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Updated July 29, 2024: This guide on the best Nike walking shoes was updated with new sneaker models, Editor’s Choice recommendations, and more information on the difference between Nike running and walking shoes.
Comfortable shoes are an essential for every sneaker rotation, no matter your foot type, the distance you walk, or the terrain you trek. Nike’s walking shoes are widely trusted and beloved for their sleek designs, soft feel, and innovative technology that’s specially designed to support your feet throughout the day.
A longtime footwear authority at the forefront of sneaker innovation, Nike is constantly updating best-selling walking shoes for men and women with increased support and reimagined cushioning systems. Upgraded sneakers like the Nike Pegasus 41 shoes incorporate Zoom Air units that stabilize for soft landings, while ZoomX foam — the Swoosh’s softest cushioning — in Nike Invincible 3 and Vomero 17 shoes bring a bouncy boost to your natural stride. Unique Flyknit uppers, available in several of Nike’s top walking shoes like the React Phantom Run Flyknit 2 and renowned Vaporfly 3 super shoe, support flexibility and allow for super smooth transitions, especially when teamed with buoyant React Foam that absorbs shock and propels every next step.
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It’s important to keep in mind your foot type and environment when you’re shopping for the best Nike walking shoes. Mark Mendeszoon, a podiatrist and owner of Achilles Running Shop in Pennsylvania, recommends a running shoe for walking, especially for those with any foot problems such as plantar fasciitis. “Traditional walking shoes are made with leather or a leather-like material,” Mendeszoon explains. “Sometimes, those materials don’t breathe well, and that can cause sweat and moisture to build up. This can lead to blisters and bacterial growth.” Nike running shoes, on the other hand, are made with breathable and moisture-wicking materials, and made to expand without stretching out. This not only makes them more comfortable, but prevents a constricted feel that can result in built-up sweat.
An everyday shoe to wear for errands will perform differently than a treadmill shoe, and walking shoes designed for concrete pavement will provide different traction than a pair of running shoes for rugged trail terrain. Luckily, Nike offers all of the above, with an abundance of versatile walking shoe options.
Before you place an order for a new pair of the best Nike walking shoes, be sure to pay attention to key sneaker features in order to ensure you’re investing in the right model for your needs. Variations in a shoe’s cushioning, outsole, arch support, and fit will be game-changing in terms of proper foot alignment, comfort, and injury prevention. You’ll also want to consider your foot type as you browse Nike’s walking shoes, as there are options to shop for flat feet, walking shoes for high arches, and more.
Nike is known for its style-forward silhouettes that pair well with casual and athletic ensembles. Some Nike walking shoes such as the Wildhorse 8 shoes or the Motiva shoes feature bold, grippy outsoles that stack tall, playing into the celebrity-loved Gorpore or chunky sneaker trend that fuses optimal function and high fashion. Others are minimalistic in design, so you can team with anything in your workout wardrobe.
We curated the top Nike walking shoes based on expert insight, wear testing, and comprehensive market research. Keep reading to shop your next go-to walking sneaker below.
Editor’s Choice: Top 3 Nike Walking Shoes of 2024
Nike’s selection of exceptional walking shoes vary from the range of silhouettes, support levels, and performance features, and can also serve double duty as cushioned running shoes or lifestyle shoes. Because there dozens of options to choose from, Footwear News Shop editors highlighted our top three Nike walking shoes that satisfy different needs and preferences, whether you’re looking for smoother transitions and joint support, a supportive sneaker that also earns you style points, or incredible energy return with each step. Below, our top three Nike walking shoes that are worth taking for a spin:
- Nike Motiva Shoes: As the only Nike shoe model specifically designed for walking, the Motiva shines for its rocker soles, stretchy uppers, and ultra-stacked cushioning, according to our editor testing. They’re stylish and supportive, while featuring a roomy toe box that makes them one of the best Nike walking shoes for wide feet.
- Nike Cortez Shoes: Although these sneakers one of Nike’s top-trending lifestyle shoes, the Cortez is actually one of Nike’s most iconic heritage running shoe models of all time. Between their cushy wedge midsoles, firm and stabilizing uppers, herringbone traction outsoles, and wide toe box, they make for a comfortable, supportive, and fashionable Nike walking shoe that’ll carry you from the treadmill to city concrete.
