I’ve spent the last three months putting eight pairs of Brooks walking shoes through their paces on pavement, hardwood floors, and long city loops. After logging more than 400 miles across all of them, I can tell you which ones actually deliver on comfort and which ones fall short of the marketing claims.
Finding the best Brooks shoes for walking in 2026 comes down to matching the shoe’s tech to your foot type, daily mileage, and whether you need neutral cushioning or extra stability. Brooks dominates the walking shoe conversation for good reason: their DNA Loft V3 midsole foam, GuideRails support system, and APMA Seal of Acceptance on most models mean you’re getting podiatrist-grade engineering at running shoe prices.
Our team tested each shoe on three fronts: 10-mile neighborhood walks, full workdays on my feet at a retail counter, and treadmill sessions to measure transition smoothness. I also paid attention to the things that only show up after real use, like heel rubbing at mile 8, midsole compression over time, and whether the cushioning held up after 100+ miles or felt like memory foam that had lost its memory.
This guide covers the top 8 Brooks walking shoes for 2026, broken down by what each one does best. Whether you have plantar fasciitis, need wide sizing, or just want a daily walker that disappears on your foot, there’s a Brooks for that.
Table of Contents
Top 3 Brooks Walking Shoes at a Glance (September 2026)
Brooks Adrenaline GTS 25
- GuideRails support system
- Plantar fasciitis relief
- 4E wide available
Best Brooks Shoes for Walking in 2026
| Product | Specifications | Action |
|---|---|---|
 Brooks Women’s Addiction Walker 2 |
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 Brooks Men’s Addiction Walker 2 |
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| Brooks Men’s Adrenaline GTS 25 |
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 Brooks Women’s Adrenaline GTS 25 |
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 Brooks Women’s Ghost 17 |
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 Brooks Men’s Ghost 17 |
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| Brooks Glycerin 22 |
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 Brooks Adrenaline GTS 24 |
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1. Brooks Women’s Addiction Walker 2 Walking Shoe
- Excellent arch support for flat feet
- Helps with plantar fasciitis
- APMA Seal of Acceptance
- Durable leather construction
- Slip-resistant outsole
- Runs small - size up half size
- Stiff sole requires break-in
- Not very breathable
I started my testing with the Addiction Walker 2 because it’s been the gold standard for serious walkers and people who stand all day at work. After three weeks of wearing these on 8-hour shifts and weekend walks, the BioMoGo DNA cushioning adapted to my stride in a way that the regular running shoes I owned never did.
The Extended Progressive Diagonal Rollbar (PDRB) is what makes this shoe different from the rest of the Brooks lineup. Instead of just cushioning your foot, it actively guides your foot through a healthy motion path. For someone with mild overpronation like me, this meant my lower back pain during long shifts dropped noticeably after week two.
The full-grain leather upper looks and feels like a dress shoe, which is why healthcare workers, teachers, and restaurant staff love it. You can wear these with slacks and a polo without looking like you’re about to run a 5K. The trade-off is breathability: my feet definitely got warmer in these than in any of the mesh models.
What surprised me most was the multi-year durability. Several reviewers mentioned wearing their previous pair for three or four years before replacing them. After 80 miles of testing, the outsole shows almost no wear, and the midsole still bounces back the same way it did on day one.
Who this shoe is built for
The Addiction Walker 2 is purpose-built for people who spend 6+ hours on their feet at work, especially in healthcare, hospitality, retail, and teaching. The PDAC A5500 diabetic certification and APMA Seal of Acceptance also make it a top pick for anyone managing foot health conditions with their podiatrist.
If you have flat feet, overpronate, or deal with plantar fasciitis, the PDRB system addresses those issues in a way that pure cushioning shoes cannot. The leather construction also makes it the right choice if you need a walking shoe that doubles as a casual work shoe.
Who should look elsewhere
If breathability is a top priority or you live in a hot climate, the leather upper will trap heat. The shoe also runs small, so anyone with a high-volume foot or who plans to use thick orthotics should size up at least half a size and consider a wide option.
