Best Walking Shoes for Seniors & Elderly People

Last Updated on June 7, 2025 by Andy Walker

Just because you are aging does not mean that you are ready to give up your attractive footwear. There is a fine line between comfort and aesthetics, and sometimes it seems like all of the best walking for older men and women are completely devoid of style.

While most older people would admit that their needs differ from younger buyers when it comes to footwear, it is still important to find shoes that tick all the boxes.

It’s key to find shoes, which boast all of the key features that ensure comfort and support but which also are appealing.

Our top recommendation is the Skechers Men’s GOwalk Max – Privy Slip-On Walking Shoe because it is very comfortable and has a slip-on design, is lightweight and breathable. Go to full review.

Whereas, the best shoes for elderly women is the Skechers Women’s Go Walk Joy Walking Shoe. It is lightweight, breathable mesh, slip-on, responsive cushioning. See full review.

See also: Our Buyer’s Guide for Walking Shoes for Elders

Summary of Best Walking Shoes for Elders

Here Are the Best Walking Shoes for Seniors:

Finding the right pair of walking shoes for seniors need not be as difficult as it might seem. There are many brands, which have specialized in supplying comfortable yet appealing footwear that accommodates the older walker’s unique needs. Here are our reviews.

1. Skechers Men’s GOwalk Max – Privy Slip-On Walking Shoe — Best Shoes for Elderly Men

The GOwalk Max – Privy from Skechers is an excellent alternative for senior men who value comfort, support, and effortless wear. Designed with a lightweight, breathable mesh upper, this slip-on walking shoe offers excellent airflow, helping to keep feet cool and dry even after hours of wear. The slip-on design eliminates the need for laces or straps, making them easy to put on and remove—especially convenient for seniors with mobility or dexterity concerns.

These shoes feature responsive 5GEN cushioning in the midsole and a Goga Mat Air Cooled insole, providing superior shock absorption and arch support. While the overall profile is low and casual, the padded heel collar adds extra comfort and protection for the ankle area. The outsole is made from high-traction synthetic material for confident footing, whether you’re walking indoors or out.

Although they don’t have adjustable straps like the Gil, their stretchy design provides a snug yet forgiving fit. Available in various neutral and bold colors, the GOwalk Max – Privy blends practicality with style, making it a great all-purpose option.

Specs

• Material: Breathable mesh fabric
• Sole: Synthetic with high-traction grip
• Size Range: 7–16 (including wide options)

Pros

• Extremely lightweight and breathable
• Excellent cushioning with Goga Mat and 5GEN midsole
• Easy slip-on design with no laces or fasteners
• Flexible fit adapts well to foot shape
• Good arch support for all-day wear

Cons

• Not leather—less formal look
• No strap adjustment (may not suit users who prefer a customizable fit)
• Sole is not ideal for neuropathy nerve pain if it is moderate to severe, but suitable for mild cases.

2. Skechers Women’s Go Walk Joy Walking Shoe — Best Shoes for Elderly Women

If you are looking for a very comfortable and lightweight walking shoe for elderly women, you should consider the Skechers Women’s GO Walk Joy Walking Shoe.

This shoe features a 100 percent mesh upper design that helps to keep your feet cozy and cool while you walk. Even after wearing this shoe for long, it still feels like you are not putting on any shoes.

It comes with an innovative 5GEN midsole technology that provides the wearer with more comfort. The technology also ensures full energy to your every step as well as optimal shock absorption responsive cushioning quality. These are also highly durable and long-lasting. It is available in sizes 5 to 13 wide and 18 different colors.

The mesh upper is also highly breathable and the shoe comes with a soft fabric lining and padded collar. Regardless of the terrain you walk on, no substance underneath the shoe will get to your feet. It features a flexible rubber outsole that helps your feet to conform to your natural gait.

With this pair of shoes, you do not have to worry about any sharp object penetrating your footwear. In addition to these great features, this shoe is also very attractive. It features an amazing look and great design.

Specs

• Material: N/A
• Sole: Synthetic sole
• Size: 5-13

Pros

• Comfortable and breathable
• Supportive and lightweight
• Attractive design
• Highly durable construction

Cons

• Doesn’t provide ankle support

3. New Balance Men’s 577 V1 Hook and Loop Walking Shoe

The New Balance Men’s 57 V1 Hook and Loop Walking Shoe is one of the best walking shoes for seniors. This shoe is very popular for its durability and comfort on the feet of the elderly.

