If you’re on your feet all day and disappointed with your shoes, it can be a daunting task to find a pair that is right for you.
I’ve had long days when I commuted an hour and a half each way into and out of New York City for over 10 years. There were many times when I was on my feet leaving my home until I reached the office. I’ve had jobs where I’ve been on my feet for at least 10 long hours a day. I’ve been to Disney World, Sesame Place, and other large theme parks and walked long distances at each venue.
I’ve made it a mission to find the most comfortable, supportive, functional, stylish shoes I can find to walk around in all day primarily on concrete.
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Best Walking Shoes for Long Distance on Concrete
There are many factors you should consider, of course. How is the cushioning in the shoe? How is the support? Do they run large or small? Do they give you blisters? I’ve thought about all these factors and come up with a list of the best walking shoes for long distance on concrete. All of these shoes are great, and I’ll explain why. This list is comprised primarily of sneakers I either own, have tried on, or have heard rave reviews about first hand.
Boots and Dress Shoes
1. Clarks Wallabee
Is the Clarks Wallabee having a resurgence? Or is the general population just catching on to what some of us have known for years. Either way, the Wallabee is a great option and an iconic classic in the Clarks Originals collection around the world.
Thanks to its moccasin construction and structural silhouette, the Wallabee is one of the most comfortable shoes for walking around in all day, and stylish to wear to the office or casual wear. It’s not a dress shoe, but it’s definitely not a sneaker either. Featuring clean and simple lines, this comfortable lace-up model is crafted with a full leather upper. And of course, the signature crepe sole stands out from other casual shoes.
Also, if you’re interested in a modernized version of the Wallabee, check out the Wallabee Eden.
2. Clarks Desert Boot
Another classic and great shoe from the English brand Clarks is their Desert Boot line. Also suitable for both the office and casual wear, the Desert Boot looks more like a typical boot compared to the Wallabee. It is made with 100% leather and also has a crepe sole, but the sole is thinner compared to the Wallabee. The Desert Boot comes in a variety of colors, from black to dark brown to light sand. It’s certainly cut out for city streets and suburban treks to the malls on the weekends.
3. Alden Long Wing Blucher
If you have to dress up and wear a suit, it can be a daunting task to be on your feet all day in a dress shoe. I’ve worn many different dress shoes over the years, and my top pick is the Alden Long Wing Blucher. This is a serious wingtip for men who take dressing up seriously. I’ve never been a fan of the sneaker/dress shoe craze. In my opinion, if you’re wearing a suit, you should go all out and wear a proper dress shoe as well.
Of course, men have had so many negative experiences with dress shoes hurting their feet that they’ve given up and gone with the sneaker/dress shoe. I can personally attest that the Aldens are a perfect fit right off the bat. Quite possibly the most important feature, the cordovan shell is made from horse hide rather than cattle, which molds to your foot better and is overall a low maintenance leather. You will pay extra for the high quality of an Alden shoe, but it will break in and last you at least 10 – 15 years. For sizing, make sure to try a pair on if you can. They tend to run much bigger than other shoes.
4. Cole Haan Original Grand Wingtip
If you must go with a sneaker/dress shoe option, go with the brand that made them popular: Cole Haan. Their Original Grand Wingtip is a great value and definitely a comfortable fit. The Original Grand is the one that started it all beginning in 2012 when a designer tried to make a statement by combining a sneaker and a dress shoe. Now, basically 75% of commuters in New York City are wearing them.
A Saffiano high-quality Italian leather crafted with a specialized stamping process to creates a refined, durable finish with distinct cross-hatch texture. EVA midsole provides comfort and lots of cushioning for hard surfaces. Forefoot and heel rubber pods add traction and durability on concrete floors, and a molded sock liner adds comfort and cushioning.
5. Red Wing Iron Ranger
Personally, I don’t believe boots should be too comfortable. They are boots – not sneakers. They’re meant to feel durable, long-lasting, and tough. When I put on my Iron Rangers, I know I’m going to work to get stuff done. Several times, I’ve worn my Iron Rangers into New York City and expected to have blisters and be in pain by the end of the day. To my surprise, they had a more lightweight feel and were more comfortable than I assumed. They are definitely not as comfortable as sneakers, or even Clarks Desert Boots, but they are rugged and keep your foot secure all day long.
With its toe cap, speed hooks, and Vibram® outsole, there’s no mistaking this legend. I even feel like people take me a little more seriously when I have them on. They know I mean business. I can also say that the Iron Rangers are lighter and much easier to break in compared to my other favorite Red Wing: the Classic Moc. Red Wings tend to run big, so make sure to try a pair on if possible.
