The best women’s walking shoes for weekend walks and hiking trips, tried and tested by us

The weather might be colder but that doesn't mean you have to forgo a weekend walk or hike - with a pair of the best women's walking shoes, you'll be ready for anything. Being out in the elements when the air is fresh and crisp is exhilarating.

An avid hiker, I am fortunate to have the Pennines and Peak District on my doorstep and I am most content on the moors, hills and trails. I relish that zingy sensation of the rain and wind on my face - but my feet are different. I always say you feel how your feet do, and the aim is to feel dry, comfortable and secure, not damp, cold, and miserable. Walking boots are desirable if the terrain and elements are particularly challenging. However, if the ground is flatter and the weather is settled, walking shoes or a pair of the best running shoes are ideal.

To help you find your right fit, I have been reviewing walking shoes and ‘mid-level boots’ from Salomon, Hoka, Vasque, Ariat, Teva, The North Face, Regatta, and more. The standard across the board was impressive, but here's a round-up of my top nine walking shoes. I have included traditional and contemporary designs in a wide price range so there is no excuse not to continue enjoying the outdoors.

Our top 6 picks

The best women's walking shoes tried and tested by us

Best walking shoes overall

We are spoilt for choice where walking shoes are concerned these days, so it was tricky to choose my number one pick. However, the Ariat Skyline Summit Low are not only protective, waterproof, and durable, but it feels a little more unique than the more familiar brands that always seem to have their moment in the spotlight.

Launched in 2024, these walking shoes are described by the company as "part rugged, part sporty," but I would argue these are more classic-looking walking shoes. Available in a wide range of sizes, including half sizes, I would say these come up to true to size on my size 7 feet. One niggle is that they only come in two colours (brown and grey) so they're not the best choice for a fashion pick - that'll be the Merrell Moab Speed 2 GORE-TEX. But thanks to the premium leather, which feels luxe to the touch, these will likely last you for years to come.

These shoes handle varied terrain and conditions, so I tried them out in heavy rain. Despite my best efforts to purposely splash down in puddles as I strode along, my feet remained warm and dry due to the DryMax waterproof composition. In addition, they felt nicely cushioned and encased due to the Advanced Torque Stability (ATS) Technology. These walking shoes also handle the terrain well. You feel like you can step confidently, even if the ground is uneven, which is a key component when hiking.

Ultimately, these struck me as a timeless walking shoe, which would suit you on longer walks and hikes, even when the heavens open. Likewise, they would not look out of place in a more urban environment, or when sightseeing and you need a pair of shoes you can walk comfortably in for hours. A timeless classic in the making that offers substance over style - but a failsafe whatever the weather.

Read our full Ariat Skyline Summit Low Waterproof Boot review

Most comfortable walking shoe

Teva is a brand synonymous with quality and comfort, which is why I am always keen to try new launches. One of their latest products is the Teva Trailwinder Low walking shoe, which is described as an "everyday trail shoe".

These are the most comfortable walking shoes out of those I've worn recently. I love the bounce you get from the ‘Lite-Comf’ insole. It feels like it is helping to propel you along, which is an appealing factor when you are trying to get your steps in the morning. In short, these are light and comfy walking shoes you can very contentedly wear for hours.

Lightweight and soft to the touch, my first impression is that it resembles a trainer, perhaps one of the best running shoes for trails, rather than a ‘typical’ walking shoe. The mesh is malleable, so it does not feel as rigid or robust as the more traditional walking shoe style, and they are not waterproof, but these are meant for light use, so dry trails or running errands. You never know when you'll get caught out by the rain in the UK though, so I did wear them after a downpour, and it felt like there was good grip on damp pavements and pathways.

Teva designs always offer something unique, and these Trailwinders are no exception. Available in sizes 3 to 9 and four colourways, with an attractive pattern along the side of the shoe, I found these to be true to size. Maybe they were a touch too snug initially, but they will mould to my feet in time. They also include a ‘navilock internal bootie’, which helps secure your foot into position, and a reinforced toe cap, so they provide the stability you want from walking shoes.

However, they are not waterproof. If you're looking for a similarly designed pair that can take showers and unpredictable weather, try the Keen 450 Dirt WP walking shoes.

