AP Buyline’s content is created independently of The Associated Press newsroom. Our evaluations and opinions are not influenced by our advertising relationships, but we might earn commissions from our partners’ links in this content. Learn more about our policies and terms here.
Walking is one of the healthiest forms of exercise, but optimal foot support is essential to feeling good while walking. In this guide, we’ll break down the best walking shoes for women, based on advice from our experts. Let’s get moving!
What to consider when buying the best walking shoes for women
“The goal of a good walking shoe is to provide support and comfort. Your feet are not just vital for getting you from point ‘A’ to point ‘B,’ they also support the weight of your whole body,” says Dr. Yash Mehta, interventional spine and sports medicine doctor at Virginia Spine Institute.
To that end, “You want to make sure you have a proper fit. Too much space and your feet are moving around and not properly supported; too little and your feet are too snug, leading to bending your toes in the front or causing calluses,” says Mehta. You also want a shoe that is right for your heels and arches. “Lastly, you want good stability on both the inner and outer portions of the ankle. Too much give may change your walking mechanics and can also lead to ankle sprains,” he says.
Fit
“A wide toe box is beneficial for walking so that your foot can function naturally and your toes can spread,” says Dr. Alissa Kuizinas, doctor of podiatric medicine. “Not only is this comfortable, but it prevents rubbing on the big and pinky toes, which could result in blisters. Many footwear brands are narrow, with a tapered or triangular-shaped toe box. This (fit) could cause people to develop issues such as bunions and hammertoes from their shoes constantly compressing their foot bones together. Additionally, a narrow toe box can cause blisters, corns and calluses.”
Cushioning
The amount of cushioning will depend on your foot structure and your tolerance to the ground surface you’re walking on, advises Kuizinas. “Lower cushion shoes are great for those who can tolerate them comfortably. Those with issues such as arthritis or pain can look to increase their cushion level. Ultimately, you want your walking shoe to allow the most natural walking pattern possible and to not compress your feet or limit their movement unnecessarily,” she says.
“Contrary to popular belief, sometimes highly cushioned shoes are not the best option because you’re adding more space between your foot and the ground, which could result in an unbalanced feeling. This is particularly a concern with the elderly, and why research has shown that a barefoot shoe may be a better pick,” adds Kuizinas.
Stability
Shoes with a flexible sole will allow your feet to bend and flex naturally. “This could take some getting used to, especially if you’ve been walking in stiffer or highly cushioned shoes, but over time, your feet will regain their full range of motion,” says Kuizinas.
Material
“Look for a shoe made with breathable materials, like mesh or canvas, to ensure your feet are ventilated. This will allow heat to escape. Look for shoes with a moisture-wicking material to wick sweat,” says Kuizinas.
Convenience
“For older people or pregnant women, sometimes a slip-on shoe is better for walking. As long as the shoe has adequate support wrapping around the heel, so the foot can bend and flex naturally, a slip-on is a good choice,” says Kuizinas.
Price
“I recommend picking shoes that are in the mid-range price," says Kuizinas. “Be wary of shoes that are under $50, and read reviews to ensure you’re getting a quality shoe made with materials that will last.”
Our top picks for the best walking shoes for women
Best affordable walking shoe for women: ASICS GT-1000 11
Best affordable walking shoe for women
ASICS GT-1000 11
If you’re on the go all day, having suitable shoes is extremely important for supporting your feet and your body. The ASICS GT-1000 11 shoe is doctor-reviewed and, according to the American Podiatric Medical Association (APMA), it promotes good foot health. This shoe is designed for someone who is active throughout the day, but it’s also effective for running or wearing at the gym. The foam cushioning in the midsole is less dense than previous versions of this shoe, made of material that creates softer landings.
Specifications:
- Sizes: 5 to 12.
- Shoe type: Running, good for road surfaces.
- Weight: 7.9 ounces.
- Lacing system: Regular.
- Colors: Each pairing is formatted as shoe body color/accent color: Black/white, white/clear blue, sage/soothing sea, dried berry/pink glo, blazing coral/papaya, white/digital violet, black/orchid, mako blue/barely rose, lapis lazuli blue/soft sky, indigo blue/sky, piedmont gray/pure silver, black/black, dusk violet/violet quartz, white/dive blue, glacier gray/dive blue, black/tourmaline, cranberry/pure silver.
- Heel drop: Nine millimeters.
- Cushioning: Regular.
