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Add The New York Post on Google Whether you’re always on your feet at work but need more comfortable heels, we’ve got you. But more importantly, having support and comfort when walking all day is our number one concern.
While many experts will say that shopping for walking shoes online isn’t as ideal as going into your local shoe shop to try them on in person, sometimes going into the store isn’t always possible. Be that time, convenience, or even laziness, we’ve got you covered. There are plenty of sneaker stores to shop online, including top brands like Hoka, New Balance and Nike.
Taking the time to find the best pair of women’s walking tennis shoes and running shoes for your foot type can mean all the difference.
To narrow down the best picks, we spoke with Dr. Miguel Cunha, a podiatrist and founder of Gotham Footcare in New York City. We also asked members of the Post Wanted team to give their recommendations.
Check out the FAQ to learn more about what design features to look for when shopping. We have everything from Brooks to Hoka comparisons, and stylish designer shoes, too.
“This mule silhouette lets you slip them on and head out instantly, eliminating the hassle of laces or stiff heels on your daily commute. I can’t believe how comfortable they are; I’ve made them my new go-to slip-on shoe, replacing my Birkenstock clogs. I own the white pair and got nervous when my dog put her muddy paws all over them, but they wiped clean instantly with soap and water. I cannot recommend these shoes enough. They are the perfect traveling shoe for when you want to look cute but also stay comfortable while visiting the sights.” – Emma Sutton-Williams, former commerce reporter
Emma Sutton-Williams Stack height: n/a | Weight: n/a | Drop: n/a | Colors: 3 | Sizes: 5-13
Lululemon Pros: Great for all-activity wear Breathable, supportive and secure fit Cons: They may not be the best for extremely rainy and severe weather conditions if you choose the white option We love Lululemon anything and its walking shoes are no exception. The Chargefeel Running Shoe is extremely comfortable, has a supportive sole and is breathable for these summer days.
Victoria McDonnell, our content strategist and commerce writer, adores her Lululemon sneakers* and swears by their comfort for walking and jogging.
Victoria Giardina “Even on uneven terrain, they held up well and didn’t falter,” she explained. “Something I appreciate, though I’m typically a US 8 in sizing, is they’re quite a generous size range…They’re everything I look for in a sneaker and are well worth the investment.”
*Editor’s Note: McDonnell is wearing the Chargefeel 2 Sneakers
Stack height: n/a | Weight: 8 ounces | Drop: 6 mm | Colors: 6 | Sizes: 5-12
Step into chic street style and extra soft cushioning with the Nike Air Max 270, Nike’s first lifestyle Air Max sneaker designed with comfort and attitude in mind. Inspired by classic Air Max models, this sleek silhouette features a striking visible Air unit, delivering plush support with every step.
New York Post Review: “I’m not a huge fan of sporty sneakers, but I’ll make an exception for my Nike Air Max 270s. These are easily the comfiest walking shoes I own. Mesh details provide top-notch ventilation, and a stretchy inner sleeve cradles your foot without over-compressing, kind of like a sock. I measure how comfy shoes are based on how badly I want to kick them off the second I walk in the door, and with these Nike’s, it’s often the last thing I think about. They have trekked from parks to gyms to airports and all between, without faltering. They’re not too bad to look at either, at least as far as walking shoes go.” – Miska Salemann, commerce reporter
Stack height: n/a | Weight: 10.55 ounces | Drop: n/a | Colors: 14 | Sizes: 5-12
This ultralight construction reduces fatigue, allowing the wearer to log extra miles without the heavy, dragging sensation common in traditional walking shoes. This signature cushioning provides a soft, cloud-like landing. It absorbs impact effectively, protecting joints from the repetitive stress of hard pavement.
New York Post Review: “As a certified Disney Adult, the way I typically put a new sneaker to the test is by seeing how well it holds up during a trip where I’m walking over 20,000 steps every day. That’s how my love for the On Cloud was born.” – Angela Tricarico, commerce streaming reporter
“I had the easiest time breaking these in, and they’re so light and comfortable. The footbed made of zero-gravity foam is stable but bouncy, providing flexibility throughout the entire shoe. Gone are the days of rigid, structured sneakers. I’m not sure I’ll ever buy another brand again — that’s how impressed I am with these.” — Tricarico
Stack height: N/A | Weight: 216.0g | Drop: 8.0 mm | Colors: 16 | Sizes: 5-12
Amazon Pros: Most comfortable sneaker among all tested Easy-to-clean material Excellent for walking around for plenty of hours consecutively Cons: Some people who are taller may not prefer or desire the platform, though not a dealbreaker Among all the white sneakers tested, Dr. Scholl’s Time Off Sneaker is the unanimous pair we want to wear 24/7. In terms of comfort, style and plush support, these shoes are quite unmatched.
