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Ready to stride confidently towards your fitness goals? Whether you’re aiming to increase your step count or reap a myriad of health benefits, walking stands out as a low-impact activity that requires little more than a high-quality pair of shoes. However, not all shoes are created equal. The best women’s walking shoes should fit you snugly, offer ample support, and ensure long-lasting durability as you log those miles.
To find the best walking shoes for women, we first spoke with footwear experts to learn more about the key features to look for when shopping. Then, we researched dozens of options from the top, trusted footwear brands. We also consulted the American Podiatric Medical Association’s list of shoes that have been awarded their Seal of Acceptance. Finally, we spent more than 736 hours wear-testing walking shoes at home in our regular routines. When testing shoes, we evaluate each one for fit, cushioning, quality, comfort, responsiveness, stability, and overall value. We also had a certified walking coach from our Review Board check this article for accuracy surrounding how to best shop for and test women’s walking shoes.
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Breathable
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Excellent responsiveness
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Very durable
Key Specs
Sizes: Women’s 5-12 | Weight: 8.7 ounces | Drop: 10 millimeters | Closure: Lace-up | Cushioning: Moderate | Materials: Mesh upper, foam midsole, rubber outsole | Our Overall Rating: 4.9/5
Who They’re For
Best for fitness walkers or women who are on their feet for most of the day.
Why We Love Them
An impressive, lightweight, durable, and supportive shoe, Ryka’s Devotion X Walking Shoe is a clear choice for our top pick. During our testing, one feature that really stood out was the shoe’s responsiveness. It feels springy and provides excellent energy return, allowing smooth strides and easy transitions. The inside of the shoe is super soft, making for an especially comfortable fit. We also noticed that the midsole offers solid arch support without feeling overly stiff.
During testing, we appreciated the spacious toe box, which allowed for enough room for our toes to splay. The shoe also comes in wide sizes if you need even more room. Despite the wide forefoot, the rear of the shoe offers a snug fit, preventing unwanted slipping. The soft mesh upper promotes good ventilation, so we had no issues with overheated or sweaty feet or blisters. A great value for the price, the Devotion X is a pleasure to walk in and makes long walks enjoyable.
Potential Flaws
- We found the toe box comfortably wide, but it may be too wide for some wearers, especially those with narrow feet.
Meet Our Testers
One of our testers prioritizes walking shoes for flat feet. They typically walk at least 10,000 steps daily for transportation and exercise, mostly on sidewalks, running tracks, and treadmills. Our other tester walks between three and four miles per day and is often chasing after their toddler. They also wear these shoes for strength training and StairMaster workouts.
What the Experts Say
“Wearing the right shoes is key to staying comfortable and injury-free. A good walking shoe can help prevent injuries and decrease foot fatigue (especially after long walks).” —Priya Parthasarathy, DPM, a podiatrist in Silver Spring, Maryland
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Lightweight and flexible
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Pillow-like comfort
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Machine-washable
Key Specs
Sizes: Women’s 5-13 | Weight: 7 ounces | Drop: Not listed | Closure: Bungee laces | Cushioning: Moderate | Materials: Engineered mesh upper, foam midsole, rubber outsole | Our Overall Rating: 4.9/5
Who They’re For
Best for wearers who want budget-friendly slip-on sneakers for walking workouts or daily wear.
Why We Love Them
The ample cushioning, slip-on style, and affordable price make Skechers’ Go Walk Flex Shoes a nice option for casual walkers. During test walks, we noticed the plush, pillow-like comfort and solid arch support right away. Despite the thick padding, we were surprised by how lightweight these shoes feel. And we love that the stretchy mesh upper hugs the foot to provide a secure fit while allowing plenty of flexibility.
The elastic bungee laces make slipping your feet right into these shoes easy—we appreciate the convenience of getting them on and off hands-free. The combination of minimal seams, smooth fabric, and snug fit prevented blisters throughout testing. Plus, the shoes are machine-washable, meaning easy cleaning when it’s time for a refresh.
Potential Flaws
- We noticed the snug fit of these shoes made our feet feel slightly warm, so we wish the upper was just a bit more breathable.
