You know the feeling of standing in the hallway, fighting a shoe that will not go on, or wondering if the pair by the door will grip a wet sidewalk. Finding the best walking shoes for seniors should not be that hard.
This list covers walking shoes that slip on easily, have room for orthotic inserts, and offer steady grip. We also cover memory foam insoles, and how often to replace your shoes.
Best Walking Shoes For Seniors
We’ve taken the guesswork out of the equation. Here are walking shoes for seniors that do everything we need them to. They are easy to put on, they stay comfortable throughout the day, and they are designed with safety in mind.
Propét Men’s LifeWalker Strap Shoe
The Propet brand is built entirely around the idea of creating the ideal walking shoe. They may branch out into a few other categories, but it’s their classical walking sneakers that always steal the show.
If finding the best shoe starts with finding the best brand, then this is definitely the starting line. And this particular shoe from Propet is designed with seniors in mind.
The inside of the shoe utilizes an ultra-comfortable OrthoLite insole combined with an additional layer of memory foam. If it were possible to walk on a cloud, then this is what it would feel like. The rest of the shoe is just as noteworthy.
It has an EVA midsole, a padded tongue, and a perforated upper. This all adds up to create a comfortable, breathable, and lightweight shoe.
People with diabetes may qualify for Medicare coverage of diabetic shoes. Your doctor and your plan decide what qualifies, so check with them first.
Skechers Women’s Summits Hands-Free Slip-Ins Sneaker
The Skechers Summits Hands-Free Slip-Ins are women’s sneakers made so you can put them on without using your hands. They have fixed stretch laces, so there is nothing to tie and nothing to loosen first.
A Heel Pillow holds your heel in place once your foot is in. You step in from a standing position, which means no bending over or tying. That is a real help if balance is a worry when you put shoes on or take them off.
The insole is Air-Cooled Memory Foam, which gives cushioning underfoot. The upper is a soft heathered jersey knit that breathes.
The midsole is lightweight, flexible and shock absorbing, and the outsole has traction for everyday walking.
They are also machine washable, which is handy for a shoe you wear often.
One thing to know: the laces are fixed, so the fit is set by the stretch and not by tightening them yourself. If you need to adjust the fit a lot, for swollen feet or a brace, a shoe with regular laces may suit you better. These are also women’s sizes only.
Brooks Men’s Adrenaline GTS 25 Running Shoe
The Brooks Adrenaline GTS 25 is sold as a running and walking shoe, so you can use it at any pace, including a slow stroll around the house or the block.
The main feature is what Brooks calls GuideRails, or “Go-To Support.” The idea is to support your body along its natural path of motion while keeping excess movement in check. That can be a help if you want a steadier feel with each step.
The cushioning is a foam called DNA Loft v3. Brooks describes it as soft and dynamic, meant for comfort mile after mile.
The upper is breathable engineered mesh with a flat-knit collar, which is the soft band around the ankle opening. Together they are meant to give a secure, comfortable fit.
This shoe is a certified PDAC A5500 diabetic shoe and has received the APMA Seal of Acceptance. If you have diabetes, that is worth a conversation with your doctor or podiatrist.
The downside: this is a men’s shoe, and it is built as a supportive running shoe. If you like a very plain, flat, minimal shoe, the support features may feel like more than you need.
Brooks Women’s Adrenaline GTS 25 Running Shoe
The Brooks Adrenaline GTS 25 is sold as a running and walking shoe, and it works for walkers who want steady support more than speed. This one is the women’s version, in white and black.
Its main feature is a support system Brooks calls GuideRails. The idea is to support your body along its natural path of motion while keeping excess movement in check. That can be helpful if your feet tend to roll or wobble a bit as you walk.
The cushioning is Brooks’ DNA Loft v3, which is nitrogen-infused. It is meant to feel soft without being mushy, so you can stay comfortable on longer walks.
The upper is breathable engineered mesh with a flat-knit collar, which is the soft band around the ankle opening. Together they are meant to give a secure, comfortable fit.
Two details are worth knowing about. This shoe is a certified PDAC A5500 diabetic shoe and has the APMA Seal of Acceptance. If you have diabetes, ask your doctor or podiatrist whether it suits your feet.
The downside is that it is a athletic-style shoe with a built-in support system. If you want something plain and flat, or you prefer a very minimal feel underfoot, it may feel like more shoe than you need.
Rockport Men’s Eureka Walking Shoe
The Rockport Eureka is a walking shoe for men who spend real time on their feet. Think errands, visits with family, or a full day at work.
The heel has Rockport’s truTECH cushioning, which absorbs shock with each step and is meant to keep that cushioning lasting.
The insoles are memory foam and they come out. That matters if you wear orthotic inserts, because you can take the insole out and put your own in. It also lets you adjust the fit.
There is arch support built in, and the outsole is made to grip a variety of surfaces for a steady stride.
