16 Best Walking Shoes for Women, Recommended by Podiatrists

• Pros: Shock-absorbing-gel heel cushioning eases pain; has narrow and wide sizing; has APMA Seal of Acceptance
• Cons: Rather bulky

“Asics’s gel cushioning is amazing for shock absorption, which really helps if your plantar fasciitis foot pain flares up from impact,” says Sean Ormond, MD, a dual board-certified physician in anesthesiology and interventional pain management, who recommends the Nimbus 27 as a walking shoe for flat feet (or for anyone who underpronates, as it has extra arch support and its design softens the landing of the outer side of the heel as it hits the ground). The APMA–approved running sneaker has a soft, stretchy tongue that doesn’t dig into the top of the foot when you move, and Shital Sharma, DPM, CEO, a board-certified foot and ankle surgeon, appreciates that you can easily slot a custom insole or orthotic insert into these shoes.

Type: Sneaker | Heel drop: 8 mm | Shoe weight: 9.3 oz. | Cushioning: Maximum | Width options: Regular, narrow, wide | Closure type: Lace-up | Sizes: 5–13 | Colors: 15+

• Pros: Easy to style; not too bulky; no break-in period required; come in many colorways
• Cons: Suede is tough to clean; doesn't have extreme cushioning that may be best for plantar fasciitis

This iconic New Balance shoe is a reliable, everyday walking sneaker that’s stylish, versatile, and a celeb favorite (spotted on the likes of Emily Ratajkowski). The cushioned midsole provides steady support for errands, commuting, and standing, while its suede-and-mesh upper keeps things breathable. With its lower-profile design and moderate cushioning, the 574 is less bulky than many popular walking sneakers like Hokas, so it translates seamlessly from casual outfits to dressier digs, styled with a button-up and trousers for work, or a silk slip skirt for a more formal look.

Multiple Glamour staffers swear by them, for weekend, as travel shoes, and as work shoes. “I wore these 24/7 while on a city break in Barcelona, and they didn't let me down in the slightest – no pinching, breaking-in, rubbing, blistering, or slipping. They're a nice in-between shape of all the chunky and plimsole sneakers that are trending at the moment, too,” says Glamour UK senior commerce writer Georgia Trodd.

“Usually I just slip my feet in and go, which makes it the perfect walk-to-work shoe,” says Glamour executive assistant and writer Monique Wilson. “It comes in so many different colors that you’re bound to find one that works for you. The only con is the suede material, which makes it unique compared to other sneakers, but also hard to clean. Despite that, it’s a staple in my closet.”

Type: Sneaker | Heel drop: 0.5 in. | Heel height: 1.5 in. | Shoe weight: 9.6 oz. | Cushioning: Moderate | Width options: Standard, wide | Closure type: Lace-up | Sizes: 5–12 | Colors: 5+

• Pros: Has extra-wide option; has APMA Seal of Acceptance and 2025 Runner's World Shoe Award
• Cons: Not the best choice for high arches

“These Brooks sneakers are giving my Hokas a run for their money as the best running shoes,” says Glamour commerce editor Malia Griggs of the APMA–approved GTS 22 shoes. “My marathoner friend turned me on to them as a smart pick for my flat, wide feet. My old sneakers squeezed my feet in a way that made them burn a bit, but I don't have that problem with these. They fit beautifully, leaving no fatigue on my soles even after long runs, and are comfy and bouncy enough that I wear them for walking. I like their pull tab in the back too—they are simple to take on and off, no re-lacing required.”

Type: Sneaker | Heel drop: 10 mm | Heel height: 1.5 in. | Shoe weight: 9.5 oz. | Cushioning: Maximum | Width options: Standard, wide, extra wide | Closure type: Lace-up | Sizes: 5–12 | Colors: 4

• Pros: Deep heel cup to keep your foot in place; contoured foam footbed; has wide sizing; has APMA Seal of Acceptance
• Cons: Narrow toe box

A pair of charming loafers with the APMA’s Seal of Approval? Count us in. With an elevated heel and shock-absorbing, contoured-foam footbed, the comfy Uptown loafer is ready for walking. “I highly recommend this shoe because of the timeless style and all the embedded foot-loving technology,” says podiatrist Jacqueline M. Sutera, DPM, who works with Vionic as a medical consultant and rocks these loafers herself. “I wore it for the first time to an event where I was on my feet and walking around for over four hours. Since then I have worn them to work several times and they have become even more comfortable.” The shoes have a variety of materials and colors to choose from, including leather and suede, and a light, durable rubber outsole.

