Since the first Fitbit debuted in 2009, hitting 10,000 steps per day has become a standard of health. The number itself is kind of arbitrary; in fact, a September 2021 study published in the journal Nutrition, Obesity, and Exercise found that people who took at least 7,000 steps a day were 50 to 70% less likely of dying during the study period than those who took less than 7,000. Earlier research from the Harvard Medical School found that even 4,400 steps per day are enough to lower mortality. The point is, walking — in addition to other forms of exercise — is hugely important for your health.
To log all those steps, though, you're going to need a supportive sneaker. Flimsy shoes with little arch support like ballet flats, flip-flops with barely any support, and shoes you can easily bend or twist aren't going to do your feet any favors. Today's walking shoes are similar to running and cross-training shoes in that they offer breathability, cushioning, and support; they just come in slightly more casual styles. But it's still important to choose the right fit for your foot — and any foot injuries you have — over style.
Just like with any functional shoe, there’s no “best” one-size-fits-all option; the best shoe for you is the one that feels good on your feet. That might take some trial and error, so try on as many as possible (and walk around in them!) to decide for yourself — don’t blindly rely on a friend’s recommendation or what a salesperson tells you.
When you’re shopping, “make sure to take a close look at both ends of the shoe,” advises Davis Koh, a physical therapist and certified strength and conditioning specialist based in Irvine, California. "The heel should be narrow enough to lock your heel into the shoe so it doesn't slide, and the toe box should be wide enough that the edges of your feet don't feel compressed, which can hamper normal foot mechanics and/or angle the forefoot in such a way as to cause bunions."
P.S. You may be used to going barefoot and wearing flat sandals during the warmer months, too, but if you're doing quite a bit of walking, or walking is a part of your exercise routine, you should invest in a sturdy sneaker and save those lifestyle shoes for less active days. Lace up these top-rated walking shoes for women to keep your toes (and heels) happy.
New Balance has long been one of the most trusted makers of comfortable walking shoes, and the Ralaxa V2 is no exception. Thanks to the company's Cush+ sole technology, these babies are soft and responsive while still remaining durable and dependable (as you would expect from anything by New Balance).
Whether you need something for longer-distance walks or just want a solid pair of everyday grocery-shopping shoes, these will do the trick.
These walking shoes can pull double duty on sidewalks or trails. For long, smooth distances, there’s shock-absorbing gel in the rearfoot and a midsole that adds rebound while increasing the shoe’s durability.
On uneven terrain, two different density midsole materials keep the foot from overpronating, aka rolling inwards, along with a hidden plastic component in the midfoot that adds stability and keeps your feet from twisting as you navigate roots and rocks.
Hoka is known for its chunky soles — and the comfort they offer.
With EVA foam in the midsole, a memory-foam collar, and soft lining on the tongue, it feels like your foot is encased in a giant pillow. But it's a pillow that won’t slow you down, because the shoe also has the brand’s signature Meta Rocker design that propels you forward.
Updated with water-resistant leather and a slip-resistant outsole tested against industry standards, this shoe was built to work with you as long as you’re on your feet.
Comfort doesn’t always have to mean extra padding and thick soles. This skinny outsole is made of durable and elastic cushioning that doubles the effect of shock absorption, so you barely feel the impact of the street beneath you — which also means it’s extra protective on your joints.
Offered in more than 20 colorways to match your favorite activewear, the slip-on knit upper is super breathable, so there’s no risk of sweaty (smelly) feet.
Look fresh all day long, regardless of your venture, with these versatile athletic shoes that are made for walking a few miles, heading to the gym for general cross-training, or just running errands.
Available in seven different colorways and built for extended wear, these will have your feet feeling good and looking sleek, no matter the occasion.
From a brisk morning walk around the neighborhood to a day schlepping around town, you'll be tempted to reach for these kicks every time you know you'll be on your feet for hours.
These lightweight, flexible sneaks by Skechers will keep you comfy and cute. The breathable knit fabric will make you feel like you're wearing cozy slippers, but the durable soles will keep you sturdy on any ground.
Ignore the fact that “runners” is in the name; these stylish kicks are more appropriate for long walks than fast paces. Ethically made from merino wool, a naturally breathable and odor-minimizing material, they’re soft and flexible enough to conform to your stride without sacrificing support. And they’re machine-washable!