“These were my go-to shoes before a West Coast vacation where I walked all around Los Angeles, San Diego, San Francisco and Napa Valley,” said Victoria McDonnell, commerce writer and content strategist. “I couldn’t imagine going without these shoes for hours at a time, walking around on sidewalks and uneven terrain at vineyards.”
What’s more, Angela Tricarico, New York Post commerce writer/reporter, swears by the shoes. “After buying and wearing the Dr. Scholl’s Time Off sneaker for long days walking around the city and commuting, I’m not sure I’ll ever wear another sneaker — that’s how obsessed I am with these sneakers,” she said. “I wear them to work, I wear them out at night, I’ve brought them on walking-heavy vacations — these even got me through hours of standing and dancing at the Eras Tour! They’re comfortable in a way I rarely find in sneakers that also look cute with any outfit, thanks to cushioned insoles and arch support.”
Stack height: 1.58 | Weight: 1.2 ounces | Drop: n/a | Colors: 25+ | Sizes: 5-13
“These shoes are the most cushioned shoes in the HOKA road-shoe line and are one of the most comfortable shoes around. The Bondi SR line has a thick well-padded EVA foam midsole that makes long walks comfortable with every step,” Cunha told The Post.
Available in both black and white and ideal for daily life. These sneakers are recently updated with water-resistant leather and a slip-resistant outsole. These are by far women’s most comfortable walking shoes.
Stack height: 39.4 | Weight: 11.50 ounces | Drop: 6.0 mm | Colors: 5 | Sizes: 5-11
New York Post Review: “Brooks are now my go-to shoes for city walking. I used to avoid wearing tennis shoes while traveling for fear of sacrificing style, but the Brooks Glycerin changed that. These are hands-down the most comfortable shoes I’ve ever worn for exploring a city. I chose the black pair, which paired effortlessly with everything in my suitcase. Thanks to their nitrogen-infused DNA LOFT cushioning and flexible knit upper, I was able to walk from morning to night without the usual foot fatigue. They’re lightweight, packable, and versatile enough to double as running shoes. Plus, if black isn’t your vibe, they come in a range of colors. I highly recommend this for anyone with knee issues and need that extra padding in their life.” – Emma Sutton-Williams, commerce reporter
If you prefer running over walking, look into these amazing women’s running shoes, according to podiatrists.
Emma Sutton-Williams Stack height: N/A | Weight: 9.5 ounces | Drop: 8 mm | Colors: 20 | Sizes: 5 – 12 X-wide
Your search for the perfect everyday white sneakers ends here. The classic silhouette of Adidas’ Stan Smith can be worn with almost anything, and are comfortable enough to wear walking all day.
“I reach for my Stan Smiths day after day, year after year for everything from casual errands to office outfits,” Meaghan Roche, senior SEO manager, shared after wearing the sneakers for months. “The outer material is super easy to clean — oh so important with white sneakers, with a Magic Eraser, and a little elbow grease being my preferred method of cleaning.”
Meaghan Roche Overall, these sneakers stand the test of time. Not only are they extremely durable for even daily use but the style is timeless.
Stack height: n/a | Weight: 11 ounces | Drop: n/a | Colors: 1+ | Sizes: 5-11
New York Post Review: “The cork footbed makes this show the most comfortable walking shoe — possibly ever. I’ve never met a sandal that can compete. It molds to your feet and gives personalized arch support that makes a big difference during extended wear.
The raised toe bar and deep heel cup do feel like they promote natural movement, and I’ve noticed less fatigue in my legs after a few hours on my feet. I use these as my main shoes all summer in New York and here my feet are my tires.
My only con is that I love my Birkenstocks so much that I’ve worn down the cork bed after a year of wearing them, so I’ll need to buy new ones ASAP. Otherwise, I can’t stop singing its praises.” – Emma Sutton-Williams, commerce reporter
Stack height: n/a | Weight: 8 ounces | Drop: n/a | Colors: 3 | Sizes: 5-11.5
If you’re willing to spend a little bit more money, Cunha loves the New Balance MADE in the USA 993 Core sneakers and so do those seeking the best lightweight women’s walking shoes for plantar fasciitis. “These shoes are expensive but they are an investment as they are designed to last. The NB 993’s provide increased durability, cushioning, shock absorption, and a rigid heel counter for ankle stability,” he said.