- Price on publish: $69.95.
What we like:
- This shoe has been doctor-reviewed by the APMA and found to help foot health.
- Specially designed cushioning helps create softer landings.
- Technology in the midsole reduces pronation (when your foot rolls too far to the inside).
What we don’t like:
- Narrow.
- Runs small.
- Some customers report holes forming in the fabric near the toes within six months of use.
- Not enough cushioning in the heel area.
The AP Buyline takeaway:
The ASICS GT-1000 11 has been doctor-reviewed and found to promote good foot health by the APMA. It’s designed with cushioning to help create softer landings for people who are on their feet all day.
Get it here: ASICS GT-1000 11
Best walking shoe for pregnant women: Altra Women's Torin 7
Best walking shoe for pregnant women
Altra | Torin 7 | White | Women's | Size: 10
As your mid-body changes during pregnancy, your feet change, too. “Because your feet can change in size during pregnancy (from swelling or actual growth), a wider shoe, with a wider toe box, such as the Altra Torin, will be more comfortable,” says Kuizinas. “This model also comes in a ‘wide’ size to accommodate different foot needs.” The Altra Torin has a roomy toe box so your toes can move freely. The midfoot is secure and provides stability. It comes in regular and wide widths.
Specifications:
- Sizes: 5.5 to 12.
- Shoe type: Good for road running and walking.
- Weight: 8.1 ounces.
- Lacing system: Regular.
- Colors: White/blue, blue, deep teal/pink, black, yellow, pink, white/black.
- Heel drop: 0 millimeters.
- Cushioning: High.
- Price on publish: $150.
What we like:
- Extra cushioning in the midsole adds more bounce and durability.
- Large toe box.
- Doctor-reviewed by the APMA and found to help foot health.
What we don’t like:
- Customers report that these shoes are narrower than previous Torin iterations, and they had to buy the “wide” width to compensate.
- Tongue bunches up during use and can cause irritation on the top of the foot.
- Can be stiff.
The AP Buyline takeaway:
The Altra Women’s Torin 7 has a wide toe box, which allows you to move your toes freely. This shoe is also wide enough to support your changing body and feet during pregnancy.
Get it here: Altra Women's Torin 7
Best walking shoes for plus-sized women: Topo Athletic Specter
Best walking shoes for plus-sized women
Topo Athletic Women's Specter Comfortable Lightweight 5MM Drop Road Running Shoes, Athletic Shoes for Road Running
Shock-absorbing shoes help protect your knees and joints. “Cushioned sneakers and, sometimes, a rocker sole can be helpful for plus-sized women,” says Kuizinas. She recommends the Topo Athletic Specter for its cushion, heel and forefoot rocker design, which she says will help to propel you forward while walking.
Specifications:
- Sizes: 6 to 12.
- Shoe type: Daily running, tempo runs and racing.
- Weight: 6.9 ounces.
- Lacing system: Regular.
- Colors: Espresso/peach, aqua/lime, white/gray.
- Heel drop: Five millimeters.
- Cushioning: High.
- Price on publish: $160.
What we like:
- Large toe box.
- Performance insoles that are resilient and anti-microbial.
- Lightweight and breathable.
What we don’t like:
- Narrow midfoot.
- Less durable outsole than other options.
- Few color choices.
The AP Buyline takeaway:
Shock-absorbing shoes with a heel and foot rocker design, such as the Topo Athletic Specter, are helpful for plus-sized women because they provide support and comfort.
Get it here: Topo Athletic Specter
Best arch support walking shoes for women: Dansko Pace
Best arch support walking shoes for women
The Dansko Pace is designed with technology to support the arch and stabilize the heel. This sneaker also has a shock-absorbing footbed, is made with sustainable materials and has a sock-lining textile that protects from moisture and sweat (and controls odor). Its rubber outsole is designed to last.
Specifications:
- Sizes: 5.5 to 12.
- Shoe type: Walking.
- Weight: 9.1 ounces.
- Lacing system: Regular.
- Colors: Navy, black, black/gray.
- Heel height: 1.8 inches.
- Cushioning: High.
- Price on publish: $99.98
What we like:
- Good arch support.
- Very comfortable.
- APMA approved.
What we don’t like:
- Narrow and longer than usual for each size.
- Customers report a lack of durability.
- Customer reviews indicate that these are not ideal shoes for standing all day.
