Top Walking Shoes for Women

Selecting the right pair of walking shoes is essential for ensuring comfort and support during daily activities. Through extensive testing and consultation with podiatrists and foot specialists, we identified the best walking shoes for women. These shoes have been rigorously assessed for durability, cushioning, stability, and overall comfort to meet the diverse needs of individuals. With insights from experts and thorough testing, our recommendations provide guidance on choosing the most suitable walking shoes to enhance your daily walking experience, whether it’s running errands, walking the dog, or simply going about your day.

Best Walking Shoes for Women:

1. Brooks Ghost 15:

Brooks Ghost 15 shoes offer comfort, support, and sustainability, but potential buyers should be aware of the considerations regarding wet surface traction, drop height, and foot strike characteristics.

Pros:

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• Durable Construction: The durable construction ensures that the shoes can withstand regular wear and tear, providing longevity and value for money.
• Four Widths: Offering the shoes in four different widths caters to a variety of foot shapes and sizes, enhancing comfort and fit for a broader range of users.
• Supportive Arch: A supportive arch helps maintain proper foot alignment and reduces discomfort, particularly during extended periods of walking or activity.
• Breathable Mesh Upper: The perforated mesh upper allows for air circulation, keeping the feet cool and comfortable, especially during hot weather or long walks.
• Sustainability: With 57 percent of the materials being recycled and certified as a carbon-neutral product, the Ghost 15s demonstrate a commitment to sustainability and environmental responsibility.

Cons:

• Slippery on Wet Surfaces: The shoes being slippery on wet surfaces could pose a safety concern, increasing the risk of slips and falls, especially in rainy or wet conditions.
• High Drop: The 12mm drop may not be suitable for everyone, particularly those with existing knee or hip issues, as it can put additional strain on these areas. However, it could benefit individuals looking to minimize lower leg strain.
• Neutral Shoe: The Ghost 15s are neutral shoes, meaning they don’t offer correction or support for overpronation or supination. This might not be ideal for individuals who require stability features in their footwear.

2. New Balance Women’s Fresh Foam X 1080 V13 Shoe:

New Balance Fresh Foam X 1080 V13 shoes offer excellent cushioning, a moderate drop, durability, and lightweight design, making them suitable for individuals with plantar fasciitis. However, potential buyers should consider the slippery soles and bulky tongue as potential drawbacks, especially if they plan to use the shoes in wet conditions or for running.

Pros:

• Well-Cushioned: The Fresh Foam X 1080 V13 shoes offer excellent cushioning, which is crucial for individuals with plantar fasciitis to mitigate pain and provide comfort during walking.
• 6mm Drop: With a 6mm drop, these shoes don’t significantly elevate the wearer’s heel, which can be beneficial for people with plantar fasciitis as it helps reduce strain on the heel and arch.
• Durable Outsole: A durable outsole ensures longevity and provides stability and support during walking, which is essential for individuals with plantar fasciitis.
• Lightweight: Weighing only 7.3 ounces, these shoes are lightweight, making them comfortable and easy to wear for extended periods, which is ideal for individuals with plantar fasciitis who may need to wear them all day.

Cons:

• Slippery Soles: The soles of these shoes can be slippery on wet surfaces, which may pose a safety risk, especially for individuals with plantar fasciitis who require stable footing to prevent further injury.
• Bulky Tongue: The bulky tongue of the shoe may feel uncomfortable, particularly for individuals who also want to use these shoes for running. It could potentially cause discomfort or irritation during activity. 

3. Brooks Addiction Walker 2:

Brooks Addiction Walker 2 shoes offer excellent support, stability, and slip resistance, making them a suitable choice for older adults who prioritize comfort and foot health. However, potential buyers should consider the leather upper and weight as potential drawbacks, depending on their individual preferences and needs.

Pros:

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• Four Widths: Offering the shoes in four different widths ensures a better fit for a wider range of foot shapes and sizes, enhancing comfort and reducing the likelihood of discomfort or pain.
• Slip-Resistant: The nonslip bottom provides stability and reduces the risk of falls, which is crucial for older adults who may be more prone to injuries from slips or trips.
• Maximally Supportive: The Brooks Addiction Walker 2 is designed to offer maximum support, making it an excellent choice for individuals who require stability and support, particularly those who overpronate or supinate.
• Well-Cushioned: These shoes provide ample cushioning, offering comfort and shock absorption without feeling overly soft or spongy, which is important for protecting joints and reducing impact during walking.