Read our full Teva Trailwinder Low walking shoe review here

Best for trails

After a bit of a break during the summer, I am starting to combine running and walking while I train for a 10k run later this year. Hoka is a perennially popular brand for runners, so I was keen to get my feet into the new Hoka Speedgoat 6, which is suitable for running, walking, and hiking - especially on the trails.

As you would expect, these look like trainers, not walking shoes, and bright ones at that - but Hoka is not known for understatement. In total, there are five different colourways and a huge array of sizes, from 3.5 to 10.5. My orange and yellow Hokas lifted my spirit on dull days - and that is no bad thing if your outdoor wardrobe is rich in dark colourways like mine.

These are lighter than their predecessor - the Speedgoat 5 - and there's plenty of cushioning. The combination of stability and traction as you land your feet allows you to move with confidence. For reference, I tried them on loose gravel, woodland and grass. You can also swap between running and walking with ease, which is what I was after.

Trails don't tend to be too wet, so I didn't find the lack of waterproofing was too much of an issue. However, if you're looking for a more versatile pair that can stand some boggier terrains, try the Salomon X Ultra Alpine GORE-TEX instead.

Although my size 7 fits comfortably, these shoes are narrower than others. This is something to consider as a wider fit might be preferable. If you are not looking to combine running and walking, then you would be better off opting for a standard walking shoe - like our top pick, the Ariat Skyline Summit Low Waterproof Boot. However, if like me, you are looking for a hybrid option, this makes a great option.

Read our full Hoka Speedgoat 6 review here

Most stylish walking shoe

If you want a statement shoe - something likely to get you noticed and prove a talking point when you are on the hills - then I suggest the Salomon X Ultra Alpine Gore-Tex. Admittedly, the modern style will not be to everyone’s taste, but it does stand out from the mass of walking shoes on the market - and at £180, you'd hope it would. I'd rarely spend £180 on a pair of walking shoes, but these are worth it.

That said, these shoes are not simply a style statement but made for serious walking, with an array of premium features including waterproof Gore-Tex, Alpine Contagrip to help you traverse tricky terrain, Nubuck leather, and meticulous construction that allows for optimum flexibility, as well as Sensifit technology for optimum cushioning. You don’t even have to tie laces - there's a Quicklace system instead that you tug.

I haven’t been able to test these out in the Alps, as the name might suggest you should, but I do live near the Pennines. So, I put them through their paces across hills and moorland, and in the rain - and they were a joy to wear. The rain bounced off the shoes, so they still looked good as new on my return. They also kept my feet completely dry. I could stride comfortably and confidently and scramble over rocks without fearing I might fall over.

They are expensive, but if you can comfortably shell out for shoes of this calibre, and you are looking for some serious shoes to see you through hiking adventures, these are a winning combination of style and substance.

Read our full Salomon X Ultra Alpine GORE-TEX review here

Best walking shoes for arch support

Personally speaking, when looking for walking shoes, I do not want the sole to be too high, or the arch support to feel too protruding, as I find it can make you less stable, especially on uneven terrain. It is why I was drawn to the Keen 450 Dirt walking shoes. It is a new launch from the brand that is synonymous with the curved sole. As opposed to the WK400 which was made for walking on roads and pavements, this has been constructed with the trail in mind, so the curve is a little flatter.

These are available in waterproof and non-waterproof styles, a wide range of sizes, from 2.5 to 9.5 and in black and rouge red (in the WP option). My first impression is that everything about these shoes looks curved, from the rounded toe and how it fits across your forefoot to the curved sole and heel, which helps to propel you forward as you walk along thanks to what they call Keen.Curve technology.

They feel wonderfully cushioned and provide just the right amount of lift in the midsole, so my arch felt supported, but without being a distraction or feeling unstable. In fact, I happily strode across mud, puddles, grass and pathways and my feet stayed cosy and dry. However, there was one blip when I almost slipped on a damp rock going downhill. I didn’t land on my backside, but I think these are better suited to flat terrain.

