Walking is one of the most accessible and beneficial forms of exercise, whether you’re strolling through city streets, hiking countryside paths, or simply walking to work. Finding the right walking shoes is essential for comfort, support, and overall foot health, particularly for women who need footwear that fits well, looks good, and performs even better. In the UK, where weather can be unpredictable and terrain can vary from flat pavements to uneven countryside trails, it’s important to choose shoes that will stand up to the challenge. This guide will walk you through the walking shoes for women uk, focusing on comfort, durability, and style.
Key Features to Look for in Walking Shoes
When selecting walking shoes, it’s crucial to look for certain features that ensure both comfort and performance. Here’s a breakdown of what you should consider:
- Comfort and Cushioning: A well-cushioned insole, padded collar, and comfortable arch support are essential for long walks.
- Breathability: Shoes with breathable uppers will help keep your feet cool and dry, preventing blisters and discomfort.
- Waterproofing: The UK’s unpredictable weather can bring rain at any moment, so waterproof shoes are a must for staying dry.
- Traction and Stability: A slip-resistant, durable outsole with good grip is essential for stability on various terrains, especially when walking on wet or uneven surfaces.
- Lightweight Design: Lightweight shoes reduce foot fatigue, allowing you to walk longer without discomfort.
With these considerations in mind, let’s take a look at some of the best walking shoes for women in the UK.
1. Skechers Go Walk Joy
The Skechers Go Walk Joy is a popular choice for women seeking a lightweight, comfortable walking shoe that doesn’t compromise on style. Known for its Ultra Go cushioning, these shoes provide excellent comfort and support for long walks, whether you’re out for a leisurely stroll or brisk walk. The mesh upper is highly breathable, ensuring your feet stay cool and dry throughout the day.
The GOga Max high-rebound insole offers added comfort, while the slip-on design makes them easy to wear and perfect for women who need to quickly slip them on for a walk. Additionally, the flexible outsole offers excellent traction, making it ideal for walking on smooth pavements or light trails.
Best For: Everyday walks, comfort, and convenience.
2. New Balance 990v5
For those who want a blend of style and performance, the New Balance 990v5 offers one of the best walking shoes for women. Known for its classic look and superb comfort, the 990v5 features a multi-layer mesh upper and pigskin suede overlays, providing a breathable and supportive fit. The shoe also includes ENCAP cushioning, which provides stability and shock absorption with each step.
The rubber outsole offers excellent traction on a variety of surfaces, and the shoe’s midfoot support ensures your feet stay stable throughout the day. These shoes are designed for all-day wear, making them perfect for everything from city walks to light hiking in the countryside.
Best For: Women looking for a durable, supportive shoe with a classic design.
3. Merrell Moab 3 Waterproof
Merrell is known for producing excellent outdoor footwear, and the Moab 3 Waterproof walking shoe is no exception. If you’re planning on walking in the UK’s often unpredictable weather, the Moab 3 features M Select™ DRY waterproof technology, ensuring your feet stay dry even during the rainiest walks.
The Vibram® outsole offers superior traction, providing grip on everything from muddy trails to wet pavements. The shoe’s Kinetic Fit™ ADVANCED insole provides extra arch support, while the air cushion in the heel absorbs shock to reduce fatigue during longer walks. The Moab 3 also has a breathable mesh lining, which keeps your feet comfortable during warmer months.
Best For: Wet weather and outdoor walks in the UK.
4. Asics Gel-Nimbus 24
For women looking for a shoe with superior cushioning for long-distance walking, the Asics Gel-Nimbus 24 is a fantastic option. The Gel cushioning system in both the heel and forefoot provides excellent shock absorption, ensuring that every step feels cushioned and comfortable. The FlyteFoam midsole also helps to enhance cushioning and durability, allowing for a smooth stride from start to finish.
The Jacquard mesh upper offers a snug yet breathable fit, while the AHAR+ rubber outsole provides excellent durability and traction on a variety of surfaces. This walking shoe is designed for long walks, making it ideal for those who like to take extended walks through parks, along the beach, or around the city.
Best For: Comfort and cushioning during long-distance walks.
5. Columbia Women’s Redmond V2 Waterproof
The Columbia Redmond V2 Waterproof is an excellent choice for women who want a walking shoe that can handle both urban streets and light trails. Featuring Omni-Tech™ waterproof technology, your feet will stay dry in even the wettest conditions, making these shoes perfect for the UK’s unpredictable weather.
The Omni-Grip™ outsole provides excellent traction on both wet and dry surfaces, while the Techlite™ midsole offers superior cushioning and support. With a breathable mesh upper and suede overlays, these shoes are built for comfort, stability, and durability, whether you’re walking through city streets or exploring countryside paths.
Best For: Versatile walking shoes for both urban and light outdoor walks.
6. Nike Air Zoom Pegasus 39
The Nike Air Zoom Pegasus 39 is a great walking shoe for women who want a lightweight, responsive shoe with plenty of cushioning. The Zoom Air units in the forefoot and heel provide responsive cushioning, while the React foam midsole offers a smooth, soft ride during every stride.
The mesh upper enhances breathability, ensuring your feet stay cool even during extended walks. The shoe’s rubber outsole with a waffle pattern provides excellent traction, making it suitable for a range of surfaces. These shoes are particularly well-suited for women who are looking for a walking shoe that combines performance with sleek, modern style.
Best For: Women who want a lightweight, high-performance walking shoe for both speed and comfort.
7. FitVille Women’s EasyTop Wings Diabetic Shoes V2
For women with special foot health needs, such as diabetes, the FitVille EasyTop Wings Diabetic Shoes V2 are an excellent option. These shoes are designed with comfort and foot health in mind, featuring extra width up to 6E and adjustable Velcro straps for easy adjustability. The U-shaped heel cup helps relieve heel pain, while the cushioned collar and silky lining prevent friction and irritation.
The shoes are also equipped with a slip-resistant rubber outsole for added stability and safety during walks. The breathable PU leather upper and OrthoLite® insole ensure comfort and support, making these shoes ideal for all-day wear, whether you’re walking through the city or enjoying nature.
Best For: Diabetic women or those with foot health concerns looking for comfort and support.
Conclusion
Choosing the best walking shoes for women in the UK comes down to balancing comfort, durability, and performance. Whether you’re walking in the city, on a trail, or through rainy weather, the right pair of shoes will make your walk more enjoyable and reduce the risk of injury. From the lightweight Skechers Go Walk Joy to the waterproof Merrell Moab 3, there are plenty of excellent options to suit your needs.
When selecting your walking shoes, make sure to consider your specific requirements, including cushioning, breathability, support, and weatherproofing. With the right pair of shoes, you’ll be ready to explore the great outdoors—or simply walk to the shops—with ease and comfort.
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