A good quality walking shoe offers so many health benefits for you. Wearing a supportive fitting shoe makes it much easier to maintain a more natural walking pattern, posture, and prevent unwanted stresses and strains on joints and muscles.

As you get older wearing the right supportive and comfortable footwear is absolutely vital for keeping your feet healthy. In addition, wearing the Best Walking Shoes for Women 2023 is a safe and simple way to prevent falls in the elderly.

One of the common causes of outdoor falls is wearing worn, loose or badly fitting walking shoes. In addition, slippery or worn soles on your shoes can easily make you slip on tiled, laminate, wooden, or even carpeted surfaces.

With so much choice available, and everyone liking a different style of walking shoe it can be a little daunting knowing what to buy, so here’s a list of the different types of walking shoes to help you choose.

Best Walking Shoes for Women 2023

1) Skechers Walking Shoes

2) New Balance Walking Shoes

3) Brooks Walking Shoes

4) Waterproof Walking Shoes

5) Asics Walking Shoes

6) Most Comfortable Walking Shoes

7) Budget Walking Shoes

1) Best Skechers Walking Shoes for Women

Skechers Gowalk 3 Women’s Walking Shoes

These walking shoes are available on Amazon (see price)

The Skecher Go Walk 3 walking shoe is one of the most popular selling Skechers shoes for women, and features Goga Mat technology with high-rebound cushioning insole which allows better shock-absorbent. Designed with Skechers performance technology and materials it is specifically made for a good quality walking shoe.

Pros

This walking shoe has a really comfortable heel support that means you could wear either barefoot, or with socks, without them rubbing your foot.
The insole of the shoe is treated with an antibacterial and odour-free material which means your feet will always stay fresh.
Has a breathable soft fabric lining which ensures maximum cooling comfort while wearing the walking shoes.
Really comfortable spongy sole.
Great thing about these shoes is that they wash really well and keep their shape.
Available in 13 different colours, so there’s a colour to suit everyone.

Cons

You may need to order a smaller size than you normally wear, as Skecher sizes tend to be on the big size.

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Skechers Women’s Go Walk Lite – Coral Boat Shoes

These walking shoes are available on Amazon (see price)

The Skechers women’s Go Walk Lite offers you the ultimate in comfort and style. With its colourful canvas fabric and smooth Leather-Tex fabric upper in a three eye lace up boat shoe with contrast accents, you’ll look and feel good all the time.

Pros

Features high-rebound cushioning which is really responsive to your foot’s movement.
Available in half sizes so you will always get the fit you want.
Has a soft fabric heel overlay.
Stylish lace up casual 3 eye boat design.
5Gen® lightweight injection-molded compound mid sole with memory retention.
Comfortable, lightweight and sturdy walking shoe.

Cons

Some people might not like the ‘boat style’ design.

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2) Best New Balance Walking Shoes for Women

New Balance Women’s Ww1165v1 Walking Shoes

These walking shoes are available on Amazon (see price)

With its clean-cut, instantly recognisable design, these New Balance walking shoes are as fashion-forward as they are technologically advanced in design. These extremely comfortable and supportive shoes are a perfect choice when you’re out and about.

Pros

They are so comfortable to wear you forget you have got them on your feet.
Good cushioned support on the heel.
They come in a great choice of different colours.
Attractive design.
Quality walking shoe that offers great value for money.

Cons

Some people may prefer a smaller visible logo on their shoe.

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New Balance Women’s 990v5 Walking Shoes

These walking shoes are available on Amazon (see price)

The Women’s New Balance 990v5 Walking Shoe offers you the perfect combination of cushioning and stability. With its leather and fabric mesh upper with logo accent Lace up closure, this shoe is both lightweight and durable, offering you great comfort and support.

Pros

It’s a lightweight shoe but feels really supportive.
Has a dual density foam collar that keeps your foot really stable.
The soles are also very comfortable – great, thick feeling cushion that feel solid while nicely absorbing the impact of your feet.
Stylish looking shoe that you can use for walking, exercising, running or just casual wear.
Hard wearing and durable sneaker shoe.

Cons

They are a little expensive which might be outside your budget.

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3) Best Brooks Walking Shoes for Women

Brooks Women’s Addiction Walker Nordic Walking Shoes

These walking shoes are available on Amazon (see price)

The women’s new Addiction Nordic Walker have everything you need in a walking shoe. With its slip-resistant outsole and durable cushioning, they provide sturdy support in all weathers.