Type: Loafer | Heel drop: 3 mm | Heel height: 1.12 in. | Shoe weight: 17 oz. | Cushioning: Minimal | Width options: Medium, wide | Closure type: Slip-on | Sizes: 5–13 | Colors: 18

• Pros: Minimalist style; wide toe box gives extra stability; grippy rubber sole
• Cons: May not feel cushy enough for some (like someone with flatter feet)

Swiss-based On shoes have been trendy for a few years now, and they’re especially appealing if you’re dealing with plantar fasciitis or need extra heel stability. Unlike Hokas and other walking shoes with extra cushioning, On styles have a lower stack height but still offer a deep heel cup and solid arch support to help relieve pressure on the plantar fascia.

Several of our contributors love On Cloudpulse’s style. “The wide toe box gives me plenty of space to feel grounded in any activity, with really nice support and shock absorption, and the stiff heel counter keeps my foot locked in,” says Glamour contributor Jennifer Heimlich. Its sleeker body makes them ideal for all-day treks across cobblestones in new cities—without adding bulk to your baggage.

“When I first tried this shoe, I had to spend some time getting used to the structured feel, but I realized that it does have great heel support and it’s now my go-to shoe for the gym,” says Glamour contributor Alex Frost. “The Cloudpulse in particular has specific lateral support features, making you feel more stable as you move side to side, something I do in my fitness class. So keep these in mind if you want a more minimalist feel without the massive bulk and cushioning vibes—plus, they have some super-cute colors.”

Type: Sneaker | Heel drop: 6 mm | Shoe weight: 9.28 oz. | Cushioning: Moderate | Sizes: 5–11 | Width Option: Medium | Closure type: Lace-up | Colors: 5+

• Pros: Slips on and off easily with pull tab; lightweight; moisture-wicking
• Cons: Suede and leather are not best-suited materials for all-day outdoors

Sorel’s Kinetic is one of the lightest-weight sneakers on our list, with a springy feel underfoot that holds up to long days of standing and walking. The sweat-wicking mesh upper helps keep feet cool, while a pull tab at the heel makes it easy to slip on and off. Suede and leather detailing and its unique wavy sole give the sneaker a more polished, work-ready look than a typical athletic shoe.

“I was already a fan of Sorel because they make my favorite walking sandals, so I wasn’t surprised these were just as comfortable,” says Glamour deputy editor Anna Moeslin. “They’re incredibly light, hug my feet, and—cliché as it sounds—they really do feel like walking on air. I also like their look: the sole has a cool, interesting design without being so bold that it feels over-the-top.”

Type: Sneaker | Heel height: 1 in. | Shoe weight: 10.2 oz. | Cushioning: Maximum | Width options: Standard | Closure type: Lace-up | Sizes: 5–12 | Colors: 5

• Pros: Exceptionally wide toe box lets toes breathe; rocker-style sole propels foot forward; has APMA Seal of Acceptance
• Cons: Narrow midfoot; cushioning is very firm

If you’re logging many hours on your feet, having extra space up front can make a big difference. Altra running shoes are known for their especially roomy forefoots, which let your toes spread naturally (a godsend for anyone with bunions, hammer toes, or neuromas). The Altras are a favorite of Dr. Sharma’s. “People with flat feet often benefit from shoes that offer a wide fit, especially in the toe box,” she says. Rocker-style soles make it easier to move through each stride, and at just around 7 oz., these feel light even after a full day of standing and walking.

“I love these shoes because my feet don’t feel crammed, my toes can wiggle, my foot doesn’t feel scrunched on the sides, they make my back and hips feel supported, and I want to walk,” Glamour reviewer Francoise Bentley says. She loves their lightweight feel, sturdy arch support, ample space in the toe box, and the bounce she feels every time she takes a step. “I had no idea that was possible in a sneaker. I’ve worn them for years since, and now so do my kids.”

Type: Sneaker | Heel drop: 4 mm | Shoe weight: 7.2 oz. | Cushioning: Moderate | Width option: Medium | Closure type: Lace-up | Sizes: 5.5–12 | Colors: 5+

• Pros: Roomy toe box offers plenty of space for your toes; rocker sole; slides on and off easily; has APMA Seal of Acceptance
• Cons: May feel stiff or hard if you’re not used to the design; much heavier than a sneaker

Danskos are some of the best shoes for arch support, says podiatrist Tara Parks, DPM, who wears the clogs to work and its dressy sandals to weddings. The shoes have a contoured insole, a spacious toe box, and a soft leather upper that molds to your foot as you wear it. “Their supportive footbed and rocker sole promote a natural walking motion,” says Suzanne C. Fuchs, DPM, board-certified podiatrist and sports-medicine specialist in Florida. It’s a go-to pick for people who stand on their feet all day, such as medical professionals, teachers, and those who work in the restaurant industry. We like these clogs, which are stylish enough to wear with a dress, and are made of a versatile nubuck leather that becomes more supple with age.

