If you don’t have to dress up, country walker-style walking shoes may be the perfect all-round shoe for anyone to wear.

A combination of comfort, style, and function, country walkers are truly go anywhere, do anything shoes.

Usually a combination of leather and mesh uppers, they are both durable and breathable. They are styled casually, but less “athletic” looking than many shoes, and so perfect to wear with a wide variety of casual clothes.

But because they also incorporate a high-level of performance features, such as firm mid-soles and integrated heel cups to protect your feet from sharp rocks, they can be used for light hiking.

I have used various country walker models from New Balance over the past 10 years and find that they last, on average, twice as long as any other shoe, and provide much more functional support. My feet rarely feel tired when I wear them. Because they also have better lateral support than running shoes, they are great in general athletic situations, as well.

For me, country walkers are a perfect all-purpose shoe that bridge across fitness, athletic, and causal wear situations.

If I had to pick one shoe to wear for the rest of my life, it would be a country walker-type model. You should try one on soon, too!

Men’s Country Walkers

Women’s Country Walkers