Skip to Content

Our editors handpick the products that we feature. We may earn commission from the links on this page.

These Women’s Walking Shoes Provide All-Day Comfort

Reaching your daily step count will be a breeze.

By Paula Lee and Elena Odulak
most comfortable walking shoes for women 2023pinterest icon
Oleg Breslavtsev//Getty Images

Like timeless white sneakers, a versatile pair of comfortable walking shoes is a necessary element of any hardworking shoe closet. Whether you’re standing on your feet all day for work, want something lightweight for travel, or simply need an everyday pair of reliable shoes, it’s critical to support your feet with proper footwear no matter what your age.

According to Jacqueline Sutera, DPM, spokesperson for the American Podiatric Medical Society, the ideal walking sneakers should tick off the following boxes: arch support, cushioning, and shock absorption. “These qualities are found in ‘good for you’ shoes,” the board-certified podiatrist tells Oprah Daily. Plus, a good fit can help stave off knee pain and lower-back pain.

Our Top Picks

  • 1
    Waffle Debut Women's Shoe

    nike Waffle Debut Women's Shoe

    $75 at Nike
    Read more
  • 2
    Mach X Sneaker
  • 3
    WW840V3 Walking Sneaker

    Best Walking Shoes for Everyday

    New Balance WW840V3 Walking Sneaker

    Read more
  • 4
    Walker Classic
  • 5
    Cloud Sneaker

    Cloud-Like Walking Sneaker

    On Cloud Sneaker

    Read more

And what about those common (and pesky) foot concerns? “People with flat feet need a bit more structure, stability, and support, while people with high arches need more padding and cushioning,” advises Sutera. For bunions, “avoid stiff, pointy, and narrow toe boxes. Go up in width, if necessary. Any shoes that can accommodate delicate areas and are adjustable are a plus.”

Keep the activity in mind when selecting your footwear, as each style is specifically designed to aid and enhance your foot’s movement. And because we know you’re wondering: Running shoes can certainly be used for walking (but not vice versa), as running and walking shoes are both made for “forward motion,” says Sutera.

Without further ado, here are the most comfortable walking shoes to fit your active lifestyle, featuring tried-and-true brands like Hoka, Vionic, Nike, and New Balance. Goodbye, foot fatigue!

1

nike Waffle Debut Women's Shoe

Waffle Debut Women's Shoe
1

nike Waffle Debut Women's Shoe

$75 at Nike$75 at Dick's Sporting Goods$75 at Nordstrom
Credit: Nike

When you want a sneaker that'll take you seamlessly from your favorite studio fitness class to a day filled with errands around town, this cushy Nike style has got you covered. Available in a slew of fun colorways and in half sizes up to 12, this lightweight sneaker includes underfoot cushioning for ample comfort and flexibility.

2

Hoka Mach X Sneaker

Mach X Sneaker
2

Hoka Mach X Sneaker

Credit: Hoka

Hoka's lightweight running sneakers are suitable for walking both short and long distances. This pair, which has been approved by podiatrists for foot health, features a compression molded midsole for cushioning.

3
Best Walking Shoes for Everyday

New Balance WW840V3 Walking Sneaker

WW840V3 Walking Sneaker
3
Best Walking Shoes for Everyday

New Balance WW840V3 Walking Sneaker

Now 20% Off

With a chunky durable outsole, these New Balance kicks are designed specifically for walking on various surfaces. The breathable upper and cushioned insole will keep your feet satisfied all day.

Advertisement - Continue Reading Below
4

Vionic Walker Classic

Walker Classic
4

Vionic Walker Classic

Boasting a seal of approval from the American Podiatric Medical Association (APMA), this customer favorite walking shoe features a removable orthotic and a cushioned outsole.

5
Cloud-Like Walking Sneaker

On Cloud Sneaker

Cloud Sneaker
5
Cloud-Like Walking Sneaker

On Cloud Sneaker

Credit: On-Running

Swiss brand On is known for its sleek performance footwear, such as its signature Cloud design. With the lightweight foam for a cushioned landing and a molded heel cup for secure fit, these trainers are just as suitable for running as they are all-day walking.

6

Superga Cotu White Classic Sneaker

Cotu White Classic Sneaker
6

Superga Cotu White Classic Sneaker

Credit: Amazon

Step up your sneaker game with these classic white kicks from Superga. The canvas shoes are a favorite of Kate Middleton, who has been spotted wearing them on several occasions, including a visit to Canada, the London Marathon, and the Chelsea Flower Show. Her sister-in-law Meghan Markle loves 'em, too!

Advertisement - Continue Reading Below
7

Rothy's The Sneaker

The Sneaker
7

Rothy's The Sneaker

Skip the “breaking in” phase of shoe-wearing with these fun leopard print slip-ons. This sustainably made (and machine washable) knit style is good-to-go straight from the box. P.S.: Meghan Markle is a fan of the brand.

8

Allbirds Tree Skippers

Tree Skippers
8

Allbirds Tree Skippers

Now 60% Off
Credit: Allbirds

Looking for a sustainable brand? Allbirds sneakers are made from sugar, wool, and fibers sourced from trees. Ever functional, this low-profile, flexible pair is ideal for warmer weather and is perfect for travel when you need something light (and machine-washable).

