The Most Comfortable Sneakers for Women, Tested by a Style Writer

ProsGreat for running, specifically racingTons of under-foot cushioningDoesn’t impact running gaitGreat energy returnThe brand ethos of On is to make people feel like they're running on Clouds. It achieves this thanks to its signature Helion Superfoam midsole, which sets itself apart with a construction that blends rigid, stable sections with flexible foam. This combination of materials provides the perfect balance of cushioning and energy return, giving you a bouncy, lightweight feel when your foot hits the pavement. The result is a soft, natural ground feel, rather than an overly bouncy cushioning experience. Fitness contributor Nicolette Accardi says this tech alone is why this shoe is an absolute workhorse when it comes to running (and running fast!). It’s her all-time favorite race shoe—she even ran a half-marathon in it.According to Accardi, the shoe feels firm but still has enough flexibility that her running gait isn’t impacted. The toebox has a ton of room for movement, but still holds the foot in place so each step feels responsive and energetic. Even when her legs feel like they’re about to give out, these shoes pick her right back up. On’s innovative speedboard, a flexible plastic plate wedged between the footbed and midsole, snaps back into place for a bouncy effect after your feet hit the ground. This means the shoe requires less energy output with each stride, making running feel easier. Plus, the rebound that comes with the underfoot cushioning gives a spring in your step.I might not run marathons like Accardi, but I love to wear this shoe for walking and casual jogs. The CloudTec system, which uses air pockets in the midsole (the layer between the insole and the outsole), to create the shoe’s cushiony feel, propels me forward with every step, kind of like walking on a trampoline. And while it’s great for getting your steps in, this shoe has that chunky look that’s super on trend right now. I love pairing it with tailored pants and a boxy T-shirt on top for that upgraded activewear vibe.One thing to note, though, is the sole wears down fast, which we found to be disappointing, especially given that price tag. Accardi says the Clifton 10 has a better tread thanks to its thicker outsole designed for high-friction.Read more: On Cloudmonster 3 ReviewSizes5—11Colors11CushioningMaxBest ForRunning, racing, walkingCredit: Justin Steele For Women's HealthProsPropels foot forward without tons of energy exertion Great for high arches Supportive base that cradles the foot Comes in wide and extra wide optionsConsUpper material wore out pretty quicklyOut of all the sneakers I’ve tried, I find myself wearing the Brooks Ghost Max 3—it’s the newest addition to the Ghost Max series—the most when I want to feel comfortable during walks or runs (yep, it can do both!). That’s because the rocker bottom sole, which has a slight curve to it like a rocking chair, helps propel my foot forward with less energy. Wearing it literally feels like walking on pillows.With the most cushioning of any shoe on this list (and the most cushioning Brooks offers), it’s perfect for those who need extra support. Fitness contributor Talene Appleton says it has extra plush, foamy cushioning, but even for a max cushioned shoe, it’s incredibly stable thanks to Brooks’ signature Guardrails technology, which is a broad base with two pieces of foam on either side of the heel. It reduces the rolling of the foot both inward and outward, so it cradles your foot in place without messing with your stride. According to Appleton, this combination is great for those with higher arches. After hours of walking, she doesn’t feel one ounce of pain or discomfort. And if you have wide feet or bunions, you’re in luck—this shoe comes in both wide and extra-wide options (huge win!).During testing, I did notice that there was some wear and tear on the shoe pretty early on (it had only been a few months of use). The material on the upper of the shoe wore out pretty quickly. While this knocked it down a few points in my book, its supreme comfort still kept this kick at the very top of my list. Plus, I love how many fun colors the shoe comes in—because running and walking should be fun, right?!Read More: Best Brooks Walking ShoesFeatures at a GlanceSizes5—12Colors15CushioningHighBest ForRunning, walkingAdvertisement - Continue Reading BelowCredit: Justin Steele For Women's HealthProsSuper durableLaces never come undoneSuperior cushion to avoid pounding Can be worn right out of the box without a blisterConsNot the best option for narrow feetThe Hoka Clifton 10 is a standout favorite among WH editors for walking—especially for contributor Accardi, who prefers it to the previous Clifton 9 for its increased flexibility and comfort that doesn’t skimp on support. “It is by far the most comfortable model in the series to date,” she says.What makes it so comfortable? This shoe delivers an ultra-smooth ride, thanks to its signature stacked cushioning, which is pieces of foam layered on top of one another that softens impact without adding extra weight. Despite the added foam—3mm more than its predecessor, the Clifton 9—it still feels incredibly lightweight. Every time Accardi wears it, she’s surprised by how plush yet airy it feels, making pavement pounding easier on the feet.Other pros? It’s super stable, it’s great for overpronators (this is when the foot rolls inward when walking or running), and it fits well right out of the box with not a blister in sight. “Not to be dramatic, but this shoe sort of saved my life back in March 2025 when I suffered from a stress fracture in my right foot,” Accardi says. “Wearing