What To Look For
The most important factor to consider when shopping for women's walking shoes is to find shoes that correctly fit both the shape and size of your feet. Avoid shoes that are too narrow or wide by selecting a pair that lace up snugly without pinching your foot or leaving too much space between your foot and the shoe. Make sure your toes have enough space to wiggle within the shoe's toe box and ensure there is a 1/2-inch space between the end of the shoe and your longest toe. Look for shoes with motion control stabilizers if you have low arches or extra cushioning on the soles if you have high arches.
Common Pitfalls
Don't become enamored of flashy new shoe features that won't be of benefit to your feet. The thrill of wearing shoes with the latest technology will quickly fade if walking in them causes you discomfort. Also, this is one area where you want to shop by fit rather than by price. The best fit for your feet may not be the priciest pair in the store.
Where To Buy
The best place to shop is an athletic shoe store that offers a wide selection of walking shoes and staff who are experienced at providing fit consultations for customers. If possible, bring in your old pair of walking shoes so your salesperson can analyze the wear patterns and recommend fit options for your new pair.
Cost
The best overall women's walking shoe, as reported by Consumer Reports, is the Asics Gel-Tech Walker NEO, offered for about $100 as of August, 2010. These shoes ranked high in breathability and stability, and feature an innovative off-center lacing designed to give you a snug fit. For about $70, you can purchase the highly ranked Ryka Radiant women's walking shoes noted by Consumer Reports for breathability, excellent fit and flexibility as well as a washable, removable liner. If you're looking for a good walking shoe that provides extra toning for your legs, Consumer Reports recommends the Earth Kinetic women's toning walking shoe, which retails for about $110, as of August, 2010.
Insider Tips
Shop for shoes at the end of the day when your feet are generally larger. Have your feet professionally measured and choose the larger size if one foot is bigger than the other. Try the shoes on with the socks you usually walk in and test the fit by walking around the shoe section for several minutes. Make sure the shoes feel comfortable and accommodate the individual needs of your feet.
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