{"menuItems":[{"label":"The best shoes in Australia","anchorName":"#the-best-shoes-in-australia"},{"label":"Methodology","anchorName":"#method"},{"label":"Frequently asked questions","anchorName":"#frequently-asked-questions"}]}
For this list, we picked shoes based on actual customer reviews and ratings on Amazon and key features. For every category, we carefully chose parameters based on our research and determined products with the highest review score within those parameters.
ASICS' Gel Nimbus 22s are neutral joggers made for long runs. These shoes have a Flytefoam Propel midsole for shock absorption and AHAR outsole that is lightweight. They also feature GEL technology at the front and back for added comfort. Additionally, these have a moulded EVA sock liner.
Customers gave positive feedback on the shoes' durability, comfort and stylish design. They are breathable and well-padded, ensuring that your feet are protected from impacts during runs. Despite being advertised as lightweight, several customers found the shoes heavier than other options out there. But reviewers added that the weight isn't a huge concern, considering these shoes are high-performance and suitable for long-distance running.
Nike Men's Air Versitile III Basketball Shoes are our pick for the best basketball shoes for men. They have a rating of 4.3 out of 5 stars from over 200 reviews on Amazon.
These shoes have Nike's Air Sole unit cushions, keeping your heels protected from court impacts. They also have a midfoot saddle for stability and circular traction patterns, allowing you to pivot and change direction effortlessly. These are soft and cushiony, suitable for guards and forwards.
One of our picks for the best basketball shoes in Australia right now, the Nike Air Versitile IIIs are a crowd-pleaser. Customers found the pair durable, affordable and versatile – these can be used for running, walking and training. They are also breathable, providing ample ventilation for sweaty feet. Reviewers found the laces too short, but this seems to be a minor issue.
For walking, we recommend Skechers' Men's Go Walk Evolution Ultra – Impeccables as the best men's option. On Amazon, they have a rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from over 11,000 reviews.
The Skechers Men's Go Walk Evolution Ultra – Impeccables are a lightweight pair designed for extra cushioning and rebound with every step. They weigh 240g per shoe with a 1.5" heel and a woven, layered mesh fabric upper. The shoes also have synthetic toe and heel panel overlays and padded collars.
The general sentiment is that these shoes are affordable, lightweight and breathable. Aside from gaining a spot on our list of the best walking shoes for men, they have won over many customers who found the shoes suitable for walking or standing for extended periods. The insoles are cushioned and supportive. Others also liked that they are machine washable and easy to put on. However, some found the outsoles flimsy, adding that they flatten after just a couple of months.
The Under Armour HOVR Phantom is our pick for the best gym shoes for men. They have a rating of 4.4 out of 5 stars on Amazon.
The Under Armour HOVR Phantoms balance flexibility and cushioning, offering comfort and high performance. The shoes provide a "zero-gravity feel", maintaining energy return to minimise impact in every step. These also have a micro thread upper with a compression-like fit. Additionally, they have a 3D-moulded midfoot panel with laser perforations for breathability.
Customers praised the product's durable build, high performance and breathability. The shoes are well-padded, ensuring that your feet are stable when you do any workout routine. According to reviewers, these are lightweight and fit true to size. However, the shoes aren't suitable for orthotics, which may be a con if you have flat feet.
With a full-grain leather upper and durable toe caps, the Intercept Low Rise shoes are a durable option for beginners and pro hikers. They have a compression EVA foot frame for cushioning and mesh lining for ventilation. These also feature Vibram outsoles and a 4.5mm lug.
According to reviewers, these shoes are great for most terrains. They are breathable, offering superb traction and comfort. Customers also found these lightweight and stable. Others loved that they could control odour, which is suitable if you have sweaty feet. However, the shoes aren't water-resistant, which might be unsuitable for winter hikes.
We selected the Salomon Speedcross 4 Trail Running Shoes as the best option for men. On Amazon, they have a rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars from more than 14,000 reviews.
