Whether you're someone who's always enjoyed walking or you've recently committed to getting your daily step count up, you'll want to make sure you're equipped with the best trainers for walking. Finding the correct yet fashionable trainers will ensure your feet are supported during every step you take. Plus, you'll look the part.
Walking is a great form of exercise, with lots of physical and mental health benefits. It can give you a new appreciation for your surroundings. And the joy that can be found in going outside for a daily walk is unrivalled. Walking outdoors in the UK can be very rewarding and is fantastic for a change of scenery, getting fresh air, and sunlight - not to mention, moving your body.
Best trainers for walking at a glance:
• Best lightweight walking shoes: Mountain Warehouse Outdoor Walking Shoes - view at Mountain Warehouse
• Best for wide feet: Mcleod Wide Fit Womens Walking Shoes - view at Mountain Warehouse
• Best for cushioning: Nike Motiva Women's Walking Shoes - view at Nike
Sometimes overlooked as a form of exercise, walking can help you build stamina, burn calories and improve your heart health. Of course, going for a walk doesn't always have to involve going on a scenic adventure. There are benefits to just simply going for a stroll around your neighbourhood or opting to travel by foot instead of the car when you're nipping out close by. With a walk, you can go at a slow or brisk pace.
If you're wanting to take up walking as an ongoing habit for a healthy lifestyle change, the best trainers will make sure your feet are comfortable and can go the distance. Just make sure you're clued up on how to clean your trainers properly to keep them comfy and clean, especially if you've had a particularly muddy walk. If you're looking for trainers for wider feet, then not to worry! Plenty of brands are making shoes especially.
Best trainers for walking
1.
Hoka Bondi 8
Best for comfort
Hokawww.hoka.com
Description
While on the expensive side, these Hoka Bondi 8 trainers are definitely worth it. With many raving reviews, they come in a choice of stylish designs and are suited for wider feet. In a plush cushioned sole, these vegan-friendly trainers are some of the best you can buy. They have exceptional grip and are easy to get on and off.
Customer review: "I had foot surgery a these are the only shoes I've been able to wear. I love my hokas so much, I bought my kids a pair for Christmas."
Pros
- Selection of colours
- Popular choice
- Flexible and soft
Cons
- Back heel doesn't have as much structure
Best lightweight walking shoes
Mountain Warehousewww.mountainwarehouse.com
Description
Perfect for hiking, long walks and everyday use, these Mountain Warehouse Outdoor Walking Shoes have heel and toe bumpers to protect your feet from direct impact, as well as ensuring your footwear lasts longer. Durable and breathable, the cushioning footbed moulds well to your foot to provide the comfort and support you need whilst out and about. Not only that, but the rubber outsole makes this addition flexible and lighweight - and long-lasting.
Customer review: "Comfortable walking shoes with great grip and nice range of colours."
Pros
- Affordable
- Good support
- Funky colour
Cons
- Sole could be thicker
Best for wet walks
Regattawww.regatta.com
Description
Waterproof, breathable and comfy, what more could you want from a walking trainer? The Lady Vendeavour Walking Shoes from Regatta are perfect for walks in the great outdoors as they're made with a seam-sealed Isotex fabric that will keep rainfall and splashes at bay and keep your feet as fresh as can be. The EVA footbed ensures you have all the comfort and support you need underfoot.
Customer review: "Great shoes, so comfortable from day one. Waterproof and breathable so your feet stay cool. Excellent grip, have walked miles in them on all types of terrain and can honestly say they are the best walking shoes I have ever had."
Pros
- Choice of colours
- Waterproof
- Comfortable EVA footbed
Cons
- Some customers would have liked more arch support
Best for wide feet
Mountain Warehousewww.mountainwarehouse.com
Description
In need of a pair of wide-fit trainers? These Mcleod Wide Fit Women's Walking Shoes come with durable and breathable, a lighter style of footwear for hiking and walking. They're spacious and comfortable so you'll be able to find the right fit at last! Lightweight, flexible and breathable, we love it.
Customer Review: "Excellent quality. Lightweight."
Pros
- Durable and breathable
- Extra cushioning for comfort
- Traction on the sole for stability
Cons
- Feet will feel hotter inside compared to wearing mesh trainers
Best for cushioning
Nikewww.nike.com
Description
Whether you're out for a walk with friends or on a solo trip to the shops, these Nike Motiva Women's Walking Shoes will squeeze some added self-care into your life with their comfortable cushioning designed specifically for women's feet. The midsole is made from a springy and durable foam which will react to your feet with every mile. Plus, the outsole pattern provides durability and traction.
