Whether you’re always on your feet at work, traveling, running errands, or walking is your main form of exercise, having a comfortable and supportive pair of the best women’s walking shoes is the key to happy feet. No, we’re not talking about the adorable, animated penguin movie.
While many experts will say that shopping for walking shoes online isn’t as ideal as going into your local shoe shop to try them on in person, sometimes going into the store isn’t always possible. Be that time, convenience, or even laziness, we’ve got you covered. There are plenty of sneaker stores to shop online, including top brands like Hoka, New Balance, and All Birds.
Taking the time to find the best pair of women’s walking shoes and running shoes for your foot type can mean all the difference. According to the Asics website, “Around four in five runners risk injury in shoes that don’t suit their running style.”
- Best Overall: Hoka Bondai SR
- Best Lightweight Walking Shoes: On Running Cloud 5
- Best Casual Walking Shoes for Women: adidas Stan Smith
- Best Walking Shoes for Bunions/Wide feet: Hoka Clifton 9
- Most Supportive: Dr. Scholl’s Time Off Sneaker
- Best Slip-On Walking Shoes: Cariuma Slip-On Off White Canvas
- Best Athleisure Walking Shoes: lululemon Chargefeel 2 Sneaker
- Best Running Walking Hybrid: Brooks Ghost 16
- Best Dressy Walking Shoes for Women: Cole Haan GrandPrø Topspin Sneakers
- Best Walking Shoes Worth the Splurge: New Balance MADE in the USA 993 Core
RELATED: Best women’s running shoes, according to podiatrists
To narrow down the best picks we spoke with Dr. Miguel Cunha, a podiatrist, and founder of Gotham Footcare in New York City. We also asked members of the Post Wanted team to give their recommendations.
Check out the FAQ to learn more about what design features to look for when shopping. We have everything from Brookes to Hoka comparisons, and stylish designer shoes, too.
RELATED: Best men’s walking shoes, according to a podiatrist
Best Women’s Walking Shoes
Best Overall: Hoka Bondi SR
Pros:
- Made from water-resistant leather and a slip-resistant outsole
- Plenty of colors to choose from
- EVA midsole makes long strides comfortable
Cons:
- Higher price point
“These shoes are the most cushioned shoes in the HOKA road-shoe line and are one of the most comfortable shoes around. The Bondi SR line has a thick well-padded EVA foam midsole that makes long walks comfortable with every step,” Cunha told The Post.
Available in both black and white and ideal for daily life. These sneakers are recently updated with water-resistant leather and a slip-resistant outsole. These are by far women’s most comfortable walking shoes.
Stack height: 39.4 | Weight: 11.50 ounces | Drop: 6.0 mm | Colors: 5 | Sizes: 5-11
Best Lightweight Walking Shoes: On Running Cloud 5
Pros:
- Breathable mesh design with an updated Speedboard design to propel you into forward motion
- Made from 44% recyclable materials
- Stunning colors to choose from
Cons:
- Higher price point
- Sellout risk
“These shoes are stylish, comfortable, and designed to be the most lightweight fully cushioned running shoes available,” Cunha said.
If you can’t stand being weighed down, On Running’s Cloud 5 sneakers are the way to go in Cunha’s book. Available in 18 different colors and made of 44% recycled materials.
Stack height: 28.3 | Weight: 7.1 ounces | Drop: 7.0 mm | Colors: 16 | Sizes: 5-11
Best Casual Walking Shoes for Women: adidas Stan Smith
Pros:
- Timeless design and fair price point for the quality
- Match with nearly everything
- One of the easiest pairs to clean
Cons:
- May be too athletic-leaning for some tastes, but not a dealbreaker
Your search for the perfect everyday white sneakers ends here. The classic silhouette of Adidas’ Stan Smith can be worn with almost anything, and are comfortable enough to wear walking all day.
“I reach for my Stan Smiths day after day, year after year for everything from casual errands to office outfits,” Meaghan Roche, senior SEO manager, shared after wearing the sneakers for months. “The outer material is super easy to clean — oh so important with white sneakers, with a Magic Eraser, and a little elbow grease being my preferred method of cleaning.”