- While this pair isn’t versatile for running or cross-training activities, we think they’re a great choice for fitness walking, all-day wear, or simple strength workouts.
Meet Our Testers
Our tester has no ongoing foot issues and walks three to four days a week for exercise. She also walks for basic transportation and running errands. She looks for stylish, slip-on shoes for convenience during all of her daily activities.
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![A person putting on a Skechers Go Walk Flex Alani Walking Shoe]()
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These lightweight shoes feel incredibly supportive and are easy to slip on, thanks to their elastic bungee laces and heel tabs.
PHOTO: Verywell Fit / Katie Bowler
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![Skechers Go Walk Flex Alani Walking Shoes displayed on carpet]()
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These high-value shoes are a breeze to keep clean and can be popped into the washing machine for a refresh.
PHOTO: Verywell Fit / Katie Bowler
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Key Specs
Sizes: Women’s 5-13 | Weight: 8.3 ounces | Drop: 8 millimeters | Closure: Lace-up | Cushioning: Soft but responsive | Materials: Mesh upper, foam midsole, rubber outsole | Our Overall Rating: 4.9/5
Who They’re For
Best for wearers who need roomy or wide shoes that provide some responsiveness and cushioning for extensive walking.
Why We Love Them
One of our top New Balance shoes, this pair has just the right amount of support and cushioning to make walking comfortable—no matter how many miles you have planned. New Balance’s 1080v13 Fresh Foam Shoes feature a full-length foam midsole that packs plush cushioning without feeling heavy or bulky. We immediately noticed the shoe’s cloud-like comfort, which held up for long test walks. And the outsole’s curved rocker shape promoted smooth transitions and efficient energy transfer.
During test walks, we appreciated that the wide toe box offers plenty of room for toes to spread out or even swell in warm weather. For women who need even more space, they come in wide and extra-wide sizes. We also like the padded tongue and collar for more comfort. And the flexible, mesh upper is snug and sock-like for added stability. Unlike other models that offer limited colors in wide widths, the 1080v13 comes in various options to suit every wearer.
Also available in men’s sizes at New Balance.
Potential Flaws
- The shoes are stable and responsive but we did find the combination of the rocker design and arch support may put a little too much pressure on the arches.
Meet Our Testers
One of our testers aims for 10,000 steps a day in a combination of exercise, commuting, and running errands. She has no concerns with her feet and was looking for a more cushiony and supportive walking shoe. Our other tester also walks for leisure, fitness, commuting, and errands and has suffered from shin splints and weak arches.
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Key Specs
Sizes: Women’s 5-12 | Weight: 9.7 ounces | Drop: Not listed | Closure: Lace-up | Cushioning: Soft but responsive | Materials: Knit upper, foam midsole, rubber outsole | Our Overall Rating: 4.8/5
Who They’re For
Best for wearers that needed extra support for common foot ailments like plantar fasciitis or bunions.
Why We Love Them
If you have a history of plantar fasciitis, you can help prevent a recurrence by walking in a sneaker with good support and ample cushioning in the heel area—like Orthofeet’s Kita Hands-Free Shoes. They feature Orthofeet’s patented hands-free, slip-on system, which allows you to put on or take off your shoes without bending down. And they still have laces to adjust the fit if you need to. We also like that they come in three widths for an even more customizable fit.
When we first tried these shoes on, we were impressed with the adjustable arch support. They come with an orthotic insole, fitting spacers, and an arch booster insert, so you can find a level of support that’s perfect for you—which is crucial for keeping plantar fasciitis at bay. The midsole offers cushioning, which we found provides stability, shock absorption, and responsiveness (without the bulk). Plus, a durable rubber outsole offers traction that kept us surefooted on slick surfaces.
Potential Flaws
- Our feet did feel quite warm during some walks, so we wish the material was a bit more breathable.
Meet Our Testers
One of our testers walks a lot for work and for exercise. She’s had hip surgery in the past, so supportive shoes (especially for long periods of walking) are important to her. Our other tester also walks a lot for work and exercise and suffers from plantar fasciitis. She is interested in a supportive pair of shoes with a hands-free design, like this model.
