While I’m a lot of things (a commerce editor, a dog person, and sometimes even a wannabe nudist), I’m definitely not a runner. To each their own—but personally, I’d choose a leisurely stroll around Central Park or a hike over a 5k any day.
Most popular “walking shoes” I’ve tried are designed with runners (not walkers) in mind. These bestselling pairs boast sleek, aerodynamic features to help marathoners beat their personal bests. So when I received Ryka’s Devotion X Max to test for SELF’s 2024 Sneaker Awards, I was intrigued. Here was a sporty pair of shoes supposedly created…just for walking?
I wasn’t expecting much—with my high arches, tendency to overpronate (or roll my ankles inward as I walk), and blister-prone feet, I have very high standards when it comes to shoes. But after wearing the Devotion X Max for a whole summer of farmer’s market runs, museum strolls, and trips to the lake, it’s now my all-time favorite walking sneaker. Here’s why.
Who the shoe is (and isn’t) for
According to Ryka, the Devotion X Max is made for “high-performance fitness walking.” It’s heavily cushioned and lab-tested to ensure it absorbs shock well as you wear it. Plus, the shoe has earned the American Podiatric Medical Association’s (APMA) Seal of Acceptance, meaning a panel of podiatrists has confirmed that its design helps keep your feet healthy.
In my experience, this shoe is easy to wear for pretty much everything. I reach for mine when I’m taking the trash out, conquering my weekend errands, and walking my dog. They even make the four flights of stairs up to my apartment slightly more bearable after a long day of being on my feet—no small feat (heh).
Original photo by SELF senior commerce editor Sarah Felbin
One thing to note: While Ryka sells these sneakers in medium and wide widths, the brand doesn’t offer any options for people with narrow feet. My feet are on the wider side, and I found that the medium width still felt pretty spacious. So if you tend to have issues with your shoes being too roomy, this pair may not be your best bet.
Fit and feel
Trying the Devotion X Max on for the first time was a near religious experience: I’ve never, ever slipped my feet into a more comfortable sneaker. (My jaw literally dropped when I first stood up in them!) There’s a thick layer of cushioning throughout the entire midsole, with additional pads underneath the forefoot and heel to help protect your feet from impact.
