I’m sure many of us could do more to keep healthy, but 48% of Americans already get enough aerobic activity from walking. In fact, walking is their most popular physical activity.
Since many of us walk on hard surfaces, getting the best shoes for walking on concrete is critical to avoid injuries.
For the best of the best woman’s walking shoes check out Skechers D’Lites and for men’s footwear Rockport Eureka Walking Shoe.
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For the complete list of our pick of the best shoes for walking on concrete, check these out:
For women…
- Skechers Women’s D’Lites
- Women’s Walking Shoes Sock Sneakers
- Clarks Women’s May Marigold Slip-On Loafer
For men…
- Rockport Men’s Eureka Walking Shoe
- Timberland PRO Men’s Powertrain Sport Alloy
- Carhartt Men’s CMF6366 6-Inch Composite Toe Boot
Our Six Best Shoes for Walking on Concrete
After our own experience and a thorough evaluation of products’ specifications and customer feedback, here are our six best shoes for walking on hard surfaces like concrete.
1. Skechers Women’s D’Lites – Best Overall
This pair provides the cushioning and comfort needed to walk on concrete all day. In particular, the insole is made of air-cooled memory foam and a 1 ¼ inch heel to release the pressure. It also comes in a wide version if you need extra space.
Skechers have been around since 1992 and this model since 2015. Their reputation is well established now and the name Skechers is synonymous with quality and affordable prices.
This model has real leather uppers, their signature memory foam insole, padded collar and tongue with solid ankle support for extra comfort. The super shock absorption is thanks to a large firm midsole.
I love this shoe for durability, comfort and it’s my kind of look. I like black although the D’Lites are delightful with plenty of color combinations to choose from.
When it comes to style, one doesn’t fit all, and I appreciate that these shoes come in many classic but elegant designs. Plus, they’re budget-friendly, a nice surprise.
A similar Skechers woman’s shoe model, the slip-on mule sneaker also topped our review of the best shoes for overweight walkers.
Pros:
- Wide design.
- Great value.
- Available in 26 colors.
- Flexible sole.
- Made of leather and breathable mesh.
- Comfortable memory foam insoles.
- We and other reviewers appreciate the ankle support.
Cons:
- Insoles can’t be removed although I managed to rip them out.
- Shoes are smaller than expected.
- The wide version seems too large for some users.
2. DOUSSPRT Women’s Walking Shoes Slip-on Sock Sneakers – Best for Value
I was first concerned that I’d need to give up style for comfort, but these shoes combine both aspects.
They fit like a sock, surround the ankle for proper support and include a built-in air cushion to absorb shocks. Yes, the uppers are designed more like a glove that embraces your foot.
The sole is chunky and looks heavy but the outsole is a durable form of EVA (a polymer material) that has air pockets, providing not only a great deal of cushioning but also means the overall shoe is surprisingly light.
An all-round shoe but with quite a high sole I would feel a little precarious running any distance in them otherwise great for long term standing and walking on hard surfaces.
For those of you needing choice, they come in 10 vibrant colors. Plus, they’re one of the most economical options – bonus!
Pros:
- Breathable mesh material.
- Non-slippery.
- Budget-friendly.
- Robust rubber sole.
- Made for standing around all day on hard surfaces.
- Easy to put on and take off.
- Good toe space.
Cons:
- Non-waterproof uppers.
- Some users didn’t find them comfortable enough for very long walks.
3. Clarks Women’s May Marigold Slip-On Loafer – Best Dressed-Up Shoes for Women
In my opinion, sports shoes combined with skirts or cute outfits can simply ruin the style. If you’re a fashionista also looking for comfort, this one could be an option.
It’s made of soft leather of various colors to match most outfits. The pair even comes with low heels—less than 2 inches—in case you aim for long-looking legs. Yet, the breathable OrthoLite material and the heel pad of this pair should keep you walking for hours.
Pros:
- Made with leather.
- Four colors available.
- Low heel.
- Comfortable and breathable insole.
- Sturdy thermoplastic rubber outsole.
- Removable insole.
- Users love that they’re non-slippery.
Cons:
- Bigger than true-size.
- The heel could be sturdier as it tends to crack.
1. Rockport Men’s Eureka Walking Shoe – Best Dressed-Up Shoes for Men
This pair should help you combine style with stability plus the comfort it accords with its’ generous padding.
Rockport beginning operation in 1971 has managed to combine the casual outward appearance of the men’s shoe with all the technical aspects of an athletic shoe.
The style of stitching (San Crispino) where the uppers fold around the insole and then is stitched twice through them (imagine a classic moccasin) should extra stability in the heel as well as a longer lasting construction.
The footbed is made with latex, and users love the flexibility and comfort this provides. Reviewers also appreciate the durability and thickness of the outer sole. The grip appears good enough for both ice and snow.