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This highly customizable shoe is available in different widths, and also comes with an orthotic insole, fitting spacers, and an arch booster insert.
PHOTO: Verywell Fit / Brie Goldman
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The Orthofeet Kita Hands-free Sneakers feel supportive, sturdy, and grippy, allowing them to work well at the gym and outdoors.
PHOTO: Verywell Fit / Brie Goldman
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Ample arch support and cushioning
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Versatile for walking and running
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Rocker shape propels stride forward
Key Specs
Sizes: Women’s 5-12 | Weight: 8.9 ounces | Drop: 12 millimeters | Closure: Lace-up | Cushioning: Maximum | Materials: Mesh upper, foam midsole, rubber outsole | Our Overall Rating: 5/5
Who They’re For
Best if you want a pair of responsive Nike walking shoes for fitness walking.
Why We Love Them
Nike’s Motiva Walking Shoe is specifically designed with women’s feet and biomechanics in mind, with a wide forefoot and narrow heel. When we first tried them on, we immediately noticed the exaggerated rocker outsole, which propelled our stride forward as we started to walk. The rocking motion is subtle but also very effective, helping us adjust to changes in terrain as we walked in different conditions. We love the outsole’s wavy design, which produces a soft underfoot feel and springy responsiveness.
During testing, we were also impressed with the soft, breathable upper and roomy toe box. Despite the rocker shape, the shoe provides excellent arch support and reliable stability. A durable, textured rubber outsole also delivers dependable traction for walking or running on various surfaces. These shoes made us feel like we could walk 10,000+ steps daily or even run for miles without fatigue.
Also available in men’s sizes at Nike.
Potential Flaws
- Aside from the collar, which feels a little stiff, the shoe’s fit is very comfortable.
- Our feet sometimes got warm in these shoes, so they may not be good for walking and running in warmer climates.
Meet Our Testers
One of our testers gets a lot of walking in with her dog and toddler. She also has wide feet, is an overpronator, and suffers from bunions. She wears several different types of shoes for a variety of walking situations. Our other tester also has wide feet and bunions and walks through her neighborhood and park on grass and concrete.
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Lightweight feel, despite weight
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Excellent responsiveness
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Secure and comfortable fit
Key Specs
Sizes: Women’s 5-11.5 | Weight: 9.2 ounces | Drop: 10 millimeters | Closure: Lace-up | Cushioning: Maximum | Materials: Knit upper, foam midsole, rubber outsole | Our Overall Rating: 4.9/5
Who They’re For
Best for wearers who need a lightweight-feeling shoe that’s also durable enough for daily walks.
Why We Love Them
Adidas’ Ultraboost Light Running Shoe is our favorite for walkers who want a well-cushioned shoe that won’t weigh them down. During testing, the shoe’s plush midsole felt soft and responsive, putting some spring in our step as we walked for miles. The cushioning also offers reliable shock absorption, protecting feet and joints—whether walking or running.
The shoe’s upper material feels super lightweight and extremely breathable while providing flexibility for free movement. We were also able to slip into these shoes hands-free. The roomy toe box gives room to wiggle and splay, while the heel cup is snug for a secure fit. We also noticed that the durable rubber outsole offers grippy traction, keeping us steady and confident on all surfaces. A huge bonus: the sleek, streamlined style makes these fashion-forward for daily wear.
Also available in men’s sizes at Amazon.
Potential Flaws
- The heel collar has a lot of padding, which, while comfortable, did cause some chafing over time.
- This shoe is not available in wide sizes, so it may not accommodate larger feet, blisters, or bunions.
Meet Our Testers
Both of our testers walk throughout their day for exercise and at work, as well as walking for errands or socializing on the weekends. One is looking for a stylish shoe she can wear for exercising as well as daily activities that doesn’t aggravate her bunion. Our other tester has sensitive feet and needs a solid shoe that has good arch support and blister prevention.
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The Adidas Ultraboost Light Running Shoe offers responsive cushioning and is very breathable, thanks to its primeknit upper.
PHOTO: Verywell Fit / Kelsey Chapman
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These lightweight, flexible shoes are comfortable to wear for long periods and can handle various terrains with ease.