Overall, these sneakers stand the test of time. Not only are they extremely durable for even daily use but the style is timeless.
Stack height: n/a | Weight: 11 ounces | Drop: n/a | Colors: 1+ | Sizes: 5-11
Best Walking Shoes for Bunions: Hoka Clifton 9
Pros:
- Responsive foam that cushions the foot and propels it forward
- Great for those with joint issues
- Durabrasion rubber outer soles
- A great option for women’s wide walking shoes
Cons:
- Breathability could be better
- Still a heavier shoe
The Clifton 9 promises a cushier landing than its predecessor with less weight. The sneaker also has an early-stage MetarRocker that starts midfoot to create a smoother transition from heel to toe. For those who deal with knee and ankle pain, this feature will be appreciated for its ability to alleviate pressure from impact.
Emma Sutton-Williams, our commerce reporter, found that when it came to feel, Hoka was her all-time favorite for walking in New York. “I found that my knees stopped aching when I switched to the Clifton 9,” she said. “It also gave me a boost forward with the stacked heel height that rocks forward.”
“The Hoka Clifton 9 comes in standard and wide-width shoes that are comfortable and supportive to accommodate feet that are wider or [those who] have bunions,” Cunha told the New York Post.
Get the Hoka Clifton 9 sneakers in many different colors and enjoy the ninth iteration of the popular shoe that are lighter and more cushioned than ever before.
Stack height: 29-32mm | Weight: 7 .05-8.7 ounces | Drop: 5.0 mm | Colors: 20+ | Sizes: 5-12
Most Supportive: Dr. Scholl’s Time Off Sneaker
Pros:
- Most comfortable sneaker among all tested
- Easy-to-clean material
- Excellent for walking around for plenty of hours consecutively
Cons:
- Some people who are taller may not prefer or desire the platform, though not a dealbreaker
Among all the white sneakers tested, Dr. Scholl’s Time Off Sneaker is the unanimous pair we want to wear 24/7. In terms of comfort, style and plush support, these shoes are quite unmatched.
“These were my go-to shoes before a West Coast vacation where I walked all around Los Angeles, San Diego, San Francisco and Napa Valley,” said Victoria Giardina, commerce writer and content strategist. “I couldn’t imagine going without these shoes for hours at a time, walking around on sidewalks and uneven terrain at vineyards.”
What’s more, Angela Tricarico, New York Post commerce writer/reporter, swears by the shoes. “After buying and wearing the Dr. Scholl’s Time Off sneaker for long days walking around the city and commuting, I’m not sure I’ll ever wear another sneaker — that’s how obsessed I am with these sneakers,” she said. “I wear them to work, I wear them out at night, I’ve brought them on walking-heavy vacations — these even got me through hours of standing and dancing at the Eras Tour! They’re comfortable in a way I rarely find in sneakers that also look cute with any outfit, thanks to cushioned insoles and arch support.”
Stack height: 1.58 | Weight: 1.2 ounces | Drop: n/a | Colors: 25+ | Sizes: 5-13
Best Slip-On Walking Shoes: Cariuma Slip-On Off-White Canvas
Pros:
- Timeless style that goes with everything
- Comfortable insoles
- Great variety of color options
Cons:
- These run a bit smaller than Cariuma sneakers with laces
Designed to mimic a classic skater shoe, the slip-on walking shoe from Cariuma has a natural rubber outsole and an organic cotton upper for breathability. They’re comfortable and come in a variety of other styles and materials. Tricarico tested for The Post.
“I’ve never been a slip-on sneaker person (despite a deep teenage love for Vans), but I am a Cariuma person, so I gave the brand’s slip-ons a shot — and I’m happy to say they’ve convinced me on the style!” said Tricarico. “Perfect to dress up or down, the white canvas slip-ons from Cariuma have the perfect clean silhouette, and I’m always happy to slide them on whether I’m commuting to work or running an errand in the neighborhood.”
“Cariuma’s shoes have long been a favorite of mine, partially because of their sculpted memory foam insole, which keeps its shape nicely, even after weeks of wear. The slip-ons are no exception to that since the brand uses the same insoles,” Tricarico added.