- Nike Vaporfly 3 Road Racing Shoes: Nike’s Vaporfly 3 is hands-down one of the best running shoes on the market, thanks to its “super shoe” carbon fiber flyplate that launches you forward with each stride — which brings an excellent energy boost as you walk, too. The shoe also supports weight distribution and proper alignment, which is a key factor to look for in shoes you plan to be wearing all day.
Colorways: Silver and green; orange and white; black and white
Special features: Comfortgroove outsole; 1/2-inner sleeve; waterfall collar
Editor testing and review notes: “This sneaker’s exaggerated rocker and Comfortgroove technology can feel strange at first as the shoe propels you forward, but once you trust it, you’ll be delighted by the plush comfort and ease of movement — it begins to feel natural, and you’ll miss it when you switch to other shoe styles. Nike Motiva walking shoes feel like the equivalent of a spa day for my typically tired, aching feet; the not-so-guilty pleasure of a step in the right direction towards the proper foot care this city guy truly needed.” – Adam Mansuroglu, Footwear News Director of Commerce
What reviewers say: “I’ve owned what feels like hundreds of Nike shoes and these by far are the best for overall design and maximum comfort! In my opinion everyone should try out these incredible shoes. Whoever designed these shoes deserves an award.”
Price upon publish date of this article: $110
Colorways: White, black, blue, green, purple, and more
Special features: Foam midsole, herringbone outsole, padded collar
Today, they’ve been updated with a wider toe box and side reinforcements for added comfort and better foot alignment, as well as reengineered upper materials that prevent warping from typical wear and tear. Keep in mind their leather uppers will not provide optimal breathability in high temperatures like other Nike walking shoes, however the firm construction will maintain their shape for years worth of wear.
Editor testing and review notes: “If you love the look of retro sneakers but don’t want to sacrifice essential walking shoe support, I can’t recommend the Cortez enough. The spongey midsole and wedge insert feels plush and lightweight underfoot, and the softly structured uppers feel flexible atop my mild bunions and flat feet. The narrow footbed may not be ideal wide foot types, but the reworked, roomier toe box still lends plenty of wiggle room.”
What testers say: “Love the improved design of the Cortez. The little bit wider toe is more comfortable. I wear them everyday.”
Price upon publish date of this article: $90
Colorways: Orange; white and coral; black and gold; gray and white; and more
Special features: Nike ZoomX foam, Flyknit, padded tongue, waffle outsole
What testers say: “Wow. I absolutely love these shoes. I ran a mile on them indoors and they felt great, so I took them outdoors yesterday and it was the easiest, most comfortable 7 miles I’ve ever run. I comfortably ran about 20-30 seconds faster than my typical distance pace. I easily beat my PB for a 10k. In the past I’ve had some plantar fasciitis after long runs, but so far I have had zero pain. They are worth every penny in my opinion. They fit snug around the mid foot but not too tight, I went with my typical size in running shoes (1/2 size up from my regular shoe size) and I had no issues with heel slippage or too much/too late space around the toes. They are extremely light weight and very bouncy.”
Price upon publish date of this article: $260
Colorways: Black and white; black and pink; white and silver; beige and off-white
Special features: Dynamic Air unit system, multilayered mesh uppers, rubber outsoles
What testers say: “From the moment I slid my feet into these beauties, I knew the Women’s Nike Air Max DN and I were going to have some adventures together. The White/Pure Platinum/Summit White/Metallic Silver combo is just chef’s kiss. They’re like that one piece of jewelry that goes with everything, but for my feet!”
Price upon publish date of this article: $160
Colorways: White and navy; all black; black and red; and more
Special features: Nike Air cushioning, Air-Sole unit runs, rubber sole
What testers say: “I bought my first pair of these over 20 years ago loved them so much I have been buying them ever since. I even bought them as gifts for a couple other people they loved them too. I won’t buy anything else — it’s the only sneaker I can wear.”
Price upon publish date of this article: $80
Colorways: Black and white, all-black, orange, gray, navy, and more
Special features: Traction rubber outsole; cooling mesh zones; recycled material
What testers say: “These are extremely comfortable and fit true to size. These are my 3rd pair in the last 5 years. I wear them as almost a daily sneaker and they last about a year and a half which is very reasonable.”
