{"id":5565,"date":"2026-07-12T13:06:11","date_gmt":"2026-07-12T13:06:11","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/relocationtimess.com\/?p=5565"},"modified":"2026-07-12T13:06:11","modified_gmt":"2026-07-12T13:06:11","slug":"i-have-arthritis-and-these-are-the-nike-walking-shoes-i-wear-to-comfortably-hit-10000-steps-a-day","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/relocationtimess.com\/?p=5565","title":{"rendered":"I have arthritis, and these are the Nike walking shoes I wear to comfortably hit 10,000 steps a day"},"content":{"rendered":"
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Our featured picks<\/h2>\n<\/div>\n
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\n\nNike Women’s Structure Plus Running Shoes\n<\/span>\n<\/h3>\n<\/div>\n
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\n\nNike Women’s Pegasus 42 Running Shoes\n<\/span>\n<\/h3>\n<\/div>\n
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\n\nNike Women’s Motiva 2 Walking Shoes\n<\/span>\n<\/h3>\n<\/div>\n
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\n If walking is part of your everyday exercise routine, you need the proper footwear to support you throughout all those steps. While I have a large collection of shoes from different brands, Nike makes some of my favorite walking shoes. Many of my favorite models are made with innovative impact-absorbing features, like Air Zoom units and Max Air cushioning, that minimize any joint-jolting sensations that typically come from hitting the pavement. This is especially crucial for me because I walk and run up to 50 miles a week, have arthritis and regularly experience hip and knee pain.\n <\/p>

Read more It was supposed to be Trump\u2019s big legislative achievement. It could be a weapon for Democrats to win in the midterms<\/a><\/p>\n

\n Unless you run more than a few times a week, you likely don\u2019t need walking and running shoes, according to Nike. The reasoning is tied to the weight distribution and the time your feet spend on the ground while walking versus running. Studies show that when you run, your body endures a force 1.5 to 3 times your body weight. Because of this impact, many running shoes have more padding in the midsoles to protect joints than shoes designed solely for walking. That\u2019s why the brand states on its website that its \u201crunning shoes are great for walking, but not all walking shoes offer all the features a runner might be looking for.\u201d\n <\/p>\n

\n Out of all the brand\u2019s models, I narrowed down five pairs that, based on expert insights and my experience testing them, stand out. These supportive walking shoes boast features like flexible uppers, stability-enhancing toe boxes and plush cushioning that supports joints. All these features combined create durable sneakers that will help you reach your cardio goals comfortably.\n <\/p>\n

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\"Best<\/figure>\n<\/figure>\n\n<\/div>\n
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James Harrison\/CNN Underscored<\/figcaption>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n

\nRelated article<\/span>\nThe best Nike running shoes, according to a trainer and podiatrist<\/span>\n<\/p>\n<\/div>\n

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Nike Structure Plus<\/h2>\n<\/div>\n
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Best Tested<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n
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\n\nNike Women’s Structure Plus Running Shoes\n<\/span>\n<\/h3>\n<\/div>\n
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My feet roll inward when I walk, so I rely on these Structure Plus stability shoes to secure my feet and prevent overpronation. The shoes\u2019 high, sturdy heel cups can also help prevent overpronation-related injuries such as tendonitis, shin splints and plantar fasciitis. As a result, my joints are pain-free during my miles-long sessions and afterwards, which is why I think they\u2019re a solid investment for people who walk for hours at a time. What\u2019s more, the dual-rubber outsoles add security thanks to their stellar traction that can keep you upright on slick, wet surfaces. <\/p><\/div>\n

\nRead our review<\/p>\n

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\n\n$170<\/s>\n From $119 at Nike\n <\/span>\n<\/div>\n
\n\n $170 at REI\n <\/span>\n<\/div>\n
\n\n $170 at Dick’s Sporting Goods\n <\/span>\n<\/div>\n
\n\n $170 at Fleet Feet\n <\/span>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n
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\n\nNike Men’s Structure Plus Running Shoes\n<\/span>\n<\/h3>\n<\/div>\n
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I especially like the cushioning; many stability shoes can feel stiff or heavy, but these feel plush and comforting. In fact, they\u2019re Nike’s most cushioned stability shoes on the market. The padding is made from two proprietary foams \u2014 ZoomX and ReactX \u2014 that yield plush yet responsive midsoles that absorb impact and add bounce to each step. My feet feel nearly weightless and always protected when wearing these.<\/p><\/div>\n