Stack height: n/a | Weight: n/a | Drop: n/a | Colors: 3+ | Sizes: 5-13
Best Athleisure Walking Shoes: lululemon Chargefeel 2 Sneaker
Pros:
- Great for all-activity wear
- Breathable, supportive and secure fit
Cons:
- They may not be the best for extremely rainy and severe weather conditions due to the pair’s sock-like fit
We love lululemon anything and its walking shoes are no exception. The Chargefeel 2 Sneaker is extremely comfortable, has a supportive sole and is breathable — great for these summer days.
Giardina reviewed a pair and enjoyed them for walking, training, and even running.
“Even on uneven terrain, they held up well and didn’t falter,” she explained. “Something I appreciate, though I’m typically a US 8 in sizing, is they’re quite generous size range…They’re everything I look for in a sneaker and are well worth the investment.”
Stack height: n/a | Weight: 9.3 ounces | Drop: 9mm | Colors: 4 | Sizes: 5-12
Best Running Walking Hybrid: Brooks Ghost 16
Pros:
- Curved mid and outsole to aid in smoother transitioning
- Secure upper designed to keep the foot in place
- Updated with more cushioning for a softer landing
- Inclusive sizing
Cons:
- Not great for those with joint pain
Brooks is known for its supportive running sneakers and the Ghost 16 is one of them. Coincidentally, they’re also solid walking shoes. Featuring a softer cushioning and a flexible sole, they’re lightweight and have a GlideRoll Rocker for easier transitions. An enhanced upper offers enhanced stability, while mid-level cushioning provides comfort to the ankle and heel.
Holley J Coley, our editorial commerce updates editor, took them out for a spin with some thoughts.
“I was able to test the Ghost 16 for more than a month and wasn’t disappointed. I have high arches and very bony feet, and these have nice cushion and a good amount of support. They’re flexible, too, and breathable — always a plus. I’ve walked many a block in them and haven’t had a single blister yet.”
Stack height: (heel/forefoot) 39 mm/33 mm | Weight: 9.5 ounces | Drop: 6 mm | Colors: 7+ | Sizes: 5 -12
Best Dressy Walking Shoes for Women: Cole Haan GrandPrø Topspin Sneakers
Pros:
- Breathable and lightweight
- Plenty of white shade and trim variations to choose from
- A sturdy midsole with quality traction
- Excellent walking tennis shoes for women
Cons:
- The price point may be unreachable for some
Chic, sleek and elevated, the Cole Haan GrandPrø Topspin Sneakers remains one of our favorites. Though a splurge, they feature a crafted welt, a GRANDFØAM midsole, and premium leather uppers for both support and style. These women’s leather walking shoes also look cute with a variety of outfits, which never hurt anyone!
Redesigned since its initial launch to be more lightweight and breathable, the plush heel hugs the foot as and the EVA midsole has added traction. We highly recommend adding these white walking shoes for women to your cart before they are gone.
“The Women’s GrandPrø Topspin Sneakers embody a clean-girl aesthetic and exude street chic,” Sutton-Williams shared after reviewing. “I appreciate the added height provided by the sole platform. Personally, I’ve transitioned to wearing flat shoes exclusively, even for special outings, so these fit in perfectly.”
What’s more, these sneakers provide breathability, ensuring comfort even without socks during the upcoming summer months. “Their lightweight design and cushioned foam padding ensure that my knees remain relaxed throughout the day,” Sutton-Williams added.
Stack height: n/a | Weight: 10 ounces | Drop: n/a | Colors: 10+ | Sizes: 5-11
Best Walking Shoes Worth the Splurge: New Balance MADE in the USA 993 Core
Pros:
- Incredible cushioning
- Great for ankle support and stability
- Secure, laced-up fit
Cons:
- Price point may be unreachable for some
- Only available in one color
If you’re willing to spend a little bit more money, Cunha loves the New Balance MADE in the USA 993 Core sneakers and so do those seeking the best women’s walking shoes for plantar fasciitis. “These shoes are expensive but they are an investment as they are designed to last. The NB 993’s provide increased durability, cushioning, shock absorption, and a rigid heel counter for ankle stability,” he said.
