Nike Motiva
Pros
- Rocker makes for effortless walks
- Audaciously plush cushioning
- Extra lively and bouncy ride
- Out-of-the-box comfort
- Very wide and stable base
- Durable outsole
- Amazing wear resistance in the upper
Cons
- Lacks breathability for hot weather
- Sole develops wrinkles easily
- Rocker takes time to get used to
- Lacks grip on wet surafces
Key Features
- Super-high cushioning: Provides exceptional comfort for all-day wear.
- Moderate stability: Offers support without feeling restrictive.
- Moderate flexibility: Allows for natural foot movement while walking.
- Soft foam collar: Enhances the fit around the ankle.
- Widened forefoot, arch, and toe box: Ensures a comfortable fit for diverse foot shapes.
- Durable outsole pattern: Delivers reliable traction across different surfaces.
- Not intended for use as Personal Protective Equipment (PPE): Designed specifically for casual walking.
Specifications
- Origin: Imported
- Sole material: Rubber
- Outer material: Plastic
- Inner material: Foam
The Nike Motiva is an ideal choice for travelers seeking comfort during long days exploring diverse pavements and cobblestone streets in Europe. This shoe has been rigorously tested and verified to provide substantial cushioning, smooth transitions, and a reliable outsole.
Wearing the Motiva allows for extended wear without discomfort, thanks to its generous 34.9/25.6 mm cushioning that enhances long-distance walking. Our shock absorption test revealed a measurement of 133 SA, which is 19.8% more cushioned than average. Additionally, its unique underfoot waves help distribute pressure evenly.
The Motiva features a prominent rocker design that facilitates forward movement with reduced effort. To support this rocking effect, the midsole exhibits a necessary level of stiffness, as confirmed by our flex test showing the Motiva is 43.1% more rigid than the average walking shoe.
The outsole combines durability and traction, ensuring stability on various surfaces, including wet roads. We measured the rubber's density at 92.0 HC, which is 21.4% above average, indicating it can withstand extensive use over time.
A notable drawback of the Motiva is its thick and dense upper, which limits comfort in warmer weather conditions. As a result, this shoe is best suited for cooler seasons when its design provides optimal support.
On Cloudtilt
Pros
- Plenty of cushioning for long hours on feet
- Soft yet bouncy ride
- Feels nice and light on foot
- Abrasion-resistant upper and outsole
- Wide and steady platform
- Excellent outsole grip
- Easy on-and-off with bungee laces
- Upper made of recycled material
Cons
- Not very breathable
- Flimsy inner lining and insole
Key Features
- Rubber logo at sides for added style
- Padded collar and footbed enhance comfort
- Ultra lightweight design ensures ease during wear
- Ombre pattern provides a modern aesthetic
- Round toe design suitable for everyday wear
Specifications
- Origin: Imported
- Sole material: Synthetic sole
- Outer material: Performance mesh
- Inner material: 100% Recycled Polyester
The On Cloudtilt is an ideal choice for those seeking comfort during extensive city tours on foot. Its design focuses on maintaining consistent comfort, featuring generous cushioning that provides impact protection, responsiveness, and stability throughout long walks. Verified lab tests confirm its lightweight construction contributes to its designation as our best walking shoe for Europe.
This model lives up to its name, delivering a sensation akin to walking on clouds. The significant cushioning effectively minimizes ground feel, supported by a tall stack height of 35.5/26.8 mm. The CloudTec compression system enhances the overall experience, absorbing harsh impacts, which is evidenced by its impressive 132 SA score in our shock absorption test, reducing impact by 18.9% compared to average shoes.
Additionally, the CloudTec technology promotes energy return, demonstrated by a high 58.1% score in our lab evaluations, which lessens the effort needed for continuous walking. Weighing just 9.4 oz (266g), this shoe ensures a lightweight experience that does not feel burdensome during extended use.
Even as fatigue set in after multiple days of walking, the wide platform dimensions of 117.7/96.7 mm provided secure footing. This feature instilled confidence with each step, especially while navigating uneven cobblestone streets.
However, it is important to note that the plush upper may result in inadequate airflow. Consequently, the On Cloudtilt can cause overheating when worn in warmer summer conditions.
