Although known for being gentler on the joints compared to running, the repetitive nature of walking can still cause issues, hence why it’s important to invest in proper footwear.

It can be overwhelming and hard to know which shoes are right for you with the wide range of brands and styles on the market right now. However, we recommend looking into a pair that will provide extra arch support, cushioning, ventilation and flexibility.

Once you have a pair of comfortable women’s walking shoes, the low-impact activity will become much more easy on your feet.

A review published in the British Journal of Sports Medicine in 2014 found that not only did regular walkers show improved blood pressure, lower resting heart rate, reduction of body fat and weight, and reduced cholesterol – but they also reported improved mental health scores and better quality of life, too.

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The news.com.au checkout team have rounded up our favourite shoes for walking including the ASICS GEL-NIMBUS 26, $260 at THE ICONIC which shoppers have called “next-level comfortable”. Plus, if you’re looking for a more sleek option the Cariuma OCA Low Off-White Canvas are a great pick.

BEST OVERALL WALKING AND RUNNING SHOES

OCA Low Off-White Canvas, $109 at Cariuma

Why we love it: Classic style that will last for years.

What to consider: While still comfortable, not as incredibly supportive as the more traditional runner style. 

Material: Organic cotton canvas | Colours: 18 colours including white, pink and red| Drop: Considerable

What You Need To Know

Although they don’t look like your ‘typical’ walking or running shoes, this pair by Cariuma takes style and comfort to the next level. Made from high-end raw materials, these casual sneakers feature a lightweight cushioned insole, a perfectly weighted rubber sole and a classic cap toe design.

They boast a 4.87 out of five-star rating with many reviewers raving about how ‘comfortable’ they are for all day wear.

“No break in time needed. Wore all day while working on my feet, and my feet were happy. Can add my custom orthotics on top of Cariuma arch supports, and sneaker still fits beautifully,” one reviewer wrote.

“They were comfortable right out of the box! The insole, come on, like a cloud! I have narrow feet and a high arch. When people say shoes have great arch support, they generally barely touch my arches, let alone support them. These are different, they happily hug my arch and provide a soft yet strong bounce when I walk. I think they’d meld to anyone’s foot. The shoe itself is so cute,” another wrote.

Not to mention, each pair of sneakers purchased plants two trees – so you’ll look good and do good. If you aren’t a fan of the canvas material, this style is also available in suede, leather, and many more colourways.

SHOP HERE

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ASICS GEL-EXCITE 9, $136.61 at OZSALE

Why we love it:  Great all-rounder shoe that’s suitable for most people

What to consider: Older style so not many sizes left

Material: Engineered jacquard mesh upper | Colours: Only one colour | Drop: 10 mm

What You Need To Know

Casual fitness runners, this one’s for you. The GEL-EXCITE 9 is an extremely comfortable trainer made with a jacquard mesh upper to increase airflow while creating a softer feel against your foot. The midsole is made up of a combination of AMPLIFOAM cushioning and GEL technology to provide better durability. They also work super well as a trailing running shoe too if you’re looking to go for some hikes or bush walks. 

It holds a 4.5 average rating on the ASICS website with shoppers raving about the arch support and saying how “comfortable” and “lightweight” they are. Other five-star reviewers write that is is “perfect” or those who suffer from plantar fasciitis and that they are super “supportive”.

“My new shoes are like stepping into comfy slippers as usual. Fit is true to size, width and quality good. Purchased the Lilac colour for brightness in the winter season, love them. Whether I’m walking, cycling or a gym workout, these shoes are fab and lightweight,” one shopper wrote.

“As usual with ASICS, super comfortable, light and breathable. Put them on and pretty much forget you’re wearing them … great shoes,” another wrote.

SHOP HERE

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ASICS GEL-NIMBUS 26, $260 at THE ICONIC

Why we love it: Super cushioned

What to consider: Thick sole may not be for everyone

Material: Engineered knit upper| Colours: Seven colours including blue, white and black | Drop: 41.5mm – 33.5mm

What You Need To Know

A step up from the iconic ASICS GEL-NIMBUS 25, the GEL-NIMBUS 26 will be your new go-to walking and running shoe. It offers upgraded lightweight cushioning that will make you feel like you’re landing on clouds. Revamped with updated PureGEL technology for enhanced shock absorption, it also has a new soft and stretchy knit upper for ventilation and an updated tongue to provide better flexibility.

