Apart from its extensive series of walking footwear, Brooks is also known for its walking shoes that offer exceptional cushioning, support, and style perfect when walking around the town. Whether walking is your primary form of exercise or you simply need walking footwear to help you get from point A to point B, this article is here to help you pick the most suitable Brooks shoes for walking you.
The Seattle-based running company owns some of the biggest names in the industry. From laid back everyday trainers to marathon shoes competing for podium spots, there’s a perfect pair of Brooks walking shoes for every runner. Click through our picks of the best brooks shoe for walking to find the right pair for you.
Top Picks:
Top 7 Best Brooks Shoe for Walking Reviews
1. Brooks Ghost 14 Women’s Running Shoe
- SOFT, SECURE, FIT: More strategic use of the 3D Fit Print upper technology provides structure that moves with the foot.
- SMOOTH, STABLE RIDE: No matter how your foot lands, our Segmented Crash Pad - an integrated system of shock absorbers - will cushion every step and stride for smooth heel-to-toe transitions.
- SUPPORT AND CUSHION: The Ghost 14 offers neutral support while providing high energizing cushioning. Ideal for road running, cross training, the gym or wherever you might want to take them! Predecessor: Ghost 13
- THIS WOMEN'S SHOE IS FOR: Runners looking for a smooth ride that won’t distract from the fun of the run. The Ghost 14 offers a simplified midsole construction which creates more seamless transitions. This Brooks Ghost 14 is a certified PDAC A5500 Diabetic shoe and has been granted the APMA Seal of Acceptance.
- BALANCED, SOFT CUSHIONING: BioMoGo DNA and DNA LOFT cushioning work together to provide a just-right softness underfoot without losing responsiveness and durability - yet it feels lighter than ever. DNA LOFT now makes up the entire midsole, for a softer, smoother, ride.
The Brooks Ghost 14’s simplified midsole construction creates more seamless transitions. The wider platform, and specially shaped medial post supports runners as they run from heel to toe. The visibly seamless knit upper offers a glove-like fit for stability and comfort, while the FreeFoam in the midsole provides responsive cushioning.
CUSHION
Cushioned experience is soft and protective.
Minimal Cushion – Recommended for the runner looking for a softer run without too much cushion.
Medium Cushion – Recommended for the runner looking for a soft run with cushion.
High Cushion – Recommended for the runner looking for a very soft and protective cushion.
ENERGIZE
Energized experience is responsive and springy, adding extra lift to your stride!
Minimal Energize – Recommended for the runner looking for minimal spring in their stride without feeling damp.
Medium Energize – Recommended for the runner looking for a springy and responsive feeling stride.
High Energize – Recommended for the runner looking for a very springy and responsive stride.
SPEED
Speed experience is lightweight, fast and streamlined, adding extra speed to your stride!
Minimal Speed – Recommended for the runner looking for speed in their stride with minimal cushion.
Medium Speed – Recommended for the runner looking for a fast and responsive feeling stride.
High Speed – Recommended for the runner looking for the lightest weight and most responsive feeling stride.
2. Brooks Women’s Ghost 13 Running Shoe
- SMOOTH, STABLE RIDE: No matter how your foot lands, our Segmented Crash Pad - an integrated system of shock absorbers - will cushion every step and stride for smooth heel-to-toe transitions.
- SOFT, SECURE, FIT: The newly engineered mesh and 3D Fit Print practically disappears on your foot with strategically placed stretch and structure.
- BALANCED, SOFT CUSHIONING: BioMoGo DNA and DNA LOFT cushioning work together to provide a just-right softness underfoot without losing responsiveness and durability - yet it feels lighter than ever.
- SUPPORT AND CUSHION: The neutral support type provides high energizing cushioning. Ideal for road running, cross training, the gym or wherever you might want to take them! Predecessor: Ghost 12
- THIS WOMEN'S SHOE IS FOR: The Ghost 13 is for runners looking for a reliable shoe that's soft and smooth. The Ghost 13 offers improved transitions for zero distractions so you can focus more on what matters most: your run. This Brooks Ghost 13 is a certified PDAC A5500 Diabetic shoe and has been granted the APMA Seal of Acceptance.
