Who Makes the Best Walking Shoes for Seniors?

According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), falls are a leading cause of injury among older adults, and proper footwear is a critical component of fall prevention. Finding a reliable brand that provides adequate support and stability is essential for seniors looking to stay active and independent. So, who makes the best walking shoes for seniors?

Quick Summary

Several brands, including New Balance, Skechers, and Orthofeet, are top contenders for crafting the best walking shoes for seniors, offering crucial features like motion control, enhanced cushioning, and hands-free options.

Key Points

• New Balance excels in stability: The brand is highly regarded for its walking shoes that feature motion control and stability technologies like ROLLBAR, offering excellent support for seniors.

• Skechers offers hands-free convenience: Skechers stands out with its Slip-ins technology, providing easy, hands-free wear combined with maximum cushioning for seniors with dexterity challenges.

• Orthofeet provides orthopedic solutions: This brand specializes in therapeutic shoes with customizable orthotic insoles, seam-free interiors, and extra-wide fits to address specific foot conditions.

• Brooks is great for motion control: The Brooks Adrenaline GTS series is a popular choice for its GuideRail support, which helps reduce excess motion and is beneficial for seniors who overpronate.

• Look for cushioning and non-slip features: Regardless of brand, the best shoes prioritize plush cushioning for impact absorption and non-slip rubber outsoles for crucial traction and fall prevention.

• Consider ease of use: Seniors with arthritis or other issues benefit from easy closures like Velcro or slip-on designs over traditional laces.

Key Features of a Great Walking Shoe for Seniors

When evaluating who makes the best walking shoes for seniors, it's not about a single brand but rather a combination of features that cater to the specific needs of aging feet. These requirements often include enhanced stability, motion control, ample cushioning, and ease of wear to prevent discomfort and reduce the risk of falls.

Features to look for:

• Superior Cushioning: A plush, responsive midsole is crucial for absorbing impact and reducing stress on joints. Look for materials like Fresh Foam (New Balance) or Goga Max (Skechers) for maximum comfort.
• Enhanced Stability and Support: As feet change with age, stability becomes paramount. Features such as a reinforced heel counter, a sturdy outsole, and integrated support systems (like New Balance's Rollbar) help keep the foot and ankle properly aligned.
• Wide and Accommodating Fit: Many seniors experience foot swelling, bunions, or other foot issues. Brands that offer multiple width options and a roomy toe box are ideal for ensuring a comfortable, pressure-free fit.
• Easy-to-Use Closures: Dexterity issues like arthritis can make traditional laces difficult. Velcro straps, elastic slip-ons, or hands-free designs are excellent alternatives that make putting on and taking off shoes a breeze.
• Non-Slip Outsoles: Superior traction is a non-negotiable safety feature, especially on wet or uneven surfaces. A durable rubber outsole with good tread pattern minimizes the risk of slipping.

Top Brands in Focus

Several brands consistently earn high marks for their senior-friendly walking shoes. Let's delve into some of the top contenders based on features and user feedback.

New Balance

New Balance is a perennial favorite for its walking shoe offerings, especially models designed for motion control and stability. The New Balance 928v3 is a standout model, featuring ABZORB cushioning and ROLLBAR technology to reduce impact and enhance stability. For those seeking great value, the Fresh Foam 680v8 offers a comfortable, lightweight ride at a more accessible price point.

Skechers

Skechers has innovated with its Hands-Free Slip-ins technology, making them an excellent choice for seniors with mobility or dexterity challenges. The Skechers Slip-ins Go-Walk and GOwalk 7 offer a hands-free design combined with plush cushioning and stable support. Their Arch Fit line also provides podiatrist-designed arch support, ideal for those needing targeted foot health benefits.

Orthofeet

Orthofeet specializes in therapeutic footwear designed for specific foot conditions, including diabetes, arthritis, and bunions. The Orthofeet Amalya is a great example, with a seam-free interior to prevent irritation and a mild-rocker outsole that eases walking impact. The brand is known for its custom orthotic insoles and wide-fitting options.

Brooks

Brooks offers several models known for their superior stability and support. The Brooks Adrenaline GTS 24 uses GuideRail support technology to reduce excess motion, making it a reliable option for seniors who overpronate. The Brooks Addiction Walker is another solid choice for strong support and a slip-resistant sole.