A walking shoe that you can wear with jeans when out and about, or with your pick of the best workout leggings on the trail, these are a comfortable choice that cushions, and provides comfortable arch support. Ideal for long days on your feet. But if you're looking for more exciting colours, check out our top pick for the 'most comfortable' walking shoe - the Teva Grandview Low walking shoe.

Read our full Keen 450 Dirt WP review here

Best walking shoe on Amazon

If you are looking for good deals on walking shoes and walking boots, then it is always worth keeping an eye out on Amazon as Merrell and Teva often pop up at pocket-friendly prices. However, for this review, I wanted to show that you can also find budget-friendly options that provide protection and stability. One of my finds is these shoes from Jack Walker, which get a thumbs up in customer reviews, and after testing them for a couple of weeks myself, I agree.

The walking shoes come in grey with a pop of turquoise and sizes 3 to 8. Admittedly, they are not the most exciting shoes to look at but for less than £50, intricate design features are not at the top of the list. What is more important is whether they support your feet and keep them dry, and they do. Ultimately, these are what you call a good solid walking shoe, with all the essentials: toe protector, strong laces, good traction and waterproof material, thanks to the Hydroguard waterproofing. They also feel surprisingly lightweight.

I am a size 7 and found them to be a little too snug around the top of my feet and toes, but I think this will ease the more I wear them. If in doubt, I'd recommend sizing up. If you are new to hiking and unsure whether you want to keep it up as a hobby, or simply looking for a practical, no-nonsense shoe, then this Amazon buy will be appealing. I would suggest giving yourself time to wear them around the house to break them in before venturing out on longer hikes.

Read our full Jack Walker Lily Outdoor Shoe review here

Most supportive walking shoes

If you are unsure whether you want a walking shoe or a walking boot, then a good compromise would be a mid-level boot, which provides more support, especially around the ankle, than the lower walking shoe, but without being too heavy or cumbersome. It's like choosing a shandal during the summer months when you can’t decide between a walking shoe or a hiking sandal.

I think one of the best-looking and supportive mid-level boots is the Teva Grandview Gore-Tex, which comes in a muted red with orange trims along with several other colourways. Available in sizes 3 to 9, it has a lot of features that give it the title of 'most supportive' in our guide. But before I get to those, I want to flag that I did find it a bit fiddly to put on. The laces are quite short and there is not a lot of room to position your foot, so it requires lots of wriggling and smooshing. However, once they are in place, they fit beautifully.

The boots measure 4.5 inches at the back and 5.5 inches above the tongue so give you that bit more support around the ankle and are also incredibly waterproof (that will be the Gore-Tex), even when I dunked my feet into particularly deep puddles. Another great feature is the heel lock system, which helps to keep your foot in place, especially when going downhill when the pressure can typically feel quite painful.

If you can get over the fact that they are not the easiest to get onto your feet, I would recommend these mid-height boots. They look lovely, are durable and protective, and though they are on the pricier end of the spectrum, the quality and comfort mean they are worth it.

Read our full Teva Grandview GORE-TEX walking shoe review

Best lightweight walking shoe

Firstly, I should state that these shoes from Vasque are not shoes you want to turn to when tackling tricky terrain in torrential rain. There are other options out there that are more suitable for those sorts of conditions - like the Ariat Skyline Summit Low Waterproof Boot or the Salomon x Ultra Alpine GORE-TEX walking shoes, both of which are in our guide. But the fact is, you do not always want or need those sorts of walking shoes. The Vasque Here fits all the requirements - and are the cheapest shoes on this list, so perfect if you're on a budget.

Created with breathability and freedom of movement in mind, the Vasque Here is a lightweight shoe that also provides breathability and stability. In fact, the mesh is so breathable you can see through it, which is a style statement in itself. These walking shoes are not suitable for going out in the rain, though they provided a good grip when I headed out following heavy downpours, and though they picked up grass stains, they were easy to clean.

I liked the curved sole, which allows for a fluid walking motion when doing a few laps of the park or walking to the shops. They are also suitable for trail walking, as long as it is dry. It should be highlighted that these shoes are only available from sizes 6 to 11, but they are super easy to slip on with a lengthy tongue that fits nicely across your forefoot. Although the muted pastel colours are not the most practical, they look lovely and add to the shoes’ versatility, too. You could wear these shoes with all sorts of outfits, and the fact they are lightweight and comfy would make them ideal for weekend breaks too, when you can be limited on what you can pack in your carry-on.