9

Easy Spirit Romy Sneaker

Romy Sneaker
9

Easy Spirit Romy Sneaker

Now 32% Off
Credit: Amazon

Comfort shoe brand Easy Spirit offers a selection of walking shoes and one of its most popular styles is this sneaker. Available in a plethora of colors and widths (even for extra wide feet), they are extra supportive thanks to the removable cushioned liner, padded collar, and durable outsole.

Advertisement - Continue Reading Below
10

Brooks Addiction Walker 2 Sneaker

Addiction Walker 2 Sneaker
10

Brooks Addiction Walker 2 Sneaker

Credit: Zappos

For the moments you don't feel like lacing up, opt for a style with tab closures. This leather Brooks design has arch support for stability and a removable insole to accommodate orthotics.

11

Ryka Echo Knit Slip-on Sneaker

Echo Knit Slip-on Sneaker
11

Ryka Echo Knit Slip-on Sneaker

Credit: Ryka

It doesn't get easier than this knit slip-on pair (also available in wide), which conceals an insole with ample arch and heel support. Plus, the bottoms are grooved for extra traction so you can take your walk worry-free.

12
Best Retro-Inspired Walking Shoes

Madewell Kickoff Trainer in Color-Block Leather

Kickoff Trainer in Color-Block Leather
12
Best Retro-Inspired Walking Shoes

Madewell Kickoff Trainer in Color-Block Leather

Credit: Madewell

And now, for an old-school look infused with all the modern technology to support your feet. This sustainable shoe is made with recycled cotton and leather, and features Madewell’s super-cushy Cloudlift insoles.

Advertisement - Continue Reading Below
13
Most Durable Walking Sneakers

Merrell Alpine Sneaker

Alpine Sneaker
13
Most Durable Walking Sneakers

Merrell Alpine Sneaker

Now 20% Off
Credit: Merrell

These suede and nylon trainers give off major retro vibes. With their removable contoured footbed and a durable outsole for grippy traction, you’ll be walking the walk in no time. The toughest part will be choosing just one of the four fun colorways available.

14

Sorel Out N About III Low Sneaker Waterproof

Out N About III Low Sneaker Waterproof
14

Sorel Out N About III Low Sneaker Waterproof

Credit: Sorel

Don’t let rainy days stop your outdoor activities. Sorel’s waterproof lace sneakers, crafted in suede and breathable mesh, are built to keep you dry.

15
Most Stylish Walking Shoes

FitFlop Rally Sneaker

Rally Sneaker
15
Most Stylish Walking Shoes

FitFlop Rally Sneaker

Credit: Zappos

Lightweight and roomy (ideal for wide fit), these metallic sneakers have an ergonomic footbed that hugs your arches, as well as a slip-resistant bottom. Plus, the stylish metallic fabric will help you shine.

Advertisement - Continue Reading Below
16

Tiosebon Athletic Walking Shoe

Athletic Walking Shoe
16

Tiosebon Athletic Walking Shoe

Now 32% Off

Meet one of the top-selling pairs of walking shoes on Amazon. Customers agree that the breathable mesh upper and flexible rubber sole are a winning combination. It also comes in a plethora of fun colors so you can take your pick.

17

Dr. Scholl’s Shoes Wander Up Sneaker

Wander Up Sneaker
17

Dr. Scholl’s Shoes Wander Up Sneaker

Credit: Amazon

You can’t go wrong with a versatile "greige" color slip-on sneaker, especially when it features cool-fit memory foam and flexible elastic gore panels.

With more than 72,000 reviews on Amazon, this lightweight slip-on (also available in narrow and wide fit) is a bestseller for a reason. Designed specifically for walking, the shoes feature a high rebound insole and ample cushioning to help you hit your stride. Get going!

Advertisement - Continue Reading Below
19

BZees Jupiter Slip-On Sneaker

Jupiter Slip-On Sneaker
19

BZees Jupiter Slip-On Sneaker

Think of these like a Mary Jane flat-meets-sneaker hybrid. The stretchy strap keeps your foot secure, while a memory foam footbed with arch support provides relief.

Lettermark
Paula Lee
Freelance Fashion Editor

Paula Lee is a freelance Fashion Editor. Off duty, she can be found day-tripping around the tri-state area, hanging around farm animals, or browsing the library stacks.

Watch Next
 
preview for Oprah Daily US - Style Playlist

Summer Ideas and Essentials

best luggage suitcases

The Best Luggage for International Travel

best pajamas for women 2023 oprah daily

The Best PJ’s to Kick Off Your Evening Routine

most comfortable wedding shoes 2023

Comfortable Wedding Shoes to Dance in All Night

nordstrom anniversary sale clothes fashion retail

The Final Markdowns: Nordstrom’s Anniversary Sale

Advertisement - Continue Reading Below
Advertisement - Continue Reading Below
Logo
twitter icon
facebook icon
instagram icon
pinterest icon
Hearst Lifestyle and Design Group

We may earn commission from links on this page, but we only recommend products we back.

©2023 Oprah Daily LLC. All rights reserved.

Privacy NoticeYour CA Privacy Rights/Shine the LightDAA Industry Opt OutCA Notice at CollectionTerms of UseSite Map
Cookies Choices