None of Nike walking shoes describe themselves as walking shoes – you see running shoes, trail runners, and athletic footwear. But what makes a walking shoe a walking shoe? Does what you call a thing matter? As the old saying goes, if it walks like a duck… Not that the best Nike walking shoes will make you walk like a duck. Show
The entire purpose of walking shoes is to protect and support your feet as you go about that natural activity of walking. Walking is the way humans get about, and we master the skill early on because our brains are hard-wired to get us on our feet and moving sometime before our second birthday. Then we put shoes on our feet, and the shoes we choose can either assist or hinder us in our walking ability. Different shoes serve various functions, all of which fall within the category of walking. Table of Contents
This post may contain affiliate links. That means that I may earn a small commission, at no extra cost to you, if you buy something through my site. This helps me run my website and produce the articles that I hope you find helpful. How The Reviews Are OrganizedIn the first section, I discuss the best Nike walking shoes for comfortable walking from sight-seeing in city streets or hiking along an exciting trail. I highlight the Nike technology found in each shoe and other important qualities that make it an ideal walking shoe for various environments and terrains. In the Buyer’s Guide, I discuss in detail the different Nike technology found in Nike walking shoes so that you can fully appreciate what each offers to your walking experience. Anyone walking on the most extreme trails in severe winter should always opt for a traditional hiking boot style, but Nike walking shoes suit a range of leisure walks from urban fitness to reasonably challenging trails. You match your needs to the Nike walking shoes that give you the performance you need for your walking type. Other OptionsIn the following article, you will discover that Nike walking shoes offer you a lot of sophisticated footwear technology, in addition to some exciting colors and styles. However, that is not to say that it will suit everyone. If you have not found exactly what you are looking for, I would recommend the following:
Best Nike Walking Shoes For Casual Walking On Roads, City Streets, And TrailsHere are 11 of the best Nike walking shoes. Some are just for men or women, but most are unisex. That means they are either exactly the same and offered to both men and women but with different sizing, or the same style but in different color options and sizes. In addition, some styles still offer sizes in earlier versions with only modest alterations. If they do, I have highlighted those. Sometimes, you might be able to find a good deal or they are offered in colors and patterns that make them different than the newer model. Please note the newer models on only available on Nike.com and the older versions are only available on Amazon.com. Nike Flex Experience 10 For MenVIEW ON NIKE.COM Nike Flex Experience 10 For WomenVIEW ON NIKE.COM The Nike Flex Experience 10 is the updated version of the previously recommended Flex Experience 8. What’s New?
Nike Flex Experience 8 For MenView on Amazon Nike Flex Experience 8 For WomenView on Amazon Best Features
ConclusionThe Nike Flex Experience 10 and the earlier model, Nike Flex Experience 8, both offer a lot for a long day on your feet. A flexible sole allows you to walk as close to barefoot as possible while still retaining under sole cushioning and protection. They are lightweight because they combine the midsole and outsole cushion, thus reducing the amount of heavy rubber in the sole. You get a tread pattern that gives plenty of grip and a comfortable knit fabric upper in a range of colors to match your style. These Nike sneakers are lightweight casual wear that lets you spend the day walking around town or in the park, running and playing around with your family. As for the additional features offered in the Nike Flex Experience 10, they give you more style and comfort as an all-around activity sneaker for everyday use. These Nike walking shoes will take you sightseeing and on a trip to the gym. View on Nike.com Best Nike Walking Shoes For All TerrainsNike Wildhorse 7 For MenVIEW ON NIKE.COM Nike Wildhorse 7 For WomenVIEW ON NIKE.COM Changes From The Nike Air Zoom Wildhorse 5
Features Of These Nike Hiking Shoes
Nike Air Zoom Wildhorse 5View on Amazon Best Features