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\n\n$170<\/s>\n From $120 at Nike\n <\/span>\n<\/div>\n
\n\n $170 at REI\n <\/span>\n<\/div>\n
\n\n From $170 at Dick’s Sporting Goods\n <\/span>\n<\/div>\n
\n\n $170 at Nordstrom\n <\/span>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n
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Nike Pegasus 42<\/h2>\n<\/div>\n
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\n\nNike Women’s Pegasus 42 Running Shoes\n<\/span>\n<\/h3>\n<\/div>\n
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If you\u2019re looking for a pair of walking shoes that are lightweight, durable and comfortable, check out the Pegasus 42. Weighing just over 8.5 ounces for women\u2019s sizes and around 10 ounces for men\u2019s sizes (many other walking options I\u2019ve tested are closer to 10 and 11 ounces, respectively), these shoes feel like a second skin. The foot-hugging design features flexible uppers and breathable mesh material that maximizes airflow. The result? Comfort at every step \u2014 no matter the weather.<\/p><\/div>\n

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\n\n$145<\/s>\n From $117 at Nike\n <\/span>\n<\/div>\n
\n\n $145 at REI\n <\/span>\n<\/div>\n
\n\n $145 at Dick’s Sporting Goods\n <\/span>\n<\/div>\n
\n\n $145 at Nordstrom\n <\/span>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n
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\n\nNike Men’s Pegasus 42 Running Shoes\n<\/span>\n<\/h3>\n<\/div>\n
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I like how these daily trainers are versatile. They\u2019re one of the few shoes I rely on for both jogging and walking because they can outlast the high impact of running while providing stellar stability I crave while walking. Thanks to Nike\u2019s Air Zoom units built into the midsoles, I\u2019ve worn these for walks, runs and gym workouts without ever feeling discomfort. These airbag-like inclusions compress when your feet hit the ground and spring back as you lift your feet, creating a propulsive sensation that adds energy to each step. If you find yourself dragging on your walks or want some extra pep in your step, these are a stellar option.<\/p><\/div>\n

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\n\n$145<\/s>\n From $117 at Nike\n <\/span>\n<\/div>\n
\n\n$145<\/s>\n From $131 at Zappos\n <\/span>\n<\/div>\n
\n\n $145 at REI\n <\/span>\n<\/div>\n
\n\n $145 at Dick’s Sporting Goods\n <\/span>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n
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\"Hoka<\/figure>\n<\/figure>\n\n<\/div>\n
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Summer Cartwright\/CNN Underscored<\/figcaption>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n

\nRelated article<\/span>\n9 best shoes for ankle support, according to experts<\/span>\n<\/p>\n<\/div>\n

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Nike Movita 2<\/h2>\n<\/div>\n
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Expert Recommended<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n
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\n\nNike Women’s Motiva 2 Walking Shoes\n<\/span>\n<\/h3>\n<\/div>\n
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While I haven\u2019t tested these shoes, podiatrist and board-certified foot and ankle surgeon Dr. Elizabeth Bass Daughtry said they\u2019re a stand-out option among Nike\u2019s sneaker selection. \u201cThe ride is smooth and easy on the legs with excellent plush cushioning and a unique midsole design,\u201d she said.<\/p>

The Motiva 2 walking shoes have Comfortgrove foam ridges throughout the soles that compress with each step to protect your feet from potentially painful ground impact. Daughtry is also a fan of the shoes\u2019 rocker bottoms, because they act like a lever and help propel feet forward. These types of outsoles are common in orthopedic shoes because they encourage smooth heel-to-toe transitions and minimize the work your joints would otherwise endure, as podiatric physician Dr. Amy Ross previously told CNN Underscored.<\/p>

While these are labeled as women’s shoes, men can still shop them in sizes 3.5 to 10.5.<\/p><\/div>\n

