Fitness
Fitness Editors Found The Only Walking Shoe Deals Worth Buying Before Black Friday
A few years ago, when my doctor told me my back issues meant I needed to stop competitive running and segue into low-impact cardio, I rolled my eyes. But I quickly learned that a long, brisk walk could rev up my heart rate and turn me into a puddle of sweat, just like my favorite runs.
While walking has had a glow-up lately as a buzzy form of exercise, Women’s Health editors have been testing walking shoes for years. We’ve tried all the latest and greatest models on under-desk treadmills, city streets, trails, and more, making us experts in the walking shoe space. But these sneakers don’t last forever, and it’s important to swap yours out for a newer pair every 300 to 500 miles to lower your risk of injury.
Walking Shoe Black Friday Deals
Luckily, now is the time to load up thanks to these early walking shoes Black Friday deals. With all the sales happening, it can be tough to know which sneakers are worth your time—even with a discounted price. We’re here to help: We found marked-down prices on sneakers we’ve tested and love, and broke them down for you below. Snap these winners up while they’re still on sale.
Why These Are Our Picks
At baseline, a good walking shoe should check off a few boxes. “The most important aspect of a walking shoe is something that has support across the middle of the arch,” says Melissa Lockwood, DPM, a podiatrist at Heartland Foot and Ankle Associates. This helps distribute pressure across your feet and promotes good alignment, lowering the odds of injury, she says—and all of the sneakers on this list check that box.
You can tell if a shoe has that support by doing a “twist test,” where you hold the shoe on the ends and try to twist it like you’re wringing out a washcloth. “The stiffer the shoe, the better,” Lockwood says. BTW, all of the shoes we chose passed the twist test.
Something else to look for, according to Richard H. Graves, DPM, a board-certified podiatrist at Sol Food and Ankle Centers: Good heel support to absorb shock as you’re cruising along.
If you’re looking for a highly cushioned shoe, consider the Hoka Bondi 8 sneaker. This is on rare discount and offers lightweight foam and an extended heel to cradle and support your foot, making it great for walking long distances. Night walkers will appreciate the reflective accents on the New Balance FuelCell Rebel V3, which make them easy to see in low light conditioners. We also love the brand’s proprietary midsole, which delivers a slightly bouncy feel.
If you prefer a shoe that’s even more affordable, I like the Skechers Women’s Go Walk Joy Sneaker with its easy on and off design, and breathable mesh to lower the risk of sweaty feet. I’m also a big fan of supportive slip-ons that that won’t feel like it’ll fly off mid-walk, like the the Ryka Women’s Jumpstart. This shoe has a stretchy upper and criss-cross stretch laces for a snug fit.
Walkers with narrow feet will appreciate the Brooks Ghost 15, which specifically offers narrow (and wide) sizes. And, if you just can’t be bothered with laces, the Allbirds Women’s Tree Dasher Relay are a great option, with its sleek design that’s easy to throw on during your early morning errands.
When Is Black Friday This Year?
Black Friday is technically on Friday, November 29, 2024. But while that was historically the big day when retailers slashed prices, many are already offering up discounts. These prices can change quickly so, if you find a pair of walking shoes that you like on mark-down, you’ll want to act fast.
SHOP AMAZON’S WALKING SHOE BLACK FRIDAY DEALS
Shop More Of Our Favorite November Deals
Apple Black Friday Deals | Amazon Under-Desk Treadmill Deals | Hoka November Deals | Sephora Savings Event | Amazon Beauty Haul Sale
Korin Miller is a freelance writer specializing in general wellness, sexual health and relationships, and lifestyle trends, with work appearing in Men’s Health, Women’s Health, Self, Glamour, and more. She has a master’s degree from American University, lives by the beach, and hopes to own a teacup pig and taco truck one day.