9 Best Shoes For Walking On Concrete
Concrete floors are common and if you are reading this article, I’m going to guess and say you walk on concrete often or are thinking about walking on concrete more. While walking concrete itself doesn’t necessarily lead to injuries, it does cause greater stress on joints than softer surfaces such as grass or dirt. This is why investing in a good, supportive pair of shoes can help with shock absorption and equal distribution of forces, thus supporting your joints and feet — which is also part of preventative care and a pain management option (for those already dealing with foot pain). This is especially true for people with arthritis and other joint disorders. Either way, having a good pair of shoes is important regardless of the surface you are walking on.
What are the characteristics of a good shoe for walking on concrete?
Characteristics like customizable, durability, traction, style come to mind. Still, different people have different needs. Some people may require a certain level of cushioning, while others may prefer a shoe with more breathability. For walking on concrete, a shoe that provides good, adjustable support with a cushioned sole is ideal. While many think that an extremely cushioned shoe may be ideal for shock absorption and reducing stress on the feet and joints. This isn’t exactly the case. Studies have found that highly cushioned shoes may actually have increased impact forces1,2. With that being said, two studies aren’t enough to make a definitive conclusion on the matter. There isn’t enough evidence to establish a connection between the properties of a shoe’s sole and the level of stress on the foot. All in all, the best shoe for walking on concrete should provide supportive cushioning and have features that meet your individual needs. Some people prefer the highest level of cushioning while others like low to moderate. This list contains a good variety of shoes with different cushioning and features that are worth considering.
What are the 9 Best Shoes for Walking on Concrete?
Overall, proper footwear is important for walking on concrete.This round-up post of the 9 best shoes for walking on concrete is based on their overview, top features, considerations, and cost. Read on for more details.
1. Orthofeet Women’s Coral Stretch Knit Athletic Shoes
Overview
The orthofeet women’s coral stretch knit athletic shoes or the orthofeet men’s edgewater stretch athletic shoes are the perfect choice for individuals with sensitive feet or foot ailments. Note that although these shoes have different names for the women’s shoes and men’s shoes, they offer the same features and benefits. The shoes have been rigorously reviewed and promoted by certified podiatrists, earning them the APMA seal. Designed specifically to model the natural shape of the foot, these shoes provide unmatched support and comfort to those suffering from foot pain, diabetes, and arthritis. Also with their removable insole, sole arch support, and spacers, orthofeet offers great customizability in comparison to other shoes.
Top Features
- Has the removable insole with removable arch booster
- Very comfortable and supportive cushioning sole
- Stretchy knit material and roomy toe box allow a relaxed fit; this may be beneficial for those with bunions and hammertoes
- Includes fitting spacers (1/16” and 1/8” spacers), which can be removed or kept in the shoe or a customizable fit.
- Option to choose from 3 different widths: medium, wide, and x-wide
Considerations
- Not machine washable. Clean with washcloth
Cost
- Range from $119.95 – $134
- Also, take a look at the customer reviews here for the women’s shoes and men’s shoes.
2. Nike Pegasus 40 running shoes
Overview
The women’s nike pegasus 40 and men’s nike pegasus 40 are a versatile running shoe that boasts a comfortable and supportive design. This shoe was designed with a focus on comfort in the areas of the toes, arch, and heel. A midfoot band is incorporated into the Peg 40 to deliver a secure fit. The highly tuned single layer mesh is breathable and conforms to your foot. The Peg 40 also features redesigned midfoot straps that fit all sizes of arches. This shoe has neutral support, making it suitable for both heel and forefoot strikers. Overall, it’s a great walking shoe.
Top Features
- Nike React technology midsole with heel and forefoot zoom air units for support and high responsiveness
- Medium level cushioning (balance between high-level cushioning and light/responsive cushioning)
- Good traction with the bottom grip structure
- Great durability
Considerations
- Has a posterior heel flare; while this may help with reducing impact force during walking2, some may find the rear to feel a bit bulky
Cost
- $130
- Take a look at the customer reviews here (the reviews for men’s and women’s shoes are combined).
