The 12 Best Nike Shoes for Walking with Extra Cushioning and Arch Support

By Sara Coughlin

Now's the time for outdoor strolls, but if you don't have the right pair of shoes, you probably won't enjoy the fall foliage very much. That's why we’ve sought out the best Nike shoes for walking the days away this season. Why Nike, you ask? While agile Nike running shoes with performance-driven technical designs might be the first things to come to mind when you think of this esteemed brand, it also ranks right up there with New Balance as the maker of some of the most comfortable walking shoes you can find.

With key features like breathable mesh uppers, extra cushioning through the heel, and arch support, Nike sneakers are designed to provide the kind of comfort and stability that you need on long walks. In fact, you can find these elements across the brand's line, from its road running shoes to trail running shoes to its cross training shoes—so really, it's just a matter of finding which ones suit your feet best.

According to SELF's sneaker buying guide, you should look for a shoe that maps the shape of your foot, with a suitable arch (whether you have high arches or flat feet) and room through the forefoot and toe box to accommodate some wiggling. This criteria is as important for running shoes as it is for a pair of walking shoes, so keep it in mind as you shop.

Now, without further ado, let's take a look at the best Nike shoes for walking, including SELF Certified sneaks, stylish picks for the athleisure fan, and time-tested favorites from online reviewers.

All products featured on SELF are independently selected by our editors. However, when you buy something through our retail links, we may earn an affiliate commission.

As the winner of SELF's 2021 Sneaker Award for best athleisure sneaker, the Waffle One garnered high praise from our associate director of special projects for how functional it is, despite its casual appearance. She noted that it provided ample traction and protection, due in no small part to its sturdy lug rubber outsole, and liked that they kept her comfortable all day long, writing that she actually forgot she was wearing them at one point.

Available in sizes 5 to 12.

This workhorse road running shoe features a durable foam midsole, soft foam heel, and an overall thicker sole to ensure a cushy ride with plenty of shock absorption. If you equate lots of cushion with a clunky fit, fear not: The shoe's lacing system features Flywire cables that extend down the midfoot, which cinch to a snug fit when you lace up.

Available in sizes 5 to 11.5.

Seasoned outdoorsy people love the Pegasus Trail 3 trail running shoes for how well they weather the elements, drying quickly after plunging into puddles and providing grip on moderate terrain. Plus, outdoor experts previously told SELF that they are, simply, comfortable shoes—which is likely due to the fact that their sole is made of responsive Nike React foam. If you’re looking for a nimble walking shoe for outdoor adventures, this is it.

Available in sizes 5.5 to 12.

Without a doubt, the Nike Air Max 90 sneakers are the best Nike walking shoes if you're looking for style and substance in equal measure. They feel wonderfully cushioned, particularly through the heel; and they come in a wide range of colors and patterns, so you can coordinate them with everything from leggings to dresses.

Available in sizes 5 to 12.

Another previous SELF Sneaker Award winner, the Air Zoom Pegasus 38 impressed our digital director with its generous padding through the insole and the breezy, bouncy ride it provided once she got moving. Although they're designed for running, these sneakers strike the right balance between cushy and responsive that put a real spring in your step while you're out on a walk. As far as fit goes, our digital director noted that the toe box was on the narrower side, so those with wider feet or anyone who likes a roomy forefoot should keep that in mind and consider sizing up.

Available in sizes 5 to 12.

By Kayla Blanton

By Amy Marturana Winderl, C.P.T.

By Malia Griggs

If you like the idea of a minimalist, slip-on walking shoe but also want something with a secure fit, consider the React Phantom Run Flyknit 2. Its laceless design doesn't sacrifice fit, and its outsole provides as much spring as it does impact absorption.

Available in sizes 5 to 13.

The Nike React Infinity Run Flyknit is a highly-rated piece of running gear. It has been rigorously tested by the brand to be reliable, stable, and, above all, enduringly comfortable, whether you're pounding the pavement on a run, a long walk, or a quick errand. Its supportive midfoot is designed to prevent your foot from rolling, and the foam sole is thick enough that your feet will feel refreshed even with extended wear.

Available in sizes 5 to 12.

The Nike Downshifter 11 shines in its lightweight feel. From its mesh upper to its flexible outsole, this breathable shoe is made to help you feel nimble and quick on your feet, step after step. It's a great choice for anyone who dislikes a chunky shoe and wants to just slip on their sneaks and go.

Available in sizes 5 to 11.5.

By Kayla Blanton

By Amy Marturana Winderl, C.P.T.

By Malia Griggs

In her review for the 2021 SELF Sneaker Awards, our former editor-in-chief wrote that the Nike ZoomX Invincible Run shoes had a bouncy, squishy feel underfoot that she found extremely appealing. And, she pointed out, they're not just an excellent option for the beginning runner: "These shoes are super comfortable to walk in—I wore them to run errands after a morning run and felt like I could walk around all day in them."

Available in sizes 5 to 12.

Another option with major style points, the Nike Spark will make you feel like you're walking on clouds (very fashionable ones, at that). These off-white sneakers have a padded tongue and collar to prevent blisters and a dual-layered sole of firm and soft foams that gives the shoe a pleasantly propulsive ride.

Available in sizes 5 to 12.

As its name would suggest, the Nike React Miler 2 is made to go the distance thanks to the brand's maximum amount of cushion and a stabilizing support system. For those who like to walk rain or shine, this version of the Miler is actually weatherized with seals to prevent water from seeping in around the toe.

Available in sizes 6 to 11.

By Kayla Blanton

By Amy Marturana Winderl, C.P.T.

By Malia Griggs

Reviewers with wide feet consider these training shoes to be some of the most comfortable shoes they can wear to, during, and after their gym sessions. They have a structured heel, foot-hugging design, and a highly stable feel that enables balance and lateral movements.

Available in sizes 5 to 12.

SELF does not provide medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Any information published on this website or by this brand is not intended as a substitute for medical advice, and you should not take any action before consulting with a healthcare professional.