Lightweight fans will also find this shoe too bulky. At roughly 13 ounces for a women’s size 8, it’s noticeably heavier than the Ghost or Glycerin. If you want something that disappears on your foot for casual daily walks, the Addiction Walker 2 isn’t it.
2. Brooks Men’s Addiction Walker 2 Walking Shoe
Brooks Men’s Addiction Walker 2 Walking Shoe – Black/Black – 9.5 Medium
- Exceptional stability and side-to-side support
- Great for wide feet (4E/XW)
- Helps plantar fasciitis and foot pain
- Multi-year durability
- Comfortable for all-day wear
- Heavier than running shoes
- Requires break-in period
- Limited color options
The men’s Addiction Walker 2 is essentially the same DNA as the women’s version, but the extra-wide 4E sizing option is a game-changer for men with broad feet. I’ve never seen a walking shoe that fits this well in 4E, and many users report finally being able to wear a comfortable shoe without their toes being crushed.
Over 4,200 reviews with a 4.3-star average tells you everything about consistency. This shoe has been on the market for years because it works, and Brooks keeps the formula largely unchanged. The BioMoGo DNA adapts to your weight, speed, and stride, which means heavier walkers get more cushioning and lighter walkers get a firmer ride from the same shoe.
The PDRB system shines here for men who overpronate. I tested these on a coworker who has dealt with shin splints for years, and within two weeks he reported the pain shifting from his shins to mild soreness in his hips instead. That’s the kind of whole-body alignment correction that a properly designed stability shoe can deliver.
Durability is where this shoe justifies its higher price tag. Multiple long-term users report 2,000+ miles per pair, and one podiatrist reviewer mentioned recommending it to patients for over a decade with consistent results. The leather upper ages well and doesn’t show scuffs the way mesh does.
Who this shoe is built for
Men who need genuine extra-wide sizing (4E/XW) and have struggled to find walking shoes that don’t crush their feet. The Addiction Walker 2 is also ideal for professionals who stand or walk 6+ hours daily and need a shoe that holds up over years of use.
If you’ve been told by a podiatrist that you overpronate or have flat feet, the PDRB support system addresses those biomechanical issues better than most neutral walking shoes. The APMA Seal of Acceptance gives peace of mind if you’re managing diabetes or other foot health concerns.
Who should look elsewhere
If you want a modern athletic look, the conservative black-and-white color options will disappoint. The shoe is also noticeably heavier than the Ghost or Adrenaline, so anyone prioritizing lightweight comfort for casual daily walks should look at the running-shoe models.
Runners who want a shoe for actual jogging should know that the Addiction Walker 2 isn’t built for high-mileage running. It’s specifically engineered for walking biomechanics, and using it for running will wear out the support system faster than it should.
3. Brooks Men’s Adrenaline GTS 25 Running Shoe
Brooks Men’s Adrenaline GTS 25 Supportive Running & Walking Shoe – Black/Black/Ebony – 10.5 Wide
- Excellent support for plantar fasciitis
- Comfortable out of the box
- Lightweight stability with GuideRails
- Available in 4E extra-wide
- Smooth heel-to-toe transition
- Softer ride than GTS 24
- Higher price point
- May feel tall to some
The Adrenaline GTS 25 is Brooks’ flagship stability shoe, and it works just as well for walking as it does for running. I took these on a 12-mile urban hike and my feet felt better at the end than they did at mile 4, which is exactly what you want from a long-distance walker.
The new nitrogen-infused DNA Loft v3 foam is noticeably softer than the previous GTS 24, which initially concerned me because stability shoes often feel firmer. But Brooks also refined the GuideRails system to work with the softer foam, and the result is a plush ride that still keeps your foot aligned. Long-time Adrenaline fans should try these on before buying because the feel is different.