For seniors that spend a lot of time on their feet, this is a great option to consider. This shoe comes with two Velcro straps that make it very easy to take off. This means you can bid farewell to the hassle of bending down to do up laces.

The shoe also offers a great amount of vent, thanks to the perforations in the forefoot area. This means your feet could still get fresh air even when locked up in the shoe. It also comes with a cushioning that makes the shoe very comfortable to wear.

This shoe is available in three different colors and a wide range of sizes, allowing you to choose a color that best suits your style and a size that fits perfectly.

It features a sporty looking design, which is pretty attractive. This shoe helps to minimize leg and foot fatigue, thanks to its midsole that was made with dense foam. The design of the midsole helps to minimize shock also.

The outsole of the shoe is constructed with durable and strong rubber, and it can handle even the harshest weather. It is also highly stable and secure even on uneven terrains.

This shoe also enhances good natural foot movement, thanks to its flexible groove pattern. You also do not have to worry about slipping off on wet or slippery surfaces, as it is slip-resistant. It has a removable sock liner, which means you can wear it with orthotics.

Specs

• Material: 100% Leather
• Sole: Rubber sole
• Size: 7 – 15 X-wide

Pros

• Easy enclose system
• Great arch support
• Ideal for everyday use
• Comfortable and durable

Cons

• Tongue short and bulky

4. Clarks Women’s Sillian Bella Mary Jane Flat

The Women’s Sillian Bella Mary Jane Flat from Clarks is one of the most comfortable walking shoes for elderly women. With the comfort this shoe provides, you will not feel that you are putting on shoes, even after walking for a long time. It comes with a sporty look and slim design.

This shoe is available in a variety of colors, including a highly fashionable blue denim effect that is great for stylish seniors. The outsole of the shoe is made with rubber, and it provides a lot of cushioning and support. In addition to being very comfortable, the shoe is super lightweight. It also features an ortholite footbed.

Clarks cushioned this show all through, and it is integrated with the Clarks Cloud stepper technology. This shoe is very easy to slip in and out, thanks to its simple strap closure. This feature also helps to keep the shoe secured in place to prevent it from slipping off your foot.

It is breathable and it allows for flexible movement, thanks to its stretch fabric panels. This synthetic mesh shoe can also handle any weather, and it will continue to retain its stylish look and comfortable feel.

Specs

• Material: 100% Synthetic
• Sole: Rubber
• Size: 5-12

Pros

• Super lightweight
• Stretchy and comfortable
• Ortholite footbed
• Highly breathable and flexible

Cons

• Narrow fit

5. Propet Men’s LifeWalker Strap Walking Shoe

The last on our list is the Men’s LifeWalker Strap Walking Shoe from Propet. Propet has been making shoes since 1985, and making comfortable walking shoes is one of the strong points of this brand.

This is one of the best shoes for seniors who suffer foot, hip, and ankle pain. This shoe features an athletic design and it is designed with smooth full-grain uppers.

It has an EVA midsole and a replaceable inbuilt heel stabilizer. The shoe is supportive, breathable, and very comfortable. You can also use specialized orthotics inserts with this shoe, as it comes with a removable orthotic insert.

This shoe comes with a synthetic sole that is highly durable and hard. It also comes with a Velcro system that makes the shoe very comfortable and easy to wear and remove. It is made with 100 percent leather.

Specs

• Material: 100% Leather
• Sole: Rubber
• Size: 7-15 3X-wide

Pros

• Comfortable and lightweight
• Easy to wear and remove
• Breathable and attractive design
• Reasonable price tag

Cons

• Not the most durable

Why Do Older People Need Dedicated Walking Shoes?

Older people are now being encouraged to take more exercise and walking is one of the ways in which the elderly are being told to get fit. As we age, we are more prone to developing conditions like high blood pressure and diabetes, which can be relieved by losing weight and taking more exercise.

It has been proven by expert studies that men and women who remain active into later life are healthier and live longer than those who adopt a more sedentary lifestyle.

When all of this is taken into account, it is no wonder that there is an increasing demand for attractive, supportive, and comfortable shoes that are suitable for older walkers and meet all their changing needs.

How Do Older Walkers’ Needs Differ?

As we get older, our footwear needs start to change from those of younger buyers. While younger people are more about style and meeting the latest fashion trends, older walkers need shoes, which help their joints, relieve pressure on problem areas, and which offer more support and structure to improve stability while walking.

Older people have less fat on the soles of their feet, which can lead to pressure, pain, and sores, as the heel presses more against the surface causing irritation and heel spurs.