If you need ankle stability in your life, these shoes are the ones.
Stack height: n/a | Weight: 7.1 ounces | Drop: 7.0 mm | Colors: 16 | Sizes: 5-11
McDonnell also tested the Dream Pairs Chunky Platform Sneakers. “This pair of shoes is a top-worn style whenever I have to literally ‘run’ anywhere,” she said. “They hold up extremely well in the rain, too, and are easy to clean. While its rigid bottom may not be everyone’s go-to look, I’ve fallen in love with this pair’s versatility and charm.”
Victoria Giardina Stack height: n/a | Weight: 13-14 ounces | Drop: n/a | Colors: 10+ | Sizes: 5-12
Don’t let inclement weather rain on your parade — literally. This hands-free, water-repellent design is safe to wear in the rain. The sole is slip resistant, so no need to worry about getting caught in a spontaneous storm.
Plus, the shoes include an orthotic insole that help reduce pain and make for optimal everyday wear.
New York Post Review: “I’ve been marathon training all summer, and unfortunately, I’ve gotten caught in the rain one too many times while getting those miles in. I need a pair of shoes that goes the distance but also keeps my feet dry (and injury-free!). This does the job.” – Carrie Berk, commerce writer
Stack height: n/a | Weight: 10.1 ounces | Drop: 15mm | Colors: 15 | Sizes: 5-12
When it comes to a smaller budget, Cunha recommends the Saucony Cohesion 13 sneakers for a less expensive but durable pick. “These walking shoes are spacious, comfortable, they provide excellent ankle and arch support,” he said.
Looking for shoes that are a good fit for flat feet? Check out what the experts recommend.
Stack height: 17mm | Weight: 7.3 ounces | Drop: 12 mm | Colors: 14+ | Sizes: 5-11
With warm weather on the horizon, it’s always good to have a pair of durable slip-on walking shoes that can be worn on long walks.
“If you have flat feet you overpronate (which means your arch collapses more than it should) I recommend wearing the Chaco Z/2 Classic Sandal,” Cunha said. “This sandal has arch support to minimize arch fatigue and discomfort, as well as a slight heel lift to reduce the stress and pain affecting the posterior tibial and achilles tendons, which is commonly associated with arch pain.”
Stack height: n/a | Weight: n/a | Drop: n/a | Colors: 13+ | Sizes: 5-12
If you’re searching for women’s leather walking shoes, we suggest these. Known as its “Everyday Sneaker,” Ecco’s Soft 7 Sneaker is built for comfort. So, what makes this shoe stand apart? The monochrome cap toe subtly refines a low profile, and the smooth leather suede adds a flair of elegance that makes these shoes a great choice for work.
Choose from eight different shades, like petal trim pink and marine blue.
Stack height: n/a | Weight: 9.0 ounces | Drop: n/a | Colors: 43+ | Sizes: 4-12.5
Emma Sutton-Williams While reviewing what women’s walking shoes would make our cut, we tried to focus on a variety of things:
Ahead, Dr. Cunha provides insight into the foot and sneakers world. He has extensive training and experience treating a wide array of foot and ankle conditions, from minor problems to complex reconstructive foot and ankle surgery.
“Wearing the wrong shoes may lead to problems such as lowered performance, discomfort such as in plantar fasciitis and runner’s knee, injuries, and even early-onset arthritis,” Cunha said. “On the other hand (or other foot, pun intended), shoes designed to compensate for the impact of your feet can help prevent injuries and improve structural alignment and performance.”
Flex Point: The point where the shoe bends and creases is the flex point. For optimal comfort, the flex point of the shoe should match the bending point of your foot; when it doesn’t align with your foot it can cause problems like arch pain or plantar fasciitis. You can check the flex point of the shoe by holding it by the heel and pressing the toe of the shoe onto the ground.
To determine your foot type look at the soles of a pair of worn-in shoes. The wear patterns illustrate where you are accumulating pressure when you walk. Certain foot types are more prone to specific types of foot discomfort and foot-related injuries. For instance, people with plantar fasciitis, Achilles tendonitis, shin splints, or inner knee pain, tend to have flat feet and be pronators, which means your feet roll inward. People who commonly sprain their ankles or have outer knee pain in contrast, and tend to be supinators because they have higher arches and roll outward.