Featuring 6mm lugs, the Speedcross 4s are suitable even on wet trails. These shoes have a precise foothold for a secure and firm fit. Additionally, they have moulded EVA midsoles for comfort and anti-debris mesh uppers for breathability and protection against rocks and other hard objects.
Customers gave positive feedback on the shoes' stability, reasonable price tag and ease of use. They are lightweight and well-ventilated, keeping the feet cool during hot days. According to reviewers, these also have a good grip and impact absorption. Additionally, they are cushiony and offer enough arch support for flat feet. But several others found the shoes' tread too aggressive for road running.
If you're looking for the best skate shoes, we recommend VANS' Men's Old Skool Shoes as the best choice for men. They have a rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars on Amazon.
The iconic Old Skool Shoes feature a low top and reinforced toe caps for durability. These also have padded collars for added support and flexibility, and the brand's signature waffle outsole for a firm grip. Apart from being available in unisex sizes, these shoes also come in various colours.
With sleek design and high performance, the VANS Old Skool are a favourite among skaters and fashion aficionados. They are comfortable, lightweight and stylish. The outsoles are quite thick with a good grip, ensuring that you're supported while doing any trick. However, they tend to get very hot and sweaty after extended periods. The outsoles are also stiff, according to some reviews.
For men with plantar fasciitis, we selected the Skechers Men's Gowalk 5 – Elastic Stretch as the best shoes. On Amazon, they have a rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars from more than 3,000 reviews.
The Skechers' Men's Gowalk 5s are made of durable synthetic materials. These shoes feature lightweight, responsive ULTRA GO cushions and Comfort Pillar technology for added comfort. They also have mesh fabric upper and Air Cooled Goga Mat insole systems for breathability.
Apart from being comfortable, customers loved that these shoes offer superb arch support and well-padded midsoles. They also have a contoured design footbed for a custom fit and added stability. Reviewers mentioned that they are lightweight and easy to clean. The slip-on style makes the shoes easy to put on as well. However, this version runs wider than older ones.
The adidas Men's Powerlift 4 is our pick for the best men's weightlifting shoes. They have a rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars on Amazon.
The adidas Men's Powerlift 4 shoes feature a strong canvas upper with a reinforced heel counter. They have Adiwear outsoles, an open forefoot and a snug fit, ensuring that your feet are secure during training sessions. Aside from a locked-down feel, the shoes are lightweight and come in various colours.
The general sentiment is that these weightlifting shoes are stable, grippy and lightweight. Customers loved the sleek design and durable canvas material. Despite being snug, reviewers mentioned that they fit true to size – even for wide feet. They are breathable as well. A few customers reported that the Velcro strap falls apart within weeks, but this seems to be an isolated concern.
With a rating of 4.4 out of 5 stars on Amazon, we recommend the Crocs on the Clock Clogs as the best men's shoes for nurses.
The Clogs feature an enclosed toe and heel to meet various workplace standards. They have a relaxed, tapered fit in the back of the heel for a comfortable yet secure fit. According to the manufacturer, these also have enhanced arch support and slip-resistant treads for all-day wear.
Despite their clinical design, these Crocs are a favourite among those who stand on their feet all day. They are lightweight, comfortable and supportive. The added arch support is also a bonus for flat-footed individuals. They are water-resistant and easy to clean as well. However, they provide little to no ventilation, which is less than ideal if you already have sweaty feet.
For the best men's water shoes, we selected the KEEN Newport sandals. They have a rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars on Amazon.
The Keen Newport sandals have waterproof leather and a non-marking rubber outsole. They also have multi-directional patterns, helping with traction of different surfaces. Apart from a hydrophobic mesh lining, these come with compression-moulded EVA midsoles for support.
Customers said that these shoes are comfortable right out of the box. They are easy to clean and durable. The straps are also adjustable, ensuring a snug and secure fit for any feet type. These sandals provide arch support for those with flat feet as well. A few customers found these heavier than other water shoes, but added that it's not really a huge issue given their durability and comfort.