The AP Buyline takeaway:
The Dansko Pace is designed specifically for arch support and heel stability, providing shock absorption and reinforcement.
Get it here: Dansko Pace
Best walking shoes for women with knee pain or shin splints: Topo Athletic Ultrafly
Best for knee pain or shin splints
Topo Athletic Ultrafly
“Topo Athletic is a great brand that provides some cushioning for knee pain or shin splints,” says Kuizinas. She adds that this model has the APMA seal of approval. “All of their shoes have a wide toe box and a very comfortable foot shape. I like that this shoe features recycled materials,” she adds.
Specifications:
- Sizes: 6 to 10.5.
- Shoe type: Daily walking and running.
- Weight: 7.7 ounces.
- Lacing system: Regular.
- Colors: Maroon/black and mint/green.
- Heel drop: Five millimeters.
- Cushioning: Medium.
- Price on publish: $134.95.
What we like:
- Built for users who need light pronation support.
- APMA approved.
- Midsole technology adds extra rebound.
- Wide toe box.
What we don’t like:
- Not durable.
- Lack of size options.
- Few color options.
The AP Buyline takeaway:
The Topo Athletic Ultrafly is a supportive option for anyone with knee pain or shin splints. It provides cushioning and pronation reinforcement.
Get it here: Topo Athletic Ultrafly
Best walking shoes with a wide toe box: Xero Shoes Prio Neo
Best walking shoes with a wide toe box
Xero Shoes Prio Neo
“These shoes have a wide toe box, without feeling wide overall,” says Kuizinas. “Your toes can spread, but you’ll feel supported in your midfoot and heel.” Ideal for long walks and hot days, she adds, “The Prio Neo has a flexible sole for proper foot flexion and breathable mesh and moisture-wicking for walking in warmer temps.”
Specifications:
- Sizes: 5 to 12.
- Shoe type: Walking and running.
- Weight: 7.3 ounces.
- Lacing system: Regular.
- Colors: Asphalt/black, asphalt/blue radiance, scuba/yellow, storm, white.
- Heel drop: Zero millimeters.
- Cushioning: Regular.
- Price on publish: $99.99.
What we like:
- 5,000 mile sole warranty.
- Wider toe box.
- Adjustable midfoot and heel/instep straps to fit your unique feet.
What we don’t like:
- Customers report that this shoe is not true to size.
- Can be slippery on wet and smooth surfaces.
- Customer service tends to be slow.
The AP Buyline takeaway:
The Xero Shoes Prio Neo shoe has a wide toe box and a sturdy midfoot and heel, providing space for your toes to move, while also supporting the rest of your foot.
Get it here: Xero Shoes Prio Neo
Best walking shoes for flat feet: Xero Shoes Nexus Knit
Best walking shoes for flat feet
Xero Shoes Nexus Knit
According to Kuizinas, strengthening the muscles in your feet can help with flat feet, and by wearing zero-drop shoes, users can strengthen their feet. Kuizinas recommends the Xero Shoes Nexus Knit because it promotes ankle mobility, foot function and foot strength. “(The shoe allows) your ankle to utilize its full range of motion and, therefore, (activate) the full power of your muscles and tendons.”
Specifications:
- Sizes: 5 to 12.
- Shoe type: Walking and running.
- Weight: 7.4 ounces.
- Lacing system: Regular, but shoe can be worn comfortably without laces.
- Colors: Black, white and orion blue.
- Heel drop: Zero millimeters.
- Cushioning: Regular.
- Price on publish: $114.99.
What we like:
- Good for users who want a barefoot shoe, as they’re designed to fit like socks.
- Supportive enough to wear when walking or hiking all day.
- Good gym shoes for strength training.
What we don’t like:
- Tends to run small and narrow.
- Customers report inconsistent sizing within different Xero shoes.
- Difficult return policy.
- Lack of durability in the sole.
The AP Buyline takeaway:
The Xero Shoes Nexus Knit shoe allows the ankle to utilize a full range of motion, and can strengthen the feet of the wearer.
Get it here: Xero Shoes Nexus Knit
Best walking shoes for plantar fasciitis: Altra FWD Experience
Best walking shoes for plantar fasciitis
Altra FWD Experience
If you’re looking for shoes for plantar fasciitis, you need to choose carefully. “Plantar fasciitis can occur from shoes that are too stiff or sometimes too small,” says Kuizinas. “The Altra FWD Experience is a great fit because it has a foot-shaped design and a low heel-to-toe drop that is still natural, but the added 4 millimeters of stack height can feel better on the fascia.”