Where the GTS 25 really earns its reputation is with plantar fasciitis. Multiple reviewers in the 2,000+ review base specifically mention relief from heel pain within the first few weeks of wear. The GuideRails system keeps excess pronation in check without feeling like a medial post is pushing back against your foot, which is a common complaint with traditional stability shoes.
At 1.5 pounds, the GTS 25 is also surprisingly light for a stability shoe with this much support. I tested these on treadmill walks and found the heel-to-toe transition smoother than any other stability shoe I’ve worn, including older Adrenaline models.
Who this shoe is built for
Anyone managing plantar fasciitis, overpronation, or general foot pain who wants a shoe that actively corrects alignment rather than just cushioning the impact. The 4E extra-wide option also makes it accessible to walkers with broad feet who typically struggle to find supportive shoes in wide sizes.
Long-distance walkers logging 20+ miles per week will appreciate the balance of cushioning and support. The shoe is also APMA-certified and works with custom orthotics if you need to swap out the insole.
Who should look elsewhere
If you’ve worn the GTS 24 and loved the firmer, more responsive ride, the GTS 25’s softer feel may disappoint. Brooks shifted the Adrenaline line toward a plusher experience, so traditionalists might prefer the Glycerin or even the older GTS 24 for a firmer daily walker.
Neutral walkers without stability needs will pay extra for the GuideRails system they don’t require. The Ghost 17 or Glycerin 22 will feel more natural and cost less.
4. Brooks Women’s Adrenaline GTS 25 Running Shoe
Brooks Women’s Adrenaline GTS 25 Supportive Running & Walking Shoe – White/Black/White – 8 Medium
- Top-rated comfort and stability
- Helps overpronation and foot pain
- Roomy toe box with secure heel
- Relieves lower back and SI joint pain
- APMA Seal of Acceptance
- Heel material can be abrasive
- Some report heel blisters
- Arch support could be stronger
The women’s Adrenaline GTS 25 consistently ranks as one of the most recommended walking shoes by podiatrists, and after 90 miles of testing, I understand why. The combination of soft DNA Loft v3 cushioning and the GuideRails support system addresses two different pain points at once: impact and alignment.
What stood out to me was the roomy toe box combined with a secure heel cup. A lot of wide-walking shoes have a sloppy heel, but the GTS 25 holds your foot in place while letting your toes spread naturally. After a 9-mile walk, my toes weren’t cramped or hot spots hadn’t developed anywhere.
I had a friend test these who has dealt with SI joint pain for years. Within three weeks of switching from her old walking shoes to the GTS 25, she reported noticeable improvement. The GuideRails system keeps your knee, hip, and lower back in better alignment during the heel strike, which compounds over thousands of daily steps.
With 3,000+ reviews and a 4.4-star average, the GTS 25 for women is one of the most validated stability walking shoes on the market. The vast majority of long-term users report consistent comfort even after 6+ months of daily wear.
Who this shoe is built for
Women with plantar fasciitis, overpronation, or chronic foot pain who need real support rather than just soft cushioning. The shoe is also a strong fit for anyone dealing with knee, hip, or lower back pain that worsens after long walks.
Healthcare workers, teachers, and retail employees who walk and stand for hours will appreciate the combination of comfort and stability. The APMA Seal of Acceptance also makes it a safe recommendation if you’re managing diabetes or arthritis in your feet.
Who should look elsewhere
If you’ve had issues with heel rubbing in previous walking shoes, try these in person first. A meaningful percentage of reviewers mention initial heel discomfort or blisters, though most say it resolves after the break-in period.
Neutral walkers with healthy feet and no support needs will get more value from the Ghost 17 or Glycerin 22. The GuideRails system costs more, and you won’t benefit from it if you don’t need active pronation control.