HOKA Transport
Pros
- Well-cushioned for all-day wear
- Spacious toe box
- Superior traction
- Reliable outsole durability
- Easy to slip in and out
- True-to-size fit
- Easy to clean
- Sustainable
Cons
- Not great for warm weather
- Squeaky during break-in
Key Features
- Waterproof GORE-TEX bootie: Keeps your feet dry with its robust construction made from 71% recycled polyester.
- Eco-friendly materials: Made with 100% rPET mesh and 30% sugarcane EVA midsole, showcasing Hoka's commitment to sustainability.
- Vibram® Megagrip outsole: Provides exceptional traction with 4mm multi-directional lugs, ideal for navigating various terrains.
- Reflective elements: Increases visibility during low-light conditions, making evening walks safer.
- Molded PU sockliner: Offers superior cushioning and comfort, incorporating 50% soybean oil in its composition.
Specifications
- Origin: Imported
- Sole material: Ethylene Vinyl Acetate (EVA)
- Outer material: Polyester
- Inner material: Textile
The Hoka Transport is an excellent walking shoe for all-day wear in Europe, providing comfort and support for extended travel. Its design effectively protects against discomfort, such as blisters and fatigue, making it suitable for continuous use.
During our lab analysis, we found that the padded interior of the Hoka Transport significantly contributes to its overall comfort. The tongue thickness was measured at 7 mm, which is 3 mm more than the average, ensuring a secure fit without causing chafing or rubbing.
Underfoot, the Hoka Transport excels with a midsole softness measured at 21.9 HA, which is 25.5% softer than average. This level of cushioning strikes a balance that provides firmness without excessive squishiness, suitable for more than 12 hours of walking during European tours.
Notably, the midsole retains its performance even in colder conditions. After being placed in a freezer for 20 minutes, the hardness recorded at 31.4 HA was still 20.9% softer than average, indicating its adaptability for snowy weather.
However, the Hoka Transport may not perform as well in hot weather conditions. Our breathability test revealed a score of only 2/5, indicating limited airflow, which could lead to discomfort in warmer climates.
ASICS GT 2000 14
Pros
- Improved FF Blast Max foam
- Outstanding outsole durability
- Stable design without feeling intrusive
- Reasonable weight
- Same price maintained despite upgrades
- Well-crafted, supportive upper
- New outsole design improves flexibility
- Dependable traction
Cons
- Limited breathability
- Tapered toebox may feel restrictive
- Still lacks a truly energetic ride
- PureGEL doesn't add much value
Key Features
- Woven mesh upper: The breathable material helps keep your feet dry during runs.
- Asymmetric tongue wing: Provides a comfortable and secure fit around the midfoot while minimizing tongue movement.
- Trampoline-inspired outsole pod: Improves stability during the toe-off phase of your stride.
- 3D GUIDANCE SYSTEM: An adaptive stability system that offers support through platform geometry and controlled deformation.
- Rearfoot PureGEL technology: A softer version of the traditional GEL technology, about 65% softer, enhancing comfort and shock absorption.
Specifications
- Origin: Imported
- Sole material: Rubber
- Outer material: Synthetic Fiber
- Inner material: Polyester
The ASICS GT 2000 14 is an ideal choice for women who prioritize arch support in their walking shoes. It offers a cushioned yet stable base, making it suitable for extended periods on foot and beneficial for individuals with overpronation or other foot conditions.
This model features a 3D Guidance System, which incorporates high sidewalls in the midfoot and a broad base to enhance stability and reduce the risk of ankle twists. Our measurements indicate a width of 117.6/97.1 mm, confirming its supportive design. In our manual twist test, the shoe demonstrated a firm response, earning a rating of 4/5 for its ability to provide a secure footing.
With a stack height of 36.9/28.2 mm, the GT 2000 14 effectively minimizes ground impact, offering increased comfort by reducing pressure on joints and muscles. Furthermore, it boasts a significant shock absorption score of 132 SA, indicating that the foam is 18.9% more protective than the average walking shoe.
However, it is important to note that the shoe provides limited airflow. Women who are concerned about overheating and sweaty feet may want to consider alternatives.
