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

Living near the Pennines and the Peak District, I spend my days walking the moors, hills, and trails, relishing the prospect of rain on my face as much as I do sunshine. When it comes to my feet, however, I feel very different, so I always make sure I have a pair of the best walking shoes on them.

I always say you feel how your feet do, and the aim is to feel dry, comfortable, and secure, no matter what the unpredictable British weather has in store. Walking boots with ankle support are a good idea if the terrain and elements are particularly challenging. However, if the ground is flat and the weather is settled, walking shoes (or even the best hiking sandals in the summer) are ideal.

Digital Health Editor Grace Walsh and I have reviewed well over 50 pairs of walking and trail running shoes in the last few years, from brands like Merrell, Altra, Salomon, Hoka, and more. We've walked through boggy marshes, country trails, and city paths, from the Highlands to Cornwall and in mountainous regions, such as the Dolomites in Northern Italy.

The standard across the board has been impressive, but here's a collection of our top choices for the summer, featuring traditional and contemporary designs across a wide price range.

The quick list

The best women's walking shoes, tried and tested by real hikers

The best walking shoes for women overall

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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. Even in summer, they are the better option, thanks to the lightweight feel and various colours available.

Without support and comfort, you're unlikely to get very far on a longer walk and tester Millie Fender says the rubber sole feels flexible and springy underfoot. But 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," she says.

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, and these shoes had enough stability in them to support me doing that, even though they are shoes and not boots."

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

The best walking trainers for women

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Created with breathability in mind, the Vasque Here is a lightweight shoe that also provides comfort and stability in the summer months. It's not one for soggy winter terrains, but when the ground is dry, they are a great option on the more affordable end of the price spectrum.

The mesh in these shoes has tiny holes (you can even see through them), so the lightweight feel and breathability are truly unmatched. There's nothing worse than sweaty feet in the heat, and these shoes protect against that while still offering plenty of coverage and support. Whether you're walking 30 minutes a day to work or looking to start doing more indoor walking workouts, they are a great choice.

I like 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 noted 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 that 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.

If the mesh design isn't for you, or you're looking for more support, I can also recommend the Hoka Bondi 9 as a trainer for city walking.

Read our full Vasque Here review here

The most stylish walking shoes for women

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Grace has two pairs of the Salomon XT-6 walking shoes; she loves them that much. One of them is the regular, which I wear as much to the office as I do out walking in the city, thanks to their stylish design, supportive grip, and comfortable soles. The other is the GORE-TEX version, which features a waterproof layer made for more challenging climates.

"I prefer the GORE-TEX by miles. Not only are they more comfortable for some reason, but the waterproofing means I can wear them in all weather conditions without an issue," she says. "As an alternative to a conventional walking shoe, they're great. I wear these as much to the office, paired with suit trousers, as I do on the trails with my workout leggings. They are easy to take on and off, while still being very supportive, and go with just about everything."

"The green colourway I own isn't in stock anymore, but I love this dark purple option. It feels so autumnal and will pair well with just about anything," she says. "But you don't have to take my word for it. Jo Whiley's hiking shoes come from the same brand, and even Oprah Winfrey's hiking boots are from Salomon, so you know they are to be trusted."

Read our full Salomon XT-6 review here

Most comfortable walking shoe

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Teva is a brand synonymous with quality and comfort, which is why I am always keen to try new launches. I tried the Teva Trailwinder Low walking shoe, which is described as an "everyday trail shoe", and the name is perfect as these are the most comfortable walking shoes I've worn over the last year.

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, 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, running errands, or for those doing walking as a workout. 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.

Read our full Teva Trailwinder Low walking shoe review here

The best walking shoe for trails

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Hoka's Speedgoat collection is designed with supreme comfort and support for longer-distance trail running, making it a good option for hiking and multi-day walks, says Digital Health Editor Grace Walsh, who wore these shoes every day for a week while walking in the New Forest.

"The comfort of the Hoka Speedgoat 7 is almost unmatched in my (oversized) collection of walking and running shoes, with the flexible yet supportive upper making many hours of walking feel like a dream. The heel collar offers a good 'locked-in' feel, and the thick lugs (5mm) meant I felt secure on uneven ground when walking through the trees," she says.

"They are also lightweight at just over 250g each, and I felt the benefit of this as I walked through the day compared to heavier walking shoes I've worn in the past. They certainly feel more like a trainer than a regular walking shoe, but they still come with all the support and structure of one," she says.

"My only downside of these shoes is the fact they are not waterproof, making them a spring/summer shoe only, really," she says.

I have also been a fan of the Hoka Speedgoat 6, which you may find on sale given the latest release.

