11 best walking shoes for women, recommended by experts
Featured in this article
Whether you’re on your feet all day at work or exploring a new city on holiday, the best walking shoes for women can make all the difference. Fortunately, there are plenty of comfortable sandals, fashion trainers, flats, and even heels designed to absorb impact, adapt to your stride, and ease pressure on your joints.
The ones you choose depend on your feet — maybe you’re managing plantar fasciitis, dealing with flat feet that need extra arch support, or your high arches could benefit from ample cushioning. To help you find the right pair for you, we consulted podiatrists, marathoners, medical professionals who work long shifts, and travel writers who've done the miles (literally) in their favourite pairs, as well as putting them to the test ourselves.
Below, find the best walking shoes for women and footwear so comfortable that you’ll forget you’re wearing any at all. See also: The best walking sandals for women and the best walking boots for women.
How we tested walking shoes
What we looked for
To ensure we recommend only the best walking shoes, we reached out to podiatrists, Glamour contributors, runners, and travel writers to share their top picks for walking shoes that perform well on various terrains. Our reviewers had a diversity of feet types and evaluated shoes based on the following key criteria:
- Support: Shoes were evaluated based on how well they aligned with different arch types and provided structure, important especially for those who overpronate.
- Comfort: Reviewers looked for shoes with adequate cushioning in the heel and midsole, ensuring a satisfying fit for long periods of walking without fatigue.
- Design: Reviewers looked for shoes with a curved or rocker-style sole to encourage a smoother stride and help stabilise gait. Heel cushioning was also considered to ensure additional shock absorption during walking.
- Materials: Shoes with breathable mesh uppers were preferred for warmer weather, while leather or suede options were considered for those needing more protection in cooler climates.
- Versatility: The ability of shoes to perform well in both hiking and running contexts was evaluated, with an emphasis on lightweight, supportive shoes that also work for everyday wear.
- Durability: Shoes were tested for traction, especially for those who walk on pavement or trails. A solid tread pattern was considered essential for preventing slips and extending the life of the shoes.
- APMA Seal of Acceptance: Shoes that met the standards for foot health set by the American Podiatric Medical Association (APMA) were given extra consideration, ensuring they supported overall well-being during extended wear.
Courtesy of brandBest Walking Shoe Overall: Hoka Clifton 10
- Pros: Supportive and plush but not too stiff; lightweight; secure upper that’s not too rigid; has APMA Seal of Acceptance.
- Cons: May feel too thick and cushiony for anyone used to flatter, more minimalist styles.
Unless you live under a sneaker-less rock (hey, it’s possible), you’ve probably spotted all sorts of people passing you on the street, at the gym, or at the grocery store sporting Hoka walking shoes with their hefty heel heights (the thickness of the sole, measured from the ground up to the point where the foot sits).
Podiatrists consistently recommend the brand’s footwear for comfortable shoes, including the latest Clifton 10. “It has won the American Podiatric Medical Association (APMA) Seal of Acceptance multiple times,” says Jason Gold, DPM, a board-certified podiatrist with Foot, Ankle & Leg Vein Center in Boynton Beach, Florida. Despite the sneaker’s ample arch support and layers of cushioning, it’s impressively lightweight, which allows you to walk for longer periods with less stress and strain on the musculoskeletal system of the lower extremity, says Gold. This 10th iteration of the style now has an 8-mm heel stack (instead of the 5 mm of earlier models) that supports the foot’s natural rocking motion, helping you move further without expending as much pressure and energy.
“I walk my puppy a minimum of three miles per weekday and up to seven on the weekend. No matter our distance, the Hoka Clifton is my go-to shoe for walking her because the foam insole cradles my foot, rather than allowing the weight of my foot to sink in like my body on a memory foam mattress,” says Glamour contributor Gabrielle Kassel. “I also love that slim profile of the upper, which keeps my foot secure without feeling too snug. What sets it apart from the earlier models I’ve worn is how much va-va-voom I get per step. My high-energy border collie loves how much faster our walking pace has been!”
