Whether you're walking for fitness, exploring a new city, or spending long hours on your feet, the right footwear makes all the difference. A supportive walking shoe reduces fatigue, improves comfort, and can ease common issues like heel pain, arch discomfort, and sore knees.
At Walking On A Cloud, we've been helping Canadians find comfortable, supportive footwear for over 30 years. As a Canadian family-owned business with 30 stores across Ontario, we carry the most trusted brands for exceptional fit, cushioning, and all-day comfort. Here are our expert picks for the best walking shoes for women and men in Canada in 2026.
What Makes a Great Walking Shoe?
The best walking shoes combine several key features:
- Cushioned midsoles to absorb shock
- Arch support to promote proper alignment
- Stability to reduce overpronation
- Breathable materials to keep feet cool
- Lightweight construction to minimize fatigue
- Durable outsoles for dependable traction
If you deal with plantar fasciitis, flat feet, or spend hours standing and walking, these features are especially important when choosing comfortable walking shoes.
1. New Balance 1080
The New Balance 1080 is one of the brand's most popular premium cushioning shoes, widely chosen for its softness and smooth everyday performance. A top pick for comfortable walking shoes for women and men alike.
Best for: Walking, all-day comfort, extended wear, and those who prefer a plush cushioned feel.
2. Aetrex Danika
Designed with built-in orthotic support and superior cushioning, the Aetrex Danika helps align your body and reduce pressure on the feet — making it one of the best walking shoes for plantar fasciitis in Canada.
Best for: Plantar fasciitis, arch support, all-day comfort.
3. New Balance 880
The New Balance 880 is a versatile walking and fitness shoe with plush cushioning and a comfortable fit for everyday wear.
Best for: Walking, fitness, travel.
4. Merrell Agility Trail WP
The Merrell Agility Trail Waterproof features a FloatPro™ foam midsole for long-lasting, energy-saving cushioning, 3mm lugs for reliable traction, and a waterproof upper to keep you protected from the elements.
Best for: Fitness walking, long-distance walking, active lifestyles, hiking.
5. ECCO Soft 7
This premium leather sneaker combines Scandinavian design with outstanding cushioning and support — a refined option for those seeking stylish yet comfortable walking shoes in Canada.
Best for: Travel, casual walking, everyday wear.
6. Clarks Walking Shoes
Clarks offers lightweight, flexible walking shoes that deliver lasting comfort and timeless style — a reliable everyday choice for women and men.
Best for: Work, travel, casual walking.
7. Birkenstock Bend
The Birkenstock Bend sneaker incorporates Birkenstock's signature contoured footbed for excellent arch support and all-day comfort.
Best for: Arch support, casual walking, everyday wear.
8. Dansko Pace
Designed with stability, cushioning, and a removable footbed, the Dansko Pace is ideal for active professionals who spend long hours on their feet.
Best for: Nurses, teachers, retail workers.
9. Remonte Comfort Sneakers
Remonte sneakers combine stylish European design with cushioned footbeds and practical side zippers for easy on and off — a favourite for fashion-forward comfort.
Best for: Fashion-forward everyday comfort.
10. Rieker Walking Shoes
Rieker shoes are lightweight, flexible, and engineered to reduce stress on the feet and joints — a smart pick for all-day walking shoes in Canada.
Best for: Travel, all-day walking, casual wear.
Best Shoes for Standing All Day
If you work in healthcare, education, retail, or hospitality, supportive footwear can significantly reduce fatigue and discomfort. New Balance, Aetrex, Dansko, ECCO, and Birkenstock are among the best options for long days on your feet in Canada.
Best Walking Sandals for Summer
Supportive sandals are a great choice when warmer weather arrives. Birkenstock, Aetrex, ECCO, KEEN, and Taos offer excellent arch support and cushioning for comfortable summer walking.
Add Support with Orthotics
For even greater comfort, consider adding a premium insole:
- Aetrex Orthotics — targeted arch support and cushioning.
- Birkenstock Blue Footbeds — improve alignment in a wide variety of shoes.
Orthotics are especially helpful for plantar fasciitis, flat feet, and general foot fatigue.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the best walking shoes for plantar fasciitis in Canada?
The Aetrex Danika and New Balance 1080 are top picks for plantar fasciitis, offering built-in arch support, cushioned footbeds, and stability to reduce heel pain. Adding an Aetrex orthotic insole can provide additional relief.
What should I look for in a walking shoe for all-day wear?
Look for a cushioned midsole, arch support, a breathable upper, and a removable footbed (to accommodate orthotics if needed). Lightweight construction also helps reduce fatigue over long periods.
Are walking shoes different from running shoes?
Yes — walking shoes are typically designed with a more flexible sole and a lower heel drop to support the heel-to-toe rolling motion of walking, while running shoes prioritize forward propulsion and impact absorption for higher-impact movement.
Shop the Best Walking Shoes in Canada
At Walking On A Cloud, we carefully select footwear that combines comfort, support, and style. Whether you're looking for walking shoes, travel sneakers, sandals, or orthotics, our knowledgeable staff can help you find the right fit.
Visit one of our 30 Ontario stores or shop online at www.walkingonacloudshoeshop.com to discover the best walking shoes for women and men in Canada.