Standing or walking on concrete for long periods of time takes a toll on your feet and your entire body. To relieve this pain, you should wear good walking shoes suitable for concrete.
To help you out, we’ve put together some recommendations you can use on a tough day at work or during your next walking session. We put these sneakers through intensive testing before even endorsing them. Read on for life-changing suggestions to make walking and standing on concrete more fun and enjoyable.
Bonus tip: According to Oldani and Sharkey, the best shoes for walking on concrete are those with excellent cushioning and good shock absorption. Shoes that distribute pressure evenly and absorb maximum shock are ideal for walking on concrete, says Oldani. It is important to have adequate shock absorption across the bottom of the heel and ball of the foot.
Best Walking Shoes for Long-Distance on Concrete
A shoe that provides the right support and bounce, especially on concrete surfaces.
1. Hoka Bondi 8
Hoka Bondi 8 is our first choice when it comes to the best sneakers for long distances on concrete. Oldani also recommends this product from Hoka, a popular running shoe brand. Because it is a multipurpose shoe. Balanced cushioning and shock absorption from heel to toe. This product also comes in a variety of sizes to help accommodate bunions and hammer toe deformities.
In fact, the Bondi 8 sneakers have the American Podiatric Medical Association (APMA) certification of approval for promoting foot health. Features a removable cushioned insole, breathable mesh construction, and internal heel counter for a secure, supportive fit.
2. Hoka Clifton LS
The Hoka Clifton LS is our top choice among shoes for walking on concrete all day. The Hoka Clifton LS gave us exactly what we were looking for when standing on hard surfaces for long periods of time: an incredibly cushioned, supportive and durable platform. We’ve put together and lab tested the best concrete sneakers and found the Clifton LS to be the best for all-day wear.
Our feet cannot absorb enough of the generous foam that protects our legs from the impact of hard surfaces. We measured the stack with a caliper to average just over 35.2/27.0mm. Moderate rocker paved the way for smoother transitions.
Amazingly, these monstrous beasts feel stable while walking. It’s soft enough to wear all day, yet sturdy enough to not easily collapse when moved from side to side. Our durometer checks a balanced 21.3 HA. The midsole provides a very generous landing platform for a secure footing. The heel and forefoot area of 122.8/95.5mm is one of the largest in our lab.
The Durabrasion Rubber underfoot impressed us with its excellent traction and abrasion resistance. In all laboratory tests, the results indicate a sturdy sole. Our durometer shows an above-average 80.5HC, which is 1.1mm thicker than the average sneaker. It performed very well in Dremel testing, showing only 0.6mm of indentation, providing 60% more resistance than average.
The upper is made of natural leather and suede for durability, but is less breathable. I find the Clifton LS is not suitable for warm weather.
3. Asics Gel-Halo 25
The Asics Gel-Nimbus 25 shoes have Sharkey’s stamp of approval. These neutral running shoes feature a breathable knit upper that hugs the foot for a soft, comfortable feel and a flexible knit tongue that extends around the ankle. All of these features (and more!) make these shoes especially suitable for long distance running and walking.
It’s well-cushioned, comfortable, and light, so you won’t feel the road at all! “It’s like walking on air.” said one Amazon shopper. They’re also a favorite of Prevention’s senior commercial editor, who loves long-distance running and tested the shoes while training for marathons.
4. Brooks Adrenaline GTS 23
We love the Brooks Adrenaline GTS 23. Because these are great shoes for walking on concrete with the best arch support. The most sidewalk-friendly and arch-friendly sneaker we’ve come across is the Brooks Adrenaline GTS 23. These shoes will definitely promote proper foot placement as well as cushion the impact whenever your feet hit the concrete. The cause of foot complaints we commonly experience!
Using a 34.1mm and 21.5mm heel and forefoot midsole height, the Adrenaline GTS 23’s heel-to-toe drop was found to be equivalent to 12.6mm. Not only is it 43.2% steeper than standard, but it also has plenty of cushioning, especially for hill stompers. As for midsole softness, we got a measurement of 19.5 HA. This means they are 18.8% softer than most midsoles and provide structural reinforcement to the arch without sacrificing comfort.
