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After Over 736 Hours of Testing, Here Are the 15 Best Walking Shoes for Women

From popular brands like New Balance, Ryka, Nike and more

Ryka Devotion x Walking Shoe

Verywell Fit/Alexander Huang

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 running coach from our Review Board review the claims in this article for accuracy.

Best Overall

Ryka Devotion X Walking Shoe

Ryka Devotion X Walking Shoe

Dicks Sporting Goods

Pros
  • Lightweight and breathable

  • Excellent responsiveness

  • Very durable

Cons
  • Limited color options

An impressive shoe that’s lightweight, durable, and supportive, Ryka's Devotion X Walking Shoe was a clear choice for our top pick. During our testing, we found that the shoe’s comfortable fit and soft cushioning makes it an ideal option for fitness walkers or women who are on their feet for most of the day.

One feature that really stood out during test walks is the shoe’s responsiveness. It feels springy and provides excellent energy return, allowing for smooth strides and easy transitions. We also noticed that the shoes offer good support in the arch area, without feeling overly stiff.

Additionally, we like the spacious toe box that allows for enough room for toes to splay. And the Devotion X also comes in wide sizes, if you need even more room. Despite the wide forefoot, the rear of the shoe offers a snug fit, and we didn’t notice any unwanted slipping. 

The soft mesh upper feels smooth and allows for good ventilation, so we didn’t have any issues with overheated or sweaty feet. A great value for the price, the Devotion X is available in a few stylish colors, although we’d love to see a wider variety of options.

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

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, MD, says.

Best Value

Skechers Go Walk Flex Alani

Skechers Go Walk Flex Alani Walking Shoes

Skechers

Pros
  • Lightweight and flexible

  • Pillow-like comfort

  • Machine-washable

Cons
  • Could be more breathable

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 great arch support right away. We were surprised by how lightweight these shoes feel, despite the thick padding. And we love that the shoe’s stretchy upper hugs the food to provide a secure fit, while still allowing for plenty of flexibility.

The elastic bungee laces make it easy to slip your feet right into these shoes—we appreciate the convenience of getting them on and off, hands-free. Even better, the combination of minimal seams, smooth fabric, and snug fit resulted in no blisters or irritated areas throughout testing. But we did notice that the snug fit made our feet feel overly warm and somewhat sweaty—leaving us wishing that the material was more breathable. 

While this pair isn’t versatile for running or cross-training activities, we think they’re a great value and solid choice for fitness walking, all-day wear, or simple strength workouts. Plus, the shoes are machine-washable, meaning easy cleaning when it’s time for a refresh. 

Key Specs: 
Sizes:
Women’s 5-11 | Weight: 7 ounces | Drop: Not listed | Closure: Bungee laces | Cushioning: Moderate | Materials: Engineered mesh upper, foam cushioning, rubber outsole

Best New Balance

New Balance Fresh Foam 1080 V12

New Balance Fresh Foam 1080 V12 Running Shoe

New Balance

Pros
  • Well-cushioned

  • Lightweight

  • Streamlined and low-profile

Cons
  • Not for very cold weather

New Balance’s 1080v12 Fresh Foam shoes have just the right amount of support and cushioning to make walking comfortable—no matter how many miles you have planned. We like that the full-length foam midsole packs in a lot of cushioning without feeling heavy or bulky. Right away, we noticed the shoe’s cloud-like comfort, which held up for long test walks. And, the outsole’s curved shape makes for very smooth transitions and good energy transfer.

Meanwhile, the wide toe box offers plenty of room for toes to spread out or even swell in warm weather. And for women who need even more space, it comes in wide and extra-wide sizes. We also appreciated how the padded tongue adds to the shoe’s overall comfort, without causing any irritation or blisters.

The flexible, mesh upper and padded collar hug the foot, without any uncomfortable rubbing, overheating, or excess sweating. But because it’s so lightweight, the shoe doesn’t offer much protection from the elements, so it’s not the best option for walking in cold weather. 