PHOTO: Verywell Fit / Kelsey Chapman
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Lightweight and breathable
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Good stability and support
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APMA Seal of Acceptance
Key Specs
Sizes: Women’s 5-12 | Weight: 9 ounces | Drop: Not listed | Closure: Lace-up | Cushioning: Moderate | Materials: Knit upper, foam midsole, rubber outsole | Our Overall Rating: 4.6/5
Who They’re For
Best if you have flat feet and want a stable, sturdy shoe for short walks.
Why We Love Them
Vionic’s Captivate Sneaker is one of our favorite shoes for flat feet because it provides ample stability and support. During test walks, we appreciated this shoe’s podiatrist-designed orthotic insole, which offers support in all the right spots to help prevent and relieve flat foot pain. We love the shoe’s sock-fit collar, which feels very comfortable and smooth—you can even wear these shoes without socks.
While testing, we also appreciated the mesh lining, which wicks away moisture to help prevent blisters. Plus, these shoes earned the APMA Seal of Acceptance, meaning a panel of podiatrists has determined that they help promote healthy feet. Despite the ample support, we found that these shoes still feel lightweight and flexible, allowing our feet to stay comfortable all day long.
Potential Flaws
- The midsole is supportive and firm, which is perfect for casual walking. However, we found that these shoes don’t have enough cushioning for long-distance walking.
Meet Our Testers
One of our testers averages about three miles of walking a day, including walking her dog. She looks for shoes with plenty of cushy padding and wore these test shoes for a variety of activities, including outside work, long and short walks, running errands, and commuting to work. Our other tester averages 10,000 steps or more per day and wears custom orthotics for bunions and forefoot pain. Her feet are narrow and flat, and she has a history of stress fractures so really needs quality, supportive shoes.
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Key Specs
Sizes: Women’s 5-13 | Weight: Not listed | Drop: Not listed | Closure: Lace-up and slip-on | Cushioning: Moderate | Materials: Knit upper, foam midsole, rubber outsole | Our Overall Rating: 4.7/5
Who They’re For
Best for wearers why have wide feet or bunions and prefer a hands-free, slip-on shoe for light activities.
Why We Love Them
Kizik’s Athens Shoe is a popular favorite suitable for both light exercise and daily wear. With wide sizes available, it can accommodate larger feet and bunions while allowing room for toes to splay naturally. During testing, we noticed that the midsole cushioning strikes the perfect balance between plush and firm to deliver a comfy and supportive feel. Plus, the lightweight knit upper adds breathability, making these great for warm-weather wear.
If you prefer hands-free slip-on shoes, you’re in luck. This pair features Kizik’s patented heel rebound technology—a flexible rubber cage around the heel that allows you to easily slip your feet right in. We also appreciate the laces, which helped us achieve a more customized fit. Overall, we found these shoes incredibly stable, thanks to the tall heel collar and padded tongue.
Also available in men’s sizes at Kizik.
Potential Flaws
- We noticed that the arch support is moderate but may not be enough for people with flat feet.
- We appreciate the range of neutral and fun color options, but we noticed that the lighter shades tend to get dirty quickly and are difficult to clean.
Meet Our Testers
Both of our testers have wide feet and walk often throughout their day. One tester has bunions, while the other deals with mild plantar fasciitis and looks for shoes with support and a lot of cushioning.
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Lightweight, flexible design
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Good support and shock absorption
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Completely waterproof
Key Specs
Sizes: Women’s 5-11 | Weight: Not listed | Drop: Not listed | Closure: Slip-on | Cushioning: Moderate | Materials: Knit upper, rubber outsole | Our Overall Rating: 4.9/5
Who They’re For
Best for wearers who want the convenience of a slip-on shoe to sport in all weather conditions.
Why We Love Them
If you love the convenience of a slip-on sneaker, check out Vessi’s Cityscape Classic Waterproof Shoes. Thanks to the elastic ankle collar and heel tabs, we found it easy to slide our feet in and out of the shoes during testing. Despite being lightweight and flexible, they still offer cushioning and support. One of the best features, though, is that they’re waterproof, making them a great option for walking, traveling, and commuting in unpredictable weather conditions.