Pros

These walkers have a durable, energy-returning MoGo mid sole cushioning that really supports your feet.
Good reliable slip-resistant sole that will keep you steady on your feet in all weathers.
They have a good strong supporting full grain leather upper, which is easy to keep clean.
Great arch support which really helps you if you have ‘flat feet’ or suffer with plantar fasciitis.
Very comfortable to wear, perfect if you are on your feet a lot.

Cons

You may need to order a 1/2 size up.

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BROOKS Adrenaline Walker 3 Women’s Walking Shoes

These walking shoes are available on Amazon (see price)

The Brooks Adrenaline Walker 3 Women’s Walking Shoes are engineered with rear and forefoot Hydroflow technology; a system of fluid units that provide shock absorption and cushioning for the foot. This gives you the ultimate support and stability when out walking.

Pros

These shoes are ideal for those who suffer with slightly pronated feet, as have excellent adjustment for full heel to toe movement with great arch support.
Really comfortable and protect your feet from the effects of walking on hard surfaces.
Stylish and attractive looking walking shoe.
The shoes are also very durable and they dry out easily and without any marks on them.

Cons

The walking shoes are shower proof, but not waterproof, so if you are out in bad weather you may need to buy a waterproof spray for them.
Smaller fit as standard, so you may need to order a half to one size up from your normal shoes size to get the right size fit.

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4) Best Waterproof Walking Shoes for Women

Merrell Women’s Siren Sport GTX Low Rise Walking Shoes

These walking shoes are available on Amazon (see price)

These women’s Siren Sport Gore-Tex shoes from Merrell feature a synthetic leather and mesh upper, and feature a Gore-Tex membrane which gives the walking shoe a high level of breathability while making them completely waterproof.

Pros

Stylish and neat-looking, lightweight, trainer-style walking shoe ideal for out and about.
Great value for money.
The Gore-Tex extended comfort footwear lining keeps your feet dry in all weathers.
Has a Merrell air cushion in the heel that absorbs shock and adds stability.
Good outsole grip.
M-Select FRESH naturally prevents odour before it starts for fresh smelling feet.

Cons

Those with a wider foot may find the fit a little narrow.

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Meindl Respond Lady GTX Women’s Walking Shoes

These walking shoes are available on Amazon (see price)

The Meindl Respond Lady GTX Women’s walking shoes feature a trail running style to promote an active feel walking on tracks and paths. This sturdy waking shoe with a Gore-Tex membrane keeps the shoes waterproof, as well as breathable for taking on walks in any conditions.

Pros

Has an attractive looking velour leather and the mesh upper helps the breathability of your feet.
Solid outsole which gives you great traction over all terrains.
The reinforced bumper on the front of the shoes helps protect your toes from obstacles and debris.
Waterproof Gore-Tex lining which will keep your feet dry in all weathers.
They have an easy-pull lacing system which gives your feet a secure fit.

Cons

You may need to order a 1/2 size up.

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5) Best Asics Walking Shoes for Women

ASICS Gel-Odyssey Wr, Women’s Low Rise Walking Shoes

These walking shoes are available on Amazon (see price)

The asics gel-odyssey wr is the perfect hiking shoe. This stylish and rugged women’s walking shoe features a strong leather outer material, and has a durable rubber outsole to keep you safe and steady on your feet in all weathers.

Pros

Comfortable walking shoe that is not too expensive.
Dry out fast, light to wear, good support, great for dog walking.
Easy to maintain and keep clean.
Strong, sturdy sole to keep to you steady on your feet.

Cons

Quite a narrow fit so those with a wider foot.
If you plan to wear thin socks, half a size up should be okay. If you prefer thick socks, then I would recommend increasing by a whole size.

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ASICS – Women’s Gel-Quickwalk 3 Walking Shoes

These walking shoes are available on Amazon (see price)

The Gel-Quickwalk 3 women’s walking shoe has a breathable mesh and fabric lining to keep your feet feeling cool and fresh all day. They have a soft rear foot gel cushioning system that supports and acts as a shock absorber, even on hard uneven surfaces.

Pros

Comfortable snug fitting walking shoe.
Great arch support which helps if you have ‘flat feet’ or suffer with plantar fasciitis.
The mid sole of the shoe offers good support.
Has a durable rubber outsole.

Cons

The toe box of the shoe may be a little narrow for some people.

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6) Most Comfortable Walking Shoes for Women

Ryka Women’s Devo Plus 2 Walking Shoe

These walking shoes are available on Amazon (see price)

The Ryka Women’s Devo Plus 2 walking shoe has a Lycra-lined tongue and comfort collar with built-in cushion, as well as a smooth cushioning insole with Anatomical Precise-Return(TM) footbed making them super comfortable to wear.

Pros

Great fitting comfortable shoe.
Has a high instep insole which gives the arches of your feet great support.
Lightweight and flexible.
Available in lots of different colours, so there’s a style for everyone.

