison Rae look.
Sizes: US 5-11.5
Colors: White, Black
Materials: Rubber, Mesh, Leather
Customer review: “Awesome shoe for supporting long walking or standing time!”
Pros
- Cushioned midsoles
- Light materials
Cons
Sleek, sporty, supportive—the list goes on. The Vomero is ready to accompany you on your matcha runs or even your office outfits with the help of a blazer. Not to mention, these Nikes are known for their lightweight and breathable build.
Sizes: US 7-11 (Men’s Sizing)
Colors: Silver, Beige
Materials: Leather, suede and rubber, off-white mesh
Customer review: “Nike did well with this sneaker. Great for a wide foot, very comfortable. True to size. You will not be disappointed.”
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Payton Pampinto
Payton Pampinto is a contributor at townandcountrymag.com and ELLE.com.