The quest for the best walking shoes for women is based on foot type and foot issues is a complex undertaking for a few reasons. According to several footwear industry experts, the market for walking shoes is still undeveloped.
However, the Sports & Exercise Industry Association estimates that in 2021, 115.8 million Americans (age 6 and older) will have walked for fitness at least once.
Due to the closure of gyms during the pandemic, walking became the most popular form of exercise in 2020; 56% of those walkers identified as women, according to SIFA.
Second, buying walking shoes in the wrong size is one of the customers’ biggest blunders.
Make sure you wear cozy women’s shoes supporting good foot health before you leave the house to begin your daily stroll.
So even if you want to wear running shoes for walking, choosing the best walking shoes for women shouldn’t ever require you to give up comfort for style.
Since walking has many positive health effects, you should be certain to pick the best women’s walking shoes before beginning your daily walk.
Aside from helping you lose weight, walking reduces your chances of developing heart disease, stroke, and type 2 diabetes, according to the American Heart Association and the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. Another excellent technique to lower stress and lift your mood is to go for a walk.
We understand that buying walking shoes might be challenging. Some customers may choose tennis shoes or running sneakers from well-known sneaker brands like New Balance and Adidas for their walking needs. In contrast, others may search for fashionable “athleisure” footwear from businesses like Allbirds and Rothy’s.
Some people might just have no idea where to start their search. From walking shoe manufacturers like Vionic and Kuru that use specialized technology for various foot ailments to daily walking shoes with arch support and a lightweight feel from sports shoe manufacturers like Ryka and Hoka One One.
To determine the top walking shoes for women in 2022, we tested countless pairs of shoes and combed through countless pages of customer reviews of the most popular shoe designs.
We considered every form of foot need for walkers who have knee pain, heel spurs, Plantar Fasciitis, or any other foot ailment.
We have everything you need, including orthopedic and nursing shoes, if you’re just looking for durable footwear for your next travels or need 9 to 5 work shoes for women that will keep you comfortable while standing all day.
You’ll find our in-depth guide to women’s walking shoes up ahead, along with expert selections and advice from several podiatrists to bear in mind while buying women’s walking shoes.
The Best Walking Shoes for Women Of 2022
- The best running shoes for walking: Adidas Ultraboost 22 Sneakers
- Best Everyday Walking Shoes: Nike React Infinity Run Flyknit Sneakers
- The best orthopedic footwear: Vionic Tokyo Sneakers
- Best for Concrete: Hoka Bondi 8 Sneakers
- The lightest: New Balance’s FuelCore Nergize Sneakers
- The best shoes for Plantar Fasciitis: Gravity Defyer Proven Pain Relief Women’s G-Defy Mighty Walk
- Best Travel Sneakers: Brooks Adrenaline GTS22 Sneakers
- Podiatry-recommended: Asics Gel Nimbus 24 Sneakers
- Trail-ready: Altra Outroad Sneakers
Best Running Shoes for Walking
Adidas Women’s Ultraboost 22 Running Sneakers
- Weight: 10 oz.
- Materials: Rubber, foam, knit
- Support: Neutral
- Pros: Lighter than Ultraboost 21, comfortable upper, excellent durability, good stability.
- Cons: Pricey
- Best for: All types of walks, city sightseeing, walking outside, multiple activities
On Amazon, this Adidas style has almost 1,500 near-perfect reviews and has won countless awards from multiple publications.
Let us introduce you to the gift to your feet, the Adidas Ultraboost 22.
A sneaker’s standout feature is its forefoot bend combined with a supportive heel, a feature commonly overlooked.
Running shoes, but with a supportive, sock-like fit (among the best walking shoes for narrow feet) and responsive cushioning, are perfect for everyday wear.
What’s the deal? Standing will never get old for you. Adidas walking shoes are among the best on the market.
Reviewers Say: “This is my third pair of Ultraboosts.”. They are the most comfortable and futuristic shoes I have ever worn. It is very comfortable for me. I can wear them all day when I’m on my feet and not be in pain at the end of the day.”
What Our Testers Say: “The Adidas Ultraboost feels like royalty on my feet, although I have tiny, flat feet. I walked around Italy for two weeks with these without experiencing any discomfort or foot weariness.
I wear them daily while walking miles through various areas as a dog walker. They provide me with a supporting control and an adequate cushion as I power walk.
Best Everyday Walking Shoes for Women
Nike React Infinity Run Flyknit two Running Sneakers
- Weight: 8.6 oz.
