13 best walking shoes for women to buy in Australia in 2024
Glide through your daily walks with these no-break-in shoes shoppers are obsessing over.
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If you’re after a simple way to stay in shape, it could be as easy as lacing up a pair of stylish, comfy shoes and going for a walk.
It's official: walking is the coolest way to stay in shape. Although walking is gentler on the joints than running, experts recommend investing in quality walking shoes to maximise the benefits.
Their hot tips include looking out for extra arch support, cushioning, ventilation, and flexibility.
One shoe that matches this description is the Skechers Women's GOwalk Joy Slip-On Sneaker. Now 25 per cent off, down to just $75.25, shoppers are obsessed with these previously so-called ugly sneakers for their comfort, versatility and fit.
The slip-on shoes have over 28,300 five-star reviews on Amazon with happy customers calling them "very comfortable" and saying it's "like travelling in bedroom slippers". If you want to feel like walking on clouds, these are the shoes to buy.
They are also currently on sale at Myer.
RELATED: The best running shoes for women, from beginners to pros
RELATED: The best men’s running shoes for every terrain
Once you have a pair of comfortable women's walking shoes, the low-impact activity will become much easier on your feet.
And the overall benefits of walking are nothing to be sniffed at. A review published in the British Journal of Sports Medicinefound that regular walkers showed improved blood pressure, lower resting heart rate, reduced body fat and weight, and reduced cholesterol. They also reported improved mental health scores and better quality of life.
The news.com.au checkout team have rounded up our favourite shoes for walking, including the ASICS GEL-NIMBUS 26 which shoppers have called "next-level comfortable", is also a great option.
BEST OVERALL WALKING AND RUNNING SHOES
ASICS GEL-NIMBUS 26, $260 at THE ICONIC
Why we love it: Super cushioned
What to consider: Thick sole may not be for everyone
Material: Engineered knit upper| Colours: Oven ten colours including blue, white and black | Drop: 41.5mm - 33.5mm
What You Need To Know
A step up from the iconic ASICS GEL-NIMBUS 25, the GEL-NIMBUS 26 will be your new go-to walking and running shoe. It offers upgraded lightweight cushioning that will make you feel like you’re landing on clouds. Revamped with updated PureGEL technology for enhanced shock absorption, it also has a new soft and stretchy knit upper for ventilation and an updated tongue to provide better flexibility.
The brand even had The Biomechanics Lab, South Australia, independently design a comfort test that found the shoes were deemed more comfortable compared with three comparable competitor shoes – so you can rest assured your next walk will be comfy with this pair on. Plus, if you have flat feet and good arch support is important to you then you really can't go wrong with ASICS.
Also available in a range of other colourways.
Five-star reviewers rave about the comfort level. "I've got to say they feel amazing. The cushioning is next-level comfortable, and the feel of the upper is luxurious," wrote one happy customer.
Another said, "These are, hands down, the best athletic shoes I've ever owned. I'm a nurse and I spend a lot of time on my feet. When I slip on these beauties, I feel like I'm walking on a cloud."
Hoka Clifton 9 Womens, $259.99 at THE ICONIC
Why we love it: Foam compound provides a lighter underfoot experience
What to consider: Best for those with an average to high arch
Material: Engineered Knit Upper | Colours: Multiple colours including black, blue and multicoloured | Drop: 5 mm
What You Need To Know
When it comes to the best walking shoes Hoka will always be mentioned in the list, and for good reason. These are the latest runners in Hoka’s award-winning Clifton collection and feature a lighter midsole and updated engineered mesh upper compared to previous versions.
Features include a 3mm stack height, gusseted tongue, breathable knit upper, durabrasion rubber outsole, compression moulded EVA midsole and a plusher heel with a reflective panel. They also carry the Australian Podiatry Association (APodA) Seal of Acceptance for being beneficial to foot health.
“The Clifton 9 is the perfect combination of cushy without being too bulky or heavy. I love that I feel like my feet and legs are protected but I can still move quickly,” one five-star review reads.