Classic Sneakers
6. Nike Air Max Plus
The Air Max Plus is celebrating its 25th anniversary this year, and it’s still as popular as ever. I have always loved the Air Max Plus because of its wavy lines and Tuned Air cushioning. Nike is still cranking out new colorways and bringing back some classic colors as well. Tuned Air in the heel provides a more supportive cushioning compared to a regular Nike Air Max unit, plus there is Air in the forefoot as well. If you’ve never owned a pair, they are definitely a fun sneaker to wear and you will get a lot of head nods from sneaker enthusiasts.
7. New Balance 993
If the New Balance 990v6 is a bit too modern for you, check out the 993 for another good choice. It is one of New Balance’s most classic silhouettes, and it pairs nicely with everything from jeans to chinos.
Manufactured in the US for over 75 years, the 993 features an ABZORB midsole for shock absorption through a combination of cushioning and compression resistance. A premium suede/mesh upper provides a durable and comfortable feel. ACTEVA cushioning delivers versatile, flexible support for the foot, and a full-length rubber outsole with Ndurance rubber heel for added durability helps get more wear out of the shoe. The 993 runs slightly big, so size down at least a half size.
8. Nike Air Monarch
The Nike Air Monarch has had quite a run the past ten years. First touted as a “dad shoe,” sneaker sub-cultures quickly realized that the Monarch was a legit comfortable sneaker that you could wear on a daily basis as a great walking shoe. Word spread, and all of a sudden everyone from 15 to 65 was interested in trying out a pair.
Featuring a leather and synthetic upper for a classic look, the Monarch flies under the radar for those who don’t want too much attention. The greatest feature for comfort is a full-length encapsulated Air-Sole unit which cushions for a pillow-like feel. The solid rubber sole is durable and provides traction over varied surfaces. They also come in a variety of widths for those with wide feet or who need a roomy toe box.
9. Golden Goose Super-Star
One of Golden Goose’s most popular models, the Super-Star is a super versatile tennis sneaker that can be worn with everything from jeans to chinos to suits. It costs a bit more than average tennis shoes, but it’s well worth it for the quality and details. Made in Italy with a 100% leather upper, the Super-Star is designed to look worn-in for good reason so you don’t have to worry about getting them dirty. A high-quality insole feels much nicer than cheaper shoes, and they’re great for everyday wear without worrying about your feet hurting.
10. Adidas Samba
The Samba is having an absolutely massive year. As soccer shoes become more popular, it is obvious that the Samba is the trailblazer for this category. For those who are looking for a comfortable sneaker but don’t necessarily want to wear a running shoe, the Samba is a great timeless option.
Priced at $100 with tons of different colors, the Samba looks great with everything from shorts to jeans to dress pants. It features a soft leather upper and suede overlays along with the classic 3 stripes on the side. The Samba doesn’t have much in terms of cushioning – just a gum rubber midsole – but it’s definitely still a comfortable good walking shoe to wear all day. I’ve had a black pair for a long time from 2008, and they’re still going strong.
11. Nike Air Max 97
The hype has cooled down on the Air Max 97 over the past few years, but that just means you’ll be able to find your size easier when you walk into the store. In my opinion, the Air Max 97 is one of the greatest sneaker designs of all time. It was the first Nike running shoe to feature a full-length visible Air-Sole unit for cushioning.
Over 25 years later, and Nike still sells them in a variety of colors year after year. The Air Max 97 tends to run slightly small, so you may want to go a half size up. They are also not great if you have flat feet, as there isn’t much arch support in them. Those issues aside, the Air Max 97 is a super-comfy casual sneaker great for long walks.
12. New Balance 574
I bought my first pair of 574’s back in college in 2003. I wore them everywhere all day and all night. They were my go-to and only sneaker for at least 3 semesters. The 574 is a super-classic New Balance silhouette that continues to be popular today.
And, under $100, it’s still a great value compared to all the other options. It is unassuming, unpretentious, and feels like a nice cozy sock inside. An ENCAP midsole combines soft foam with a durable polyurethane rim to deliver all-day support, and they are available in extended width sizes for those with wider feet. Just thinking about them makes me want to buy another pair.
Modern Sneakers
13. Hoka Clifton 9
Ask anyone who owns a pair of Hoka sneakers and they will usually tell you they wouldn’t buy anything else. Light and plush for everyday miles, the Hoka Clifton 9 is ideal for both walking and running on the concrete. This iteration of the Clifton is lighter and more cushioned than ever.
By eliminating weight and adding 3mm in stack height, the new Clifton 9 delivers a revitalized underfoot experience with a responsive new foam and improved outsole design. Removing overlays and hotmelts, the stripped back upper has been consciously crafted with a plusher heel, reflective heel panel, and streamlined tongue with single side medial gusset. It’s one of the best running shoes on the market and also one of the most comfortable walking shoes you’ll find.
14. ON Cloud 5
Similar to Hoka, if you ask anyone who owns a pair of ON shoes, odds are they’ll tell you they would never wear anything else. The Cloud 5 is one of the most popular models, featuring 44% recycled content, and an improved fit for even more comfort than ever before.