Rockport makes the Eureka in extended sizes and widths, so a wider foot has options. If swelling or a bunion makes shoes feel tight, that is worth checking.
One thing to know: this is a general comfort walking shoe, not a specialty medical shoe. If you have arthritis, diabetes, or another condition that makes walking painful, ask your doctor or foot specialist whether you need something more specific.
Skechers Men’s D’Lux Walker Sneaker
Skechers is one of the most recognizable shoe brands around, and the D’Lux Walker 2.0 Steadyway is a walking sneaker built around cushioning.
The insole is memory foam, the kind that gives a little under your foot. It is air-cooled, which helps with breathability. The midsole is cushioned and responsive, and the outsole is flexible with traction.
The fit is described as relaxed, with a roomy feel at the toe and forefoot. That gives your toes space to move naturally. This pair comes in extra wide, which matters if regular widths pinch.
The upper is mesh and synthetic, with stretch laces. The mesh lets air through, and the stretch laces adjust to your foot without you having to retie them tight.
Maintenance is simple. They are machine washable, and the materials are 100% vegan.
One thing to know: a mesh upper is built for airflow, not for keeping out cold or wet weather. If you need a shoe for rain or snow, this is not the one. A roomy fit also may not suit you if you like a snug, locked-in feel.
Amazon Essentials Women’s Walking Shoes
The Amazon Essentials Women’s Slip-On Knit Walking Shoe is a plain, everyday sneaker with one big selling point: you step into it and go. There are no laces to tie.
A heel tab gives you something to grab as you pull the shoe on. The stretch knit upper has a sock-like feel and is made to breathe, which keeps feet cooler on longer walks.
Inside, a molded memory foam insole shapes itself to your foot. Under that is a cushioned EVA sole (a light, springy foam). The heel has a cushioned liner meant to keep your foot from slipping.
The outsole is described as soft. That makes for a comfortable ride, but it’s best kept to everyday errands and indoor or pavement walking rather than rough or slick ground.
Knit also isn’t leather. It gives you less structure and support around the foot, so if you need a firm, stiff shoe for balance, a more structured style may suit you better.
Skechers Men’s Slip-Ins Garza Slip-On Shoes
This pair is made for men, and it is the one on the list that looks most like a dress shoe. The Skechers Slip-ins Garza has a smooth leather upper with a clean Oxford look, so it works for the office or a nice dinner as easily as a walk.
The main feature is hands-free entry. The laces are stretch laces, so you slide your foot in without bending down to tie anything or pulling the shoe on with your fingers.
A Heel Pillow keeps your foot from sliding around once you are in. That matters with any slip-on, because a shoe that shifts at the heel makes walking harder. The flexible traction outsole is there for grip and steadier footing while walking.
Inside, you get an Air-Cooled Memory Foam insole with Goga Mat arch support for cushioning. There is also a charcoal-infused insole meant to cut down on odors.
The trade-off is that this is a leather dress-style shoe. If you want something you can toss in the washing machine, or you need extra room for swollen feet or orthotics, look at a different pair on this list. Try them on and walk around a bit, because the heel should hold snugly without rubbing.
Skechers Women’s Work Squad Sr Food Service Shoe
This pair is the Skechers Work Squad, a women’s slip-on that was built as a food service work shoe. That background matters, because it means grip was a main concern in the design.
The outsole is slip-resistant and rated for wet, dry, and oily surfaces. That makes it a sensible pick for kitchens, tile floors, and rainy parking lots. Good traction is a big part of staying safe and balanced while walking.
Putting them on is simple. They slip on, and the stretch laces stay tied, so you don’t have to bend down to fuss with a bow.
Inside is a Memory Foam cushioned insole. The fit is relaxed, with roomy space at the toe and forefoot. The upper is a flat knit and synthetic material treated with 3M Scotchgard to repel water.
They also have an Electrical Hazard safe design, tested to ASTM-F2892. Most people walking for exercise won’t need that, but it’s there.
The trade-off is that this is a work shoe first. If you want a dressier look or a shoe you can toss in the wash, this may not be the one. A roomy fit also means getting your size right matters, so your foot doesn’t slide around as you walk.
FitVille Diabetic Slip-On Shoes
The FitVille Diabetic Shoes for Men are a slip-on made for wide feet, including feet that swell. The toe box comes in wide and extra wide, so there is room where many shoes squeeze.
The inside is seamless. That matters for diabetic shoes, because stitching that rubs can cause irritation, and people with neuropathy may not feel a sore spot forming. Soft foam padding also helps reduce pressure and shock from the outside.
Instead of laces, you get a wide adjustable strap across the top. You open it all the way to slip your foot in, then tighten it to the fit you want. That is handy if bending down to tie shoes is a chore, or if your feet are a bit bigger by evening.
The sole is a high rebound EVA, which gives stable support and takes some of the shock out of each step. The bottom has a slip resistant pattern for grip. The inner material is breathable, which helps keep your feet dry and cool.
