No one loves to flush money down the drain. That is why durability comes top while shopping for shoes. According to SoleScience, a shoe will need replacement after 8-12 months. Running shoes, on the other hand, need to be replaced after crunching up 500-700 kilometers.
However, some boots and sneakers can serve for more than two years with proper care and maintenance. Such extremely top quality shoes can accommodate harsh use and accompany you anywhere.
Note this though; you can find exceptionally durable shoes that meet both your style and fashion needs. However, you’ll need to pay more for them-which is totally okay (and mostly expected).
In this review, we are going to take a dive into some of the most durable shoes for everyday use. Since preferences vary with individuals, this list will feature both boots and sneakers in multiple colors and designs so you can get what you want.
In case you are tight on time, feel free to check out our top recommendation: Timberland PRO Men’s Powertrain Sport Shoe. Not only is this shoe long-lasting, but it is versatile as well.
Now let’s take a look at all other amazing options you can go with.
Things to Consider While Buying Durable Shoes
Here’s is a bit of advice to consider while shopping for durable shoes, so you don’t end up wasting your money:
Longevity
How would you feel if you bought a shoe for over $50 and three months down the line it’s conked? Effing annoyed, right? Unfortunately, things like eyelets, outsoles and stitching are usually the first to give in.
So when buying the most durable work shoes, consider the material used. Leather is tough and can brace so many odds. Suede comes next as it does last fairly longer than synthetics, which come in last.
However, it’s possible to find a shoe that mixes leather and synthetics, suede and leather, and suede and synthetics. Since leather and suede tends to be stiff, any of these combinations usually offers a long-lasting performance with the best comfort.
Style
Just because you are out for the most durable walking shoes doesn’t mean you should settle for an ugly pair. We all want to look good like our friends, relatives, or even the movie stars we adore. In case you didn’t know, the first step to feeling good about yourself is, in fact, looking good.
There are many shoes that are just as comfy and stylish as they are durable. A few good examples are Adidas Originals Men’s Stan Smith Leather Sneaker, Merrell Men’s Jungle Moc, and Reebok Classic Harman Run Sneaker.
Comfort
Comfort has to come first when buying shoes because it can determine if they can be useful and for how long. There are so many things that can make a shoe uncomfortable.
The first one is the nature of the material. Supple leather, breathable fabrics, and suede are gentle on the feet. Genuine leather, on the other hand, can be inflexible and ruin your day time strolls.
Getting your shoe in the right size also matters a lot. Otherwise, it will crump up your toes or come off whenever you wear it. That is not something you want to look forward to.
Now, here is another important factor that determines comfort; padding. Most sneakers are padded around the collar and tongue. The presence of EVA foam insoles and midsoles improves cushioning and gives energy back to the feet.
Support
Arch support is a vital part of the foot as it prevents too much pressure from being applied to the arches. If a shoe features a contoured footbed, cupped heel or any foam of relaxed fit technology, then it can provide reliable arch support.
Arch issues may not be a big issue for those with normal feet. So if you have flat feet or higher arches, then make sure to look for the best arch support shoes.
Outsole Quality
most durable walking shoes tend to include the best traction. Usually, the sole either features premium grippy technology or simply bears massive lugs. If you want a pair that doesn’t leave markings on the floor then consider non-marking rubber.
Flexibility
Without flexibility, you can’t get a lot from a shoe. Walking generally involves bending of the feet, and a good shoe needs to follow along smoothly.
So how do you know if a shoe is supremely flexible? It’s simple. Look for the presence of a rubber sole, synthetic, suede or supple leather uppers. Shoes with composite shanks rather than steel are also fairly flexible.
Breathability
The world is not perfect, and that is why it is hard to get the best in everything, including shoes. Many durable shoes are built with a tough top for longevity. In the process, you find that breathability is compromised. If you get too much ventilation like in sneakers, the quality goes down.
However, there are shoes that give you both a bit of durability and breathability. Merrell Jungle moc, for instance, comes with dual gores that promote air inlet. Other shoes sport supportive leather overlays that overlap with breathable mesh fabrics for both longevity and air circulation. Put just try to look for the middle ground.