ConclusionNike walking shoes intended as trail runners are more robust and allow you to walk on more challenging trails with comfortable feet. The rock plate gives underfoot protection, protecting your underfoot from punctures found on mountain trails. The deep lugs give you traction on an uphill or downhill trek and the multidirectional pattern allows them to shed mud and debris, thus keeping your feet light and retaining traction on slippery surfaces. Replacing the Air Zoom units in the Nike Air Zoom Wildhorse 5 with React Foam in the Nike Wildhorse 7 shoes gives these walking shoes a bouncier and comfortable ride over all terrains. The improved breathable mesh upper keeps your feet cool, and the slick overlays provide strategic waterproofing. Both of these are the best Nike walking shoes if you intend to tackle some difficult walks. View on Nike.com Best Nike Walking Shoes For Long Walks On Hard SurfacesNike Downshifter 11 For MenVIEW ON NIKE.COM Nike Downshifter 11 For WomenVIEW ON NIKE.COM Best Features
ConclusionNike classes the Downshifter 11 as an entry-level Nike road runner. You don’t get the high-tech React Foam, but the cushioning and support are more than adequate to keep you walking around all day. You benefit from Nike design with breathable panels and flexible soles at a considerable saving compared with other Nike walking shoes. If you like to spend a lot of time on your feet, you may prefer to invest in two of these so you can alternate your shoes rather than one of the more expensive models. These Nike walking shoes are great for family activities and casual wear in the evening. View on Nike.com Best Nike Walking Shoes For All Types of WalkingNike Air Zoom Terra Kiger 7 For MenVIEW ON NIKE.COM Nike Air Zoom Terra Kiger 7 For WomenVIEW ON NIKE.COM Best Features
ConclusionAnother example of trail running shoes making excellent Nike walking shoes because you get better traction and underfoot protection. Nike walking shoes that perform on rocky and slippery trails are equally at home in the more refined but equally punishing concrete jungle. You get two of Nike’s best cushioning systems. First, an air pocket under the heel to cushion this vulnerable area. Next, a layer of shock-absorbing, energy-returning React Foam gives you all-day comfort wherever you choose to walk. The mesh uppers conform to the shape of your feet making sure that your feet adjust and stay comfortable on uneven terrain. View on Nike.com Best Nike Walking Shoes On Hard Surfaces and Light TrailsNike Joyride For WomenView on Amazon Best Features
ConclusionThe Nike Joyride cushioning is ideal for pampering tired legs and feet – the sensation is like walking on wet sand with custom support underneath. The flexible upper hugs your feet and gives you the comfort of wearing supportive Nike walking shoes that are light. These Nike walking shoes are excellent for walking long miles, but the soft uppers are not protective against rough terrain. In addition, there isn’t any significant traction on the outsoles to deal with slippery or uneven ground so keep these Nike walking shoes for covering distance on city streets or civilized trails. Jordan Delta 2 For MenVIEW ON NIKE.COM Jordan Delta 2 For WomenVIEW ON NIKE.COM Best Features
ConclusionThere are plenty of components on the upper which add stability and support to your foot around the heel, toe, and midfoot. The outsole extends to the toe area providing additional abrasion resistance. The midfoot mudflap is supportive and helps keep the upper clean. The Jordan delta 2, despite being in the running as the style icon sneakers for 2021, is a durable and comfortable Nike walking shoe. Most reviews talk about the looks, the style, and the brand image, but this Nike walking shoe is comfortable, supportive, and a joy to wear. It will put a bounce in your step and a smile on your face. View on Nike.com Best Nike Walking Shoes For Casual Summer WalkingNike Tanjun For MenView on Amazon Nike Tanjun For WomenView on Amazon Best Features
ConclusionTanjun means simplicity in Japanese, and these Nike walking shoes go back to basics as a streamlined pair of sneakers that are comfortable and stylish. You can wear them all day as casual shoes and enjoy exploring city highlights or parks. The uppers are breathable, and the cushioning is light but comfortable. You wouldn’t use these Nike walking shoes for a marathon trek across the mountains or anything similar, but they are excellent for walking about on a city break. Best Nike Walking Shoes For Casual Walking On Non-Challenging SurfacesNike React Infinity Flynit 2 For MenVIEW ON NIKE.COM Nike React Infinity Flynit 2 For WomenVIEW ON NIKE.COM Best Features