“When I work in the hospital, I love my Danskos,” says Sara Shobin, a nurse practitioner at Intermountain Healthcare in Salt Lake City. Her pair (the light tan-honey color) is so old that she can’t even remember when she got them, so you can rest assured these podiatrist-approved and nurse-approved slip-ons will hold up for years to come. The toe box is nice and roomy (no cramming or hot spots), and the inner frame provides the kind of stability Dr. Fuchs says all walking shoes should have so that you won’t roll your ankle.

Type: Clog | Heel drop: 26 mm | Shoe weight: 17 oz. | Cushioning: Minimal | Width options: Regular, wide | Closure type: Slip-on | Sizes: 4.5–13 | Colors: 20+ (on Dansko.com)

• Pros: Under $75; casual, timeless design; wide toe box; has APMA Seal of Acceptance
• Cons: Limited colorways

Bruce Pinker, DPM, a foot and ankle surgeon at Progressive Footcare in New York City, says that people with wide feet need to be careful to seek out a pair of walking shoes with enough room in the forefoot “to prevent cramping of the toes.” These editor- and Taylor Swift–approved New Balance shoes offer plenty of breathing room for all foot shapes and sizes, even if you’ve got bunions. The cushioning is balanced, supportive, and very durable. We also like that they quite literally go with everything: Pair them with your favorite white jeans or flared leggings—either way you’ll look great.

“When I say I’ve lived in my New Balance 530s for the past 18 months, you best believe I can count on one hand the number of outings I’ve been on without them,” says Glamour senior European commerce editor Sophie Cockett. “I’ve got them in two colors—the silver-navy colorway and the powder blue—and I find they go with everything. Jeans, my go-to tailored trousers, leggings. I even wear them to the gym when I’m doing weights or upper-body work.”

For a more cushioned New Balance option, consider the Fresh Foam 1080s, which Glamour contributor and marathoner Jenny McCoy swears by for both long-distance running and casual neighborhood strolling.

Type: Sneaker | Heel drop: 11.9 mm | Heel height: 2 in. | Shoe weight: 10.9 oz. | Cushioning: Moderate | Sizes: 5.5–12 | Width options: Regular, wide (D) | Closure type: Lace-up | Colors: 2

• Pros: Cushioning and stability reduces strain on joints; midsole design helps prevent overpronation; has APMA Seal of Acceptance
• Cons: Some wearers find the toe-box area to be small

For her own long walks, Dr. Fuchs reaches for the Asics Gel-Kayano, which boasts thick, soft cushioning plus stability features. Brooke Taylor, personal trainer and owner of Taylored Fitness NY, is also a fan, describing it as “one of my all-time favorite sneakers for anyone who overpronates or needs extra stability—whether you’re strength training, walking, or hiking,” she tells Glamour. The Kayano, she explains, delivers a winning combo of support and responsive cushioning “that absorbs impact and reduces strain on your joints.”

Taylor also loves how the structured midsole helps keep feet in a neutral position, which can prevent excessive inward rolling of the ankle (a motion known as overpronation, something people with flat feet are more inclined to do) and reduce chances of discomfort in the knees, hips, and lower back. “This shoe supports proper alignment and keeps you moving pain-free, which is why I highly recommend it to all of my clients,” she says.

Type: Sneaker | Heel drop: 8 mm | Shoe weight: 9.2 oz. | Cushioning: Maximum | Width options: Narrow, standard, wide | Closure type: Lace-up | Sizes: 5–13 | Colors: 15+

• Pros: Cushioned heel reduces impact on joints; on-trend design; versatile for multiple activities
• Cons: Tongue may dig into foot; no wide sizing

A shoe trend that we’re loving is chunky platform sneakers, especially 2000s-era silver ones that you can pair with white maxi skirts or flowy white dresses. Apart from looking great, according to Dr. Fuchs, the cushioning in the heel is essential in a good walking shoe because it helps reduce the impact on the feet and joints when you lace up for serious mileage. That’s particularly true if you suffer from a condition like plantar fasciitis.