- Materials: Flyknit upper, foam
- Support: Cushioning with neutral support
- Pros: Comfortable foam footbed without compromising balance, multiple colors, Nike’s most tested shoe, added collar cushioning
- Cons: Pricey, runs small
- Best for: Running, walking, sightseeing, walking outside, and a variety of activities
Sneaker lists without Nikes are like a cake without toppings: They just don’t make sense. React Infinity Run Flyknit is one of the most popular styles from Nike.
It is even lighter, more stylish, and more versatile than the first FlyKnit style. The midsole cushion is durable and can be relied upon for long distances.
Everybody can wear this sneaker, as they provide a stable feeling on foot. They’re also ideal for people who walk with their toes enlarged due to their cushioned footbed and roomy upper.
Besides being one of the best Nike walking shoes, they are also one of the best sneakers in general.
You can instantly feel the energy of its responsive foam when walking or running. As a result of the cushioning, the impact is absorbed, and the weight is evenly distributed, so there will be no pain in your feet.
This dreamy versatile sneaker is made with a knit material that feels more like a sock than a sneaker.
What Reviewers Say: “I put these on, and when I felt how comfy they were, I didn’t want to take them off. They make walking feel better and have a lot of bounce and arch support.
These provide a cushion to absorb the impact and lessen pain because my left foot, ankle, and knee are damaged.
What Our Testers Say: “When I plan to do a bit of everything, these sneakers are my go-to exercise shoes. These are my go-to sneakers for running errands when I’m on the go during the day.
They are chic, uncomplicated, and cozy. I enjoy how they fit and feel for hours despite having short, broad feet.
Best Orthopedic Walking Shoes for Women
Vionic Tokyo Sneakers
- Weight: 8 oz.
- Materials: Uppers made of mesh and synthetic materials, removable EVA orthotic inserts, cushioned outsoles
- Support: Provides maximum support.
- Pros: Medium and wide widths, incredibly supportive footbed, excellent arch support, American Podiatric Medical Association (APMA) seal of acceptance
- Cons: It takes a week for the shoes to break in properly, and they run slightly wide
- Best for: Women suffering from foot pain or lower extremity discomforts
Podiatrists recommend Vionic shoes because they make your feet feel good and perform well.
According to the APMA, the Tokyo sneaker is the label’s top walking shoe.
This style features a snug mesh upper, durable rubber outsoles, and a cushioned tongue and collar for added ankle support.
An Advanced Motion System technology provides stability, pain relief, and a removable podiatrist-designed orthotic insole.
As a result, mobility is improved, and comfort is increased. They also feature a breathable mesh fabric to keep you cool and prevent moisture-induced infections.
Innovative footwear that keeps you moving while you heal is the product of Vionic prioritizing the fight against health problems.
Reviewers’ Opinions: “I adore every pair of shoes I own from Vionic. Still, I’m especially fond of the company’s sporty styles because they support my arch and prevent plantar fasciitis when I exercise.
I just determined it might be time for new Vionics after seeing my feet ached and my legs fatigued after my lengthy walks.
My previous pairs were the best I’d ever had, but the Tokyo style has a thick sole and offers even more support. Have worn these and haven’t taken them off yet.”
What Testers Have to Say: “My feet are broad, and I have high arches, and these sneakers gave me immediate support.”
I was particularly conscious of the breezy mesh that stopped my feet from perspiring when I wore them on walks and throughout town.
Another thing I noticed was the spacious footbed, which didn’t squeeze my toes like some other shoes I had tried.
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Best Women’s Shoes for Walking on Concrete
HOKA ONE ONE Women’s Bondi SR Leather
- Weight: 8.9 oz.
- Materials: synthetic mesh, memory ortholite foam, hybrid sock lining
- Support: It’s neutral
- Pros: Pull tab on heel, breathable, extreme foam comfort, regular, wide, and extra wide sizes; seal of approval from the American Podiatric Medical Association (APMA)
- Cons: The extra foamy footbed can throw off balance, it is big for narrow feet, and it is bulkier than other Hokas.
- Best for: Running and walking on hard surfaces, city sightseeing, wide-footed women
You’ve heard the name mentioned, given how widely recognized the Hoka (or Hoka One One) brand has become in recent years.
The considerable cushioning in each of their shoes makes them perfect for anyone with high arches and back discomfort.
The Bondi 8 from Hoka One One has full compression EVA midsoles, marshmallow-like cushioning, and a soft collar to relieve Achilles tendon pressure.
