Walking is one of the most effective and accessible ways for older adults to stay active and independent—but only with the right shoes on their feet!
Footwear plays a bigger role than many realize. The right pair can improve mobility, prevent falls, and make daily movement more enjoyable and pain-free.
Supportive options like the New Balance 928v3, HOKA Bondi SR, and Brooks Addiction Walker are built for comfort and stability. Brands like Propet and Skechers offer thoughtful designs for ease of use and orthopedic support.
From extra cushioning to slip-resistant soles, the best walking shoes help older adults feel steady, secure, and confident every step of the way.
Our feet naturally change as we age, and conditions like arthritis, bunions, and balance issues can make it harder to find supportive, well-fitting shoes. Choosing the best walking shoes is about more than comfort—it’s a matter of safety, stability, and quality of life.
Why Walking Is So Important for Seniors
Walking is a simple, low-impact activity with powerful benefits for seniors. It improves cardiovascular health, strengthens muscles, maintains joint flexibility, and supports coordination and balance—all essential to preventing falls and staying mobile.
Physical Health Benefits
Just 30 minutes of walking a day can help lower blood pressure, reduce the risk of heart disease and diabetes, improve circulation, and support a healthy weight. For older adults, it also helps preserve bone density and muscle mass, reducing the risk of injury from falls.
Mental & Emotional Wellness
Walking can also improve sleep, reduce anxiety, and boost mood. It encourages social connection, whether it’s walking with a friend, participating in a community group, or simply engaging with nature.
Regular movement supports brain function and helps maintain independence.
Fall Prevention
Perhaps most importantly, walking builds strength and balance—two key components in fall prevention. With the right pair of shoes, seniors can move confidently on a variety of surfaces, both indoors and out.
Key Features to Look For in Walking Shoes
The best walking shoes for seniors support comfort and stability.
Comfort & Cushioning
Comfort is a non-negotiable. Walking shoes should feel good from the moment you put them on. Features that enhance comfort include:
- Memory foam or gel inserts to contour the foot
- Shock-absorbing midsoles to protect joints
- Padded collars & tongues to prevent irritation
Shoes that feel soft yet supportive can help reduce fatigue and make daily movement more enjoyable.
Proper Fit & Sizing
Improperly fitted shoes can lead to discomfort, instability, and even long-term foot damage. Many seniors need options that accommodate swelling, foot shape changes, or conditions like bunions and arthritis.
Look for:
- Wide or extra-wide sizing
- Spacious toe boxes to reduce pressure on the front of the foot
- Adjustable closures like velcro or elastic laces for ease and flexibility
Support & Stability
Supportive shoes help align the foot and leg while reducing fall risk. Look for:
- Built-in arch support for posture & alignment
- Non-slip rubber soles to grip a variety of surfaces
- Firm heel counters to keep the foot secure & steady
Shoes that combine flexibility with stability give seniors the freedom to move while staying safe.
Top Walking Shoes for Seniors
The perfect walking shoe fit is unique to you or your loved one, often requiring some trial and error. But to help you stride in comfort, we’ve rounded up a few top recommendations to get you started!
New Balance 928v3
Ideal for everyday walking, this New Balance shoe can offer excellent cushioning and stability features like:
- ABZORB midsole for impact absorption
- Rollbar technology for added motion control
- Multiple width options for a customized fit
HOKA Bondi SR
With its plush design and slip-resistant sole, the Bondi SR is a comfortable choice for both indoor and outdoor wear.
- Full EVA midsole for superior cushioning
- High-traction outsole for stability
- Lightweight design with extra ankle support
Brooks Addiction Walker
Built for support and motion control, the Brooks Addiction Walker shoe is excellent for overpronation or flat feet.
- Diagonal Rollbar for alignment & arch support
- Padded interior for all-day comfort
- Slip-resistant sole for better traction
Propet Stability Walker
The Propet Stability Walker is a Medicare-approved shoe designed with orthopedic comfort in mind.
- Removable insole with arch support
- Leather upper for structure & breathability
- Wide sizing for foot conditions like bunions or diabetes
Skechers GOwalk 7
Slip-on convenience meets all-day cushioning in this easygoing walking shoe from Skechers.
- Dual-density outsole for stability
- Ultra Go cushioning for soft steps
- Elastic stretch for a snug yet flexible fit
Tips for Trying on Shoes
Before purchasing, make sure the shoes you choose feel good on your feet. Follow these quick tips:
- Shop later in the day when feet are slightly swollen for a true-to-size fit
- Bring your walking socks to see how the shoe fits with your typical gear
- Walk around the store or your home to test comfort & grip
Good walking shoes should feel supportive without needing a “break-in” period.
Walking Safely Starts with the Right Environment
While footwear plays a major role in fall prevention, having access to safe walking spaces and wellness-focused programming is equally important.
Whether it’s a quiet loop around a landscaped courtyard or a dedicated indoor walking path, seniors are more likely to stay active when they feel confident and supported in their environment.
Access to regular movement also supports stronger recovery, better balance, and increased independence in daily life. When combined with a culture of wellness, walking becomes more than an activity—it becomes a lifestyle.
Step Into a Safer, Stronger Lifestyle
The right walking shoes empower older adults to move freely, reduce fall risk, and enjoy the benefits of an active lifestyle. The most successful outcomes come when supportive footwear is paired with a strong focus on daily movement, balance training, and community connection.
At All American Assisted Living at Hillsborough, we designed the Stronger Living program with that in mind. Residents receive personalized wellness plans and one-on-one support from trained professionals who help improve strength, flexibility, and mobility.
Through customized therapy, fitness classes, and regular progress tracking, seniors are empowered to take confident steps toward improved health, whether in the gym, on walking paths, or during everyday routines.
Schedule a tour to learn how we support a safer, more active lifestyle—starting from the ground up.
