By Marnie Kunz, NASM-certified trainer, USATF- RRCA-certified running coach
Sponsored by adidas

This guide will go over how to find the best women’s athletic sneakers. Whether you’re a new runner, a regular walker, or someone who stands a lot for work, your lifestyle and individual feet and gait will come into play when finding athletic shoes. What’s the best shoe for one person may be terrible for another. We’ll go over the different features to look for to help you find women’s athletic sneakers that suit your needs.

Related Post: How to Find the Best Running Shoes

How to Find the Best Women’s Athletic Sneakers

When you’re shopping for athletic sneakers, consider your lifestyle and needs so you can find the best shoes for you. Here are some features to look for when buying women’s athletic sneakers:

Purpose

First, focus on what you’ll be doing in your sneakers. Are they for work, gym workouts, running on a treadmill, or walking on city streets? Knowing what kind of exercise (if any) you’ll be doing and on what surface will help you hone in on the right shoes to support your feet. For instance, if you’ll be walking or running on concrete, you’ll need shoes with more cushioning. If you’re a trail runner, on the other hand, you’ll want to get trail running shoes, which have more traction on the bottom to help you find footing on uneven terrain.

For some activities, like gym workouts, you can look for all-purpose athletic sneakers that are comfortable for your feet and fit well. If you do heavy weightlifting, you’ll want relatively flat shoes without a thick heel to keep your balance while lifting. For some activities, like running or tennis, you’ll need specific shoes - running shoes for runners and tennis shoes for tennis players. Pickleball players also need racquet sports shoes.

Walking vs. Running Shoes

If you’re a runner or walker (or both), you’ll need shoes designed for your sport. For running, get fitted at your local running store for running shoes. This will ensure you find the best shoes for your running habits, gait, and feet. Running store shoe experts can often give you a treadmill test to assess your gait and see if you have any pronation issues. If you have overpronation where your foot rolls excessively when running, you can get stability running shoes, which have motion control features.

While runners must get running shoes, walkers can get walking or running shoes. If you’re a walker opting for running shoes, look for shoes with little to no heel drop, flexibility in the forefoot, and no heel flare.

Related Post: Walking Shoes vs Running Shoes

Size and Fit

Size and fit are crucial in finding the best women’s athletic sneakers. If you’re a runner, you may need shoes a half size larger than your usual size. Because feet naturally swell and expand while running, the larger shoes can accommodate your feet on the run.

When you try on shoes, make sure you do some of the movements you’ll perform while in the shoes. For instance, if you’re a runner, do some light jogging on a store treadmill or in place to see how the shoes feel while running. Getting athletic shoes that are comfortable and fit well for your intended activities is essential.

Cushioning

Cushioning in the midsole of athletic sneakers is essential for runners and people on their feet for long periods. Everyone has varying preferences on exact cushioning amounts, but consider the surface you will be on in addition to your preferences. If you’ll be running or standing on concrete, you’ll need more cushioning than someone who walks or runs on softer surfaces like treadmills, tracks, or trails. If you’re on your feet all day, look for shoes with good arch support.

Also, consider the store’s flooring when you give your athletic shoes a test run. If the store has very cushioned floors, it will make the shoes feel more padded.

Breathability

If you sweat a lot or live in a hot climate, you will want to get women’s athletic shoes with breathable upper fabric. This allows airflow and helps keep your feet cool. On the other hand, if you’re often running, hiking, or walking in the rain or damp cold, consider getting waterproof sneakers with Gore-Tex or similar materials. Waterproof shoes are a lifesaver for keeping your feet dry and comfortable in wet outdoor conditions.

Tips for Shoe Shopping

Get fitted for your shoes. It’s essential to get your feet measured by a professional, especially if you have wide or narrow feet. A good fit will help prevent blisters and other problems.
Try on the shoes before you buy them. Don’t just buy shoes because they look good. Make sure they feel comfortable and supportive. Walk around the store in them and make sure they bend where your foot bends.
Read reviews. Online reviews can be a great way to get feedback from others who have bought the same shoes.
Don’t skimp on price. A good pair of athletic shoes can be expensive, but they’re worth it. Your feet will thank you in the long run.
Replace your shoes every 300 to 500 miles or sooner if they show signs of wear. Use your shoes only for their intended sport, so only run in your running shoes. This will prolong the life of your shoes.

Related Post: When to Change Your Running Shoes

FAQs

How do I choose the best sneakers?
Consider the purpose of your shoes, the terrain you’ll be on, and your foot and gait type. Get fitted for your shoes and test them out to ensure they are comfortable and supportive.
How do I find the best sneakers for my feet?
Get fitted by an expert at an athletic shoe store. Make sure they measure your feet and address any foot issues such as flat feet, wide feet, etc. Look for sneakers designed for the activities you will be doing in them, and then try on different shoes to find the most comfortable ones.

Need a training plan to help you meet your running or fitness goals? Head to the Runstreet Training Center for help. Happy sweating to you!

Marnie Kunz is a NASM-certified personal trainer and USATF- and RRCA-certified running coach based in Brooklyn, NY. Marnie likes helping people get and stay active to enjoy a better quality of life. When she’s not doing fitness things, Marnie enjoys exploring with her dog, a mischievous rescue Akita.

How to Find the Best Women’s Athletic Sneakers to Suit Your Needs