If you need ankle stability in your life, these shoes are the ones.
Stack height: n/a | Weight: 7.1 ounces | Drop: 7.0 mm | Colors: 16 | Sizes: 5-11
Best Walking Shoes for Pronation: Asics Gel Kayano 29
Pros:
- One of the most breathable walking shoes, thanks to an engineered knit upper
- Made from 50% recyclable materials
- Hails from a trusted brand
Cons:
- Some reviewers say the heel is a bit bulky
“The forefoot of this sneaker is designed with a well-cushioned FF Blast Plus footbed and anatomical arch that is firmer and denser on the medial side of the shoe to support and hold the plantar fascia and prevent it from collapsing to minimize fatigue and pain associated with over-pronation,” Cunha said.
Featuring a low-profile external heel counter, this piece comfortably cradles your foot with advanced rear-foot support. Available in more than 20 different colors.
Stack height: 33.1 mm | Weight: 9.5 ounces | Drop: 10 mm | Colors: 27+ | Sizes: 5-12
Best Chunky: Dream Pairs Chunky Platform Sneaker
Pros:
- Incredibly comfortable and plush, especially inside
- Secure lace-up detailing that hardly comes undone
- Simple to clean
Cons:
- On the stiff side
- Not the best for dressing up outfits
Giardina also tested the Dream Pairs Chunky Platform Sneakers. “This pair of shoes is a top-worn style whenever I have to literally ‘run’ anywhere,” she said. “They hold up extremely well in the rain, too, and are easy to clean. While its rigid bottom may not be everyone’s go-to look, I’ve fallen in love with this pair’s versatility and charm.”
Stack height: n/a | Weight: 13-14 ounces | Drop: n/a | Colors: 10+ | Sizes: 5-12
Best Women’s Walking Shoe for Work: Morrison 2.0 Lace-Up Sneaker
Pros:
- Durable
- Adds a touch of height for those who like the look of heels but need the comfort of flats
Cons:
- Easily scuffs
If you love adidas but want something more budget-friendly, we suggest the Naturalizer Morrison 2.0 Lace-Up Sneaker. Like many designs from the brand, they’re comfortable, supportively hugging the back of feet.
Giardina reviewed for The Post and was impressed enough to make them a part of her weekly wardrobe.
“They’re one of the pairs I resort to for my NYC office commute and because they hug my feet without looking like court shoes, they look phenomenal with linen dresses. They also look just as good on the pickleball court with their subtly sporty edge. I love the girly-girl style, and these are one of the most versatile pairs of shoes I own. And comfortable — let’s not forget the comfort.”
Stack height: n/a | Weight: n/a | Drop: n/a | Colors: 15+ | Sizes: 5-12
Best Walking Shoes for Supination: Brooks Ghost 15
Pros:
- A Post Wanted tried-and-true pick
- Boast a cloud-like feel
- Versatile for walking or running, with a lightweight midsole for comfort
Cons:
- Some reviewers say the laces could be of better quality, though not an overall dealbreaker
“These shoes have a soft flexible midsole with superior cushioning for shock absorption for supinators with high arches,” Cunha said.
As a personal owner of the Brooks Ghost 15 sneakers and someone with higher arches, I can attest just how comfortable and durable these shoes are! Not only do they feel great on your feet but they’re so cloud-like that you forget you’re even wearing shoes. Great for long runs, running errands and everything in between.
I try to walk anywhere from 10-15K steps a day and my Brooks sneakers have been a game changer. They’re soft on the feet but not too cloud-like that you don’t feel stable. I used to have ankle pain but haven’t had any issues since making the transition to my Brooks a couple of years ago.
Snag these in a variety of colors and sizes on Amazon or directly on the Brooks website. They’re also a No. 1 Amazon best-seller.