Customer review: "The most comfortable trainer I have ever worn, very bouncy, great for running. I have brought all the colours as I love them."
Pros
- For a super smooth walk
- Cushioned foam
- Uniquely patterned
Cons
- Better for casual wear
Best overall
John Lewiswww.johnlewis.com
Description
MERRELL's Siren 4 is uniquely engineered to cradle the distinct contours of female feet, providing comfort, support, and stability even on the longest hikes. With a stylish design that won't look out of place in the city or on the trails, this hiking shoe is a great all rounder whether you're on a city break or a woodland walk. With a waterproof GORE-TEX membrane that retains its breathability you won't get caught out by the weather.
Reviewed by Yours Deputy Digital Editor Stephanie Spencer, "I've tried out a couple of walking trainer brands now and these are by far the best. They were comfortable straight out of the box, and so versatile too. I've worn them on dog walks in the forest, into London, on a city break abroad and even for running on my local paths. They've been reliable throughout summer and even into winter, keeping my feet dry and preventing any blisters from sweaty feet. The footbed feels lovely and springy, giving my heels some bounce upon impact with the ground, and there's a good bit of arch support as well. They're easy to wipe down with a cloth and despite plenty of use still look in great condition. I'd definitely recommend these to anyone looking for a decent all-rounder walking trainer that are comfortable and can be used for a variety of activities."
Pros
- Stylish design makes them suitable for lots of activities
- Easy to clean
- Available in half sizes and a selection of colours
Cons
- Some reviews mentioned they felt tight around the ankle at first
Best for high arches
Skecherswww.sportsdirect.com
Description
These comfy, casual walking trainers have a removable Arch Fit cushioning insole system with podiatrist-certified arch support. This has been specifically designed to help distribute pressure across the arch, and provide stability, balance and support. These Skechers Women's Arch Fit Big Appeal Sneakers are engineered for maximum comfort.
Pros
- Engineered for comfort
- Podiatrist-certified arch support
- Air-cooled memory foam
Cons
- Could do with more cushion
Best slip-on trainers for walking
AmazonDescription
These easy-to-slip-on-and-off STQ Women's Walking Sneakers come in a range of colours to suit your style and still provide excellent comfort with air-cushioned, memory foam soles. Lightweight, breathable and with arch support, you're guaranteed comfort wherever you go.
Customer Review: "I've been wearing them today and my feet feel very happy in them. I do think with having problem feet. I need support the fact that they are lightweight is an added bonus. Very comfortable very happy with them up to now. Highly recommend."
Pros
- Lightweight
- Lots of colours
- Easy to slip on
Cons
- Some reviewers have commented that the shoe opening can be a little tight
Best adaptable walking trainers
www.reebok.eu
Description
These Work N Cushion 4.03 Shoes from Reebok are designed to adapt to you, with a supportive fit and cushioning for protection. As well as being perfect for walks, they're a great all-round stylish trainer that wouldn't look out of place with most outfits. A definite must-have.
Pros
- Available in white and black
- Built with cushioning to support from heel to toe
- Oil-resistant, anti-slip rubber outsole
Cons
- No customer reviews
Best for grip
Kalenjiwww.decathlon.co.uk
Description
These Kalenji Run Active Grip Women's Shoes are ideal for trail running and walking, hence why they have a good grip at their base. We love how practical and stylish they are, with several colour options.
Customer review: "Very comfortable running shoes and stylish."
Pros
- Strong grip
- Attractive colours
- High quality
Cons
- Some want them to be more waterproof
Best for waterproof trainers
Decathlonwww.decathlon.co.uk
Description
If you enjoy hiking, it's worth investing in a pair of QUECHUA Waterproof shoes as they're suited to damp conditions and wet weather. For extra comfort, there's plenty of cushioning and a split leather upper.
Customer Review: "I searched for waterproof walking shoes for dog walking. The reviews were good and I loved the colour and design. I was a little concerned about whether I might need to go up half a size but the fit is perfect. They are very comfortable and keep my feet dry. They’ve scrubbed up well too when cleaned. They’ll need proofing at some point but without maintenance nothing will stay waterproof. So pleased with my purchase."
Pros
- Robust design
- Weblock system
- Four colourways
Cons
- Limited size options
How we chose the best trainers for walking
All of these trainers for walking have been hand-selected by our team of Yours Magazine's shopping experts. We carefully considered the support, fit and budget in our selection.
