Walking long distances, whether for work or exercise, can take its toll on your body and your shoes.
Walking or running, especially on hard floor surfaces, causes an impact on your feet that can affect your joints, such as the knees and hips and your back.
Then again, long-distance walking may also cause extensive wear and tear on your shoes.
So, I want to introduce you to a range of New Balance shoes for Long Distance walking. The shoe models we have chosen have special support and comfort features for long-distance walking and a more durable design and outsoles to last longer.
Long Distance Walking and Your Feet
Our bodies are designed to walk and move around; even if you are on your feet for long-distance walking, they are adaptable and withstand pressure.
However, when walking long distances, it is important to wear the right footwear. Walking carries a considerably low risk of injury n comparison to running, though you may still suffer from foot pain or joint pain.[1]
Walking long distances impacts your feet and joints, and shoes that offer proper cushioning and support can help soften that impact.
It is also important to look at your walk mechanics, whether you overpronate or underpronate, your foot shape, and whether you have a low or high arch type, as all these things, in the end, can affect your feet.
On the other hand, ill-fitting shoes could cause blisters and chafing or squeeze your feet to the point where you may form bunions, corns, or Calluses.
Taking Care of Your Feet for Long Distance Walking
You need to take care of your feet, especially for doing long-distance walking;
- Foot Changes – Your feet may change as you age, so that you may need more cushioned and supportive shoes. Also, measure your feet before choosing a size. Measure the length and the width and compare that to the shoe size and shape.
- Foot Type – Look at the shape of your arch, you need a neutral support shoe for a higher or normal arch type, whereas you will need stable motion control or a stability shoe for a lower or flat arch.[2]
- Pain – If you feel pain when walking, you may need to change your shoes. For pain in the heel, opt for a shoe with extra heel cushioning. If you have bunions or Metatarsal pain, opt for a wider width shoe.[3]
- Environmental Needs – When choosing shoes, consider the environments you are walking in most. It may be rainy, very hot, or cold, and choose shoes that accommodate the weather conditions and natural elements.
Features of a Good New Balance Shoe for Long Distance Walking
The range of shoes we will be discussing is quite diverse; thus, I am looking at all the features of different models from New Balance;
- Uppers – The Uppers can consist of genuine leather, synthetic leather, or a blend of leather and mesh materials. Some models are engineered mesh and more breathable or flexible knit. Some models have a no-sew construction with less friction or a Phantom liner to reduce friction. There are models with the Ultra Heel design with a higher heel fit or a padded collar for a more secure fit.
- Insole – Most New Balance shoe models come with their popular soft NB insole that is removable. Some models have a firmer Pu insole or a more molded insert for support. Mostly the insoles are removable, allowing you the use of your orthotics.
- Midsole – New Balance offers a range of midsole options that cater to every foot type, concern, and activity. The IMEVA and ACTEVA midsoles are more versatile and flexible for neutral feet. At the same time, their EBCAP and PU midsoles are more suitable for stability. Then you Have their softer and more lightweight Fresh Foam and REVlite midsoles that are ideal for higher arc types and neutral pronation. The Popular ABZORB midsole offers exceptional shock absorbency and is excellent for long-distance walking.
- Outsole – generally most New Balance shoe models have a very durable rubber outsole. However, the Ndurance rubber outsole has exceptional abrasion resistance and is the best solution for long-distance walking.
- Options – As you will see, New Balance shoe models offer many color variations, wide width fit options and plenty of sizes.
- Support Features and Technology – Worth mentioning is that some of the more Orthopedic shoe models are Medicare / HCPCS code = A5500 rated and may very well be eligible for Medicare reimbursement.[4][5] In some models, other features include a midfoot shank for stability and forefoot pads for extra cushioning.
Key Specs Compared
Numbers match the reviews below (tap to jump).
| No. | Shoe | Type | Upper | Cushioning (as listed) | Outsole |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | New Balance Fresh Foam X 1080 V15 | Running Shoe | Mesh | Fresh Foam X | Rubber |
| 2 | New Balance Fresh Foam Roav V1 | Running Shoe | Not stated | Fresh Foam | Rubber |
| 3 | New Balance Fresh Foam X 1080 V14 | Running Shoe | Mesh | Fresh Foam X | Not stated |
| 4 | New Balance Fresh Foam X 1440 V1 | Running Shoe | Not stated | Fresh Foam X | Rubber |
| 5 | New Balance Minimus TR v2 | Training Shoe | Not stated | FuelCell | Rubber |
| 6 | New Balance Fresh Foam x | Running Shoe | Knit | Fresh Foam x | Rubber |
– = not stated on the Amazon listing. Specs as stated by the listing, not tested by us; check the listing before you buy.