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\n\n$115<\/s>\n From $90 at Nike\n <\/span>\n<\/div>\n
\n\n $115 at Dick’s Sporting Goods\n <\/span>\n<\/div>\n
\n\n $115 at Foot Locker\n <\/span>\n<\/div>\n
\n\n $115 at Nordstrom\n <\/span>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n
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Nike Vomero Plus<\/h2>\n<\/div>\n
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\n\nNike Women’s Vomero Plus Running Shoes\n<\/span>\n<\/h3>\n<\/div>\n
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Wide, comfortable toe boxes set these Nike walking shoes apart from other models. In fact, the first thing I noticed when I stepped into them was how comfortable my toes felt with all the space. While the roomier fit is great for people with wide feet, it can also prevent injuries and deformities \u2014 studies indicate that too-narrow toe boxes can cause hallux valgus (also known as bunions) and nerve pain. I also like how this extra room prevents any blisters from forming on my feet, since my toes don\u2019t rub against the uppers or side walls as much as they do in other shoes.<\/p><\/div>\n

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\n\n$180<\/s>\n From $130 at Foot Locker\n <\/span>\n<\/div>\n
\n\n$80<\/s>\n From $145 at Nike\n <\/span>\n<\/div>\n
\n\n $180 at REI\n <\/span>\n<\/div>\n
\n\n From $180 at Nordstrom\n <\/span>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n
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\n\nNike Men’s Vomero Plus Running Shoes\n<\/span>\n<\/h3>\n<\/div>\n
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Any fan of max-cushioned shoes will especially appreciate the Vomero Plus model. These shoes have 45 millimeters of foam padding that softens the feeling of hard concrete against my feet. Walking in these feels less taxing on my arthritic joints, and I\u2019m able to continue moving for longer. If you do most of your walking on walking pads, treadmills or hard outdoor surfaces, these shoes are worth adding to your rotation. <\/p><\/div>\n

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\n\n$180<\/s>\n From $130 at Footlocker\n <\/span>\n<\/div>\n
\n\n$180<\/s>\n From $145 at Nike\n <\/span>\n<\/div>\n
\n\n $180 at Nordstrom\n <\/span>\n<\/div>\n
\n\n From $180 at Dick’s Sporting Goods\n <\/span>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n
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Nike Vomero 18<\/h2>\n<\/div>\n
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\n\nNike Women’s Vomero 18 Running Shoes\n<\/span>\n<\/h3>\n<\/div>\n
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The sister style to the Vomero Plus, the Vomero 18 looks nearly identical but features less marshmallow-like cushioning. This is because the former\u2019s midsoles are made only with plush ZoomX foam, while the latter combines ZoomX with the brand\u2019s springboard-like ReactX material. This allows for more groundfeel and better balance, so I grab these when my joints are feeling strong and don\u2019t need as much reinforcement, and when I know my route might get a little uneven due to bricks or some trails.<\/p><\/div>\n

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\n\n$155<\/s>\n From $112 at Zappos\n <\/span>\n<\/div>\n
\n\n$165<\/s>\n From $116 at Nike\n <\/span>\n<\/div>\n
\n\n From $124 at Amazon\n <\/span>\n<\/div>\n
\n\n From $155 at Dick’s Sporting Goods\n <\/span>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n
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\n\nNike Men\u2019s Vomero 18 Running Shoes\n<\/span>\n<\/h3>\n<\/div>\n
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I consider these a workhorse pair of shoes; the solid padding can withstand repeated ground impact, so they feel resilient on runs. However, the stability is even better, and the slightly firmer midsoles can especially benefit folks who mostly get their miles in by walking and need some extra balance assistance.<\/p><\/div>\n

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\n\n$155<\/s>\n From $117 at Nike\n <\/span>\n<\/div>\n
\n\n From $147 at Amazon\n <\/span>\n<\/div>\n
\n\n$155<\/s>\n From $150 at Zappos\n <\/span>\n<\/div>\n
\n\n $155 at Foot Locker\n <\/span>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n
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Summer Cartwright\/CNN Underscored<\/figcaption>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n

\nRelated article<\/span>\nThe best Hoka orthopedic shoes for joint pain, according to podiatrists<\/span>\n<\/p>\n<\/div>\n

\n How to choose the best Nike walking shoes\n<\/h2>\n
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\n For expert insight on choosing the best Nike walking shoes, I consulted with podiatrists to determine exactly what features make for high-quality, supportive sneakers.\n <\/p>\n

