As a fitness professional and regular walker and runner, a quality pair of walking shoes is critical for my regular exercise routine. I’ve worn many pairs of walking shoes, and not all are created equal. From treadmill walks to trail hikes, I’ve found different styles of shoes work for different needs. All-day comfort and a lightweight feel are features I look for. “Wearing the right shoes is key to staying comfortable and injury-free. The best walking shoes can help prevent injuries and decrease foot fatigue (especially after long walks),” says Priya Parthasarathy, DPM, a podiatrist in Silver Spring, Maryland.
To find the best women’s walking shoes, we first spoke with experts to learn more about the key features to look for when shopping. 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 one month testing 100+ walking shoes on all types of terrain. When testing walking shoes for women, we evaluate each one for fit, cushioning, comfort, responsiveness, stability, and value.
Credit: Ryka
Pros
Breathable
Excellent responsiveness
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 standing all 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 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 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 more 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 errands 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.
Credit: Skechers
Pros
Lightweight and flexible
Pillow-like comfort
Machine-washable
Key Specs
Sizes: Women’s 5-13 | Weight: 7 ounces | Drop: 9 millimeters | 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 were 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.
Skechers Go Walk Flex Alani Walking Shoes have a foam midsole and rubber outsole for flexible wear.
Credit: Verywell FitSkechers Go Walk Flex Alani Walking Shoes offer plush, pillow-like comfort with solid arch support.
Credit: Verywell Fit
Credit: On
Pros
Comfortable and supportive
Versatile, streamlined design
Made with recycled materials
Key Specs
Sizes: Women’s 5-14 | Weight: 7.2 ounces | Drop: 7 millimeters | Closure: Speed laces | Cushioning: Moderate | 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 6 Shoes are perfect if you prefer lightweight walking shoes but still want cushioning and support. We tested the Cloud 5, but both versions have similar features, with the Cloud 6 having a bit more cushioning and a slightly wider fit. We were impressed with the cloud-like comfort from the first few minutes of walking, which persisted throughout hours of extended wear. One of our testers with a history of plantar fasciitis, found the cushioning and support was 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 them easy to put on and take off. And they also come with traditional laces in case you prefer more adjustability.
Also available in men’s sizes at Amazon and On.
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.
ON Cloud 5 Sneakers are easy to slip on and offer support and breathability.
Credit: Verywell FitOn Cloud 5 Sneakers have unique, airy rubber outsoles that provide plenty of traction.
Credit: Verywell Fit
Credit: Amazon
Key Specs:
Sizes: Women’s 5-12 | Weight: 8.3 ounces | Drop: 10 millimeters | Closure: Lace-up and slip-on | Cushioning: Moderate | Materials: Engineered knit upper, foam midsole, rubber outsole | Our Overall Rating: 5/5
Who They’re For
Best for wearers needing the convenience of a slip-on shoe with the versatility of a stylish, all-day design.
Why We Love Them
The ease and convenience of being able to slip your shoes on and not worry about laces is why Ryka’s Jumpstart Lace Slip-On Sneaker is a good pick for casual walking and everyday wear. Available in medium and wide widths, we appreciate the firm, snug fit of the narrower heel that made maneuverability easy and effortless. Our feet didn’t slip or slide around inside the shoe, and we felt secure and stable even on rough or uneven surfaces. And the cushioning helped support our back, knees, and ankles.
These shoes offer a good balance of soft yet solid cushioning that provides great shock absorption—especially on concrete or when going down stairs. We especially love their stylish design and versatility, easily wearing them for everything from the gym to a casual lunch out. The ease of being able to slip them on and off makes them nice for anyone with knee or back issues. These shoes are a great value for their all-day comfort, stability, and design.
Potential Flaws
- We liked the snug fit of these shoes, but we noted they were a bit long in the toe. However, it didn’t hinder our ability to walk normally.
Meet Our Testers
Our tester walks several days a week for up to two miles, as well as for errands and daily activities. She has no particular foot conditions and exercises regularly, often looking for shoes that offer comfort, support, and convenience.
Credit: Saucony
Key Specs:
Sizes: Women’s 5-12 | Weight: 7.2 ounces | Drop: 8 millimeters | Closure: Lace-up | Cushioning: Maximum | Materials: Nylon mesh upper, foam midsole, rubber outsole | Our Overall Rating: 4.7/5
Who They’re For
Best for wearers who have arthritis and need maximum cushioning for support and comfort.
Why We Love Them
Saucony’s Endorphin Speed 5 Running Shoes offer maximum cushioning and comfort for easy all-day wear. We found the cushioning to be great for arthritis support and reduced joint impact. Built for speed, these shoes feature a nylon plate in the midsole that provides plenty of springy responsiveness, which we found helped us maintain a smooth and natural stride, even on hilly roads and loose stones.
We also found the plush comfort of these shoes was consistent across a variety of surfaces and activities and didn’t wear out during our test period. Hard surfaces like concrete were no match for their excellent shock-absorbing qualities. We also appreciated the added stability and traction of the wide heel design on the outsole. The fit of the upper can be easily adjusted with the laces, and we like the ten different color options.
Also available in men’s sizes at Zappos, Dick’s, and Saucony.
Potential Flaws
- During our test, we noticed a strong chemical-like odor from the shoes that made it difficult to wear them for long periods of time.
Meet Our Testers
Our tester is moderately active, exercising three times a week on average, on various surfaces like wood floors, concrete, asphalt, or a treadmill. She suffers from arthritis in her feet and wear-tested these shoes in numerous settings, including while gardening, fitness walking, strength training and doing cardio exercise.