Reviews: The Best New Balance Shoes for Long Distance Walking
Listed below, I have added some New Balance shoe models with comfort and durability features ideal for long-distance walking.
1
Supportive Cushioned Running Shoe for Daily Miles
The New Balance Fresh Foam X 1080 V15 comes in men’s and women’s versions, and this running shoe is worth a look for New Balance long distance walking shoes.
- All-new Infinion technology delivers premium underfoot cushioning with enhanced energy return, designed for long-lasting performance run after run, a useful trait in New Balance long distance walking shoes.
- Built with NDurance rubber in high-wear areas for increased durability, ensuring reliable traction and longevity through hundreds of miles, helpful on the surfaces you meet during walking.
- Stylish molded mesh upper provides a breathable, supportive fit with a modern aesthetic that transitions easily from run to daily wear, a feature worth weighing when comparing New Balance long distance walking shoes.
- Plush cushioned tongue and heel tab deliver added comfort and easy on-off convenience, reducing pressure points during long runs, which helps keep long stretches of walking comfortable.
- All-new Infinion cushioning delivers long-lasting performance with enhanced cushioning and energy return, providing a plush yet responsive ride mile after mile.
- Built for daily road running with a balanced combination of soft cushioning and responsive energy return that runners have come to rely on in the 1080 series.
- Breathable Upper Design: lightweight, ventilated upper keeps your feet cool and dry during long runs, with a secure fit that moves naturally with your stride.
2
Cushioned Running Shoe for Daily Miles
The New Balance Fresh Foam Roav V1 comes in men’s and women’s versions, and this running shoe is worth a look for New Balance long distance walking shoes.
- Plush Fresh Foam cushioning absorbs impact and delivers a soft, comfortable ride for road runs and everyday wear, a useful trait in New Balance long distance walking shoes.
- Targeted heel support provides a secure, locked-in fit that keeps your foot stable and comfortable throughout your run, the kind of support many people look for in New Balance long distance walking shoes.
- Ndurance Outsole: durable NDurance rubber outsole technology handles road miles and daily wear while maintaining reliable traction on multiple surfaces, a practical detail for walking.
- Bootie Construction: soft, sock-like bootie wraps your foot for a smooth, comfortable feel with no irritating seams against your skin, which helps keep long stretches of walking comfortable.
- Removable Arch Support: the removable insole with built-in arch support adapts to your unique foot shape for personalized comfort all day.
- Truly Unique: the New Balance Fresh Foam Roav v1 running shoes are the ultimate in casual athletic style.
- Feel like you’re running or walking in the clouds.
3
Cushioned Breathable Running Shoe for Daily Miles
The New Balance Fresh Foam X 1080 V14 comes in men’s and women’s versions, and this running shoe is worth a look for New Balance long distance walking shoes.
- Fresh Foam X midsole foam with approximately 3% bio-based content delivers the brand’s most cushioned Fresh Foam experience for incredible comfort, a useful trait in New Balance long distance walking shoes.
- These running shoes for women feature a gusseted tongue designed to help keep debris out.
- Synthetic and engineered mesh upper, which helps feet stay comfortable through walking.
- Adjustable lace closure for a customized fit, so it is easier to get a secure, comfortable fit for walking.
- Men’s and women’s versions are listed separately on Amazon, each with its own size range.
- Check the Amazon listing for current colors and size availability before you order.
- Compare the size chart on the listing, since fit can vary between colorways and versions.
4
Cushioned Supportive Running Shoe for Daily Miles
The New Balance Fresh Foam X 1440 V1 comes in men’s and women’s versions, and this running shoe is worth a look for New Balance long distance walking shoes.
- Fresh Foam X midsole delivers the brand’s most cushioned Fresh Foam experience for incredible comfort, a useful trait in New Balance long distance walking shoes.