\n Features that encourage forward motion\n<\/h3>\n

\n The biggest difference between walking and running shoes is what their midsoles (the cushioning) are designed to do. Running shoes will help you rebound while walking shoes propel forward motion. For example, Nike\u2019s Motiva 2 walking-specific shoes have firmer midsoles to boost forward motion, while its running shoes have more responsive, cushiony midsoles to help feet rebound off the ground more efficiently.\n <\/p>\n

\n Rocker bottoms can also encourage forward momentum and proper walking form while decreasing joint stress. Every shoe on this list features this kind of outsole design.\n <\/p>\n

\n Evaluate your stride\n<\/h3>\n

\n Everyone has a different gait, and determining yours can help you find a proper pair of walking shoes. Many shoe specialty stores like Fleet Feet or Marathon Sports offer gait analysis, so it\u2019s worth visiting a location to get this information.\n <\/p>

Read more \u2018Islamic Republic of Japan\u2019: Trump\u2019s verbal flubs are piling up<\/a><\/p>\n

\n Toe-drop, the distance between where your toes and heels sit inside the shoes, matters as well. If you\u2019re a forefoot or midfoot striker, the Vomero 18 shoes and the Pegasus 42 shoes may be suitable for you, because they have the largest toe-drops (each around 14 millimeters). This means they have extra padding in the heels, which can help prevent irritation. This larger drop size is also beneficial for people who experience Achilles strain, since it takes pressure away from the area.\n <\/p>\n

\n The Vomero Plus shoes have a 10-millimeter toe-drop, the Motiva 2 shoes have a 9-millimeter toe-drop and the Structure Plus shoes have an 11-millimeter toe-drop. These shoes with slightly lower toe drops could be more suitable for heel strikers who don\u2019t need as much heel protection.\n <\/p>\n

\n Fit is crucial\n<\/h3>\n

\nDr. Nicole Graf, a doctor of podiatric medicine and the founder and CEO of Lexington Podiatry, said walking shoes should have a secure fit throughout the midfoot and heels. However, they shouldn\u2019t feel stiff or restrictive. If shoes are too tight, she said the improper fit could cause discomfort, blisters, numbness and even change your gait. Additionally, she said if shoes are too loose, they\u2019ll lack support and feet might slide around.\n <\/p>\n

\n Wide toe boxes boost comfort\n<\/h3>\n

\n Toes need adequate space to spread so feet can efficiently land and push off the ground, Graf said. Dr. Miguel Cunha, podiatrist and founder of Gotham Footcare, agrees and adds that when toes splay naturally, there\u2019s less risk of forefoot pressure arising.\n <\/p>\n

\n To ensure your shoes have enough wiggle room, try them on at the end of the day when feet tend to swell. This accounts for any natural foot expansion that may occur on your walks.\n <\/p>\n

\n Secure heel cups\n<\/h3>\n

\n Heels slipping inside shoes can lead to instability. Some models are made with deeper heel cups or added structure in the area to secure feet in place and prevent this from happening. Graf said shoes with proper support should feel \u201clocked in the heel and the midfoot while still giving the toes enough room to move naturally.\u201d\n <\/p>\n

\n If your usual walking route is around a city or neighborhood with uneven ground or brick, you\u2019ll want a pair of shoes that offers stability and heel support to prevent your ankles from rolling. Stability shoes are also ideal if your form needs correcting.\n <\/p>\n

\n Consider your personal comfort needs\n<\/h3>\n

\n If you experience joint pain, are prone to plantar fasciitis or have other medical conditions, it\u2019s best to consult your doctor for their footwear recommendations. They can help you figure out if shoe features, like thicker foam midsoles, built-in arch support or rocker soles, could add comfort and benefit your stride.\n <\/p>\n

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\"Pushpul<\/figure>\n<\/figure>\n\n<\/div>\n
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Madison Yerke\/CNN Underscored<\/figcaption>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n

\nRelated article<\/span>\nI\u2019m a marathoner with arthritis. I swear by these Pushp\u00fcl Flex 3 recovery slides for comfort<\/span>\n<\/p>\n<\/div>\n

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