Pros:
- Three classic colors.
- Dressed-up style.
- Good grip.
- Designed to absorb impact.
- Thick rubber sole for better durability.
- Latex padding.
Cons:
- Laces tend to come off easily.
- Some reviewers hoped it was made with real leather.
2. Timberland Pro Men’s Powertrain Sport Alloy – Best for Durability
This pair is designed for both outdoor and indoor use. It also has a high-ankle design and an asymmetrical shoe cap for more comfort.
Of note is how it protects against electrical hazards, oil and heat. These shoes can even redistribute the impact energy to the foot for added support.
My favorite feature? The material is antimicrobial to avoid smelly shoes and feet!
Pros:
- Meets U.S and Canadian safety standards.
- Protects against electrical hazards.
- Heat-resistant up to 248 degrees Fahrenheit.
- Reduced risk of scratching surfaces.
- Built-in anti-fatigue technology within the soles.
- Classic and elegant style.
- Wide sizes available.
- Lightweight—1.2 pounds (size 9).
Cons:
- Synthetic fabric—not fully waterproof.
- The shoes can wear out faster than expected when bent.
3. Carhartt Men’s CMF6366 6 Inch Composite Toe Boot – Best for Outdoor Work
Tough work conditions make long-lasting shoes break down within weeks. If you need a pair that’ll endure tough outdoor work and hard surfaces, this pair should be a smart investment. In particular, the boot’s shape protects the ankle, providing great stability.
This pair creates warmth and is water-resistant, which can be a great advantage in the winter. Plus, the Fast-Dry technology also keeps the moisture away.
Pros:
- Padded and shock-absorbing insole.
- Boots made to last.
- OrthoLite and padded insole.
- Water-resistant leather.
- Protects the ankle.
- FastDry technology in the lining.
- Oil, electrical, chemical, water and slip-resistant.
Cons:
- Unsurprisingly users report that they’re heavier than other shoes.
- Can take a few days to break them in.
- More expensive than the other options.
Choosing the Best Shoes for Walking on Concrete
Walking on concrete or another hard surface generally increases the shock at impact. Focusing on the following essential features should prevent foot pain and soreness:
Styles
The first element to consider is how and where you’ll use the shoes and whether they’ll fit your “look”.
Casual Style
For casual use, to stroll outdoors or to wear them at home, sports shoes can be a good fit. They come in different designs and colors and are also versatile.
Modern and Fashionable
When fashion is important to you, or if you’re planning on wearing them at work, choose one made with leather, showcasing a more dressed-up style. Some female versions can even include low heels.
Boots
Finally, boots are often aimed at men and rough working conditions, and they’re generally the most durable and ankle-protective type.
Boots are also ideal for cold or wet weather conditions but can be too warm during hot summer days.
Shoe Material
Material can differ from one pair to another, each presenting distinct features:
- Leather: It typically gives the shoe a more classic look and can be water-resistant—but not waterproof – unless treated.
- Mesh fabric: This breathable material is great in summer as it prevents moisture from building up. It’s a light material, but on rainy days, your feet will remain damp all day.
- Combination: Some shoes include both leather and fabric to combine style and good airflow.
Outsole
The outsole is a critical element of shoes when it comes to durability and efficiency.
- Sturdy rubber for wear and tear: Shoes tend to wear out faster when walking on concrete floors. For this reason, most models are made of sturdy rubber.
- Slip-resistance: This feature may be a “must-have” when walking on wet ground.
- Oil and chemical resistance: Some models can withstand oil or chemical contact. A few pairs can also protect against electrical hazards.
- Shock absorbance: Shoes should be able to absorb shocks from hard surfaces. Some models can redistribute this energy to support the feet.
Comfort
No matter how technologically advanced my shoes are, if they aren’t comfortable, I likely leave them in the closet.
- All-round padding: Padding should be included in both the midsole and insole.
- Raised heel: You’ll also want a slightly raised heel, even in men’s models. This feature releases some of the pressure put on the back of your foot.
- Spacious toe box: It should be large enough to avoid squeezing on the frontal part of your feet.
- Removable insole: Being able to remove the insole could allow you to place a medical insert or replace it when it wears out.
Keep on Walking!
The best shoes for walking on concrete or other hard surfaces for any length of time are the ones that’ll provide the most comfort while being durable.
My favorite model is Skechers Women’s D’Lites. I love the air-cooled memory foam insoles to keep your feet comfortable and pain-free. Plus, this pair is versatile, comes in many colors, and combines leather with synthetic material.
The Rockport Men’s Eureka Walking Shoe is our favorite pair for men. While it’s a dressed-up style, it’s sturdy and is designed to absorb impacts.
We have covered more on athletic shoes, especially for those with foot problems like Achilles Tendinitis and Plantar Fasciitis.