The brand even had The Biomechanics Lab, South Australia, independently design a comfort test that found the shoes were deemed more comfortable compared with three comparable competitor shoes – so you can rest assured your next walk will be comfy with this pair on. Plus, if you have flat feet and good arch support is important to you then you really can’t go wrong with ASICS. 

Also available in a range of other colourways.

Five-star reviewers rave about the comfort level. “I’ve got to say they feel amazing. The cushioning is next-level comfortable, and the feel of the upper is luxurious,” wrote one happy customer.

Another said, “These are, hands down, the best athletic shoes I’ve ever owned. I’m a nurse and I spend a lot of time on my feet. When I slip on these beauties, I feel like I’m walking on a cloud.”

SHOP HERE

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Hoka Clifton 9 Womens, $259.99 at The Athletes Foot

Why we love it: Foam compound provides a lighter underfoot experience 

What to consider: Best for those with an average to high arch

Material: Engineered Knit Upper | Colours: Multiple colours including black, blue and multicoloured | Drop: 5 mm

What You Need To Know

When it comes to the best walking shoes Hoka will always be mentioned in the list, and for good reason. These are the latest runners in Hoka’s award-winning Clifton collection and feature a lighter midsole and updated engineered mesh upper compared to previous versions. 

Features include a 3mm stack height, gusseted tongue, breathable knit upper, durabrasion rubber outsole, compression moulded EVA midsole and a plusher heel with a reflective panel. They also carry the Australian Podiatry Association (APodA) Seal of Acceptance for being beneficial to foot health. 

“First time making the switch away from another brand in about 10 years and I am not disappointed. Didn’t take anytime to break in. Love them!” one five-star review reads.

Another five-star review wrote, “Worth the cost. Very comfortable for my wide feet. Tender yet firm soles make walking fun again.”

SHOP HERE

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UA HOVR™ Sonic 6 Running Shoes, $160 at Under Armour

Why we love it: Incredibly lightweight

What to consider: No specific arch support

Material: Engineered mesh upper | Colours: Eight colours including black, orange and turquoise | Drop: 8mm

What You Need To Know

You can’t go wrong with Under Armour for quality, supportive shoes and this pair is one you need. With a four out of five-star rating, these lightweight shoes feature a 3D-molded sock liner to provide comfort, an engineered mesh upper with seamless forefoot for stability and responsive UA HOVR™ cushioning to absorb impact. Perfect for anything between walking, running and workouts, reviewers say they “can’t get better”.

“I am so glad I bought these!! I’ve been wanting the perfect shoe for the gym and these are it!! They’re so light and comfortable, I have flat feet and haven’t felt any kind of rubbing when I wear them all day,” wrote one five-star review.

SHOP HERE

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BEST CUSHIONED WALKING SHOES FOR WOMEN

Brooks Addiction Walker Velcro 2 – Women’s, $249.95 at THE ICONIC

Why we love it: Great arch support

What to consider: Velcro tabs instead of laces 

Material: Full-grain leather upper | Colours: White and black | Drop: 12mm

What You Need To Know

As the name suggests these runners were designed for walking. Features include a cushioned collar, tongue and heel as well as a slip-resistant rubber sole. It also has BioMoGo DNA cushioning in the midsole and two velcro tabs for ultimate comfort.

“These shoes may not be the most stylish but at 46 I don’t care,” one five star review on the Brooks website reads.

“These are incredible walking shoes that are super supportive for long walks. I’m currently on my third pair of these.

“I take daily walks and often very long walks and no other shoe can compare and I’ve been looking.”

Another happy customer wrote, “They are so comfortable, I have a lot of trouble with shoes as I have plantar fasciitis, heel spurs, Achilles tendinitis, and flat feet. And I’m so grateful for these shoes”.

