9 Best Walking Shoes for Women, According to Podiatrists and Fitness Experts
10,000 steps later: These sneakers were still comfortable.
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I walk 10,00 steps everyday, but that wouldn't be possible without comfortable, supportive sneakers. As the associate director of the Good Housekeeping Institute Textiles Lab, I evaluated over 50 pairs of walking shoes with hundreds of consumer testers who have logged over 500 hours of walking. I also consulted sports medicine doctors and podiatrists to analyze the construction of the shoes and narrow down the list to shoes with supportive midsoles, excellent cushioning, and a design that is healthy for your feet. This, coupled with our consumer testers' feedback and our Lab evaluations, helped us pick the best walking shoes for women.
Our top picks:
- Best Overall: Brooks Women’s Ghost 18
- Best Value: Tiosebon Slip-On Walking Shoe
- Most Supportive: Brooks Women’s Adrenaline GTS 25
- Most Versatile: New Balance DynaSoft Nergize Sport V2 Cross Trainer
"Research suggests that walking can reduce the risk of cardiovascular disease and improve longevity," says Stefani Sassos, GH Nutrition & Fitness Lab director and a certified personal trainer. "A regular walking practice can even improve a person's cognition and also help decrease symptoms of anxiety and improve mood." To achieve these benefits, you'll need the right pair of trainers.
Best Deal
Pros
- Transitions from walking to running
- Improved version with more cushioning
- Flat tongue to prevent rubbing
Cons
- Higher heel drop isn't designed for individuals who struggle with balance
Help prevent foot pain with a shoe that prioritizes stability and control. Brooks is a popular running shoe brand, but walkers love the Ghost series for its ample cushioning and comfortable heel. The brand just launched the updated Ghost 18, which has more cushioning, an updated sock liner (the immediate cushioning under your foot), and a flat tongue that helps prevent rubbing.
These sneakers support my entire foot without feeling too heavy, and I often use them on the treadmill because they have plenty of arch support and offer a stable fit. Even after walking over 10 miles in this pair, my feet are still pain-free. Note that this pair features a larger heel drop, measuring 10 millimeters, which may feel unstable for anyone who struggles with balance.
TESTER NOTES: "The shoe felt supportive while standing for long periods of time (like at a concert) as well as when walking around a city," noted one consumer tester who tried the Ghost 15. One of our testers with chronic foot pain said she usually finds "no shoes comfortable to wear, but these are amazing."
The sneakers got high marks across the board for cushioning, support, and traction, with one tester saying it "didn't even feel like I was running on pavement while wearing these."
RELATED: Brooks Ghost 18 Review
| Size range | 5–13 with narrow, wide, and extra wide sizing |
| Weight per shoe | 9 oz |
| Heel drop | 10 mm |
| Colors | 10 options |
Pros
- Stretchy upper material
- Easy to slip on and off
- Super-lightweight feel
Cons
- Not all testers liked their appearance
Not only are these Tiosebon sneakers by far the most affordable shoes in our roundup, starting at $20, but they also have tens of thousands of Amazon reviews. Medical experts we interviewed like how lightweight they are (about 6 ounces per shoe). They are completely lace-free and have a stretchy knit upper with a sock-like fit, so you can easily slip the shoes on and off.
Because these shoes don't offer as much support and stability as other featured sneakers, they're not well-suited for vigorous exercise. When I tested these shoes, I loved the easy slip-on design, perfect for commuting or quick errands—and the airy upper that never felt sweaty. I will say they were a bit narrow on my foot and would've fit better if they had laces.
TESTER NOTES: Our consumer testers raved about the cushioning. One tester said, "They didn't look like clunky orthopedic shoes, but they felt as if they were padded with 4 inches of memory foam." Testers didn’t rate the appearance as highly as other styles, though.
RELATED: The Best Slip-On Shoes for Women
| Size range | 5–13 (regular and wide) |
| Weight per shoe | 6.07 oz |
| Heel drop | Not listed |
| Colors | 32 |
Pros
- Designed to alleviate feet, knee, and hip pain
- Lightweight cushioning
- Breathable fabric helps limit sweaty feet
Cons
- May feel too stiff for some
For ultimate support, the Brooks Adrenaline series not only has arch support built in, but it also offers a supportive design to help alleviate pressure on your feet, knees, and hips. The shoes feature lightweight cushioning in the midsole and a breathable mesh upper to encourage airflow and help minimize sweaty feet.
