The Most Comfortable Walking Shoes You Can Buy, According to Experts

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It’s no secret that walking is one of the best things you can do for your body. In fact, walking just 30 minutes a day can help improve your overall health, including lowering blood pressure, strengthening bones and even reducing stress and anxiety. But before you get your steps in, finding the right pair of shoes is essential. Wearing the proper walking shoes can help prevent pain and possible injuries.

We spoke with experts and scoured the web to research the best walking shoes for women. Whether you have a job that requires you to be on your feet for long periods of time or walking long distances is part of your daily routine, this round-up takes the guesswork out of finding the perfect pair of comfortable walking shoes to complement your lifestyle.

According to Dr. Jacqueline Sutera, DPM, spokesperson for the American Podiatric Medical Association (APMA), walking shoes should provide plenty of shock absorption, arch support, and cushioning. And Dr. Nelya Lobkova, DPM, board certified surgical podiatrist and founder of Step Up Footcare in New York City, says that choosing a good pair really matters.

"Walking shoes should really be the shoe of choice for women when planning on commuting, hiking, or packing for a trip. Even when walking to the grocery store, a walking shoe should be worn to offer adequate grip and avoid injuries," she says. "Walking shoes offer enough stability and support for various walking surfaces, prevent multiple lower extremity injuries, and typically don’t wear out as fast as other shoes from heavy use."

And if you’re worried that "comfortable" is another word for unfashionable, you’ll be pleased to see that there are several attractive pairs below. The same holds true for our picks in comfortable high heels, the best running shoes for women, and comfortable dress shoes for standing all day.

Women's Arahi 6 Running Shoes

Outdoor educator Gaby Pilson says the Hoka Arahi 6 takes the cake when it comes to the best walking shoes for women. “They blend breathability, comfort, cushioning, and support into one neat package,” she says. “Like all Hoka shoes, they have an extra-thick midsole that provides all-day cushioning underfoot to limit foot fatigue. Additionally, the Arahi 6 is surprisingly lightweight so they won’t keep you back as you walk. They also use Hoka’s proprietary J-Frame technology, which helps to prevent overpronation as you walk without overcorrecting so much that you start to supinate.”

There are also laudable consciousness practices behind the construction of these shoes. "The Hoka Arahi 6 are completely vegan-friendly and they’re made with a recycled mesh lining," she says. "What’s not to love?"

Size range: 5-11; medium, wide | Weight: 15.2 oz. | Heel drop: 5 mm | Closure: Lace-up | Colors: 8

Women's Bondi 8 Running Shoes

"Since Hoka offers a variety of options suited to individual patient needs, I highly recommend the brand to my patients," says LaToya Miller, PA-C, family medicine and sports medicine.

"They have shoes to accommodate a neutral foot, overpronators, flat feet, etc. Whether it's long-distance walking, hiking or running, they have something for everyone."

While the brand has a variety of offerings, Miller sticks to one particular style for daily wear. "For everyday walking, I recommend Hoka Bondi 8," she says.

Size range: 5-12; medium, wide | Weight: 1 lb. 1.8 oz. | Heel drop: 4 mm | Closure: Lace-up | Colors: 19

Women's Space Hippie 04 Shoes

Tera Thomas, author, entrepreneur and realtor, says these shoes have been a godsend after her recent foot surgery. "These work well with providing a cushiony feel when I walk," she says. "Although flat shoes may seem comfortable, they are not good on my knees."

Not only are these machine-washable kicks functional, they're also fashionable.

"Super comfy! Fits like a glove! I have several pairs and this color is my favorite! Great for long walks and travel!" reads one of the almost 50 five-star reviews on Nike's website.

Size range: 5-12 | Weight: Not listed | Heel drop: Not listed | Closure: Lace-up | Colors: 2

Women's Time Off Sneaker

These sneakers are perfect for days when you want to look chic and pulled together, but with a sporty edge. Made from recycled materials, the 1 1/2-inch platform provides support that's comfortable and flexible. Plus, it's lined with an anti-odor insole that's designed for anatomical cushion.

One reviewer appreciated the stylish versatility. "The soles provided great support and they looked cute with any outfit I wore," they wrote.

Size range: 4-13; medium | Weight: Not listed | Heel drop: Not listed | Closure: Lace-up | Colors: 13

Women's FuelCore Nergize V1 Sneaker

Caroline Grainger, ISSA Certified Personal Trainer at FitnessTrainer, calls these shoes her “personal favorite” pair, categorizing them as both “lightweight and supportive.”

She also offers this pro tip for in-person shopping: “When you’re looking for a pair of walking shoes, I always recommend taking your old pair along with you. Paying attention to how you wear out old sneakers will show you what to look for in your new pair.”

Size range: 5-12; medium, wide | Weight: Not listed | Heel drop: Not listed | Closure: Lace-up | Colors: 13

GOwalk 6 - Clear Virtue

Reda Elmardi is a certified strength and conditioning trainer, registered dietician, and owner of The Gym Goat. He recommends Skechers Go Walk collection for women, calling them "a great pair of walking shoes for anyone looking for a comfortable yet stylish pair of shoes." Elmardi notes that the “breathable mesh uppers help keep feet cool and dry, the heel counter and tongue offer additional support, and the rubber outsole delivers traction.”

Size range: 5.5-11 | Weight: Not listed | Heel drop: Not listed | Closure: Pull-on | Colors: 2

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Women's Triumph 18

Shawn Richards, expedition coordinator at Ultimate Kilimanjaro, says that the overall quality of this shoe makes it a must-buy. "The comfortable springers laced with a lighter foam makes for the best stroll or run you've had in ages,” he says. As a bonus, for those concerned with aesthetics, "The vibrant shoe design is perfect for women and comes in a diverse range of color schemes and audacious patterns."