Stack height: (heel/forefoot) 35mm/23mm| Weight: 10.5 ounces | Drop: 12 mm | Colors: 27+ | Sizes: 5-12
Best Breathable Walking Shoes: UYN Nature Tune Vibram Shoes
Pros:
- Comfortable and breathable material
- Offered in a catalog of neutral colors
- Great women’s walking shoes with arch support
Cons:
- Limited sizes available
- Sellout risk
If breathability is the most important factor when it comes to your perfect walking shoes, look no further than UYN.
“This shoe is made of a highly breathable and waterproof Membrain115 that provides elasticity and comfort,” Cunha said. “A Merino wool inner layer helps warm the foot in cold temperatures as it wicks away moisture and reduces odors. The ultralight and shock absorbing Vibram chrono sole is made of EVA for increased arch comfort and support when you walk.”
So if you need women’s waterproof walking shoes, add them to your cart ASAP.
Stack height: n/a | Weight: n/a | Drop: 12 mm | Colors: 6 | Sizes: 7.5-13
Best Budget-Friendly Walking Shoes: Saucony Cohesion 13
Pros:
- Spacious, especially for flat feet or wide feet
- Made with a durable rubber outsole for increased support
- Great for arch support
Cons:
- Some reviewers say the fit isn’t true to size, compared to other styles
When it comes to a smaller budget, Cunha recommends the Saucony Cohesion 13 sneakers for a less expensive but durable pick.
“These walking shoes are spacious, comfortable, they provide excellent ankle and arch support, and best of all they only cost $40,” he said.
Stack height: 17mm | Weight: 7.3 ounces | Drop: 12 mm | Colors: 14+ | Sizes: 5-11
Best Sustainable Walking Shoes: Allbirds Plant Pacers
Pros:
- Less bulky than some other athletic-leaning options
- Made from eco-friendly plastic
- Chic and long-lasting
Cons:
- Limited inventory
- Not as great arch support as some other styles on this list
For a sustainable and trendy option, you can’t go wrong with the Allbirds Women’s Plant Pacers.
“The Plant Pacers are well constructed and eco-friendly plastic-free shoes made of plant leather uppers and recycled polyester lining,” Cunha said.
Stack height: n/a | Weight: n/a | Drop: n/a | Colors: 3 | Sizes: (Women) 5-11
Best Walking Sandals: Chaco Z2 Classic Athletic Sandals
Pros:
- Great for those with flat feet
- Several colorws to choose from
- Helps alleviate and support arch pain
Cons:
- Not the most aesthetically pleasing design, yet practical
- More expensive “casual” sandal on the market
With warm weather on the horizon, it’s always good to have a pair of durable slip on walking shoes that can be worn on long walks.
“If you have flat feet you overpronate (which means your arch collapses more than it should) I recommend wearing the Chaco Z/2 Classic Sandal,” Cunha said. “This sandal has arch support to minimize arch fatigue and discomfort, as well as a slight heel lift to reduce the stress and pain affecting the posterior tibial and achilles tendons, which is commonly associated with arch pain.”
Stack height: n/a | Weight: n/a | Drop: n/a | Colors: 13+ | Sizes: 5-12
Most Versatile Walking Shoe: ECCO Soft 7 Sneaker
Pros:
- Low-profile, making them incredibly versatile to dress up or down
- Plenty of color options to choose from
- Leather exterior, making them sturdy to last longer over time
Cons:
- Prone to getting dirty quicker than others, due to its material and color
- Price point may be unreachable for some
If you’re searching for women’s leather walking shoes, we suggest these. Known as its “Everyday Sneaker,” Ecco’s Soft 7 Sneaker is built for comfort. So, what makes this shoe stand apart? The monochrome cap toe subtly refines a low-profile, and the smooth leather suede adds a flair of elegance that makes these shoes a great choice for work.
Choose from eight different shades, like petal trim pink and marine blue.
