Ready to step into comfort and conquer your walking goals? If you’re like many women, finding the perfect pair of walking shoes can feel like a treasure hunt with no map. You want shoes that feel amazing mile after mile, but the sheer number of choices can be overwhelming. It’s easy to get lost in confusing features and fancy names, leaving you wondering if you’ll ever find that perfect fit that supports your feet and keeps you moving.
That’s where we come in! This year, 2016 brings a fantastic array of walking shoes designed just for you. We know the struggle of sore feet, blisters, and shoes that just don’t feel right. But imagine slipping your feet into something that makes every step feel lighter, every walk more enjoyable, and every workout more productive. This guide is here to help you cut through the noise and discover the best walking shoes for women this year.
By the time you finish reading, you’ll have a clear idea of what makes a great walking shoe, what to look for based on your needs, and which top contenders from 2016 are worth your attention. Get ready to say goodbye to foot fatigue and hello to happy, healthy strides!
Our Top 5 Walking Shoes For Women 2016 Recommendations at a Glance
Top 5 Walking Shoes For Women 2016 Detailed Reviews
1. Kapsen Womens Walking Running Shoes Air Cushion Breathable Fashion Tennis Sneakers Mesh Workout Casual Athletic Sports Gym
Rating: 9.2/10
Step into comfort and style with the Kapsen Women’s Walking Running Shoes. These sneakers blend fashion-forward design with practical features, making them your go-to choice for everything from daily errands to intense workouts. Their breathable mesh upper keeps your feet cool, and the supportive weave provides just the right amount of structure.
What We Like:
- The mesh upper is super breathable. It uses a tough, lightweight yarn. Some parts have more weaving for support, while others let your feet breathe better.
- These shoes look good and work well for both running and just hanging out. They are comfortable enough for work and outdoor fun.
- You get great comfort and cushioning. They are perfect for walking around all day without feeling tired.
- The full-length Air unit gives a springy feel. It provides amazing comfort that lasts all day. The rubber sole is very durable, so the shoes will last a long time.
- They are great for many activities: casual wear, walking, running, traveling, gym workouts, tennis, and many other sports like volleyball and basketball.
What Could Be Improved:
- While the support is good in specific areas, some users might prefer a bit more overall ankle support for very demanding activities.
- The fashion aspect is strong, but the color options might be limited for those seeking a wider variety.
These Kapsen sneakers offer a fantastic combination of comfort, style, and versatility. They are an excellent choice for anyone needing a reliable and fashionable shoe for a wide range of activities.
2. Reebok Princess Sneakers for Women
Rating: 9.2/10
The Reebok Princess Sneakers for Women are a classic choice for comfort and style. These white sneakers are designed for active lifestyles, whether you’re walking, playing tennis, or just on your feet all day. They offer a timeless look that’s easy to pair with any outfit.
What We Like:
- These shoes are very lightweight and built to last. They offer great comfort for anyone who’s on their feet a lot.
- The classic Reebok design looks good and never goes out of style. The synthetic leather is easy to clean.
- You get superior comfort with good arch support. The low-cut ankle lets you move freely, making them good for workouts or casual wear.
- The memory foam insole adds soft cushioning. The terry lining keeps your feet dry and cool.
- They are incredibly soft and perfect for daily wear. Many people who work long hours on their feet love these shoes.
What Could Be Improved:
- While the memory foam insole provides cushioning, some users might prefer even more padding for extended wear.
- The “wide” sizing is a helpful option, but availability in this specific size might sometimes be limited.
These Reebok Princess sneakers are a fantastic option for anyone seeking comfortable and stylish footwear. They truly offer the best of both worlds for everyday wear.
3. ALLSWIFIT Women’s Slip On Walking Shoes Running Comfortable Tennis Breathable Non Slip Athletic Gym Workout Cross Training Fashion Sneakers
Rating: 9.5/10
Step into comfort and style with the ALLSWIFIT Women’s Slip On Walking Shoes. These versatile sneakers are designed for your active lifestyle, whether you’re hitting the gym, going for a run, or just running errands. The attractive beige and green color and fashionable design make them a great addition to any outfit.
