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10 Best Walking Shoes Women 2025 in the United States

#3
Ryka Women
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Our Top Picks

#1

Winner

PUMA Womens Carina Leather Sneaker, White Silver, 7.5

Rating
10.0
Chosen by1,422
Fit
Arch Support
Cushioning

Most important from
2432 reviews

Fit
A slightly wider fit and the need to size up by half a size ensures a perfect, comfortable fit without constricting the toes.
Arch Support
The shoes are incredibly comfortable with a cushiony insole that supports flat feet, making them perfect for long hours on your feet.
Cushioning
The shoes are incredibly comfortable with a cushiony insole that supports flat feet, making them perfect for long hours on your feet.
Breathability
Breathability is decent enough to prevent feet from overheating during extended use.
Weight
Lightweight design keeps feet feeling light and comfortable even after a full day of walking or standing.
Durability
The leather upper is durable and easy to clean—dirt and smudges wipe off effortlessly, maintaining a fresh appearance.

The PUMA Womens Carina Leather Sneaker blends a fashionable 80's inspired look with modern comfort features, making it a good choice for casual walking. Its premium leather upper offers durability and a stylish finish, while the elevated platform sole provides some cushioning underfoot. The shoe is relatively lightweight at just over 2 pounds, which helps keep your steps easy throughout the day.

It has a low-top design with limited arch support, so it might not be the best pick if you need extra support for long walks or have specific foot arch needs. Breathability could also be limited since leather tends to trap heat more than mesh materials. The rubber sole offers decent traction for typical everyday surfaces but might not perform as well on wet or uneven terrain.

This sneaker is best suited for those who want a trendy, durable shoe for casual walking around town rather than intensive or long-distance walking.

Rating
10.0
Chosen by1,422
Fit
Arch Support
Cushioning

Most important from
2432 reviews

Fit
A slightly wider fit and the need to size up by half a size ensures a perfect, comfortable fit without constricting the toes.
Arch Support
The shoes are incredibly comfortable with a cushiony insole that supports flat feet, making them perfect for long hours on your feet.
Cushioning
The shoes are incredibly comfortable with a cushiony insole that supports flat feet, making them perfect for long hours on your feet.
Breathability
Breathability is decent enough to prevent feet from overheating during extended use.
Weight
Lightweight design keeps feet feeling light and comfortable even after a full day of walking or standing.
Durability
The leather upper is durable and easy to clean—dirt and smudges wipe off effortlessly, maintaining a fresh appearance.
#2

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

Rating
9.7
Fit
Arch Support
Cushioning

Most important from
6326 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
9.7
Fit
Arch Support
Cushioning

Most important from
6326 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.
#3

Ryka Women's, Devotion X Walking Shoe Black

Rating
8.8
Fit
Arch Support
Cushioning

Most important from
2651 reviews

Fit
True-to-size fit and a roomier toe box prevent cramping, even for those with longer second toes, enhancing overall comfort during extended wear.
Arch Support
These shoes offer just the right amount of arch support without causing foot pain, making them a comfortable choice even for sensitive feet.
Cushioning
The lightweight design combines with excellent cushioning and grip to provide a confident, stable walk on various surfaces, including wet sidewalks.
Breathability
The breathable mesh upper keeps feet cool during daily walks, contributing to a fresh and comfortable walking experience.
Weight
The lightweight design combines with excellent cushioning and grip to provide a confident, stable walk on various surfaces, including wet sidewalks.
Durability
Durability and quality materials stand out, with users planning to repurchase the same style in multiple colors due to satisfaction with support and comfort.
Traction
The lightweight design combines with excellent cushioning and grip to provide a confident, stable walk on various surfaces, including wet sidewalks.

The Ryka Women's Devotion X walking shoe is designed specifically with women’s feet in mind, offering a narrower heel and a roomier toe box, which helps create a more comfortable fit for many women. It features full-length RE-ZORB cushioning, which provides excellent shock absorption and impact protection, making these shoes a good choice if you do a lot of walking or want extra comfort during fitness walking sessions. The breathable mesh upper helps keep feet cool, while partially recycled materials add a small eco-friendly touch.

Weighing about 1.5 pounds, they are fairly lightweight, which supports natural movement without feeling bulky. The rubber sole offers good traction, making these shoes suitable for various walking surfaces. Durability seems solid thanks to the rubber sole and quality materials, but heavy daily use over rough terrain could still wear them down faster than more rugged walking shoes. The lace-up closure ensures a secure fit, though some might prefer slip-on options for convenience.

These shoes serve as a great option for women seeking comfortable, cushioned walking shoes with good breathability and traction, especially if the focus is on fitness walking rather than hiking or uneven trails.

Rating
8.8
Fit
Arch Support
Cushioning

Most important from
2651 reviews

Fit
True-to-size fit and a roomier toe box prevent cramping, even for those with longer second toes, enhancing overall comfort during extended wear.
Arch Support
These shoes offer just the right amount of arch support without causing foot pain, making them a comfortable choice even for sensitive feet.
Cushioning
The lightweight design combines with excellent cushioning and grip to provide a confident, stable walk on various surfaces, including wet sidewalks.
Breathability
The breathable mesh upper keeps feet cool during daily walks, contributing to a fresh and comfortable walking experience.
Weight
The lightweight design combines with excellent cushioning and grip to provide a confident, stable walk on various surfaces, including wet sidewalks.
Durability
Durability and quality materials stand out, with users planning to repurchase the same style in multiple colors due to satisfaction with support and comfort.
Traction
The lightweight design combines with excellent cushioning and grip to provide a confident, stable walk on various surfaces, including wet sidewalks.

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