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10 Best Walking Shoes Women 2025 in the United States

#1

Winner

9.8  score

Brooks Women’s Ghost 16 Neutral Running Shoe - White/Grey/Estate Blue - 9.5 Medium

Fit: secure, seamless fit with 3D Print
Arch Support: neutral
Cushioning: soft, lightweight DNA Loft v3 foam
Breathability: engineered air mesh upper
Weight: 1.5 Pounds
Durability: RoadTack rubber outsole
Traction: RoadTack rubber outsole

Chosen by 1337 this week

Brooks Women’s Ghost Max 2 Neutral Running & Walking Shoe - Coconut Milk/Gray/Zephyr - 8.5 Medium

Fit: extra room for foot shapes, orthotics
Cushioning: maximum cushioning with thick soft foam
Breathability: limited breathability
Weight: not lightweight, heavier than minimalist shoes
Durability: rubber outer material and sole
Traction: solid traction with rubber outsole

On Women's Cloud 5 Sneakers, All White, 8 Medium US

Arch Support: not sufficient
Cushioning: good
Breathability: breathable mesh fabric
Weight: 3 pounds
Durability: less durable than rugged shoes
Traction: decent

adidas Women's VL Court 3.0 Sneaker

Fit: run large, size down by half
Arch Support: may lack specialized arch support
Cushioning: lightweight cushioning by midsole
Breathability: may not offer best breathability
Weight: not as lightweight as others
Durability: resilience on various surfaces
Traction: traction on various surfaces

New Balance Women's 608 V5 Casual Comfort Cross Trainer, White/Light Blue, 8

Arch Support: internal midsole shank
Cushioning: PU foam, NB Soft Comfort Insert
Breathability: leather outer material
Weight: 278 grams (9.8 oz)
Durability: high-quality leather
Traction: rubber sole

Skechers Women's Go Walk Joy Sneaker-5Gen Cushioning, Air-Cooled GOGA Mat, Breathable Mesh Upper Sneaker, Black, 8

Arch Support: might lack
Cushioning: 5Gen midsole, Air Cooled Goga Mat
Breathability: breathable athletic mesh upper
Weight: lightweight
Durability: may not withstand long-term use
Traction: flexible traction outsole

New Balance Women's 574 Core Sneaker, Nimbus Cloud/White, 8.5 Wide

Fit: extended width
Cushioning: midsole cushioning with soft foam
Breathability: breathable mesh upper
Weight: moderate
Durability: solid
Traction: rubber outsole, decent traction

Skechers Women's Go Walk Flex Hands Free Slip-Ins-Grand Entry Sneaker, White, 8

Fit: good fit
Arch Support: may not provide adequate support
Cushioning: ULTRA GO cushioning, Memory Foam insole
Breathability: Memory Foam insole
Weight: lightweight
Durability: not as durable over time
Traction: concern on slick surfaces
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Our Top Picks

#1

Winner

Brooks Women’s Ghost 16 Neutral Running Shoe - White/Grey/Estate Blue - 9.5 Medium

Rating
9.8
Chosen by1,337
Fit
Arch Support
Cushioning

Most important from
4882 reviews

Fit
The fit accommodates wider feet exceptionally well, offering a little more room than traditional boots without compromising support.
Arch Support
Lightweight design combined with good arch support and non-slip soles makes them perfect for walking and everyday wear.
Cushioning
The cushioning is soft and plush, delivering a gentle underfoot feel that enhances comfort during both walking and running.
Breathability
Breathability keeps feet cool and dry, which is a noticeable improvement over heavier, less ventilated footwear options.
Weight
Lightweight design combined with good arch support and non-slip soles makes them perfect for walking and everyday wear.
Traction
Lightweight design combined with good arch support and non-slip soles makes them perfect for walking and everyday wear.

The Brooks Women’s Ghost 16 is a solid choice for women looking for a comfortable walking shoe that also works well for running and gym workouts. It features a secure and seamless fit thanks to the updated 3D Fit Print, which helps keep your foot comfortably in place. The shoe offers neutral arch support, making it suitable for those without specific foot issues needing extra correction. Its cushioning is soft and lightweight, using DNA Loft v3 foam that provides a gentle, smooth feel underfoot, which is great for long walks or runs without feeling heavy.