Most Durable Shoes
Name | Price | Made of | Sole |
---|---|---|---|
Timberland PRO Men's Powertrain Sport Shoe | Check Price | Nylon | Synthetic |
Salomon Men's Xa Pro 3D Trail Running Shoes | Check Price | Textile and Synthetic | Rubber |
adidas Originals Mens Stan Smith Leather Sneaker | Check Price | Leather and Synthetic | Rubber |
New Balance Men's MW877 Walking Shoe | Check Price | Suede/mesh | Rubber |
Reebok Classic Harman Run Sneaker | Check Price | Synthetic | Rubber |
Skechers Men's Cessnock Food Service Shoe | Check Price | Mesh | Rubber |
KEEN Utility Men's Atlanta Cool-M Industrial Shoe | Check Price | Leather | Rubber |
Dr. Scholl's Shoes Men's Harrington II Work Shoe | Check Price | Leather | Rubber |
Caterpillar Men's Converge Steel Toe Industrial Shoe | Check Price | Leather | Rubber |
Merrell Men's Jungle Moc Composite Toe Shoe | Check Price | Leather | Rubber |
1. Timberland PRO Men’s Powertrain Sport Shoe
If you are looking for the most durable work shoes, Timberland PRO Men’s Powertrain will most assuredly tick most of your boxes. This is a work-ready kick that boasts of a protective alloy toe end for extreme safety.
What makes it an amazing deal is that it’s one of the few latest inventions that take a sporty design yet provides industrial-grade protection. Thanks to the athletic styling, you can enjoy the same comfort level that is synonymous with high-end running shoes.
Besides toe protection, this shoe shields you further against electrical hazards. A built-in anti-fatigue technology keeps you walking and working all day long without feeling tired. And when it comes to traction, the outsole is super grippy to give you a sure footing on wet and slippery surfaces.
Albeit the bulky looks, it does feel a lot lighter than conventional working shoes. In the case of light showers, the ripstop nylon upper is reliable for the first few months. So if you work in a demanding environment, Timberland PRO Men’s Powertrain should be at the top of your list.
Top features
- Ripstop nylon upper
- Synthetic outsole
- Athletic styling
- Low-profile design
- Alloy toe safety
- Breathable mesh linings
- Anti-fatigue technology
Pros
- Offers alloy toe protection
- Slip-resistant outsole
- Athletic-grade comfort
- Includes anti-fatigue tech for many hours of use
- Assured lightweight performance
- Affordably priced
Cons
- They might not last as long as conventional work boots
If you are here looking for a sporty gear that offers the same protection and durability as work shoes, Timberland PRO Men’s Powertrain is what you need. It is bold, stylish, comfortable, and lightweight for long day use. So far, previous buyers consider it a superb deal.
2. Salomon Men’s Xa Pro 3D Trail Running Shoes
Salomon is currently gaining traction as a formidable shoe brand that is slowly catching up to Nike, Adidas, and other top brands. One of their solid offers is Salomon Men’s Xa Pro 3D running shoe.
Designed primarily for trail running and hiking, this shoe boasts of the finest enduring quality. The top meshed fabric is encased between chassis stabilizers to provide maximum support and flexibility without sacrificing air circulation.
Salomon Men’s Xa Pro 3D running shoes bear an amazing bold construction that can easily win any runner’s heart. It is uniquely fashioned with a precise fit technology, which, together with the minimalistic laces, delivers a fast yet secure fit.
The front of the shoe is reinforced with rubber pads while the heel features a cap. These additions help to boost protection while running or walking in the wild. And when it comes to traction, you can always count on its high abrasion Contactgrip outsole.
Top features
- Material: textile and synthetic
- Protective heel cap
- Reinforced toe end
- 3d chassis stabilizer
- Quick lacing system
- Heel pull tab
Pros
- Extra-lugged design for superior traction
- A bold and beautiful construction that can last several years
- Extremely meshed for air circulation
- A quick lacing system
- Richly-padded for next-level comfort
Cons
- Might squeak a little at first
- Maybe a little narrow for those with wider feet
Salomon Men’s Xa Pro 3D running shoe is built for pro runners and other individuals who want the best running and hiking shoe that provides more than just comfort. The 3D advanced chassis, contact grip outsole and protective elements in the heel and toe make it one of the most durable shoes for everyday use.
3. adidas Originals Mens Stan Smith Leather Sneaker
Let’s kick things off with Adidas Originals Men’s Stan Smith Sneaker. This is a universally accepted shoe that so far knows no bounds. Albeit made for Tennis (and named a legendary tennis player), this shoe fits practically every situation, whether running, walking, or riding.
This all-purpose shoe scores a lot on durability. The leather top guarantees many years of relentless performance with little to no major maintenance. Some people claim to have used this kick for 5+ years.
The supple leather, synthetic top up, and minimal padding around the Stan Smith edge boost comfort. There are tiny perforations on the sides to promote feet breathability. Additionally, this is a zero-drop shoe with a lightweight design for a better experience.
