One of the great things about walking is that you only need a good pair of walking shoes, and you're good to go! These shoes are designed to make walking as effortless and safe as possible. They facilitate a more natural walking motion and reduce your chances of injuries.
Wearing the right pair of shoes will also make walking much more comfortable, which means you're more likely to enjoy the activity! In this article, we'll enumerate our list of the best shoes for walking that you can get in the Philippines. After that, we'll discuss some of the important considerations that should be taken into account when choosing a pair.
Quick List - Top Walking Shoes
On
Light as a Feather and Great for Those Who Want Ample Cushioning
Asics
Has Superior Resistance to Abrasion for Long Walks
Merrell
A Pair That's Recommended for Trail Walking
Nike
Classic Lifestyle Shoes With a Superb Cushioning System
Our recommendation articles are carefully researched and crafted by the mybest Philippines team of writers and editors. To stay true to our company’s mission and vision to help users’ selection process easier, we also collaborate with experts from various fields to ensure that our content stays factual and useful.
Table of Contents
When looking for a pair of walking shoes, comfort and performance are some of the most important aspects that you should take into account. The last thing that you want is a pair that causes pain and discourages you from walking. In line with these, here are some considerations that you should make before purchasing your shoes.
While lace-ups and slip-ons have their advantages and disadvantages, the wearing experience will largely depend on the shoes in question. Some brands have developed ways to make lace-ups easier to put on. Meanwhile, some slip-ons are so well-designed that they offer great foot support.
Most walking shoes come in a lace-up design. This means you can use laces to adjust how they fit. This feature can be useful if you want your shoes to fit either tighter or looser. Additionally, the laces give an extra layer of support for your feet and your ankles.
Do keep in mind that shoelaces can be seen as a trip hazard, especially if you don't tie them properly. Tying and untying shoelaces can also be a hassle. It takes time and requires you to bend or kneel down, which can be a hassle when you're in the middle of a great stride.
If you don’t want the inconvenience of having to tie and untie your laces, check out slip-ons. Slip-ons have elastic panels at the side to facilitate easy wearing, as you simply have to slide your feet in and out of the shoes. They also have a simple look due to their lack of laces, which may appeal to those looking for minimalist shoes.
However, it’s important to keep in mind that there is no way to adjust the fit of slip-ons. So even if you manage to get the right size, your slip-on walking shoes might end up either a little loose or tight. They also offer less support for your feet, so you’ll have to be a little more careful when walking with slip-ons.
The materials of your walking shoes will directly affect how comfortable they can be. High-quality materials will also make the shoes more durable and long-lasting. Here are some common materials that you may see in the upper, midsoles, and outsoles of typical walking shoes.
Most shoes for walking extensively use mesh for their uppers, and it’s easy to see why. Mesh is a lightweight material that is loosely woven to provide superior breathability and airflow. It also facilitates quick drying of your shoes in case they get wet.
Sometimes, walking shoe uppers would also feature layers of leather or suede. Aside from making the shoes more aesthetically pleasing, these areas with leather and suede serve to stiffen up the shoes a bit. They add to the durability of the shoes and provide additional support for your feet.
The midsole is responsible for shock absorption, support, and protection for your feet. Midsoles are typically made of EVA, a lightweight foam material that provides a dense cushion. The midsoles are designed to be either stiff or flexible. Stiff midsoles are meant to be used for walking on trails, while flexible ones are great for relaxed walks.
These days, big shoe brands usually develop their own special midsoles to ensure the best possible mix of comfort and protection. These cushioning systems would typically use special foams, gels, or even air units to make the shoes stay comfortable during long walks.
The outsole is the part of the shoes that actually makes contact with the ground with every step. As such, you’ll want an outsole that’s made with a grippy material such as rubber to decrease your chances of slipping on surfaces. Additionally, outsoles could also have molded lugs and characteristic grooves to further increase their traction.
The heel counter is the part of the shoe that holds the back of your heel. A good heel counter should snugly hold your foot in place without restricting too much movement. It should also be firm and may be reinforced with a rigid material for better stability.
Having a high-quality heel counter prevents your feet from either overpronating or supinating. It can also minimize the abnormal stretching of the ligament around the arch of your foot, decreasing the risk of inflammation in the heel.
The key to ensuring that your shoes stay comfortable all the time is finding the perfect fit. Next to trying the shoes out at a physical store, the best way to ensure a perfect fit would be to check a size chart. Luckily, most brands offer their own size charts that consider the length and width of your feet. Read buyer reviews, too, as they usually tell whether the shoes run small, big, or true to size.
