Consistency breeds success. And this is one philosophy workout enthusiasts hold quite dear. No weather condition or distance from the gym should hold you back from running and walking. You can do this on a treadmill, right? Of course.
And that brings us to another agenda-the shoe for treadmill walking. Despite not being a super-charged activity, treadmill walking needs to be treated with the same attention as other gym activities by wearing the right shoe and sticking to your weight loss diet.
If you are new to indoor running on the belt, it’s possible you don’t know the right footwear to wear. Well, today is your lucky day. In this review, we are going to cover some of the best shoes for walking on treadmill.
Our list features only the most recommended and podiatrist-inspired collections that are sure to deliver nothing but the best experience. Remember to read all the way to the end as we share some insights on how to go about picking the right treadmill shoes. Without wasting a second, let’s the soldier on to the reviews section.
Table of Contents
Best Shoes for Treadmill Walking 2022
Here are some amazing choices that most sportspeople and trainers recommend:
1. New Balance Men’s 1080v8 Fresh Foam Running Shoe
New Balance’s mantra ‘our goal is to help you achieve yours is best reflected in New Balance Men’s 1080v8 Fresh Foam Running Shoe. This a modern design running shoe with not only a mind-blowing design but practical features as well.
Starting with the top, the shoe is put together seamlessly (yes, it has no seams). The absence of stitches minimizes chafing and instances where seams dig into people’s feet. And thanks to fresh foam addition and a smooth midsole, this pair absorbs a lot of impacts making it one of the best shoes for walking and running on a treadmill.
New Balance Men’s 1080v8 Fresh Foam Running Shoe comes with an outsole with traction-enhancing flex grooves. This is a celebrated design that has seen many New Balance shoes get picked up by many trainers and workout addicts.
The shoe has a good rating, is fairly priced, and truly dependable for treadmill walking and running. There are about 5 pairs available. New Balance Men’s 1080v9, is a bit of a beast and features an ortholite sockliner, full-length fresh foam midsole, and a premium double Jacquard upper. The shoe is available in more vibrant color choices and this is why it costs a bit more.
Features
- Synthetic outsole
- Engineered mesh
- Bootie construction
- No-sew material
- Reconfigured flex grooves
- Lace design
- Blown rubber outsole
Pros:
- Incredible comfort
- Soft and breathable mesh upper
- True to size
- Affordable compared to its latest model (v9)
- Lightweight performance
- Orthotic-friendly
Cons:
- No major issues
Here is what you can expect from New Balance Men’s 1080v8 Fresh Foam Running Shoe; sufficient comfort, flexibility, breathability, and lightweight performance. Besides treadmill walking, the shoe features a versatile design to tag along for other exercises.
2. Under Armour Men’s Charged Assert 8 Running Shoe
One of the most tried and true walking and running shoes is Under Armour Men’s Charged Assert 8 Running Shoe. With over 10k reviews on amazon and thousands of others online, there is no doubt that this too is a dependable workout sneaker.
But you are probably wondering; what’s so special about this shoe? Well, let’s set the record straight. This has a mesh top like other sneakers but the material used includes Elastane, giving it an unparalleled level of flexibility that comes in handy during running.
Under Armour Men’s Charged Assert 8 Running Shoe features a lightweight mesh, an EVA sockliner, and a charged midsole for comfort like no other. Charged midsoles not only cushion the feet but return the energy back which is quite convenient for those expecting to click so many miles on the treadmill.
Features
- A mix of polyester and Elastane
- Synthetic outsole
- Mesh upper
- Synthetic outsole
- Charged cushioning midsole
- EVA sockliner
Pros:
- Next-level impact absorption
- Returns energy back to the feet
- Bold and beautiful color prints
- Affordable yet performance-tuned
- Fits as expected
Cons:
- Nothing worrisome
You don’t have to go for a pricey ‘Nikey’ tag just to experience exceptional performance. Guess what, Under Armour Men’s Charged Assert 8 Running Shoe can actually do pretty well. This is among the few sneakers that have insane support from its previous buyers. Plus, it is nowhere close to $100.