When I was experiencing foot pain, I relied on my pair of Adrenaline GTS 23 (a previous version), which offered snug support throughout the shoe and was even comfortable during long distances. Because of the support features, it's a stiffer shoe. Looks-wise, I prefer the appearance of the Ghost shoes more.
TESTER NOTES One tester, who is a registered nurse, tried the Brooks Adrenaline GTS 23 and experienced no arch pain after a shift, which tends to happen with other shoe styles. The "shoes were also breathable, and my feet did not sweat or start to swell," they reported, giving perfect scores across categories including support, cushion, fit, and appearance.
A previous model of the Brooks Adrenaline GTS 23 is pictured here.
RELATED: The Best Brooks Running Shoes
Features at a Glance
| Size range | 5–13 with narrow, wide and extra-wide sizing |
| Weight per shoe | 9.5 oz |
| Heel drop | 10 mm |
| Colors | 14 |
Pros
- Slip-on design
- Great for walking and workouts
- Lightweight material
Cons
- Less cushioning
Weighing around 6.3 ounces per shoe, these New Balance sneakers are among the lightest we tested, and they were popular with our testers and experts. As a cross-trainer shoe, they're great to wear during both walks and workouts.
Constructed with mesh at the front of the shoe, these sneakers allow a lot of freedom of movement, which podiatrists especially liked. The slip-on design features a tongue that stays put for easy on/off, making this a great commuter shoe too. We found that this shoe has a thinner midsole compared with other picks, which allows for quicker movement but offers less cushioning.
TESTER NOTES: Impressed by the comfort straight out of the box, one tester said, "Right when I put them on, they started molding to my feet." Giving high marks across the board for cushioning and comfort, testers unanimously said they would continue wearing these shoes. Testers credited the front mesh for making the shoes breathable and comfortable over bunions.
RELATED: The Best New Balance Shoes
| Size range | 5–12 (regular and wide) |
| Weight per shoe | 6.3 oz |
| Heel drop | Not listed |
| Colors | 27 |
Pros
- Received perfect scores for cushioning and support from testers
- Trend-forward design details
- Created specifically for a woman's foot shape
Cons
- Made with less durable materials
Rykä is a popular brand for women's sneakers since it designs shoes specifically for the shape of women's feet. The podiatrists we consulted appreciated that the shoe offered good mobility with soft cushioning—great for walking and fitness classes alike. We liked the segmented outsole for traction on all types of walks, but noted that the foam didn't appear as durable as other styles.
TESTER NOTES: One tester highlighted "how lightweight and breathable these were," and our panel of testers gave these shoes perfect scores for cushioning and support. One tester even said she felt like she was "walking on clouds." Unlike other walking shoes testers had tried, several called this pair "sleek" and "stylish."
| Size range | 5–11 (regular and wide) |
| Weight per shoe | 8.7 oz |
| Heel drop | 11 mm |
| Colors | 14 |
Pros
- Versatile shoe, ideal for everyday wear and runs too
- Roomy toe box for wider feet
- Springy foam
Cons
- Some testers found the thick cushioning a little bulky
An overly cramped toe box can cause intense foot pain when you have wide feet. These New Balance sneakers are available in both wide and extra-wide sizing to ensure a proper fit without crowding. With a flexible knit upper, these shoes can comfortably accommodate bunions as well. Sports medicine physician Jordan Metzl, M.D. appreciated New Balance's shoes' excellent construction and thought they would be a good fit for people of all ages and with different fitness routines.
TESTER NOTES: Testers gave these shoes perfect scores for fit, comfort, and cushioning after logging more than 60 hours working out in this style. One tester called this pair "very lightweight and breathable," and another said, "I find myself reaching for this pair over all of my other running and walking shoes whenever I leave my home."
Testers especially liked the cushioning foam, but some felt these shoes were a bit clunky. "I felt like it gave me a boost on long walks and hill work," commented one tester. "My feet felt less tired, and it definitely gives a spring to the step."
RELATED: The Best Shoes for Bunions, According to Podiatrists
Features at a Glance
| Size range | 5–13 (regular, narrow, wide and extra-wide) |
| Weight per shoe | 9.2 oz |
| Heel drop | 6 mm |
| Colors | 8 |
Pros
- Unparalleled cushioning
- Supportive
- Versatile
Cons
- On the bulkier side
The thick cushioning on this pair from HOKA can seem intimidating at first, but it's a game-changer if you're walking long distances or recovering from an injury. When I walk in my HOKA Bondi 8 shoes (the previous version), my knees feel supported, and there's less pressure on my joints. The thick cushioning means these shoes are a bit bulkier, and I found them to sometimes provide less stability, especially when on uneven terrain.