Unlike other models that offer limited colors in wide widths, the 1080v12 comes in a variety of neutral and fun options.

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

Best for Plantar Fasciitis

Orthofeet Kita Hands-free Sneakers

Orthofeet Kita Hands-Free Women's Athletic Sneakers

Orthofeet

Pros
  • Supportive

  • Comes in three different widths

  • Good stability and traction

Cons
  • Limited color options

  • Could be more breathable

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 Shoe. They feature Orthofeet’s patented hands-free, slip-on system, which allows you to put on or take off your shoes without bending down. 

When we first tried these shoes on, we were impressed with the customizable arch support. They come with an orthotic insole, fitting spacers, and an arch booster insert, so that you can find a level of support that’s perfect for you—which is crucial for keeping plantar fasciitis at bay.

What’s more, the Kita’s comfy cushioning provides plenty of shock absorption and good responsiveness, without feeling too thick or bulky. We also like the sturdy rubber outsole, which delivered good traction and stability when we tested the shoes on a variety of surfaces.

The shoe’s upper feels soft, smooth, and flexible, with no irritating seams to cause irritation or blisters. However, our feet did feel quite warm during some walks, so we wish the material was a bit more breathable. 

The Kita comes in a wide range of women's sizes and widths, so it can fit a variety of foot sizes and shapes. But we would love to see it in more color options.

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

Pros
  • Ample arch support and cushioning

  • Versatile for walking and running

  • Rocker shape propels stride forward

Cons
  • Thick, clunky sole

  • Collar is a bit stiff

Nike is well-known for its high-quality, innovative running shoes, but the Motiva is aimed at avid fitness walkers or those who like to mix up their runs with walking intervals. It’s specifically designed with women’s feet and biomechanics in mind—with a wide forefoot and narrow heel, as well as ample cushioning and arch support.

During testing, we immediately noticed the shoe’s exaggerated rocker outsole, which propelled our stride forward. 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 that produces a soft underfoot feel, as well as springy responsiveness.  

We were also impressed with the soft, breathable upper and roomy toe box. Aside from the collar, which feels a little stiff, the shoe’s fit is very comfortable. We also found that it provides excellent arch support and stability, despite the rocker shape. With a textured outsole, it also delivers dependable traction for walking or running on a variety of surfaces.

One thing to note is that the thick, clunky-looking sole is not for everyone. But if you don’t mind a bulky style and want a supportive, responsive shoe for walking, running, and other activities, you should definitely consider this pair.

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

Best Cushioned

Adidas Ultraboost Light Running Shoe

Adidas Ultraboost Light Women's Running Shoe

Amazon

Pros
  • Lightweight

  • Excellent responsiveness

  • Secure and comfortable fit

Cons
  • More expensive than other options

  • No wide sizes

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 but still responsive, helping to put some spring in our step as we walked for miles. The cushioning also offers reliable shock absorption, keeping feet and joints protected—whether walking or running.

The shoe’s upper material feels super lightweight and extremely breathable, while providing plenty of stretch for movement. A roomy toe box offers plenty of space for toes to wiggle, while the heel cups the rear foot for a secure fit. However, this shoe is not available in wide sizes for those with concerns about bunions, blisters, or swollen feet.

The wide, rubber outsole delivers exceptional stability and traction, making us feel steady and confident on all types of surfaces. We also like the shoe’s sleek style that makes it perfect for extended and daily wear. It is more expensive than other options on our list, but we think it’s worth the investment for a high-quality, attractive shoe that’s versatile for walking, running, and casual wear. 

Key Specs: 
Sizes:
Women’s 5-12 | Weight: 9.2 ounces | Drop: 10 millimeters | Closure: Lace-up | Cushioning: Maximum | Materials: Primeknit upper, foam midsole, rubber outsole

Best for Flat Feet

Vionic Captivate Sneaker

Vionic Captivate Sneaker

Vionic

Pros
  • Lightweight and flexible

  • Good stability and support

  •  APMA Seal of Acceptance

Cons
  • Not as well-cushioned as other options

Having flat feet can limit your options for walking shoes, but 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 that offers support in all the right spots to help prevent and relieve flat feet pain.

