Get Your Steps in Comfortably with the Best Walking Shoes for Women

If you’re someone who experiences plantar fasciitis, you’re well aware of how important a good shoe is. These have a heel drop on the lower side. And they are some of the best women’s shoes for those with plantar fasciitis since they’re soft and lightweight, yet they offer a rear crash pad to ensure a stable gait and a comfortable fit. (They also are one of the best running shoes for women.) Shopping tip: For more options to relieve this specific foot issue, take a look at the list of best shoes for plantar fasciitis.

People with high arches will breathe a sigh of relief after trying these walking shoes from Skechers. They’re a fairly lightweight option specifically designed to offer arch support. And there’s a removable, cushioned footbed, so you can customize the support if you’d like. The shoes come in 10 colors but only one width, which may not work for someone who needs narrower or wider walking shoes. Shopping tip: Experts consider Sketchers to be one of the best running shoe brands, so it’s worth a browse if you’re in the market for a new pair.

Bunions can be painful, so finding the right walking shoe can help keep you comfortable, whether you’re running errands or taking a few laps around the block. These sneakers are a slip-on style that looks like a lace-up shoe and they come in medium, wide, or extra-wide widths. They’ve also earned the American Podiatric Medical Association (APMA) Seal of Acceptance, though the heel drop isn’t listed.

Nike fans will want to check out the Invincible 3, which has extra cushioning for a softer fit that lessens the impact when walking. Because it is a breathable and durable option, you also won’t wear them out quickly. At 9mm, the heel drop is higher, so it could be especially helpful for people with ankle pain. The shoes only come in five colors, but if you become a Nike member, you can actually design your own pair of shoes. Shopping tip: Nike is a one-stop shop for anything fitness-related, where you’ll find the best tennis shoes for men, best tennis shoes for women, best walking shoes for men, best men’s workout shirts, best hoodies, best sports bras, best leggings, and more, making the free membership worth it.

If it’s tough to find your size in a good walking shoe, you’ll want to consider the 928v3 from New Balance. They come in sizes 5-13 with an impressive five width options, so they’re great for hard-to-find sizes. These shoes only come in neutral hues and the style doesn’t feel as modern as some, but they’re a solid pick with their removable footbed, shock-absorbing cushion, and ROLLBAR stability–all designed to provide extra support for the back of your feet.

Exercise is important to incorporate every day, even when it’s raining. These sneaker-style walking shoes are waterproof, so they’ll keep your toes dry even if you’re getting your steps in during a downpour. The leather used earned a Bronze rating from the Leather Working Group (LWG), meaning the brand met specific sustainability criteria, and the shoes are made of 20% or more recycled materials. These only come in medium width, and the color options are fun but limited.

W​​omen with wide feet will appreciate the roomy comfort of this Under Armour sneaker. Wide widths aren’t offered in all the available colors, but the black and white is a classic choice and is offered in wide width for all sizes (5-12). These shoes have a cushioned heel for an extra comfortable stride, plus they are breathable, durable, and have a rubber outsole for better traction.

Security lines at the airport tend to feel rushed, and trying to get your shoes back on while also collecting your things can be a struggle. These have laces and look like a typical sneaker, but the collapsible heel lets you slide your foot in without having to bend down and use your hands. Wide widths are available in sizes up to 16.5 women’s, but the sizes start at 6 rather than 5, a more typical starter size. There are four colors available (all classic neutrals) and the shoes have a breathable canvas upper with a cushioned outsole. Plus, the insoles are removable and can be washed.

These sandals offer a stylish yet practical footwear option for women who plan to do a lot of walking. The platform adds a bit of height and style, yet it contains dual density cushioning to better absorb impact when walking. The wider strap is also stylish yet it helps the shoe fit more securely on your foot, so you’ll keep your balance even while strolling a cobblestone street in Europe. Sizes only run to a women’s 11 and no wide widths are available, but the three neutral-toned color choices are easy to pair with any outfit whether at home or traveling.

Brooks is known for supportive shoes, and the Ghost 14 is an excellent pick for walking, running, or even heading to the gym for a workout session. With 36 colors available, it’s easy to find a shoe that shows off your style. The sizing tends to run small, so you’ll want to consider sizing up when buying these. Both medium and wide widths are available in sizes 5-12, so there’s a good selection for different types of feet. The 6mm heel drop is about in the middle of high or low drops.