(It’s worth noting that, if the Clifton 10 is low on sizes, the Hoka Bondi 9 is another great option; however, experts prefer the Clifton because it’s “much lighter in weight in comparison, which may make it a more suitable, comfortable choice for many walkers,” says Mohammad Rimawi, DMP, a board-certified podiatrist with Manhattan Foot Specialists in New York City.)
Type: Sneaker | Heel drop: 8mm | Shoe weight: 227g | Cushioning: Maximum | Width Options: Regular, wide | Closure type: Lace-up | Sizes: UK 3-10 | Colours: 14 | APMA Seal of Acceptance: Yes.
Save when you shop for the best walking shoes for women with these Hoka discount codes at checkout.
Best On-Trend Walking Shoes For Women: Square-Toe Mary-Jane (Margot Mary-Jane)
- Pros: On-trend and stylish; available in wide-fit (only some colours, though); made from plastic bottles; machine washable.
- Cons: Quite expensive; keep selling out.
The beloved Mary-Jane has been updated with an adjustable instep strap for a comfy, customisable fit courtesy of Vivaia. Their classic design pairs perfectly with casual-wear or formalwear, making them a versatile option for any occasion. Dress them up for brunch with the girls (and shopping after, obviously) or wear them to the office.
Type: Flat | Heel drop: 0.4inch | Heel height: 1cm | Cushioning: Artemisia Argyi herbal insole | Sizes: UK 2.5-8.5 | Width Option: Regular, wide | Closure type: Buckle | Colours: 17.
Best Walking Shoe for Plantar Fasciitis: On Cloudpulse
- Pros: Minimalist style; wide toe box gives extra stability; grippy rubber sole.
- Cons: May not feel cushy enough for some (like someone with flatter feet).
Swiss-based On shoes have been trendy for a few years now, and they’re especially appealing if you’re dealing with plantar fasciitis or need extra heel stability. Unlike Hokas and other ultra-cushioned walking shoes, On styles have a lower stack height but still offer a deep heel cup and solid arch support to help relieve pressure on the plantar fascia.
Several of our contributors love On Cloudpulse’s style. “The wide toe box gives me plenty of space to feel grounded in any activity, with really nice support and shock absorption, and the stiff heel counter keeps my foot locked in,” says Glamour contributor Jennifer Heimlich. Its sleeker body makes them ideal for all-day treks across cobblestones in new cities—without adding bulk to your baggage.
“When I first tried this shoe, I had to spend some time getting used to the structured feel, but I realised that it does have great heel support and it’s now my go-to shoe for the gym,” says Glamour contributor Alex Frost. “The Cloudpulse in particular has specific lateral support features, making you feel more stable as you move side to side, something I do in my fitness class. So keep these in mind if you want a more minimalist feel without the massive bulk and cushioning vibes—plus, they have some super-cute colours.”
Type: Sneaker | Heel drop: 8mm | Shoe weight: 263g | Cushioning: Moderate | Sizes: UK 3-9 | Width Option: Regular | Closure type: Lace-up | Colours: 4.
Save when you shop for the best walking shoes for women, including On Cloud Running shoes, with these Free People discount codes at checkout.
.png)
Courtesy of brandBest Walking Sandal: Birkenstock Arizona Big Buckle Oiled Leather
- Pros: Footbed moulds to sole; stylish gold buckles; great for walking across stone, sand, etc.; easy slip-on design.
- Cons: Break-in period needed.
Ettore Vulcano, MD, an orthopaedic surgeon specialising in foot and ankle issues at Mount Sinai in New York City, recommends these Birk slides to patients. “They don’t bend too much, and are nice and sturdy,” he says. They’re a perennial favourite comfortable walking sandal among Glamour editors and contributors, too, because of how their cork footbeds contour and cradle your foot over time—and how cute they are, especially with glitzy gold buckles like these. “I’ve worn Birkenstocks since I was a kid,” says Glamour’s Griggs. “They break in quickly and mould to my wide, flat feet. Slipping one on feels like such relief, and I’ve worn them across various environments in the world.”