We love the shoe’s sock-fit collar, which feels very comfortable and smooth—you can even wear these shoes without socks. We also appreciated the mesh lining that wicks away moisture, to help with blister prevention. 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, the shoes still feel lightweight and flexible, allowing our feet to stay comfortable all day long. The midsole is supportive and firm, which is perfect for casual walking, but you might want a sneaker with more cushioning for long distances.

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

Pros
  • Lightweight and breathable upper

  • Good traction

  • Easy to get on and off

Cons
  • Not enough arch support for some

  • Not easy to clean

Kizik’s Athens shoe is a popular favorite that’s suitable for both exercise and casual wear. With wide sizes available, it’s easy to get a custom-like fit that allows plenty of room for your toes to spread—making it our top pick for wide feet.

When testing this pair, we found that the cushioning feels plush and supportive—the perfect balance between squishy and firm. We also noticed that the arch support is adequate, but may not be enough for women with flat feet. If you like an easy on-and-off shoe, you’re in luck because this pair features Kizik’s patented heel rebound technology, which allows you to easily slip your feet right into them, hands-free. We like that they also have laces to adjust the fit, if needed.

While these shoes aren't designed for running, we think they’re ideal for fitness walking or all-day casual wear. The lightweight design and breathable material also make them ideal walking shoes for travel, especially in hot weather. Even after wearing them for several long days, we didn’t notice any pain, irritation, or blisters. 

We like the variety of neutral and fun color options, although we found that the light shades get dirty quickly and aren’t easy to clean.

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

Best Slip-On

Vessi Cityscape Shoes

Vessi Cityscape Classic Waterproof Shoes

Vessi

Pros
  • Lightweight, sleek design

  • Good support and shock absorption

  • Waterproof

Cons
  • Narrow fit

  • Grippy outsole catches on some surfaces

If you love the convenience of a slip-on sneaker, check out this versatile and stylish pair from Vessi. The Cityscape Classic feels lightweight and flexible, but still offers plenty of cushioning and support. It’s also waterproof, making it a great option for walking, traveling, and commuting in unpredictable weather conditions. During testing, we found it easy to slide our feet in and out of the shoes, thanks to the elastic ankle collar and heel tabs.

The shoe’s upper material is engineered with thousands of nano-sized holes that allow sweat and heat to escape, while still keeping your feet protected from moisture. And with a glove-like fit, we found that this pair felt comfy from the first step, with no break-in period needed. However, if you have wide feet, you may need to size up, since they’re a bit narrow in the toe box. 

On test walks, we appreciated the shoe’s support, responsiveness, and shock absorption, which helped prevent foot and leg fatigue, even after a full day or wear.  We found that the outsole offers exceptional traction, but almost feels too grippy at times, as it does catch on certain indoor floors. 

Still, Vessi’s Cityscape Classic Shoe is a great slip-on that’s perfect for travel, work, or casual wear.

Key Specs: 
Sizes:
Women’s 5-11 | Weight: Not listed | Drop: Not listed | Closure: Slip-on | Cushioning: Moderate | Materials: Knit upper, rubber outsole

Best for Travel

Allbirds Tree Runners

Allbirds Tree Runners

Allbirds

Pros
  • Flexible and responsive

  • Breathable

  • Made with eco-friendly materials

Cons
  • Upper is not very protective

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 and is supportive in just the right places. 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 to be responsive and flexible 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. However, the material does feel a bit flimsy and lightweight, so it may not offer enough protection to serve as cold weather walking gear.

Overall, the Tree Runner is a comfy option whether you’re fitness walking or checking out the sights and attractions in a new city. And with a lightweight, streamlined design, they’re easy to stash and carry in your suitcase.