However, that does not mean that they want shoes that are ugly and unappealing. Staying comfortable and safe while still feeling good about their footwear is vital for any older walker.

How to Choose Walking Shoes for Seniors

It is important not to underestimate how important a good quality pair of walking shoes is for older people who want to boost their exercise levels.

When we get older, we are more at risk of trips and falls, and therefore finding shoes, which offer more stability, is essential to limit the chance of injury.

Bunions and claw toes create more pressure, which can then result in leg and foot pain. Finding footwear that has been designed with this in mind is essential.

When looking for the right pair of shoes for older walkers, it is important to find a pair that hugs the heel well to prevent slippage while walking, and which has ankle padding and a strong heel counter while still being flexible enough at the forefoot to enable easy bending and movement.

As we get older, our feet also change shape, and problems such as flat feet and claw toes can develop. Finding shoes to accommodate those changes is important.

Knowing the type of arch you have is also important. Motion-control shoes are good for overpronators while under-pronators need thicker heels and flexible midsoles. Those who have normal arches should look for stable footwear.

Buyers’ Guide: What to Look for in Shoes for Elderly People

As we age, our feet become more vulnerable to issues like arthritis, neuropathy, bunions, and balance instability. The right footwear can prevent falls and foot pain. Here’s what podiatrists recommend looking for in shoes for elderly men and women:

Supportive Sole

Shoes should have a firm but cushioned sole to absorb shock and reduce fatigue. Avoid overly soft soles or high heels, which can increase instability.

“Shoes should provide cushioning for shock absorption and have a firm heel counter to support the rearfoot.” — American Podiatric Medical Association (APMA)

Recommended features:

• Slightly rocker-bottom sole to aid natural motion
• Non-slip, rubber outsole for better grip
• Stiff heel counter for ankle support

Wide and Deep Toe Box

A wider toe box accommodates conditions like bunions and hammertoes and helps prevent pressure sores.

“A deep and wide toe box can reduce pressure on the forefoot and prevent rubbing on bony deformities.” — FootCareMD by the American Orthopaedic Foot & Ankle Society

Avoid:

• Narrow or pointed shoes
• Tight seams over sensitive areas

Adjustable Closures

Elderly people often have limited hand strength or arthritis. Easy-on, adjustable shoes allow for custom fit and ease of use.

Best options:

• Velcro closures
• Zipper shoes or slip-on styles with elastic
• Stretchable uppers

“Look for shoes that are easy to put on and take off. Velcro and elastic closures are ideal for people with arthritis or limited hand mobility.” — National Institute on Aging

Removable Insoles

Being able to replace insoles makes it easier to use custom orthotics prescribed by a podiatrist or add better arch support.

“If you wear orthotics, look for shoes with removable insoles so you can insert your own.” — Mayo Clinic: Footwear and Foot Health

Lightweight Construction

Heavy shoes can hinder mobility and lead to fatigue. Look for shoes with lightweight materials but a supportive build.

Recommended materials:

• EVA midsoles
• Breathable mesh or knit uppers

“Older adults benefit from lightweight shoes that do not impede mobility, but still offer adequate support.” — Harvard Health Publishing

Low Heel Drop

Shoes should allow a flat, stable platform. A low heel-to-toe drop helps mimic the body’s natural gait, aiding balance.

“Elevated heels may affect posture and gait in seniors, increasing the risk of imbalance.” — FootCareMD

Breathable and Diabetic-Friendly Features

For elderly individuals with diabetes or circulatory issues, moisture-wicking and seam-free interiors can help prevent ulcers and infections.

“Proper shoes are essential for preventing foot complications, especially for those with diabetes. Avoid seams that rub and look for breathable materials.” — APMA Diabetic Footwear Guide

Top Shoe Brands Often Recommended by Podiatrists

These brands are frequently endorsed by foot specialists for their comfort, safety, and support. Most also offer models with wide widths, removable insoles, and non-slip soles ideal for seniors:

• Orthofeet – Diabetic and orthopedic shoes with extra depth, cushioned soles, and stretchable uppers. Ideal for arthritis, bunions, and neuropathy.
• Propet – Medicare-approved shoes with roomy toe boxes and adjustable Velcro closures. Great for seniors with mobility challenges.
• New Balance – Offers stability and motion-control walking shoes in wide and extra-wide sizes, ideal for fall prevention.
• Hush Puppies – Lightweight casual shoes with soft leather uppers and shock-absorbing soles that don’t sacrifice style.
• Vionic – Designed by podiatrists with built-in arch support and cushioned heels. Suitable for plantar fasciitis and all-day standing.