SHOP HERE

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New Balance Fresh Foam 680v7, $100 (down from $150) at THE ICONIC

Why we love it: Great option for those first getting into running 

What to consider: Some reviewers write that while they like them, they wouldn’t wear them for long distances 

Material: Engineered mesh upper | Colours: Only black | Drop: 8mm drop

What You Need To Know

While this pair is designed for running beginners they’re also New Balance’s most popular choice of shoe for walking on their website at the time of publishing. Designed for comfort above all, the Fresh Foam 680v7 has a midsole that provides plush underfoot and a rubber outsole for traction. The engineered double jacquard mesh is nonrestrictive on your toes, and the moulded footbed maximises comfort. They come in four chic colourways to suit your wardrobe.

“I wanted a good walking shoe that would be good for walking through airports when I travel … when I put them on the first time, they were instantly comfortable!” one five-star review reads.

“No pressure point sores or pain anywhere! I can wear these shoes all day and my feet never tire. I really love these shoes and they are very cute, have had several compliments on them!”

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Skechers GOWalk Hyper Burst, from $76.33 at Amazon Australia

Why we love it: Reviewers love how lightweight these shoes are

What to consider: Reviews have mixed opinions on the fit

Material: Breathable mesh and synthetic upper | Colours: All black, taupe and back/white | Drop: 1 1/4-inch heel

What You Need To Know

The Skechers brand is known for its comfortable footwear, making it no surprise that its GOWalk sneakers come so highly rated with its 4.8 out of five-star rating. Featuring a slip-on design, breathable knit mesh construction and cushioned heel, these machine-washable shoes are perfect for everyday walking. They’re also a fairly affordable walking shoe in comparison to other shoes on this list. 

You can shop them in more colourways including black/white, taupe and navy.

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Bountiful Quick Path Sneaker, $99.99 at Skechers

Why we love it: Memory foam sole that shapes to your feet

What to consider: Some shoppers found the sizing to run small

Material: Soft knit mesh fabric upper | Colours: Four colours | Drop: 3.2 cm / 1.25 inch heel

What You Need To Know

Blending lightweight flexibility with cushioning for all your walking and workout needs, the Bountiful Quick Path feature soft knit mesh and a memory foam insole for ultimate comfort.

One of many thrilled reviewers commented: “Absolutely fantastic! These shoes are lightweight, comfortable and just feel like an extension of my foot! The memory foam is excellent and I can walk all day without sore feet now.”

SHOP HERE

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Ultraboost 5 DNA Shoes, $280 at adidas

Why we love it: Great for exercise but also trendy enough to wear every day

What to consider: Many reviewers recommend sizing up

Material: adidas PRIMEKNIT textile upper | Colours: Four colour options | Drop: 10mm

What You Need To Know

These popular Adidas runners have a boost midsole for added comfort while walking as well as Adidas’ signature Primeknit upper. The lightweight runners also have a stretchweb outsole made from Continental Rubber for added tread and grip.

One five-star review on Google reads, “I’ve been waiting to get my hands on these for a long time now and I have to say, the wait was well worth it. These are the most comfortable Adidas I’ve ever worn.”

Another writes, “It’s like walking on clouds. The color is beautiful and they’re extremely comfortable. Great fit for a wider foot.”

SHOP HERE

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BEST SUSTAINABLE WALKING SHOES FOR WOMEN

Women’s Tree Dasher 2, $215 at allbirds

Why we love it: Improved heel collar to keep the ankle in place

What to consider: Best for everyday walks, jogs and light workouts 

Material: FSC-certified TENCEL™ Lyocell (eucalyptus tree fibre) upper | Colours: 11 colours including yellow, green and red | Drop: 7mm

What You Need To Know

This shoe is carbon neutral so both you and your feet can feel good knowing you’re not harming the environment when you pop these on. Featuring a seamless one-piece upper for maximum comfort and a lightly padded heel collar to lock your ankle in place, these walking sneakers are super comfortable. It also has a flexible, cushioned foam sole for the ultimate support.