Fitness walkers need something that can handle long distances day after day, like these built-to-last kicks from Ryka. With the company's RE-ZORB midsole and an Anatomical Precise-Return insole that offers additional arch and heel support, you'll feel as though you're bouncing with each step, so you'll have more energy to go the extra mile (or three) without putting more stress on your feet.
You can’t beat a walking shoe with a sole made from memory foam. On top of that, the foam Skechers uses is “air-cooled” to keep your feet sweat-free on even your longest walks. Moreover, all that flexibility in the sole helps with the natural movement of your foot.
Dad shoes are still totally on-trend right now, and these classic white Sauconys fit the bill perfectly. But the only retro thing about them is the style; the compression-molded foam midsole that corrects overpronation, as well as the plush, full-grain leather upper with breathable mesh on the collar and tongue, are all modern features, providing the kind of updated comfort that helps you keep moving for miles.
Plus, you can wear them right out of the box without breaking them in — a level of comfort practically unheard of in the world of walking shoes.
Oofos’ shoes are all made for recovery, and these are no exception. The foam absorbs 37% more impact than traditional footwear, and the footbed is designed specifically to reduce stress on your joints. With a breathable, four-way stretch upper, they allow for more natural movement — and are the perfect thing to slip on post-run to give tired feet a break.
While they may look minimalist, these shoes are outfitted with Triple Max Air Moving Technology — a three-pod bladder that cushions each step and creates foot stimulation and arch support as you move, whether you’re walking or just on your feet all day.
Oh, and P.S., those laces are just there for aesthetic purposes; the stretchy knit upper slips on and will never rub.
These high-stack shoes offer a roomy feel with plenty of support, especially for those who need it in their arches. Dansko Natural Arch Plus technology keeps your feet from flattening out, and a shock-absorbing heel cushion and lifted toe work together so it feels like you’re walking on air from footstrike to pushoff.
Plus, the shoes are lined with anti-odor tech, so your feet won’t stink even when your pace goes up in intensity.
If you hate sneakers that rub your ankles raw, slip-ons are a no-brainer. But while most slipper-like shoes tend to be short on support, the sock-like upper on these has precision-made, seamless zones that support your foot exactly where it needs it most.
The Boost midsole also provides enough energy return to put some serious bounce in your step.
“Cloudstratus” should be a dead giveaway as to how comfy these kicks are. It’s the most cushioned support shoe yet from On Running — thanks to an extra layer of their CloudTec technology — and though they’re designed for half and full marathons, they’re so cute you’ll just want to just take 'em for a stroll.
These kicks were crafted to make even those with foot pain, especially from plantar fasciitis, super comfortable. The mesh upper provides plenty of breathing room, while the contoured arch offers plenty of support. We love the ombre effect on the rubber midsole, too!
You probably know Sorel for their comfy snow boots. These lightweight sneakers feel just as good on fair-weather days. The outsole-grade EVA foam, made with molded rubber, keeps your feet stable and supported during long walks, and the scalloped outsole allows them to easily navigate mixed terrain, from slick city streets to loose, rocky towpaths.
These aren't the infamous clogs Crocs is known for. Built for versatility, this “hybrid” shoe works for walking, running, and everyday wear.
With a lightweight foam midsole, durable foam outsole, and flexible uppers that barely need any breaking in, these sneakers make every step feel good. And they’ve still got that signature Crocs look — although the perforation is a liiittle more subtle.
Altra’s shoes are designed to look like feet — a novel concept in an industry of torpedo-shaped styles.
The foot-shaped toe box allows your toes to relax and spread out naturally for more comfort and stability, and the level midsole (where your toes and heel are an equal distance from the ground) encourages proper, low-impact form — it’s like walking barefoot, but with all the comfort and benefits of a plush and springy shoe made to protect your foot.
Though Brooks is known for running shoes, they also make great shoes for when you’re not pushing the pace. The brand’s BioMoGo DNA cushioning adapts to your stride, weight, and speed to deflect impact away from your body, and the shoes provide arch support to keep your whole body moving forward naturally. Plus, the shoes also come in wide — in every size and half-size, to suit every foot. Win-win-win!
Ashley MateoAshley Mateo is a writer, editor, and UESCA- and RRCA-certified running coach who has contributed to Runner’s World, Bicycling, Women's Health, Health, Shape, Self, and more.
Mara SantilliMara is a freelance writer and editor specializing in culture, politics, wellness, and the intersection between them, whose print and digital work has appeared in Marie Claire, Women’s Health, Cosmopolitan, Airbnb Mag, Prevention, and more.
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