“As a writer, I often go on short trips for work and these Birkenstocks will be the only shoes I bring with me,” says freelance writer Melissa Kravitz Hoeffner. “I can comfortably wear them for miles of walking in cities, on easy hikes, on beach walks, and on the plane with socks. They match with pretty much every outfit, and they’ll serve as my going-out shoes too. I’ve worn them for a week in Paris, all over California, and they’re my go-tos at home in New York. I’m a big walker and usually get the bottoms replaced at my local cobbler’s once or twice a year. I’ve bought these Arizonas for over a decade and replace them every few years.”
Type: Sandal | Heel drop: 0mm | Shoe weight: 255g | Cushioning: Minimal | Sizes: UK 3-8 | Width Option: Regular, narrow, wide | Closure type: Slide-on (with adjustable buckles) | Colours: 11.
Save when you shop for the best walking shoes for women with these Office discount codes at checkout.
.png)
Best Walking Shoe for Flat Feet: Asics Gel-Nimbus 27
- Pros: Shock-absorbing-gel heel cushioning eases pain; has narrow and wide sizing; has APMA Seal of Acceptance.
- Cons: Rather bulky.
“Asics’s gel cushioning is amazing for shock absorption, which really helps if your plantar fasciitis pain flares up from impact,” says Sean Ormond, MD, a dual board-certified physician in anaesthesiology and interventional pain management, who recommends the Nimbus 27 as a walking shoe for flat feet (or for anyone who underpronates, as it has extra arch support and its design softens the landing of the outer side of the heel as it hits the ground). The APMA–approved running sneaker has a soft, stretchy tongue that doesn’t dig into the top of the foot when you move, and Shital Sharma, DPM, CEO, a board-certified foot and ankle surgeon, appreciates that you can easily slot a custom insole or orthotic insert into these shoes.
Type: Sneaker | Heel drop: 8mm | Shoe weight: 265g | Cushioning: Maximum | Width options: Regular | Closure type: Lace-up | Sizes: UK 4-9 | Colours: 7.
- Julia Eskins
Best Walking Shoes For Summer: Chaco Women's Zx2 Classic Sandal
- Pros: Grippy, rubber soles absorb shock; great for walking and hiking; waterproof.
- Cons: Adjustable strap may drag on ground.
“Chacos are built to withstand the wilderness, thanks to their heavy rubber soles, durable webbing, and snug heel straps,” says Glamour commerce editor Jake Henry Smith. “But while they excel as sporty hiking sandals, they aren’t just great for long walks on the trail; I love their crunchy, utilitarian charm for walking around New York too.” The Z/1 Rapid Pro has a slimmer, lighter profile than some of Chaco’s other styles, so it’s comfy enough to trek in all day. Its contoured footbed cushions the arch to reduce fatigue, while adjustable straps keep the shoe snugly on the foot.
“The Z/1 Rapid Pro Sandals are my go-to for water-based adventures, from kayaking to hikes with river crossings, because they’re waterproof and grippy,” says travel journalist Julia Eskins. “The company was founded by a rafting guide, which the design of the sandals reflects. I also appreciate that the company offers a repair program that covers things like buckle replacements and resoling, which helps increase the lifespan of the sandals (and keeps them out of landfills).”
Type: Sandal | Heel drop: 0mm | Shoe weight: 368g | Cushioning: Moderate | Sizes: UK 3-10 | Width Option: Regular, wide | Closure type: Adjustable strap with buckle | Colours: 5.
Best Walking Shoe for Wide Feet: New Balance 530
- Pros: Casual, timeless design; wide toe box; has APMA Seal of Acceptance.
- Cons: Limited colourways.