Cons

The fit is a little on small size, so you may need to order a 1/2 size up.

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Skechers Women’s Go Walk Evolution Ultra-reach Slip On Trainers

These walking shoes are available on Amazon (see price)

The Skechers Go Walk Evolution Ultra Reach ladies’ walking shoes are incredibly comfortable, designed for active women that seek proper support, impeccable fit and cosiness when casually walking, as well as participating in fitness, or sports activities.

Pros

Available in 9 different attractive colour designs.
Plenty of padding to the back of the heel which makes them feel really comfortable.
No messing with laces – really quick and easy to put on and off.
The cushioned sole support makes them feel like you are wearing a pair of slippers.
Lightweight and breathable.

Cons

There a big fit for the size, so might be better to order a 1/2 size smaller.

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7) Best Budget Walking Shoes for Women

Mountain Warehouse Path Waterproof Women’s Walking Shoes

These walking shoes are available on Amazon (see price)

For those of you looking for a quality everyday walking shoe at an affordable price, then look no further than the Mountain Warehouse Path Waterproof Women’s Walking Shoes. This budget shoe is made with a water resistant upper and sturdy soles with a deep tread for extra grip and stability.

Pros

Constructed of water resistant upper and waterproof membrane, vital for outdoor activities in wet or changeable conditions.
Has a mesh lining that improves breathability to help keep your feet fresh whilst out and about.
The cushioned footbed supports your foot for added comfort, particularly at the arch and toe.
Heel and toe bumpers give added rubber reinforcement at the heel and toe, which will make your footwear last longer.
Comfortable and lightweight.

Cons

The laces fray quite quickly and may need replacing.

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Gelert Women’s Horizon Low Waterproof Lace up Walking Shoes

These walking shoes are available on Amazon (see price)

The Gelert Horizon Low Waterproof Walking shoe benefits from having a fully waterproof synthetic upper with a padded tongue to keep out the worst of the weather. This stylish budget end walking shoe looks and performs well against even some top of the range shoes on the market.

Pros

Comfortable and lightweight.
Durable and hard wearing.
Waterproof.
Has a cushioned ankle collar that gives you plenty of support.
Stylish looking walking shoe.
As cheaper shoes go these offer great value for the money.

Cons

The fit is a little on the small size, so you may need to order a 1/2 size up.

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Common foot problems associated with wearing incorrect footwear

Most foot problems for anyone, including the elderly, can be greatly improved by wearing the correct fitting footwear, both in and out of your home.

Resulting foot pain, deformity and loss of function can significantly compromise an older person’s mobility and independence.

Here’s a list of some common problems you might experience with your feet as you get older.

1) Bunions (hallux valgus)

A bunion is a bony knob that forms on the joint at the base of the big toe.

Bunions can form from an inherited structural problem in the foot, or as a result of medical conditions like arthritis. Inflammatory or degenerative arthritis can cause the cartilage covering the big toe joint to deteriorate and the extra pressure this places on the joint forms a bunion.

People who wear slippers or shoes that are too tight, too narrow or too pointed are more susceptible to developing bunions. Silicone toe separators provide relief for the bunion joint, and promote proper joint alignment.

2) Arthritis

Arthritis is a common condition that causes pain and inflammation in a joint.

In the UK, more than 10 million people have arthritis or other, similar conditions that affect the joints. Although you might assume that arthritis only happens in the elderly, it can affect people of all ages, including children.

Osteoarthritis is the most common type of arthritis. Also called “wear and tear” arthritis or degenerative joint disease, osteoarthritis (OA) is the gradual progressive breakdown of the joints’ natural shock absorbers.

Inflammation and injury to the joint cause a breaking down of smooth cartilage linings of the joints, causing pain, swelling, and deformity.

Rheumatoid arthritis

In rheumatoid arthritis, the body’s immune system targets affected joints, which leads to pain and swelling.

The outer covering (synovium) of the joint is the first place affected.

This can then spread across the joint, leading to further swelling and a change in the joint’s shape. This may cause the bone and cartilage to break down.

People with rheumatoid arthritis can also develop problems with other tissues and organs in their body.

3) Oedema

Oedema is swelling caused by excess fluid trapped in your body’s tissues. Although oedema can affect any part of your body, you may notice it more in your hands, arms, feet, ankles and legs.

Oedema can be the result of medication, pregnancy or an underlying disease — often congestive heart failure, kidney disease or cirrhosis of the liver.

Taking medication to remove excess fluid and reducing the amount of salt in your food often relieves oedema. When oedema is a sign of an underlying disease, the disease itself requires separate treatment.

