Imagine this: you’re ready to hit the pavement, feeling motivated and excited for your walk. But then you look down at your feet. Are your current shoes going to carry you through your entire journey comfortably, or will they leave you with aches and pains? Choosing the right walking shoes isn’t just about style; it’s about comfort, support, and protecting your feet, especially in a year like 2016 when technology in footwear is always improving.
It can feel overwhelming to pick the perfect pair. So many brands, so many features, and so many promises! You want shoes that feel like clouds but also help you walk further without feeling tired. You need shoes that fit your feet just right and don’t cause blisters or soreness. That’s where we come in. We’re here to help you cut through the confusion and find the best walking shoes for women in 2016.
By the time you finish reading this post, you’ll know exactly what to look for. We’ll break down the key features that make a walking shoe great, highlight some of the top contenders for 2016, and give you tips to ensure your next pair is the best one yet. Get ready to step into comfort and conquer your walking goals!
Our Top 5 Walking Shoes For Women 2016 Recommendations at a Glance
Top 5 Walking Shoes For Women 2016 Detailed Reviews
1. Brooks Women’s Ghost 16 Neutral Running Shoe – White/White/Grey – 7.5 Medium
Rating: 8.5/10
Lace up the Brooks Women’s Ghost 16 Neutral Running Shoe in White/White/Grey, size 7.5 Medium, and get ready for a run that feels as good as it looks. These shoes are designed for runners who want a smooth, comfortable experience without any distractions. They’re perfect for hitting the road, going for walks, or even hitting the gym.
What We Like:
- The soft, nitrogen-infused DNA Loft v3 cushioning gives you a super light and comfy feel with every step.
- The 3D Fit Print on the upper creates a snug and secure fit that feels custom-made.
- The shoe is built for smooth transitions, making your foot flow easily from landing to pushing off.
- The engineered air mesh upper is breathable, keeping your feet cool and comfortable.
- The new RoadTack rubber outsole is tough, light, and gives you a good rebound.
- These shoes are certified diabetic-friendly and have the APMA Seal of Acceptance.
- It’s great to know they are also a certified carbon neutral product!
What Could Be Improved:
- While the cushioning is soft, some runners might prefer an even firmer feel for certain types of training.
- The white color, while stylish, might show dirt more easily on outdoor trails.
The Brooks Ghost 16 is a fantastic choice for anyone seeking a comfortable and reliable running shoe. You’ll love the smooth ride and the feeling of support it offers on all your adventures.
2. Kapsen Womens Walking Running Shoes Air Cushion Breathable Fashion Tennis Sneakers Mesh Workout Casual Athletic Sports Gym
Rating: 8.8/10
Step into comfort and style with the Kapsen Womens Walking Running Shoes. These sneakers are designed for both your active lifestyle and your everyday needs. They look great and feel even better, making them a fantastic choice for anyone who’s always on the move.
What We Like:
- The mesh upper is made of tough, light yarn. Some parts have more weaving for extra support, while others are more flexible and breathable.
- These shoes are designed to be fashionable and work for both performance and casual wear.
- They offer great comfort and cushioning, perfect for long walks or just wearing them all day.
- The full-length Air Cushion unit provides a smooth, responsive feel and amazing all-day comfort.
- The rubber sole is very durable, so these shoes will last a long time.
- They are great for many activities like walking, running, traveling, working out at the gym, playing tennis, and many other sports.
What Could Be Improved:
- While the mesh is breathable, some users might prefer even more airflow in very hot weather.
- The fashion aspect is strong, but for some serious runners, specialized running shoes might offer more advanced performance features.
These Kapsen sneakers are a versatile and comfortable option for your daily adventures. You’ll love how they support your feet through every activity.
3. Reebok Princess Sneakers for Women
Rating: 8.5/10
The Reebok Princess Sneakers for Women, in US-White and size 7.5 Wide, offer a fantastic blend of comfort and classic style. These shoes are designed for women who lead active lives, whether they’re walking, playing tennis, or just on their feet all day.
What We Like:
- These sneakers are super lightweight and built to last, giving you comfort for your active days.
- They have a cool, simple look that never goes out of style.