At only 250 grams, the Cloud 5 is lightweight and features an updated silhouette with new materials and tech feature. A breathable antimicrobial mesh with taped reinforcements keeps your Cloud 5s smelling fresh. CloudTec® in Zero-Gravity foam provides an exceptional cushioned landing. The hype is real on ON shoes, so make sure to start with the Cloud 5 if you’re curious what all the buzz is about.
15. Nike Pegasus 40
Year after year, the Pegasus has been Nike’s most popular and reliable running shoe. It’s not flashy, but it gets the job done for feet that need to be coddled on the road. This iteration of the Pegasus features both React cushioning and Zoom Air in the heel and forefoot. It’s the perfect balance of cushioning and responsiveness.
Personally, I enjoy walking in the Pegasus more than running in them, as they are a bit too squishy for my taste. This is definitely not a bad thing overall, as I find myself throwing them on when I’m going to be on my feet all day. The Pegasus provides a bit of support, but is most suitable for a neutral runner. They’re great for everything from 5K’s to marathons as well. I’ve noticed the Pegasus 40 runs a little large, so you may want to go a half size down.
16. Jordan Luka 2
If you like hooping and are looking for a basketball sneaker that is comfy for regular use as well, the best option is the Luka 2.
Designed for superstar forward Luka Doncic, the Luka 2 has plenty of extra support and cushioning for both the blacktop and the city streets. A wedge of cushioning against the medial sidewall helps you easily make cuts on the court, and a thick, molded insole helps you stay grounded. A strong, flexible plate runs up the sidewall, complimented by a firm foam carrie for plenty of support. Full-length Formula 23 foam cushioning feels like firm, top of the line memory foam mattress.
You won’t want to take these off once you have them on. The Luka 2 runs true to size.
17. Allbirds Wool Runner
This sneaker put Allbirds on the map. With a superfine ZQ Merino wool material that is incredibly soft and cozy, naturally thermoregulating, and ready for anything, you can zip around the city all day and barely feel a thing. ZQRx Regenerative Wool Material is grown using regenerative farming practices that aim to help reverse climate change through practices that restore and preserve nature.
The warm and cozy premium ZQ Merino wool provides next-level comfort, and you can wear them with everything from casual to classic looks. A soft spongy SweetFoam® midsole is made with sugarcane-based green EVA, and the shoelaces are made from recycled plastic bottles, so you’re doing something good for the planet when you wear them.
18. Adidas Ultraboost Light
I’ve seen kids around town rocking the new Ultraboost Light and I’ve got to say I’m a bit jealous. They look really comfy and I want a pair. This is the lightest Ultraboost ever, and has thousands of positive reviews on sneaker websites. It features the lightest most cushiony BOOST foam ever, so you will feel like you’re walking on a cloud. It also features a Primeknit upper, so it’s comfy and breathable no matter how many miles you’re putting in. Kanye West put BOOST on the map when he was with adidas, and the Ultraboost is still one of their most popular running sneakers. Definitely give them a shot for running and walking.
19. Salomon XT-6
Salomon has been having a moment for a few years now, and leading the way is the now-classic XT-6. Originally launched in 2013, the XT-6 is the preferred footwear of world-class athletes for ultra-distance races under harsh conditions. It now returns with updated colors and materials, but the same level of cushioning, durability and descent-control. Plenty of people are wearing them just for everyday use instead of hardcore training as well. Featuring a quicklace lacing system, EVA cushioning and excellent stability, the XT-6 is great when the weather gets rough.
20. ASICS GEL-NYC
ASICS running shoes are some of the most reliable for both running and walking. A newer model that boasts a retro feel is the GEL-NYC. At $130, it’s a great value for a running shoe that also works great for casual wear and walking. Its upper construction references the GEL-NIMBUS® 3 shoe from the early 2000s. The tooling contrasts the upper’s retro influences by using the GEL-CUMULUS® 16 shoe’s tooling system. Through a combination of lightweight foams and GEL® technology inserts, the midsole formation helps create advanced underfoot comfort. Both heel and forefoot GEL cushioning provide excellent comfort for all-day wear.
21. New Balance 990v6
One of New Balance’s most popular new models is the 990v6. Continuing to build on their iconic silhouette, you really cannot go wrong with any 990 model. They are the most comfortable and stylish New Balance sneaker in my opinion. However, if you want to try out something new, check out the 990v6. The designers of the first 990 sought to create the best running shoe on the market. The updated MADE in USA 990v6 embraces this original mantra, with some performance-inspired updates.
The newly designed upper evolves from the standard midfoot saddle, allowing the pigskin and synthetic overlays to flow from heel to toe across the mesh underlay, for a modernized, streamlined look. While the new design marks one of the most dramatic changes from one generation model to the next that the 990 has ever seen, the most innovation occurs inside the shoe. New Balance added a FuelCell midsole, which means that the evolution of the 990 can be felt as much as it can be seen.