Once you receive your shoes, try them out and see how they fit. A good pair of walking shoes should feel great right out of the box. There should be at least a ½ inch between your longest toe and the end of the shoe. Watch out for a pinching sensation or any other uncomfortable feeling.
If you do feel that you've bought the wrong size, contact the seller where you purchased the shoes from. Some sellers gladly offer free returns and exchanges for wrong sizes, so it pays to take note of the exchange policy as well!
Products | Image | Click to purchase | Key features | |
---|---|---|---|---|
1 | On Cloud | ![]() | Currently unavailable | Light as a Feather and Great for Those Who Want Ample Cushioning |
2 | Asics Novablast 2 | ![]() | Currently unavailable | Has Superior Resistance to Abrasion for Long Walks |
3 | Under Armour HOVR Infinite Summit 2 | ![]() | A Pair of Unisex Shoes That Makes Walking Effortless | |
4 | Merrell Havoc Vent | ![]() | Currently unavailable | A Pair That's Recommended for Trail Walking |
5 | Nike Air Max 90 SE | ![]() | Currently unavailable | Classic Lifestyle Shoes With a Superb Cushioning System |
6 | New Balance 247 Sport Sneakers | ![]() | Currently unavailable | Keep Your Feet Fresh With These Breathable Kicks |
7 | Adidas NMD_R1 | ![]() | Knit Mesh That Fits Your Foot Like a Sock | |
8 | Saucony Stretch & Go Ease | ![]() | Currently unavailable | Get the Lace-Up Look in These Slip-On Shoes |
9 | World Balance Kaia City Pack - Miami | ![]() | Currently unavailable | With Plenty of Bounce for Those With Joint Issues |
10 | Skechers Go Walk Air | ![]() | Currently unavailable | An Air-Cushioned Option for People Who Like Minimalist Designs |
It's easy to see why the On Cloud is a highly-regarded pair of shoes by many people. The upper part of these shoes uses breathable, antimicrobial mesh to keep them fresh. The elasticated laces make these shoes as easy to wear as slip-ons. And if you find them a little loose, you can simply pull the ends of the laces until you find the perfect fit.
The Zero-Gravity foam midsole provides enough cushion for all-day comfort, while the Cloudtec outsole is molded to provide the best possible grip. It also has a Speedboard layer, a plate sitting right above the midsole, that flexes after every step to propel you forward. And considering it's lightweight, wearing it might actually feel like walking on clouds!
Although the Novablast 2 is marketed as running shoes, it has features that make it excellent for walking. Its Flytefoam Blast cushioning system gives you a soft and springy feel, perfect for long walks. It's great at absorbing shocks and making each step feel smoother.
Its AHAR Plus outsole has three times the abrasion resistance of conventional rubber outsoles, making the shoes durable for long-term use. External TPU overlays help in improving stability by supporting the heel. Just keep in mind that these wear quite big, so make sure to go for half a size down.
This pair from Under Armour is guaranteed to make walking very easy, even if you do it for hours on end. One of its highlights is the HOVR technology that provides energy return with every step. This means you'll be able to walk farther without experiencing fatigue.
You get perfectly cushioned shoes, thanks to its EVA sock liner. Each pair also features carbon rubber pods under the heel for excellent shock absorption. The rubber outsole, on the other hand, has deep grooves for improved flexibility and durability. Lastly, the mesh upper is not only breathable but it's also made of recycled polyester!
If you prefer hitting your stride on the trail, the Havoc Vent will serve you well. This pair features a breathable mesh upper lined with suede to wick away moisture. At the front, you get abrasion-resistant toecaps to protect your toes. Underneath is a Vibram outsole for excellent traction on most surfaces and weather conditions.
They don't sacrifice comfort as well. While they aren't the lightest walking shoes around, they do feature Merrell's air cushion technology to give plenty of shock absorption. They also come with a molded nylon shank to help improve your balance when walking on uneven terrain.
Few can beat the Air Max 90 SE in terms of cushioning. A plush foam midsole provides a soft surface for your feet. It comes with Nike's revolutionary Max Air unit to provide superb cushioning on your heel as well. These shoes are designed for all-day comfort!
The air unit is visible and looks great when combined with the classic 90's aesthetic of the shoes. The upper is overlaid with TPU, suede, and leather for a more interesting look that'll go great with many athleisure outfits. And with the iconic waffle sole, you're sure to get great traction on most surfaces!
The New Balance 247s are known for being one of the most comfortable shoes that you can walk with. The extensive use of mesh for the upper gives your feet great airflow, helping them keep cool and dry. These are also very flexible and allow your feet to move freely.