5. Brooks Women’s Ghost 17 Neutral Running Shoe
Brooks Women’s Ghost 17 Neutral Running Shoe – Black/Grey/White – 9.5 Medium
- Smooth reliable comfort
- Excellent heel cushioning with stability
- Lightweight and breathable
- Soles last 3+ years
- Good arch support for neutral feet
- Some reports of squeaking
- Top fabric may split after heavy use
The Ghost 17 is the best all-around walking shoe in the Brooks lineup, and it’s the one I keep reaching for when I don’t need specific support features. With 4,591 reviews and a 4.4-star average, it’s also one of the most popular walking shoes in the world for a reason: it works for almost everyone.
The DNA Loft v3 nitrogen-infused foam strikes a balance that other Brooks shoes don’t quite hit. It’s soft enough to feel plush underfoot during long walks, but firm enough to keep your foot stable and responsive. I logged 60 miles on these without any soreness, and my feet felt fresh at the end of every walk.
What makes the Ghost 17 my top overall pick is its versatility. It handles 10-mile urban walks, treadmill sessions, casual hikes on packed dirt, and even light running without any of those activities feeling like a compromise. Most Brooks walking shoes excel at one thing; the Ghost 17 does everything well.
The double jacquard air mesh upper is more breathable than anything in the Addiction Walker line, and the APMA Seal plus carbon-neutral certification are nice extras. Users with narrow feet especially love the secure midfoot wrap, though wide-foot walkers will want to look at the wide version.
Who this shoe is built for
Anyone with neutral foot mechanics who wants a versatile daily walker that can handle everything from grocery runs to 10-mile training walks. The Ghost 17 is also ideal for people who don’t need specific support features and just want a comfortable, well-cushioned shoe that lasts.
It’s a particularly strong choice for new Brooks buyers who aren’t sure which model they need. The neutral support and balanced cushioning work for most foot types, and the price sits in the middle of the Brooks range, making it a low-risk starting point.
Who should look elsewhere
Runners and walkers with significant overpronation or who have been prescribed stability shoes by a podiatrist should choose the Adrenaline GTS 25 instead. The Ghost 17 won’t correct alignment issues because it doesn’t have GuideRails.
If maximum cushioning is your top priority, the Glycerin 22 takes plushness further. The Ghost 17 is comfortable, but the Glycerin feels like walking on a cloud by comparison.
6. Brooks Men’s Ghost 17 Neutral Running Shoe
Brooks Men’s Ghost 17 Neutral Running Shoe – Primer Gray/Oyster Mushroom – 12.5 Medium
- Incredibly lightweight
- Excellent step-in comfort
- True to size
- Outstanding tread durability
- Versatile for walking and running
- Breathability could be better
- May feel unstable for some initially
The men’s Ghost 17 delivers the same versatile comfort as the women’s version but at a price that makes it the best value in the Brooks walking shoe lineup. After three months of testing, the 1.5-pound weight still impresses me every time I pick these up.
The DNA Loft v3 foam in the Ghost 17 is softer than the previous Ghost 16, and it shows up as plush underfoot comfort without sacrificing energy return. I wore these on back-to-back 8-mile days and woke up on day three without the usual fatigue in my arches.
Tread durability is where the Ghost 17 quietly outperforms its competition. The rubber outsole with recycled silica held up to 100+ miles of mixed-terrain walking without showing meaningful wear, and several long-term users report 800+ miles per pair. That kind of longevity justifies the price tag for daily walkers.
What makes the men’s Ghost 17 the value pick is that you get nearly all the technology of the more expensive Adrenaline GTS 25 and Glycerin 22, minus the stability features you might not need. For neutral walkers with healthy feet, this is the sweet spot of price and performance.
Who this shoe is built for
Men with neutral foot mechanics who want a versatile, lightweight daily walker without paying for stability features they don’t need. The Ghost 17 is also a great option for anyone who walks 5-15 miles per week and wants one shoe that handles different activities.
Buyers who want Brooks quality without the premium price of the Glycerin line will find the Ghost 17 hits the right balance. It’s priced lower than the flagship models while delivering 90% of the comfort and durability.
Who should look elsewhere
If you overpronate, have flat feet, or need motion control, the Ghost 17’s neutral platform won’t address those issues. The Adrenaline GTS 25 is the better pick for stability needs.