Breathability is well handled by the engineered air mesh upper, helping keep your feet cool and dry during activity. Weighing about 1.5 pounds, it’s reasonably light but not the lightest you can find. The RoadTack rubber outsole delivers good durability and traction, suitable for road surfaces and typical walking conditions, though it may not be the best for very rough or slippery trails. This shoe is also notable for being certified diabetic-friendly and has earned the APMA Seal of Acceptance, which means it’s designed with foot health in mind.

It offers a smooth transition from heel to toe, but people needing extra arch support or specialized stability might want to look for options better tailored to those needs. The Brooks Ghost 16 balances comfort, breathability, and reliable traction, making it a strong candidate for everyday walkers seeking a dependable, cushioned, and supportive shoe.

Rating
9.8
Chosen by1,337
Fit
Arch Support
Cushioning

Most important from
4882 reviews

Fit
The fit accommodates wider feet exceptionally well, offering a little more room than traditional boots without compromising support.
Arch Support
Lightweight design combined with good arch support and non-slip soles makes them perfect for walking and everyday wear.
Cushioning
The cushioning is soft and plush, delivering a gentle underfoot feel that enhances comfort during both walking and running.
Breathability
Breathability keeps feet cool and dry, which is a noticeable improvement over heavier, less ventilated footwear options.
Weight
Lightweight design combined with good arch support and non-slip soles makes them perfect for walking and everyday wear.
Traction
Lightweight design combined with good arch support and non-slip soles makes them perfect for walking and everyday wear.
#2

Brooks Women’s Ghost Max 2 Neutral Running & Walking Shoe - Coconut Milk/Gray/Zephyr - 8.5 Medium

Rating
9.6
Fit
Arch Support
Cushioning

Most important from
2358 reviews

Fit
The wide toe bed provides ample room, accommodating bunions and allowing feet to feel relaxed even during long shifts.
Arch Support
Offers exceptional support and cushioning that makes it ideal for those with plantar fasciitis or foot pain.
Cushioning
Offers exceptional support and cushioning that makes it ideal for those with plantar fasciitis or foot pain.
Durability
Built to last with strong durability; maintains support and looks nearly new even after months of daily use on varied terrain.

The Brooks Women’s Ghost Max 2 is a walking shoe designed for women who want maximum cushioning and a smooth, stable ride. It offers excellent protection with its thick, soft midsole foam that absorbs impact well, making it comfortable for long walks or runs. The shoe’s wide base and raised sidewalls provide good stability, helping keep your foot steady without feeling restrictive. It also has a unique design that supports smooth heel-to-toe movement, which can help prevent fatigue and reduce injury risk.

Fit-wise, it offers extra room to accommodate different foot shapes and orthotics, which is a plus if you need more space or custom inserts. While the material details mainly mention rubber for durability and sole grip, the shoe might feel a bit warm during very hot weather due to limited breathability. The shoe is not very lightweight because of its cushioning focus, so it may feel a bit heavier than minimalist walking shoes, but this trade-off benefits comfort and support. Traction is solid thanks to its rubber outsole, suitable for various surfaces you might walk on.

This shoe is well suited for women looking for a high-cushion, stable, and durable walking shoe, especially if comfort and protection are prioritized over lightness and extra ventilation.

Rating
9.6
Fit
Arch Support
Cushioning

Most important from
2358 reviews

Fit
The wide toe bed provides ample room, accommodating bunions and allowing feet to feel relaxed even during long shifts.
Arch Support
Offers exceptional support and cushioning that makes it ideal for those with plantar fasciitis or foot pain.
Cushioning
Offers exceptional support and cushioning that makes it ideal for those with plantar fasciitis or foot pain.
Durability
Built to last with strong durability; maintains support and looks nearly new even after months of daily use on varied terrain.
#3

On Women's Cloud 5 Sneakers, All White, 8 Medium US

Rating
9.3
Fit
Arch Support
Weight

Most important from
5573 reviews

Fit
Comfortable and ready to wear right out of the box, with no need for a break-in period.
Arch Support
These shoes are amazing for anyone struggling with foot pain. They offer great support, style, and are incredibly lightweight.
Weight
These shoes are amazing for anyone struggling with foot pain. They offer great support, style, and are incredibly lightweight.

The On Women's Cloud 5 Sneakers are designed with a lightweight and breathable performance mesh fabric, making them a comfortable choice for everyday wear. The cushioned collar and perforated tongue contribute to their comfort. The removable insole offers flexibility if you need to use custom orthotics.