The Ghost 13 is a running shoe for runners who are looking for a reliable option that feels soft and smooth. It has an on-demand boost at heel strike coupled with full ground contact, so you can race the way you want, in full control of your pace. The Brooks Women’s Ghost 13 Running Shoe has a custom, contoured fit and high-density memory foam in the heel for cushioned comfort. Breathable materials keep you cool in your runs, with a fast outsole for an energized experience.
BALANCED, SOFT CUSHIONING
BioMoGo DNA and DNA LOFT cushioning work together to provide a just-right softness underfoot without losing responsiveness and durability yet it feels lighter than ever. DNA LOFT now extends beyond the heel, all the way to the forefoot, for an easy transition from landing to toe-off.
SOFT, SECURE, FIT
The newly engineered mesh and 3D Fit Print practically disappears on your foot with strategically placed stretch and structure. The new Engineered Air Mesh upper hugs the foot for a secure but still breathable fit.
SMOOTH, STABLE RIDE
No matter how your foot lands, our Segmented Crash Pad an integrated system of shock absorbers will cushion every step and stride for smooth heel-to-toe transitions.
3. Brooks Adrenaline GTS 20
- BALANCED, SOFT CUSHIONING: The DNA LOFT Crash Pad cushions each footfall and works with BioMoGo DNA to adapt to your every stride.
- THIS WOMEN'S SHOE IS FOR: Runners who need a perfect blend of support, cushion, flexibility, and reliability. The modernized, streamlined design satisfies runners who crave a low-profile look.
- MODERNIZED FIT: A new streamlined, engineered mesh upper with 3D Fit Print offers the structure and proven fit the Adrenaline is known for-without excess bulk.
- GUIDERAILS HOLISTIC SUPPORT SYSTEM: We've shifted our focus beyond the feet to the most injury-prone part of a runner’s body: the knees. GuideRails keep you moving comfortably by keeping excess movement in check.
- SUPPORT AND CUSHION: Provides just the right amount of stability and support, great for overpronation while providing high energizing cushioning. Ideal for road running, cross training, the gym or wherever you might want to take them! Predecessor: Adrenaline GTS 19
The Adrenaline GTS 20 is the kind of shoe that runners love. It’s got enough support for everyday use and long-distance runs, but plenty of cushioning to keep your feet comfortable. Geared towards stability, the coolest part about this shoe is its unmatched versatility: it’s a great option for both pronators and supinators.
The Adrenaline GTS 20 features a modernized, streamlined design that satisfies runners who crave a low-profile look. Lightweight and breathable, it offers maximum control with enhanced flexibility in key areas for a more efficient stride.
BALANCED, SOFT CUSHIONING
The DNA LOFT Crash Pad cushions each footfall and works with BioMoGo DNA to adapt to your every stride.
MODERNIZED FIT
A new streamlined, engineered mesh upper with 3D Fit Print offers the structure and proven fit the Adrenaline is known for — without excess bulk.
GUIDERAILS HOLISTIC SUPPORT SYSTEM
We’ve shifted our focus beyond the feet to the most injury-prone part of a runner’s body: the knees. GuideRails keep you moving comfortably by keeping excess movement in check.
4. Brooks Women’s Revel 4 Running Shoe
- THIS WOMEN'S SHOE IS FOR: For runners looking for a shoe with modern looks and performance features to make running feel springy and fun, the Revel 4 delivers all-day versatility with a responsive feeling perfect for putting in miles on the road.
- BALANCED, SOFT CUSHIONING: BioMoGo DNA cushioning adapts to your stride, weight, and speed to help protect you by deflecting impact away from your body.
- QUICK TRANSITIONS: An updated arrow-point pattern in the outsole lets your foot move from heel to toe quickly.
- FRESH LOOK: The Fit Knit upper provides a fashion-forward aesthetic with a secure, distraction-free fit.
- WEAR TESTERS SAY: “The shape of the shoe promotes a fluid motion from forefoot striking to toe-off. I am running quickly in them without much extra effort and the ride is a good contributor to that.”
Runners looking for a shoe with modern looks and performance features to make running feel springy and fun will love the Brooks Women’s Revel 4 Running Shoe. The Revel 4 utilizes an upgraded plush lining, which makes you feel like you’re wearing clouds on your feet. A midsole that is responsive and powerful yet forgiving, so you can run confidently through any distance. A flexible upper allows your foot to move naturally, while reflective accents keep you visible in low light conditions.