Bruce Pinker, DPM, a foot and ankle surgeon at Progressive Footcare in New York City, says that people with wide feet need to be careful to seek out a pair of shoes with enough room in the forefoot “to prevent cramping of the toes.” These editor- and Taylor Swift–approved New Balance shoes offer plenty of breathing room for all foot shapes and sizes, even if you’ve got bunions. The cushioning is balanced, supportive, and very durable. We also like that they quite literally go with everything: Pair them with your favorite white jeans or flared leggings—either way you’ll look great.
“When I say I’ve lived in my New Balance 530s for the past 18 months, you best believe I can count on one hand the number of outings I’ve been on without them,” says Glamour senior European commerce editor Sophie Cockett. “I’ve got them in two colours—the silver-navy colourway and the powder blue—and I find they go with everything. Jeans, my go-to tailored trousers, leggings. I even wear them to the gym when I’m doing weights or upper-body work.”
For a more cushioned New Balance option, consider the Fresh Foam 1080s, which Glamour contributor and marathoner Jenny McCoy swears by for both long-distance running and casual neighbourhood strolling.
Type: Sneaker | Cushioning: Maximum | Sizes: UK 3.5-10.5 | Width options: Regular | Closure type: Lace-up | Colours: 1.
Save when you shop for the best walking shoes for women, including breathable mesh upper styles and other top picks with these New Balance discount codes at checkout.
.png)
Courtesy of brandBest Flats for Walking: Vionic Alameda Flats
- Pros: Available in three widths; contoured footbed aligns the foot; impressive shock absorption; has APMA Seal of Acceptance.
- Cons: Not as supportive as a sneaker (but above average for a flat).
Mary Janes are one of the biggest shoe trends of 2025 — they have a timeless silhouette and are versatile to style with denim and dresses. But like most flat shoes, they’re not usually a popular option for foot health. This isn’t the case with Vionic’s Alameda ballet flat, which Casey Ann Pidich, DPM, a podiatrist at NYU Bellevue Hospital, recommends for its arch support. “The shoe’s insole is designed to align the foot properly, reducing overpronation and alleviating strain on the plantar fascia,” she says. “The contoured footbed cradles the arch, providing consistent support that you won’t find in an average Mary Jane flat.” They’re stylish, come in three widths, and have an adjustable Velcro strap that makes them easy to take on and off.
Type: Flat | Heel drop: 0mm | Heel height: 0.25inch. | Cushioning: Minimal | Width options: Regular | Closure type: Adjustable Velcro strap | Sizes: UK 3-9 | Colours: 3.
.jpg)
.png)
- Courtesy of brand
- Hannah Singleton
Best Walking Shoe for All-Day Wear: Nike V2K Run
- Pros: Cushioned heel reduces impact on joints; on-trend design; versatile for multiple activities.
- Cons: Tongue may dig into foot; no wide sizing.
A shoe trend that we’re loving is chunky platform sneakers, especially 2000s-era silver ones that you can pair with white maxi skirts or floaty dresses. Apart from looking great, according to Suzanne C. Fuchs, DPM, board-certified podiatrist and sports-medicine specialist in Florida, the cushioning in the heel is essential in a good walking shoe because it helps reduce the impact on the feet and joints when you lace up for serious mileage. That’s particularly true if you suffer from a condition like plantar fasciitis.
“When I know I’ll be out and about all day but I want a sneaker that will look cute with my favourite wide-leg jeans, I wear my Nike V2K Runs. (I can’t get enough of the translucent and metallic overlay details!),” says Glamour contributor Hannah Singleton. “I’ve racked up almost 15 miles in one day in these, and my feet always feel fresh because the heel has plenty of cushion. They stand up to heavy wear and are versatile enough that I use them for light workouts too.” Bonus: Singleton says they’re both durable and versatile. “They stand up to heavy wear, and I use them for light workouts too.”
Type: Sneaker | Heel drop: 12.8mm | Shoe weight: 314g | Cushioning: Maximum | Width option: Regular | Closure type: Lace-up | Sizes: UK 2.5-10.5 | Colours: 1.