HOKA recently launched an updated Bondi 9 (the 8 is on the left while the 9 is on the right). The new style is a bit thicker while being lighter in weight.
TESTER NOTES: "There's a nice balance between comfort and support," noted one tester. "They feel plush yet structured on my feet." She especially liked that her feet didn't feel fatigued after being on her feet all day. When we interviewed avid walkers, many said the HOKA sneakers' cushioning is unparalleled, but many wished they were more affordable.
RELATED: The Best HOKA Shoes
Pros
- Adjustable strap for secure fit
- Ideal for travel, according to testers
- Contoured footbed for arch support
Cons
- Toes aren’t protected from debris on trails
These supportive sandals feature a contoured footbed for arch support and heel stability. You can adjust the ankle strap to ensure a tight fit, and the rugged outsole offers grippy traction on all terrain, including wet surfaces. These are available only in whole sizes—the brand recommends sizing down if you’re in between.
I have high arches and appreciate that this pair's firm foam helps keep them supported. The firmer foam is less bouncy than other foam sandals I've tried. I even wore them on a vacation in Spain and loved that I could wear them at the beach, then dress them up later for a nicer dinner. The simple design worked for all occasions, making them a great vacation sandal.
TESTER NOTES: Our consumer testers traveled all over the world with these sandals and said they were comfortable on varying terrain. “The arch support is next-level.” Editorial Commerce Editor Isabella Cavallo loved wearing these shoes after hikes all summer long, when walking through rivers, and during beach trips. "These shoes had great traction when I walked on slippery rocks along a river on my way to a natural hot spring in New Mexico," Cavallo shared. "I also love these sandals as water shoes for swimming at rocky beaches or lakes." The shoes lack a covered toe box, so feet may be exposed to debris.
Pros
- Top scores for comfort
- Hands-free slip-on design
- Great for casual use
Cons
- May not offer the best support or stability
Kizik designs slip-on shoes that are easier to step into without having to adjust or pull them on with your hands. They feature a flexible back heel that immediately returns to its original shape after you step into the shoe—no untying or adjusting necessary.
I can confirm these sneakers perform as advertised—my foot perfectly fit inside the shoe after I stepped on the back silicone cage. No adjustment is needed. I keep the shoes by my door to quickly slip on for dog walks and often wear them while running errands. Note that they don't offer as much support or stability as some of the other shoes on our list.
TESTER NOTES: The Athens sneakers scored well among testers for cushion and comfort. "I've been wearing them for weeks, and I expected the heel to cave in and the slip-on to get harder, but that didn't happen," reported one tester. Another added that they appreciated the simple design that didn't have obvious branding, but there were mixed reviews on the appearance of the shoe.
READ OUR FULL REVIEW: Kizik Slip-On Sneakers
How we test walking shoes
In our most recent round of evaluations, we tested more than 50 different styles of walking shoes. We cut sneakers in half (as pictured), so podiatrists and other footwear experts can review the shoes. Podiatrists and sports medicine physicians analyze the shoe's construction, rating the shoe's arch support, cushioning, control, and even the longevity of the materials.
We send shoes to consumer testers with a range of shoe sizes and foot shapes. Before giving feedback, testers walked for at least two hours on sidewalks, treadmills, and mixed terrain. In total, testers walked for more than 500 hours while evaluating the shoes.
When evaluating walking shoes, our experts consider:
✔️ Comfort: How the shoes feel on your feet is the most important thing. Therefore, we rate comfort highly when analyzing testers' feedback, noting in particular the comfort of the footbed, tongue, and ankle opening.
✔️ Support: The right footbed helps keep your feet properly supported while on the move, reducing strain on your arches. Testers gave extensive feedback and fit notes on each pair's arch support.
✔️ Weight: In the Lab, we weighed each shoe to nix overly heavy styles.
✔️ Construction: After sawing each shoe in half, podiatrists and other footwear experts reviewed the inner construction and foam to find the most supportive styles.
How to choose the best walking shoes
When trying on walking shoes, here are the best steps to take to help ensure you find a winning pair:
✔️ Discuss concerns with your podiatrist. If you are recovering from an injury or have consistent foot pain, we recommend discussing which shoes are best suited for your feet with a podiatrist or an orthopedist to help you find the most comfortable pair
✔️ Pick them up before trying them on. Avoid heavy styles that will bog you down. One exception: If you have flat feet and need more support, a more substantial shoe might be preferable to offer sufficient control.
✔️ Give the shoe a twist. Emily Splichal, D.P.M suggests twisting the sneaker as if you're wringing out a towel. Our experts recommend styles with more twistability if you can handle it. It helps you develop stronger muscles from your feet to your glutes.