Price upon publish date of this article: $75
Colorways: Black and white, white, black and pink, and more
Special features: Nike React technology; Flyknit technology; laceless Flywire
What testers say: “These shoes are great. They fit just right, don’t cause blisters, and take seconds to put on.”
Price upon publish date of this article: $150
Colorways: Black and white, orange, gray
Special features: Nike Air unit, waffle-inspired traction pattern, reflective details
Price upon publish date of this article: $150
Colorways: Red and navy, blue and cream, navy, black and white, and more
Special features: ZoomX foam; Flyknit upper; rocker heel
What testers say: “These shoes are an absolute game changer. They are incredibly comfortable and supportive, the sole is so spongey it feels like I’m being propelled with every step. Recovery is so much faster as a lot of the impact is taken up by the shoe rather than your legs. I cannot recommend enough.”
Price upon publish date of this article: $180
Colorways: Yellow, pink, white, black, orange, off-white, and more
Special features: Nike Zoom Air; Nike React technology
What testers say: “I absolutely love these shoes! The toe box is wider than normal, which I need, and cushion is great! The rise isn’t overly huge — I’m not a runner so I’m a daily user and look for comfort and breathability. These fit the bill perfectly. I’ll be getting a personalized color as a second pair so I can add just a bit of flare to a black pair.”
Price upon publish date of this article: $140
Colorways: Black, white, gray, navy, and more
Special features: Nike Air cushioning, elastic midfoot band, revamped toe box
What testers say: “Great sneakers. Very comfortable. Fit is perfect. Perfect if you are on your feet all day.”
Price upon publish date of this article: $72.97
Colorways: Off white, white, black, blue, green, multi, and more
Special features: Flywire cables
What testers say: “The Nike ReactX Pegasus Trail 5 are excellent!! The sneaker is great for all day, everyday wear and is extremely comfortable and durable. It has a sock-like feel and the materials used are top tier. I love the look of this sneaker as well with the back of it being very stylish and sleek. There’s not much I would change about it. This is a perfect multi use sneaker, from the gym to the grocery store I didn’t want to take it off!”
Price upon publish date of this article: $150
Colorways: Navy and gray, crimson, black and white, light pink, and more
Special features: Nike ZoomX foam; Zoom Air cushioning
What testers say: “The perfect sneaker. It’s light, smooth, fits perfectly and feels like walking on marshmallows. The cushioning, shock absorption ,and energy return is out of this world. I’ll be buying more pairs to stock up.”
Price upon publish date of this article: $160
Colorways: Black and gray, red, navy, green, all black, and more
Special features: Nike React technology; rock plate forefoot; midfoot saddle
What testers say: “The fit and feel of these shoes is phenomenal. My favorite part is how breathable they are! I like how it keeps my feet from overheating or getting too sweaty. They’re great for activity like trail running, but also comfortable enough for being on your feet all day.”
Price upon publish date of this article: $119.97
Colorways: Black and white, navy and white, white and blue, lilac, and more
Special features: Zoom Air
What testers say: “I’ve owned many generations of this shoe. It’s the best ‘stability’ shoe by far. These have been my go-to for running errands, walking my dog, and daily activities. When you wear this shoe you immediately feel the Zoom unit that helps you through each stride. Very lightweight and very comfortable.”
Price upon publish date of this article: $140
Colorways: White, black, pink, green, navy, and more
Special features: Foam midsole, heel padding, rubber lug traction
What testers say: “These shoes are perfect for my long walks. I walk about six miles three times a week and they feel light and flexible. On the first try they were a little snug as I have a wide foot but they have loosened up. I would highly recommend as they are comfortable and affordable. They are true to size.”
Price upon publish date of this article: $70
Nike Walking Shoes Vs. Running Shoes
Although Mendeszoon recommends a wearing a running shoe for walking, especially if you have foot concerns, there are distinctions between the two. For example, the Nike Motiva Shoe, which released last summer as Nike’s only model categorized for walking, boasts specific features like stacked rocker soles and grooved traction — both of which would get in the way if you wanted to break out in a sprint.
However, many of Nike’s running and lifestyle shoes make for exceptional walking shoes all the same. The best Nike shoes for standing all day and regular movement should always feature plush and durable cushioning that won’t flatten or tear through consistent use. Shock-absorbing midsoles, which you can find in Nike Air technology or ReactX foam, will provide a buoyant ride while also protecting the joints, back, and knees from strain. You’ll also want to select Nike running or lifestyle shoes with breathable, flexible uppers that won’t constrict your toes and feet through long hours of wear.