Best Lightweight Walking Sandal: Teva Original Universal Midform Chunky Sandals
- Pros: Under £70; tons of colours and patterns; quick-dry; grippy sole.
- Cons: No half or wide sizing; not cushy enough for some.
The Teva Originals are a popular choice for comfy, casual walks because of their soft footbed and flexible rubber soles. The Velcro straps make them super easy to adjust, and the smooth lining helps prevent rubbing or blisters. They’ve got a springy EVA foam midsole for just the right amount of bounce, and the recycled, colourful strap options are a nice touch.
“I own six pairs of Tevas (they’re under $100!), and these are my faves for everyday,” says Griggs. “They’re so much lighter-weight than any of my other walking shoes and sandals, and come in so many cute patterns and shades. My feet never feel the pound of the concrete in them. In the summer, I wear them everywhere, including to the beach in lieu of flip-flops. If you’re looking for something even more reinforced—for hiking, say—I also love the Teva Hurricane Xlt2, which has squishy, shock-absorbing layers.”
“I have been a die-hard Chaco fan for a decade, but these Teva Originals have taken the place of my daily walking-around sandals,” says Glamour contributor and gear tester Maggie Slepian. “They are comfortable and easy to adjust, and I love the textured foam footbed that feels both supportive and squishy. I have these in a fun ’80s-throwback strap pattern that adds a splash of colour to my outfits.”
Type: Sandal | Heel drop: 2.1mm | Shoe weight: 155g | Cushioning: Moderate | Sizes: UK 3-9 | Width Option: Regular | Closure type: Adjustable hook-and-loop straps | Colours: 3.
Save when you shop for a bestseller pair of walking shoes for women with these ASOS discount codes at checkout.
Best Barefoot Shoes: Gobi II Sneaker Premium Leather Womens
- Pros: Made with 98% natural materials with a 100% natural outsole; 100-day trial.
- Cons: Only a few half sizes; four colours but all neutral.
Made with 98% natural materials, the Gobi Sneaker Premium takes us one step closer to Vivobarefoot's mission of reaching 100% and creating fully biodegradable barefootwear.
The best part about these is that, although the shape from above somewhat gives them away, you wouldn't know they weren't just a normal trainer. From the side they look just as on-trend as adidas Sambas in our opinion.
Type: Sneaker | Heel drop: 0mm | Shoe weight: 307g | Cushioning: Everyday Cork Insole | Sizes: UK 2.5-9 | Width Option: Regular | Closure type: Lace-up | Colours: 4.
All your questions about walking shoes, answered
| Shoe | Best for | Pros | Cons | Price |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Best Overall: Hoka Clifton 10 | Standing all day; flat feet; plantar fasciitis; wide feet | Plush; lightweight; ample arch support | May feel too squishy | £140 |
| Best for Plantar Fasciitis: On Cloudpulse | Plantar fasciitis; arch support; travel; standing all day | Minimalist; wide toe box; grippy sole | May feel too flat for flat feet | £140 |
| Best for Flat Feet: Asics Gel-Nimbus 27 | Flat, wide feet; running | Shock-absorption on heel; has wide and narrow sizing | Bulky | £143.99 |
| Best for All-Day Wear: Nike V2K Run | Walking all day; gym workouts; plantar fasciitis | Cushioned heel; on-trend aesthetic | Tongue may dig into foot | £87 |
| Most Stylish: New Balance 530 | Wide feet; bunions; styling | Wide toe box; versatile design | Limited colours | £100 |
| Shoe | Best for | Pros | Cons | APMA Seal of Acceptance | Price |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Best Walking Sandal: Birkenstock Arizona Big Buckle Oiled Leather | Flat feet; walking all day | Footbeds mould to sole; easy slip-on design; stylish | Break-in period needed | No | £135 |
