Including Dr. Scholl’s sneakers, Teva sandals, and Ugg clogs
Podiatrist-Approved Spring Walking Shoes
- Rocker Soles: Hoka Clifton 9 Sneakers, $166
- Best for Plantar Fasciitis: Nortiv 8 ActiveFloat Sneakers, $54 (orig. $60)
- $35 Loafer-Sneaker Hybrid: Clarks Breeze Emily Loafers, $35 (orig. $70)
- Ideal for Recovery: Oofos Oomy Stride Sneakers, $120 (orig. $150)
- Easy On-and-Off: Ugg Goldenstar Clogs, $100 (orig. $130)
- Multiple Adjustable Straps: Teva Tirra Sandals, $65 (orig. $85)
- Over 25 Colors: Dr. Scholl’s Time Off Sneakers, $75 (orig. $110)
- Sporty Vibe: Skechers On-the-Go 600 Brilliancy Sport Sandals, $50
I’m on a mission to up my step count this spring. But first, I need some comfortable walking shoes.
After breaking my ankle a decade ago, my shoedrobe drastically changed from sky-high heels to more comfortable styles like sneakers and supportive flats. I was curious about the best walking shoes for spring, so I reached out to board-certified podiatrists Dr. Nicole Graf and Dr. Saylee Tulpule for their suggestions on styles to wear on my daily walks — and which pairs to avoid. “If you can roll up your shoe like a burrito and fit it into your pocket, it’s not supportive enough,” says Dr. Graf, who specifically cautions against wearing flat shoes like unsupportive slip-ons, thin-soled sandals, and heavy platforms.
The podiatrists’ go-to spring walking shoes from brands like Hoka, Ugg, Teva, and Dr. Scholl’s, start at $35 on Amazon.
Related: My Mom's Flat, Wide Feet Always Feel Supported in These Spring Shoes — They Help Her Log 10,000+ Steps Without Pain
Hoka Clifton 9 Sneakers
$166 at Amazon
Dr. Graf calls these Hoka sneakers “a solid pick for anyone who’s looking for that additional plush cushioning without a heavy weight feel.” The rocker-style sole helps “create a smoother walking stride,” so they’re perfect for “longer spring walks.”
Nortiv 8 ActiveFloat Sneakers
$60 $54 at Amazon
These sneakers have high-rebound EVA midsoles to provide “cushioning and support,” making them “an excellent choice for managing plantar fasciitis,” according to Dr. Tulpule. Plus, the woven mesh design makes them comfortable on warmer spring days. They come in sizes 6–11 with regular and wide widths available.
What to Look For
When it comes to shopping for spring walking shoes, Dr. Tulpule has three recommendations:
- Breathable materials: Look for mesh or knit uppers, which can “keep feet cool during warmer months,” she says.
- Supportive midsole with good cushioning: “It’s especially important for walking, exercise, or prolonged standing at work,” she advises.
- Stable and firm base: According to Dr. Tulpule, this can help protect the plantar fascia and midfoot.
Clarks Breeze Emily Loafers
$70 $35 at Amazon
Are they loafers, slip-ons, or sneakers? Good news — they’re all three. They’re one of Dr. Graf’s top picks because they’re “not overly bulky” and can be paired with “casual to even slightly dressier spring outfits.”
Oofos Oomy Stride Sneakers
$150 $120 at Amazon
Multiple podiatrists I spoke with are fans of Oofos styles — like these sneakers, which have a “rocker-like feel that reduces stress on joints,” Dr. Tulpule says. Dr. Graf agrees, emphasizing the “extra cushioning and impact shock absorption” that make the shoes great for “casual walks, errands, or days whenever your feet just feel fatigued.”
Related: Shoppers Who Have Bunions Swear by These Memory Foam Sneakers with a 'High-End' Look — They're on Sale for Under $40
How to Reduce Irritation
If you’re noticing lots of blisters, it might be the shoes you chose to wear in hotter temperatures. “For warmer weather specifically, I’d avoid shoes that trap heat or cause excessive friction because that can lead to blisters, swelling, and irritation,” says Dr. Graf.
Ugg Goldenstar Clogs
$130 $100 at Amazon
“These are perfect for warmer weather because they’re going to give you extra support and coverage — more so than a typical flat sandal,” says Dr. Graf. She also points out the clogs’ “cushioned footbeds” and “more substantial outsoles.” They come in eight colors and sizes 5–12.
Teva Tirra Sandals
$85 $65 at Amazon
These sandals have multiple adjustable straps that “allow for a more secure fit,” while the cushioning and support “make them a great choice for travel, walking, or outdoor activities,” Dr. Tulpule says. Choose from 12 color combinations and sizes 5–14.
Support, Support, Support
The best spring walking shoes offer extreme support and stability. “Avoid shoes that are flat, flimsy, and lack support, which can lead to plantar fasciitis symptoms and increased foot fatigue,” advises Dr. Tulpule, especially cautioning against “extremely flexible shoes” like ballet flats or flip-flops.
Dr. Scholl’s Time Off Sneakers
$110 $75 at Amazon
“These stylish, easy-to-wear tennis shoes pair well with multiple outfits, jeans, and dresses,” Dr. Graf says. She points out that they have “more cushioning than many trend-focused sneakers,” making them the perfect “fashion meets comfort” option for spring walks.
Skechers On-the-Go 600 Brilliancy Sport Sandals
$50 at Amazon
For days when you need to walk, but don’t necessarily have to reach 10,000 steps, Dr. Tulpule recommends these sporty sandals. “They’re lightweight and cushioned, making them best for shorter walking days,” she says. They’re available in six colors and sizes 5–12.
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