“These shoes might change your life,” starts one five-star review. They go on to say, “They are just so freaking comfortable. I never want to take them off, even when I’ve been wearing them for hours.”

SHOP HERE

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BEST WHITE WALKING SHOES FOR WOMEN

Reebok Princess Shoes, $100 at THE ICONIC

Why we love it: Sleek style to wear with regular clothing

What to consider: Not suitable for high-intensity activities

Material: Smooth leather upper | Colours: White and black | Drop: Small drop

What You Need To Know

If you’re a fan of the all-white sneaker look, this walking shoe will slot into your repertoire perfectly. Boasting a synthetic leather upper for ultimate breathability, a high abrasion rubber outsole for extra grip, an EVA midsole for added cushioning, and a terry lining for softness, the Reebok Princess style is a triumph. They’re also another great affordable walking shoe option. 

SHOP HERE

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BEST WALKING SANDALS FOR WOMEN

Teva Midform Universal, $120 at THE ICONIC

Why we love it: Super comfortable shoe for when sneakers just won’t cut it

What to consider: Not as comfortable as a fully enclosed shoe

Material:Quick-dry webbing made from recycled plastic using traceable, verifiable REPREVE® polyester yarn | Colours: Black | Drop: 3.2cm rubber flatform sole

What You Need To Know

Teva sandals have been around since the 80s, but they’re back in style right now and better than ever. Here’s what former news.com.au checkout writer Dani Maher says about hers: “Being the proud owner of a pair of the Midform Universals myself, I can confirm that they are the comfiest summer shoe you will ever wear – seriously. The moulded EVA midsole offers heel cupping and some of the best arch support for sandals. They will make you feel like you’re walking on a cloud, and the textured finish is like a mini massage. Don’t be intimidated by the 3.2cm flatform – it’s just extra cushioning for comfort, and they’re still ridiculously easy to walk around in all day long. I’ve worn mine on trips to the beach, the shops, or just walks around the neighbourhood, and have gotten dozens of compliments on the retro chunky style. If it’s not to your taste, Teva have plenty more designs and colours to buy.”

SHOP HERE

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FitFlop Lulu Leather Toepost Womens Sandals, $169.99 at The Athlete’s Foot

Why we love it: Much more comfortable sandal than a rubber thong

What to consider: Only few sizes left in stock

Material: Metallic Leather and microfibre-lined upper | Colours: Rose Gold | Drop: Considerable heel

What You Need To Know

Stylish and practical sandals? Yes please! This pair by FitFlop features a triangular thong-style vamp strap with microfibre lining to prevent skin irritation, slip slip-resistant rubber outsole and the Microwobbleboard midsoles that not only absorb shock but can diffuse pressure under the foot. But, keep in mind, if you need arch support, these might not be the bets for you. 

This timeless style boasts a 4.7 average rating on Google with shopper praising how “comfortable” they are – some even say “it feels like you are walking on a cloud”.

“I have always loved the FitFlop thongs, and I never fail to buy another pair when my last pair wear out. I love that I can find a casual pair, and have the choice of finding a dressy pair as well. I am always telling everyone how it feels like you are walking on a cloud as they are so cushiony, and I love the extra height they have as well. I feel like I want to wear them everywhere, as they also, for me, relieve leg and lower back pain,” one shopper wrote.

“Love FitFlop. They are my go to sandal. They are soooooo comfy, always look good dressed up or casual. No discomfort, no blisters – just relaxing to walk in and you don’t have to break them in, just wear and walk,” another wrote.

SHOP HERE

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Propet Pedwalker Sandal Womens, $189.99 at The Athlete’s Foot

Why we love it: A more supportive sandal option

What to consider: Designed for leisure rather than sport

Material: Full grain leather | Colours: Black | Drop: Low heel

What You Need To Know

Made for leisurely walking, these sandals are designed to provide a seamless and non-abrasive feel. Made from a combination of leather and neoprene it has two adjustable straps for a comfy fit.

“My mother finds it hard to find shoes to fit but these ones were the first pair she had bought in years and she absolutely loves them,” said one five-star review on Google.