- Wrapped rubber outsole for a bold look, helpful on the surfaces you meet during walking.
- Bootie upper construction hugs your foot for a snug, supportive fit, a feature worth weighing when comparing New Balance long distance walking shoes.
- Due to variances created during the development and manufacturing processes, all references to 8 mm drop are approximate.
- These running shoes are made with a knit mesh upper to keep your feet comfortable, which helps feet stay comfortable through walking.
- Men’s and women’s versions are listed separately on Amazon, each with its own size range.
- Check the Amazon listing for current colors and size availability before you order.
5
Cushioned Training Shoe for Gym Workouts
The New Balance Minimus TR v2 comes in men’s and women’s versions, and this training shoe is worth a look for New Balance long distance walking shoes.
- FuelCell midsole foam with approximately 3% bio-based content delivers a propulsive feel to help drive you forward, a useful trait in New Balance long distance walking shoes.
- Midfoot rubber wraps add increased protection, grip, and durability for rope climbs, helpful on the surfaces you meet during walking.
- Herringbone rubber outsole design in forefoot and heel provide traction and durability, a practical detail for walking.
- Minimus construction combined with premium liners provide sock-free option.
- Due to variances created during the development and manufacturing processes, all references to 4 mm drop are approximate.
- Men’s and women’s versions are listed separately on Amazon, each with its own size range.
- Check the Amazon listing for current colors and size availability before you order.
6
Cushioned Lightweight Running Shoe for Daily Miles
The New Balance Fresh Foam x comes in men’s and women’s versions, and this running shoe is worth a look for New Balance long distance walking shoes.
- These womens running shoes feature Fresh Foam X midsole technology for premium cushioning every stride, a useful trait in New Balance long distance walking shoes.
- Breathable knit upper provides superior comfort in these New Balance running shoes women love for daily runs, which helps feet stay comfortable through walking.
- Durable rubber outsole ensures lasting performance in these Fresh Foam running shoes mile after mile, a useful trait in New Balance long distance walking shoes.
- Lightweight construction reduces fatigue in these comfortable running shoes women rely on for every workout, so the shoe does not feel heavy during walking.
- Fresh Foam X midsole foam with approximately 3% bio-based content delivers the brand’s most cushioned Fresh Foam experience for incredible comfort.
- Structured yet breathable upper.
- Due to variances created during the development and manufacturing processes, all references to 6 mm drop are approximate.
Index Table: Top Rated New Balance Shoes for Long Distance Walking
| No. | Shoe | Men ♂ | Women ♀ | Features | Brand |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | New Balance® - Supportive Cushioned Running Shoe for Daily Miles |  |  |
| New Balance |
| 2 | New Balance® - Cushioned Running Shoe for Daily Miles |  |  |
| New Balance |
| 3 | New Balance® - Cushioned Breathable Running Shoe for Daily Miles |  |  |
| New Balance |
| 4 | New Balance® - Cushioned Supportive Running Shoe for Daily Miles |  |  |
| New Balance |
| 5 | New Balance® - Cushioned Training Shoe for Gym Workouts |  |  |
| New Balance |
| 6 | New Balance® - Cushioned Lightweight Running Shoe for Daily Miles |  |  |
| New Balance |
Sources
General background on foot health and footwear. This is not medical advice; see a doctor or podiatrist about foot pain or a foot condition.
- NHS: Get running with Couch to 5K
- Cleveland Clinic: How to Pick a Running Shoe
- American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons (OrthoInfo): Athletic Shoes
- Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services: Therapeutic Shoes for Persons with Diabetes – Policy Article (A52501)
- Medicare.gov: Therapeutic shoes & inserts
Update History
- Oct 2026: Updated New Balance 880V11 to New Balance Fresh Foam X 1080 V15
- Oct 2026: Updated New Balance DRFT V1 to New Balance Fresh Foam Roav V1
- Oct 2026: Updated New Balance Fresh Foam 1080V11 to New Balance Fresh Foam X 1080 V14
- Oct 2026: Updated New Balance 1400 V1 to New Balance Fresh Foam X 1440 V1
- Oct 2026: Updated New Balance Fresh Foam Roav V2 to New Balance Minimus TR v2
- Oct 2026: Updated New Balance 680V7 to New Balance Fresh Foam x
- Aug 2022: First published
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