ASICS GEL Excite 9, $129.99 at Rebel
Why we love it: Great all-round shoe that's suitable for most people
What to consider: Older style so not many colour options
Material: Engineered jacquard mesh upper | Drop: 10 mm
What You Need To Know
Casual fitness runners, this one’s for you. The GEL-EXCITE 9 is an extremely comfortable, lightweight walking shoe made with a jacquard mesh upper to increase airflow while creating a softer feel against your foot. The midsole is made up of a combination of AMPLIFOAM cushioning and GEL technology to provide better durability. They also work super well as a trailing running shoe too if you're looking to go for some hikes or bush walks.
It holds a 4.5 average rating on the ASICS website with shoppers raving about the arch support and saying how “comfortable” and “lightweight” they are. Other five-star reviewers write that it is "perfect" for those who suffer from plantar fasciitis and that they are super "supportive".
“My new shoes are like stepping into comfy slippers as usual. Fit is true to size, width and quality good. Purchased the Lilac colour for brightness in the winter season, love them. Whether I’m walking, cycling or a gym workout, these shoes are fab and lightweight,” one shopper wrote.
“As usual with ASICS, super comfortable, light and breathable. Put them on and pretty much forget you’re wearing them … great shoes,” another wrote.
BEST CUSHIONED WALKING SHOES FOR WOMEN
Brooks Addiction Walker Velcro 2 – Women’s, $269.95 at THE ICONIC
Why we love it: Great arch support
What to consider: Velcro tabs instead of laces
Material: Full-grain leather upper | Colours: White and black | Drop: 12mm
What You Need To Know
As the name suggests, these runners were designed for walking. Features include a cushioned collar, tongue and heel as well as a slip-resistant rubber sole. It also has BioMoGo DNA cushioning in the midsole and two velcro tabs for ultimate comfort.
“These shoes may not be the most stylish but at 46 I don’t care,” one five-star review on the Brooks website reads.
“These are incredible walking shoes that are super supportive for long walks. I’m currently on my third pair of these.
“I take daily walks and often very long walks and no other shoe can compare and I’ve been looking.”
Another happy customer wrote, "They are so comfortable, I have a lot of trouble with shoes as I have plantar fasciitis, heel spurs, Achilles tendinitis, and flat feet. And I'm so grateful for these shoes".
New Balance Fresh Foam 680v8, $78.40 (down from $160) at THE ICONIC
Why we love it: A great option for those first getting into running
What to consider: Some reviewers write that while they like them, they wouldn't wear them for long distances
Material: Engineered mesh upper | Colours: Only black | Drop: 8mm drop
What You Need To Know
While this pair is designed for running beginners they’re also New Balance’s most popular choice of shoe for walking on their website at the time of publishing. Designed for comfort above all, the Fresh Foam 680v8 has a midsole that provides plush underfoot and a rubber outsole for traction. The engineered double jacquard mesh is nonrestrictive on your toes, and the moulded footbed maximises comfort.
“Best New Balance sneakers yet, and I have been exclusively wearing New Balance for the past 15 years. These are a delight to wear, light weight but so supportive to my high arches and wide feet,” one five-star review reads.
“They are comfortable. The sole of the shoe is soft yet firm," wrote another.
Skechers Go Walk 7 Razi Shoes in Black, $97.99 (down from $139.99) at Myer
Why we love it: Reviewers love how lightweight these shoes are
What to consider: Slip-on style is not for everyone
Material: Breathable mesh and synthetic upper | Colours: All black, taupe and lavender | Drop: 1 1/2-inch heel
What You Need To Know
The Skechers brand is known for its comfortable footwear, making it no surprise that its GOWalk sneakers come so highly rated with its 4.3 out of five-star rating on Google. Featuring a slip-on design, breathable knit mesh construction and cushioned heel, these machine-washable shoes are perfect for everyday walking. They're also a fairly affordable walking shoe in comparison to other shoes on this list.