The shoe’s upper material is engineered with thousands of nano-sized holes, allowing sweat and heat to escape while still protecting your feet from moisture. With a glove-like fit, we found this pair comfortable from the first step, even without socks. And during test walks, we appreciated the shoe’s support, responsiveness, and shock absorption, which helped prevent foot and leg fatigue, even after a full day of wear. They even prevented arch pain for one of our testers who has high arches.
Also available in men’s sizes at Vessi.
Potential Flaws
- We found that the outsole provides exceptional traction, but it can feel overly grippy at times, especially on certain indoor floors where it tends to catch.
Meet Our Testers
One of our testers walks between 10,000 and 15,000 steps per day with her dogs and on an under-desk treadmill. She also frequently visits Disney World, so she is very interested in waterproof shoes for Florida weather. Our other tester walks anywhere from 3,000 to 10,000 steps per day between work, walk breaks, and running errands. She deals with bunions on both feet and is looking for a supportive shoe for more comfortable walking.
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![Vessi Cityscape Classic Waterproof Shoes on wood floor]()
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These comfy shoes are waterproof and breathable, allowing them to work well for everyday wear and travel.
PHOTO: Verywell Fit / Isabella Broggini
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![Feet wearing Vessi Cityscape Classic Waterproof Shoes with one lifted to reveal sole on carpet]()
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The Vessi Cityscape Shoes offer solid traction, plus they are a breeze to slip on, thanks to their large pull tabs and stretchy knit uppers.
PHOTO: Verywell Fit / Isabella Broggini
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Key Specs
Sizes: Women’s 5-11 | Weight: 8 ounces | Drop: Not listed | Closure: Lace-up | Cushioning: Moderate | Materials: Eucalyptus tree fiber upper, foam midsole, Merino wool heel lining, natural rubber outsole | Our Overall Rating: 4.6/5
Who They’re For
Best for casual walkers or those who need lightweight shoes that effortlessly fit in a suitcase, backpack, or overnight bag.
Why We Love Them
Flexible and supportive, Allbirds’ Tree Runners are our top choice for long days of exploring and sightseeing on foot. When we first put these on, we were impressed by the sleek design and generous cushioning. The upper has plenty of stretch, so it hugs the foot in all the right places. We were even able to wear them comfortably without socks. Plus, like other Allbirds shoes, these are made with sustainable, eco-friendly materials, such as eucalyptus tree fiber, Brazilian sugarcane, and Merino wool.
During test walks, we found the midsole responsive with each step. The heel counter helps to support and lock down the rear of the foot, preventing any movement in that area. And the seamless, one-piece upper is extremely comfortable and breathable, helping to ward off blisters and irritation. Whether you’re fitness walking or checking out the sights and attractions in a new city, we love these lightweight shoes that are easy to stow away.
Also available in men’s sizes at Allbirds.
Potential Flaws
- The material of these shoes feels a bit flimsy and lightweight, so they may not offer enough protection to serve as cold weather walking gear.
Meet Our Testers
Both our testers walk frequently for exercise, running errands, and general daily activities. Neither tester has any particular foot concerns but can experience fatigue and pain in the feet after a long day. Our testers are looking for comfortable, supportive shoes that don’t cause blisters, can be worn without socks, and are easy to wash.
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Comfortable and supportive
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Versatile, streamlined design
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Made with recycled materials
Key Specs
Sizes: Women’s 5-14 | Weight: 7.2 ounces | Drop: 7 millimeters | Closure: Speed laces | Cushioning: Lightweight and supportive | Materials: Recycled mesh upper, foam midsole, rubber outsole | Our Overall Rating: 4.9/5
Who They’re For
Best for wearers who want a hands-free shoe that provides enough cushioning for a variety of workouts in warm climates.
Why We Love Them
On Women’s Cloud 5 Shoes are perfect if you prefer lightweight walking shoes but still want cushioning and support. From the start of testing, we were impressed with the cloud-like comfort that lasted from the first few minutes of walking through hours of extended wear. One of our testers, who has a history of plantar fasciitis, even found that the shoe provided cushioning and support right where she needed it to prevent flare-ups.