✔️ Try on as many styles as possible. There’s no one-size-fits-all shoe. Each brand—and even each style—varies in sizing and fit, which can have a big impact on your foot.
✔️ Find the right fit. Wiggle your toes to make sure the shoes aren't too tight, and walk a few laps around the store so you can avoid shoes that pinch or squeeze your feet. If you have any existing foot pain, Dr. Metzl suggests going with the pair that "makes the pain go away when you're walking around the store," as that's a good indicator you've found a good shoe for you.
✔️ Choose comfort over everything else. Dr. Metzl stresses that comfort is key. Regardless of the product claims, you should be "as objective as you can for support and comfort." And trust your instincts—your feet will know which shoe is right. If your toes feel cramped or your heels are rubbing on the backs while you're testing the shoes, ditch them. It'll only get worse the more you walk in them.
Terms to know when shopping for walking shoes
Sneaker terminology can be confusing, so it's hard to know what actually matters when you're shopping. Some of these keywords might be important to some shoppers and not to others. Below, our experts explain all of the main walking shoe terms so you know what to look for before you buy:
Heel drop refers to the difference in the height of the midsole at your heel and at the ball of your foot. Most walking shoes tend to have a lower heel drop (around 4 to 8 millimeters) that is more like being barefoot, while running shoes have a larger difference (10+ millimeters). It comes down to personal preference, so check out your current pair of shoes and measure the heel drop to see what you like or dislike. Foot and ankle surgeon A. Holly Johnson, M.D. advises that for most people, "no major heel drop" is best for walking shoes, especially if you are older or struggle with balance.
Pronation is when your ankle leans inward, and supination is when your ankle leans outward. Ideally, everyone's ankles would have neutral alignment, but many people are pronators or supinators. Some styles are designed specifically for each type of ankle alignment, but many are for neutral alignment.
Surface types may be listed for the shoes, which refers to where the sneakers can be worn: road, track, treadmill, trail, etc. This is most important for trail shoes to ensure that the outsole has proper traction to help keep you safe.
Cushioning can vary immensely for different walking shoe styles. Dr. Johnson says that thick cushioning can help "lessen impact per step and absorb impact." She also finds that cushioning for the arches "helps with flat feet and overpronators to keep the foot supported." But too much cushioning can feel bulky, so "you can feel unbalanced." Thick-cushioned shoes are heavier, too. Generally, very cushioned walking shoes are best for extreme long-distance walkers and people with specific injuries who need more support.
Can you wear running shoes while going for a walk?
Generally, yes, the same shoes you love to wear while running can also be worn on a walk. Walking and running shoes can include different design features, but some styles are intended for both activities. Therefore, it's most important that the shoe is comfortable and supportive on your foot when walking for exercise. Running shoes tend to have more control to brace for impact on the sole, and walking shoes have a bit more flex and bend. Splichal recommends running only in running sneakers, especially ones with more cushioning for long-distance running.
Dr. Johnson found that sometimes the only difference between a brand's running shoe and walking shoe is marketing. "If the shoe is comfortable, it is the right shoe for you," she says.
How often should I replace my walking shoes?
It depends on how often you wear them, how many miles you cover, and the type of surfaces you are walking on. A pair of quality walking shoes should last for about 300–500 miles of wear, which equates to about 6 months to a year of regular use. If you notice any tearing, changes in support, or smoothing of the outsole, it is time to replace them. Any change in feel is a good indicator that you need a new pair.
Why trust Good Housekeeping?
The Good Housekeeping Institute Textiles Lab has been a leading expert on footwear for decades.
Emma Seymour is the associate director of the Textiles, Apparel, and Paper Lab. She has overseen Lab and consumer tests for a variety of footwear categories, including the walking shoes above, running shoes, and hiking shoes. With a degree in fiber science and apparel design from Cornell University, she has extensive research experience, particularly focused on athletic wear. In addition to her product quality expertise, she is an avid walker who loves walking for exercise and has even walked the full length of Manhattan multiple times.
For this story, she also spoke to the following experts:
- Jordan Metzl, M.D., is a sports medicine physician at the Hospital for Special Surgery in New York City.
- Emily Splichal, D.P.M. is a podiatrist at the Center for Functional and Regenerative Podiatric Medicine in Chandler, Arizona.
- A. Holly Johnson, M.D., is a foot and ankle surgeon at the Hospital for Special Surgery in New York City and a team physician for the New York Liberty WNBA basketball team.
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