3. Mizuno Women’s Wave Inspire 16 Road Running Shoe
Mizuno Women’s Wave Inspire 16 is a favorite stability trainer for most women in need of a dependable workhorse. First and foremost, it takes on a narrower, sleeker feminine design that is sure to fit snugly.
This shoe perfectly strikes the right balance between cushioning and lightness. It is neither too heavy nor too thin. This design conveniently allows it to be used for treadmill walking and full-blast marathon running.
Mizuno Women’s Wave Inspire 16 also comes with an updated engineered mesh upper for a soft, breathable fit during intense workouts. The midsole is fairly pronounced to lessen the impact and boost treadmill performance. The shoe is available in a few more colors (albeit not as splashy).
Features
- Padded collar and tongue
- Lace design
- Low-top sneaker
- Internal toe cap
- Premium sockliner
- U4ic responsive midsole
- Durable carbon rubber outsole
Pros:
- Stress-relieving dynamotion technology
- Optimal shock reduction
- Ultra-responsive performance
- Offers great breathability
- Facilitates smooth heel-to-toe transition
- Great traction
Cons:
- A little pricey
Mizuno Women’s Wave Inspire 16 is the latest invention aimed at those who do plenty of walking and running on a treadmill and outdoors. It is lightweight, well-cushioned, and breathable just like other workout shoes. From our end, we think the pricing is still reasonable as it lasts a little longer than most running sneakers.
4. Adidas Men’s Cloudfoam Lite Racer Running Shoe
So you don’t have a lot of bucks to splash on the best treadmill shoes? Here is an interesting choice for you- Adidas Men’s Cloudfoam Lite Racer. As the name suggests, this shoe is extremely light and thus meant for walking or short runs.
Looks do matter when it comes to gym sneakers. We see people posting ‘doppest’ pictures of them in workout suits and they usually do look heavenly. This Adidas sneaker can make you look just as amazing.
Adidas Men’s Cloudfoam Lite Racer features Cloudfoam padding on both the midsole and outsole for superior cushioning and bounces back. In case you sweat a lot, the top is breathable and that’s beside the included moisture-absorbing Ortholite sockliner.
The sneaker arrives in white, black, and a few neutral shades and is available in both men’s and women’s choices.
Features
- Textile material
- Closed mesh upper
- Ortholite sockliner
- Cloudfoam midsole and outsole
- Heel pull tab
Pros:
- Pocket-friendly price tag
- Superior lightweight performance
- Nicely padded for comfort
- Fully breathable
- Good traction
Cons:
- No major quality flaws
If you love Adidas sneakers, one that could help you enjoy your treadmill walking sessions is Adidas Men’s Cloudfoam Lite Racer. 85% of customer testimonials indicate that the shoe is comfortable, supportive, and lightweight for treadmill walking and running. It’s also one of the most affordable choices in this review.
5. ASICS Women’s Gel-Quickwalk 3 Walking Shoe
If you are here for a strictly walking shoe, then you should look into ASICS Women’s Gel-Quickwalk 3. This is another great shoe that brings performance, value, and great looks all in one package.
Being the third incarnation in a series of walking shoes, this baddie features a completely redesigned synthetic/ leather upper. Rearfoot GEL padding is added to the rear of the shoe forming a thicker, impact-absorbing layer that fully cushions the heel. This works hand in hand with the cushioned midsole to ensure comfortable treadmill sessions.
ASICS Women’s Gel-Quickwalk 3 is a great pick for walking anything distance between 2-4 miles on a treadmill. You could go longer but the shoe’s padding will wear down faster. Also, it seems to run smaller so go a half size up (or whole if you wear special orthotics).