| Best Sandal for Hiking: Chaco Women's Zx2 Classic Sandal | Flat feet; arch support; hiking; walking | Grippy, shock-absorbing soles; waterproof | Strap may drag on ground | No | £80.22 |
| Best Lightweight Walking Sandal: Teva Original Universal Midform Chunky Sandals | Everyday walking; light arch support | Under £70; quick-dry | No half or wide sizing; may not feel cushy enough | No | £60 |
| Best Flats for Walking: Vionic Alameda Flats | Light everyday walking; arch support | Available in three widths; impressive shock-absorption; contoured footbed | Not as shock-absorbing as sneakers | Yes | £125 |
| Most fashionable flats for walking: Vivaia Square-Toe Mary-Jane (Margot Mary-Jane | Fashion | On-trend and stylish; available in wide-fit (only some colours, though); made from plastic bottles; machine washable. | Quite expensive; keep selling out. | No | £118.52 |
How to choose a walking shoe
First, figure out your foot type. Begin with the arches (the area between the ball of your foot and heel). Imagine stepping on wet paint—if you have a high arch, you’ll only see a little paint on your foot print; if you have a neutral arch, you’ll see paint on around half of your foot; if you have a low arch or flat feet, you’ll see paint on most of your sole. “The height of the arch affects the direction of how your foot rolls—or pronates—when walking,” says Katrina Manos, DPM, podiatrist at Westside Podiatry Group in Rochester, New York.
The shoe you choose depends on your foot type. “Walking shoes should support your foot’s natural mechanics while providing enough cushioning to absorb shock,” says Jacqueline Sutera, a board-certified podiatrist. Have flat feet? You likely tend to roll your ankles inward and will want to pick a relatively rigid shoe that cradles the foot and keeps it in place. Have neutral or high arches? You can get away with shoes that are a bit more flexible.
What’s heel drop?
Heel drop — also called “heel-to-toe drop” — is the difference in height between the heel and the forefoot of a shoe, usually measured in millimetres. For example, if the heel sits 24mm off the ground, and the forefoot is 14mm, the shoe has a 10mm drop.
Higher heel drops (8mm+): Shift more pressure to your knees and hips, and can be helpful if you’re prone to Achilles tightness or need extra heel-cushioning.
Moderate heel drops (6–8mm): Encourage a more natural stride and might work better if you land on your midfoot or forefoot. This range is ideal for heel-strikers who want moderate support without sacrificing a grounded feel.
Low to zero drops (0–4mm): Keep your heels and toes level, mimicking barefoot movement. They’re great if you have strong arches or land on your midfoot—but not ideal if you need more arch or heel support.
Meet our experts
- Katrina Manos, DPM, a board-certified podiatrist at Westside Podiatry Group in Rochester, New York.
- Jason Gold, DPM, a board-certified podiatrist with Foot, Ankle & Leg Vein Center in Boynton Beach, Florida.
- Mohammad Rimawi, DMP, a board-certified podiatrist with Manhattan Foot Specialists in New York City.
- Suzanne C. Fuchs, DPM, a board-certified podiatrist and sports-medicine specialist in Florida.
- Tara Parks, DPM, a podiatrist at Boulder Medical Center and marathoner.
- Sean Ormond, MD, a dual board-certified physician in anaesthesiology and interventional pain management.
- Shital Sharma, DPM, CEO, a board-certified foot and ankle surgeon.
- Jacqueline M. Sutera, DPM, a New York-based podiatrist who works with shoe-brand Vionic as a medical consultant.
- Bruce Pinker, DPM, a foot and ankle surgeon at Progressive Footcare in New York City.
- Ettore Vulcano, MD, an orthopaedic surgeon specialising in foot and ankle issues at Mount Sinai.
- Sara Shobin, a nurse practitioner at Intermountain Healthcare in Salt Lake City.
- Brooke Taylor, personal trainer and owner of Taylored Fitness NY.
A version of this article originally appeared on Glamour US.
