Best Walking Shoes For Women

Running and walking can eventually take a toll on your feet and ankles, especially if you have low arches or flat feet. It is important to pick the correct running or walking shoe that offers comfort and arch support to protect against heel spurs.

Below are five athletic shoes that will cushion the ankle and feet while providing great arch support for women with fasciitis. These shoes are billed as "walking" or "running" shoes, but you really need arch support around the clock, so these shoes are actually ideal for everyday use.

But first, a quick word about "running" vs "walking" shoes...

Walking Shoes Vs Running Shoes: What's The Difference?

Not much, really.

When it comes to choosing a shoe to use all day, every day, what you need is good arch support. That's what makes a difference for people with arch pain.

Now, there are some differences that can be significant for those who are into distance running, but for shoes that you're going to wear to work or the store or whatever, there's not a very noticeable difference between a running shoe with good support and a walking shoe with good support.

Running shoes are typically a few ounces lighter, and they may be constructed with mesh uppers that offer better breathability (air circulation) too. That's actually a nice feature for shoes that will be worn all day anyway, even if you're not out running marathons.

I've used both walking shoes and running shoes -- both with built-in arch support -- and both of them were great. I didn't notice any real difference between them, as far as foot pain/comfort. However, I do gravitate more towards the lighter running shoes (especially ASICS...I'm on my 4th pair!), now that I'm getting back into running.

I can't say that it makes a HUGE difference though. As long as I got my arches supported, I'm happy.

Orthaheel Women's Walker

The Orthaheel Women's Walker may be just about the best walking shoes for plantar fasciitis, providing stability and comfort all at the same time. The Orthaheel Walker has soles that are made out of rubber traction with flex grooves, making it no ordinary walking shoe.

This walking shoe is designed to support the foot while making sure that it rests in its natural position, and it will allow a person to walk for an extended amount of time due to the padded tongue and foam padded lining. The Orthaheel Women’s Walker is water-resistant and equipped with a firm thermoplastic heel counter.

Asics Women's GT 2170

ASICS Women's GT 2170 running shoe mesh and synthetic made shoe is incredibly lightweight making them great companions for runners.

Accepted by the American Podiatric Medical Institution, this running shoe is set with Asics' patented Duomax midsole for arch stability and enhancement. The Asics Women’s GT 2170 Running Shoe is lined with a durasponge gel cushioning system for an extra layer of comfort. The running shoe has a gel impact system along with well-made rubber soles that allow a runner to take make accurate strides.

Skechers Women's Go Run Ride Straight Ultra

Skechers Women's Go Run Ride Ultra is designed with great style in mind, and it comes in several different colors.

The synthetic and mesh design ensures that runners can wear this particular shoe barefoot and remain cool. The shoe is lined with soft fabric allowing a person to run with comfort. The Go Run Straight running shoe was designed with resalyte cushioning which, allows the runner to experience a natural running experience with comfort and style.

Puma Women's Voltaic 3 NM Running Shoe

PUMA Women's Voltaic 3 NM is made with breathable mesh accustomed with Puma’s 10 cell technology. This running shoe is equipped with lace-ups for midsole security. It's created with an eco-friendly removable sock liner that encourages air circulation. The carbon manmade sole was designed for reinforcement and extra stability.

Puma has created a wonderful shoe in an array of bright colors fit for any runner.

Aetrex Women's Lenex Triple Strap Walker

Aetrex Women's Lenex Triple Strap Walker is a sleek athletic shoe that combines functionality and convenience. The Lenex Triple Strap Walker was created with perforated leather to encourage airflow to keep feet healthy and dry. The well-made walking shoe has a molded footbridge extending from the front and back of the shoe which promotes control and firmness.

This particular walking shoe comes equipped with Velcro straps that go across the middle of the shoe along with a rear nylon pull strap for extra stability and security. It was made with EVA midsole and EVA medial arch support, alleviating the walker from stress and pain caused by high impact activities.