Finding a pair of women’s walking shoes that provide uniform cushioning, good heel support, and durable construction is critical in keeping feet happy and healthy as you log daily steps. According to experts, such footwear should provide optimal foot health during their daily journey.
Jordan Metzl, a sports medicine physician, recommends trying on shoes in the late afternoon when your feet tend to be larger. Stretch and wiggle your toes for maximum comfort before placing the shoe in front of your foot – be sure it allows enough room for them to spread out as you step!
Comfort
Womens walking shoes can make the experience less of a workout and more of a pleasure. “Women’s walking shoes should be flexible with ample cushioning to absorb shock from hard surfaces,” according to podiatrist Suzanne Fuchs of Luxe Podiatry in Jupiter, Florida. Additionally, lightweight models featuring well-rounded toe boxes for accommodating wide feet may also prove ideal as long-term investments for regular wear and tear.
Consider the heel-to-toe drop as a measure of its overall comfort, especially for women suffering from plantar fasciitis or other foot and ankle conditions. A low or zero-drop shoe provides evenly distributed cushioning; conversely, higher drops raise more of the sole from its location on the heel, potentially placing additional pressure on your foot.
For maximum comfort, it’s best to choose a shoe with an easily bendable toe box and try flexing it to test how flexible it feels – your own foot’s flex point should match this point on the shoe, according to Maryland-based podiatrist Priya Parthasarathy, DPM. Additionally, make sure to try on your shoes at the end of each day when your feet have had time to swell before trying them on, says Dr Cunha; that way, you can be certain they fit comfortably while supporting them as you move throughout the day.
Style
Walking can be an excellent way to stay in shape, but wearing inappropriate footwear could cause foot and even back issues. That’s why The Good Housekeeping Institute collaborated with podiatrists in finding women’s sneakers that will support your feet all day long.
Altra offers Womens walking shoes that provide optimal cushioning and arch support in their wide variety of sizes (original, standard, and slim) so your feet fit comfortably. Each sneaker boasts an open heel-forefoot platform to align heel and forefoot while permitting toe wiggle room – plus, they come in fun colours!
New Balance shoes were also highly favoured among both podiatrists. Available in narrow, wide and extra-wide sizes to meet most foot types’ needs, the shoes feature a low heel drop (the distance between heel and toe), which reduces the pressure placed on heels – an essential feature for those suffering from plantar fasciitis.
Birkenstock sandals are popular among women and have been recommended by Criscione and Lobkova due to their excellent arch support and “gracious toe box.” Their flexible sole conforms perfectly to your foot, providing all-day comfort with their APMA seal of approval, ensuring long wearability.
Support
Walking can be an ideal alternative to running for those unable to run due to injury or those wanting a low-impact workout. Furthermore, walking has been shown to burn more calories than you realise! Unfortunately, though, footwear that does not support or fit properly may lead to foot issues such as arch pain and plantar fasciitis.
Footwear plays an essential role in foot health; however, experts advise adding flexibility and core strength exercises into your exercise regimen for increased stability and injury prevention. Wearing women’s walking sneakers that meet these criteria will also help minimise problems while providing optimal comfort when walking.
Durability
If you walk frequently for exercise or as part of your work or life, it’s essential that your shoes can keep pace. Replace walking sneakers every six to 10 months to reduce the risk of injury and ensure the healthiest feet possible.
Fitness professionals frequently recommend the Hoka Bondi 8 sneaker. These lightweight trainers feature a thick midsole of cushioning foam that cradles your foot and heel to support balance and an optional rocker bottom to absorb shock while helping your foot move naturally during walking.