the Clifton 10 on my left foot helped me stay comfortable while recovering from my injury.” Unlike other pairs she walked in during her injury, Accardi experienced zero ankle or knee pain with the Clifton 10—and was able to zoom around the city as if she wasn’t wearing a clunky boot on the other foot. She’s since recovered, and the shoe remains one of her favorites for pain-free walking.The shoe features a moderate 8mm drop from heel to forefoot, encouraging a natural midfoot strike rather than a heavy heel strike. This is great for runners or walkers who want a more natural feel, unlike higher-drop shoes, which are great for heel strikers but tend to put more pressure on the heel and can feel overly cushioned or unstable for those with a midfoot strike.Read More: Hoka Clifton 10 Review Sizes4—12Colors20CushioningHighBest ForWalking, runningCredit: Justin Steele For Women's HealthProsBreak in fast Good for all workouts Super lightweightConsDon’t come in any basic, neutral shadesNo wide versionI hadn't tried Asics until this year, and now it's my go-to shoe brand. Not only does its shoe have a streetwear vibe (I'm loving the bright yellow color with sweats and jeans), but they’re also some of the most comfortable shoes I’ve ever worn. In the UB9-S Gel Kayano 20s, the brand uses its signature gel cushioning technology, which features gel units placed in both the heel and forefoot of the shoe to absorb shock and provide a soft landing. This cushioning adapts to your foot’s movement, offering flexibility while reducing impact on your joints. Plus, the form-fitting upper keeps your foot locked in place, making it perfect for long runs, but stylish enough for everyday wear.I wear this shoe everywhere—on runs, in the gym, and even to the office—and I get compliments virtually every single time I step out in it. The support is unmatched, the traction is solid, and it’s lightweight enough that I never feel weighed down. Plus, it breaks in fast (I wore it right out of the box), so there’s no awkward adjustment period. If you’re looking for a sneaker that can do it all while still looking cool, this is the one for you.One con to note: It comes in some funky colors, so if you’re not into something bright and fun, I’d recommend looking elsewhere. I also wish it came in a wider version for those with wider feet and bunions.Read More: Asics Gel-Kayano 20 ReviewFeatures at a GlanceSizes5-15.5Colors7CushioningHighBest ForRunning, walking, cross-trainingAdvertisement - Continue Reading BelowProsOffers support during runs, strength training, and plyometricsExtreme cushioning Stylish enough to wear outside of the gymConsWide outsole can feel bulkyWe’ve been fans of the Chargefeel line for years, with the previous edition—the Chargefeel 2—winning the best cross-training shoe for our 2025 WH Sneaker Awards. Lululemon has since made a few tweaks that make it even better. “Everyone I know who has worked out in the Chargefeel—myself included—has loved its perfect balance of stability and flexibility,” says WH executive health and fitness director Jacqueline Andriakos, NASM-CPT.Now with a lighter weight and a lower heel-to-toe drop (6 mm compared to 9.5 mm), the shoe doesn’t weigh me down and puts less stress on the ankles and feet. I’m a big fan of the wider base for lifting and squatting because it makes my feet feel locked. The forefoot-hugging band on the inside of the shoe and a tough plastic heel counter add extra security, while the springy EVA foam cushioning makes it a workhorse for walking and running.And post-workout, it’s a great leisure kick for traveling or running errands. I recently wore this sneaker while traveling, and it kept my feet happy power walking through the airport and standing in long security and customs lines. Andriakos agrees, stating, “The stylish silhouette looks good outside the gym.”The fit is true to size, and while wide-size options are not available, the toes still have adequate room to spread with each step or lift. However, the wide outsole may feel too bulky during stair climbing or quick, dynamic moves.Read More: lululemon Chargefeel 3 ReviewSizes5—12Colors6CushioningModerateBest ForRunning, walking, cross-trainingCredit: Justin Steele For Women's HealthProsSupports tired feetCan be styled with casual fitsNo-slip outsole and interior liningMakes you feel balanced after a workoutConsFeel a bit heavy and bulkyThere’s nothing worse than slipping into an uncomfortable shoe after a tough run—that’s where the Alo Recovery Sneaker comes in. Designed to support tired feet, it features a structured sole and high-rebound foam insole that offers arch support and bounces back into place with each step. It makes every step feel stable, cushioned, and balanced. The second I put this pair on after a long run, my feet are instantly relaxed. I can’t say that about most of my other sneakers.One of the biggest perks of this shoe? The traction is next-level, which is key for a recovery sneaker that’s meant to keep you comfortable and steady all day. Inside, the sock-like lining prevents your foot from sliding around. The thick ankle collar also helps stabilize the foot and provides extra support up the leg, keeping everything locked in place.Style-wise, this sneaker goes with everything—sweats, shorts, jeans, leggings, you name it. That’s why I crowned it the best overall platform sneaker. After giving it a spin for a few weeks running around Manhattan, walking my dog around Long Island, and wearing it to and from workout classes, it's done the best job at keeping my feet pain-free compared to many other platform sneakers I've worn. The 1.5-inch platform is subtle but adds just the right amount of height to