Read my full review of the Hoka Speedgoat 7 here

The best walking shoe for wet weather

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Grace also tested the Columbia Tellurix Titanium Outdry Hiking Shoe on the same trip, and says that they couldn't be more different than the Hoka Speedgoat 7 - but this isn't necessarily a bad thing "and it's a very good thing if you're encountering wet, muddy, or cold weather, or if you're doing more 'serious' hiking across uneven terrain" she says.

"The support on these Columbia walking shoes could only be compared to the more traditional walking shoes, as they feature a tight mesh upper, a specialist lace system to lock in the midfoot, and a firmer heel collar. These all offered excellent support across my entire foot, from ankle to toe. I could feel it on my walks where the ground was a little more uneven, when walking up rocky slopes, and over fallen trees and forest debris. My feet and ankles felt secure but not restricted.

These made the top choice for wetter and muddier weather conditions, regardless of the season, however, thanks to the slip of rubber-looking material (known as OutDry, created by Columbia) that runs around the outside. In the pair Grace tested, this is blue - but they come in other palettes, too.

"I loved the design of these shoes, and especially the colourful waterproof edge. They complemented my workout leggings as much as they did my blue jeans, which you can't always say for walking shoes. The design is refreshing and totally unique in my collection," she says. "This rubber edge isn't just about looks, though. It provides ultimate water and mud proofing, keeping splashes well away from my ankles but also away from the upper, which is also waterproof."

The best walking shoes for women from Hoka

Whether you're looking for running shoes or hiking sandals, Hoka has it covered. The Hoka Anacapa 2 Low GORE-TEX is the best pick of them all for walking shoes for three reasons: incredible comfort, supportive with strong lugs for rocky surfaces, and completely waterproof. They also come in a set of exciting colourways I've not seen elsewhere, says Digital Health Editor Grace Walsh. "When I'm hiking, the Anacapa range from Hoka is my go-to. I have these low versions and the boot. While the boot is my favourite of the two, these certainly get almost 5 stars from me," she says.

"They are comfortable, with good support over the front of the foot and a wide sole, which I find adds extra stability. But while they are excellently cushioned - I've walked for hours in these without feeling it in my hips or knees the next day - they aren't as cushioned as some others on this list. The minimal cushioning and traction in the lugs on the sole mean they're the perfect pick for rockier trails or terrains where it might have been raining and you need more support, as well as city walking."

Much like most of the best walking shoes, the Hoka Anacapa 2 Low GORE-TEX are also fully waterproof. You can splash to your heart's content. But, Grace points out, they also feel breathable, making them a good choice for the warmer temperatures ahead next year.

Best premium walking shoe for women

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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. Plus, they are on sale for the winter season, making them an even better choice than ever before.

That said, these shoes are not simply a style statement but are 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.

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

Best walking shoes with knee support

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At 4mm, the Altra Experience Wild 3+ hiking shoes have one of the lowest drops (the distance between heel and ground), while still being incredibly comfortable, supportive, and springy.

Anne, 62, is a regular hiker and takes trips to go walking abroad. Most recently, she was in Malta and took these hiking shoes out on the cobbled streets and dusty trails. "I've never worn a more comfortable pair of shoes," she tells me. "In recent years, I've had a few knee issues, and it's made me concerned about doing all the steps I normally do on holiday. No longer! I did an average of 14,843 steps over the week. More than I've done in years."

The smaller drop on the Altra Experience Wild 3+ shoe is responsible for this as it spreads out the force of every step. The shoe is also cushioned enough in the sole to offer support, reducing stress on the knees and lower back that some have with thicker-soled shoes.

"Also, in every step, I could feel the ground under my feet," says Anne. "Even though they have thick lugs on the base, I felt very balanced. This made me feel more confident on uneven ground, such as cobbles and rocky hills."

Every pair of Altra shoes benefits from a wider shoe box than average. Our tester also commented on this. She said it improved comfort over long days, where feet tend to swell.

Most supportive walking shoes

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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 vibrant blue with yellow trims, along with muted colourways. Available in sizes 3 to 9, it has a lot of features that make it deserving of the 'most supportive' title 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 they 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 budget walking shoes

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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 walking sandal

With the summer months behind us, you might be looking to find a deal on a pair of hiking sandals for trips next summer. Good plan. 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 off 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.

Digital Health Editor Grace Walsh also took multiple pairs of the best women's walking shoes for a spin - covering ground in the Lake District, Spain, and London in her Hoka and Salomon shoes.

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 could be 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 the 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.

What socks should you wear with walking shoes?

Socks specifically designed for walking can offer additional cushioning to high-impact areas, help to reduce impact and prevent blisters, 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," she says.

"Also, pairs made from synthetic materials like nylon and Lycra are great options. They dry quickly and wick moisture. Avoid 100 per cent cotton socks as they retain moisture, make your feet vulnerable to blisters and are also slow to dry.”