The best women’s walking shoes for weekend walks and hiking trips, as tried and tested by our health team

Trail or towpath, these are the tried and tested best women's walking shoes to invest in for maximum comfort and support

A selection of the best women's walking shoes, including Hoka Kaha 2, Salomon XT-6 and Merrell Agility Peak 4 trainers
(Image credit: Hoka / Salomon / Merrell)
Best women's walking shoes: Jump Menu

Woman walking away from the camera wearing walking shoes

(Image credit: Getty Images)

The list in brief ↴
1. Best overall: Merrell Agility Peak 4 GORE-TEX
2. Most comfortable walking shoe: Columbia Facet 75
3. Best Hoka walking shoe: Hoka Kaha 2 GTX
4. Best for maximum support: Ariat Skyline Solaris
5. Most stylish walking shoe: Salomon S-LAB XT-6 
6. Best for arch support: Fit Flop Neo-D-Hyker
7. Best lightweight walking shoe: On Running Cloudvista
8. Best walking shoe on Amazon: Merrell Moab 2 GTX
9. Best trail walking shoe: Nike ZoomX Zegama
How to choose the best walking shoes for you

You'll need a pair of the best women's walking shoes if you're taking on a hike, going trail walking, or even just exploring your city more on foot. Designed to support your foot on different terrains, be comfortable to wear, and protect you from the elements, they're a real essential. 

Walking shoes have changed a lot over the years though, leveling up in every aspect from comfort to colorways. With the emergence of new fashion trends focusing on outdoor wear, they're also some of the most popular items of footwear around with brands like Salomon, Hoka, and Merrell among the bestsellers. This also means there are so many different brands, models, and versions to choose from - so it can be difficult to know where to start. 

To help you find your pick of the best women's walking shoes, we tried and tested over 20 pairs from many of the top brands, putting the shoes to the test over several weeks and in many different environments. These are our round-up of the very best ones to hike, stroll, and amble in with maximum support and comfort. If you're looking to run in your shoes, our guide on the best running shoes or the best trail running shoes may be more suitable. 

Our top 6 picks

The woman&home health team has tried and tested walking shoes from a range of top brands, including Merrell, Hoka, and Columbia to bring you a complete overview of the best walking shoes. Here are six of our favourites to get started with. 

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

Why you can trust Woman & Home Our expert reviewers spend hours testing and comparing products and services so you can choose the best for you. Find out more about how we test.

Merrell Peak Agility 4 walking shoes

(Image credit: Merrell)

The best walking shoes overall

1. Merrell Agility Peak 4 GORE-TEX

Best walking shoes overall

Specifications

Size range: UK 2.5 - 8.5
Weight: 600g per pair
Materials: Mesh lining, PU footbed, GORE-TEX waterproof membrane
Sole: Rubber
Waterproof : Yes
RRP: £160

Reasons to buy

+
Lightweight
+
Stable
+
Perfect for multi-terrain walking or trail running
+
Unique color range 
+
Completely waterproof with GORE-TEX (UK only)

Reasons to avoid

-
GORE-TEX waterproofing not available to buy in the US

For the perfect all-rounder, whether you're taking on a city stroll or hiking up vertical terrain (seriously, I tried it), it's got to be the Merrell Women's Agility Peak 4 GORE-TEX. They tick all the boxes when it comes to the perfect walking shoe: comfortable, supportive, waterproof, and stylish. 

Naturally, support and comfort are the two most important features when it comes to choosing a walking shoe. Without these, you're unlikely to get very far. While the rubber sole feels flexible and springy underfoot, making sure I could move with ease, there's enough rubber to make even rockier terrains feel comfortable. Initially, I didn't think these would be able to hold much support for the ankle and as someone who needs this on hillier or longer walks, it was concerning - but I'm sure the interlocking lace system and additional arch support in the midsole more than makes up for this, keeping the foot secure and ankle stabilized. 

As noted, I tried these shoes out grappling and climbing uphill and I tested them walking through my local park. They saw their fair share of rainy weather too and I couldn't have been more impressed by the total waterproofing, which is down to the GORE-TEX layer, something that's advertised as part of the shoe's design. 