BALANCED, SOFT CUSHIONING
BioMoGo DNA, our proprietary cushioning, adapts to your stride, weight and speed. Why? So it can help protect you by deflecting impact away from your body.
FRESH LOOK
The Fit Knit upper provides a fashion-forward aesthetic with a secure, distraction-free fit that’s perfect for work, working out, or post-work activities.
QUICK TRANSITIONS
An updated arrow-point pattern in the outsole lets your foot move from heel to toe quickly.
5. Brooks Women’s Glycerin 19 Neutral Running Shoe
- SMOOTH TRANSITIONS: The plush transition zone makes every move from heel to toe feel incredibly soft and smooth.
- PLUSH FIT: The plush feel of an internal stretch bootie surrounds your foot and moves and expands with your stride. The engineered mesh upper enhances the fit.
- NEUTRAL SUPPORT: Provides neutral support while offering the maximum amount of cushioning. Ideal for road running, cross training, the gym or wherever you might want to take them! Predecessor: Glycerin 18. Look for the Brooks Glycerin GTS 19 for the same style with added Support.
- THIS WOMEN'S SHOE IS FOR: The Glycerin 19 is perfect for runners who think there is no such thing as too much cushioning. The plush internal fit and soft transitions keep runners surrounded by softness. This Brooks Women's Glycerin 19 is a certified PDAC A5500 Diabetic shoe and has been granted the APMA Seal of Acceptance.
- SUPER-SOFT CUSHIONING: The ultimate in softness and supreme comfort, designed for runners who want pillowy soft cushioning. The Glycerin 19 with DNA LOFT offers our most plush underfoot experience yet — so runners enjoy comfort that goes the distance.
The Glycerin 19 is perfect for runners who think there is no such thing as too much cushioning. Built on the foundation of numbers, which are engineered to increase ground contact and distribute impact forces throughout both the heel and forefoot. It also has blown rubber under the forefoot to enhance cushioning.
The Glycerin 19 is designed to bring softness, support and comfort to every run. With a plush internal fit and a soft midsole, this shoe has been engineered with Flex Transition Technology in order to create a seamless transition between heel and toe that feels smooth and effortless. The result is a shoe that delivers amazing comfort from beginning to end.
SUPER SOFT CUSHION
Reconfigured midsole has even more DNA LOFT cushioning for our softest-ever ride, without sacrificing responsiveness or durability.
PLUSH INTERIOR
Our mesh upper and plush interior liner surround your foot for a snug but flexible fit.
SMOOTH TRANSITIONS
Full-length DNA LOFT through the midsole makes the move from heel to toe feel incredibly soft and smooth.
6. Brooks Men’s Launch 8 Neutral Running Shoe
- LIGHTWEIGHT CUSHIONING: Brooks lightest BioMoGo DNA midsole cushioning provides a fast ride without any extra weight - perfect for days when you are working on your speed.
- NEUTRAL SUPPORT: Streamlined yet cushioned, with neutral support, this shoe hits the sweet spot between a race flat and a standard trainer.
- BREATHABLE AND SLEEK FIT: The new one-piece mesh upper creates a closer-to-foot-feel that is more breathable than ever before.
- QUICK TRANSITIONS: The Midfoot Transition Zone is shaped to go from heel to toe quickly. Newly added blown rubber in the forefoot propels you forward for a faster ride.
- THIS MEN'S SHOE IS FOR: The Launch 8 is for neutral runners who want a lightweight shoe with a fast, fun, ride. Durable enough for training but light enough for race day, the Launch 8 is designed to keep up on every run. Predecessor: Brooks Launch 7.
The Brooks Men’s Launch 8 is for neutral running enthusiasts who enjoy a lightweight ride and a fast, fun ride. The Launch 8 features a breathable mesh upper for agility and lightweight cushioning with ample forefoot support, making this one of the most comfortable and durable training shoes on the market. Ideal for both long runs and speed work, the Launch 8 provides support where you need it most.
LIGHTWEIGHT CUSHIONING
Our lightest BioMoGo DNA midsole cushioning provides a fast ride without any extra weight.
ENHANCED BREATHABILITY
A new air mesh upper creates a closer-to-foot feel that’s more breathable than ever before.