There are three wear patterns to look for in your shoes.
If you notice that your shoes have the top inner edge worn, you’re a pronator. With this foot type, you need motion-control or high-stability sneakers to keep your feet better aligned with your legs.
If your shoe is worn out in this area you’re a supinator or an underpronator. With this foot type, you will need cushioning sneakers for shock absorption.
If your shoes are evenly worn you are neutral and have an average gait with equal weight distribution across the foot. With this foot type, you need stability or moderate-stability sneakers, which offer a balance of cushioning and support.
If you are a supinator, look for shoes with soft, flexible midsoles and look as if they don’t have an arch but are rather filled in with more sole and cushioning as this foot type doesn’t provide enough shock absorption on its own. When picking a running shoe pick one with extra rubber incorporated into the sole which translates to a smoother and bouncier gait. When picking a shoe for cross-training, pick a shoe with flexible grooves in the sole to facilitate ballistic pivoting and cutting.
If you’re neutral, fortunately, with this type you distribute weight evenly across your feet so motion control is not as critical as stability. A lightweight shoe that bends just to the ball of the foot will be sufficient enough to offer a good balance of cushioning and support. When picking shoes for cross-training, pick shoes that have soles that look slinky which help put an extra spring in your step. When picking shoes for running look for a shoe that provides traction and reduces instep strain.
If you’re a pronator, look for shoes that have the presence of a dense supportive arch which helps provide reinforcement and keep the arches of the foot from collapsing. These shoes tend to be fairly stiff and will flex only near the toe area. When picking shoes for cross training choose a side a wide toe box allows for comfortable lateral movement as pronating feet will collapse and spread within the shoe. When picking shoes for running, pick a shoe with stabilizing roll bars to help protect the arches.
When it comes to walking shoes, most podiatrists will emphasize comfort over style. According to an older article in the Journal of Foot and Ankle Research, up to 72% of folks are not wearing the correct footwear. You don’t want to be part of that group.
Look for walking shoes that have adequate arch support and feature a moderate heel-to-toe drop of 6-10 millimeters for maximum comfort. Make sure to select the correct size. One foot is typically larger than the other, so you’ll want to select something that accommodates that.
Some retailers, such as Brooks, have a stellar return policy, so don’t be afraid to return or swap a pair if you end up grabbing something that isn’t a great fit. Trust us, your feet will appreciate you being picky.
The best shoe brand for walking will ultimately be the one that you’re the most comfortable in. Although lots of podiatrists recommend brands such as Hoka, New Balance, Brooks, it’s up to the wearer to determine if a shoe delivers the support and feel they’re seeking.
When shopping for your next pair, pay close attention to design features geared toward arch and ankle support. Read reviews, as well, and make sure the walking shoes have ample room in the toe box.
Routinely replace your shoes: Good sneakers are designed to last for 300 to 500 miles. As a result, your shoes will need to be replaced approximately every six to 10 months. It doesn’t matter if they still look new. If the support has been worn out you’re at a much higher risk for injury. I also recommend taking note of the date each time you buy a new pair of walking shoes, this will help you keep track of when you’re due for a new pair.
Make sure you’re buying the right size: I recommend always buying shoes at the end of the day when your feet are most swollen. If they feel comfortable then, they will most likely feel comfortable throughout the day. Have your foot measured with a Brannock device for both length and width. It’s important to remember that sizing can be different across different brands, due to their design and the materials used.
Try at least three different shoe models: try two different models at the same time, wearing one model on each foot. The tip of your thumb should fit between the end of the shoe and the end of your longest toe. Make sure the toe box is wide enough to accommodate your toes and that there is enough room to slightly wiggle them. If you can’t move your toes at all the shoes are too tight and will eventually become painful.
This article was written by Emma Sutton-Williams, New York Post Commerce Writer/Reporter and resident fashionista. Emma is one of the best-dressed ladies in The Post’s office, and also known for finding an unbelievable deal on any one of her stylish outfits. Divulging on everything from designer launches, sales and dupes to the most-popular and most-underrated purse brands to luxurious silk pajama brands, Emma has cultivated an eye for style and an expertise for identifying the clothes and accessories worth your coin. At the same time, she proudly models the products she picks so you can see their fit and function first-hand. Emma has been creating shopping guides for The Post since 2024, and previously held bylines in Rolling Stone, Oprah Daily, Parents, InStyle, StyleCaster and more.
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