7 Podiatrist-Recommended Running Shoes

Whether I’m walking my dog in Los Angeles, roaming the streets of New York City with friends or hiking with my parents in Colorado, I consistently spot Brooks and Hoka sneakers on the feet of many passersby. From a purely observational standpoint, they’re clearly beloved by serious runners and avid walkers alike. 

Given how often I see these shoes in the wild, I wasn’t surprised when my father-in-law, a podiatrist of nearly four decades before he retired last year, shared that he often recommends these shoes to patients. What did surprise me, however, was when he added New Balance to the mix. He assured me that this classic label has maintained its high level of excellent craftsmanship and quality since its inception over a century ago, making it one of the most trustworthy options on the market.

Since these popular shoe brands have a wide range of models to choose from, I asked him to narrow down the list to his favorites. Read on to shop his picks, including Brooks Ghost 16 running shoes, Hoka Mach 6 sneakers and more.  

Podiatrist-Recommended Running Shoes 

New Balance WW928 V3 Lace-Up Walking Shoe

My father-in-law isn’t alone in his adoration of the New Balance 928 walking shoe. It has over 2,600 perfect ratings at Amazon, largely due to its “wonderful arch support” and roomy toe box, according to this happy shopper. Another reviewer called them “very comfortable” and noted that they’re supportive without being too stiff. Shop the shoe in four colors at Amazon and Zappos.   

New Balance WW877 Walking Shoes 

New Balance designed its WW877 walking shoe with comfort in mind. Not only did the brand add a layer of padding to its tongue and collar, but it also built additional cushioning into its midsole. With its retro design and blue accents, you’ll look as good as you feel.     

Hoka Mach 6 Sneaker

My father-in-law reports that the 6 is Hoka’s lightest Mach to date. He’s also impressed by its amply cushioned foam midsole for “responsiveness and comfort” and its “good breathability” during strenuous workouts. Factoring in its wide range of colors, of which there are 21, it’s unsurprising that so many Hoka fans adore this shoe.

Hoka Mach X 2 Sneaker

If speed is your main priority, grab Hoka’s Mach X 2 sneaker. It has a plate incorporated into the design to help with propulsion and responsiveness, a curved sole for smooth heel-to-toe transitions and a gusseted tongue to keep your foot from moving while in motion. One Zappos shopper wrote that “this shoe has your back (and your calves, quads and feet).”         

Brooks Ghost 16 Running Shoe 

The Brooks Ghost 16 running shoe is adored by my father-in-law and the American Podiatric Medical Association alike for its quality and comfort. Even EatingWell editor Kristin Montemarano likened the feel of them to “walking on air.” When this many experts agree that the Ghost 16 is a “great multifunctional” shoe for everyday wear, it’s time to click “add to cart.” 

Brooks Ghost 16 GTX Running Shoe 

If you run outside in inclement weather, you should grab the Brooks GTX shoe. It has the same elements that made the Ghost line famous, but with an added water-resistant fabric in the lining of the upper. You can keep your feet dry and save money now that this sneaker is on sale for $50 off.     

Brooks Ghost 17 Running Shoe 

This iteration of the fan-favorite Ghost shoe dropped in May, bringing with it a slew of 10 beautiful colors and a host of new features: It has a redesigned upper for a tighter fit, additional cushioning in the forefront for comfort and an updated outsole for a smoother ride. Since Brooks sneakers have a habit of selling out in the brand’s most popular colors, I recommend grabbing a pair while you still can.