QUICK TRANSITIONS
Added blown rubber in the forefoot propels you forward for a faster ride.
7. Brooks Addiction 14
- GENEROUS FIT: Sometimes you need a little extra room to move around in. So if you need a roomier shoe for flat or high-volume feet or specialized orthotics, your search is over.
- SUPER-SOFT CUSHIONING: BioMoGo DNA, our proprietary cushioning,adapts to your stride, weight and speed. Why? So it can help protect you by reducing impact on your joints.
- THIS MEN'S SHOE IS FOR: With its maximum support and generous fit, the Addiction is great for both runners and walkers. If you’re looking for comfort or pain relief and haven’t found it in standard performance running shoes, this shoe might be your perfect match. This Brooks Addiction 14 is a certified PDAC A5500 Diabetic shoe and has been granted the APMA Seal of Acceptance.
- WEAR TESTERS SAY: "I like the fit and cushioning of the shoes. The shoes were extremely comfortable when you first put them on. This is one of the key indicators that I will mostly likely buy the shoe. Also, the cushioning felt like it provides plenty of support."
- MAXIMUM SUPPORT: Our Extended Progressive Diagonal Rollbar (PDRB) is a support system for your entire body. It strategically positions arch support to guide and keep your body in its natural path of motion.
The Addiction is the ultimate shoe for runners and walkers who want a shoe that offers maximum stability and support. This shoe features our iconic RideGrip sticky sole for secure traction on a variety of surfaces, so you can push yourself harder than ever. This is a great option for ultra runners looking for maximum support and stability. This shoe performs well on long runs, training runs and even casual walks.
SOFT CUSHIONING
BioMoGo DNA, our proprietary cushioning, adapts to your stride, weight and speed. Why? So it can help protect you by reducing impact on your joints.
GENEROUS FIT
Sometimes you need a little extra room to move around in. So if you need a roomier shoe for flat or high-volume feet or specialized orthotics, your search is over.
MAXIMUM SUPPORT
Our Extended Progressive Diagonal Rollbar (PDRB) is a support system for your entire body. It strategically positions arch support to guide and keep your body in its natural path of motion.
What Are the Different Types of Walking Shoes?
When you go to an athletic shoe store or shop online, you can find these different types of shoes. But once more, if a running shoe is flexible, light, and doesn’t have a sharply flared heel, don’t be afraid to purchase one for walking.
Motion Control Shoes
The stiffest shoes are motion-control shoes. They are intended to prevent overpronation, hence they are rigid by design. They are sturdy but weighty. A dual-density midsole with the denser material on the inside of the foot may be used in many that are constructed on a straight last to help correct pronation.
Motion control shoes are used for overpronators and heavier individuals. These shoes frequently work well for people with flat feet as well. The issue with most motion control shoes is that they frequently have thick heels, which can obstruct the rolling motion of walking from heel to toe.
Lightweight Performance Shoes for Neutral Feet
People with neutral feet are said to not overpronate. They can achieve the desired speed and performance thanks to the flexibility and lightness of these shoes. However, they might not provide enough support for longer walks, and heavier walkers tend to put more wear and tear on them.
Cushioned Shoes
Shoes with cushioning are flexible, have weak support, and have the softest midsoles. They are often constructed on a semi-curved or curved last.
People who do not overpronate or require additional support should use these shoes. High arches frequently function well in these shoes. Once more, a thick heel may prevent heel-to-toe rolling.
Stability Shoes
A compromise shoe style is stability shoes. When compared to motion control shoes, they are more flexible while yet offering adequate support and durability. A dual-density midsole may be used for support, and they are frequently constructed on a semi-curved last.
People with midweights and mild motion control issues should wear stability shoes. Though not as thick as a motion control shoe, they frequently have hefty heels.
Racewalking Shoes
These shoes, which resemble racing flats, are made to accommodate the motion of race walking. They typically do not have a thick midsole or outsole lugs or knobs.
Running flats have a very low level of durability, stability, or cushioning. But it also means that they are lightweight, flexible, and have a little heel.
Give your feet and body time to adjust if you wish to test racewalking shoes but are used to a more supporting or cushioned shoe. Before switching to a racing flat, consider a shoe with less support and padding first.
