Avia Men's 5000 Running Sneakers vs Athletic Works Men's Walking Slip-On Sneakers

Buy the Avia 5000 if you want a laced running shoe with foam cushioning and a 11.2 mm heel drop for actual miles. Buy the Athletic Works slip-on if you mostly walk and want to skip laces. The Avia is the more substantial shoe, with a layered mesh and leather upper and a rubber outsole; the Athletic Works is a lighter, simpler slip-on with a memory foam insole. Both rate 4.5, but the Avia has far more ratings behind that score.

• Choose the Avia 5000 if you run or walk for exercise and want a laced shoe with foam cushioning, a rubber outsole and a neutral fit.
• Choose the Athletic Works slip-on if you want an easy on-and-off shoe for errands and short walks with no laces to tie.