Cons:

• Leather Upper: The leather upper may not be as breathable as other materials, potentially leading to discomfort for individuals who live in hot climates or tend to sweat excessively during physical activity.
• Heavy: At 12.9 ounces, these shoes are relatively heavy, which may not be ideal for individuals looking for a lightweight option, especially for long walks or extended wear periods.

4. Skechers Go Walk Arch Fit:

Skechers Go Walk Arch Fit shoes offer affordability, excellent arch support, and lightweight design, making them a suitable choice for slip-on walking shoes. However, potential buyers should consider the durability issues and sizing discrepancies when making their purchase decision.

Pros:

• Reasonably Priced: The Skechers Go Walk Arch Fit shoes are reasonably priced, making them an affordable option for those looking for comfortable walking shoes without breaking the bank.
• Excellent Arch Support: Designed in collaboration with a podiatrist, these shoes feature excellent arch support, which is crucial for individuals with arch-related foot issues or those who require additional support during walking.
• Lightweight: Being lightweight, these shoes offer enhanced comfort and ease of movement, making them suitable for extended periods of wear and various walking activities.

Cons:

• Not the Most Durable: Some reviewers have noted concerns about the overall durability of the outsole, suggesting that these shoes may not hold up well to extensive use on trails or abrasive surfaces.
• Runs Large: The shoes tend to run large, so it’s recommended to go down a half size when purchasing to ensure a proper fit.

5. MBT Women’s Sport 4 Active Fitness Walking Shoe:

MBT Sport 4 walking shoes offer features such as a rocker bottom, breathable upper, and shock-absorbing foam midsole, making them a potentially beneficial choice for individuals with lower back pain. However, potential buyers should consider factors such as price, width, and color options before making a purchase decision.

Pros:

• Rocker Bottom: The MBT Sport 4 features a rocker bottom design, which has been shown to help reduce chronic low back pain according to a study published in Clinical Rehabilitation. This feature can provide a smoother walking motion and reduce strain on the lower back.
• Breathable Upper: The mesh upper provides breathability, helping to keep your feet cool and comfortable during walks, which is important for overall foot health.
• Foam Midsole for Shock Absorption: The foam midsole offers excellent shock absorption, reducing the impact on your feet and lower back with each step, which can help alleviate discomfort and prevent further aggravation of back pain.

Cons:

• Pricey: These shoes are on the pricey side, which may be a deterrent for some individuals, especially if they are on a budget.
• Runs Wide: Reviewers have noted that the MBT Sport 4 tends to run wide, which may not be suitable for those with narrow feet or who prefer a snugger fit.
• Limited Color Options and Widths: The MBT Sport 4 is only available in two colors, and it comes in a single width option, which may limit choices for individuals looking for specific colors or widths.

6. Naot Krypton:

Naot Krypton walking shoes offer features such as easy customization for orthotics, lightweight design, and shock-absorbing footbed, making them a potentially suitable choice for individuals with flat feet. However, potential buyers should consider factors such as price, width availability, and slip resistance before making a purchase decision.

Pros:

• Easily Accommodates Custom Orthotics: The Naot Krypton shoes are designed to easily accommodate custom orthotics, allowing individuals with flat feet to add additional arch support as needed for comfort and stability.
• Lightweight: Being lightweight, these shoes offer enhanced comfort and ease of movement, reducing fatigue during extended periods of wear and walking.
• Shock-Absorbing Cork/Latex Footbed: The cork and latex footbed provide excellent shock absorption, reducing the impact on the feet and joints with each step, which is beneficial for individuals with flat feet who may experience discomfort from repetitive impacts.

Cons:

• Pricey: These shoes are on the pricey side, which may be a deterrent for some individuals, especially if they are on a budget.
• Wide Width Not Available: The Naot Krypton is only available in a single, regular width, which may not accommodate individuals with wider feet as comfortably.
• Not Slip-Resistant: These shoes are not slip-resistant, which may pose a safety risk when walking on wet or slippery surfaces.

7. Hoka Bondi 8:

Hoka Bondi 8 offers wide forefoot room, plush cushioning, and a breathable upper, making it a comfortable option for individuals with wide feet. However, potential buyers should be aware of its neutral design and the potential for quicker wear of the exposed foam.

Pros:

• Wide Forefoot: The Hoka Bondi 8 offers a wide forefoot, providing ample room for toes to splay, which is beneficial for individuals with wide feet or those who prefer a roomier toe box.
• Plush Cushioning: These shoes feature plush cushioning, offering a comfortable and soft ride, which is ideal for individuals seeking maximum comfort and impact absorption during walking.
• Breathable Mesh Upper: The breathable mesh upper allows for air circulation, keeping the feet cool and comfortable, particularly during warmer weather or prolonged walks.

