10 Best Walking Shoes For Back Pain 2025 in the United States

The Skechers Women's Go Walk Joy Sneaker is designed with comfort in mind, making it a suitable choice for those who suffer from back pain while walking. One of its standout features is the lightweight and responsive 5Gen midsole cushioning, which provides excellent shock absorption during your walks. The Skechers Air Cooled Goga Mat insole also adds to the comfort, offering breathable and high-rebound cushioning that can help alleviate pressure on your feet and back. Additionally, the breathable engineered mesh upper ensures good airflow, keeping your feet cool and comfortable.

In terms of fit and size, the shoe is available in a range of sizes and has a sleek design that adds to its appeal for everyday wear. However, it's essential to try them on to ensure a proper fit, as the sizing may differ from other brands.

These sneakers are lightweight and easy to maintain since they are machine washable. The vegan materials used in their construction are an added benefit for environmentally conscious consumers. If you prioritize cushioning and comfort for casual walking, the Skechers Women's Go Walk Joy Sneaker could be a good option, but it's wise to consider your specific needs for arch support and stability.

The New Balance Men's 608 V5 Casual Comfort Cross Trainer is designed with comfort and support in mind, making it a suitable option for those experiencing back pain. Its ABZORB midsole provides excellent cushioning and absorbs impact, which is crucial for minimizing stress on your back during walks. Additionally, the IMEVA midsole adds a nice balance of firmness and flexibility, allowing for natural foot movement, while the internal midsole shank offers solid midfoot support. This is particularly beneficial for maintaining stability while walking.

The shoe’s leather upper is both durable and easy to clean, which adds to its longevity. The Phantom Liner minimizes seams, potentially reducing irritation, making it comfortable for extended wear. The PU Foam insert contributes to the shoe's overall comfort, ensuring your feet feel cushioned throughout the day.

While the shoe is available in an X-Wide size option, which is a plus for those needing additional room, some users may find the fit to be a bit off depending on their specific foot shape. It's also worth noting that the shoe weighs 2.4 pounds, which might be heavier compared to other alternatives, possibly impacting comfort during longer walks.

For those who prioritize arch support and cushioning, the New Balance 608 V5 checks many boxes. If you walk regularly and need reliable support without sacrificing comfort, this shoe could be a great match. If you have very specific fit requirements or prefer a lighter shoe, exploring other options might be advisable.

The Brooks Women’s Ghost Max 2 is designed with both runners and walkers in mind, particularly those dealing with back pain. A key strength of this shoe is its exceptional cushioning, thanks to the nitrogen-infused DNA Loft v3 midsole foam. This feature ensures a soft and smooth ride, which is crucial for anyone seeking comfort during longer walks or runs. The stability provided by the broad base and raised sidewalls helps maintain a secure fit, which can be beneficial for those who require extra support to manage back pain. Additionally, the GlideRoll Rocker transition technology promotes effortless heel-to-toe transitions, making each step a bit easier.

However, while the cushioning and stability are remarkable, the shoe’s weight may be a consideration for some users. Heavier shoes can sometimes lead to fatigue over long distances, especially for those who are not used to wearing them. Fit and size can also be an issue; while the shoe is designed to accommodate various foot shapes, individuals with specific orthotic needs may need to ensure it aligns well with their requirements. Finally, the shoe's high stack height may take some getting used to if you're accustomed to a lower profile shoe.

The Brooks Women’s Ghost Max 2 is an excellent choice for those looking for a cushioned and stable shoe to help mitigate back pain during walking or running. Its supportive features cater well to individuals needing extra comfort, but potential buyers should consider their personal preferences regarding weight and fit before making a decision.