SHOP HERE

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Active Flex Naples Blush Diamante Sandals, $89.95 at Myer

Why we love it: Moulded, supportive sandal that works just as well with dresses as it does with shorts

What to consider: $9.95 for standard delivery

Material: Syntehtic upper | Colours: Five colours | Drop: 2-4cm heel

What You Need To Know

These diamante-encrusted sandals by Active Flex are just as practical as they are cute. This glitzy pair boasts a lightweight and durable design, and features a three cm heel height, adjustable velcro strap and a moulded footbed for comfort. Easy to pop on, you’ll be wearing this pair all summer long. With a five star rating on Myer, one customer had this to say, “These are the most comfortable sandals I have found, I have bad feet and these help so much and can wear them for a long period of time without my feet hurting. I have a few colours now which look great as well as the comfort.”

Not a fan of blush pink? It’s also available in black, grey, navy and taupe.

SHOP HERE

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BEST WATER-REPELLENT WALKING SHOES FOR WOMEN

Women’s Wool Runner Mizzles, $185 at allbirds

Why we love it: Keeps your feet protected in wet weather

What to consider: Merino wool keeps your feet cosy in winter but may be hot in summer

Material: ZQ Merino wool | Colours: 15 colours including green, grey and blue | Drop: Short 

What You Need To Know

From sustainable New Zealander brand Allbirds come these lightweight, extremely comfortable and water-repellent sneakers. Crafted from cozy Merino wool with a bio-based water-repelling shield and no-slip natural rubber sole, these are a perfect pair for those who love to walk whether there’s rain, hail or shine. They come in a wide range of chic colours making them great for running errands as well as actual exercise too. 

“I live in Tasmania and my feet are permanently cold in the winter months. These shoes are like wearing my woollen slippers except I can wear them when I am out and about too. Perfect for long walks and running errands. They look really smart and I have had lots of people comment on them,” wrote one happy customer.

SHOP HERE

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BEST SLIP ON WALKING SHOES FOR WOMEN

On Cloud 5 Undyed Womens, $229.99 at Hype DC

Why we love it: Great impact protection

What to consider: Some reviewers write the arch support isn’t great

Material: CloudTec® Configuration | Colours: White and black | Drop: Slight drop

What You Need To Know

Simply slip these shoes on and off for complete ease of use. Crafted with a Zero-Gravity cushioned midsole for maximum comfort, these slip on shoes have a near-weightless sensation unlike any other. One five-star review titled “My Saving Grace” describes the shoes as “so light and flexible” and that there was “not a minutes discomfort.” Another said the shoe was great for “relieving pressure on knees and calves.”

“Best shoes ever!! No break-in period required. I have wide feet so had to size half size up. I have been living in them since I revived it,” wrote another happy customer.

SHOP HERE

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WHAT TO LOOK FOR WHEN BUYING WALKING SHOES

When choosing the right walking shoes to include in our list, we evaluated several factors:

Cushioning: Extra support for your joints and muscles is a must when you’ll be on your feet all day. Plus, they will also help with the reduction in injuries like bunions and hammer toes. 

Arch support: Whether you have high arches or flat feet, proper arch support makes a world of difference.

Width: A shoe may be perfect in every single way but if it’s the wrong width, it can make a big difference.  From narrow to wide feet, these are the best shoes for everyone. 

Material: Breathable and lightweight materials that will keep your feet comfortable at all times. Say goodbye to sweaty feet. 

Durability: Shoes that will last and keep your feet protected from the elements. 

Shock absorption: Soles that will absorb the impact of the foot hitting the ground and therefore alleviate impact on the joints. 

Lacing system: Consider whether the lacing system is not only easy to lace but also has enough support for extra ankle stability.

HOW WE CHOOSE PRODUCTS

To help you find the best walking shoes for your needs, we’ve rounded up 17 of the top options for women below, based on real customer reviews and our own experience with the products including the OCA Low Off-White Canvas from Cariuma that reviewers say are like “walking on a cloud”.