3. Asics GT – 1000 11
Overview
The women’s GT-1000 11 and men’s GT-1000 11 were created with a focus on a lighter and smoother feel, using technology such as FLYTEFOAM cushioning for more comfortable landings and transitions. LITETRUSS technology has been placed on the inside angle of the midsole to reduce overpronation and maintain correct stride support. These shoes have a strong rubber sole that makes them last longer, and the tread pattern on the bottom provides steady grip in any type of weather.
Top Features
- Has their Flytefoam cushioning in the midsole to help with impact absorption
- The rearfoot gel technology provides medium-level, balanced cushioning and support
- Built with their literuss technology for midfoot support and to reduce overpronation (commonly seen in people with flat feet or plantar fasciitis)
- Good breathable upper mesh material
Considerations
- May run on a slightly narrower side
Cost
4. Orthofeet hands-free athletic shoe
Overview
The women’s hands free shoes and men’s hand-free shoes by orthofeet are designed for individuals with sensitive feet or foot conditions — as are all their other signature shoes. In comparison to the Orthofeet stretch athletic shoes, these shoes are different in that they offer the patented slip-on feature (so you can slip your foot in and out of them without using your hands), water-repellent upper, and slip resistant outsole). Otherwise, they offer the same customizability and comfort as the rest of their shoes, especially beneficial for those with foot pain, diabetes, and arthritis.
Top Features
- Has the removable insoles with removable arch booster
- Stretchy upper material allows a relaxed fit (may be beneficial for those with bunions and hammertoes). Plus upper material is water repellent, making cleaning easy
- Slip resistant outsole for great grip
- Includes removable fitting spacers (1/16” and 1/8” spacers)for a customizable fit
- Option to choose from 3 different widths: medium, wide, and x-wide
Considerations
- No machine washable; clean with washcloth
Cost
- $134.95
- Take a look at the reviews for women’s shoes and men’s shoes
5. Brooks Glycerin GTS 20
Overview
The women’s glycerin GTS 20 and men’s brook glycerin GTS 20 are well known for their nitrogen infused DNA loft v3 foam, which provides plush cushioning and exceptional comfort. The GTS 20 feature a wider platform for the midsole and outsole than its predecessor, the glycerin 19, to make transitions smoother and easier. In addition, they also feature a solid heel counter and ample amount of ankle padding for stability.
Top Features
- Highly cushioned shoe (with their nitrogen infused DNA loft v3 foam), allows a soft, cozy walking experience
- Good amount of breathability with the upper mesh material
- Very durable, even with extended use
- Option to choose from 2 different widths: medium and wide
Considerations
- Has a small amount posterior heel flare; while this may help with reducing impact force during walking2, some may find the rear to feel a bit bulky
Cost
- $160
- Take a look at the reviews here for women’s shoes and men’s shoes.
6. Hoka Stinson 6
Overview
The women’s hoka stinson 6 and men’s hoka stinson 6 are quite versatile; They can be used not only on concrete but also for uneven hiking/trail roads. The engineered mesh on these shoes features recycled polyester fibers that provide a comfortable fit. These shoes also feature a reinforced toe cap that provides extra durability. The Stinson 6 is built with the highest volume CMEVA midsole in the Hoka lineup, which offers lightweight cushioning. The midsole is wide and the fit is adaptable, which makes for a comfortable experience. In addition, the midsole is equipped with advanced Meta-Rocker technology that promotes stability during toe-off and helps transitions.
Top Features
- Plushy cushioning offer excellent comfort
- Great traction for different types of terrain
- Made with a durable rubber
- New integrated eyelets have been added to the upper part of the shoe to provide improved lacing support and comfort.
Considerations
- Somewhat bulky
- Has a posterior heel flare; while this may help with reducing impact force during walking2, some may find the rear to feel a bit bulky
Cost
- $170
- Take a look at the reviews here for the women’s shoes and men’s shoes.
7. Brooks Ariel ’20/Beast ’20
Overview
The Brooks ’20, known as ariel ’20 for women and beast ’20 for men are set apart by their GuideRails technology, which helps keep the foot in place during movement and provides extra stability. While there are other Brooks shoes with more and less cushioning, the Beast ’20 and Ariel ’20 are mid-level and with high support. This is designed for runners who have increased foot deviations or are more unstable. Overall, these Brooks shoes feature a good combination of stability and comfort.