ConclusionThese Nike walking shoes will allow you to walk all day for work or leisure, and your feet will stay supported and comfortable. They include Flywire technology which uses lightweight, flexible, and strong Vectran fibers in the upper to wrap around the foot at strategic points to provide additional support without excess weight. In addition, they supply a smooth walking gait with a heel-to-toe rocker movement and lots of supportive cushioning with a breathable upper. These Nike walking shoes would not be ideal for challenging terrain. They do not have deep lugs on their treads, or any rubber overlays in the soft uppers to protect against abrasion. View on Nike.com Best Nike Walking Shoes For Wet, Cold Weather On Roads Or Reasonable TrailsNike React Miller 2 Shield For MenVIEW ON NIKE.COM Nike React Miller 2 Shield For WomenVIEW ON NIKE.COM Best Features
ConclusionThese Nike walking shoes can cope with less-than-ideal weather conditions if you are the type of walker that doesn’t confine their activities to the drier or warmer months of the year. You get all the Nike trademark features of responsive cushioning and an upper that snugly fits your foot. Plus, you get water resistance and some additional insulation. The weatherproofing doesn’t stop at the upper. The outsole design mimics the tread on winter tires with microgrooves to help traction and lugs that actively shed water. View on Nike.com Best Nike Walking Shoes For Walking On Road Surfaces Or Reasonable TrailsNike Air Zoom Pegasus 38 For MenVIEW ON NIKE.COM Nike Air Zoom Pegasus 38 For WomenVIEW ON NIKE.COM Best Features
Conclusion The combination of air pockets and React foam cushioning gives these Nike walking shoes a bouncy-walking-on-air feeling that reduces leg fatigue. The outsole lugs improve traction on wet and dry roads, but they don’t have the mud-shedding capabilities of a more aggressive trail runner. The mesh uppers allow airflow around your feet and the reinforcing overlays provide some water resistance in critical areas, so shallow puddles are not a deal-breaker. The upper drys out quickly, so a wet walk isn’t that much of a problem. Ideally, these are the best Nike walking shoes for reasonable trails and exploring the urban cityscape. View on Nike.com Best Nike Walking Shoes For Casual Walking On Roads And SidewalksNike Air VaporMax 2021 FK For MenVIEW ON NIKE.COM Nike Air VaporMax 2021 FK For WomenVIEW ON NIKE.COM Best Features
ConclusionIn these Nike walking shoes, the pressurized nitrogen air pockets give you support under your heel and forefoot, and you experience the fast responsiveness of walking on air – a Nike trademark. The upper hugs the foot and feels warm and comfortable in use. You will pay upwards of $200 for a pair and for that, you won’t be taking them out on challenging trails. Still, these are stylish, comfortable, and ideal for exploring a new city all day on foot and then, enjoying some nightlife. View on Nike.com Buyer’s Guide To The Best Nike Walking ShoesDifferent shoes serve various functions, but the shoes that work the best for walking have the following. Cushioned PlatformsThe midsole and insole of your shoe provide the walking surface for your bare feet. The most pleasant surface for barefoot walking is soft and spongy. Your feet are happiest on a soft texture that gives you some energy when you push off on your toes. If you spend your day walking on a hard, unyielding surface, your feet, back, and legs take a pounding from your body weight’s repetitive strike against the concrete. The proper cushioning minimizes that impact and reduces fatigue and physical stress on your bones and soft tissues. The best Nike walking shoes use an impressive range of cushioning technologies. Air SolesNike was the first sneaker manufacturer to use pressurized air in the midsole to provide superior cushioning for your feet. Today Nike uses environmentally friendly recycled and pressurized nitrogen in some shoes, and the Nike Air VaporMax shoe removes the foam midsole. Losing the foam means reducing the end waste in landfills. The air cushions can be under the heel, the forefoot, or both to give you the sensation of walking on air regardless of the terrain you cover. ZoomZoom combines elastic fibers and pressurized air for a fast response cushioning system that is ideal for the high-impact runner. It also makes the best Nike walking shoes. The lightweight foam cushioning gives you energy return which is super for distance walking or hard surfaces. The weight reduction offers performance with a lighter shoe, again helping you have more energy at the end of the trail. The first Nike walking shoes using Zoom – Nike Vaporfly and the latest – Nike Zoom Pegasus Turbo both suit walkers and runners. React FoamThe two conflicting demands of runners and walkers are cushioning that is shock absorbing and then, gives energy back. Soft shock-absorbing materials, by their nature, absorb energy, rigid foams return it, so the two processes are in opposition. It took 400 different combinations of chemicals to develop React Foam – a cushioning material that is shock absorbing and returns energy. After 2,000 hours of training under the punishing feet of basketball players, the foam was still responsive. After that, it was ready to be apart of a better running shoe and excellent Nike walking shoes. The bonus feature is that it is durable and gives you more miles from your Nike walking shoes. You find it in Nike Epic React Flyknit. LunarlonRemember the song that talks about “walking on the moon” and taking giant steps? Lunarlon is Nike’s approach to giving you the soft, bouncy ride that a reduced gravity walk would give you and your feet. React Foam is replacing Lunarlon in Nike walking shoes, but you can currently get some older Nike walking shoes with this midsole and save a few dollars compared with a newer model. JoyrideDid you ever have a beanbag cushion? You flop into it, and the beads mold to your body shape giving you a custom fit. That is the principle behind the Nike Joyride shoes. Instead of air pads, you get cushioning panels of beads that respond to your body weight and impact with supportive cushioning that molds to your foot – it is 14% more effective at shock absorption than Zoom and available in bright color mixes. Most runners love them for their recovery runs, and that’s great news for walkers. Flexible SolesThe human foot is a marvel of natural engineering. When you walk, your entire bodyweight moves smoothly from the heel through to the ball of your foot, and finally, your toes act as five mini launching platforms to spring your foot into the air. The repetition of heel strike, followed by a roll-through and push-off, makes walking possible. Now think about what happens when you wear skis, snowshoes, or ice skates and try to walk – it’s physically tiring because your foot can’t go through the natural motion that makes your natural gait. Comfortable walking relies on outsoles that flex in the right way. You don’t want to twist in the midfoot area because that is the wrong movement and results in foot damage. On the contrary, you want walking shoes with flex in the forefoot – the best Nike walking shoes achieve this with innovative materials and tread design. Support for the midfoot comes from using fibers with a high tensile strength to reinforce the upper and wrap around your foot. There is a balance between a thin, flexible sole like the Nike Free Trainer, which is excellent for a walk under three miles, and the need for more protection and comfort on a longer distance. When you are going for a walk exceeding three miles, you are better with a curved sole like the Nike CruzrOne, which helps a steady, but slower pace over many miles. Alternatively, Nike walking shoes with lots of cushioning like the Nike React Infinity will eat up mile after mile and still leave a spring in your step. Challenging TrailsWalking on hard concrete is tough on your feet, but it is not as challenging as trails where you encounter rocks, roots, mud, slippery surfaces, and other natural hazards. You want a tread pattern that gives you some extra grip and potentially a reinforced rock plate for some underfoot protection for this kind of walking. Nike Wildhorse 5 and 6 have React Foam cushioning coupled with many hiking boot traits like breathability and traction. Look for the ATG description for all-terrain gear if you want to go for a walk on the wild side. Uppers On The Best Nike Walking ShoesThe uppers on your Nike walking shoes play many valuable roles:
Last WordAs expected, Nike offers a lot of exceptional walking shoes to fit different terrains, environments, and expected uses. Before purchasing, try and figure out how you think you will be using them so you can select the ones that supply the best cushion, support, breathability, and tread for you. Share on FacebookShare on TwitterShare on Pinterest previous article The 7 Coolest And Best Nike Hiking Shoes (2022 Review)next article 25 Best Places To Visit In The USA In May (2022 Review)the authorNicole All posts byNicole You Might Also LikeSicily is one of the most incredible places that we have ever visited in the world. The landscapes are stunning,...
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