Sure, the Salomon S-LAB Xt-6 walking shoes or the On Running Cloudvista shoes may be more stylish, but these still hold up to scrutiny where Gorpcore is concerned with the tab on the back and bolt of orange. Plus, they're so comfortable you'll quickly forget you've even got them on to begin with. Other unique color options are also available.  

The most comfortable walking shoe

Columbia Women's Facet 75 Mid Outdry Waterproof Hiking Shoe

(Image credit: Columbia)

2. Columbia Women's Facet 75 Mid Outdry Waterproof Hiking Shoe

Most comfortable women's walking shoe

Specifications

Size range: UK 3 - 10
Material: Mesh
Sole: Rubber
Waterproof : Yes, 100%
RRP: £135

Reasons to buy

+
Very comfortable
+
Waterproof 
+
Very supportive
+
Suitable for all terrains
+
Multiple color options available in the US

Reasons to avoid

-
Only light colors available in the UK

For total comfort, Columbia Women's Facet 75 Mid Outdry Waterproof Hiking Shoe are undoubtedly one of the best. Putting the shoes on for the first time, they fit like a glove with the lacing hoops making pulling on and tightening the laces the easiest process out of all the shoes on this list. There's a spacious toe box and a supportive, padded heel enclosure to round off the total support of the shoe. 

These are also comfortable on different terrains, making them suitable for everything from Nordic walking to soft hiking. The 5mm lug grips on the sole of the shoe handled all the hikes I put them through, from 30km city strolls to 10km trail walks, without a single blister or ankle niggle. They're not the most breathable shoes around - for this, I'd try the On Running Cloudvista - but they are among the most waterproof with 100% OutDry cover and additional protection over the toes. 

However, although they are comfortable and supportive enough to take on difficult climates, the color palette available in some regions doesn't match up. There's only a limited color range for those ordering from the UK (light purple or cream) and neither is made to stand the test of muddy hikes. My shoes even turned a light shade of grey over time with city dust and grime. Those in the US and other regions can find the same shoe in these shades or black, sage, and grey colorways. 

While Columbia suggests that these shoes run a little large, I picked out my standard size (8) and found that they fit exactly right so I'd suggest sticking with this unless you want to maximize room for potential foot swelling.

Hoka Kaha 2

(Image credit: Hoka)

The best Hoka walking shoe

3. Hoka Kaha 2 GTX

Best Hoka women's walking shoe

Specifications

Size range: UK 3.5 - 9.5
Weight: 443g
Material: Recycled polyester
Sole: EVA midsole
Waterproof : Yes
RRP: £190

Reasons to buy

+
Very comfortable
+
Supportive around the ankle 
+
Available in a range of colors
+
Made with recycled materials

Reasons to avoid

-
Can feel a little bulky 

Looking for a walking shoe from cult brand Hoka? While most people will know Hoka for producing running shoes, the selection of hiking boots and walking shoes is also top-tier. As a long-time fan of the brand, I've had several pairs but the Hoka Kaha 2 GTX is my favorite by far, with improvements like increased comfort and durability. The shoe is also made from mostly-recycled materials, making it a sustainable choice too. 

On wearing these shoes for the first time, they were immediately comfortable - which is not a common experience, even among the best women's walking shoes. These shoes could easily rival the Columbia walking shoes for the title of 'most comfortable' and even 'best overall women's walking shoe'. Metal quick-lace hooks stretch up the ankle, locking the foot into place, while the plush sole supports the foot from underneath and there's a solid support around the heel for additional protection. GORE-TEX waterproof keeps feet dry and the elements out, while the polyester tongue makes sure your foot can breathe. 

I purchased the size up from mine to make sure there was plenty of room in the toe box and I'd recommend doing the same if you're looking to explore all the benefits of hiking in comfort. When walking, our feet can sweat and swell up slightly, making shoes that are a little too small or just right potentially uncomfortable. 

Following my most recent purchase, I've now had all variations of the Kaha. As noted, an increase in comfort and durability are two features new to the latest model of this shoe. While I think these are the top pick if your budget can stretch, the original Kaha also ticks these boxes well enough. Now at a lower price point and often featuring at a discounted price from Hoka, the original model may be a good alternative option. 

