10 Best Walking Shoes Women 2025 in the United States

The Brooks Women’s Ghost 16 is a solid choice for women looking for a comfortable walking shoe that also works well for running and gym workouts. It features a secure and seamless fit thanks to the updated 3D Fit Print, which helps keep your foot comfortably in place. The shoe offers neutral arch support, making it suitable for those without specific foot issues needing extra correction. Its cushioning is soft and lightweight, using DNA Loft v3 foam that provides a gentle, smooth feel underfoot, which is great for long walks or runs without feeling heavy.

Breathability is well handled by the engineered air mesh upper, helping keep your feet cool and dry during activity. Weighing about 1.5 pounds, it’s reasonably light but not the lightest you can find. The RoadTack rubber outsole delivers good durability and traction, suitable for road surfaces and typical walking conditions, though it may not be the best for very rough or slippery trails. This shoe is also notable for being certified diabetic-friendly and has earned the APMA Seal of Acceptance, which means it’s designed with foot health in mind.

It offers a smooth transition from heel to toe, but people needing extra arch support or specialized stability might want to look for options better tailored to those needs. The Brooks Ghost 16 balances comfort, breathability, and reliable traction, making it a strong candidate for everyday walkers seeking a dependable, cushioned, and supportive shoe.

The Brooks Women’s Ghost Max 2 is a walking shoe designed for women who want maximum cushioning and a smooth, stable ride. It offers excellent protection with its thick, soft midsole foam that absorbs impact well, making it comfortable for long walks or runs. The shoe’s wide base and raised sidewalls provide good stability, helping keep your foot steady without feeling restrictive. It also has a unique design that supports smooth heel-to-toe movement, which can help prevent fatigue and reduce injury risk.

Fit-wise, it offers extra room to accommodate different foot shapes and orthotics, which is a plus if you need more space or custom inserts. While the material details mainly mention rubber for durability and sole grip, the shoe might feel a bit warm during very hot weather due to limited breathability. The shoe is not very lightweight because of its cushioning focus, so it may feel a bit heavier than minimalist walking shoes, but this trade-off benefits comfort and support. Traction is solid thanks to its rubber outsole, suitable for various surfaces you might walk on.

This shoe is well suited for women looking for a high-cushion, stable, and durable walking shoe, especially if comfort and protection are prioritized over lightness and extra ventilation.

The adidas Women's VL Court 3.0 Sneaker is a stylish choice for those seeking a casual walking shoe. One of its strengths is the soft suede upper, which gives it a classic and appealing look. The textile lining enhances comfort, making it suitable for extended wear. Additionally, the lightweight cushioning provided by the cushioned midsole ensures durable comfort with every step, which is beneficial for daily walks.

The vulcanized tooling not only adds a retro touch but also contributes to the shoe's resilience and traction on various surfaces, making it a reliable choice for different walking environments. However, it is important to note that these sneakers tend to run large, so it is advisable to size down by half for a better fit. While the shoe offers good cushioning and a comfortable feel, it may lack in specialized arch support, which could be a drawback for those with specific foot support needs.

Another consideration is that the suede material, while stylish, may not offer the best breathability compared to mesh alternatives, potentially making it less ideal for very warm climates or intense walking sessions. Lastly, being made of suede, it requires careful maintenance, including hand washing, to keep it in good condition. These sneakers are durable but may not be as lightweight as some other walking shoes on the market. The adidas Women's VL Court 3.0 Sneaker excels in style and comfort for casual use but may not be the best option for those seeking high-performance walking shoes with advanced support and breathability features.