BEST SUSTAINABLE WALKING SHOES FOR WOMEN
Women’s Tree Dasher 2, $240 at allbirds
Why we love it: Improved heel collar to keep the ankle in place
What to consider: Best for everyday walks, jogs and light workouts
Material: FSC-certified TENCEL™ Lyocell (eucalyptus tree fibre) upper | Colours: Nine colours including black, navy and beige | Drop: 7mm
What You Need To Know
This shoe is carbon neutral so both you and your feet can feel good knowing you’re not harming the environment when you pop these on. Featuring a seamless one-piece upper for maximum comfort and a lightly padded heel collar to lock your ankle in place, these walking sneakers are super comfortable. It also has a flexible, cushioned foam sole for the ultimate support.
"These shoes might change your life,” starts one five-star review. They go on to say, “They are just so freaking comfortable. I never want to take them off, even when I’ve been wearing them for hours.”
BEST WHITE WALKING SHOES FOR WOMEN
Princess Shoes, $120 at Reebok
Why we love it: Sleek style to wear with regular clothing
What to consider: Not suitable for high-intensity activities
Material: Smooth leather upper | Colours: White and black | Drop: Small drop
What You Need To Know
If you’re a fan of the all-white sneaker look, this walking shoe will slot into your repertoire perfectly. Boasting a synthetic leather upper for ultimate breathability, a high abrasion rubber outsole for extra grip, an EVA midsole for added cushioning, and a terry lining for softness, the Reebok Princess style is a triumph. They're also another great affordable walking shoe option.
BEST WALKING SANDALS FOR WOMEN
Teva Midform Universal, $105 (down from $259) at THE ICONIC
Why we love it: Super comfortable shoe for when sneakers just won't cut it
What to consider: Not as comfortable as a fully enclosed shoe
Material: Quick-dry webbing made from recycled plastic using traceable, verifiable REPREVE® polyester yarn | Colours: Black | Drop: 3.2cm rubber flatform sole
What You Need To Know
Teva sandals have been around since the 80s, but they’re back in style right now and better than ever.
“Being the proud owner of a pair of the Midform Universals myself, I can confirm that they are the comfiest summer shoe you will ever wear – seriously," says former news.com.au checkout writer Dani Maher.
"The moulded EVA midsole offers heel cupping and some of the best arch support for sandals. They will make you feel like you’re walking on a cloud, and the textured finish is like a mini massage.
"Don’t be intimidated by the 3.2cm flatform – it’s just extra cushioning for comfort, and they’re still ridiculously easy to walk around in all day long. I’ve worn mine on trips to the beach, the shops, or just walks around the neighbourhood, and have gotten dozens of compliments on the retro chunky style."
FitFlop Lulu Leather Toepost Womens Sandals, $169.99 at The Athlete’s Foot
Why we love it: Much more comfortable sandal than a rubber thong
What to consider: Only a few sizes left in stock
Material: Metallic Leather and microfibre-lined upper | Colours: Rose Gold | Drop: Considerable heel
What You Need To Know
Stylish and practical sandals? Yes, please! This pair by FitFlop features a triangular thong-style vamp strap with microfibre lining to prevent skin irritation, a slip-resistant rubber outsole and the Microwobbleboard midsoles that not only absorb shock but can diffuse pressure under the foot. But, keep in mind, if you need arch support, these might not be the best for you.
This timeless style boasts a 4.7 average rating on Google with shoppers praising how “comfortable” they are – some even say “it feels like you are walking on a cloud”.
“I have always loved the FitFlop thongs, and I never fail to buy another pair when my last pair wear out. I love that I can find a casual pair, and have the choice of finding a dressy pair as well. I am always telling everyone how it feels like you are walking on a cloud as they are so cushiony, and I love the extra height they have as well. I feel like I want to wear them everywhere, as they also, for me, relieve leg and lower back pain,” one shopper wrote.
“Love FitFlop. They are my go to sandal. They are soooooo comfy, always look good dressed up or casual. No discomfort, no blisters – just relaxing to walk in and you don’t have to break them in, just wear and walk,” another wrote.