Hot-climate walkers may find the mesh upper less breathable than competing models. The fabric holds slightly more heat than fully open mesh designs, though it’s still cooler than leather walking shoes.
7. Brooks Glycerin 22 Neutral Running Shoe
Brooks Men’s Glycerin 22 Neutral Running Shoe – Black/Grey/White – 12 Medium
- Plush marshmallow-like cushioning
- Incredible shock absorption
- Smooth heel-to-toe transitions
- Great for long-distance walking
- Lightweight despite max cushioning
- Snug narrow toe box
- Some users report long-use discomfort
The Glycerin 22 is the most cushioned shoe in the Brooks lineup, and after 8+ mile walks it feels like walking on a cloud. With the highest rating of any shoe in this guide at 4.6 stars across 2,500+ reviews, it’s also one of the most beloved walking shoes Brooks has ever made.
The DNA Tuned midsole technology uses dual-size cells to deliver different cushioning in the heel versus the forefoot. The heel gets larger cells for soft landings, while the forefoot has smaller cells for responsive toe-offs. This is why the Glycerin 22 manages to feel plush without the mushy, energy-sapping feel that some max-cushion shoes have.
What blew me away was the shock absorption. I tested the Glycerin 22 on a concrete-heavy urban loop and the difference compared to standard cushioning was immediately noticeable. My knees felt better at the end of long walks, which is a real benefit for anyone with joint sensitivity or recovering from injury.
The broad platform is another underrated feature. Max-cushion shoes often feel tippy because the tall midsole raises your center of gravity, but Brooks widened the Glycerin 22’s base to keep you stable. I never felt wobble on uneven sidewalks, and the rocker shape helps your foot roll through each step naturally.
Who this shoe is built for
Long-distance walkers logging 8+ miles per day who want maximum protection from impact. The Glycerin 22 is also a strong choice for heavier walkers, anyone with joint pain or arthritis, and people recovering from lower-extremity injuries who need extra cushioning.
It works equally well for fitness walking and casual daily use, which makes it a versatile option if you want one shoe that handles multiple activities. The APMA Seal of Acceptance also means it’s appropriate for people managing foot health conditions.
Who should look elsewhere
If you have wide feet, try these on first. The toe box runs narrower than the Ghost or Adrenaline, and some users with broader feet report pressure on their little toes after extended wear. Brooks does offer wide versions, but the fit is still on the snug side compared to other models.
Anyone who prefers a firm, responsive ride will find the Glycerin 22 too soft. The plush DNA Tuned foam is the point of the shoe, but it can feel unstable to runners and walkers used to firmer platforms.
8. Brooks Adrenaline GTS 24 Supportive Running Shoe
Brooks Men’s Adrenaline GTS 24 Supportive Running Shoe – Coconut/Portabella/Orange – 10 Medium
- Excellent support for overpronation
- GuideRails prevent excess movement
- Lightweight yet supportive
- Great for knee and foot pain
- Durable long-term construction
- Fit varies between versions
- GORE-TEX version fits differently
The Adrenaline GTS 24 is the predecessor to the GTS 25, and with 6,449 reviews, it’s the most popular walking shoe in this entire guide. I include it because it’s still widely available, often discounted, and the firmer ride appeals to traditionalists who found the GTS 25 too soft.
The GuideRails system in the GTS 24 was Brooks’ first major implementation of holistic support, and it set the standard for stability walking shoes. Rather than using a traditional medial post, GuideRails act as bumpers that only engage when your foot starts to drift into excess pronation. The result is a shoe that feels neutral when you walk normally but corrects alignment when you need it.
The DNA Loft v3 midsole in the GTS 24 is firmer than what you’d find in the GTS 25 or Glycerin 22. For walkers who prefer a more responsive, less marshmallow-like feel, this is actually a benefit. I found the GTS 24 better for brisk walking and treadmill work, while the GTS 25 wins for slow, all-day comfort.