However, the additional cushion makes things fit a little tighter, which may provide more support.
The maximalist design is distinctive but practical because it reduces pressure on your knees while absorbing stress.
The Hoka Bondi 8 combines the most significant aspects of all worlds with a supportive fit. The American Podiatric Medical Association (APMA) also awarded their Seal of Acceptance to this sneaker.
A team of APMA podiatrists evaluates any product with this seal to ensure it supports appropriate foot health.
The Meta-Rocker design encourages a smooth transition from heel-strike to toe-off, available in various colors and extended sizes.
These are made to help you go ahead, so power walking and running are both simple.
They’re a fantastic alternative for all kinds of walking and will quickly become the sneakers that, after a long day, you won’t want to take off.
According to the reviewers: “They provide good arch support. I find them comfy all day because I stand for at least six hours.”
What Our Testers Have To Say: “I frequently run and stroll on a treadmill, which can be taxing on the knees. After wearing Hokas, I noticed a significant difference in my walk/run pace and how I landed with each step.
I no longer feared the hit, and my knees felt energized. I tried out around ten pairs of shoes for this article, and these Hokas are my favorite. My feet are slightly wide and have high arches.
Best Women’s Walking Shoes for Plantar Fasciitis
Gravity Defyer Proven Pain Relief Women’s G-Defy Mighty Walk
- Weight: 10.6 oz.
- Materials: Rubber outsole, Gravity Cloud EVA midsole, synthetic upper, synthetic linings
- Support: Provides maximum support.
- Pros: Available in medium and wide widths, explicitly designed for foot aliments (shop by type of foot pain directly on the site)
- Cons: Long shoelaces, slightly heavier than others
* Best for: Standing for long periods
With nearly 12000 nearly perfect evaluations, Gravity is contributing considerably to the footwear industry. The company’s products treat several foot afflictions and have developed a cult following.
The G-Defy Mighty Walk sneaker features a unique Kurusole constructed from the Kurucloud that delivers heel-hugging comfort.
For healthier, younger, and less-tired feet, these unique materials reroute impact forces from the ground and support each stride.
The midsole combines thin foams with comfort on the ground for a supportive yet energetic return.
Additionally, they have a wide toe box, which is lovely for treating heel spurs, bunions, and plantar fasciitis since it allows the toes to spread out naturally.
What Reviewers Have To Say: “My feet suffered by the end of the day despite wearing a shoe that was suggested for plantar fasciitis and heel spurs. When I first used these Kuru Atoms, I was relieved. I do not wish to remove them.
All day, I wear these, and they can’t be compared. I’ve bought 2 additional pairs, and I just want to say THANK YOU!!!”
What Our Testers Say: “I examined several pairs of sneakers for this article, and these have by far the most attention to detail. Before learning anything about the company, I mistakenly believed that these were designed for folks with similar foot issues as mine.
Despite having neutral arches and breadth, I get plantar fasciitis and endure knee pain. Gravity seems to have conducted a case study to address my issues. I intend to continue wearing these for some time.
Best Women’s Walking Shoes for Travel
Brooks Adrenaline GTS22 Sneakers
- Weight: 9 oz.
- Materials: breathable mesh upper and 100% DNA LOFT cushioning for a soft, smooth ride
- Support: Excellent support for women with high arches
* Pros: Available in medium, wide, narrow, and extra wide widths; GuideRails technology provides support by keeping excess movement in check; APMA seal of approval.
* Cons: Compared to the previous model, the latest version has a more flexible upper, which some users complain about for stability
* Best for: Long-distance walking
The Brooks Adrenaline sneaker has been regarded as the ideal walking shoe for 20 years and has thus gained iconic status.
The most recent model, the Brooks Adrenaline GTS22, features a better cushion for support and is lighter and more breathable.
We believe this to be the best outdoor walking shoe for comfort and support, especially for extended walks in unfamiliar cities.
For a lightweight barely-there sensation, the silhouette also has seamless interior construction.
The modest cushion in this pair gives your step just the right amount of spring while maintaining your body’s natural forward walking or running motion.
It provides a cushion that mitigates impact without feeling overly soft and a responsiveness and control ratio that is flawlessly matched.
These shoes are an excellent choice for persons with plantar fasciitis because of their comfort and support combination.
This shoe has the mark of approval from the American Podiatric Medical Association, which indicates that it is excellent for general foot health.