The trade-off is that a slip-on with a strap is a looser style of fit than a snug lace-up. If you want your foot held very firmly, or you have a narrow foot, these may not suit you. They are built for people who need room.
Bruno Marc Men’s Casual Slip-On Loafers
These are men’s slip-on loafers with a classic round-toe look and simple stitching. They go with jeans, shorts, or casual trousers, so they work for errands as easily as a dinner out.
The upper is a stretchy knit with a soft lining, made to keep feet cool and dry. The stretch also gives a bit of room, which can help if your feet are on the wider side.
Inside is a soft insole that wicks away moisture, sitting on a cushioned foam midsole. That gives gentle support underfoot for everyday walking.
Each shoe weighs 6.1 ounces, and the outsole is flexible and durable. That makes them easy to wear for long walks, travel, and daily errands.
A few things to know. If you have wider feet or like a relaxed fit, the maker suggests going up half a size. There is no strap or buckle to hold your foot in place, so they are not the best pick if you need a firm, adjustable fit around the ankle or want heavy support.
If you want a plain, easy-to-slip-on shoe for daily walking, they do the job without any fuss.
Propét Men’s LifeWalker Diabetic Shoe
The Propét Life Walker Strap is a men’s walking shoe built around comfort and easy fastening. It carries Medicare/HCPCS code A5500, which means it is classed as a diabetic shoe.
The collar and tongue are padded, and there is a contoured heel stabilizer built in. That helps hold your heel steady as you walk.
Instead of laces, it has a dual strap hook-and-loop closure (the Velcro kind). You can adjust each strap to the fit you want, and you never have to bend down to tie a bow.
Inside, there is a removable cushioned orthotic and an EVA midsole (a foam layer) with arch support. If you wear your own custom insoles, you can take the cushioned one out and put yours in.
The shoe also has a rocker profile, meaning the sole curves a little so your foot rolls forward from heel to toe. Some people like that feeling right away. Others need a few days to get used to it, so wear them around the house first.
One thing to know: this is a men’s shoe, so it is not the one for the woman in your life. If you are looking for diabetic shoe coverage through Medicare, the code is a good start. Your doctor and your plan still decide what qualifies.
New Balance Men’s 577 V1 Hook and Loop Shoe
New Balance Women’s 577 V1 Lace-Up Shoe
This is another shoe that lacks a fancy name but is a smart buy nonetheless. It was manufactured right here in the USA for those of you who like that sort of thing.
It has a hook-and-loop design that makes it easy to slip the shoes on and off as you see fit but keeps them firmly on your feet when you’re on the move.
The ideal customer for a pair of shoes like this is a senior man who still enjoys a bit of physical activity or who spends plenty of time standing up on the job. It has a slightly wider design than average.
This makes them easier to put on but can reduce their reliability if you have particularly narrow feet.
New Balance implemented their patented ABZORB technology to reduce shock impact while on the move. You’ll feel less fatigued after walking for hours or even after enjoy an intense job. Overall, it’s a very high-quality shoe on the inside and out.
Dr. Scholl’s Men’s Brisk Dual Strap Sneaker
It wouldn’t be right to end this list without mentioning something from the great Dr. Scholls. Chances are, you’re already familiar with the name and the brand.
This pair of shoes is one more addition to a line of well-made products that are often designed with older adults in mind.
This shoe focuses on comfort and durability. It’s thick and somehow flexible at the same time. It has a stacked heel with gel on the inside that absorbs shock well. The downside is that the added height may feel awkward to some people.
Are Memory Foam Insoles Good for Your Feet?
Meredith Chandler, OTR/L, an occupational therapist, says that memory foam insoles can be a great option if you are looking for comfort and better balance.
The right memory foam insoles provide excellent shock absorption, breathability, and good arch and heel support. They should be of good quality and fit comfortably in the shoe.
On the other hand, the wrong memory foam insoles can make shoes feel too tight, make feet hot and sweaty, and increase the risk of an ankle injury.
In short, memory foam insoles can be a good option if they are chosen and worn to fit your own needs and daily routine.
How Often Should You Replace Your Walking Shoes?
Replace your walking shoes when they show signs they are worn out.
Pay attention to pain in your feet, back, hips, or legs, shoes that have become a tripping hazard, and shoes that are doing more harm than good for fall prevention.
How fast shoes wear out depends on how much you walk, the shoe, and the surfaces you walk on. Replace them when the tread is smooth, the heel is worn down, or they stop feeling supportive. A podiatrist can help you judge.
Choose shoes that fit your needs and stay comfortable for a long time.
Infographic: Should Seniors Use Memory Foam Insoles in Walking Shoes?
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We’ve looked at ten of the best walking shoes for seniors. Some of these shoes are designed just for seniors, and others happen to fit the bill. We believe you’ll be happy with any of these shoes regardless of style or brand. More importantly, we believe you’ll be safe and comfortable.
