I walk 3 and a quarter miles everyday before work.

I work about 6 and a half miles from home.

I am pretty much convinced I could get home eventually even if I had to walk.

I would probably feel it afterward though.

I wear some hiking shoes. they are Columbias and actually suck big time as trail shoes but seem to work pretty good as daily wear shoes. Given most of the way home is paved they would likely suffice if less than ideal.