Key Specs: 
Sizes:
Women’s 5-11 | Weight: 8 ounces | Drop: Not listed | Closure: Lace-up | Cushioning: Moderate | Materials: Eucalyptus tree fiber upper, SweetFoam EVA midsole, merino wool heel lining, natural rubber outsole

Best Lightweight

ON Cloud 5 Sneakers

ON Cloud 5 Sneakers

Amazon

Pros
  • Comfortable and supportive

  • Versatile, streamlined design

  • Made with recycled materials

Cons
  • Doesn’t come in wide widths

On Women’s Cloud 5 Shoes are perfect for those who want a lightweight walking shoe that doesn’t skimp on cushioning and support. We were impressed with the pair's streamlined design and flexible fit, as well as its plush feel. The cloud-like comfort 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 provides cushioning and support right where she needed it. 

We also like that the upper is stretchy and conforms to the shape of the foot, providing a snug fit without feeling constricting. Made with recycled materials, the shoes are also extremely breathable, which helps to keep feet cool and blister-free during long walks. 

The Cloud 5 sneakers aren’t available in wide widths, but they do have a spacious toe box, with plenty of room for toes to splay. They also feature a hands-free, speed-lacing system and heel tabs, making it easy to get them on and off. These versatile shoes are a solid choice for walking, running, and other activities, as well as all-day casual wear.

Key Specs: 
Sizes:
Women’s 5-11 | Weight: 7.2 ounces | Drop: 7 millimeters | Closure: Speed laces | Cushioning: Lightweight and supportive | Materials: Recycled mesh upper, foam midsole, rubber outsole

Best for Trail Walking

Altra Women's Lone Peak 7 Trail Running Shoe

Altra Women's Lone Peak 7 Trail Running Shoe

Amazon

Pros
  • Good traction

  • Suitable for trail running, walking, or hiking

  • Durable

Cons
  • Not waterproof

One of the best trail running shoes, Altra’s Lone Peak 7 also works well for walking and hiking on all types of terrain. When testing this pair, we found that the cushioning provides the perfect balance of comfort and responsiveness. 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 trails. And if you need even more space, the shoe comes in wide sizes, which isn’t often the case with trail shoes.

The seamless upper is lightweight yet durable, and didn’t cause any irritation or blisters during our test walks. One of our testers, with flat feet, found that this pair  delivered arch support right where she needed it. 

Plus, the shoe’s grippy outsole offers exceptional traction underfoot. And like other Altra shoes, these have a zero heel-to-toe drop, which allows for good connection with the ground. They’re not waterproof, but the shoe’s breathable material dries quickly, so your feet won’t overheat. 

A great all-around trail shoe, the Lone Peak 7 will help keep you steady and comfortable on your next adventure, no matter what pace you’re going.

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

Best for Walking All Day

KEEN WK400 Walking Shoes

KEEN WK400 Walking Shoes

REI

Pros
  • Excellent arch support

  • Secure, comfy fit

  • Wide, grippy outsole

Cons
  • Curved bottom requires adjustment period

  • May be too firm for some

If you spend a lot of your day walking or standing on your feet, you need to choose a shoe wisely—and we recommend Keen’s WK400 Walking Shoe. Designed specifically for walking, the shoe features a high-energy midsole that delivers superior impact protection. 

During testing, we were impressed with the shoe’s arch support, which feels comfy and supportive. We also like the slightly rounded bottom, which causes a gentle rocking motion to propel you forward. The rocking sensation feels quite noticeable at first, but, compared to traditional flat-bottomed sneakers, this pair feels easier and more enjoyable to walk in.

The stretchy mesh upper contours to the shape of the foot, allowing for a secure, comfy fit. And we appreciated the narrow heel that helps to support and lockdown the rear of the foot. Plus, the wide, rubber outsole is equipped with multi-directional lugs, offering exceptional tracking on all terrains. 

If you’re motivated to increase your step count or want an all-day walking shoe, we definitely recommend adding this pair to your shoe rotation.

