Hi, my name is James, and I’m a knee, foot, and ankle specialist with over 10 years of experience in providing patients with expert footwear advice. Today, I’m here to help you find the best waterproof walking shoes, whether walking on uneven trails or wet roads or just looking for something comfortable and supportive for all-day standing.
We’ve selected three distinct types of shoes for this comparison: the New Balance 880 v14 Gore-Tex, the Asics GT 2000 v12 Gore-Tex, and the Hoka Speedgoat 6. Each of these shoes has specific benefits depending on the type of terrain, stability needs, and conditions underfoot. I’ll also explain how each shoe’s features influence how they feel on your feet, whether you’re on a flat trail, going uphill, or tackling technical terrain.
1. New Balance 880 v14 Gore-Tex: Balanced Comfort with Subtle Stability
The New Balance 880 v14 Gore-Tex is the lightest shoe in this selection, weighing approximately 247g (Men’s size 9 US). It offers 31mm of cushioning in the heel and 23mm in the forefoot, with an 8mm heel drop. This higher drop reduces strain on the Achilles, making it beneficial for those with Achilles tendinitis or Achilles tendon pain.
Cushioning and Support
The Fresh Foam X cushioning in the midsole provides a soft, balanced feel—cushioned but not overly plush. This makes it ideal for those dealing with metatarsalgia or Morton’s neuroma, as the shoe absorbs impact and minimizes vibration, reducing pressure on the forefoot.
Stability Elements
Classified as a stable neutral shoe, the 880 v14 includes sidewalls in the heel that cradle the foot, preventing excessive side-to-side movement—especially helpful on mild trails or uneven surfaces. The broad base of support in the forefoot, along with the subtle sole flare, adds an extra layer of stability, making it suitable for daily walks, grassy trails, and slippery conditions.
Medical Benefits
- Achilles Tendinitis: The 8mm heel drop can reduce strain on the Achilles tendon.
- Metatarsalgia & Morton’s Neuroma: Cushioned forefoot absorbs impact, alleviating pressure on sensitive areas.
- Mild Instability: Broad base and sidewalls help keep the foot stable, even on uneven terrain.
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2. Asics GT 2000 v12 Gore-Tex: Moderate Stability with Targeted Support
The Asics GT 2000 v12 is a moderate stability shoe weighing around 266g (Men’s size 9 US). It has 34.5mm of cushioning in the heel and 26.5mm in the forefoot, offering a similar 8mm drop to the New Balance. However, its FF Blast+ cushioning is slightly firmer and more responsive, making it an excellent choice for faster-paced walking.
Enhanced Stability with 3D Guidance System
The GT 2000 v12’s 3D Guidance System and medial support make it ideal for those who overpronate or need more support for controlling inward foot movement. This can be especially beneficial for people with posterior tibial tendonitis or plantar fasciitis, as it reduces strain on the medial side of the foot and supports the arch.
Traction and Grip
The AHAR rubber sole and grip pods provide excellent traction on wet, slippery terrain, while the shoe’s sole flare and broad base further enhance stability. This makes it a great choice for people who want a supportive, durable shoe for everyday wear, as well as mild trails.
Medical Benefits
- Posterior Tibial Tendonitis: The 3D Guidance System and medial support help control pronation, alleviating strain on the posterior tibial tendon.
- Plantar Fasciitis: Arch support and stability elements help reduce stress on the plantar fascia.
- Achilles Tendinitis: The heel drop eases pressure on the Achilles tendon, supporting recovery.
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3. Hoka Speedgoat 6: Maximum Cushioning for Versatile Terrain
The Hoka Speedgoat 6 is the most cushioned option, with 40mm in the heel and 35mm in the forefoot, and a lower 5mm drop. Designed as a road-to-trail shoe, it features a Vibram MegaGrip outsole with 5mm lugs for superb traction on both wet and dry surfaces, making it ideal for technical trails and uneven terrain.
High Stack Height and Stability Features
The Speedgoat 6 is ideal for individuals with metatarsalgia, Morton’s neuroma, or forefoot arthritis. Its high cushioning absorbs impact, providing a softer landing and minimizing shock to the forefoot. However, with a high stack height, it may not be as stable on rocky terrain as lower-stacked shoes. To counter this, Hoka has incorporated sidewalls and sole flare to improve stability, while the mild rocker helps facilitate a smooth transition from heel to toe.
Considerations for Fit
The shoe has a snug fit in the forefoot, which may feel tight for wider feet or individuals with bunions. A wide version is available, which can help those with broader feet avoid pressure points.
Medical Benefits
- Ankle Instability: Sidewalls and sole flare help stabilize the foot on uneven terrain, preventing rolling.
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Which Shoe is Right for You?
- New Balance 880 v14 Gore-Tex: Best for daily walkers seeking a cushioned yet stable neutral shoe. Great for reducing Achilles strain and providing comfort for forefoot conditions.
- Asics GT 2000 v12 Gore-Tex: This shoe is ideal for those needing moderate stability, especially those with plantar fasciitis or posterior tibial tendonitis. It also provides support for faster walking or light hiking.
- Hoka Speedgoat 6: The go-to choice for anyone needing maximum cushioning on rough terrain, with enough grip and stability to handle various surfaces. Perfect for those with forefoot pain who need extra padding.
These waterproof shoes are designed to support different medical needs and activity levels. Check out our full video reviews and articles for more insights on performance, durability, and specific conditions.
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