Read our full Vasque Here review here

Best budget walking shoes

There are so many options for walking shoes these days, but prices can be eye-poppingly high, often climbing to £150 plus. If you can afford to buy walking shoes at that price point and you're looking to invest, there are lots of great options - like the Salomon X Ultra Alpine GORE-TEX walking shoes, also included in this guide. But it is not a viable option for everyone and you might not want to. A budget-friendly option doesn't need to be a compromise either as shown by the Mountain Warehouse Belfour Waterproof walking shoes, which I tested.

Available in sizes 3 to 9 and in three colours, black, navy and grey, they are not the most inspiring colourways - but then they are practical colours for fuss-free shoes. Try the Teva Grandview if you're after something more exciting in the colour department. Although easy to put on, I did find them a little stiff across my forefoot, which I have highlighted can often be the way with more purse-friendly shoes that require time to wear.

I wore the Balfour shoes on a 12km hike, which included various types of terrain, including rocky trails and muddy fields, and I found they provided nice support around the back of my foot so I could walk confidently. As is the way at this time of year, there was also rainfall, but the IsoDry waterproof membrane kept my feet dry and the sole provided good traction. For less than £100 (and less than £50 in the sales), this is a solid choice if you are new to hiking, or not sure how often you'll wear the walking shoes.

Read our full Mountain Warehouse Belfour Waterproof walking shoes review here

Best Merrell walking shoes

For the perfect all-rounder, whether you're taking on city strolls or hiking up almost-vertical terrains (seriously, our tester Millie Fender tried it), it's got to be the Merrell Moab Speed 2 GORE-TEX shoe. It ticks all the boxes of an ideal walking shoe: supportive, comfortable, and completely waterproof.

Support and comfort are the two most important features when choosing a walking shoe. Without these, you're unlikely to get very far. The rubber sole feels flexible and springy underfoot, our tester and shopping expert Millie Fender says, and there's enough rubber to make even rockier terrains feel comfortable. "The traction lugs (the grip) on the sole are designed to shed mud as you walk and I was really impressed with how well this worked. The shoes were consistently grippy, giving me more confidence on the trails. Plus, I didn't need to clean them before putting them in the boot of my car."

But she also notes: "A couple of times during my days hiking, I noticed I was putting a lot of strain on my ankles as I walked vertically along the slopes." If your ankles struggle on the more challenging terrains, a better alternative may be the boot version of this wonderful walking shoe.

Read our review of the Merrell Moab Speed 2 GORE-TEX walking shoes

Best Hoka walking shoes

Looking for a walking shoe from cult brand Hoka? While most people will know Hoka for producing running shoes, the selection of walking shoes is also top-tier. I've had several pairs of walking and running shoes - but the Hoka Kaha 2 GTX is my favourite walking shoe by far, with more comfort and durability in this model than others. The shoe is also made from mostly recycled materials, making it a sustainable choice too.

I've had my pair for about two years and put them through their paces every few months with hikes along fell tops in the Lake District or muddy paths and trails in the Peak District, proving how well they stand the test of time. I purchased the size up from my regular size to ensure plenty of room in the toe box and I'd recommend doing the same if you're looking to explore all the comfortable benefits of walking. When walking, our feet can sweat and swell up slightly, making shoes that are a little too small or just right potentially uncomfortable.

I remember putting these shoes on for the first time, however. They were immediately comfortable - sweet relief given that this isn't a common experience with hiking shoes. These shoes could easily rival the Columbia walking shoes for the title of 'most comfortable' and even 'best overall women's walking shoe', but they are a little bulkier given that they are strictly boots rather than shoes.

Metal quick-lace hooks stretch up the ankle, locking the foot into place, while the plush sole supports the foot from underneath. There's a solid support around the heel for additional protection and GORE-TEX waterproof keeps feet dry and the elements out, while the polyester tongue ensures your foot can breathe.

Best walking sandal

In the summer months, you might like to swap your walking shoes for a pick of hiking sandals for summer. The Teva Terra Fi 5 Universal were my top choice overall, with comfort and style evenly matched.