Key Specs: 
Sizes:
Women’s 6-12 | Weight: 13 ounces | Drop: 10 millimeters | Closure: Lace-up | Cushioning: Moderate | Materials: Mesh upper, foam midsole, rubber outsole

Best for Walking and Running

Asics Gel-Nimbus 25

Asics Women's Gel-Nimbus 25

Amazon

Pros
  • Very comfortable fit

  • Breathable, flexible upper

  • Responsive cushioning

Cons
  • Limited colors in wide sizes

  • Not enough stability for overpronators

If you want a well-cushioned shoe that works for both walking and running, Asics GEL-Nimbus 25 is a durable, versatile option. It features a springy, foam midsole, and extra gel padding in the forefoot and heel. During test walks, we noticed that the cushioning offers cloud-like comfort and helps to absorb the impact from the pavement or sidewalk. 

Plus, the shoe’s padded tongue and collar enhances the overall plush feel. Even with the ample cushioning, the Nimbus 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. 

For those who have issues with bunions or foot swelling, you’re in luck, because this pair comes in extended widths—although the color options are somewhat limited in wide sizes. You should also note that while Nimbus offers good traction and ankle support, it may not work for those who need extra stability or motion control (like overpronators). 

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 cushioning, rubber outsole

Most Comfortable

Kizik Roamer

Kizik Women's Roamer Hands-Free Shoe

Kizik

Pros
  • Responsive cushioning

  • Easy on and off

  • Sleek design

Cons
  • Traction could be better

If you need a comfortable walking shoe for all-day wear, we recommend Kizik’s Roamer shoe—it delivers the right amount of comfort, arch support, and responsiveness. Although they look like a regular pair of lace-up sneakers, the shoes feature Kizik’s easy step-in design that allows you to get them on and off, hands-free. As you step into them and your foot presses down, the back of the shoe compresses and then snaps up around your heel.

During testing, we were impressed with the pair’s cloud-like cushioning. It feels soft without being too squishy, while still providing good responsiveness. We also loved the shoe’s fit, which is snug and supportive, thanks to the 4-way stretch knit fabric. Despite the ample cushioning, the material is breathable, so our feet didn’t overheat, even when walking in hot weather. Plus, the toe box is spacious, with plenty of room for toes to splay out.

We noticed that the outsole, while made of durable rubber, is smoother and not as grippy than some of the other shoes we tested. While the Roamer is suitable for daily walks and errands, it wouldn’t be the best choice for walking on trails or in wet conditions. 

We recommend this pick for anyone who wants a comfy, stylish sneaker for all-day wear and likes the ease and convenience of slip-on shoes. 

Key Specs: 
Sizes:
Women’s 5-12 | Weight: Not listed | Drop: Not listed | Closure: Lace-up | Cushioning: Soft but responsive | Materials: Knit upper, foam midsole, rubber outsole

We Also Tested

We tested 32 pairs of walking shoes but only included 15 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 the plush cushioning and durability of Vionic’s Fortune Sneaker, we found that it was 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 of the shoe. 
  • 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.

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 by walking in each pair on different surfaces. Rather than testing the shoes in The Verywell Testing Lab, we wanted to see how the shoes performed in real-world conditions. Our team of 42 testers have different fitness levels, but they 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: We assess whether the shoe feels snug around the heel and midfoot, but still allows enough room in the forefoot to wiggle and splay our toes. We use these assessments to rate the shoe’s fit and determine whether it runs small, big, or true to size.
  • 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. We also evaluate how the shoes hold up after many months of testing, looking for any signs of wear and tear.
  • Comfort: Do the shoes feel lightweight and comfortable? Or do our feet feel weighed down? We also note if the materials feel soft and breathable and if there is any rubbing or irritation. 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: We evaluate how effective the shoe is at propelling us to the next stride and whether it feels springy as we push off and landed.
  • Stability: We make sure to walk on different types of terrain—such as wood floors, carpet, sidewalks, pavement, and grass—to assess how stable the shoes are. We also note whether the shoe has enough arch and ankle support, as well as impact protection.
  • Value: Based on our testing, we assess whether we think the shoes are worth their cost and if we’d be willing to pay the full price for the pair.

