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A few years ago, when my doctor told me my back issues meant I needed to stop competitive running and segue into low-impact cardio, I rolled my eyes. But I quickly learned that a long, brisk walk could rev up my heart rate and turn me into a puddle of sweat, just like my favorite runs. It's a great alternative, especially with boatloads of stellar walking shoes on the market that are both supportive and easy on the eyes. And as if it couldn't get any better, we're seeing December walking shoe deals on tons of popular styles such as the Hoka Bondi 8 (a rare deal!) and the New Balance Fresh Foam X 1080.
While walking has had a glow-up lately as a buzzy form of exercise, Women's Health editors have been testing walking shoes for years. We've tried all the latest and greatest models on under-desk treadmills, city streets, trails, and more, making us experts in the walking shoe space. But these sneakers don't last forever, and it's important to swap yours out for a new pair every 300 to 500 miles to lower your risk of injury. If you're in need of a quality sneaker upgrade for cheap, I recommend these December walking shoe deals, all of which have been tested by Women's Health editors, and approved by our trusted podiatrists.
With all the sales happening, it can be tough to know which sneakers are worth your time -- even with a discounted price. We're here to help: We found marked-down prices on sneakers we've tested and love, and broke them down for you below. Snap these winners up while they're still on sale.
Why These Are Our Picks
At baseline, a good walking shoe should check off a few boxes. "The most important aspect of a walking shoe is something that has support across the middle of the arch," says Melissa Lockwood, DPM, a podiatrist at Heartland Foot and Ankle Associates. This helps distribute pressure across your feet and promotes good alignment, lowering the odds of injury, she says -- and all of the sneakers on this list check that box.
You can tell if a shoe has that support by doing a "twist test," where you hold the shoe on the ends and try to twist it like you're wringing out a washcloth. "The stiffer the shoe, the better," Lockwood says. BTW, all of the shoes we chose passed the twist test.
Something else to look for, according to Richard H. Graves, DPM, a board-certified podiatrist at Sol Food and Ankle Centers: Good heel support to absorb shock as you're cruising along.
If you're looking for a highly cushioned shoe, consider the Hoka Bondi 8 sneaker. This is a rare discount and offers lightweight foam and an extended heel to cradle and support your foot, making it great for walking long distances. Walkers with narrow feet will appreciate the snug but cozy fit of the New Balance Fresh Foam X 1080. "These are absolutely perfect if you deal with any foot pain issues and/or struggle with sneakers being a bit too wide," says WH Executive Health and Fitness Director, Jacqueline Andriakos. "I have walked over 100 miles in these at this point and have never even had a sore or tender spot from rubbing or chafing." We also love the brand's proprietary midsole, which delivers a slightly bouncy feel.
If you prefer a shoe that's even more affordable, I like the Skechers Women's Go Walk Joy Sneaker with its easy on-and-off design, and breathable mesh to lower the risk of sweaty feet. I'm also a big fan of supportive slip-ons that won't feel like they'll fly off mid-walk, like the the Ryka Women's Jumpstart. This shoe has a stretchy upper and criss-cross stretch laces for a snug fit.
Walkers with narrow feet will appreciate the Asics Gel-Nimbus 26, which has a narrow toe box, according to WH fitness commerce editor Nicolette Accardi. And, if you just can't be bothered with laces, the Allbirds Women's Tree Dasher Relay is a great option, with its sleek design that's easy to throw on during your early morning errands.
Prone to holes in your shoe? The Saucony Kinvara 14 is durable enough to withstand deterioration over time. These prices can change quickly so, if you find a pair of walking shoes that you like on mark-down, you'll want to act fast.