These sandals have two adjustable straps, one just below the toes and another over the front of the foot, which provide support. The midsole arch makes for comfortable walking over rockier terrains and trails, with plenty of traction in the outer sole.

The key difference between hiking shoes and sandals is the level of toe protection on offer. However, although the toes are exposed in these shoes, the front of the sole does lift in the Teva Terra Fi 5, which helps to protect them. They are shoes for smoother paths and walkways nonetheless - you'd be better opting for a full hiking shoe for any more intense terrains.

These sandals are more expensive than some others on the list at £90, but as you would hope, these are durable and feel like they are made to last.

Testing the best women's walking shoes

How we tested

I wore each walking shoe for at least two walks, from 30 minutes to over two hours. I gauged first impressions of how they looked, fit, and how easily I could put them on. I also tried them out on varied terrain (pathways, fields, moorland, parkland, woodland) to see how they fared, and checked whether they were waterproof, if they claimed to be.

I also sought advice from two experts - Lily Fearne, an outdoor kit expert at Cotswold Outdoor and podiatrist Maggie Trevillion of the Callen Olive clinic - about what you should consider when buying walking shoes. Using my own experience and experts' advice, I reviewed the shoes by keeping in mind these factors:

When testing the walking shoes, we considered:

• Comfort: Comfort is key with walking shoes. I considered how the walking shoes felt when I first put them on, how they felt during the walks, as well as how my feet felt afterwards. Did they rub, did they keep my feet dry, did it feel like my feet could breathe?
• Support: Your feet should feel supported when hiking - especially when walking on uneven terrain - to prevent strain and injury. So, when trialling these walking shoes, I considered what the inner soles felt like, whether my feet felt cushioned and supported, what type of lacing there was, if any, and conversely, whether the walking shoes felt too rigid.
• Grip: Just like support, grip is key for walking shoes. You do not want to feel like you could slip over at any moment, especially when walking in wet conditions. I was looking for walking shoes that everyone can feel confident walking in.
• Materials: As part of the review process, I wanted to ensure the walking shoes were not a case of style over substance and that the material kept your feet protected and dry during the walks.
• Price point: From lower-priced to those at the luxe end of the market, I trialled walking shoes across price points.
• Versatility: I considered how the walking shoes fared on different types of terrain, whether you could wear them as confidently on moorland as you could on pathways, and whether they would look out of place on a day-to-day basis.
• Additional details: I have flagged details of note, for example, whether there is a particularly wide array of sizes, unusual or numerous colour options or unique features.

When I am not on my laptop, working to deadline, you will find me outside, whether it is an early morning walk to wake my body and mind up, a lunchtime wander to the afternoon slump, or an evening amble to calm the mind before bed. So, it was a treat to combine my passion for writing with walking for this round-up by trilling the different shoes on my hikes these past few weeks.

How to choose the best walking shoes for you

• Focus on priorities: “It’s always a good rule of thumb to prioritise comfort, fit and support – no matter the type of walking,” says Lily.
• Consider likely conditions: “It’s also worth bearing in mind the type of environment you’re walking in. If you’re walking in the UK, it’s best to opt for a pair of waterproof shoes,” adds Lily. “Features to look out for are waterproof membranes (like Gore-Tex or DVdry), sealed seams, and durable, water-repellent materials such as leather, to ensure no water gets to your feet, allowing them to stay comfortable and dry.”
• Check breathability: “If you usually opt for a flat trail, a shoe that’s lightweight and breathable, a non-waterproof walking shoe is the right option,” says Lily. “These are made from mesh and lightweight fabrics to allow for better ventilation, preventing blisters and odour. This often means they are not waterproof, making them best suited to dryer, warmer conditions.
• Look at reviews: Walking shoes can be a pricey investment, so I suggest doing your homework before purchasing. Look at online reviews, from various sites, both professional guides and customer feedback. What is the consensus? Are there any common issues that are flagged?
• Don’t be dictated by the label: If you can afford premium walking shoes, then go for it, but there are also great walking shoes that do the job for a fraction of the price. Don't let celebrity names fool you either - although Jessica Alba's hiking boots are our top pick from Hoka.
• Do the prep: It doesn’t matter what shoes you opt for if you don’t take care of your feet. “Gradually break in new walking shoes or boots before embarking on long walks or hikes,” says podiatrist Maggie Trevillion. “Ensure your toenails are trimmed to avoid pressure or irritation inside your shoes and consider strengthening your feet through exercises like toe raises and arch stretches can also be beneficial, as they improve stability and help prevent injuries.