We also like the stretchy upper, which conforms to your foot shape, providing a stable, snug fit. It’s also very breathable, helping our feet stay cool and blister-free on long walks. These aren’t available in wide widths, but they do have a spacious toe box with plenty of room for toes to splay. They feature a hands-free speed-lacing system and heel tabs, making getting them on and off easy. And they also come with traditional laces in case you prefer more adjustability.
Also available in men’s sizes at On Running.
Potential Flaws
- These shoes offered excellent comfort in warmer weather, but the mesh upper made our feet feel a bit chilly when the temperature dropped.
Meet Our Testers
Our tester takes daily walks around her neighborhood and walks regularly for errands and chasing kids. She favors shoes that are easy and quick to get on and off and appreciates a shoe that supports her high arches.
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![Person wearing ON Cloud 5 Sneakers on sidewalk]()
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The ON Cloud 5 Sneakers are easy to slip on and offer enough support and breathability to wear for long periods.
PHOTO: Verywell Fit / Ashleigh Morley
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![ON Cloud 5 Sneakers on black wood surface]()
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These lightweight shoes have unique, airy rubber outsoles that provide plenty of traction for running, walking, and more.
PHOTO: Verywell Fit / Ashleigh Morley
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Key Specs
Sizes: Women’s 5.5-12 | Weight: 8.7 ounces | Drop: 0 millimeters | Closure: Lace-up | Cushioning: Moderate | Materials: Mesh upper, nylon lining, foam midsole, rubber outsole | Our Overall Rating: 4.7/5
Who They’re For
Best for wearers who need a rugged shoe for uneven, rocky, and muddy terrain.
Why We Love Them
One of the best trail running shoes, Altra’s Lone Peak 8, also works well for hiking on all terrain. We tested the Lone Peak 7, but this version is almost identical, with just an upgrade to the ripstop mesh for the upper. The cushioning provides the perfect balance of comfort and support you need on the trail. We also like that the spacious toe box offers plenty of room for toes to relax and spread out, which is crucial for maintaining balance and feeling confident on uneven terrain.
The seamless upper is lightweight yet durable and didn’t cause any irritation or blisters during our test walks. And the shoe’s grippy outsole offers exceptional traction underfoot. Like other Altra shoes, these have a zero heel-to-toe drop, allowing for a firm connection with the ground. They’re not waterproof, but the breathable material dries quickly, so your feet won’t overheat.
Also available in men’s sizes at Altra.
Potential Flaws
- During testing, we found that the midsole of these shoes were not as bouncy or responsive as some other options.
Meet Our Testers
One of our testers has flat feet and likes a sturdy shoe for support. She walks consistently throughout the day for errands and everyday activities, as well as for exercise. Our other tester has high arches and walks daily, including long walks with her dog.
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Key Specs
Sizes: Women’s 5-13 | Weight: 8.9 ounces | Drop: 8 millimeters | Closure: Lace-up | Cushioning: Maximum | Materials: Engineered knit upper, foam and gel midsole, rubber outsole | Our Overall Rating: 4.8/5
Who They’re For
Best for wearers who want well-cushioned shoes that provide support for walking and running.
Why We Love Them
If you want a well-cushioned shoe that works for both walking and running, Asics’ GEL-Nimbus 26 Running Shoe is a versatile option. We tested the Nimbus 25, but the 26 has similar features, with the added benefit of more outsole coverage for better traction. The pair we tested features a springy midsole with extra gel padding in the forefoot and heel for maximum support. On test walks, we immediately noticed the cushioning that feels like walking on a cloud. It also helps absorb impact on pavement.
Plus, the shoe’s padded tongue and collar enhance the overall plush feel. And we appreciated the pull tabs for easy on and off. Even with the ample cushioning, this shoe still feels lightweight, nimble, and responsive—which is beneficial for both walking and running. And we were impressed with the soft, breathable knit upper that comfortably hugs the foot for good support without feeling constricting.
Also available in men’s sizes at Amazon, Asics, and Zappos.
Potential Flaws
- We love that wide sizes are available, but the color options in the wide widths are limited.