Our pick for the best men's shoes for flat feet are the ECCO Seattle Slip-On Loafer. On Amazon, they have a rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars.
These ECCO shoes have soft leather uppers and a moisture-absorbent textile lining. They also feature a removable leather-covered inlay sole with the brand's fibre system for increased ventilation. Apart from being airport-friendly, the shoes have a slip-on design for ease of use.
The general sentiment is that these shoes are supportive, stylish and lightweight. Reviewers said that they provide superb arch support on their own, but you can also use orthotics for added cushioning and comfort. Others also liked that they're suitable for more professional settings. However, they might look too formal for casual walks. A few others wished the shoes had thicker inner soles for better stability and support.
Our pick for the best running shoes for women are the Brooks Adrenaline GTS 20s. On Amazon, they have a rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from over 6,000 reviews.
Brooks Adrenaline GTS 20s feature GuideRails in the midsoles, preventing the feet from rolling in or out. These shoes also have a blown rubber outsole for durability and soft cushioning with DNA LOFT to protect your feet from hard impacts.
Customers gave positive feedback on the shoes' comfortable fit, secured lace system and breathability. They are lightweight and have enough slip resistance for running on wet surfaces. Reviewers added that they are suitable for people with wider feet. However, this model's sizing is inconsistent with older versions.
We selected the adidas Harden Vol. 5 Futurenatural Basketball Shoes as the best basketball shoes for women. They have a rating of 4.1 out of 5 stars on Amazon.
The Harden Vol.5 Futurenatural shoes have adidas's latest fit system, ensuring that the shoes are comfortable and snug. They also have a seamless mould, Boost midsoles and Lightstrike cushioning for comfort and impact protection.
Apart from being stylish, customers praised the product's durability and versatility. The shoes could work as a casual pair or as a solid option for basketball. These have thick cushioning that is secure and breathable, according to reviewers. They also fit true to size, even for those with broader feet. But customers found that you need to wear these for a couple of days before they become comfortable enough for the court.
We recommend the Skechers Women's Go Walk Joy Walking Shoes as the best walking shoes for women. They have a rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars from more than 29,000 Amazon reviews.
These Sketchers walking shoes have a mesh fabric upper and a 5GEN midsole for comfort. They also feature Goga Mat insoles for added cushioning and support. As well as a 1.5" heel, these shoes are available in a wide range of colours.
In addition to being a crowd-pleaser, the Go Walk Joy shoes are part of our list of the best walking shoes for women. Customers gave positive feedback on their breathability, comfort and durability. These are lightweight and would naturally expand for a contoured fit. However, they still run narrow and may not suit those with broader feet. Others also found the sizing inconsistent compared to other Go Walk models.
With soft foam core cushions and firm outer layers, the Nike Free Metcon 3 offers a stable base and rigid grip for training. These shoes feature Nike Free technology in the forefoot for flexibility and agility. They also have a durable mesh to keep feet cool and comfortable.
Aside from being reasonably priced and stylish, customers praised the product's breathability and durable construction. They are lightweight, but stable enough to support feet during difficult routines. The sides are rigid to support side-to-side movements as well. However, some reviewers found the arch too high for their liking. These shoes also run slightly smaller than other shoes from the brand.
Our pick for the best women's hiking shoes are the Merrell Women's Moab 2 Vent Hiking Shoes. On Amazon, they have a rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars.
These hiking shoes from Merrell have a 5mm lug depth and a Vibram sole for support and stability. They also feature M Select FIT.ECO+ blended EVA footbeds, protecting the heels from shock and impacts. Apart from a moulded arch, these have suede leather and mesh uppers for ventilation.
According to reviewers, these are durable, breathable and lightweight. At under $100, they are also an affordable yet solid option if you're on a budget. Reviewers added that contoured footbeds are extra comfy, while others found the mesh lining helps keep their feet dry for extended periods. But for several customers, they aren't the most stable hiking shoes out there.