We also liked the snug fit of the shoes, which meant we didn’t have to worry about them biting into our shoes even after long walks on the pavement. When measuring the widest toe area of the shoe, the caliper read 99.9 mm. This gives you 1.8mm more space than average, allowing you to have an uncompressed foot.
5. SKECHERS GO WALK ARCH fit
The Skechers Go Walk Arch Fit is one of the most popular everyday running shoes for concrete long distances with arch support thanks to its podiatrist-certified arch support that keeps your feet comfortable. I tested the Motion Breeze women’s shoes, and the men’s series has the same midsole technology and arch support.
I was amazed at the comfort of these shoes. After a long day of over 22,000 steps, I still didn’t have any of the dull ache or pain you feel at the end of a long walk.
Plus, thanks to the elastic GO WALK midsole, I felt refreshed throughout the hike. The upper doesn’t provide enough protection from impacts or brambles, and it’s not waterproof, so these shoes are best suited for urban environments.
6. Brooks Ghost 15
The Brooks Ghost 15 is a perfect example of a shoe for walking on concrete with the best cushioning. There is a reason why the Brooks Ghost 15 running shoes are loved. Suitable for both running and walking, this neutral shoe is made with the brand’s special “DNA Loft” cushioning for excellent shock absorption and an ultra-plush, lightweight feel. This means it provides soft, supportive comfort while walking. Rough surface like concrete. As well as a variety of colors, they are also available in a variety of width options (including medium, wide, narrow, and extra-wide) to fit different types of feet.
Plus, these Brooks are a go-to shoe for Prevention’s commercial editor Samantha Jones. “After wearing these sneakers for thousands of miles on concrete, dirt, gravel, and even on the treadmill, I’ve found that they are the most versatile sneakers on the market, whether you’re an experienced runner or just a walker. Someone who spends hours on your feet,” she said. “Within the first few steps, I noticed that the shoe felt incredibly natural. It felt like my foot was stretching naturally.”
Thanks to the Ghost 15’s thick midsole, your feet won’t receive any shock every time you hit the ground. Using the caliper, we achieved a heel stack height of 36.3mm and a forefoot height of 23.1mm, which is 9.3% chunkier than average. This is 1.2 mm short of average. Overall, this is enough to protect us from the hardness of concrete. However, forefoot stack height may not be sufficient for forefoot strikers. In this case, I recommend finding another pair.
Read Also:- What are the Best Shoes for Painful Feet?
7. Hoka Transportation
During our search for the best concrete shoes, we looked for ones that were sturdy enough to withstand a hard day at work. We found what we were looking for in the Hoka Transport: comfortable cushioning, a springy sole, and a secure fit. These factors caught our attention when we tested them in the lab and on the streets, and gave Hoka Transport a clear edge over other products.
Hoka Transport’s cushioning felt heavenly as we blasted down the street. We looked into this further in our lab and ran the durometer on the midsole to see how it compared to other shoes. After performing four tests to improve accuracy, we got a reading of 21.9HA, which is 23% softer than regular sneakers, a real treat for those who want a little more comfort on their feet.
Concrete can be a little more abrasive than other surfaces, so we found it great that the Hoka Transport’s soles were well protected. Durometer testing of the sole resulted in a reading of 81.9HC, making the shoe 13% harder than average. Even if you do get scratches, the soles of the Hoka Transport are thick enough to eliminate any worries about wear and tear. The thickness was measured using a caliper in the lab and the result was 3.7mm. This is an impressive figure considering that the average sneaker has a sole thickness of 1.7mm.
Another surprising thing we found about the Hoka Transport is the way the foot locks into place. After methodically pushing and prodding the heel counter, we rated the Hoka Transport’s stiffness a 3 out of 5 (1 being the most flexible). It is sturdy enough to reliably withstand ankle shaking. We also found that the semi-gusseted tongue hugged the foot well, providing better lockdown.
One thing we should warn you about is the Hoka Transport’s lack of breathability. The performance of air inflow and outflow is worse than that of regular sneakers, so they cannot be recommended to those who spend the day sweating a lot.
8. Hoka Bondi SR
Hoka Bondi SR is the best anti-slip shoe for walking on concrete. Out of all the time I spent testing the Hoka Bondi SR on the streets and pavement, I encountered zero clumsy hiccups. That’s because its tread stays planted to the ground with each step and the reassuring lateral limits ensure you don’t have to worry about spraining your ankles.
