There’s no shortage of walking-shoe choices, but not every style is right for every person. And the needs of a woman’s foot make it all the more important to review critical features before buying any walking shoe, says hip and knee surgeon, Jorge Chahla, MD, PhD.
The best walking shoes for women should offer a combination of comfort, support and durability. Key features to look for: A cushioned sole that provides shock absorption…wide toe box to accommodate natural foot movement…arch support that matches your foot type…a flexible sole that ensures smooth transitions with each step…lightweight design to minimize fatigue during long walks…breathable materials to help keep feet dry and reduce the risk for blisters.
Here are the most important terms and features to know before making your next purchase to get the most comfortable shoes for your feet…
Heel counter: This is the part of the shoe that wraps around your heel. If it’s close-fitting, it provides better support and stability, especially during lateral movements. Looser heel counters offer more flexibility but may lack the same level of control. For women seeking a balance between comfort and support, a snug heel counter is key, especially for activities such as walking and running.
Heel stack: This refers to the amount of material between your foot and the ground, particularly in the heel area. A higher heel stack gives more cushioning, which can be beneficial for long-distance walking and standing. But too much height can sometimes lead to instability. It’s important to find the right balance based on your activity level and any specific foot conditions you may have.
Heel drop (high/low): Heel drop is the difference in height between the heel and the forefoot. A high heel drop (8 to 12 mm) typically provides more support for the heel, which is good for people who heel-strike (meaning the heel of the foot makes contact with the ground first) while walking or running. Shoes with a lower heel drop (0 to 6 mm) promote a more natural foot-strike, in which the heel hits the ground before the toe and are favored by those looking to strengthen their foot muscles or avoid overreliance on cushioned heels. Cushioned heels, especially those with excessive padding, can encourage an unnatural heel-striking gait that can affect the way force is distributed through the foot, ankle and up the kinetic chain, potentially increasing stress on the knees, hips, and lower back. Women who prefer a barefoot running style may opt for a lower heel drop.
Toe box: This is the area of the shoe where your toes sit. A wider toe box offers more room, which is beneficial if you have wider feet, bunions or just prefer more space for natural toe splay. A narrower toe box may give the shoe a sleeker look but can cause discomfort or compress the toes over time, leading to blisters or even foot deformities. Women should consider a toe box that aligns with their foot shape and comfort needs, especially for prolonged standing or walking.
Insole: Insoles can be designed for different foot shapes—some have extra cushioning at the heel or forefoot, while others offer more rigid support for those with overpronation (when the arch of the foot collapses too much while walking or running, possibly leading to flat feet). Key: Find an insole that matches your foot mechanics and offers the right balance of comfort and stability. For women with flat feet, an insole with an arch curve can provide extra support to reduce stress on the arch and prevent plantar fasciitis and other conditions.
Midsole: This cushioning layer between the insole and the outsole (see below) is the core of a shoe’s shock-absorption system. It reduces the impact each step has on your feet, knees and hips. For women who walk or stand a lot, the midsole’s thickness and material can determine how supportive or comfortable the shoe feels and can prevent fatigue or discomfort during extended wear. Materials like ethylene-vinyl acetate (EVA) foam or polyurethane are popular options.
Outsole: The bottom layer of good walking shoes for women typically are made from rubber or synthetic materials. For durability and grip, rubber is best, especially if you walk on uneven terrain or need better traction. A rocker sole has a curved design that reduces pressure on the heel and forefoot by promoting a rolling motion during walking. This feature is especially helpful for women with joint issues or who need to reduce strain on their feet during extended activity.
Cushioning: For walking and standing, it’s important to have enough cushioning to absorb impact, but too much can sometimes affect stability and lead to overpronation. On the other hand, too little cushioning can result in discomfort and increased pressure on the joints. Women who walk long distances or stand for extended periods should opt for moderate cushioning to protect their joints without sacrificing stability. Cushioning materials include EVA foam, memory foam and gel inserts. Example: The On Cloud series is known for its innovative use of lightweight cushioning combined with a responsive, supportive feel. Its proprietary CloudTec technology offers a balance between softness and propulsion, making it great for both athletes and non-athletes. It provides comfort without compromising on performance and is a solid choice for women who are active or need a supportive all-day shoe.
On Cloud
Breathability: Shoes with mesh or perforated designs allow for better airflow, reducing sweat buildup and preventing blisters, fungal infections and other issues.
Arch support: Crucial for preventing conditions like plantar fasciitis or tendonitis, for maintaining foot health and preventing overuse injuries, especially for women with high arches or flat feet, arch support helps distribute your weight evenly across the foot, reducing strain on muscles and ligaments.
Shoe weight: How much a shoe weighs plays a significant role in comfort and performance. Lightweight shoes like On’s Cloud style are great for women who run or walk long distances and need agility. Lightweight shoes reduce fatigue and allow for more natural movement. Heavier shoes, on the other hand, offer more structure and stability, making them ideal for women who require additional support or have joint concerns.
Use the answers to these common questions to help you pick the right combination of features for you.
What are the best walking shoes for women over 50? Walking shoes should focus on both comfort and stability. With age, changes in foot structure—such as a decrease in the natural fat pad cushioning—mean that extra cushioning becomes essential. Shoes like the New Balance 928 or Brooks Addiction Walker offer excellent arch support and cushioning to help reduce strain on the joints. Look for shoes with good grip to prevent slips and falls, as well as a roomier toe box to accommodate any foot conditions that may develop with age, such as bunions or hammertoes.
New Balance 928
Brooks Addiction Walker
What are the best shoes for standing all day? If you stand all day, whether for work or other activities, it’s crucial to have sneakers that offer exceptional support and cushioning. The Hoka One One Bondi and Brooks Ghost are highly recommended for their thick cushioned soles, which provide comfort and reduce impact on your feet, knees and lower back. Shoes with good arch support, such as the ASICS Gel-Nimbus, can help distribute pressure evenly across your foot, preventing fatigue. Additionally, a snug heel counter helps stabilize your foot and prevent unnecessary movement, reducing discomfort after standing for long periods.
ASICS Gel-Nimbus
What are the most comfortable shoes for women with bunions or other deformities? The correct shoe can make a significant difference in comfort and pain relief. Look for shoes that offer a wide deep toe box to accommodate any swelling or deformities. Brands like Orthofeet and Altra offer shoes with stretchy, soft materials and extra depth to prevent irritation. Cushioning also is key, as it absorbs shock and reduces pressure on sensitive areas. Orthotic-friendly shoes are a good option, as they allow you to insert custom insoles for better arch support and overall alignment.
What’s the best way to get a more customized fit? Laces secure the shoe around the foot and provide better support. Step-in shoes are convenient and easier to wear, but they don’t have the snug fit needed for high-impact activities or long periods of standing. Choose your walking shoes based on your daily activities—but if you’re looking for more support and stability, laces are the better option.