If you're looking for the best option for trail running, we chose ASICS' Gel-Venture 7 Running Shoes. They have a rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars on Amazon.
The ASICS Gel-Venture 7s have rearfoot GEL cushioning to absorb shocks and protect the feet from impacts. They also feature moulded EVA midsoles, synthetic and fabric uppers, and Ortholite sockliners.
Part of our list of the best trail running shoes available online, these ASICS shoes are durable, affordable and lightweight. Customers reported that these offer good grip, allowing them to take on any trail without worrying about stability. Additionally, these shoes help keep feet dry and cool, which is fantastic for summer runs. However, the shoes run narrow and have minimal arch support.
For skating, we selected the FitFlop Women's Sania Skates Loafers as the best shoes. They have a rating of 4.3 out of 5 stars on Amazon.
The FitFlop Women's Sania Skate Loafers have featherlight midsoles that are contoured for better support. These also feature flexible EVA cushioning, flex lines cut at the bottom for free movement and slip-resistant rubber pods.
Customers gave positive feedback on the shoes' versatility, good grip and sleek design. They can be worn as stylish everyday footwear or as a skating workhorse. They are durable and lightweight, providing enough ventilation to keep feet dry and cool. A few reviewers added that they have superb arch support for those with flat feet. These shoes run big, so we recommend getting at least half a size smaller for a more comfortable fit.
Vionic Women's Curran Rechelle Casual Sneakers is our pick for the best shoes for women with plantar fasciitis. On Amazon, they have a rating of 4.1 out of 5 stars.
These Vionic sneakers feature removable mesh-covered EVA footbeds and a grippy outsole for added stability. They also have a soft textile lining for ventilation and a lace-up closure for a secure fit. The Curran Rechelle model comes with various designs, featuring nubuck, suede or leather uppers.
According to customers, these shoes provide superb arch support and cushioning, thanks to their orthotic-supportive insoles. They are sleek and lightweight, making them a viable option for those who are on their feet all day. Reviewers added that they provide ventilation to keep their feet dry and cool, especially on hot days. The shoes are more expensive than other sneakers for plantar fasciitis, but customers said their durability and design are well worth it.
We recommend the Reebok Women's Nano 9 Cross Trainer Shoes as the best women's weightlifting shoes available online. They have a rating of 4.3 out of 5 stars from more than 3,000 reviews on Amazon.
The Nano 9 Cross Training Shoes are made of durable, lightweight materials, providing stretch and support while you lift. They also feature a soft rubber midsole protection wrap and a bootie construction with cushioning in the forefoot for high-performance comfort. According to the manufacturer, these are suitable for HIIT workouts, weightlifting, cardio and running.
Despite being affordable, these shoes are a favourite among fitness buffs. They are durable, lightweight and have well-padded soles, ensuring your feet are comfortable and supported during workouts. The outsoles have good grip and stability, according to customers. They added that they are versatile enough to be used for any exercise. But for a few others, they're not flexible enough for long-distance running.
With a rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars on Amazon, we selected the New Balance Women's FuelCore Nergize V1 Sneaker as the best women's shoes for nurses.
Made of 100% synthetic materials, these New Balance shoes have midsole cushioning for a responsive all-day ride and NB Memory Sole Comfort inserts with a plush feel in every step. Apart from a sleek design, these offer a supportive fit and mesh lining for ventilation. The shoes are also suitable for work and light exercises.
The general sentiment is that these are an affordable choice for nurses and other people who are on their feet for extended periods. They offer a good grip for stability and a lightweight feel, so your feet are comfortable all day. According to customers, they have enough arch support for those with flat feet. However, the toe boxes are narrow, which may be a con if you have bunions.
These shoes are designed for aqua aerobics and other water-based fitness activities. They have removable Nitracel insoles and drainage ports, so water won't get stuck inside the shoes. As well as a synthetic mesh upper, these also have a webbing midfoot cage and a rubber outsole for a firm grip on wet surfaces.
