Podiatrists Recommend the Hoka Women’s Clifton 10 for Just About Every Type of Foot—and It’s on Sale
Plus, shop more expert-recommended walking and running shoes.
It was only about five years ago that I spotted my first pair of Hokas in the wild. Fast-forward to 2026, and the brand is still gobbling up a massive slice of the sneaker market, according to consumer insights firm CivicScience. But Hoka’s appeal goes well beyond runners and walkers. In the past six months alone, nearly every podiatrist I’ve interviewed has recommended a pair of Hokas for one reason or another, and the Clifton 10 disappointment is easily one of the models that comes up most often.
Hoka Women’s Clifton 10

$155 $124 at Hoka.com
$155 $124 at Zappos
Editor Kristin Montemarano says it’s one of her favorite walking shoes. Runners wear the Hoka Clifton 10 for marathon training. In Italy, this shoe was spotted all over. And podiatrists recommend the Clifton 10 for people with shin splints, back pain, Achilles tendinitis, wide feet and high arches. Whether you need a walking shoe or a running shoe, this Hoka could be a slam-dunk selection for its cushioning and shock absorption.
Though a fit for so many feet, the Clifton 10 might not be for you. Shop more expert-loved walking and running shoes below.
More Doctor-Recommended Walking and Running Shoes
- Brooks Ghost 17, $110 (was $150) at brooksrunning.com
- Asics Gel Nimbus 28, $170 at asics.com
- Brooks Glycerin GTS 23, $180 at brooksrunning.com
- Hoka Mach 7, $145 at hoka.com
- Altra Voyager, $155 at altrarunning.com
Brooks Ghost 17

$150 $110 at Brooksrunning.com
$150 $110 at Zappos
The Brooks Ghost is “one of the most universally well-tolerated shoes for a wide range of foot types,” said Anne Sharkey, D.P.M., FACFASfounder of Solely Podiatry, when I interviewed her earlier this year about running shoes. It has a neutral platform and excellent cushioning. Now is a great time to consider a pair while they’re $40 off.
Asics Gel-Nimbus 28

$170 at Asics.com
$170 at Zappos
This pair of Asics is recommended by podiatrists for both walking and running. They’re lightweight and have great stability and an 8-millimeter heel-to-toe drop—all features runners need in a shoe. But also, if you need a walking shoe with a little extra cushioning and shock absorption, this shoe is for you.
Brooks Glycerin GTS 23

$180 at Brooksrunning.com
$180 at Zappos
If you’re new to running, Sharkey recommends a little more cushioning, which is exactly what this Glycerin GTS model provides (compared to the regular Glycerin). The 8-millimeter heel-to-toe drop is also ideal for running, according to experts. And personally, I’ve been testing this pair for a few months now and it’s become my preferred shoe for long walks, treadmill running and the occasional sprint workout.
Hoka Mach 7

$145 at Hoka.com
$145 at Zappos
Orthopedic doctors recommend these for walking thanks to their balanced design: a wide toe box, less cushion and a lower heel-to-toe drop. Editor Kristin Montemarano has been testing the Hoka Mach 7 since its launch and has declared this “light-as-air,” breathable pair her go-to for hot summer walks in New York.
Altra Voyager

$155 at Altrarunning.com
$155 at REI
Orthopedic doctors recommended this pair of Altras for walking. While it has a little more cushion than some other shoes, it is “not excessive,” a good thing since too much cushion in a walking shoe can alter your gait. Altras also have a nice wide toe box so your forefoot can splay and stabilize you while walking.
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