Propet Pedwalker Sandal Womens, $189.99 at The Athlete’s Foot
Why we love it: A more supportive sandal option
What to consider: Designed for leisure rather than sport
Material: Full grain leather | Colours: Black | Drop: Low heel
What You Need To Know
Made for leisurely walking, these sandals are designed to provide a seamless and non-abrasive feel. Made from a combination of leather and neoprene it has two adjustable straps for a comfy fit.
“My mother finds it hard to find shoes to fit but these ones were the first pair she had bought in years and she absolutely loves them,” said one five-star review on Google.
Active Flex Naples Blush Diamante Sandals, $99.95 at Myer
Why we love it: Moulded, supportive sandal that works just as well with dresses as it does with shorts
What to consider: $9.95 for standard delivery
Material: Synthetic upper | Colours: Five colours | Drop: 2-4cm heel
What You Need To Know
These diamante-encrusted sandals by Active Flex are just as practical as they are cute. This glitzy pair boasts a lightweight and durable design and features a three cm heel height, adjustable velcro strap and a moulded footbed for comfort. There are easy to pop on, so you’ll be wearing this pair all summer long.
With the shoes boasting a five-star rating on Myer, one customer had this to say, “These are the most comfortable sandals I have found, I have bad feet and these help so much and can wear them for a long period of time without my feet hurting. I have a few colours now which look great as well as the comfort.”
Not a fan of blush pink? It’s also available in black, grey, navy and taupe.
BEST WATER-REPELLENT WALKING SHOES FOR WOMEN
Women's Wool Dasher 2 Mizzle, $280 at allbirds
Why we love it: Keeps your feet protected in wet weather
What to consider: Merino wool keeps your feet cosy in winter but may be hot in summer
Material: ZQ certified Merino wool | Colours: Two colours | Drop: Short
What You Need To Know
From sustainable New Zealander brand Allbirds come these lightweight, extremely comfortable and water-repellent sneakers. Crafted from cozy Merino wool with a bio-based water-repelling shield and no-slip natural rubber sole, these are a perfect pair for those who love to walk whether there’s rain, hail or shine. They come in a wide range of chic colours making them great for running errands as well as actual exercise too.
WHAT TO LOOK FOR WHEN BUYING WALKING SHOES
When choosing the right walking shoes to include in our list, we evaluated several factors:
Cushioning: Extra support for your joints and muscles is a must when you'll be on your feet all day. Plus, they will also help with the reduction in injuries like bunions and hammer toes.
Arch support: Whether you have high arches or flat feet, proper arch support makes a world of difference.
Width: A shoe may be perfect in every single way but if it's the wrong width, it can make a big difference. From narrow to wide feet, these are the best shoes for everyone.
Material: Breathable and lightweight materials that will keep your feet comfortable at all times. Say goodbye to sweaty feet.
Durability: Shoes that will last and keep your feet protected from the elements.
Shock absorption: Soles that will absorb the impact of the foot hitting the ground and therefore alleviate impact on the joints.
Lacing system: Consider whether the lacing system is not only easy to lace but also has enough support for extra ankle stability.
HOW WE CHOOSE PRODUCTS
To help you find the best walking shoes for your needs, we’ve rounded up 17 of the top options for women below, based on real customer reviews and our own experience with the products including the OCA Low Off-White Canvas from Cariuma that reviewers say are like “walking on a cloud”.
Our team of experienced writers spend hours researching products to include in articles. We find out what factors make a good product by talking to experts, reviewing test results and analysing thousands of customer reviews.
FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
WHY IS IT IMPORTANT TO BUY PROPER WALKING SHOES?
Speaking to news.com.au, Principal Podiatrist at Melbourne’s Profeet Podiatry and Active Feet, Oliver Tate, says this problem is exacerbated by wearing incorrect footwear that causes extra stress to your feet, legs, ankles and other joints.
“The repetitive impact of walking places continual stress on the body. If your footwear is a little too supportive, not supportive enough or fits a little awkwardly, those stresses are amplified over and over again,” he says. “This leaves you at risk of overload injuries of the lower limb.”