Ariat Skyline Solaris walking boots

(Image credit: Ariat)

The best walking shoe for maximum support

4. Ariat Skyline Solaris Waterproof Boot

Best walking shoe for maximum support

Specifications

Size range: UK 3 - 8.5
Material : Various
Sole: Rubber
Waterproof: Yes, 100%
RRP: £155

Reasons to buy

+
Ultra supportive around the ankle 
+
Cushioned 
+
Totally waterproof 
+
Easy to pull on despite sturdy structure 

Reasons to avoid

-
Only two color options available 
-
Materials not very breathable 

There's no denying it - the Ariat Skyline Solaris is a walking boot rather than a shoe, but if you want maximum support then you'll need a little something extra around the ankle to lock your foot into place. Lifestyle editor Tamara Kelly tried and tested these walking shoes and said they were surprisingly light and springy shoes, offering total cushioned ankle and foot support.

"The laces are easy to pull through to secure the boots tighter but felt suitable thick and sturdy. They're also generous in length so a secure double knot is no problem, even after being looped around the two extra catches around the top to support the ankles," she says. "But the key takeaway for me from these boots was the ankle support. They felt cushioned and supported at all times but not restricted in any way from freedom of movement, even when walking on an incline or decline."

While they are fairly sturdy, she says, the pull tab on the back of the ankle is real help in putting them on. Otherwise, they slide on easily and are true to size. "Dare we say even a little generous, so they were more than comfortable on the occasions where thicker socks were required," says Tamara. "The feet felt like they have enough wiggle room to avoid rubbing and blisters but were supported enough not to set you up for a good steady walk."

However, while the shoes withstood a good water test on several occasions with beads of water just sliding off, these boots did leave our tester's feet feeling toasty. "I did wear these during the hottest month of the year and my feet were pretty warm, so I'd definitely recommend these more as a winter shoe or one of the best women's walking shoes for moderate weather." 

Tamara Kelly
Tamara Kelly

Tamara is a highly experienced homes and interiors journalist, with a career spanning 20 years. Tamara has spent the last 17 years working with the style teams at, Woman & Home, Country Homes & Interiors and Ideal Home, and it’s with these award-winning teams that she gained a wealth of knowledge and honed her skills and passion for shopping, styling and writing about every aspect of lifestyle and interiors.

Salomon S-LAB Xt-6 Walking Shoes

(Image credit: Salomon)

The most stylish walking shoe

5. Salomon S-LAB Xt-6 Walking Shoes

Most stylish women's walking shoe

Specifications

Size range: UK 3.5 - 12.5
Weight: 365g per pair
Material: Synthetic and textile
Sole: Rubber outer sole, textile inner sole
Waterproof : No
RRP: £155

Reasons to buy

+
Super lightweight 
+
Stylish
+
Ideal for flat terrain
+
Comfortable footbed
+
Unique lacing system

Reasons to avoid

-
Not waterproof

Salomon's XT-6 may have become the latest addition to the must-have Gorpcore wardrobe but it's an excellent walking shoe in its own right. Available in a whole range of colours from monotone black to colourful purples, blues, greens, and yellows, it's the perfect stylish - yet functional - walking shoe. 

While Salomon's XT-6 may not be waterproof, meaning they will be a better pick for the summer and in drier weather, they have a dust-proof textile upper that keeps feet clean and away from dirt just like the Nike trail shoes. The rubber toe cap also works brilliantly for rockier climbs and city hazards, protecting the toes. While the sole isn't as thick as the Merrell Moab 2 GTX walking shoes or the Hoka Kaha 2 GTX, for instance, the EVA cushioning in the midsole really feels like it protects the foot and there's only ever a soft landing with these shoes.

After wearing my pair for several weeks, these have become a constant in my rotation - both on the trails and in the city. I do recommend avoiding the lighter colours if you're walking through a lot of muddy or dirty conditions though as they tend to mark easily. 

I find the lacing system also makes the Salomon S-LAB Xt-6 Walking Shoes a great choice for those looking for support above all else around the midfoot. It's a simple cord system that sits on the upper of the shoe, so all you have to do is pull the toggle to tighten. It also adds a unique aesthetic feature that a lot of other walking shoes don't have. 