Customers praised the shoes for being lightweight, comfortable and reasonably priced. These have great stability and grip, ensuring that you won't slip on wet surfaces. Reviewers added that they're easy to put on and are breathable. The drainage ports also help keep water from staying inside the shoes. Others found the rubber outsoles flimsy, adding that they started falling apart in less than a year, but this seems to be an isolated issue.
For flat feet, we recommend Dr Scholl's No Chill Sneakers as the best option for women. They have a rating of 4.3 out of 5 stars on Amazon.
With a microfibre upper and a smooth finish, the Dr Scholl's No Chill Sneakers are supportive yet stylish. These have a slip-on construction, classic round toes and goring side inserts for a custom fit. They are also lightly padded and feature the brand's BE FREE Energy Technology for maximum comfort. Apart from being lightweight, these have levelled platforms for added heel support.
Customers gave positive feedback on the shoes' design, durable material and grippy outsoles. They have removable cushioned insoles for added support, allowing you to walk for hours without any heel pain. Reviewers mentioned that they are easy to put on, lightweight and cushiony. However, the shoes' toe boxes are not well-ventilated, making them uncomfortable for those with sweaty feet.
Amazon prices last updated on 5 December, 2023 at 08:01 ameBay prices last updated on 5 December, 2023 at 09:13 am
Methodology
44 Brands considered
215 Products compared
24 Best products chosen
We compared over 200 shoes from more than 40 brands.
We then assessed hundreds of customer reviews and ratings on Amazon.
The products on this list are chosen by our editorial team and are not selected based on commercial relationships.
Why you can trust our picks
We considered the following shoe brands:
adidas
Aleader
APL
ASICS
Beita
Brooks
Champion
Columbia
Converse
Crocs
Diadora
Domes
Dr Scholl’s
ECCO
Everlane
Fila
FitFlop
Geox
Hush Puppies
inov-8
JABASIC
JOOMRA
Merrell
Mizuno
New Balance
Nike
On Running
Oranginer
Puma
Reebok
SAGUARO
Salomon
Saucony
Skechers
Teva
Timberland
Umbro
Under Armour
Vans
Veja Condor
Vibram
Vionic
Wilson
WILTENA
For this list, we carefully picked products with the highest customer ratings on Amazon. We ended up with a total of 215 shoes for comparison.
We then researched each product and its features. We also considered ratings and customer reviews on Amazon (as of August 2021). We came up with what we believe are the 24 best shoes you can buy right now in Australia.
We value our editorial independence, basing our comparison results, content and reviews on objective analysis without bias. However, Finder may receive compensation when you click some links on our site. Learn more about how we make money from our partners and why you can trust our guides.
Frequently asked questions
Make sure your feet are thoroughly clean before wearing shoes. Use foot powder if your feet are sweaty. Let your shoes air dry after taking them off and storing them. You can also use sole inserts with deodorant and anti-sweat features to keep your shoes from being stinky.
Running shoes are more flexible and cushioned than walking shoes. They have the proper support and traction needed to protect your feet from shock and hard terrains while running. Walking shoes are stiffer, but they're comfortable enough when worn for extended periods. You can wear your running shoes for walking, but your walking shoes don't offer enough protection and support from running impacts.
Choose shoes that have great arch support and removable insoles to support orthotics. The shoes should also feel snug in the back and mid-sole to protect your feet from sliding, but they shouldn't feel tight at all.
The ideal weightlifting shoes should have raised heels and a firm sole to protect the feet from shocks while allowing better energy transfer into the ground. A firm sole also helps with stability, allowing you to create better traction.
Ericka Pingol is a writer for Finder specialising in best guides. Using tested methodology, Ericka has been helping Australians choose the right product across hundreds of categories since 2020. Ericka has a Bachelor of Arts in English from the University of the East, Manila. As well as being passionate about helping people save money when shopping for their latest purchases, Ericka has a background in writing about property investment, personal finance and health. When not writing best guides, you can find her lost in the pages of a good book or experimenting with watercolour painting.
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