- The shoe provides good support, but it may not work for those who need extra stability in motion control, such as overpronators.
Meet Our Testers
One tester has flat, wide feet and walks around the city for daily life and running errands, as well as walking her dog and fitness classes. She prefers well-cushioned, neutral-colored shoes. Our other tester has high arches and walks at least three times a day with her dog. She always tries to wear shoes with adequate arch support.
We Also Tested
We tested 32 pairs of walking shoes but only included 13 in our final list of recommendations—a few just didn’t make the cut. These three sneakers had some noteworthy features but didn’t stack up to the competition.
- We love the sleek style and lightweight feel of lululemon’s Blissfeel 2 Shoes. However, we felt the cushioning was a bit too firm and didn’t provide enough shock absorption for long walks or extended wear.
- While we liked Vionic’s Fortune Sneaker’s plush cushioning and durability, we found it difficult to get a secure, comfortable fit. During test walks, our heels slipped out of the back of the shoe, and our toes felt cramped in the front.
- Altra’s Rivera 3 Shoes are very durable and responsive, with cushioning that feels soft but not too squishy. However, we found the arch support to be lacking, which led to foot fatigue during our longer test walks.
What to Look for When Shopping for Women’s Walking Shoes
- Fit: The shoe should feel snug and supportive but not constricting. Ankle surgeon Miguel Cunha, DPM, recommends that you try your shoes on at the end of the day to ensure a more accurate fit. This will ensure comfort no matter how long you’re on your feet, as your feet will have swollen throughout the day. Try not to get caught up on the shoe size since sizing can vary greatly across different brands or styles of shoes, says Parthasarathy.
- Support: Look for shoes that have a firm, supportive heel counter and a sturdy sole with good flexibility at the toes, says podiatric surgeon Angelo Sutera, DPM. To test the shoe’s support, try bending it or twisting it. You shouldn’t be able to fold it in half or wring it out like a dishrag.
- Cushioning: A good walking shoe should have a midsole with gel, foam, or air to cushion your stride and reduce impact when your foot hits the ground. When shopping, look for shoes with enough cushioning for shock absorption that aren’t too heavy. That being said, you should avoid minimalist shoes that don’t provide much cushioning. This is especially true if you want to relieve plantar fasciitis or heel spurs.
- Materials: Choosing shoes made of high-quality, durable materials (such as rubber for the sole) is a good investment. If you plan to walk for long periods, you can get shoes that help with sweat, too. Look for shoes with uppers made of breathable material so there’s good ventilation. Some walking shoes have antimicrobial insoles to help keep sweaty odors under control and keep one’s feet feeling fresh, Cunha notes.
- Heel-to-Toe Drop: Heel-to-toe drop measures the difference between the height of the shoe at the heel and the forefoot. In walking shoes, the drop can be anywhere from 0 to 12 millimeters and can affect your cadence, foot strike, and what part of your body takes on the load or impact of each step. Shoes with lower heel-to-toe drops place less pressure on your knees and hips, which can help prevent injury in those areas. On the other hand, those pairs with a higher heel drop are typically well-cushioned in the rearfoot, which is ideal for heel strikers.
- Comfort: A good pair of walking shoes should fit comfortably when you first try them on. Don’t assume that the shoes will stretch out or feel more comfortable after breaking them in, says Clifford Jeng, MD, a foot and ankle orthopedic surgeon in Baltimore. Shoes should be very flexible and offer plenty of room in the front of the shoe for your toes to splay out.
How We Tested the Walking Shoes for Women
To find the best walking shoes for women, we spent 736 hours testing 32 pairs of sneakers in real-world conditions. Our team of 42 testers have different fitness levels, but all walk regularly and spend a lot of time on their feet through regular exercise and daily activities. Two people tested each pair of shoes to get different perspectives based on the tester’s feet, gait, and preferences. When we test walking shoes, we assess each pair for the following key attributes.
- Fit: After trying on the shoes for the first time, we assess fit by noting if they fit as expected for the size we normally wear, or we would suggest sizing up or down. We note if the shoes are too tight or too loose anywhere. We also assess if the toe box is roomy and allows our feet to splay. Finally, we note if there is any rubbing, chafing, or sliding around.