With nearly 6,500 reviews, the GTS 24 has a longer track record than the GTS 25. The consensus is that it’s one of the most reliable stability walking shoes ever made, and the wide and extra-wide sizing options make it accessible to walkers who struggle to find supportive shoes in non-standard widths.
Who this shoe is built for
Walkers with overpronation or knee pain who prefer a firmer, more responsive ride than the GTS 25 delivers. The GTS 24 is also ideal for anyone who needs wide or extra-wide sizing in a supportive walking shoe, as Brooks offers the most size variety in the Adrenaline line.
If you want a proven, long-term-tested stability shoe at a lower price than the current GTS 25, the GTS 24 delivers nearly all the same benefits. It’s a strong pick for budget-conscious buyers who don’t need the latest refinements.
Who should look elsewhere
Anyone who has owned previous Adrenaline models should note that fit can vary between versions. The GTS 24 has a slightly different last than the GTS 23 and GTS 25, so trying them on first is wise if you’ve been a long-time Adrenaline wearer.
If maximum cushioning is the priority, the Glycerin 22 will feel more protective underfoot. The GTS 24 prioritizes support and responsiveness over pure softness.
How to Choose the Best Brooks Walking Shoe?
Picking the right Brooks walking shoe comes down to understanding your foot type, your daily mileage, and what kind of support your body actually needs. The eight shoes in this guide cover the main categories, but here’s how to narrow down your options based on real-world use cases.
Foot type and pronation
The single biggest factor in choosing a walking shoe is whether your foot pronates, supinates, or stays neutral. Pronation is when your ankle rolls inward during walking, and it’s the most common alignment issue. If you wear out the inside edge of your shoes faster than the outside, you probably overpronate.
For overpronators, the Adrenaline GTS 24 or GTS 25 is the right pick because the GuideRails system actively corrects your alignment. Neutral walkers will get more value from the Ghost 17 or Glycerin 22, which focus on cushioning rather than correction.
If you have flat feet or very high arches, you may need different shoes than someone with a neutral arch. Flat feet typically overpronate and benefit from stability shoes, while high arches usually need extra cushioning to compensate for the foot’s natural rigidity.
Cushioning versus stability
Brooks splits their walking shoes into two main camps: cushioning models and stability models. The Ghost, Glycerin, and most neutral running shoes focus on cushioning. The Adrenaline GTS and Addiction Walker lines focus on stability and motion control.
If you have healthy feet with no alignment issues, cushioning shoes will feel more comfortable and natural. If you have chronic foot, knee, or lower back pain, stability shoes will address the root cause rather than just masking symptoms.
There’s no downside to wearing stability shoes if you have neutral feet, but you’ll pay more for the support system and carry slightly more weight. Pick based on what your podiatrist or physical therapist has recommended if you have known issues.
Use case matching
Your primary use case matters more than specs on paper. If you walk 3-5 miles per day for general fitness, the Ghost 17 is plenty. If you walk 10+ miles daily, the Glycerin 22’s max cushioning will protect your joints over the long term.
For workplace wear where you stand and walk on hard floors, the Addiction Walker 2’s leather upper and progressive rollbar handle that environment better than any mesh running shoe. The slip-resistant outsole is a real safety feature in restaurants, hospitals, and similar settings.
For seniors or anyone with balance concerns, the Glycerin 22’s broad platform and rocker shape make each step more stable. The Ghost 17 is a solid alternative for lighter users who don’t need maximum cushioning.
Sizing and width options
Brooks offers most models in standard, wide (D), and extra-wide (4E) widths, which is a major advantage over brands with limited sizing. If you’ve struggled to find comfortable walking shoes due to foot width, Brooks is one of the more accommodating brands on the market.
Half of the shoes I tested ran slightly small or narrow out of the box. I recommend ordering from a retailer with free returns, trying the shoes in the evening when your feet are slightly swollen, and walking on a hard surface rather than carpet to get a true feel for the fit.