Top Features
- Moderate level cushioning offered by their patented BioMoGo DNA midsole
- Has GuideRails support system to help stabilize the foot by limiting excess foot movements within the shoe
- Sole is durable and has offers great traction
- Option to choose from 3 different widths: medium, wide, and extra wide
Considerations
- Shoe runs on the heavier side
Cost
- $160
- Take a look at the reviews here for women’s shoes and men’s shoes
8. Nike React Infinity 3
Overview
The women’s nike react infinity 3 and men’s nike react infinity 3 shoes are designed with runners in mind, offering cushioning and stability. With that said, it also makes a great shoe for walking on concrete. The Flyknit upper provides zones of breathability and flexibility, and is further supported with Flywire technology for the midfoot section. The rocker sole adds an extra level of support during stride, giving a flexible push off, a smooth stride forward and cushioned landing.
Top Features
- Offers high-rise, plush cushioning for a comfortable experience
- Added cushioning around the heel and ankle provide stability
- Outsole is very durable
- The upper part of shoe is more padded, which allows for a secure, snug fit
Considerations
- There is no option to get a wider width
- Has a posterior heel flare; while this may help with reducing impact force during walking2, some may find the rear to feel a bit bulky
Cost
- $160
- Take a look at the reviews here. Note, the reviews for women’s and men’s nike react infinity 3 are combined.
9. Skechers Go Walk Arch Fit – Iconic
Overview
The Skechers women’s go walk arch fit and men’s go walk arch fit are a great everyday shoe. Skechers is pretty well-known for its Go Walk selection of shoes, and this one does not disappoint. Made with a lightweight athletic mesh upper, these shoes have a Stretch Fit® pull-on design making them easy to slip on. Plus, the removable Arch Fit® insole offer more support by helping with shock absorption, and weight distribution.
Top features
- Lightweight, responsive UltraGo cushioned midsole
- Light, breathable mesh upper allows proper ventilation. Plus, slip ons sneakers are always convenient
- Includes a removable Arch Fit insole
- Machine washable
Considerations
- No current option for a wider width
Cost
- $90
- Take a look at the customer reviews here for women’s shoes and men’s shoes.
Returns
Orthofeet: Covered by their 60-day wear test, so if you are not satisfied within that time period, you can return them for a full refund.
Nike: Generally a 60-day return policy, with some exceptions. After 60 days, you can return the item if it has been unworn and unwashed.
Asics: 90-day return policy but the item must be unworn and unwashed, with tags still attached.
Brooks: 90-day trial period, where you can return the shoes if you aren’t satisfied without any shipping fees. If shoes are unworn and in original packaging, you have 1 year to return them.
Hoka: 30-day return period no matter what.
Skechers: You can return within 45 days of shipment if the shoes are unworn and/or defective.
Bottomline – What are the best shoes for walking on concrete?
In conclusion, the best shoes for walking on concrete will depend on your individual needs. If you prefer greater cushioning, then shoes such as the Brooks glycerin GTS-20 or Hoka Stinson 6 might be better options. For more customizability, the orthofeet shoes are great options. With the 9 best shoes for walking on concrete highlighted in this round-up post, you have a good amount of options. Refer to the return policies, as some companies allow a trial period, so you can try the shoes out and if you aren’t satisfied, you can return them. No matter which option you decide on, try them out and make sure that they fit your foot properly. Happy walking!
References:
Baltich J, Maurer C, Nigg BM. Increased Vertical Impact Forces and Altered Running Mechanics with Softer Midsole Shoes. Garcia Aznar JM, ed. PLoS ONE. 2015;10(4):e0125196. doi:10.1371/journal.pone.0125196
Daryabor, Aliyeh & Saeedi, Hassan & yazdani, meria & Ghasemi, Mohammad & Kamali, Mohammad & Nabavi, Hoda. (2013). The effect of standard heel and positive posterior heel flare of orthopedic shoeon vertical ground reaction forces during walking. IJWP. 5. 25-31.
Pollard, Christine D. et al. “Influence of Maximal Running Shoes on Biomechanics Before and After a 5K Run.” Orthopaedic Journal of Sports Medicine 6.6 (2018): 2325967118775720. PMC. Web. 12 Oct. 2018