What Customers Have To Say: “Brooks is now my go-to brand. Even though I have plantar fasciitis and work out four to five times a week, my orthotics are no longer required. They look good and have excellent support.
What Our Reviewers Say: “I have high arches and typically find sneakers with good arch support heavy and clunky, but these were not like that.
These will work well if you’re searching for a lightweight, low-profile sneaker that you can use for walking and running.
Best Podiatrist-Recommended Walking Shoes for Women
Asics Gel Nimbus 24 Sneakers
- Weight: 8.9 oz.
- Material: Mesh upper, gel technology in rearfoot and forefoot, OrthoLite X-55 sock liner, Asics Lite rubber, reflective details
- Support: It’s neutral
- Pros: The Nimbus is softer than previous versions, offering highly effective support and cushioning
- Cons: Some users complain that the mesh tongue does not provide enough cushion and rubs against the top of their feet.
- Best for Concrete walking
With approximately 500 nearly perfect Amazon reviews, the Asics Gel Nimbus 24 deserves a spot on this list.
It is the ideal walking shoe for ladies with high and neutral arches because its firm but not overly rigid gel-infused footbed provides the required stability and control.
In the end, you get a pair of sneakers with a layer of springy gel for a cloud-like experience that lets your feet feel supported on the ground.
Additionally, the thoughtfully constructed footbed offers responsive energy in each step and shock absorption at the heel.
Many commonly used thick, foamy footbeds do not provide this level of stable control.
With each stride, these sneakers soften the landing thanks to the gel footbed, which has an almost memory foam pillow-like effect.
What Reviewers Have To Say it runs slightly narrow, so wider-footed women should size up. The comfiest sneakers I’ve ever owned, according to reviewers. I merely have the impression that a soft gel has been wrapped around my entire foot, particularly my heel.
These sneakers were purchased just before my trip to Europe. They were SO comfy that I wore them for ten days. I refrained from using any of my other pairs.
These shoes were tested because of the long days and continual movement with walking and trekking, but they performed admirably.
What Our Testers Say: “Many of my friends are runners, and they often talk about what fantastic shoes these are, so when the chance arose to test, I leaped at it.
Even though I don’t run, I started wearing these for my regular walks. I can’t believe how wonderful these have been for my feet and energy. I have wide feet with modest arches.
I never imagined shoes could be that cozy and supportive. With this footwear, I don’t look forward to the conclusion of my treks like I used to.
I might even think about going for a mile or two now that I understand the hype.”
Best Trail Walking Sneakers for Women
Altra Outroad Sneakers
- Weight: 8.8 oz.
- Materials: Ripstop mesh and foam footbed
- Support: A moderate level
- Pros: Roomy toe space, best walking shoes for women with bunions, slimmer foot shape, grippy MaxTrac has excellent grip, traction, and durability.
- Cons: Some users dislike the foot shape
Altra’s Outroad is a fantastic trail alternative for various foot types and is especially great for women with bunions or pinched toes. It is designed for comfortable all-day wear.
Altra’s proprietary FootShape is the company’s most distinctive characteristic. Compared to the typical shoe, it has a distinctive shape that provides your feet more room to sit naturally.
The toe bed appears boxy to the eye rather than narrow at the toes, as may be seen visually.
The flexible, balanced cushioning of the Outroad enables a landing with less impact. It may also be used for running.
The Altra Rivera is a safe option if you’re not entirely sure of the “kind” of foot you have because it contains a little bit of everything you need in an excellent walking shoe with sufficient outer tread to prevent slipping in any weather.
Altra, which creates some of the best walking and fitness shoes, has a cult-like following among customers who insist they can only wear their products.
This design is one of the best trail sneakers for women of all foot kinds, even though the brand typically produces the most fabulous shoes for broad feet. It has a sleeker silhouette and a roomy toe box.
What Reviewers Are Saying: “I adore this brand. My arch has fallen at the age of 75.
My second toes tend to rub the top of my shoes since they are longer than my big toes. I bought a half-size more, and I’ve had no problems because of the excellent arch support.
What Our Testers Have To Say: “I’ve worn Altra shoes for a long since the broad toe box prevents any form of toe cramping (I have moderately wide feet).
With the addition of trail capabilities, these sneakers were even more fantastic than I remembered. I used them for multi-day hikes, and a few cross-country runs. Even on sweltering days, they helped me to feel secure and comfortable.
Read Next: Best Boots for Women In 2022
Last update on 2024-07-26 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