Our team of experienced writers spend hours researching products to include in articles. We find out what factors make a good product by talking to experts, reviewing test results and analysing thousands of customer reviews.

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FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS 

WHY IS IT IMPORTANT TO BUY PROPER WALKING SHOES?

Speaking to news.com.au, Principal Podiatrist at Melbourne’s Profeet Podiatry and Active Feet, Oliver Tate, says this problem is exacerbated by wearing incorrect footwear that causes extra stress to your feet, legs, ankles and other joints.

“The repetitive impact of walking places continual stress on the body. If your footwear is a little too supportive, not supportive enough or fits a little awkwardly, those stresses are amplified over and over again,” he says. “This leaves you at risk of overload injuries of the lower limb.”

In his professional experience, Mr Tate says too often people buy their shoes based on colour or aesthetics, rather than its function. Instead, choosing a well-fitted and appropriately supportive shoe could be the small investment that will save you from needing professional invention later on.

“For someone wanting to develop a walking routine and increase their walking, investing in appropriately fitted walking shoes is a great decision,” says Mr Tate. “By investing in footwear now I believe you can minimise the need to visit an allied health professional down the track. Not that that is very good for my business, but it’ll be better for your hip pocket … invest now to save later.”

HOW DO I CHOOSE A WALKING SHOE?

When it comes to choosing the best walking shoes for you, comfort and stability are the two key factors. Mr Tate says research shows choosing a pair of comfortable shoes can go a long way in reducing injury but what is comfortable is user dependent.

“The only way to find out is to try a few pairs on and have a walk around in them,” he instructs. “Some people like cushioning, to feel like they’re walking on clouds, others like a firmer more responsive shoe.”

Shoppers should ensure their foot remains stable too and watch to see if their foot moves inward (pronation) or outwards (supination).

“Stability is important as too much deviation inward or outwards can cause your ankle muscles to work harder to stabilise your foot,” he says. “If you haven’t walked for a while you’re going to want to minimise how hard your ankles have to work so you down overload them.”

Another thing to look out for is a firm heel counter. This is the part of the shoe that wraps around your ankles and prevents overpronation or any rolling of the ankle.

HOW DO I FIND THE PERFECT FIT IN WALKING SHOES?

The key, he says, is whether you can wriggle your toes – a key sign that you’ve found a great fit.

“A good pair of walking shoes should fit comfortably with no hot spots or pressure areas, and an enjoyable amount of space to wriggle the toes,” he said. “At the back of the shoe, the heel counter should lock nicely around the heel so that there is no slipping.”

WHAT ARE THE WORST SHOES FOR YOUR FEET?

According to Steven Waterhouse, Performance Footwear Buyer at The ICONIC, the biggest faux pas we can make is underestimating the importance of the fit of our shoes.

“It’s always a good idea to go up by at least a half-size to allow room for potential swelling, which can naturally happen if you’ve spent a day on your feet,” Steven tells news.com.au. “When shopping for a walking shoe online, take advantage of the size guide and tools available to help make your pick. Here at The ICONIC, we offer a Fit Finder function, which through a short questionnaire based on existing shoes in your wardrobe, offers a personalised size recommendation to help take some of the guesswork out of shopping for your next pair of walking shoes.”

WHAT IS THE TOE BOX OF A SHOE?

The toe box is the section of the show that surrounds the toes. The shape and size of the toe box are vital to ensuring comfort and support. If the toe box is too tight, this can cause deformities like hammer toe but a too wide toe box or too roomy toe box is also not ideal. You should try to have about the width of your finger between your toes and the end of the shoe. 

WHAT IS HEEL DROP AND WHY DOES IT MATTER?

Heel drop is the difference in height between the front of the shoe and the heel. It affects the way you run or walk by shifting pressure onto different parts of your body. A lower heel drop places more pressure on the ankle whereas a higher heel drop moves it up the knees and hips. While heel drop isn’t the most important feature of a running shoe, it can make a big difference so it’s important to consider.

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Find more great footwear recommendations with our guide to the cosiest slippers and warmest boots for winter. Plus, don’t miss our roundup of the best white sneakers for your wardrobe.

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