Features
- Leather/synthetic upper
- Rearfoot Gel technology
- Cushioned midsole
- Lace design
- Padded opening
- Strictly for walking
Pros:
- Great comfort
- Reliable ankle and knee support
- Durable construction (you can choose between leather and synthetic)
- Affordable price range
- Optimally breathable
Cons:
- Runs small
- Strictly for walking-no running
ASICS Women’s Gel-Quickwalk 3 can handle power walks on a treadmill for between 3- 5 miles a day. It is one of the most sought after shoes for day to day walking as it offers great cushioning and support. Unfortunately, it doesn’t come in many color choices.
6. Brooks Men’s Ghost 13
Brooks is another brand worth considering if you are looking for a really fancy treadmill walking shoe. One of their choices- Brooks Men’s Ghost 13-pops around in over 10 awe-inspiring prints.
Ghost 13 (unlike 12, its predecessor) puts more focus on comfort and support. It relies on DNA LOFT and BioMoGo to provide the softest, energy-packed cushioning for walking and running on a treadmill.
It doesn’t matter how your foot lands because this shoe is an impeccable stabilizer. The segmented crash pad properly aligns your foot while the 3D print ensures the shoe stretches as your feet move providing the softest, secure fit.
Brooks Men’s Ghost 13 is fully breathable, responsive, and streamlines your heel-to-toe transitions so you can focus on other things as you go about your runs and walks. Given all that awesomeness, you will understand why it is priced around $100 and more.
Features
- Segmented crash pad
- 3D Fit print
- BioMoGo and DNA Loft cushioning
- Traction-rich rubber outsole
- Synthetic top
Pros:
- Fosters improved transitions
- Provides energy back to the feet
- Supremely comfortable and supportive
- Available in both flashy and non-flashy colors
- 3D-designed to fit anyone
- Ultra-lightweight
Cons:
- Can cost more than $100
Brooks Men’s Ghost 13 is designed for champions-folks that are so focused on bettering their best. Ghost 13 is highly rated in terms of comfort, support, flexibility, and durability. Yes, this is no ordinary, knock off the sneaker.
7. ALTRA Women’s Escalante 2 Road Running Shoe
ALTRA Women’s Escalante 2 is a little unique because this treadmill running shoe features several podiatrist-inspired designs. Let’s start with Fit4her. This is a unique tech that conforms to the unique female foot anatomy and thus many ladies will fit in it snugly.
Secondly, the insole is not only compression-resistant but is designed to allow the forefoot and the heel to be at the same height from the ground as well. This way, you get the best arch support and low-impact performance throughout your run.
ALTRA Women’s Escalante 2 has a proprietary ALTRA EGO dual-density midsole with ultra-responsive mechanics and better energy return. The grid-like grooves occurring in the midsole improve flexibility without making the shoe unnecessarily heavy.
To add to that, its outsole technology maps out your feet’ bones and tendons thus helping them bend and move more naturally.
Features
- Fit4her technology that fits the anatomy of many women
- Midsole flex grooves
- Dual-density ALTRA EGO midsole
- Compression resistant insoles
- Breathable mesh upper
Pros:
- Ultra-flexible performance
- Affordable
- Breathable mesh upper
- Minimalistic and extremely lightweight
Cons:
- Some people find them stiff
- Zero drop design and therefore not ideal for those with pre-existing foot problems
ALTRA Women’s Escalante 2 is for those who are looking for treadmill walking shoes with podiatrist-inspired features. It sure as the day will deliver an exceptional performance as you crunch in the miles on the belt. The best part is, the shoe doesn’t cost anything near $100.
Things To Consider While Choosing Shoes for Treadmill Walking
Choosing treadmill walking shoes is not as complicated as rocket science. However, if you ignore a few important pointers, you could end up with the wrong shoe size or style that eventually gets tossed aside for lacking purpose.
In case you don’t want to waste your money, here are a few things to remember:
The shape of your feet
Is this your first time purchasing treadmill walking shoes? If so then it would be ideal to go into a store, get your feet measured and your gait examined. This way, the examiner will be able to discern any possible foot conditions you have and the shape of the shoe you need to go for.