Credit: Orthofeet
Key Specs
Sizes: Women’s 5-12 | Weight: 9.7 ounces | Drop: 12 millimeters | 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 women who need 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 keeps us surefooted on slick surfaces.
Potential Flaws
- Our feet did feel quite warm on some walks in these shoes, so we wish the material were 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.
Orthofeet Kita slip-on shoes come with orthotic insoles, fitting spacers, and an arch booster.
Credit: Verywell FitOrthofeet Kita slip-on shoes provide shock absorption during low-impact workouts and long walks.
Credit: Verywell Fit
Credit: Amazon
Key Specs
Sizes: Women’s 5-11 | Weight: 8 ounces | Drop: 9.6 millimeters | 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 and provide all-day comfort.
Also available in men’s sizes at Amazon and 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.
Credit: Nike
Pros
Ample arch support and cushioning
Versatile for walking and running
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 for Nike fans who want a pair of responsive 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 walk 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 by 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 Amazon, Nike, and Kohl’s.
Potential Flaws
- The shoe’s fit is very comfortable, but the collar is on the stiffer side.
- 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. They both loved the ample cushion of these shoes.
Credit: Zappos
Key Specs
Sizes: Women’s 5-13 | Weight: 11.2 ounces | 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 who have wide feet or bunions and prefer a hands-free, slip-on shoe for light activities.
Why We Love Them
Kizik’s Athens 2 Shoe is a popular favorite suitable for both light exercise and daily wear. While we tested the original Athens, the Athens 2 has all the same great features, along with a more breathable upper and bouncier midsole. With wide sizes available, the shoes accommodate larger feet and bunions while allowing room for toes to splay naturally. During testing, we noticed the midsole cushioning strikes the perfect balance between plush and firm, delivering comfort and support.
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.
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.
Credit: Altra
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 women 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 9, also works well for hiking and walking on all terrains. We tested the Lone Peak 8, and while the 8 is slightly more lightweight, the Lone Peak 9 has a narrower heel collar and grippier outsole. 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, crucial for maintaining balance and confidence 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 thick lugs on the outsole offer 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.
Available in men’s sizes at Amazon, Altra, and REI.
Potential Flaws
- During testing, we found that the midsole of these shoes was 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.
Credit: Vionic
Pros
Lightweight and breathable
Good stability and support
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 wears 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 she really needs quality, supportive shoes.
Credit: Amazon
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 women 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 27 Running Shoe is a versatile option. We tested the Nimbus 26, but the 27 has similar features, with the added benefit of a more breathable and lighter upper. 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. 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 and Asics.
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 be suitable for those who require extra stability in motion control, such as individuals with overpronation.
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 attending 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 100+ pairs of walking shoes but only included 12 in our final list of top walking shoes for women—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.
Two testers evaluated each pair of walking shoes to give different perspectives.
Verywell Fit
What We’ve Updated
- Since publishing our initial tested roundup of the best walking shoes for women, we tested two new pairs, bringing our total to over 100 pairs of walking shoes tested.
- Based on our testing insights, we replaced our picks for Best Cushioned and Best Slip-On with new selections, as well as updated four selections with the newest version of the shoe’s model.
What to Look for When Shopping for the Best Women’s Walking Shoes
- 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.
- 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. 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.
- Breathability: Breathability is important to reduce moisture and sweat buildup to prevent blisters and hot spots. Uppers made of mesh or similar breathable material will provide good ventilation.
Consider fit, materials, cushioning, and support when choosing a walking shoe.
Verywell Fit
How We Tested the Best Women’s Walking Shoes
To find the best walking shoes for women, we spent over one month testing 100+ pairs of sneakers in real-world conditions. Our team of 42 testers has 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 women’s 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 if 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. 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 swell throughout the day.
- 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 whether we would pay the regular price or wait for the shoes to go on sale. Finally, we consider whether we would recommend the shoes to friends and family.
Testers evaluated walking shoes based comfort, responsiveness, value, and more.
Verywell Fit
Our Experts
To guide our research, testing, and final selection of the best walking shoes for women, we interviewed five experts to gain their insights on the key features to 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
Experts offered recommendations for what to look for in a quality walking shoe.
Verywell Fit
Frequently Asked Questions
What shoes do podiatrists recommend for walking?
Walking shoes should generally weigh less than 9 ounces, as heavier pairs can weigh you down, especially on long walks, and ample cushioning in the midfoot provides optimal shock absorption. Our top pick Ryka’s Devotion X, and our best cushioned pick, Saucony’s Endorphin Speed 5 check both of these boxes.
Which brand has the most comfortable women’s walking shoes?
Cushioning and breathability are important for comfort, especially on long walks. Our best lightweight choice, On’s Cloud 6, provides plenty of cushioning and are super breathable, thanks to their lightweight mesh upper. Nike’s Motiva, our best Nike selection, also offers ample arch support and cushioning.
How long do walking shoes last?
Walking shoes should last about 350 to 500 miles or six to eight months. According to Parthasarathy, you should replace shoes 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 shoes immediately.
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 Verywell Fit fitness writer, Christine Luff, ACE-CPT, has spent years researching and recommending running and walking shoes to clients and friends. For this article, she reviewed insights from our experts and the Verywell Fit team to evaluate the shoes based on fit, cushioning, quality, comfort, responsiveness, stability, and value. She suggests getting properly fitted for walking shoes and replacing them regularly to walk comfortably and reduce injury risk.
Additional reporting by Jen Zeltwanger
Jen Zeltwanger, ACSM-EP, is an ACSM-certified exercise physiologist and Verywell Fit fitness writer. She has 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.