Specifications:
- Sizes: 5.5 to 12.
- Shoe type: Walking and road running.
- Weight: 7.1 ounces.
- Lacing system: Regular.
- Colors: Gray/purple, black, white, pink/orange.
- Heel drop: Four millimeters.
- Cushioning: Medium.
- Price on publish: $140.
What we like:
- Larger toe box.
- Rocker shape so your foot is propelled forward.
- Lightweight.
What we don’t like:
- Rocker shape causes a midfoot strike, which can be problematic for some users.
- Sizes run small.
The AP Buyline takeaway:
The Altra FWD has a low heel-to-toe drop and 4 millimeters of stack height that feels better on the fascia than most shoes.
Get it here: Altra FWD Experience
Related article: Best shoes for plantar fasciitis, according to podiatrists
Best walking sandals: TEVA Sanborn Mia
Best walking sandals
TEVA Sanborn Mia
This shoe is great for anyone who wants to go on light hikes, then continue the day with the same shoes. The TEVA Sanborn Mia has a velcro lacing system and light cushioning. It’s ideal for outdoor travel in hot regions. The straps provide adjustable support, and the sandal provides versatility.
Specifications:
- Sizes: 5 to 11.
- Shoe type: Light hikes, all-day wear and travel.
- Weight: Not listed.
- Lacing system: Velcro.
- Colors: Black.
- Heel drop: Not listed.
- Cushioning: Light.
- Price on publish: $70.
What we like:
- Versatility and price.
- Made of recycled and vegan materials.
- Multiple areas can be adjusted to achieve a perfect fit.
- Treated with a natural anti-odor system.
What we don’t like:
- Lack of color options.
The AP Buyline takeaway:
Ideal for the traveler, the TEVA Sanborn MIA provides foot support and breathability during hikes and all-day wear.
Get it here: TEVA Sanborn Mia
How we chose the right walking shoes for women
I chose all the shoes on this list of the best walking shoes for women based on expert advice from a podiatrist, in addition to conducting thorough research to ensure that every one of our picks has positive customer reviews especially in terms of fit, longevity, comfort and value for money.
If you found this guide helpful, be sure to also check out our guides to the best weightlifting shoes and the best running shoes for men.
Frequently asked questions (FAQs)
How do I know if my walking shoes fit properly?
“Many people may be surprised to find that they’re wearing the wrong size shoe,” says Kuizinas. “Use a Brannock guide often found in shoe stores,” she adds. This metal device allows you to measure the length and width of each foot.
Sometimes, one foot can be longer or shorter than the other. “You’ll know if your shoes fit properly because they feel secure at the heel and midfoot and don’t slide around. I recommend having a wider toe box shoe so toes can spread out, but this shouldn’t cause the rest of your foot to move around in your shoe,” she advises.
How often should I replace my walking shoes?
“Durability depends on how often one is using their shoes. However, the usual recommendation is to change shoes every 300 miles for the best overall support and comfort because that is how long it takes, on average, for the shoes to wear down,” says Mehta.
“A good indicator is to look at the bottom of the sole: If there are wear patterns where the tread has worn down to smooth, it’s time to replace,” adds Kuizinas.
Which walking shoes are best for foot conditions?
“Ultimately there isn’t a specific shoe that addresses specific foot conditions; it all depends on the individual,” says Kuizinas. “One of the best ways to mitigate foot conditions, such as flat feet and plantar fasciitis, is by strengthening the feet.” She points to a study published in the “Scandinavian Journal of Medicine & Science in Sports” that found that strength training exercises for the foot result in better outcomes than stretching alone for those suffering from plantar fasciitis.
“When it comes to wearing shoes, wear what feels comfortable to you. People with arthritis, extreme hammer toes or ball of foot pain may feel better with some cushioning under their feet. That’s where a shoe like Orthofeet Edgewater may be a good fit. For bunions, stick to shoes with a wide toe box, which will alleviate the hot spots that your bunions feel when you’re wearing tight shoes. The Xero Shoes Prio Neo is a good option,” she advises.
Read article: How to clean shoes: Tips and supplies to shape up your footwear
AP Buyline’s content is created independently of The Associated Press newsroom. Our evaluations and opinions are not influenced by our advertising relationships, but we might earn commissions from our partners’ links in this content. Learn more about our policies and terms here.
