These Are the Best New Balance Shoes for Walking in Comfort and Style (2024)

Not only is this style from New Balance recommended by all of the podiatrists we tapped, it has received the APMA Seal of Acceptance, granted to products found to promote foot health by a group of podiatrists. This shoe provides performance and stability without compromising cushioning and comfort during gait cycle—the cyclic pattern of movement that occurs while walking, says Elizabeth Daughtry, D.P.M., F.A.C.F.A.S., board-certified foot surgeon and podiatrist at WakeMed Hospital. The FuelCell foam also delivers a propulsive feel to help drive you forward during your stroll, she adds.

What the reviews say: “Very comfortable and has great support, especially working in healthcare and on my feet 12 hours a day.”

This pick is a stylish and practical shoe ideal for low-impact activities or general everyday wear, according to the brand. As opposed to mesh, the upper material is made of leather and provides a snug, comfortable fit. Plus, the foam midsole is excellent cushioning and comfort with walking, says Dr. Sharkey.

What the reviews say: “I love this shoe so much, I just ordered a second pair as a backup!! I have arthritis and neuropathy in both feet and ankles and these shoes have given me some relief.”

Ideal for both running and walking, this style has also received the APMA Seal of Acceptance. It provides a foam midsole to provide the most cushioned Fresh Foam experience for incredible comfort yet built for smooth transition from landing to push-off, says Dr. Daughtry. She continues: “The rubber outsole is durable and the second-skin style mesh upper breathable but supportive.”

What the reviews say: “The most comfortable running shoes in my 26 years of running!”

This running style pair is a cushioned shoe for neutral foot types, says Priya Parthasarathy D.P.M., a podiatrist and a spokesperson for the American Podiatric Medical Association (APMA). This neutral cushioning is also ideal for anyone who experiences heel pain as the wide heel provides some serious balance and stability. The brand says this shoe is crafted for daily miles, all day wear, everyday. Plus, it comes in several vibrant color ways to add your own spin on your stroll.

What the reviews say: “Excellent comfort and support for the price paid. Would recommend for everyday use if you do a lot of walking or running.”

If you’re looking for the peak of comfort in your walking kicks, this style is their most cushioned shoe and ideal if you need extra cushioning and have a neutral foot type, says Dr. Parthasarathy. The foam is stacked higher than ever before, and distributed across the length of the shoe, offering a plush, yet stable underfoot experience, per the brand. “It also has a rocker bottom which promotes a smooth transition and ride,” Dr. Parthasarathy notes.

What the reviews say: “Most comfortable shoe I have ever worn!! So much cushion. I have a chronic ankle condition and these have been a huge help.”

This shoe is made in the USA and is a classic new balance shoe that has been around for years, says Dr. Parthasarathy, and “what is cool about these shoes is that they’re timeless.” It also comes in so many different widths and is great for a flat foot/pronator foot type, she adds. Note: the brand warns that this model runs large, so you may want to consider ordering down from your normal size.

What the reviews say: “The ultimate walking shoes!! I have owned many pairs of 990’s over the years and they never disappoint.”

This pair is more lifestyle kicks meets walking shoes that are stylish, says Dr. Parthasarathy. Still, although reviewers love the comfortable but fashionable style, Dr. Parthasarathy advises that she would wear these “for mild to moderate walking only.” So if you are looking for comfortable mileage for longer walks, this may not be the style for you. But for running errands or going out on the town, perfect!

What the reviews say: “I really liked these shoes. It’s super comfortable and apparently durable. Worth the money!”

This shoe features a 11mm drop, which can be helpful for those with a history of plantar fasciitis or achilles tendonitis, says Dr. Sharkey. And for extra stability, the rubber outsole provides a good amount of traction, she adds. Plus, this style may be eligible for Medicare reimbursem*nt, according to the brand.

What the reviews say: “I find these shoes amazing!! comfortable for walking long distances and they wear very well.”

These fashionable kicks feature motion control and ROLLBAR stability technologies and ABZORB cushioning for comfort from morning till midnight, according to the brand. These shoes also have a removable foam footbed to provide added durability and comfort, ideal for orthotics as well. Plus, you can choose your own adventure: traditional laces or velcro straps.

What the reviews say: I have been wearing 928's for more than 15 years. They are perfect for my custom orthotics.

Per our podiatrist experts, here’s what you should look for when shopping for walking shoes:

• Durable outsole for traction for slick/wet/varied surfaces
• Cushioning to aid in shock absorptionWell-fitting (roomy toe box and snug fit at the heel to avoid slippage)
• Stability at the mid foot and flexibility at the toes to allow for natural movement to occur
• Removable insole
• Firm and supportive heel counterIncreased arch support on the inside (medial side) of the shoe
• Rigid shank (you should not be able to fold your walking shoe completely in half)

Dr. Parthasarathy also notes that it’s important to know your foot type—pronated, neutral or supinated—so you are buying the correct shoe for you. “A visit with your Podiatrist will narrow down your choices,” she advises. If you have flatter feet, you are likely a pronator, she continues, but it is difficult to distinguish between a supinator or neutral on your own.

You should also make sure your orthotics fit in the shoes, if you have them, says Silas Espino D.P.M., podiatrist at Strash Foot & Ankle. “You should only have a thumb width between your toes and the end of the shoes,” he advises.

New Balance has routinely created walking shoes that are comfortable, offer the perfect blend of stability and comfort, says Dr. Sharkey.

The Fresh Foam cushioned midsole is important for shock absorption during the gait cycle, says Dr. Daughtry. “New Balance shoes are designed for comfort and walking while offering adequate arch support for many people. They are lightweight and provide comfort while keeping your foot in a neutral position.” Plus, many New Balance shoes offer a durable outsole with trail inspired lugs for better traction, Dr. Daughtry adds.

Yes, New Balance shoes are excellent shoes for everyday use and for high mileage runners, says Dr. Espino. Typically, New Balance shoes are a good choice for many people as they offer a neutral position but still offer great support, says Dr. Daughtry. “Many New Balance shoes are orthotic friendly and tend to offer a variety of widths and sizes to allow for all foot shapes and sizes.” In general, they provide comfort while maintaining an overall lightness and support, she adds.

Dr. Parthasarathy also recommends New Balance shoes for kids, “because of the generous toe box and width.” She also notes that many of their styles are approved by the American Podiatric Medical Association (AMPA).