Choosing the right walking shoes is always important, but the decision is especially crucial for seniors who need extra support, comfort, and accommodations for specific foot conditions. As we age, we tend to experience more foot issues, like bunions, hammertoes, arthritis, and plantar fasciitis, says podiatrist Damian Roussel, DPM. These conditions can impede daily physical activity, which is vital to prolonging our healthy years.
To find the best walking shoes for seniors, we spoke with experts—including two podiatrists, a podiatric physical therapist, and an orthopedic surgeon—for input on what key features to look for. Then, we tested over 80 expert-approved walking shoes from 14 trusted brands. The shoes that made our final list of recommendations excelled in cushioning, comfort, fit, support, stability, and value.