Once you know the kind of running or walking shoe that works for you, start placing your orders online as the prices are likely to be way cheaper than in offline stalls.
Flexibility
Workout shoes including those for walking on a treadmill must be flexible. Shoes with inflexible parts can result in shin splints, muscle stiffness, and foot fatigue.
Cushioning
The rule of thumb here is that the best shoes for treadmill walking should have minimal but sufficient cushioning. This is because you don’t strike the ground with a lot of force as compared to cross-training exercises. But if you are into multiple training workouts, then you can check out our guide on the best shoes for cross-training.
Always ensure the heel is nicely padded because walkers tend to land on the heel most of the time. Nevertheless, you need to understand that comfort is a matter of personal preference and can depend on other things such as arch support, breathability, flexibility, etc. So be a little extra careful or clear on what exactly comfort means to you.
The last thing that you should not pay a lot of attention to is the budget. Why? Because you cannot put a price on something as valuable as an exercise shoe that keeps you injury-free. All the same, a decent pair of treadmill walking shoes costs between $50 and $200.
Weight
Always go for lightweight shoes that enable you to register many miles. Heavy shoes can get in the way of that by taking a toll on your feet. Understand that the amount and quality of padding can impact the weight of shoes.
Orthotic-friendly
Not to scare you but sometimes not even the best shoes or the most expensive kind can deliver the comfort and treadmill experience you are looking for. But if a shoe can reserve a room for bespoke orthotics, then you can get something that upgrades the arch support or cushioning to the level that you desire.
Premium features
Sometimes all you need to look for in the best shoes for the treadmill is the existence of premium tech. This technology includes things like-charged cushioning, Biomogo DNA, LOFT DNA, EVA cushioning, Gel padding, 3D Fit print, Cloudfoam, and U4ic cushioning.
Basically, if you see some technical jargon in a shoe’s description, that’s probably the name of a special technology that is meant to improve the wearing experience.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
a) Can you run barefoot on a treadmill?
Treadmills run on a rotating belt. This is a mechanical process and depending on the speed, the best can get really hot thereby burning your feet. Secondly, a lot of people stub their toes in front of the machine where the belt turns. This can lead to toe injuries that can be avoided by putting on treadmill shoes.
b) Can you wear trail shoes on the treadmill?
Trail running shoes possess next-level traction for keeping you steady on demanding outdoor trails. Their pronounced lugs can hamper your performance by increasing friction on the belt. This gives you more work than is necessary.
Additionally, most trail running shoes are bulkier and this can add too much unnecessary baggage to your walks and runs. So unless you can get a lighter model, then just stick to running and walking shoes.
c) Is it okay to use running shoes for walking?
Running shoes are designed for comfort and in a lightweight package. However, some are thickly padded and can be a little heavy. All the same, you can still use your running shoe on a treadmill comfortably.
Wrap up
The best shoes for treadmill walking can help you achieve your workout goals indoors on a treadmill. Unlike conventional running shoes, those designed for indoor walking boast lightweight padding, good support, and a fairly grippy outsole. But you already know all that, don’t you?
This guide may not be very useful for those with pre-existing major foot conditions like plantar fasciitis. Such problems can make it really challenging to use ordinary narrow footed workout shoes. This is why we said earlier that comfort is more an issue of preference.
So if you have foot problems, try workout shoes with more room for breathability and toe movement. This way, your pain can abate and allow you to enjoy your treadmill sessions. Of course, do remember to look for insoles (both custom and ready-made) to adjust comfort and arch support by a few notches.
As we wrap this up, there is only one solid piece of advice we can leave you with. If you can stick to one shoe, or wish to have a workout shoe that juggles between many exercises, then goes for cross-training shoes. They are of a hybrid construction and can help you do as many workout exercises as your body can handle.