Fit Flop Neo-D-Hyker for walking

(Image credit: Fit Flop)

The best walking shoe for arch support

6. Fit Flop Neo-D-Hyker

Best women's walking shoes for arch support

Specifications

Size range: UK 3 - 9
Material: Leather and 100% recycled endurance nylon
Sole: Rubber
Waterproof : Water-resistant
RRP: £120

Reasons to buy

+
Suitable for different terrains 
+
Stylish
+
Good range of sizes 

Reasons to avoid

-
Only two color options available
-
Water-resistant rather than waterproof

FitFlop's shoes are created to support joint alignment and a free range of movement, with a strong focus on comfort and support. It's for this reason that the American Podiatric Medical Association has given the brand its seal of approval - so it makes sense that these would become our top pick for arch support. 

Our tester, Susan, has been dealing with plantar fasciitis on and off for a few years. She says she initially bought the shoes in preparation for a walking weekend away with friends - but now wears them almost every week. "I was so surprised by these shoes when I first tried them on," she says. "They have a raised, cushioned midsole that supports my arches when I walk and I can go from being in pain and to feeling ready to walk after putting these on. The tab on the back heel makes them easy to pull on too, which helps."

While it's important to get medical advice if you're in any pain when walking, Susan says these have made "the world of difference" for her. "Also, on first appearance, they look really heavy and like they would weigh you down but I found them to actually be lightweight and comfortable," she says. "I've worn them power walking on all types of ground too, from snow to wet woodlands and they kept me moving with good grip on the sole." 

Much like the Hoka Kaha 2 walking shoes, the Neo-D-Hyker is also a comfortable shoe from the first wear. "They didn't have a painful period where I had to break them in, to my relief, with no heel or toe pain at any point," says Susan. "However, I did go half a size up, which may have helped with this."

While there are only two color options available (black or dark blue), both make this shoe suitable for muddier terrains, and the chunky style fits the latest shoe trends for 2023. Just watch out for rain as the Neo-D-Hyker is only water-resistant. 

On Running Cloudvista walking shoes

(Image credit: On)

The best lightweight walking shoe

7. On Running Cloudvista

Best lightweight women's walking shoe

Specifications

Size range: UK 3 - 9
Weight: 235g
Material: 15% recycled polyester and other materials
Sole: Superfoam
Waterproof : No
RRP: £140

Reasons to buy

+
Super lightweight 
+
Very comfortable
+
Stylish color options available 
+
Suitable for trail running too

Reasons to avoid

-
Not waterproof but alternative waterproof model available 
-
Light colors get dirty easily

A lightweight walking shoe is essential if you're heading out in warmer climates or want to move quickly. At 235g per pair, the On Running Cloudvista is the perfect middle ground for a solid yet stylish, lightweight shoe that features all the comfort and support you need to take on city streets or dry trails.

Traditionally a trail-running shoe, this model has new superfoam technology making up the sole of the shoe that combines Helion and Cloudtec technology to offer a comfortable, relatively springy ride while maintaining a firm, agile grip on both your foot and the ground. The laces and padded heel collar do most of the work in supporting the foot with the lightweight upper otherwise feeling very flexible on the move, but overall, I found that they hold the foot in place without an issue. 

The Cloudvista is an all-round great choice if your priorities lay in being light on your feet, walking through the light, or on dry trails. The material upper does offer some protection from trail debris but not quite enough that I'd be comfortable recommending it for a serious off-road walk. And while the Cloudvista is undoubtedly one of the most stylish shoes on our list, it does exclusively come in lighter colors so the material immediately becomes mud-splattered the second you take these into soggier terrain. The Cloudvista also isn't waterproof, although, there is an alternative Cloudvista Waterproof model at 250g per pair if you're interested in more protection. 