Comparison Table: Top Walking Shoes for Seniors

Feature	New Balance 928v3	Skechers Slip-ins Go-Walk	Orthofeet Amalya	Brooks Adrenaline GTS 24
Key Benefit	Motion Control & Stability	Hands-Free Wear & Cushioning	Orthopedic Comfort	Stability & Motion Control
Closure	Traditional Laces	Slip-on (Laced Look)	Slip-on with Adjustable Strap	Traditional Laces
Cushioning	ABZORB (Moderate)	Maximum (Plush)	Ortho-Cushion (Therapeutic)	Nitrogen-Infused Foam (Moderate)
Sizing	Multiple Widths (Incl. Wide)	Standard Widths	Wide & Extra-Wide	Multiple Widths (Incl. Wide)
Best For	All-day comfort and motion control	Dexterity issues & plush comfort	Specific foot conditions & pain relief	Overpronation and stability
Outsole	Durable Rubber	Stable Foam Base	Mild-Rocker & Slip-Resistant	Durable Rubber

How to Choose the Right Shoe

Selecting the perfect shoe is a personal journey. Consider what your primary needs are. If joint pain is your main concern, a shoe with maximum cushioning like the Skechers Slip-ins might be best. If stability is paramount, consider the New Balance 928v3 or Brooks Adrenaline GTS 24. For those with specific medical conditions, consulting with a podiatrist and looking at therapeutic brands like Orthofeet is wise. Always try shoes on in the late afternoon, when your feet are at their largest, and wear the socks you plan to walk in.

The Importance of Fit and Function

Beyond brand names, it's the specific fit and function that will truly determine the "best" shoe for an individual. Foot shape changes over time, often widening, so getting a proper fitting is vital. A good shoe should feel comfortable from the start—there is no need for a “break-in” period. The right shoe protects your feet, supports your body, and enables you to maintain an active lifestyle with confidence, reducing the risk of falls and related injuries.

Conclusion

While there is no single answer to who makes the best walking shoes for seniors, brands like New Balance, Skechers, Orthofeet, and Brooks are consistently praised for their quality, support, and safety features. The best option depends on individual needs, with New Balance excelling in motion control, Skechers in hands-free convenience, Orthofeet in therapeutic comfort, and Brooks in superior stability. By focusing on key features such as excellent cushioning, sturdy support, and proper fit, seniors can find the perfect footwear to ensure comfortable and confident walking for years to come.

What to Consider When Buying Walking Shoes

• Visit a Specialty Store: For the best fit, visit a specialty shoe store where staff can measure your feet and analyze your gait.
• Prioritize Safety: Always check for slip-resistant outsoles, as this is a critical safety feature.
• Try Before You Buy: Don't rely solely on online reviews. Always try on a pair and walk around to ensure a comfortable fit.
• Check for Return Policies: If purchasing online, ensure there is a flexible return policy in case the shoes are not the right fit.

Read more about the APMA seal of acceptance for promoting foot health

What to Avoid in Walking Shoes

• Lack of Arch Support: Poor arch support can lead to foot pain and instability.
• Slippery Soles: Avoid smooth, plastic-based soles that offer poor traction.
• Too Tight Fit: Shoes that are too tight or narrow can cause foot pain, bunions, and circulation issues.
• Heavily Worn-Out Shoes: Shoes lose their cushioning and support over time and should be replaced regularly.

Frequently Asked Questions

What key features should seniors prioritize when buying walking shoes?

Seniors should prioritize features such as superior cushioning for impact absorption, enhanced stability with a supportive heel and arch, a wide and roomy toe box, easy-to-use closures like Velcro or slip-ons, and a non-slip rubber outsole for safety.

Are orthopedic shoes necessary for all seniors?

Orthopedic shoes are not necessary for all seniors, but they can be highly beneficial for those with specific foot conditions such as diabetes, arthritis, or bunions. Brands like Orthofeet specialize in therapeutic footwear with custom insoles and wide fits.

How can I find the right shoe width for aging feet?

As feet can widen with age, it is crucial to measure your feet and consider shoes that offer multiple width options, such as wide or extra-wide. Visiting a specialty shoe store for a professional fitting can ensure you get the most comfortable and correct size.

What is the benefit of a hands-free slip-on shoe for seniors?

Hands-free slip-on shoes, such as those from Skechers, eliminate the need for bending over to tie laces, which is a major convenience for seniors with arthritis, back issues, or other mobility challenges.

Why is a non-slip sole important for a senior's walking shoe?

A non-slip sole with good tread is a critical safety feature that provides better traction on various surfaces, especially wet or uneven ones. This significantly reduces the risk of slips and falls, which are a major concern for older adults.

How often should a senior replace their walking shoes?

Walking shoes should be replaced regularly, typically every 300 to 500 miles or about every 6 to 12 months, depending on use. Over time, the cushioning and support break down, compromising comfort and stability.

Can seniors with specific medical conditions find appropriate shoes?

Yes, many brands specialize in or offer shoes designed for specific medical needs. Orthofeet, for instance, has shoes approved for diabetic wear. Consulting with a podiatrist is recommended for personalized advice.