These sneakers feature the patented CloudTec sole, which provides good cushioning, enhancing the comfort during walks or daily activities. Reflective accents improve visibility during low-light conditions, adding an element of safety for evening or early morning walks. Weighing only 3 pounds, they are light enough for extended wear without causing fatigue. The rubber sole ensures decent traction on various surfaces, which is beneficial for stability.

The design emphasizes comfort and style, but the arch support might not be sufficient for those with specific foot support needs. Additionally, while the lightweight design is great for everyday use, it may not offer the same level of durability as heavier, more rugged walking shoes. Being an imported product, the price point may be on the higher side compared to some domestic alternatives. These sneakers are best suited for women looking for stylish, comfortable, and lightweight walking shoes for casual, everyday use.

Rating
9.3
Fit
Arch Support
Weight

Most important from
5573 reviews

Fit
Comfortable and ready to wear right out of the box, with no need for a break-in period.
Arch Support
These shoes are amazing for anyone struggling with foot pain. They offer great support, style, and are incredibly lightweight.
Weight
These shoes are amazing for anyone struggling with foot pain. They offer great support, style, and are incredibly lightweight.

Buying Guide for the Best Walking Shoes Women

Choosing the right walking shoes is crucial for comfort, support, and overall foot health. The right pair can make a significant difference in your walking experience, whether you're taking a casual stroll, power walking, or embarking on long-distance walks. When selecting walking shoes, consider the following key specifications to ensure you find the best fit for your needs.
FitFit refers to how well the shoe conforms to the shape of your foot. A good fit is essential to prevent blisters, discomfort, and potential foot injuries. Shoes that are too tight can cause pain and restrict blood flow, while shoes that are too loose can lead to instability and chafing. To find the right fit, ensure there is enough room in the toe box for your toes to move freely, the heel should fit snugly without slipping, and the shoe should feel comfortable from the moment you put it on. Try on shoes at the end of the day when your feet are slightly swollen to get the most accurate fit.
Arch SupportArch support is the level of support provided to the arch of your foot. This is important because it helps distribute pressure evenly across your feet and can prevent pain and injuries. There are three main types of arch support: low (flat feet), medium (normal arch), and high (high arch). To determine your arch type, you can do a simple wet test by wetting your foot and stepping on a piece of paper. The imprint will show you the shape of your arch. Choose shoes with the appropriate level of support for your arch type to ensure comfort and prevent strain.
CushioningCushioning refers to the amount of padding in the shoe, which absorbs impact and provides comfort. This is important for reducing stress on your feet, ankles, and knees, especially during long walks. Cushioning can vary from minimal to maximum. If you prefer a more natural feel and closer ground contact, you might opt for minimal cushioning. For those who need extra comfort and shock absorption, especially if you walk on hard surfaces, maximum cushioning would be ideal. Consider your walking habits and personal comfort preferences when choosing the level of cushioning.
BreathabilityBreathability is the shoe's ability to allow air to circulate, keeping your feet cool and dry. This is important for preventing sweat buildup, which can lead to discomfort and blisters. Shoes with good breathability typically have mesh or perforated uppers. If you walk in warm climates or tend to have sweaty feet, look for shoes with high breathability. For cooler climates, you might prioritize other features over breathability, but still ensure there is some level of ventilation to maintain comfort.
WeightWeight refers to how heavy the shoe feels on your foot. Lighter shoes can make walking feel easier and less tiring, which is important for long-distance walks or if you plan to walk for extended periods. However, lighter shoes may offer less support and durability. Heavier shoes often provide more support and cushioning but can feel cumbersome. Consider your walking routine and personal preference. If you value agility and speed, go for lighter shoes. If you need more support and durability, a slightly heavier shoe might be better.
DurabilityDurability is the shoe's ability to withstand wear and tear over time. This is important for ensuring that your shoes last longer and provide consistent performance. Durable shoes are typically made with high-quality materials and reinforced stitching. If you walk frequently or on rough terrains, look for shoes with high durability. For casual or occasional walking, you might not need the most durable option, but it's still important to choose a well-constructed shoe to get the best value.
TractionTraction refers to the shoe's grip on various surfaces. Good traction is important for preventing slips and falls, especially on wet or uneven surfaces. Shoes with good traction typically have rubber outsoles with patterns or lugs that provide grip. If you walk on diverse terrains, such as trails or wet surfaces, prioritize shoes with excellent traction. For walking on smooth, dry surfaces, moderate traction may suffice. Consider where you will be walking most often to determine the level of traction you need.

FAQ