“When I know I’ll be out and about all day but I want a sneaker that will look cute with my favorite wide-leg jeans, I wear my Nike V2K Runs. (I can’t get enough of the translucent and metallic overlay details!),” says Glamour contributor Hannah Singleton. “I’ve racked up almost 15 miles in one day in these, and my feet always feel fresh because the heel has plenty of cushion. They stand up to heavy wear and are versatile enough that I use them for light workouts too.” Bonus: Singleton says they’re both durable and versatile. “They stand up to heavy wear, and I use them for light workouts too.”

Type: Sneaker | Heel drop: 12.8 mm | Shoe weight: 11.11 oz. | Cushioning: Maximum | Width option: Regular | Closure type: Lace-up | Sizes: 5–16.5 | Colors: 15+

• Pros: Footbed molds to sole; stylish gold buckles; great for walking across stone, sand, etc.; easy slip-on design
• Cons: Break-in period needed

Ettore Vulcano, MD, an orthopedic surgeon specializing in foot and ankle issues at Mount Sinai in New York City, recommends these Birk slides to patients. “They don’t bend too much, and are nice and sturdy,” he says. They’re a perennial favorite comfortable walking sandal among Glamour editors and contributors, too, because of how their cork footbeds contour and cradle your foot over time—and how cute they are, especially with glitzy gold buckles like these. “I’ve worn Birkenstocks since I was a kid,” says Griggs. “They break in quickly and mold to my wide, flat feet. Slipping one on feels like such relief, and I’ve worn them across various environments in the world.”

“As a writer, I often go on short trips for work and these Birkenstocks will be the only shoes I bring with me,” says freelance writer Melissa Kravitz Hoeffner. “I can comfortably wear them for miles of walking in cities, on easy hikes, on beach walks, and on the plane with socks. They match with pretty much every outfit, and they’ll serve as my going-out shoes too. I’ve worn them for a week in Paris, all over California, and they’re my go-tos at home in New York. I’m a big walker and usually get the bottoms replaced at my local cobbler’s once or twice a year. I’ve bought these Arizonas for over a decade and replace them every few years.”

Type: Sandal | Heel drop: 0 mm | Shoe weight: 9 oz. | Cushioning: Moderate | Sizes: 5–10.5 | Width Option: Narrow | Closure type: Slide-on (with adjustable buckles) | Colors: 5+

• Pros: Waterproof; easy to slide on; keeps out moisture; streamlined aesthetic
• Cons: Rubber cracks on top after a lot of regular wear; no half-sizes

This garden clog marries the practicality of a British welly with the ease of a modern slip-on. Made from vegan rubber, it’s waterproof without looking overly utilitarian, thanks to its streamlined clog silhouette. The cushioned sole offers enough support for extended waterlogged schelps (without water creeping in), and the loop on its heel helps pull it on.

“I first bought these to wear for rainy days because I was tired of pulling on boots and wanted something I could just slide on, but I find myself wearing these even on days when there’s no clouds in sight," says Griggs. "I like the streamlined clog aesthetic, how no moisture gets in, and their lightly cushioned soles that feels sponge-like. I’ve worn them to walk for hours with no problem. The only note is that after two years of regular use, the rubber started cracking a bit, so I had to buy a second pair. Still, someone get them for me in rubber-ducky yellow?”

Type: Clog | Cushioning: Moderate | Width options: Standard | Closure type: Slip-on | Sizes: 5–11 | Colors: 5+

• Pros: Strong ankle support; waterproof; keeps out cold and moisture in all weather; lightweight
• Cons: Clunky for daily walking

When walking involves trekking across boulders and streams, turn to these hiking boots. They offer a balance between street style and trail-ready performance. Built to handle trails and sidewalks, the Danners are waterproof, comfortable, and surprisingly stylish. The suede upper gives them a classic look, while the grippy rubber sole helps you stay steady on everything from dirt paths to rainy cobblestones. A soft, supportive footbed and lightweight feel make them easy to wear all day—whether you’re hiking in the woods or just running errands around town.

“These are the hiking shoes I turn to when I hit the trail, but they’re also lightweight, waterproof, and pretty enough to serve as rain and snow boots too,” says Griggs. “Their high-cut design stabilizes my ankle from rolling when I trip on a loose stone, and they keep cold and moisture effectively out. I let my friend borrow them hiking in the Scottish Highlands, and she came back such a fan that she bought her own pair.”

Type: Hiking boot | Heel drop: Not listed | Heel height: 5 in. Shoe weight: 29 oz. per pair | Cushioning: Maximum | Width option: Medium | Closure type: Lace-up | Sizes: 5–10 | Colors: 5