Top features
- Synthetic leather
- Lace design
- Zero-drop construction
- Padded collar and tongue
- Coated eyelets
Pros
- A timeless design that never goes out of fashion
- Lightweight performance
- Extremely durable
- Adequately padded for comfort
- Affordable pricing
- True to size
- Unlimited color choices
Cons
- Mild flaws that don’t warrant a mention
Adidas Originals Men’s Sneaker is comfortable, lightweight, and always true to size. Its all-purpose design makes it useful for many urban occasions and can match practically any clothing. Furthermore, it has garnered multiple awesome reviews and ratings from previous customers.
4. New Balance Men’s MW877 Walking Shoe
New Balance has and still are some of the greatest sneakers in the shoe world. If you are a seasoned sneakerhead, you probably want something that can take on more miles than what current models offer. One such kick is New Balance Men’s MW877 Walking Shoe.
This shoe features a tough suede exterior rather than conventional soft synthetics. This makes it a bit tougher for handling rough terrains and frequent use. The Walking Strike Path tech is included to offer stability so you can confidently cloak more miles.
New Balance Men’s MW877 Walking Shoe sports a sleek athletic styling to meet sports shoe lovers’ desires. Conveniently, the collar and tongue are enormously padded to offer the same level of comfort you get from special care kicks like the best shoes for neuropathy. Furthermore, the ABZORRB midsole cushioning and an included premium insert help to soothe your feet some more during extremely long walks.
Top features
- Suede and mesh upper
- Athletic design
- ABSORB midsole (premium cushioning)
- Walking Strike Path tech (for foot stabilizing)
- 11 mm drop
- Lace design
Pros
- Lasts longer than most sneakers
- Has a good-looking athletic design
- Optimally padded for comfort
- Included a foot stabilizing technology for long walks
- Fully breathable
Cons
- A little extra wide
New Balance Men’s MW877 is a typical New Balance shoe in that the quality and workmanship is superb. The shoe’s suede top is long-lasting, while breathable mesh panels help make it breathable as other best running sneakers. The bottom line is, it lasts fairly longer than most conventional sneakers.
5. Reebok Classic Harman Run Sneaker
Reebok Classic Harman Run Sneaker is just the type of sneakers you should be going for if you have a penchant for top-grade running shoes. This jogger packs an earthly feel with a Sturdy design that appeals to your demanding exercise schedules.
You will love the casual low-cut design, which allows the ankles to turn freely. Such a design can go smoothly with any casual wear from jeans, khakis, cropped tops, sweat pants, and other sporty attires.
Reebok Classic Harman Run Sneaker doles out a premium level of comfort thanks to the plush collar, tongue, and soft leather. This cushy feel is taken a notch higher by the die-cut EVA midsole. Basically, this kick is designed to add a spring to your every stride, helping to push you further without spending lots of energy.
These stylish trainers also feature an ortholite sockliner that wicks away moisture, enables airflow, and inhibits odor and fungus growth. This should allow you to focus more on your exercise rather than being bothered by a wet shoe. The outsole comes with superior treads so you can always retain a sure footing.
Top features
- Leather upper and Synthetic upper
- Cotton blend lining
- EVA midsole
- Rubber outsole
- Lace-up closure
- Ortholite insole Technology
Pros
- A truly affordable running sneaker
- Made from lightweight and durable material
- Superior traction rubber outsole
- Plush cushioning and EVA midsole for athletic-standard comfort
- Breathability panels that keep your feet cool all-day
- A stylish low-cut design that supports ankle movement
Cons
- Runs large so go down by half size
The Reebok Classic Harman Run Sneaker is very well suited for jogs, runs, and long walks. Its grandeur design and multiple eye-candy colors make it just as fashionable as Nikes and Adidas. However, it is much cheaper but with the durability that is close to that of work shoes.
6. Skechers Men’s Cessnock Food Service Shoe
Courtesy of being a food service shoe, Skechers Men’s Cessnock Food Service Shoe brings to you the one thing work shoes are known for-slip resistant outsole. This sneaker lets you confidently walk on wet surfaces without the fear of losing your stability thanks to Skechers own premium slip-resistant sole technology.
On top of that, you get a fully breathable upper that happens to resist both water and stains. Skechers mostly deal with athletic-style shoes, and this one looks exactly the same. The tongue and collar are mildly padded to cut down on weight and do away with the depressing bulky looks you see on many running shoes.
Skechers Men’s Cessnock Food Service Shoe comes with a quick-tie bungee lacing with no ends. Add this design to its relaxed fit construction, and you have yourself one of the best fitting shoes.
This fabulous collection is extremely durable and doesn’t fall apart quickly, like other kitchen shoes. It is one of the most durable dress shoes.