Our team has spent hours investigating and researching trainers to make it easier for you to find the very best, and we'd never recommend a product we don't believe in.
Where possible, we also test and share the latest and best products you should know about.
Buyers Guide
If you're asking yourself: what do I need to look for in the right shoe? You've come to the right place. Thanks to the experts at Trespass, we have some fitting advice to choose the right shoe for you. Though we're often taught that we need to break our shoes in, a correct-fitting shoe will feel right from the start.
Comfort
This should always be your priority. If you're unhappy with how they feel, you won't enjoy your walk and this can hurt you. As such, Trespass recommends ensuring "the heel collar, insole, and midsole of the walking shoe [are] cushioned for maximum comfort."
Flexibility
Flexibility comes next. You should be able to "move your toes with flex, resulting in a smooth and steady action," says the outdoor clothing brand. The shoe should flex in the same spots as your foot.
Durability
This is something else to look out for. After all, you want your precious pair to last. Think of how many times you intend to use them and what for. Then, this will determine the materials and textiles. Walking shoes are typically synthetic because "synthetic materials are lower in weight," adds Trespass.
Stability
Stability needs to be considered, also. Whether hiking or going for a stroll, your walking shoes should feel "secure and balanced throughout the range of action", says Trespass. The brand recommends bending or twisting the shoe in your hands as this can evaluate "if it has good lateral support".
Fit
This may seem like an obvious factor for consideration, but it's important. Those of us sporting wider feet may be accustomed to discomfort and restriction in footwear. Luckily, wide-fitting shoes are now common. Opt for styles with " a wide toe box which allows ample room for your toes to move."
Materials
Materials, as mentioned above, make the shoe. For this factor, we suggest paying attention to its construction, which "will determine how long the shoes last and if they provide enough comfort." Trespass suggests looking at the upper, midsole and outsole, particularly, for this check.
Arch support
This support is also essential when buying trainers for walking. Trainers with arch support will have a robust midsole, which offers cushioning for the arch of your foot. This is important - as the arch takes a lot of the shock absorption when we take a step. So, check if the midsole is supportive and protective.
Price
Looking for budget-friendly shoes may be at the top of the list. Whilst pricier options will usually provide more support and durability, there are some decent walking trainers at an affordable price. High-quality walking shoes could "mean the difference between a comfortable hike or a more challenging trek."
Weight
Consider the weight of your walking trainers. As a general rule: the lighter the shoe, the better. Lightweight shoes will help with fatigue and keep you active for longer.
Waterproof
If you're likely to trek outdoors in wet weather, which is expected in the UK, choose a synthetic material. It needs to be not only breathable, comfortable and durable but should protect your socks from the rain.
Grip
Trespass says that "a good grip will give you better stability in slippery conditions."
Care
Make sure to try shoes before you buy/throw out the receipt and find the ones that fit perfectly right for you. Take care of them by washing your trainers correctly so you can make them last.
One last thing...
So, how do we avoid picking misfitting trainers? When trying on new trainers, test them in the afternoon as your feet may have swollen over the day. Over the years, our feet naturally change shape and size so it might take some trial and error to find the right fit - it'll be worth it in the end!
FAQs
What is the difference between trainers and walking shoes?
Walking and running objectively seem like similar activities. However, the two are different, as are the demands they place on your feet and footwear.
When walking, your body weight is spread more evenly on your feet compared to when you are running. There are points where both feet are firmly on the ground, diverging the amount of weight your feet support.
Running, on the other hand, demands the support of at least two to three times your body weight as each stride has moments with neither of your feet positioned on the ground.
Walking shoes are designed with the specific body mechanics of walking in mind. Built to be more flexible through the ball of the foot to provide more range of motion. It also provides more arch support to protect where the force is heaviest on foot.
Walking trainers on the other hand provide extra ankle support for both forward and lateral movement. These make for perfect gym shoes for the average gym-goer and are typically more fashionable trainers that can be worn casually. They have not been developed for use in long runs and are best used for shorter stints.
Walk1000Miles challenge
Have you upped your walking activity? Then how about setting yourself the challenge of Walk1000Miles?
Run by our friends at Country Walking magazine, it's a great way to get out and about in the countryside, make friends, lose weight and most of all have fun!
Eleanor Weaver is the Deputy Homes & Garden Product Editor for Yours, specialising in home décor, furnishings and appliances. Having worked commercially on Yours magazine and Yours.co.uk for the past six years, she's previously hosted Yours Live events and loves looking for home inspiration online.