Most of us walk every day, whether “hot girl” or not, but how much strain does it put on our bodies? If you’ve ever walked a long distance in the wrong shoes, you already know the answer.
We’ve certainly been there: over the years, we’ve walked countless miles around our city and to new vacation destinations. And on more than one occasion, we’ve walked out the door without thinking much about our shoes, only to regret it hours later.
Good walking shoes, on the other hand, can keep you moving throughout the day without causing an ache or blister. To assist you in finding the best, we combed through our (prolific) inventory of footwear stories and consulted several experts, including podiatrists, physical therapists, and experienced hikers, to compile a list of the boots, sneakers, loafers, and flats that will keep your feet comfortable for hours on end. Continue reading to find out which are the best walking shoes available today.
Best Shoes For Women
- Brooks Ghost 15
- Skechers GOwalk Joy
- Hoka Arahi 7
- Vasque Breeze LT Low NTX Hiking Shoes
- New Balance Fresh Foam X 880v13
- Chaco Z/1 Classic
- Camper Niki Boots
Brooks Ghost 15
This pair tops our list of the best walking shoes because it’s the most adaptable option for different types of walkers and those looking for a supportive, multi-purpose sneaker. It’s extremely stable, with a grippy outsole, making it ideal for both speed walks and leisurely strolls on smooth and uneven terrain. If you engage in higher-impact aerobic activities like running, the cushioned EVA foam midsole absorbs shock during heel strike. Overall, the Brooks Ghost is comfortable for almost any activity.
The Ghost features a curved insole to reduce arch stress, which is ideal if you have sore tendons, are flat-footed, or stand for long periods of time. The Ghost also has a firm heel counter (the part of the shoe that wraps around the back of your ankle) to keep the foot in place and prevent over-pronation, also known as ankle rolling. Note that I tested version 14 of this shoe, but version 15 is the most recent. The Ghost has a 12 mm heel drop, which is slightly higher than the standard 10mm for running sneakers.
These shoes have a 4.25 cm heel stack (height) and a weight of 9.1 ounces, which is in the middle of the pack when compared to other sneakers I tested: this is a moderately cushioned shoe, which is good because extra padding can reduce stability.
Skechers GOwalk Joy
The Skechers Women’s GOwalk Joy is a great choice if you’re looking for a comfortable and affordable walking shoe. These shoes are light and have a breathable mesh upper, making them perfect for long walks or everyday wear. The cushioned midsole offers good support and absorbs shock well, so your feet won’t feel tired even after walking a lot. Plus, the Goga Max insole adds extra cushioning, making each step feel soft and comfortable. The slip-on design with elastic panels means you can easily put them on and take them off, which is super convenient if you’re always in a hurry.
Even though they’re budget-friendly, the GOwalk Joy shoes still look stylish and are built to last. They come in lots of colors and designs, so you can find a pair that matches your style. The outsole has a good grip, which helps you stay stable on different surfaces. All in all, the Skechers Women’s GOwalk Joy offers great comfort and quality without breaking the bank, making them a fantastic option for anyone looking to save money without sacrificing comfort.
Hoka Arahi 7
The Hoka Arahi 7, with its mild stability, really shines for those who favor a snug upper alongside a firm midsole. Despite its incredibly comfy knit upper and solid stability, it’s not a shoe for everyone—it’s tailored for specific runners. We found that this version has a unique ride and feel, setting it apart from previous Arahis, so don’t expect an automatic match—we advise being ready for something different!
The Hoka Arahi 7, while not a bad shoe, is definitely tailored for a specific runner profile. We noticed that those requiring ample toe room might find this shoe restrictive. For a roomier fit, we suggest the Brooks Adrenalite GTS 23 as a better alternative.
PROS:
- Premium and comfy upper
- Still surprisingly light
- Subtle yet effective stability features
- Versatile for all footstrikes
- Reasonably priced
- Excellent fit and security
- Plush tongue
- Cushioned
Cons:
- Limited breathability
- Low energy return
- Slightly snug fit
Vasque Breeze LT Low NTX Hiking Shoes
Right out of the box, the Vasque Breeze LT NTX are stiff. A firm sole and ankle collar provides the wearer with confidence in each step on rocky, wet, or uneven terrain. However, while this sturdiness provides support, it doesn’t allow a lot of give if you have wider feet or they tend to swell. There is a break in period with these shoes. I would recommend wearing them around for a couple days before taking a long hike.
If your walks are taking you off-road (or off-sidewalk), a walking shoe designed for trekking through uneven terrain may be best. These low-top hiking shoes are designed specifically for walking and are our favorite women’s hiking shoes.
New Balance Fresh Foam X 880v13
Similar to other sneakers, the Fresh Foam are part of a bestselling collection that’s continually updated and revamped each year. The 880v13 model is made with a 3% bio-based foam, derived from renewal resources, which is helpful for reducing the impact on the environment, especially since sneakers are an item that you have to frequently replace once they have worn out.
If you have arch issues, or flat feet, the 880v13 is padded to deliver support in that area, with a 10 millimeter heel drop that alleviates pressure so your foot is on an include, and not resting in a flat position all day. The uppers are made from a breathable mesh, which ensures your feet don’t overheat in these sneakers. I found them airy, lightweight and very responsive during my longest walks. The only negative is that collar, or opening of the shoe where your foot slides in, comes up quite high on the foot, which can cause some rubbing on me. However, wearing 880v13 with regular low ankle socks (as opposed to no-show socks) helped solve that problem.
Chaco Z/1 Classic
The Chaco Z/1 Classic is an undeniably popular sandal, and for good reason. It’s stylish, comfortable, and provides a very supportive platform that is great for a variety of activities. The Z/1 Classic features a high arch and the stiffest sole material found in the Chaco family. The webbing and contoured footbed of the Z/1 Classic is ergonomic and comfortable enough for long days on the trail. With a bomber reputation and plenty of traction and support, hikers looking for all-around performance and excellent durability can’t go wrong with this sandal.
The American Podiatric Medical Association has recognized every model in the Z/1 series for promoting foot health. Undoubtedly, the comfort and support they provide for walking comes at least partly from their simple design. Matt Schonwald, a certified ski-mountaineering and avalanche guide and founder of BC Adventure Guides, recommends the Chacos specifically for their lack of extra features: “I do not like bells and whistles — they usually cause blisters, fall apart, or just underperform.” Paul Ronto of RunRepeat says the grippy sole is heavy duty and dense, giving you “confidence that your feet will grip on to the slickest surfaces.”
Camper Niki Boots
The Camper Niki Boots are a great pick for women who want stylish and comfortable shoes. These boots look trendy and are made with high-quality materials, making them both fashionable and durable. You can wear them with jeans for a casual look or with a dress for a more dressed-up outfit. They add a touch of style to anything you wear.
What’s even better is that these boots are super comfortable, making them perfect for walking. They have cushioned insoles that support your feet and sturdy outsoles that provide good grip and stability. Even though they are well-made and strong, they’re also lightweight, so your feet won’t get tired easily. Overall, the Camper Niki Boots are a smart choice if you want shoes that look and feel good all day long.