Compression stockings are made to help control swelling in the feet, ankles and lower legs.

They help by squeezing these areas to prevent the buildup of fluid in the tissue which can be very painful.

4) Ingrowing Toenail

An ingrowing toenail, also known as onychocryptosis, is a common condition which results in pain and disability in the foot.

Older people may also be at higher risk because toenails thicken with age.

The skin can become red, swollen and hard next to the nail, and be painful when pressure is applied on or around it.

Some causes of ingrowing toenails are –

Wearing incorrect footwear such as tight-fitting slippers or shoes, that places a lot of pressure on the big toes.

Tight fitting socks, stockings or tights can also contribute to them occurring.

Poor foot hygiene ( not washing your feet regularly and keeling them clean and dry ). Poor posture can also increase the risk of you getting an ingrowing toenail.

An Ingrowing Toenail Kit is designed to relieve the pain and discomfort caused by ingrowing toenails. It has been designed in co-operation with podiatrists to treat and help provide relief from discomfort caused by ingrowing toenails.

5) Diabetes

Diabetes is a lifelong condition that causes a person’s blood sugar level to become too high. There are 2 main types of diabetes:

There are 2 main types of diabetes:

type 1 diabetes – where the body’s immune system attacks and destroys the cells that produce insulin.

type 2 diabetes – where not enough insulin is produced by the body.

Elderly diabetic patients are particularly affected with foot disease. The main causes are peripheral neuropathy, foot deformities and peripheral arterial disease. Other risk factors include reduced mobility, vision problems and other medical co-morbidities.

Buying tips for the right footwear (people with diabetes)

Avoid walking shoes or boots with pointed toes.
Don’t buy shoes with too flat a sole or high heels because they don’t allow for even distribution of foot pressure.
Buy a walking shoe with a soft cushioned insole to support your foot.
Choose a shoe that allows you feet to ‘breath’ such as leather or canvas.
Look for a walking shoe that has velcro, or laces which makes them easier to adjust.

6) Plantar Fasciitis

Plantar fasciitis is one of the most common causes of heel pain. It involves inflammation of a thick band of tissue that runs across the bottom of your foot and connects your heel bone to your toes (plantar fascia).

Walking in badly fitting shoes without good arch support can inflame, overstretch or tear the plantar fascia. This can lead to an intense stabbing heel pain when you start walking on it. Resting the feet can provide temporary relief.

How to Clean and Care for your Walking Shoes

1) Cleaning your walking shoes

If you want to get the best out of your walking shoes and make them last, you need to clean them regularly.

Look after your shoes and they will last for many years to come.

Dirt in the grooves of the sole of your shoe could mean you have less grip so you could lose your footing. Also, an accumulation of mud and dirt can affect the breathability and waterproofing of your walking shoes and boots.

Handy Tips for Cleaning

Always make sure you clean your shoes each time you use them, preferably the same day, but if not then the next day. ( Don’t leave them for weeks before finally cleaning them )
Use a medium stiff brush and some warm water to get as much of the mud and dirt off them.( A toothbrush is good to use as you can get into small spaces and cracks with it.)

Remove the laces before cleaning them. ( Give them a clean as well ! )

Make sure you scrape mud and debris from the sole of your walking shoe, as left behind it will affect the grip and support of them.

2) Drying your walking shoes

Now you’ve got them clean you need to dry your walking shoes and boots. Don’t be tempted to dry them quickly like leaving next to a fire or on a radiator, as this will weaken the adhesive of the shoe. If you have leather shoes, it will cause them to warp and the leather to crack and split.

Handy Tips for Drying

Always dry your walking shoes at normal temperature, and in a place with low humidity.

Take any insoles out and let them dry separately.

Stuff the shoes with newspaper to absorb moisture and leave them to dry naturally, which will also keep the shape of your shoe or boot.

It is best to try to dry them out slowly. Don’t be tempted to force dry them with heat, such as a hair dryer.

3) Conditioning and waterproofing your walking shoes

It’s always a good idea to clean really well your walking shoes before conditioning or waterproofing them.

If you have leather walking shoes, particularly new shoes, it is best to use a conditioner on them. This will ensure that they are soft and prevent them from cracking. If you have suede shoes then they won’t need conditioning.

Handy Tips for Waterproofing

If the walking shoes you use have a Gore-Tex membrane, such as the Merrell Women’s Siren Sport GTX Low Rise Walking Shoes, or the Meindl Respond Lady GTX Women’s Walking Shoes highlighted, then just simply clean the fabric as no waterproofing treatment is required.

Normally, waterproofing treatments are designed for either full-grain leather or “rough” leathers like suede or nubuck.