- The classic Reebok design is perfect for everyday wear.
- The synthetic leather upper is easy to clean – just wipe them down!
- You get amazing comfort with great arch support.
- The low-cut ankle lets you move freely, making them good for workouts, the gym, or casual tennis.
- They have a lace-up closure for a secure fit.
- The memory foam insole feels soft and gives you cushioning.
- A terry lining helps keep your feet cool and dry by soaking up sweat.
- The rubber sole is tough and responsive, perfect for lots of walking.
- They are incredibly soft, making them ideal for daily casual wear.
- Nurses and waitresses love these shoes because they’re so comfortable for long hours on their feet.
- Many people rate them highly as fashion sneakers too.
What Could Be Improved:
- While the memory foam is nice, some users might prefer even more cushioning for extremely long days.
- The “wide” option is great, but a wider variety of widths could be offered.
Overall, the Reebok Princess sneakers are a top-notch choice for anyone seeking comfortable, stylish, and durable footwear. They truly offer the best of both worlds for active women.
4. NORTIV 8 Women’s Walking Shoes Cushion Comfortable ActiveBreeze Running Tennis Shoes Non-Slip Workout Gym Sports Athletic Breathable Fashion Sneakers
Rating: 8.6/10
Step into comfort and style with the NORTIV 8 Women’s Walking Shoes. These purple sneakers, size 7.5 (model SNWS248W), are designed to make your daily walks and workouts a breeze. They offer excellent cushioning and breathability, keeping your feet happy all day long. Plus, their stylish design means you can wear them anywhere!
What We Like:
- Amazing cushioning that feels like walking on clouds.
- Keeps feet cool and dry thanks to the breathable mesh.
- Great grip on slippery surfaces, so you can move with confidence.
- Stylish enough for workouts and casual outings.
- Reflective strips make you more visible at night.
- Lightweight and comfortable for all-day wear.
What Could Be Improved:
- The cushioning, while great, might be too soft for some who prefer a firmer feel.
- The minimalist design, while versatile, might not offer enough distinct fashion flair for everyone.
These NORTIV 8 sneakers are a fantastic choice for anyone seeking comfortable and supportive athletic shoes. They’ll be your go-to for any activity, from brisk walks to gym sessions.
5. DUOYANGJIASHA Sneakers for Women Running Shoes: Slip On Casual Walking Shoes Non Slip Comfortable Fashion Tennis Shoes Mesh Lightweight Sneaker for Work Dark Gray
Rating: 8.9/10
Step into comfort and style with the DUOYANGJIASHA Sneakers for Women. These shoes are designed to be your go-to for everything from a busy workday to a relaxing weekend stroll. The dark gray color is super versatile, and they look great with almost any outfit.
What We Like:
- The upper part of the shoe is made of a soft, breathable knit. This keeps your feet feeling fresh and dry, even after a long day of moving around.
- You can walk with confidence thanks to the non-slip outsole. It has special grooves that give you extra grip on different surfaces.
- Inside, you’ll find a memory foam insole that feels like walking on clouds. It cushions your feet and absorbs shock, protecting them with every step.
- These shoes have a cool, simple look that’s also fashionable. The adjustable laces let you get the perfect fit.
- They are incredibly versatile and work for so many activities like running, walking, working, sports, and even just hanging out. You can wear them in any season.
What Could Be Improved:
- While the knit upper is breathable, it might not offer as much warmth in very cold weather.
- The “slip-on” aspect is more about ease of putting them on and off, as they do have laces for adjustment.
These DUOYANGJIASHA sneakers offer a fantastic blend of comfort and fashion for active women. They are a smart choice for anyone looking for a reliable and stylish shoe for daily wear and various activities.
Your Guide to Finding the Best Walking Shoes for Women in 2016
Walking is a fantastic way to stay healthy and explore. But to make your walks enjoyable, you need the right shoes. This guide will help you find the perfect walking shoes for women in 2016.
Key Features to Look For
When picking out your walking shoes, keep these important things in mind:
- Cushioning: Good shoes feel soft under your feet. This helps absorb shock when you walk. It makes your feet feel happy, especially on long walks.