Lightweight Hiking and Trail Shoes
For day hikes and trail walking on rough or natural surfaces, they are the finest options. You don’t need the added weight and ankle support of heavier boots if you aren’t hauling a big load.
The soles of trail shoes are made to shield your feet from pebbles and provide good stability and traction over uneven terrain. In comparison to boots, trail running shoes are meant to be more breathable, cushioned, and comfortable.
Walking Sandals
Depending on their design and the surface you’re walking on, sandals can be an excellent choice. You might choose a walking sandal that is suitable for fitness walking if you knew what to look for in one.
Flip flops are not the best footwear for exercising in, but if you must wear them, learn how to pick the best styles for your feet.
Comfort Shoes
These shoes are made with support and cushioning if you must stand all day at work in order to keep your feet comfortable.
How should a walking shoe fit?
If you’re now persuaded that you require special walking shoes, here are four suggestions for choosing the best pair for you:
1. Walking shoes should be comfortable right away
Even though it may seem simple, a shoe is not a good walking shoe for you if it doesn’t feel right on your foot right away.
Most certainly all of us have told ourselves, “These shoes simply need to break in a little,” at least once. But don’t do it while wearing your walking shoes.
Walking in the same shoes can easily result in painful blisters and calluses if a brief lap around the shoe store or your house is enough to cause foot agony.
2. Your feet should have room, but not too much room
Every shoe manufacturer has a slightly unique design for their shoes. No matter the brand or size, while picking a walking shoe, make sure it feels comfortable.
First, the shoe’s toe box should be roomy enough for your toes to move about comfortably but not too much. Make sure your big toe is at least half an inch apart from the front of the shoe as a general guideline.
Additionally important is the shoe’s side-to-side space. You might need to look for walking shoes with “wide” size selections if you have a broader foot.
Finally, if one of your foot is a little bit bigger than the other, you might need to get a half size larger to make sure the shoes fit both of your feet comfortably.
Bring the socks you’ll be wearing on your walks with you when you go shoe shopping because sock thickness might alter how a shoe fits.
3. Your walking shoes should match your arch type
By redistributing the pressure put on your foot as you take a step, the foot arch supports you. Your arch also aids in how securely your foot engages with the various surfaces you come across when walking.
However, not all foot arches are created equal, and this might have an impact on the kind of walking shoe that will probably suit you the best.
The three overarching foot arch types are as follows:
- A foot with a normal arch is often biomechanically sound (look for a shoe with a firm but flexible midsole and heel stability)
- Flat arch: connected to overly active feet (look for a shoe that provides plenty of stability and motion control)
- Low-quality shock absorption due to high arch (look for a shoe with plenty of cushioning and stability)
Asking a salesperson at a speciality shoe store for advice is one of the greatest ways to figure out your foot arch type. This may be particularly crucial if you’re looking for a walking shoe that works best for pronation issues, such as underpronation, which occurs when your heels roll outward, or overpronation, which occurs when your feet roll inward excessively, which can happen with high or flat arches, respectively.
You can also quickly discover your foot type on your own, though. Put some water on your feet and stand on some dry cardboard or cement. You can determine your arch type in general from your footprint.
4. Cushion and traction are important with walking shoes
The shoes you select should give stability and grip in addition to reducing the stress exerted on your feet as they contact the ground because you will be walking.
Each stride is padded by the footbed of a decent walking shoe, which should also feel like it is supporting your foot’s arch appropriately.
Another layer of cushion in a shoe is the midsole, which is typically formed of foam, air, or gel and works to further cushion the foot’s impact with the ground.
A decent walking shoe’s outer sole offers sufficient traction, naturally assisting your foot in grabbing the ground under you while you walk.
The heel of a decent walking shoe also provides support and cushioning for your ankle and Achilles tendon.
As you walk in a shoe, its stability, grip, and cushioning deteriorate. It’s time for new walking shoes after traveling between 300 and 400 miles in your old ones.
Fianal Words
This post was all about the best brooks shoe for walking available on the market, so if you’re struggling to find the right pair, now you know where to look. We hope that this guide has helped you pick out the perfect pair of walking shoes for your needs. These shoes sound pretty amazing, and we think you’ll be pleased if you give them a try. If we missed any of your favorites in our list, let us know about them in the comments.