Stack height: n/a | Weight: 9.0 ounces | Drop: n/a | Colors: 43+ | Sizes: 4-12.5
Most Lightweight Walking Shoe: lululemon Blissfeel 2 Running Shoe
Pros:
- One of the most comfortable walking shoes we reviewed
- Incredibly lightweight, making each forward stride feel airy
- Sock-like fit helps prevent blisters
Cons:
- Price point may be unreachable for some
- May not offer as much arch support for those with weaker ankles
We’re big fans of the lululemon Blissfeel 2 Running Shoe (read our full review for more). They’re the brand’s first road-to-trail sneakers, specially designed to offer more support for any type of activity — giving your walk a cushioned feel. Best of all, these women’s most comfortable walking shoes are offered in plenty of colorways to suit your personal style.
Stack height: n/a | Weight: 9.7 ounces | Drop: 9.5mm | Colors: 4 | Sizes: 5-12
Best Budget: LOFT Everyday Lace-Up Sneakers
Pros:
- Classic, clean, design
- Easy to clean and hardly becomes dirty
- Wonderful for dressing up or down
Cons:
- Not as comfortable toward the front of the shoe compared to other pairs tested
For a budget-friendly pair of walking shoes, try this pick from LOFT. “The Everyday Lace Up Sneakers are some of my favorites, with a low-top, lace-up design that’s classic and matches with everything,” said Giardina. “I’ve worn them with leggings and a zip-up hoodie and a floral dress alike.”
Although they lack some of the athletic features other picks in our roundup have to offer, Giardina and many reviewers swear the walking shoes are as comfortable as can be!
Stack height: n/a | Weight: n/a | Drop: n/a | Colors: 1 | Sizes: (Women) 4.5-12
How We Tested
While reviewing what women’s walking shoes would make our cut, we tried to focus on a variety of things:
- Material: What is the construction process, and how does it feel to the touch?
- Breathability: Is it suitable for various climates?
- Comfortability: Do the shoes remain comfortable during activities like walking, running, or jogging, or do they cause any discomfort after long hours of walking?
- Support: Does the interior sole offer more cushioning or protection?
- Comfort: Does the insole provide ample cushioning and protection?
- Versatility: Can the shoe be used for all-day support or long-distance wear?
- Value/Price: Considering all of the above factors, is it worth the investment? Is it worth the splurge?
FAQ and Buyers Guide
Ahead, Dr. Cunha provides insight into the foot and sneakers world. He has extensive training and experience treating a wide array of foot and ankle conditions, from minor problems to complex reconstructive foot and ankle surgery.
“Wearing the wrong shoes may lead to problems such as lowered performance, discomfort such as in plantar fasciitis and runner’s knee, injuries, and even early-onset arthritis,” Cunha said. “On the other hand (or other foot, pun intended), shoes designed to compensate for the impact of your feet can help prevent injuries and improve structural alignment and performance.”
What do I look for when shopping for walking shoes online?
- Flex Point: The point where the shoe bends and creases is the flex point. For optimal comfort, the flex point of the shoe should match the bending point of your foot; when it doesn’t align with your foot it can cause problems like arch pain or plantar fasciitis. You can check the flex point of the shoe by holding it by the heel and pressing the toe of the shoe onto the ground.
- Comfortable Footbed & Insole: You’ll want to support the arch with memory foam or EVA (ethyl vinyl acetate) anti-compression insole.
- Shock Absorbant Outsole: Outsoles made of rubber will help alleviate the impact of each step far greater than a shoe with a hard sole.
- Supportive & Durable Uppers: It’s important to pick a shoe that offers as much durability and protection as possible without sacrificing comfort or flexibility. Look for a shoe designed with smooth, solid leather uppers that are not only highly durable but also flexible and comfortable.
How to identify what foot type I have:
To determine your foot type look at the soles of a pair of worn-in shoes. The wear patterns illustrate where you are accumulating pressure when you walk. Certain foot types are more prone to specific types of foot discomfort and foot-related injuries. For instance, people with plantar fasciitis, Achilles tendonitis, shin splints, or inner knee pain, tend to have flat feet and be pronators, which means your feet roll inward. People who commonly sprain their ankles or have outer knee pain in contrast, and tend to be supinators because they have higher arches and roll outward.
There are three wear patterns to look for in your shoes.
- If your shoe is worn out in this area you’re a supinator or an underpronator. With this foot type, you will need cushioning sneakers for shock absorption.