Cons:

• Not a Stability Shoe: The Hoka Bondi 8 is not designed as a stability shoe, meaning it does not offer corrective features for foot pronation or supination. It’s best suited for individuals who do not require additional stability support in their footwear.
• Exposed Foam May Wear Quickly: The exposed foam construction, while contributing to the plush cushioning, may wear out more quickly, especially if worn on rough or rocky terrain. This could affect the durability of the shoes over time.

8. Nike Motiva:

Nike Motiva shoes offer supportive cushioning, durability, and a reasonable price point, making them a suitable choice for individuals with high arches. However, potential buyers should consider the lack of specific stability features and breathability when making a purchase decision.

Pros:

• Supportive: The Nike Motiva shoes offer excellent support, particularly for individuals with high arches, providing stability and reducing the risk of overpronation.
• Plush Cushioning: These shoes feature plush cushioning throughout, providing comfort and shock absorption, which is beneficial for individuals seeking a comfortable walking experience.
• Durable Outsole: The durable rubber outsole ensures longevity and provides traction, enhancing stability and grip during walks on various surfaces.
• Reasonable Price: The Nike Motiva shoes are reasonably priced, offering good value for money compared to other supportive walking shoes on the market.

Cons:

• Not a Stability Shoe: While the Nike Motiva provides support, it is not specifically designed as a stability shoe, which may not be ideal for individuals who require additional corrective features for foot pronation or supination.
• Could Be More Breathable: These shoes may not be very breathable, as the upper is not made with perforated mesh, which could lead to discomfort for individuals whose feet tend to sweat a lot or in warmer weather conditions.

9. Adidas Ultraboost 23:

Adidas Ultraboost 23 offers well-cushioned comfort, a sustainable design, and a true-to-size fit, making them a suitable choice for individuals seeking a plush walking experience. However, potential buyers should be aware of their limitations on rough terrain and consider the price point before making a purchase decision.

Pros:

• Well-Cushioned: The Adidas Ultraboost 23 offers excellent cushioning, particularly in the rearfoot, providing a plush and springy ride, which is ideal for individuals seeking comfort during walks.
• Padded Heel Collar: The padded heel collar enhances comfort and provides additional support around the ankle, reducing the risk of irritation or discomfort during wear.
• Partially Recycled Upper: The upper of the Ultraboost 23 is partially made from recycled polyester and plastic, demonstrating Adidas’s commitment to sustainability and reducing environmental impact.

Cons:

• Not for Rocky Terrain or Trails: These shoes are not suitable for rocky terrain or trails, as the foam-based exposed cushioning may be susceptible to damage from sharp rocks or sticks, potentially reducing the durability of the shoes over time.
• Pricey: The Adidas Ultraboost 23 shoes are on the pricey side, which may be a deterrent for some individuals, especially if they are on a budget.

Choosing the Perfect Walking Shoes:

• Roomy Toe Box: Opt for shoes with a spacious toe box to accommodate any swelling that may occur during walks. A wide or roomy toe box allows your toes to comfortably splay, reducing the risk of discomfort, blisters, or issues with bunions.
• Arch Support: Look for shoes with adequate arch support tailored to your foot’s arch type, whether it’s flat or high. Some shoes come with built-in supportive insoles, while others offer removable inserts, allowing you to customize the level of support to suit your needs.
• Heel Drop: Consider the heel drop, which refers to the height difference between the heel and forefoot of the shoe. A slightly elevated heel, about an inch higher than the front of the foot, can provide stability and support, particularly for individuals with specific gait patterns or foot conditions.
• Cushioning: Choose the level of cushioning that best suits your preferences and comfort needs. Some walkers prefer minimal cushioning for a closer-to-the-ground feel, while others prefer plush cushioning for a softer, more comfortable experience. There’s no right or wrong answer here—select what feels most comfortable for you.

By prioritizing these key features—roomy toe box, arch support, heel drop, and cushioning—you can find walking shoes that provide the comfort, support, and performance you need for enjoyable and pain-free walks.

When selecting the best walking shoe, consider factors such as foot width, cushioning preferences, and arch type to narrow down options effectively. Prioritize a good fit, ensuring shoes allow your toes to splay comfortably without causing rubbing, along with stellar cushioning and ample arch support. If uncertain, visiting a specialty running store for a foot scan can provide valuable insights into your foot movement and strike patterns, aiding in selecting the appropriate support level. By paying attention to these considerations and seeking expert guidance, you can find the ideal walking shoes tailored to your specific needs and preferences.