The REVlite midsoles provide such an impressive cushioning that some reviewers even describe it as similar to walking on clouds. These midsoles also weigh significantly less than comparable foams from other brands. And if you choose to go with this navy blue variant, you'll love how easy it is to pair with any outfit!
If you're looking for well-fitting shoes that are comfortable, the NMD_R1 sure fits the bill. The upper features a knit mesh that's stretchy and provides you with a sock-like fit. You also get none other than the acclaimed energy-returning Boost midsole, a soft cushioning system for that all-day comfort.
The midsole plugs don't just give the shoe its iconic look. They actually bridge and shape the insole such that it supports your feet when walking. The pull tab makes putting these on a breeze, too. And if the white color isn't your thing, don't worry. It's available in plenty of different color combinations to suit your style!
Want the look of lace-up shoes minus the hassle of dealing with actual laces? The Stretch & Go Ease is definitely for you. These are essentially slip-on shoes with fixed elastic laces, so you don't have to worry about your laces flopping around as you walk. This feature also makes the shoes super easy to just slip on and off.
The shoes feel lightweight and comfortable, thanks to the plush Form2U insoles. The upper is made of a breathable mesh for all-day comfort, and it has an EVA midsole that's very flexible. A polyurethane frame stiffens the back area for better heel support as well, so you're getting quite a complete package with this pair.
The World Balance Kaia is a pair that wears as good as it looks. The chunky design and chic color combination make this pair a great highlight of your OOTDs, and you'll want to wear them every day due to their comfort. The Bounce Pad insoles are satisfyingly soft and bouncy, allowing for a more effortless striding experience, especially for those with leg or joint issues.
The mesh upper is layered with leather and mesh panels that add a premium feel to the shoes. The EVA midsole acts as a nice cushion, while the rubber outsole provides impressive traction. Just make sure to go one size larger, as these wear quite small.
Don't be fooled by the simple aesthetic of this pair from Skechers, as it has many walk-friendly features. Their uppers are constructed with soft woven knit mesh that stretches to hug your feet comfortably. They also come with Goga Mat insoles that make you feel like you're walking on a soft and bouncy yoga mat.
The visible Gowalk air-cushioned heel pad provides great shock absorption, while the ULTRA GO cushion makes walking much more effortless. For stability, you get dual-outsoles. The heel pad is firm and will do great in providing support when you walk. The minimalist style of these shoes also makes them pair well with almost any outfit!
While a good pair of walking shoes should be both comfy and durable, they might not be appropriate for more intense exercises and sports. Here are some shoes that you might want to check out if you plan on doing some hiking, cycling, running, or playing basketball!
10 Best Hiking Shoes in the Philippines 2022 | Merrell, Columbia, and More
10 Best Cycling Shoes in the Philippines 2022 | Buying Guide Reviewed by Fitness Coach
10 Best Running Shoes in the Philippines 2022 | Buying Guide Reviewed by Fitness Coach
10 Basketball Shoes in the Philippines 2022 | Nike, Adidas, Under Armour, and More
Walking is a great non-intensive activity to maintain an active lifestyle. Walking for at least 30 minutes on most days of the week will do wonders for your health. However, if you’re coming from a serious disease or injury or you haven’t exercised for a long time, it would be better to consult your doctor first before trying out a new fitness program.
While walking is an exercise that most people can engage in, doing it safely and comfortably is a different story. Finding a pair of high-quality walking shoes is a must. We hope our top 10 list and buying guide have helped you in finding the right pair for your needs. Now’s the time to walk your way to better health!
Author: A. Coseip
Editor: R. Umlas
Like and follow our Instagram and Facebook page for updates!
No. 1: On|Cloud
No. 2: Asics|Novablast 2
No. 3: Under Armour|HOVR Infinite Summit 2
No. 4: Merrell|Havoc Vent
No. 5: Nike|Air Max 90 SE
View Full RankingThe descriptions of each product are referenced from content available on manufacturer, brand, and e-commerce sites.
Beauty
Health
Household goods
PCs and laptops
Home appliances and electronics
Cameras
Food and drinks
Kitchen supplies
Clothing
Shoes
Accessories
Mom and baby
Interior and furniture
Hobbies
Outdoor
DIY and tools
Sports and fitness
Pets
Books, CDs, and DVDs
Games
Cars and motorcycles
Gifts
Home improvement and tools
Smartphones and tablets
Banking and finance
Insurance
Audio
Smartphone applications
Others