On Cloud 6
Pros
- Smooth heel-to-toe transitions
- True to size and width
- Great traction on wet and dry
- Flexible construction
- A bit lighter than average
- Breathable for warm weather
- Promising outsole durability
- Slip-on design with easy on-and-off
Cons
- Steep price hike with minimal changes from the v5
- Not for all-day wear
- Not very supportive
- Upper lacks wear resistance
Key Features
- Rubber sole for durability and traction.
- Reflective accents enhance visibility in low-light conditions.
- Lightweight design promotes effortless wear.
- Cushioned collar and perforated tongue provide added comfort.
- Removable insole allows for customization and easy cleaning.
- Patented CloudTec sole delivers superior cushioning.
- Designed for everyday wear, suitable for various activities.
- Round toe for a relaxed fit.
Specifications
- Origin: Imported
- Sole material: Rubber
- Outer material: Performance mesh
- Inner material: Fabric
The On Cloud 6 is a straightforward walking shoe best suited for those who prioritize comfort and ground control during their activities. Our lab tests confirm that its minimalist profile contributes to significant stability, further enhanced by its high-quality outsole. Due to its adaptive and lightweight design, we recognize it as our top choice for On walking shoes.
Cloud 6 minimizes resistance to movement with its light and flexible build, weighing only 9.7 oz (274g), making it easy to wear throughout the day. It flexes naturally with each step, achieving a 7.9% higher flexibility score than average. This feature promotes an unobtrusive experience, allowing for unencumbered movement.
The shoe’s minimalist profile of 28.3/19.5 mm enhances mobility while providing a secure sensation on varying terrains. Users can expect responsive ground feedback, which allows for better stride control and adjustment during walks.
Another aspect contributing to this control is the reliable traction of the Cloud 6. In our friction test, it recorded an impressive 0.48 score, ensuring good grip on both dry and wet surfaces. Its outsole also demonstrates notable durability, exhibiting 64.3% less damage than average in our Dremel test.
However, individuals seeking extensive cushioning for prolonged periods on their feet may find the Cloud 6 lacking in that department. For better impact protection, a more supportive platform is recommended.
Hoka Bondi SR
Pros
- Comfort is off-the-charts
- Extra thick cushioning for all-day support
- Smooth heel-to-toe transitions
- Alleviates foot discomfort (podiatrist approved)
- Stable for a neutral shoe
- Truly slip-resistant outsole
- Superior material quality
- Water-resistant leather upper
- Accommodating toebox
Cons
- Heavy and bulky
- Not breathable
Key Features
- Water-Resistant Leather: Protects against spills and moisture.
- Slip-Resistant Outsole: Ensures better traction on various surfaces.
- EVA Midsole: Delivers exceptional cushioning for all-day wear.
- Full Ground Contact Design: Provides stability and improves foot motion.
- Memory Foam Inner Material: Adds comfort and conforms to your foot shape.
Specifications
- Sole Material: Rubber
- Outer Material: Synthetic
- Inner Material: Memory Foam
- Closure Type: Lace-Up
- Available Size: 9
- Color: Black
The Hoka Bondi SR is a leading choice for work walking shoes, particularly suited for those who need all-day comfort and protection from various hazards. Our testing confirmed that the shoe offers significant stability, keeping feet dry even when exposed to liquid spills. Throughout our evaluation, we experienced no instances of tripping, instability, or compromised quality.
During lab testing, we conducted a smoke test to assess the shoe's impermeability, which resulted in minimal smoke escaping, earning a breathability score of 1/5. This indicates a highly effective upper that resists water intrusion. Furthermore, the shoe provides excellent traction; we found it exceptionally sticky, ensuring surefootedness during hurried movements at work.
Lab measurements indicated that the outsole hardness of the Bondi is 73.1 HC, making it 3.7% softer than average. This specific hardness level helps the outsole grip surfaces effectively, preventing slips on wet areas. Additionally, the robust construction of the Bondi was demonstrated by tests using a Dremel tool, which showed only minimal wear on the upper material.
However, it is important to note that the Bondi is not lightweight, weighing in at 14.3 oz (404.0g), which is 50.5% heavier than the average work shoe. While its durability and protective features are commendable, those seeking a lighter shoe may find this aspect to be a drawback.