Upon inspection of the Bondi SR’s outsole, it was found to exceed the average firmness by only 1.1% at 73.1HC. On our asphalt jungle trek, this provided incredible traction even when the surface was wet.
Our sure feet lead to the stability our shoes provide. The sturdy construction, which earned a 5/5 in our torsional rigidity test, combined with a sturdy heel counter that barely gave in when forced to compress, ensured the foot stayed in a neutral position.
Continuing to walk on solid ground is already difficult in itself. This is why I found the stiffness of the Bondi SR a bit hard on my feet. The stiffness of the shoe is also evident in laboratory tests where the shoe is flexed using a digital force gauge. It withstands bending with a force of 52.7N and is wound 192.8% tighter than average! If you want a smooth stride progression, I recommend skipping the Bondi SR.
9. Keen WK400
Of all the sneakers we tested on concrete, the KEEN WK400 proved to be the shakiest shoe. The outsole is infused with luxurious comfort and sturdiness, paving the way for smooth, natural steps.
Soft, responsive cushioning makes the ride enjoyable. According to the durometer, it is 12.0% softer than average. Furthering the impact protection is a very generous 45.7mm heel, one of the tallest we’ve seen. At the other end is a modest forefoot that offers an impressive 21.4mm of drop. A steeper incline makes your forward motion smoother and reduces pressure on your Achilles tendon and foot.
For added stability, the WK400 features a sturdy plate under the midsole that helps maintain the shape of the KEEN CURVE. This stiffness is essential to maintain forward momentum, and bending tests show it is 60.8% more resistant than average.
Lab tests show that the rubber on the sole is 12.7% harder and 2.4mm thicker than average. Our observations further support its durability, as it looked like new despite our rigorous testing. We also found it slip-free on moderate trails and provided plenty of protection.
Our cut-in-half shoes reveal a double layer of fabric on the upper, which explains the lack of airflow on hot, humid days. It is best to use this pair in moderate and cool temperatures.
10. Nike Motiva
After walking and pounding concrete streets for long periods of time, we found Nike’s Motiva to offer the best comfortable experience. Our lab reveals why with generous, plush cushioning, a unique geometry that promotes smooth transitions, and a grippy, long-lasting outsole.
Motiva brought clouds to the streets with lower-than-average density and above-average stack height. Our calipers feature a 34.9mm heel that absorbs much of the impact of repetitive landings. Meanwhile, the durometer reveals the Motiva’s advanced 15.0 HA foam, which accounts for its all-day comfort and leg-protecting properties.
Motiva increases comfort with a natural, smooth stride thanks to its prominent rocker. It has raised curved edges that lead us forward. A certain level of resistance is required to maintain this rocking motion. As determined by bending tests, Motiva is 43.1% more resistant than average.
Underneath the shoe is a sole that offers a good combination of traction and durability. There were no issues with traction, even on wet surfaces, and the shoes showed very little wear after extensive testing. Our laboratory has confirmed that the compound is a solid 92.0 HC with a thickness of 3.0 mm, both above average and with a long service life.
Unfortunately, taking these shoes out on a hot day isn’t the best idea as they aren’t very breathable. Best used during cold seasons.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use sneakers when walking on concrete?
Many sneakers double as concrete sneakers, but not all shoes provide sufficient cushioning and support for concrete and other hard surfaces.
Running shoes also often have bright colors and sporty aesthetics, which aren’t always ideal for work or travel.
Concrete sneakers feature a versatile and stylish design with excellent cushioning and support.
Among our road running shoes, you’ll find hundreds of shoes that are great for walking on concrete.
How often should I replace my concrete sneakers?
It is generally recommended that you replace your running shoes every 300 to 500 miles. However, signs of wear and decreased cushioning may be indicators for replacement.
Conclusion
The right shoes for walking on concrete will depend on your preferred fit, comfort, style, and many other factors, but in general, the ideal shoe will provide maximum cushioning and shock absorption to keep your feet comfortable and pain-free for miles. Most running and walking shoes are designed to be worn on hard surfaces like concrete or asphalt, making them an excellent choice. Popular options for shoes you can wear on concrete include choices from comfortable running shoe brands such as Brooks, Hoka, Asics, New Balance, Skechers, and more.