You can slide into and not look weird at all. To put the cherry on top, it runs true to size, so there is no need to worry about returns.
Top features
- Fabric top
- Bungee lacing
- Memory foam insole
- Low-top sneaker
- Breathable mesh exterior
- Relaxed fit design
Pros
- Water and stain-resistant uppers
- Reliable traction in wet floors
- Extremely ventilated
- Well-padded for comfort
- Designed to last longer than typical running sneakers
- Runs true to size
Cons
- No significant issues
Skechers Men’s Cessnock Food Service Shoe is an excellent food service shoe not only for those who work in the kitchen but also for all sneaker lovers. In fact, its sporty design makes it just as fashionable as other high-end sneakers for daily strolls and runs. The past user reviews highly recommend it too.
7. KEEN Utility Men’s Atlanta Cool-M Industrial Shoe
Let’s close this review section up in style, don’t you agree? Now meet Keen Utility Men’s Atlanta Industrial Shoe. This is the one kick that gives you bits of all the finest features from stunning looks to comfort.
This low-top sneaker-like industrial shoe will instantly charm anyone who is into fashionable footwear. The lacing pattern, the hooks they attach to, and the dual loops inspire adoration.
But it’s not just about looks. Keen Utility Men’s Atlanta Industrial Shoe is practical in more than one way. Its exterior features a tough leather for top protection to industrialists and weekend hikers. The multiple mesh liners help to keep your feet warm in demanding environments.
This industrial shoes provide additional support through a contoured heel lock and Torsional Stability Shank, a tech that promotes midfoot support. The front comes with a steel toe to cushion the feet against impact.
Top features
- Leather top
- ESD rated
- Reflective webbing technology for extra safety
- Cleanspot NXT odor control tech
- ASTM F2412-11 certified
- A quick secure lacing system
- Mesh panels
- Torsional Stability Shank
- Contoured heel lock
- Rubber outsole
Pros
- Well styled for modern men
- Affordable yet long-lasting
- Superior arch and midfoot support
- Offers steel toe protection
- A versatile design for both work and play
Cons
- Might not last as long as work boots
With Keen Utility Men’s Atlanta Industrial Shoe, only the sky’s the limit-for sure. It’s impeccably styled to give you the best looks while at the same time offering both protection and comfort. You can get all that goodness for less than $100.
8. Dr. Scholl’s Shoes Men’s Harrington II Work Shoe
The Oxfords will never go out of fashion because we all have work to do. The problem is, most of the best work shoes don’t provide the same comfort you would get from sneakers. The one you can look to for extra support and comfort is Dr Scholl’s Men’s Harrington II Work Shoe.
Dr Scholl shoes are the epitome of comfort. Take this one for instance, it comes with a supportive memory foam insole that is further enhanced with an anti-compression technology. These two features extrapolate comfort, making this shoe nearly as effective as the best shoes for swollen feet.
Dr Scholl’s Men’s Harrington II Work Shoe is properly ventilated. This is made possible through the vented sock. There is an included Aegis microbe shield that repels odor growth. So if you find yourself in the habit of wearing one shoe to work every day, this one will not only keep you comfy but saves you the embarrassment that comes with smelly feet.
For those working in wet floors or smoothly tiled surfaces, this shoe brings along a non-marking outsole. The sole is both oil and slip-resistant and is TM144, and SATRA TM63 certified.
Top features
- 100% leather
- Non-marking rubber outsole
- Aegis microbe shield
- Dri-Lex lining for moisture regulation
- Included memory foam and an anti-compression insole
- Vented sock
Pros
- Advanced comfort and cushioning
- Formidable Oil and slip-resistant outsole
- Vented for optimal ventilation
- Prevents buildup of bacteria
- Long-lasting genuine leather uppers
Cons
- Could be better but there are no serious flaws
If you want a shoe that looks and feels good, go for Dr Scholl’s Men’s Harrington II Work Shoe. It’s oxford-styled, well-ventilated, and adequately padded for those who spend more than 6 hours at work. So far, its previous customer reviews are encouraging.
9. Caterpillar Men’s Converge Steel Toe Industrial Shoe
Working in industrial places shouldn’t restrict you to huge boots that are all work and no play. There are many durable shoes that are nicely styled for stunning looks while keeping you safe at work. The finest example of that is Caterpillar Men’s Converge Steel Toe Industrial Shoe.
This shoe’s casual appeal is fantastic. The good looks couple with the leather topping guarantee’s reliable company for many years to come. Both the outsole and midsole are flexible to allow for an easy rebound. The outsole is oil and slip-resistant.
