The Best Running Shoes for Walking and All-Day Comfort

Don't overlook the power of walking. Whether you're running errands, taking a sunset stroll or pushing a pram, taking a walk every day can help improve both your physical and mental health. Can you use your running shoes to gain those benefits? In many cases, the answer is yes.

Running shoes are designed with cushioning to help absorb the impact as your foot hits the pavement, so even if you're spending all day upright or engaged in a long-distance outing, you'll still benefit from the springiness beneath your feet. Ahead, discover the best running shoes for walking from Nike.

• Many running shoes can be worn for walking.
• Cushioning and heel fit matter most for walking shoes.
• Lightweight shoes help reduce fatigue, especially for long distances.
• Not all walking shoes are suitable for running.

According to Ashley Campbell, lead product line manager of Global Footwear at Nike, comfort and fit are the essential factors when finding the right walking shoes.

While your individual preferences will help inform what style makes the most sense, testing factors like the cushioning and weight will help you to find the best running shoes for walking based on your needs and foot shape. The best walking shoes should feel comfortable immediately, with no break-in time needed.

That's particularly important if you plan on doing long-distance walking, which can lead to muscle fatigue and joint stress without shoes that offer cushioning and support.

Not all walking shoes are ideal for running but running shoes are a great option for walking. Nike's road running line offers some of the best shoes for running and walking, Campbell says.

These sneakers will be comfortable enough for walking long or short distances. You could also do a workout that mixes jogging and walking without worrying about support or cushioning.

Here's when running shoes may be the best choice for these activities:

• If you have joint pain: the increased cushioning in some running shoes can be preferable to less-cushioned walking shoes.
• When you walk on hard surfaces: for those who prefer to walk on concrete or tarmac, running shoes can be helpful, as they have more impact protection.
• If you need more arch support: the structured support built into many running shoes can provide a higher level of stability when you walk.
• When you switch between running and walking: if you do speed walking or you employ a walk-run strategy when training, a running shoe is likely a good choice.

Whether you're taking a stroll to the coffee shop or trying to knock out 10,000 steps at once, the Pegasus 42 is the best Nike shoe for running and walking.

• Zoom Air units at the forefoot and heel paired with a React foam midsole offer a soft, lightweight feeling underfoot.
• The breathable engineered mesh allows your feet to stay comfortable even on summer days.
• The updated midfoot support system helps your foot feel secure, no matter the terrain.
• This latest iteration of the storied Pegasus series builds on four decades of athlete-centred innovation.

A springy, soft, cushioned running shoe for walking is a necessity for many who spend lots of time on their feet. The Invincible 3 sneaker is the best running shoe for walking if you prefer a well-cushioned feeling on the move.

• A wider and taller midsole made of ZoomX foam means you'll have plenty of protection between your foot and the pavement.
• Additional cushioning where your heel touches the shoe is great for those who are blister-prone.
• A breathable Flyknit upper in key areas provides better structural support.

From the moment you leave the house until you untie your laces and relax on your sofa, the Vomero 18 is a shoe designed to keep your feet comfortable. You'll appreciate the cushioned feel of the best running shoe for walking and moving through a busy day.

• Maximum cushioning with a high stack height absorbs impact.
• It combines ZoomX and ReactX for both energy return and durability in the midsole.
• The new collar is softer than the Vomero 17 and provides plush comfort.
• The enhanced rocker shape gives you smoother heel-to-toe transitions.

Feel light on your feet in the Pegasus Turbo Next Nature. Because of the versatile foam used, the shoe forms a sock-like fit around your foot, providing stability and support regardless of conditions.

• The ZoomX foam in the midsole is both airy and plush, adding a responsive pep to your step.
• This shoe is designed with neutral support, so wherever your foot makes impact, you'll feel secure.
• For additional structure, flywire cables in the upper part of the shoe help keep your foot in place.
• The Flyknit upper is made of recycled yarn for a secure, breathable and lightweight fit.

In general, when choosing a running shoe for walking, it's worth considering footwear that is created specifically for movement. The best running shoes for walking can help ensure that no matter how many steps you take, your toes won't feel cramped and your arches are supported.