- Support: Your arch needs help. Shoes with good arch support keep your foot in a natural position. This stops your feet from getting tired too quickly.
- Fit: Shoes should fit snugly but not too tight. There should be a little room at the front for your toes to wiggle. A good fit prevents blisters and discomfort.
- Breathability: Your feet can get hot when you walk. Shoes made with breathable materials let air flow. This keeps your feet cool and dry.
- Flexibility: The shoe should bend where your foot naturally bends. This is usually at the ball of your foot. It helps your foot move smoothly as you walk.
Important Materials
The stuff shoes are made of matters a lot. Here are some common materials:
- Mesh Uppers: Mesh is a light, airy fabric. It lets your feet breathe well. Many walking shoes use mesh to keep feet cool.
- Foam Midsole: This is the layer between the outer sole and the insole. Foam, like EVA (ethylene vinyl acetate), is great for cushioning. It makes walking feel soft.
- Rubber Outsole: The bottom part of the shoe is the outsole. Rubber gives you good grip. It stops you from slipping on different surfaces.
- Synthetic Leather or Suede: These materials can add durability and style. They are often used on the sides or toe of the shoe.
Factors That Improve or Reduce Quality
Some things make a walking shoe great, while others can make it less good.
What Makes a Shoe Great:
- Durable Construction: Well-made shoes last longer. Look for strong stitching and materials that don’t wear out fast.
- Shock Absorption: The better the shoe absorbs shock, the easier your walks will be. This protects your joints.
- Lightweight Design: Heavy shoes can make you feel tired. Lighter shoes make walking feel easier and more natural.
- Good Traction: Shoes with a grippy sole help you walk safely on various paths.
What Can Make a Shoe Less Good:
- Poor Cushioning: If a shoe feels hard, it won’t feel good on your feet.
- Lack of Support: Without arch support, your feet can ache.
- Bad Fit: Shoes that are too tight or too loose cause problems.
- Non-Breathable Materials: Hot, sweaty feet are uncomfortable.
- Cheaply Made: Shoes that fall apart quickly are a waste of money.
User Experience and Use Cases
Who are these shoes for and how will they use them?
Walking shoes are for everyone who enjoys moving on foot. They are perfect for:
- Everyday Walks: For a stroll around the neighborhood or a walk to the park.
- Fitness Walking: For those who walk to get exercise. These shoes offer the support and cushioning needed for longer, faster walks.
- Running Errands: If you spend a lot of time on your feet running errands, comfortable shoes are a must.
- Travel: When exploring new places, you’ll do a lot of walking. Good walking shoes are essential for comfortable sightseeing.
- On Your Feet at Work: Some jobs require you to stand or walk a lot. These shoes can provide relief.
A good walking shoe should feel comfortable right away. You shouldn’t need to “break them in” for too long. The best shoes make you forget you’re even wearing them.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q: What is the most important feature in a walking shoe?
A: Cushioning is very important. It makes your walks comfortable by absorbing shock.
Q: Should walking shoes be tight or loose?
A: They should fit snugly but not be too tight. Your toes should have a little room to move.
Q: Can I use running shoes for walking?
A: While you can, walking shoes are designed differently. They offer more support for the side-to-side motion of walking.
Q: How do I know if a shoe has good arch support?
A: You can often feel it. The shoe will curve up slightly under your arch. If you have flat feet or high arches, look for specific support.
Q: What materials are best for breathability?
A: Mesh uppers are the most breathable. They let air circulate freely.
Q: How often should I replace my walking shoes?
A: You should replace them every 300-500 miles of walking, or when the cushioning feels flat and worn out.
Q: Can I wear walking shoes in the rain?
A: Some walking shoes are water-resistant, but most are not fully waterproof. For very wet conditions, you might need different footwear.
Q: What is “shock absorption” in shoes?
A: It’s the shoe’s ability to lessen the impact on your feet and legs when your foot hits the ground.
Q: Are expensive walking shoes always better?
A: Not always. While quality materials and construction cost more, the best shoe for you depends on your foot and needs. Fit and comfort are key.
Q: How can I test if a shoe is flexible enough?
A: Gently bend the shoe with your hands. It should bend easily at the ball of your foot, not in the middle of the arch.
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.