Size range: 5-12; medium, wide | Weight: Not listed | Heel drop: Not listed | Closure: Lace-up | Colors: 6

Women's Devotion Plus 3 Walking Shoe

Dr. Sutera recommends this shoe largely due to its cushion technology, which utilizes proprietary active foam for added comfort and support. The engineering behind the shoe's design also offers adequate shock absorption, which Dr. Sutera approves of since it will keep joints happy.

Size range: 5-12; medium, wide | Weight: Not listed | Heel drop: Not listed | Closure: Lace-up | Colors: 30

Women's Glycerin 20 Running Shoes

This shoe’s technology allows for high energy return, meaning some of the energy you expel while walking will come back to you, rather than being absorbed by the ground, which forces you to work harder. That design, which is ideal for running, also makes it "perfect for walking,” according to Dr. Sutera.

Size range: 5-12; medium, wide, narrow | Weight: 9.1 oz. | Heel drop: 10 mm | Closure: Lace-up | Colors: 12

Women's Tree Dasher 2

This upgraded version of the Allbirds Tree Dasher features extra grip, more responsive foam, and an improved fit. The design supports walking, running, and low impact workouts, plus the lightweight material makes them ideal for packing while traveling. On top of all this, they're made from eucalyptus tree fiber and are extremely eco-friendly.

Size range: 5-11 | Weight: 8.56 oz. | Heel drop: 7 mm | Closure: Lace-up | Colors: 18

Women's Ultraboost Running Shoe

These Adidas sneakers have more than 1,100 nearly perfect reviews on Amazon. Previous customers wrote that they're lightweight, true to size, and one of the most comfortable shoes they've ever worn. In other words, "nothing short of magic."

Nicole Rogers, a Chicago-based professional makeup artists agrees, "I always wear these sneakers when I'm on set." She adds, "they're incredibly comfy for when I'm on my feet all day."

Size range: 5-11 | Weight: 10.9 oz. | Heel drop: 10 mm | Closure: Lace-up | Colors: 37

Targhee 2 Mid Height Waterproof Hiking Boots

These Keen hiking boots are one of the best options for walking on trails or in other rugged conditions. Dr. Lobkova explains that “They have an elevated heel for maximum support and excellent ankle support for tougher terrain." They're also fully waterproof, letting vapor out without letting water leak in.

Size range: 5-11 | Weight: Not listed | Heel drop: Not listed | Closure: Lace-up | Colors: 10

Miles Active Sneaker

“Vionic Shoes have stylish sneakers, flats, flip flops, and more with amazing arch support,” says Dr. William Spielfogel, a board-certified podiatrist and medical advisor to The Good Feet Store.

These shoes in particular feature several foot-friendly design elements, including breathable mesh uppers, and a dual-density midsole to help alleviate foot-related pain.

Size range: 5-12; medium, wide | Weight: Not listed | Heel drop: Not listed | Closure: Lace-up | Colors: 12

Women's Integrity Walker 3

If your pronation (the natural way your foot rolls inward while walking) is basic — meaning your foot rolls slightly while it evenly distributes your body weight — this moderately-cushioned shoe may be your new BFF. “I highly recommend them for people with a neutral or low arch as they provide great stability, as well as extra padding for shock control,” says Dr. Miguel Cunha, DPM, founder of Gotham Footcare in New York City.

Size range: 5-12; regular, wide, extra wide, narrow | Weight: 10.3 oz | Heel drop: Not listed | Closure: Lace-up | Colors: 3

ATOM

These sleek kicks from Kuru are a great pick for those with plantar fasciitis. The insole molds to your foot to provide much-needed support, and the hollow heel cup relieves pressure on the heel bone, where much of plantar fasciitis pain comes from.

One reviewer with plantar fasciitis, a nurse, said these represent freedom from foot pain, and noted, "I’ll never wear another kind of shoes to work again."

Size range: 5-12; rmedium, wide | Weight: 10.36 oz | Heel drop: 8 mm | Closure: Lace-up | Colors: 12

OOahh Slide Sandal

These easy to slip-on slides are designed to soothe and reinvigorate feet after a tough work out. Plus, the footbed cushioning technology absorbs impact, cradles the arch, and promotes natural foot movement.

"The greatest thing I have ever put on my feet," one reviewer noted. "I feel like I'm walking on marshmallows and don't want to take them off."

What's more, this slide has been acknowledged by the American Podiatric Medical Association for promoting good foot health.

Size range: 5-16; medium | Weight: Not listed | Heel drop: Not listed | Closure: Slip-on | Colors: 6

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What to look for when shopping for walking shoes for women

"I see many women who work on their feet for many hours, for instance doctors, nurses, chefs, and painters. They have different requirements for shoes depending on work-related hazards," Dr. Lobkova says, but across the board, they all benefit from a walking shoe that has the following:

✔️ A slightly elevated heel: This will reduce tension on the Achilles tendon.

✔️ A cushioned ball of the foot: This is preferable to shoes that are flat or not cushioned.

✔️ Material that is easily cleaned: This way, the shoe won't harbor bacteria or fungus.

✔️ Easily removable: Look for shoes that are designed to be easy to take off in case of emergency or injury.

Are there other factors to consider when buying walking shoes?

In order to find the best walking shoes for your specific needs, Dr. Lobkova recommends taking into account three important variables: the walking surface, average walking distance, and the climate they’ll be used in.

With regards to the surface, you should think about whether you’ll primarily walk on concrete or soil, since these materials require different biomechanical support. Dr. Lobkova also points out the differing needs based on climate. She explains that in a warm climate, the optimal walking shoe will have a mesh or breathable upper, whereas a wet and cold climate requires a leather or Gore-Tex weather-proof upper.

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