In his professional experience, Mr Tate says too often people buy their shoes based on colour or aesthetics, rather than its function. Instead, choosing a well-fitted and appropriately supportive shoe could be the small investment that will save you from needing professional invention later on.
“For someone wanting to develop a walking routine and increase their walking, investing in appropriately fitted walking shoes is a great decision,” says Mr Tate. “By investing in footwear now I believe you can minimise the need to visit an allied health professional down the track. Not that that is very good for my business, but it’ll be better for your hip pocket … invest now to save later.”
HOW DO I CHOOSE A WALKING SHOE?
When it comes to choosing the best walking shoes for you, comfort and stability are the two key factors. Mr Tate says research shows choosing a pair of comfortable shoes can go a long way in reducing injury but what is comfortable is user dependent.
“The only way to find out is to try a few pairs on and have a walk around in them,” he instructs. “Some people like cushioning, to feel like they’re walking on clouds, others like a firmer more responsive shoe.”
Shoppers should ensure their foot remains stable too and watch to see if their foot moves inward (pronation) or outwards (supination).
“Stability is important as too much deviation inward or outwards can cause your ankle muscles to work harder to stabilise your foot,” he says. “If you haven’t walked for a while you’re going to want to minimise how hard your ankles have to work so you down overload them.”
Another thing to look out for is a firm heel counter. This is the part of the shoe that wraps around your ankles and prevents overpronation or any rolling of the ankle.
HOW DO I FIND THE PERFECT FIT IN WALKING SHOES?
The key, he says, is whether you can wriggle your toes – a key sign that you’ve found a great fit.
“A good pair of walking shoes should fit comfortably with no hot spots or pressure areas, and an enjoyable amount of space to wriggle the toes,” he said. “At the back of the shoe, the heel counter should lock nicely around the heel so that there is no slipping.”
WHAT ARE THE WORST SHOES FOR YOUR FEET?
According to Steven Waterhouse, Performance Footwear Buyer at The ICONIC, the biggest faux pas we can make is underestimating the importance of the fit of our shoes.
“It’s always a good idea to go up by at least a half-size to allow room for potential swelling, which can naturally happen if you’ve spent a day on your feet,” Steven tells news.com.au. “When shopping for a walking shoe online, take advantage of the size guide and tools available to help make your pick. Here at The ICONIC, we offer a Fit Finder function, which through a short questionnaire based on existing shoes in your wardrobe, offers a personalised size recommendation to help take some of the guesswork out of shopping for your next pair of walking shoes.”
WHAT IS THE TOE BOX OF A SHOE?
The toe box is the section of the show that surrounds the toes. The shape and size of the toe box are vital to ensuring comfort and support. If the toe box is too tight, this can cause deformities like hammer toe but a too wide toe box or too roomy toe box is also not ideal. You should try to have about the width of your finger between your toes and the end of the shoe.
WHAT IS HEEL DROP AND WHY DOES IT MATTER?
Heel drop is the difference in height between the front of the shoe and the heel. It affects the way you run or walk by shifting pressure onto different parts of your body. A lower heel drop places more pressure on the ankle whereas a higher heel drop moves it up the knees and hips. While heel drop isn't the most important feature of a running shoe, it can make a big difference so it's important to consider.
WHEN SHOULD I WEAR WALKING SHOES?
Obviously, this is a personal decision but the best thing about walking shoes is you can practically wear them all the time. Whether you're wearing a more chic, city-friendly pair of sneakers or a more running-style pair great for a hike, walking shoes will see you through any occasion. Plus, they're so much better for your feet than a pair of non-supportive thongs or heels so if you stick to walking shoes you'll be sure to avoid any unwanted pain and will hopefully steer clear of a foot and ankle surgeon.
More Coverage
Find more great footwear recommendations with our guide to the cosiest slippers and warmest boots for winter. Plus, don’t miss our roundup of the best white sneakers for your wardrobe.
On the hunt for great deals on all your sportswear? Discover the best discounts on your favourite brands like Brooks Running, ASICS and Rockwear at news.com.au’s Coupons page here.
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