What We Like:
- The thick EVA foam midsole and soft insole cushion your feet, absorbing shock and making every step feel great.
- Putting these shoes on and taking them off is super easy thanks to the special collar and elastic laces.
- An X-shaped plate inside helps keep your feet stable and prevents them from twisting, reducing the risk of sprains.
- The mesh fabric lets your feet breathe, keeping them cool and dry.
- The rubber sole provides excellent grip, so you won’t slip, and it’s built to last.
- They are easy to clean, just avoid the dryer.
What Could Be Improved:
- While the supportive features are great, some users might prefer more customizable arch support.
- The no-tie elastic laces, while convenient, might not offer the precise, locked-in feel some athletes prefer for intense training.
These ALLSWIFIT sneakers offer a fantastic blend of comfort, support, and style for your daily adventures. They’re a solid choice for anyone seeking reliable and fashionable footwear.
4. ALEADER Women’s Energycloud Slip On Walking Shoes Pure Running Shoes for Gym Workout Treadmill Running Errands White Gray Size 6 US
Rating: 9.5/10
Meet the ALEADER Women’s Energycloud Slip On Walking Shoes, your new go-to for comfort and style. These shoes are designed for everything from gym workouts and treadmill runs to casual errands and everyday wear. Their white and gray color combination in size 6 US offers a clean, versatile look that pairs with many outfits.
What We Like:
- The skin-friendly knit material hugs your feet comfortably, offering great breathability whether you wear socks or not.
- The Energycloud midsole and outsole provide fantastic cushioning, making every step feel relaxed.
- A comfy sockliner wicks away moisture and reduces odors, keeping your feet feeling fresh.
- The slip-on design with adjustable shoelaces makes them easy to put on and take off. They have a cool vintage look that’s still fashionable.
- These shoes are vegan-friendly, made from synthetic and plant-based materials.
- They are machine washable, which is super convenient for busy lifestyles.
- They are perfect for a wide variety of activities like walking, running, gym sessions, nursing, sports, hiking, and even just casual outings.
- They easily match with jeans, leggings, skirts, and dresses.
What Could Be Improved:
- While the slip-on design is convenient, some users might prefer a more secure lace-up fit for intense athletic activities.
- The vintage aesthetic, while appealing to many, might not suit everyone’s personal style.
These ALEADER shoes offer a great blend of comfort, versatility, and style. They are a solid choice for anyone seeking comfortable footwear for a busy, active life.
5. Ryka Womens Dash 3 Walking Shoe
Rating: 9.4/10
Step into comfort and performance with the Ryka Women’s Dash 3 Walking Shoe in Frost Grey/Pink. These shoes are built specifically for women, offering a fantastic fit that supports your every move. Whether you’re hitting the pavement for a power walk or just enjoying a stroll, these shoes deliver. They’re designed to keep your feet happy mile after mile.
What We Like:
- These shoes are the BEST FOR high-performance fitness walking.
- They are MADE FOR WOMEN FIT, meaning they have a narrower heel and roomier toe.
- The lightweight breathable mesh upper keeps your feet cool.
- Leather and faux leather overlays add extra durability.
- A padded collar provides extra cushioning for your ankle.
- The anatomical insole offers great arch and heel support.
- The non-marking rubber sole gives you excellent traction and lasts a long time.
What Could Be Improved:
- While the mesh is breathable, some users might prefer even more ventilation in very hot weather.
- The specific grey/pink color combination might not appeal to everyone’s style.
Overall, the Ryka Dash 3 is a solid choice for active women who want supportive and comfortable walking shoes. You’ll love the way they feel on your feet during your workouts.
Your Guide to Finding the Best Walking Shoes for Women in 2016
Walking is a fantastic way to stay healthy and explore. But to enjoy your walks, you need the right shoes. This guide will help you find the perfect pair of women’s walking shoes for 2016.
Key Features to Look For
Comfort is King
The most important thing is comfort. Your shoes should feel good from the moment you put them on. Look for shoes with plenty of cushioning. This helps absorb shock when your foot hits the ground. Good arch support is also vital. It helps your foot stay in a natural position. This prevents pain and fatigue.