The Best Nike Walking Shoes for Different Foot Conditions and Foot Types
- Best Nike walking shoes for flat feet: If you have flat feet or generally need more support, look for a walking shoe that has a more expansive midsole and wider fit. “A flat foot does better with more cushioning that stops the foot from rolling in,” says Mendeszoon. Control and stability is key. “Proper support, cushioning, and posting helps neutralize abnormal stresses and forces,” he adds.
- Best Nike walking shoes for wide feet: If the sides of your feet tend to feel constricted in walking shoes, you’ll want to look for Nike sneakers that support wide feet. Those with wide feet should seek a walking shoe that fits snug, but not tight. Look for Nike shoes with a stable shank, cushioned midsole, and stable heel counter, as well as wide toe boxes or specific wide fit options.
- Best Nike walking shoes for high arches: Walking shoes for high arches should be supportive and well-cushioned to prevent pain from occurring while you’re spending your day on your feet. Nike walking shoes will elevated cushioning in the midfoot bring essential arch support, which prevents painful shock as you step. Also seek out shoes with a significant heel-to drop and wider toe box.
- Best Nike walking shoes for plantar fasciitis: Those with plantar fasciitis should pay attention to walking shoes with a thick arch, forefoot rocker, a sizable heel-toe drop, and rearfoot support. Look for heel cups, heel counters, and flared heels that offer more stability and control. Nike’s Motiva shoes or Invincible 3 shoes are great options, due to their stiff insoles and cushioning that supports the foot and avoids irritation.
What to Look for in the Best Nike Walking Shoes
- Cushioning: “Make sure there’s a good, solid foot bed that’s comfortable for your feet,” says Mendeszoon. Nike’s responsive React, Zoom Air, and ZoomX cushioning provides a lightweight and bouncy feel as you place one foot in front of the other. Dr. Dan Geller, sports podiatrist and Kane Footwear advisor, says cushioning is essential for shorter walks on even terrain. He adds, “they should also be light and have an easy transfer of weight from heel to toe.”
- Outsole: When it comes to everyday walking shoes, you’ll want a sneaker that has versatile function and durable traction. Mendeszoon says to look for a “solid footbed that’s comfortable for your feet, a supportive midsole, and a good solid outer that has the ability to go on different surfaces, like trails or cement.”
- Arch support: You’ll find arch support in walking shoes that include an indented heel bed, a shock-absorbing foot bed, and elevated cushioning.
- Fit: If you’ll be on your feet for an extended period of time, a secure fit is essential for comfort, stability, and irritation prevention. Nike’s elastic Flywire technology is specially engineered to hold your foot snug within the shoe, which can be found in the Nike React Phantom Run Flyknit 2 or the Nike Invincible 3 shoes.
How We Chose the Best Nike Walking Shoes
For more than 75 years, Footwear News has been the shoe authority. Our coverage spans top industry news, retail trends, head-to-toe fashion, athletic and outdoor analysis and more. Footwear News’ global network of editors has carefully curated all product selections featured using our expansive brand knowledge and thorough research to find quality, long-lasting items.
We curated this shopping guide of the best Nike walking shoes with expert insight from podiatrist Mark Mendeszoon. Additionally, these selections reflect thorough research by the Footwear News team across Nike’s walking and running shoe selections, based in Nike sneaker technology, specialized fit, and special features that align with a variety of needs and foot types. We also compared customer reviews across Nike’s selections to determine the most beloved Nike walking shoes. Learn more about us here.
Meet the Experts
Mark Mendeszoon is a podiatrist and foot and ankle surgeon. He extended medical insight in this article to determine the most supportive Nike sneakers for various foot types and conditions. He is currently based in Ohio.
Dr. Dan Geller is a board-certified foot and ankle surgeon and advisor for Kane Footwear.
Meet the Author
Olivia Cigliano is a Commerce Writer & Producer at Footwear News and WWD where she writes shopping content on the best-rated footwear, TikTok style trends, and more. Olivia received her bachelor’s degree in journalism from Emerson College, and her byline can be found in publications including Elite Daily and CR Fashion Book. She updated this guide for the best Nike walking shoes in July 2024 with editor testing reviews and new releases to shop from the Swoosh.