How should walking boots fit?

“Walking shoes should fit snugly but not tightly, offering comfort and support without causing any pressure points. There should be enough room in the toe box to allow your toes to move freely, ensuring there’s no pinching or squeezing. Ideally, you should have about a thumb’s width of space between your longest toe and the end of the shoe to accommodate foot swelling during longer walks,” says Maggie.

“The heel should fit securely without slipping as you walk, as this can cause blisters, the shoes should feel supportive around the arch and also provide good cushioning underfoot to absorb impact, especially if walking on harder surfaces.”

Where possible, it is advisable to try walking shoes in a store where you can also chat with an expert about your needs.

“Bring the socks you plan to walk in with you to ensure you’re getting the right fit and feel. It’s also helpful to try them on in the evening when your feet are swollen to get a more accurate feel,” says Lily.

If you have to buy your walking shoes online, Lily suggests: “Use a spare piece of A4 paper and place it flat against a wall. Then place one heel flat against the wall on top of the paper and mark where the longest toe (usually your big toe) sits, then repeat for your other foot. After, measure from the end of the paper to the longer of these two marks - this is your measurement.”

Walking shoes vs hiking boots

• Walking shoes are lightweight: Walking shoes tend to weigh less than hiking boots. If you're going longer distances on challenging terrains, they may be a better option for comfort over time.
• Walking boots can take you over challenging terrain: A common complaint from testers of our best walking shoes is that shoes don't offer enough ankle support over rocky terrains or those at an incline. Whether you go walking 30 minutes a day or go for longer hikes, a walking boot can offer this more naturally as part of the design.
• Walking shoes have a better range of movement: While walking boots can provide some excellent ankle support, walking shoes offer a better range of movement with more ankle flexibility. This can be a better option for those planning to walk longer distances as it may be more comfortable over time.
• Walking shoes tend to be more budget-friendly: Walking boots are made out of sturdy stuff and there's more material used in the construction than in walking shoes so they tend to be more expensive. If you're looking for a budget-friendly pair, walking shoes will likely be a better option.

Should walking shoes be a size bigger?

Most of the time, you'll want to buy a pair of walking shoes at least half a size bigger than your regular shoe size. When we walk, even if it's just a stroll, our feet tend to sweat and swell up slightly in size. It's very normal but it does mean you'll certainly feel the effect if your shoes are too small.

Brands will regularly advise on whether it's better to size up their walking shoes or buy your regular size, so be sure to look out for this in the sizing information on the website of your chosen shoe.

Lily Fearne

Lily Fearne has been an outdoor kit expert at Cotswold Outdoor's Fort William store for over three years. Her main focus areas are camping and hiking, as one of the in-store experts she helps customers find the right outdoor kit to match their adventure.

Maggie Trevillion

Maggie Trevillion is an expert podiatrist with 22 years’ experience who specialises in everything legs and feet. She has an MSC in clinical podiatric biomechanics and has been at the forefront of the multi-award-winning podiatry clinic Callen Olive for over a decade.

What socks should you wear with walking shoes?

You can buy the best walking shoes on the market, but you won’t be doing them justice if you haven’t considered your socks. “The importance of good-quality walking and hiking socks can't be stressed enough, even though they often get overlooked when shopping for walking items. Socks specifically designed for walking can offer additional cushioning to high-impact areas help to reduce impact and prevent blister, making for a comfortable walk,” says Lily.

“Merino wool or wool-blend socks are the popular choice. They wick moisture, regulate temperature, and reduce odour, keeping your feet comfortable in both hot and cold weather. Also, pairs made from synthetic materials like nylon and Lycra are also great options, they dry quickly and wick moisture. But avoid 100 per cent cotton socks as they retain moisture, make your feet vulnerable to blisters and are also slow to dry.”