- Cushioning: When walking, we note whether the cushioning feels plush or firm. We also evaluate whether the padding is distributed evenly or concentrated more in one area, such as the heel or arch. Finally, we take note of any additional cushioning in the tongue or collar that would affect the shoe’s overall comfort and performance.
- Quality: When we first try on the shoes, we carefully examine them for any flaws and inspect the design and quality of the materials—including the upper, midsole, laces, and outsole. Does the construction feel durable? We perform the bend and twist tests to assess the shoe’s quality and sturdiness. After many months of testing, we also evaluate how the shoes hold up, looking for any signs of wear and tear.
- Comfort: Do the shoes feel lightweight and comfortable? Or do our feet feel weighed down? We note if the materials feel soft and breathable and if any rubbing or irritation exists. Additionally, we pay attention to whether our feet feel sweaty or hot and if we feel any pressure, tightness, hot spots, or irritation in any areas.
- Responsiveness: To evaluate responsiveness, we note how effective the shoe is at propelling us to the next stride and whether it feels springy as we push off and land. Does the shoe feel like it gives energy back? Does it feel like the shoe supports quick transitions to the next stride?
- Stability: To test stability, we walk on different types of terrain, such as wood floors, carpet, sidewalks, pavement, and grass. We assess whether the shoes provide adequate shock absorption on the varying terrain. We also note whether the shoe has enough arch and ankle support and whether we feel stable and balanced.
- Value: To determine the value rating for each pair of shoes, we wait until after the testing period, when we’ve evaluated all other criteria, to look at the price. We then determine if the cost reflects the value based on the features and our experience with the shoes. We note if we would pay the regular price or wait for the shoes to go on sale. Finally, we consider if we would recommend the shoes to friends and family.
Our Experts
To guide our research, testing, and final selection of the best walking shoes for women, we interviewed five experts to get their insight on which key features we should look for in quality walking shoes. Some experts also recommended specific shoe brands and told us to avoid certain shoe elements contraindicated for walkers.
- Priya Parthasarathy, DPM, a podiatrist based in Silver Spring, Maryland
- Miguel Cunha, DPM, a foot and ankle surgeon and founder of Gotham Footcare in New York City
- Clifford Jeng, MD, foot and ankle orthopedic surgeon at Mercy Medical Center in Baltimore, Maryland
- Angelo Sutera, DPM, a board-certified podiatric surgeon in Media, Pennsylvania
- Diana Levin Valencia, DPM, a podiatrist based in New York City
Frequently Asked Questions
How long do walking shoes last?
Walking shoes will last about 350 to 500 miles or six to eight months. According to Parthasarathy, you should replace them when you can bend the shoe completely in half like a sandwich; that means the support has worn out. If you’re experiencing foot issues, you should get new ones immediately, as they could contribute to your problem.
What is the difference between walking shoes and running shoes?
Although running shoes can be used for walking, there are some differences. In general, running shoes offer more cushioning since runners strike the ground harder and need more impact protection. Running shoes also usually have a higher heel height and a more flared heel for stability.
How do I make sure I buy the right size walking shoe?
There should be at least a thumb’s width of space at the top of your shoe to give your feet extra room to swell as you walk. Parthasarathy also suggests taking out the insole and standing on it. If your foot spills over the side or is longer than the insole, then the shoe is not the right width or length for you.
Why Trust Verywell Fit
As a running coach, marathon runner, personal trainer, and fitness writer, Christine Luff, ACE-CPT, has spent years researching and recommending running and walking shoes to clients and friends. To walk in comfort and reduce injury risk, she suggests getting properly fitted for walking shoes and replacing them regularly.
Additional reporting by Jen Zeltwanger
Jen Zeltwanger, ACSM-EP, is an ACSM-certified exercise physiologist and fitness writer. Jen has written articles and tested products for a variety of fitness and wellness publications. She has lots of experience with home and outdoor fitness, including walking, running, and hiking. Jen knows what works and what to look for when shopping for fitness products and she prioritizes products that are easy to use, versatile, and well-made.
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