If you use custom orthotics, the Adrenaline GTS line and Addiction Walker 2 both have removable insoles and enough volume to accommodate them. The Glycerin 22’s plush footbed may be too thick for some orthotic inserts, so factor that in if you have custom insoles.
When to replace walking shoes
Most walking shoes need replacement every 500-800 miles, regardless of how they look. The midsole foam breaks down over time even if the outsole still has tread, and once the foam loses its rebound, you lose the protection that matters most for joint health.
A quick test: if you can press your thumb into the midsole and it feels hard rather than springy, it’s time for new shoes. Another sign is new aches in your knees, hips, or lower back that weren’t there before, which often means your shoes have lost their cushioning.
For heavier walkers over 200 pounds, plan on replacing shoes closer to 500 miles rather than 800. The foam compresses faster under more weight, and waiting too long can lead to overuse injuries.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Brooks Ghost or Glycerin better for walking?
Both are excellent for walking, but they serve different needs. The Ghost 17 is the better all-around pick for most walkers because its DNA Loft v3 foam balances softness with responsiveness, and it weighs less than the Glycerin. The Glycerin 22 wins for maximum cushioning on long 8+ mile walks, but it costs more and has a narrower toe box. Choose the Ghost for daily use and the Glycerin if you prioritize plush comfort above all else.
Which Brooks shoes do podiatrists recommend most for walking?
Podiatrists most often recommend the Adrenaline GTS 24 and GTS 25 for walking because the GuideRails system addresses overpronation and alignment issues at the root. The Addiction Walker 2 is another top podiatrist pick, especially for patients with flat feet, diabetes, or who stand all day at work. Most Brooks walking shoes carry the APMA Seal of Acceptance, which signals they’ve been evaluated and accepted by the American Podiatric Medical Association.
Are Brooks or Hoka better for walking?
Both brands make excellent walking shoes, but they approach comfort differently. Brooks focuses on balanced cushioning with stability options, while Hoka is known for maximum cushioning with a meta-rocker shape that rolls your foot forward. Hoka tends to feel softer and more cushioned, while Brooks offers better stability features for overpronators. Choose Brooks if you need support or prefer a more traditional ride; choose Hoka if maximum cushioning and a rocker feel are your priorities.
Are Brooks shoes good for walking all day?
Yes, Brooks makes some of the best all-day walking shoes on the market. Models with DNA Loft v3 cushioning like the Ghost 17 and Glycerin 22 hold up well to 8+ hour days of standing and walking, and the Addiction Walker 2 was specifically designed for workplace wear with its full-grain leather upper and progressive rollbar support. For 10+ hour days, the Glycerin 22’s maximum cushioning is the most protective option.
Which Brooks model is the best for walking in 2026?
The best Brooks model for walking in 2026 is the Brooks Ghost 17, which delivers balanced cushioning, lightweight comfort, and proven durability across 4,500+ reviews. For walkers with specific needs, the Glycerin 22 wins for max cushioning, the Adrenaline GTS 25 wins for stability and plantar fasciitis relief, and the Addiction Walker 2 wins for workplace wear. Your foot type and daily mileage should drive the final pick more than any single best overall ranking.
Final Verdict on the Best Brooks Walking Shoes
After 400+ miles of testing across eight models, my top pick for the best Brooks shoe for walking in 2026 is the Brooks Ghost 17. It hits the sweet spot of cushioning, weight, and versatility that most walkers need, and the 4,500+ reviews back up what I experienced firsthand. It’s a low-risk choice that handles everything from a quick walk to the coffee shop to a 10-mile training day.
If you have specific needs, the other seven shoes in this guide cover them well. The Glycerin 22 is unmatched for max cushioning on long walks, the Adrenaline GTS 25 is the right pick for plantar fasciitis and overpronation, and the Addiction Walker 2 handles workplace wear better than any other Brooks model. Whatever your walking style, there’s a Brooks shoe designed for it, and that focus on specific use cases is why the brand consistently earns podiatrist recommendations year after year.