The simple act of walking is one of the best things you can do for your physical and mental health. But if your feet are aching, blistered, or unsupported, a revitalizing walk can quickly turn into a painful chore. The culprit? Almost always, it’s the wrong shoes. That’s why we decided to solve this problem once and for all. Our team of editors laced up and pounded the pavement, walking hundreds of combined miles to find the absolute best walking shoes for women. We evaluated them on comfort, support, durability, style, and overall value to bring you a list of winners that will make you want to get your steps in.
What to Look For in a Great Walking Shoe
Before we jump into our top picks, let’s talk about what makes a walking shoe truly exceptional. It’s not just about a brand name; it’s about the technology and design that cradles your foot with every step. Here’s your cheat sheet:
- Cushioning: Look for a midsole that absorbs impact. Whether you prefer a cloud-like, plush feel or a more responsive, springy one, the cushioning should protect your joints from the hard ground.
- Arch Support: A good walking shoe should support your natural arch to prevent strain and conditions like plantar fasciitis. If you have flat feet or high arches, this is a non-negotiable feature.
- A Roomy Toe Box: Your toes need space to splay naturally as you walk. A cramped toe box can lead to bunions, hammertoes, and general discomfort.
- Heel Stability: A firm, supportive heel counter will lock your foot in place, preventing slipping and improving your stability and gait.
- Breathability: Look for uppers made from mesh or other breathable materials to keep your feet cool and dry, preventing blisters and odors.
The Winners: Our Editor-Tested Top Picks
After rigorous testing on sidewalks, park trails, and treadmills, these are the shoes that came out on top.
Best Overall: Hoka Bondi 8
If you’re looking for maximum cushioning that feels like walking on a cloud, the Hoka Bondi 8 is your dream shoe. Its signature oversized midsole provides unparalleled shock absorption, making it a favorite among our editors for long walks and all-day wear. The plush memory foam collar adds another layer of comfort, while the stable base keeps you feeling secure. It’s an investment, but one your feet will thank you for every single day.
Best for Arch Support & Plantar Fasciitis: Vionic Walker Classic
Say goodbye to foot pain. The Vionic Walker Classic is designed with podiatrist-developed technology to provide exceptional arch support and promote natural alignment. Our editor with plantar fasciitis noted a significant reduction in heel pain after just a few walks. While the style is more functional than flashy, the relief it provides is worth its weight in gold. The durable leather upper and firm heel counter offer robust support that lasts.
Best for Travel & Lightweight Comfort: On Cloud 5
When you’re packing light and need a versatile shoe that can handle a full day of sightseeing, the On Cloud 5 is the clear winner. It’s incredibly lightweight, flexible, and features On’s signature CloudTec® sole for soft landings and explosive take-offs. We loved the speed-lacing system for easy on-and-off at airport security and the sleek, minimalist design that pairs well with everything from leggings to jeans.
Best Budget-Friendly Pick: Skechers Go Walk Joy
You don’t have to spend a fortune to get a comfortable walking shoe. The Skechers Go Walk Joy proves that high-quality comfort can come at an affordable price. These slip-on shoes are ridiculously lightweight and feature a responsive 5GEN® cushioning and a breathable mesh upper. Our editors praised them as the perfect shoe for running errands, casual strolls, and everyday life when you just want easy, reliable comfort.
How We Tested
Our review process was simple but thorough. Each editor wore their assigned pair of shoes for a minimum of 30 miles over two weeks. We walked on a variety of surfaces, including concrete sidewalks, asphalt roads, treadmills, and light gravel paths, to test for versatility and durability. We scored each shoe on a 5-point scale for initial comfort, sustained support, breathability, weight, and style to determine our final rankings.
Investing in the right pair of walking shoes is an investment in your health and happiness. Find the pair that fits your needs, and get ready to rediscover the joy of walking!