Merrell Moab 2 GTK, one of the best women's walking shoes to buy on Amazon

(Image credit: Merrell)

The best walking shoe on Amazon

8. Merrell Women's Moab 2 GTX

Best women's walking shoe on Amazon

Specifications

Size range: US 5 - 15 / UK 2.5 - 9
Weight: 775g
Material: Synthetic leather and mesh
Sole: Rubber
Waterproof : Yes, with GORE-TEX
RRP: From $69 / From £69.99

Reasons to buy

+
Available on Amazon Prime 
+
Extensive size range
+
More affordable than others on the list
+
Multiple color options
+
Waterproof

Reasons to avoid

-
Price varies greatly depending on size

Need a pair of the best women's walking shoes last minute? Ideally, you'd have time to try on the shoes and get to wear them around the house before taking them outdoors, giving yourself a chance to wear them in and make sure they're right for you, but you can't go too wrong with Merrell Women's Moab 2 GTX if you need a pair in a hurry. 

Fully waterproof thanks to reliable GORE-TEX material, sturdy grip on the rubber sole to help you navigate rocky and slippery terrains, a breathable mesh lining to keep your foot from overheating, and a supportive structure in the heel box with lace-ups to keep your foot in place while you're on the move - there's not a lot more you can ask for in a basic walking shoe. 

Those in need of more ankle support or cushion around the heel would benefit from another choice (like the Hoka Kaha 2 GTX) and some colors of this model are more stylish than others (especially compared to the likes of the Salomon S-LAB Xt-6 walking shoes or the Merrell Agility Peak 4). However, if you're after practicality, budget-friendly buys, and speed of delivery over style, this is pair that'll definitely fill the top spot. Plus, these are available in several colorways from laid-back black to bold green and white (as pictured) so you don't even have to compromise on this. 

NIKE ZOOMX ZEGAMA trail running shoes

(Image credit: Nike)

The best shoe for trail walking

9. Nike ZoomX Zegama Women's Trail Running Shoes

Best walking shoe for trail walking

Specifications

Size range: US 5 - 11 / UK 2.5 - 8.5
Weight: 266g per pair
Material : Textile and synthetic
Sole: ZoomX midsole, rubber outer sole
Waterproof : No
RRP: $160 / £144.99

Reasons to buy

+
Lightweight material
+
Double upper layer keeps dirt and dust out
+
Supportive lacing system

Reasons to avoid

-
Not suitable for rain 

Nike ZoomX Zegama Women's Trail Running Shoes might be some of the top trail running shoes technically but when I tested these out for myself on a long, dry, dusty walk in the summer, I found them to be just as good as many of the other walking shoes on the list. 

For starters, they're incredibly comfortable to move in, with an internal heel and super cushioned midsole made of the brand's own ZoomX foam. In combination, they offer a surprising bounce when you walk with a great feeling of support under the heel. On my trail walk, I found I was moving along a lot quicker than I would normally thanks to this, while the supportive lacing system and sock-like ankle support held my foot in place. I took these out running one day too, so I can also attest to their success as trail running trainers. 

While they won't be suitable for rainy winter walks as they're not waterproof and have a breathable upper with perforations in the material, they're a great walking shoe for drier weather and gritty trails. 

How we tested the best women's walking shoes

All of the shoes in this collection have been tested in the last six months, following the initial review process, and we can confirm that these are still the best walking shoes on the market. 

When testing the pick of the best women's walking shoes, we considered: 

  • Comfort: Comfort really is key when it comes to walking shoes. As a top priority, we noted whether the walking shoes had lots of cushioning, a sizeable toe box to allow our feet to move and swell comfortably and whether they were generally comfortable to wear over many hours.
  • Support: Walking shoes should feel secure around the ankle and have great traction, the experts told us. So, we tested the shoes on various terrains to see whether they were up to scratch - from rocky trails to muddy fields, and even out and about in the city.
  • Fit: It's best to try on walking shoes before going out in them to ensure you're investing in the right size. We always tested these shoes with walking socks on to make sure they fit well around these and noted whether it was best to size up in certain brands.
  • Material: We tested a range of shoes made of different materials, including classic leather walking shoes and modern GORE-TEX-lined boots designed to be worn in heavy rainfall. Whatever terrain you're tackling this year, we've got you covered.
  • Versatility: If you’re just looking for a pair of walking shoes for taking the dog to the park, a cheaper fabric option might be all you need. But, if you plan to trek in your walking shoes, opt for durable waterproof shoes with grippy soles for stability. We tested a whole range of boots for different uses and price points to give you a variety to choose from.