As you’ve already noticed, most shoes feature EVA foam to improve comfort. But this material can be bulky. Caterpillar Men’s Converge Shoe, instead, uses CAT’s custom EASE foam that is lightweight, flexible, extra-comfortable, and is 130% resistant to compression compared to other foam paddings.
Top features
- Leather top
- Steel toe end
- Low-top industrial sneaker
- Foam midsole
- Comfort Footbed
- Lightweight Strobel construction
- SRX outsole grip
Pros
- Lightweight performance
- Protects against electrical hazard, impact and compression
- Impressive shock absorption
- Slip-resistant outsole
- Comes in affordable packages
- A cool and fashionable design
Cons
- Poor lace quality
10. Merrell Men’s Jungle Moc Composite Toe Shoe
The one shoe that packs a boatload of features in this review is Merrell Men’s Jungle Moc Composite Toe Construction. If its sheer number of tip-top features are not enough to convince you that this is indeed a good deal, we don’t know what will.
Thanks to the full-grain leather, this jungle moc has no limits. You could traverse the Amazon forest, trek through the deserts of Las Vegas, and take a trip down the Grand Canyon in Arizona, and it would still come out unscathed.
Like the best shoes for warehouse work, Merrell Men’s Jungle Moc prioritizes comfort, support, and protection. Comfort is catered for through the padded opening, breathable lining that allows your feet to remain cool, and the EVA contoured footbed. There is also air cushioning in the heel to boost impact absorption and better stability as well.
This jungle moc takes care of support through the zonal arch support, contoured footbed (and Kinetic Fit) that promotes a better fit, and the molded nylon arch shank. Remember, a nylon shanks is more flexible than metallic varieties.
On top of all that, Merrell Men’s Jungle Moc is waterproof, offers toe protection, and bears a grippy oil and slip-resistant outsole. You are possibly wondering, ‘‘isn’t this going to cost a lot?’’ Well, guess what, you can get it for less than $100. We don’t really need to tell you that this is a steal, do we?
Top features
- Full-grain leather
- Rubber outsole
- Slip-on design with a pull tab and gore panels
- Rubber toe cap
- Mesh lining
- Heel cushioning
- Zonal arch support
- Padded opening
- EVA contoured footbed
Pros
- Lasts as long as work boots
- Designed to fit any feet shape
- Superb arch support
- Extremely comfortable for a hiking and working shoe
- Waterproof top
- Affordable given its massive number of features
- A stylish shoe for modern men
- Easy to slip in and out
Cons
- The sole quality needs improvement
Have you ever heard those in the hip hop industry say ‘‘respect the OGs?’’ Well, Merrell Men’s Jungle Moc is one of those. This is a beast that gives you protection, comfort, and support. It can go anywhere and matches a wide variety of casual wear. Furthermore, it lasts 3+ years with very little maintenance.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q. Can a shoe last a lifetime?
A. In a practical sense, no. However, a shoe can last longer, depending on its quality. Somehow, a shoe that costs $200 will last twice as long as the one that costs $100. And one that goes for a whopping $300 will most probably last too long to feel like a lifetime.
Boots and other work shoes are designed to last for more than 5 years with some maintenance, of course. Birkenstock sandals also join a group of those shoes you can use for almost a decade or more. Generally, proper care and frequent quality repairs will help your shoe withstand the test of time.
Q. Which running shoes last longest?
A. Typical ordinary running shoes like Adidas Boost don’t last long because their primary purpose is cushioning and breathability. However, if you want a running shoe that lasts fairly long, consider those fashioned for workers or for walking needs.
Examples of running shoes that last longest include Adidas Stan Smith, Skechers Men’s Cessnock Food Service Shoe, Reebok Classic Harman Run Sneaker, and New Balance Men’s MW877.
Q. How long should a good shoe last?
A. Shoes can last longer or shorter, depending on the frequency of use. However, the rule of thumb states that shoes need to be replaced after 8-12 months of service. On the other hand, running sneakers should be replaced after attaining a mileage of 500-700km (310-440 miles).
Q. What are the most durable shoe brands?
A. Brands that make the most durable work shoes are Red Wing, Keen, Timberland, Skechers, Wolverine, and Cat. These companies make shoes suited to physical labor and other detrimental or demanding workplaces.
Wrap Up
Money is hard to come by, and when shopping for shoes, it pays to consider the best deal. The most durable shoes can stick around for long and help you go about your business without ever getting stranded. Additionally, a good shoe prevents those embarrassing moments when a kick accidentally gives in while you are in the middle of a presentation or something public-related.
But here’s some heartwarming news; we’ve taken the time to sample out for you some of the most long-lasting shoes in both casual and official options. All that remains is you to pick what matches both your style and pocket. All the best.
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