- If your shoes are evenly worn you are neutral and have an average gait with equal weight distribution across the foot. With this foot type, you need stability or moderate-stability sneakers, which offer a balance of cushioning and support.
- If you notice that your shoes have the top inner edge worn, you’re a pronator. With this foot type, you need motion-control or high-stability sneakers to keep your feet better aligned with your legs.
Supinator
If you are a supinator, look for shoes with soft, flexible midsoles and look as if they don’t have an arch but are rather filled in with more sole and cushioning as this foot type doesn’t provide enough shock absorption on its own. When picking a running shoe pick one with extra rubber incorporated into the sole which translates to a smoother and bouncier gait. When picking a shoe for cross-training, pick a shoe with flexible grooves in the sole to facilitate ballistic pivoting and cutting.
Neutral
If you’re neutral, fortunately, with this type you distribute weight evenly across your feet so motion control is not as critical as stability. A lightweight shoe that bends just to the ball of the foot will be sufficient enough to offer a good balance of cushioning and support. When picking shoes for cross-training, pick shoes that have soles that look slinky which help put an extra spring in your step. When picking shoes for running look for a shoe that provides traction and reduces instep strain.
Pronator
If you’re a pronator, look for shoes that have the presence of a dense supportive arch which helps provide reinforcement and keep the arches of the foot from collapsing. These shoes tend to be fairly stiff and will flex only near the toe area. When picking shoes for cross training choose a side a wide toe box allows for comfortable lateral movement as pronating feet will collapse and spread within the shoe. When picking shoes for running, pick a shoe with stabilizing roll bars to help protect the arches.
How do I break in my new walking shoes?
- Wear the shoes around the house or running errands for short periods of time and gradually increase usage
- Wear thicker socks or double up on socks until the shoes begin to conform to your feet
- Try stretching shoe spray and shoe stretchers
- While wearing the shoes, use a hair dryer to heat them up for 2-3 minutes. This will help them expand.
Expert Tips
- Routinely replace your shoes: Good sneakers are designed to last for 300 to 500 miles. As a result, your shoes will need to be replaced approximately every six to 10 months. It doesn’t matter if they still look new. If the support has been worn out you’re at a much higher risk for injury. I also recommend taking note of the date each time you buy a new pair of walking shoes, this will help you keep track of when you’re due for a new pair.
- Make sure you’re buying the right size: I recommend always buying shoes at the end of the day when your feet are most swollen. If they feel comfortable then, they will most likely feel comfortable throughout the day. Have your foot measured with a Brannock device for both length and width. It’s important to remember that sizing can be different across different brands, due to their design and the materials used.
- Try at least three different shoe models: try two different models at the same time, wearing one model on each foot. The tip of your thumb should fit between the end of the shoe and the end of your longest toe. Make sure the toe box is wide enough to accommodate your toes and that there is enough room to slightly wiggle them. If you can’t move your toes at all the shoes are too tight and will eventually become painful.
What walking shoes are recommended by podiatrists?
When it comes to walking shoes, most podiatrists will emphasize comfort over style. According to an older article in the Journal of Foot and Ankle Research, up to 72% of folks are not wearing the correct footwear. You don’t want to be part of that group.
Look for walking shoes that have adequate arch support and feature a moderate heel-to-toe drop of 6-10 millimeters for maximum comfort. Make sure to select the correct size. One foot is typically larger than the other, so you’ll want to select something that accommodates that.
Some retailers, such as Brooks, have a stellar return policy, so don’t be afraid to return or swap a pair if you end up grabbing something that isn’t a great fit. Trust us, your feet will appreciate you being picky.
Which shoe brand is best for walking?
The best shoe brand for walking will ultimately be the one that you’re the most comfortable in. Although lots of podiatrists recommend brands such as Hoka, New Balance, Brooks, it’s up to the wearer to determine if a shoe delivers the support and feel they’re seeking.
When shopping for your next pair, pay close attention to design features geared toward arch and ankle support. Read reviews, as well, and make sure the walking shoes have ample room in the toe box.
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