How to choose the best walking shoes for you

  • Make sure your walking shoes are waterproof: "Waterproof shoes will be useful for all weathers, not just big puddles. Brands like Merrell that use GORE-TEX are great as it provides innovative wet weather protection and is the gold standard for waterproofing," says Annelie Pompe, an experienced hiker and professional adventurer.
  • Ask yourself whether they're really comfortable: If you buy walking shoes online, be sure to wear them around the house to begin with to check they're comfortable. If they're not, send them back. "Walking or hiking shoes need some space in front of the toes, about 0.5 to 1cm is enough," says Pompe, who is also the brand ambassador for Merrell Hiking Club.
  • Choose the material carefully: While most waterproof walking shoes are made from a lightweight textile or leather, there are others to consider. "The material of the inner lining is especially important," the hiking expert explains. "What one person considers comfortable might be very different to what someone else considers comfortable, so it's important to try on the shoes before going for a long walk."
  • Consider what kind of support you need: Think about whether you need low, medium, or high support. Doing walking meditation on flat ground will require very different support to hiking up a mountain. "Will you be carrying a heavy pack? If so, you'll need mid to high support. If you need maximum ankle mobility then low will be better and if you need more support for your ankle, high support will be best," she says.
  • Are the shoes sustainable? "If you love hiking/nature, make sure the footwear you chose to embrace nature is made sustainably," Pompe says. 
Annelie Pompe

Annelie Pompe is a professional adventurer from Sweden. She works as a inspirational speaker, adventure guide, freediving teacher, yoga and breathing teacher, mental trainer, author and photographer. She is also the brand ambassador for Merrell Hiking Club. Amongst her adventurous & athletic achievements is a world record freedive to 126m on one breath, as well as being the first Swedish woman to summit Everest from the north side and climbing the 7 summits. 

How long do walking shoes last? 

It depends on much you walk around on rocks and on unstable terrain where the shoes will be put under pressure, says Pompe. "And also how well you take care of them, but between four and 10 years is typical."

This may be more than you were expecting, considering that running professionals suggest swapping out running shoes every six months - depending on how often you run. However, hiking shoes and trail shoes tend to be sturdier and made from materials such as leather and textiles that don't wear out as easily.

Walking shoes vs hiking boots

The benefit of walking shoes vs hiking boots is that walking shoes are usually much more lightweight, breathable, and flexible than your average walking boot. This helps to keep you moving easily on long days while hiking steep terrain, particularly in warm weather. 

With a low-cut ankle, walking shoes are best for long-distance hikes and walking as a workout, providing a better range of movement to navigate tricky terrain. Many of the options on the market right now offer great traction, with grippy soles that keep you stable and secure as you move. What’s more, walking shoes are often more affordable than hiking boots and can be used in all conditions, across a range of terrain from rough and rocky mountains to open and flat grasslands. If you’re planning to wear your shoes in rainy conditions, look out for waterproof options with GORE-TEX lining.

How to clean walking shoes

  • Always clean them after each use: You can clean all walking shoes with a damp cloth or water if they are really muddy. After a major clean or after they've been worn for a couple of years, you may find they need to be reproofed if they're waterproof - but you can buy products online for doing this at home.
  • Brush them down if they're dirty: However, if your shoes have taken a hit with a dusty trail, there may be no need to give them a full bath. Just brush them down with a bristled brush, taking care not to nick the fabric if the shoes have a thin fabric upper.
  • Apply wax to leather shoes: A leather boot will benefit from a wax application and shoe polish will also help keep the leather from drying out.
  • Dry them out: Try to let your walking shoes dry naturally, rather than placing them in an airing cupboard or on a radiator. Place newspaper inside the shoes to make sure they retain their shape as they dry.
Grace Walsh
Health Channel Editor

Grace Walsh is woman&home's Health Channel Editor, working across the areas of fitness, nutrition, sleep, mental health, relationships, and sex. In 2024, she will be taking on her second marathon in Rome, cycling from Manchester to London (350km) for charity, and qualifying as a certified personal trainer.


A digital journalist with over six years experience as a writer and editor for UK publications, Grace has covered (almost) everything in the world of health and wellbeing with bylines in Cosmopolitan, Red, The i Paper, GoodtoKnow, and more.