Table of Contents

1. How to Choose the Best Women's Walking Shoes

2. What Makes Walking Shoes Different?

3. Finding the Right Walking Shoes

4. Choosing the Right Shoe

5. The Top Brands for Women's Walking Shoes

6. FAQ

7. Arch Supports for Women's Walking Shoes

8. Why Trust Lucky Feet Shoes?

9. Where to Shop for Women's Walking Shoes

Choosing the right walking shoes comes down to understanding your unique needs—whether it’s stability, cushioning, or a roomy, supportive fit. In this guide, we highlight our top brands for women’s walking shoes and what to look for when it comes to comfort, support, and style.

• New Balance is a go-to for walkers who want a combination of stability and cushioning. Their walking shoes often feature roomy toe boxes, motion-control options for overpronation, and durable midsoles built for long-distance comfort.

• Brooks walking shoes are engineered with biomechanics in mind. Their plush cushioning and breathable uppers provide a neutral ride with excellent shock absorption, making them perfect for everyday walking or longer strolls.

• HOKA shoes are known for their maximalist cushioning and lightweight design. Walkers love their soft, springy midsoles and smooth heel-to-toe transition, ideal for long walks or recovery days.

When it comes to walking, the right shoes make all the difference. You don’t need flashy gear, but you do need footwear that supports your feet—otherwise, discomfort or injury can quickly end your walk. This guide will help you understand what to look for in women’s walking shoes so you can stay comfortable, safe, and confident on your feet.

Walking shoes differ from running shoes in their design, cushioning, and fit. Walkers usually land on their heels first, unlike runners who strike with the midfoot. This difference means walking shoes don’t require the same flared or heavily-cushioned heel that running shoes offer. A good walking shoe should allow your forefoot to move naturally with each step. Too stiff of a forefoot can contribute to shin splints or foot discomfort.

Investing in shoes designed specifically for walking—not running shoes or casual sneakers—can prevent injury, reduce fatigue, and improve overall comfort. While they may cost more upfront, walking shoes pay off in long-term support for your feet, knees, hips, and back.

Overpronation: If your foot rolls inward too much while walking, you may need motion control shoes. These shoes provide a stable platform and are especially important for individuals with mobility concerns, weak hips or knees, or those who carry extra weight. A gait assessment at a specialty store can help determine if motion control or custom orthotics are needed.

Underpronation (Supination): Underpronation occurs when the foot doesn’t roll inward enough, causing the outer edge of the foot to bear more weight. This reduces shock absorption and can increase stress on your joints and muscles over time. Shoes with extra cushioning and flexibility can help absorb impact and reduce injury risk.

Proper walking shoes enhance balance, posture, and comfort, while ill-fitting shoes can increase your risk of injury. Specialty running or walking stores often provide biomechanical evaluations to recommend shoes suited to your foot structure.

STABILITY

For walkers without severe pronation issues, stability shoes help maintain proper alignment. To test a shoe’s stability:

• Bend the toe: The shoe should flex at the ball of the foot, not the arch.

• Twist the shoe: Moderate resistance indicates adequate support.

CUSHIONING

Long-distance walkers benefit from cushioned shoes. Cushioning levels range from minimal to maximum, but walking generally requires less heel padding than running. An evenly cushioned shoe often provides the best comfort.

FIT

Fit is the most important factor. Look for:

• Snug midfoot and heel

• Enough room in the toe box to wiggle your toes

• Proper length—consider half a size larger than casual shoes for comfort

• Trying shoes with socks or inserts you normally wear

Avoid shoes that feel tight or require “breaking in.” A proper fit from day one reduces the risk of blisters, pain, or long-term foot issues.

• Consider foot change with age: Feet can widen and arches may sag over time, affecting shoe fit.

• Match shoes to your foot shape: Square or round toe boxes provide more comfort for wider forefeet.

• Take a walk first: Test the shoes by walking around to ensure proper fit and support.

• Bring inserts if needed: Always try on shoes with the orthotics or insoles you use regularly.

1. What is the difference between walking shoes and running shoes?

2. How do I know if I overpronate or underpronate?
Overpronation occurs when your foot rolls inward too much, often requiring motion-control shoes. Underpronation (supination) happens when your foot rolls outward excessively, benefiting from extra cushioning. A gait assessment at a specialty shoe store is the most accurate way to determine your pronation type.

3. Can I wear casual sneakers for walking?
Some casual sneakers provide enough cushioning and support for short walks, but shoes specifically designed for walking or cross-training offer better arch support, shock absorption, and long-term comfort.

4. How should walking shoes fit?
A proper walking shoe should be snug in the midfoot and heel, with enough room in the toe box to wiggle your toes. It should feel comfortable from day one—avoid shoes that require “breaking in.”

5. Should I buy wider shoes or inserts for foot pain?
Yes! Walkers with bunions, plantar fasciitis, or wider feet often benefit from shoes available in multiple widths or custom orthotic inserts. Always try on shoes with any inserts you normally wear.

6. How much cushioning do I need in a walking shoe?
Cushioning needs depend on your walking distance and foot type. Long-distance walkers may prefer moderate to maximum cushioning, while casual walkers can often use evenly cushioned shoes with a lighter heel stack.

7. How often should I replace walking shoes?
Walking shoes should typically be replaced every 300–500 miles or once you notice a decrease in cushioning and support. Worn-out shoes can increase the risk of foot pain and injury.

8. Are all walking shoes good for foot problems like plantar fasciitis or bunions?
Not all shoes are created equal. Brands like New Balance, Brooks, Hoka, and Clarks offer walking shoes specifically designed to support common foot concerns while maintaining comfort and stability.

Finding the right sneaker can make all the difference when it comes to comfort, style, and foot health—especially if you’re dealing with bunions, plantar fasciitis, or other foot concerns. At Lucky Feet Shoes, we carry a wide selection of women’s walking shoes from top brands like New Balance, Brooks, HOKA, and more.

Our knowledgeable team is here to help you find the perfect fit with a free personalized foot scan and analysis, ensuring you get shoes that support your stride and reduce foot fatigue. Whether you shop online or visit one of our Southern California stores, you’ll discover high-quality walking shoes designed to keep you moving comfortably every step of the way. Find a store.