Fit Matters
Shoes that fit properly are essential. They should not be too tight or too loose. You need enough room for your toes to wiggle. The heel should not slip. Try on shoes at the end of the day. Your feet swell throughout the day, so this gives you the most accurate fit.
Breathability
Your feet can get hot when you walk. Breathable materials let air flow through the shoes. This keeps your feet cool and dry. It also helps prevent blisters and odor.
Durability
Good walking shoes are built to last. They should hold up to regular use. Look for shoes with strong stitching and sturdy soles. These shoes will be a good investment.
Important Materials
Uppers
Many walking shoes use mesh or knit materials for the uppers. These fabrics are lightweight and breathable. Leather is another option. It’s durable and offers good support. Some shoes combine different materials for the best of both worlds.
Midsoles
The midsole is the layer between the outsole and the insole. It provides cushioning. EVA (ethylene-vinyl acetate) is a common material. It’s lightweight and offers good shock absorption. Some shoes use polyurethane. It’s denser and more durable.
Outsoles
The outsole is the bottom of the shoe. It provides traction. Rubber is a popular choice. It’s durable and offers excellent grip. Some outsoles have special tread patterns. These patterns help you stay stable on different surfaces.
Factors That Improve or Reduce Quality
What Makes Them Better
- Responsive Cushioning: Shoes that give back energy with each step make walking easier.
- Flexible Design: The shoe should bend with your foot. This allows for a natural walking motion.
- Good Arch Support: This is crucial for foot health.
- Lightweight Construction: Lighter shoes mean less effort when you walk.
What Makes Them Worse
- Stiff Materials: Shoes that don’t bend easily can cause discomfort.
- Poor Cushioning: This leads to tired and sore feet.
- Lack of Support: Without proper support, your feet can ache.
- Heavy Weight: Heavy shoes make walking feel like a chore.
User Experience and Use Cases
Everyday Walking
For daily walks around the neighborhood or running errands, comfort and cushioning are key. You want a shoe that feels good all day long.
Fitness Walking
If you’re walking for exercise, you might need more support and a shoe designed for longer distances. Breathability is also very important here.
Trail Walking
For walking on uneven terrain, you’ll want shoes with good traction and a more robust outsole. Some water resistance can also be helpful.
Travel
When traveling, you’ll do a lot of walking. Lightweight, comfortable, and versatile shoes are ideal. They should work for sightseeing and casual outings.
Frequently Asked Questions About Women’s Walking Shoes 2016
Q: What are the most important features to look for in women’s walking shoes?
A: The most important features are excellent cushioning, good arch support, a comfortable fit, and breathability. These ensure your feet stay happy on your walks.
Q: What materials are best for the upper part of walking shoes?
A: Breathable materials like mesh and knit are great. Leather also provides durability and support.
Q: How does the midsole affect the quality of a walking shoe?
A: The midsole provides cushioning and shock absorption. Materials like EVA offer good comfort and lightness.
Q: What makes a walking shoe’s outsole good?
A: A good outsole offers excellent traction for grip and stability. Rubber is a common and effective material.
Q: How can I tell if a walking shoe fits correctly?
A: There should be about a thumb’s width of space between your longest toe and the end of the shoe. Your heel should not slip when you walk.
Q: Are expensive walking shoes always better?
A: Not always. While quality materials and construction often cost more, you can find great shoes at various price points. Focus on features that matter to you.
Q: How often should I replace my walking shoes?
A: It depends on how much you walk. Generally, replace them every 300-500 miles or when the cushioning feels less effective.
Q: Can I wear running shoes for walking?
A: You can, but walking shoes are specifically designed for the biomechanics of walking. They often offer better support and cushioning for this activity.
Q: What are the benefits of breathable walking shoes?
A: Breathable shoes keep your feet cool and dry. This helps prevent blisters and reduces foot odor.
Q: Where is the best place to buy walking shoes?
A: Specialty shoe stores offer expert fitting advice. Online retailers have a wide selection, but it’s best to try them on first if possible.
In conclusion, every product has unique features and benefits. We hope this review helps you decide if it meets your needs. An informed choice ensures the best experience.
If you have any questions or feedback, please share them in the comments. Your input helps everyone. Thank you for reading.