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 of our experts also recommended specific shoe brands and told us to steer clear of certain shoe elements that are contraindicated for walkers.

  • Priya Parthasarathy, DPM, a podiatrist based in Silver Spring, MD and American Podiatric Medical Association spokesperson
  • Diana Levin Valencia, DPM, a podiatrist based in New York, NY
  • 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, MD
  • Angelo Sutera, DPM, a board-certified podiatric surgeon in Media, PA

What to Look for in Women’s Walking Shoes

  • Fit: The shoe should feel snug and supportive, but not constricting. When buying shoes, you should try them on at the end of the day to ensure a more accurate fit, Dr. Cunha recommends. Finding the right fit at the end of the day 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 size of the shoe, since sizing can vary greatly across different brands or styles of shoes, according to Dr. Parthasarathy.
  • Support: Look for shoes that have a firm, supportive heel counter and a sturdy sole with good flexibility at the toes, says Dr. Sutera. 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 that have enough cushioning for shock absorption but aren’t too heavy. That being said, you should avoid minimalist shoes that don’t provide much cushioning.
  • Materials: It is a good investment to choose shoes made of high-quality, durable materials, such as rubber for the sole. If you plan to walk for long periods of time, 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, Dr. Cunha notes.
  • Heel-to-Toe Drop: Heel-to-toe drop measures the difference between the height of the shoe at the heel and at 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, Dr. Jeng says. They should be very flexible and offer plenty of room in the front of the shoe for your toes to splay out.

Frequently Asked Questions

  • How long do walking shoes last?

    Walking shoes will last for about 350 to 500 miles, or six to eight months. You should replace them when you can bend the shoe completely in half like a sandwich, that means the support has worn out, according to Dr. Parthasarathy. 

    If you’re experiencing any foot issues, you should get new ones immediately, as they could be contributing 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, as they strike the ground with different parts of the feet than walkers do. Running shoes also have more of a flared heel for stability.

  • How do I make sure I buy the right size walking shoe?

    Go to a shoe store and get fitted by a professional. Make sure you walk around to ensure the shoe is flexible enough for your walking style. 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.

    Dr. Parthasarathy also suggests taking out the insole of the shoe and standing on it. If your foot spills over the side or is longer than the insole, then it’s not the right width or length for you.

  • How do you clean walking shoes?

    You can clean your shoes with a mixture of cold water and mild detergent. Use a soft scrub brush to clean the shoes and wipe them off with a dry towel. Some walking shoes can be put in the washing machine on cold, but you should check the manufacturer’s recommendations. Do not place them in the dryer. Let them air dry instead.

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.

5 Sources
Verywell Fit uses only high-quality sources, including peer-reviewed studies, to support the facts within our articles. Read our editorial process to learn more about how we fact-check and keep our content accurate, reliable, and trustworthy.
  1. Nagano H, Begg RK. Shoe-insole technology for injury prevention in walking. Sensors (Basel). 2018;18(5):1468. doi:10.3390/s18051468

  2. Zhang M, Zhou X, Zhang L, Liu H, Yu B. The effect of heel-to-toe drop of running shoes on patellofemoral joint stress during running. Gait Posture. 2022 Mar;93:230-234. doi:10.1016/j.gaitpost.2022.02.008

  3. Perl DP, Daoud AI, Lieberman DE. Effects of footwear and strike type on running economy. Med Sci Sports Exerc. 2012 Jul;44(7):1335-43. doi:10.1249/MSS.0b013e318247989e

  4. American Academy of Podiatric Sports Medicine. How do I know when it is time to replace my athletic shoes?

  5. American College of Sports Medicine. Selecting Running Shoes.