elongate my legs without being so tall that I feel unstable. Oh, and it’s super cute to boot. I’m a big fan of the Natural White colorway, which looks clean and classic, and pairs effortlessly with everything from sweatpants to denim.Even if you’re not fresh off a run, it works for the office, errands, or a casual lunch. It’s hands down one of the most versatile (and most worn) shoes in my closet. My one con is that it feels a bit heavy and bulky, especially after a long day of wear.Read more: Alo Recovery Mode Sneaker ReviewSizes5—16.5Colors7CushioningHighBest ForRecovery, walkingAdvertisement - Continue Reading BelowCredit: Justin Steele For Women's HealthProsLeather overlays are great for support and durabilityMesh upper is super breathable Propels you forward during runsConsNot a ton of color optionsOne of Under Armour’s first-ever shoes, this kick is rooted in sport. But it’s gotten some essential upgrades since its launch, and it’s safe to say I’m hooked. Since 2009, it’s been updated with leather upper overlays to keep the foot supported and soft UA HOVR cushioning, made from soft EVA foam and rubber, which is engineered to store and release energy with each step, providing a bouncy, responsive feel that helps propel you forward. Out of all the shoes I’ve tried, this pair feels the most bouncy, which I know is an absolute essential for the runners and walkers out there that like that super thick underfoot feel. It also has a rocker shape to keep the foot in a forward motion for less energy exertion.The UA Apparition also has a mesh upper for supreme breathability—I’ve worn it during HIIT workouts, runs, and walks and never feel like my feet are constricted or sweaty, but I still feel supported and balanced. With a sleek, minimalistic look, the Apparition pairs well with anything from gym gear to casual streetwear. The rubber outsole provides traction and durability, allowing for smooth transitions during both dynamic workouts and everyday use.My one con? There are some fun colors available, but I wish there were more options to choose from.Sizes3.5—11Colors7CushioningHighBest ForRunning, HIIT, walkingCredit: Justin Steele For Women's HealthProsFeels supportive even though it’s flatPairs with any outfitComes in tons of fun colorsOriginally designed for indoor soccer, the Adidas Samba has become a cult-favorite sneaker that’s just as popular on the streets as it is on the field. At first glance, the Samba looks pretty flat, so I wasn’t expecting much in terms of comfort. But after logging hundreds of miles walking around the city, I was surprised by how well it supports my feet. The Samba uses a combination of synthetic leather for the upper and a rubber sole with a cushioned midsole for comfort. The cushioning is more subtle compared to high-performance running shoes, but it still provides a soft, supportive feel. Even without a ton of cushioning, I rarely experience discomfort, which is impressive for a sneaker this sleek. It runs narrow, especially for wide feet, and I recommend going a half size down, as it tends to run big—many with wider feet or bunions agree it’s not the best fit.It’s a go-to for effortlessly cool outfits—you can wear it with jeans, dresses, slacks, or shorts and always look stylish. I own this shoe in two different colorways (it comes in so many different shades), and after wearing it with practically everything in my closet, I can confidently say it adds a sporty, trendy touch to any outfit.Read more: Best Adidas ShoesSizes5—15Colors30CushioningLightBest ForErrands, walkingAdvertisement - Continue Reading BelowProsSuper stylish and trendyGreat tractionBetter cushioning than SambasConsNot as many color options as the SambasIf you’re over the Samba and want something fresh, let me introduce you to my new favorite low-profile sneaker: the Puma Speedcat. It’s been making waves with fashion girls, and after testing it out for months, I can see why. Like the Samba, it has a pretty flat sole, but I actually find it more cushioned thanks to its EVA midsole, which has a lightweight, cushioned feel, and shock-absorbing properties. This means I can walk around for longer without my feet aching. Plus, after wearing it on wet city streets, I’ve noticed it has better traction, which is a huge win. The only downside? There aren’t a ton of color options—the Speedcat comes in just six. I have the yellow and black pair, and every time I wear it, I feel like I’m straight out of Kill Bill (in the best way possible).Also like the Sambas, this shoe pairs so well with any outfit. Obviously, the brighter colors are slightly harder to style, but if you want a fun pop of color (I mean, who doesn’t love a cherry red!), it’s a great addition to your wardrobe. Or, you can opt for the simple all-black color, which I recently saw Em Rata sporting and she looked so chic and cool.Sizes5.5—11Colors6CushioningLightBest ForErrands, walkingShannen Zitz is the Associate Style & Reviews Editor at Women's Health, where she covers all-things sneakers and activewear. Previously, she was an assistant editor at Prevention. Shannen graduated from the State University of New York at Cortland with a bachelor's degree in English. If she’s not reading or writing, you can probably find her frequenting the skincare and makeup forums on Reddit or hogging the squat rack at the gym.Christian is the Style and Reviews Director at Men's Health and Women’s Health, where he oversees shopping and style content for both brands. He started his magazine career as an accessories assistant at Vogue, and has since held editorial roles at Tatler Asia and The Manual. When he’s not online shopping, you can find him on long walks with his two corgis.