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Sweat smarter, run harder, recover faster—and simply move more with these innovative picks made with women in mind.
If you’ve ever felt like your sneaker game wasn’t quite as impressive as your deadlift PR, marathon training goal, or dance cardio moves, the Women’s Health 2022 Sneaker Awards is here to change all that.
Advancements in footwear technology are allowing brands to consider factors that may have been previously glossed over or overlooked entirely, like the fact that women’s feet roll differently when striking the ground than men’s, or how women’s breasts impact foot strike and torso motion. An example: “We did a lot of research and design on breast movement during activity and how we could manage that with a shoe by adjusting the heel crash pad—it’s slightly off-center compared to a traditional men’s model—and building landing zones in the midsole to soften the impact,” says Heather Pieraldi, Lululemon senior developer of footwear, who was a part of the brand’s first-ever shoe launch, for a running shoe called the Blissfeel.
Ultimately, having footwear designed for *you* is a game changer for optimizing your workouts and helping you train smarter and harder for, well, life. Now, let us introduce you to your new sole mates.
With the help of seven certified fitness trainers of different specialties and a foot-health expert who lives life on the move, the team at WH tested more than 100 sneakers over the past several months. We also pored over customer reviews to better understand which specific aspects of the shoes recommended here are the most important to women who already own and love ’em.
So, when narrowing down this year’s winners, we zeroed in on...
Whether you’re in the market for a training sneak to ground you beneath the barbell, a cushiony base to save your shins during plyometric workouts, or a compliment-collecting pair to take you to and from it all, the seven categories ahead cover all workout styles and include anywhere from 5 to 12 specific recommendations to meet your needs. Your dream sneaker awaits.
An awesome choice for all of the workout generalists out there. The basketball-shoe style has added ankle support and works great for all workout modalities. Heads-up: “I found that they run about a half-size small, so consider sizing up from your normal size,” says Jacqueline Andriakos, WH health and fitness director.
Get this: These sneakers from Hylete were engineered for a female athlete’s center of gravity. They come with three different insoles (!) so you can customize the support and comfort you need based on the type of workout you’re doing—from weightlifting to cardio. So cool.
Reviewers rave about the insole with extra arch and impeccable heel support, ideal for a female foot and a range of workouts. “I usually prefer to sweat at home barefoot, but these Ryka shoes help protect my achy knees during HIIT while still feeling lightweight and comfortable,” says Amanda Lucci, WH deputy editor of content strategy.
Despite “run” in the name, these sneakers are victors for all types of cardio workouts. “They’re sleek and super comfortable, and you can even design your own on the Nike website,” says Jenna Matroni, CPT, an Equinox trainer and fitness model, who got her first pair on a photo shoot set. “What I love most about them is that I can run, walk my dog, strength train, teach my fitness classes, and dance in them,” she goes on. “I consider myself a professional mover, so it’s great to find a cross-functional sneaker that offers support for all of the activities I tend to pack into my day.”
“I’d never tried Hokas before, so I was excited to test out this brand-new iteration,” says WH contributing editor Caitlin Carlson. The upshot: They stand up to the hype! “I try to take two or three walk breaks each day and find myself always pulling these cushy, lightweight—seriously!— sneaks on,” she says. “I’ve also worn them for gym sessions, and when they went through airport security the other day, the TSA officer commented on their cool vibe.”
Working on balance and stability? Shop for a shoe with a minimalist design that lets you feel your soles against the floor, like these. “I love all of my Vivobarefoot shoes,” says personal trainer Danielle Gray, creator of Danielle Gray Fit, who trained as a gymnast and values a shoe that allows her to feel the ground. “They help strengthen our feet in the way they were supposed to move.” Gray especially loves the knit variations.
Deal with arch or heel pain during different types of workouts? Meet your shoe solution. This pair from Hoka is a padded option that protects on even the hardest of flooring. Podiatrist Yolanda Ragland, DPM, founder and CEO of Fix Your Feet, Inc, not only recommends these to patients with sore soles but also wears them herself. “I love them, especially when I have hours-long procedures,” she says.
Taylor Almonte, CPT, *loves* this Reebok pair for the simple, yet elevated, design. “It’s sleek, comfortable, and works great in group fitness classes. They don’t look bulky or lame like a lot of other sneakers can, which is a plus when you’re going from the studio out to run errands,” Almonte explains. They also come in a ton of colors, “so if you like them, get them in a bunch of shades!”
Cross-Training • Plyo And Power • Running • Weightlifting • Outdoor And Trail • Specialty • Active Life • Back To Top
“These shoes saved me from shin splints when I taught dance cardio group fitness classes,” says Jacqueline Andriakos, WH health and fitness director. “A podiatrist recommended I try these due to how well they absorb impact and protect the feet, and she was right.” (It’s no wonder they have thousands of five-star Amazon reviews!)
Working on quick lateral movements? This buy from TIEM is for you. They feature shock-absorbing foam to help propel and protect as you move. Plus, you never have to fear tripping on a shoelace, thanks to the adjustable Velcro strap. Multiple reviewers refer to this shoe as “the most comfortable sneaker I have bought.”
“I like to move in many planes of motion and like the option to go from run, walk, sprint, speed skaters, push-up, jump squat at any moment—and these cover all the bases,” says Elise Young, CPT, founder of Elise’s Body Shop. “Versatility in a sneaker for me is huge, as my training style covers a ton of ground. Supportive, stable, and comfortable are key.” Winner!
The name says it: You’ll defy gravity in this Puma fave with a “high-rebound” foam to help you jump, skip, hop, run, you name it. Oh, and they look pretty sleek off the turf too.
The sneaker weighs in at only 300 grams but feels heavy enough to anchor and stabilize you as you land explosive plyometric movements.
Designed for high-intensity and agility training, the FuelCell Shift TR helps you launch yourself in all directions with comfort and serious spring—without breaking the bank. Oh, and the pop of color will have everyone asking, “Where’d you get those?”
“The Adrenalines took me a few wears to break in, but after that, they quickly became another one of my savior sneakers for shin splints,” Andriakos says. If you’re in need of a shoe to jump rope, box, dance, or chase kids around in, it’s safe to bet on these.
Here’s a pair with enough cushion to protect your ankles, feet, and shins from explosive movement. Bloch is a long-standing dancewear and dance shoes company, so you can trust that this shoe was made with movement and comfort in mind.
Laces are so last season (kidding, kinda!). Tighten the Velcro straps around your foot and you’ll feel supported and ready for takeoff for any powerful plyo exercises. Andriakos says, “The adjustable straps allow me to focus entirely on my workout and form, as opposed to fixing my shoes.”
Cross-Training • Plyo And Power • Running • Weightlifting • Outdoor And Trail • Specialty • Active Life • Back To Top
Don’t let “walking shoes” in the name fool you. WH senior commerce editor Neha Tandon is “literally obsessed” with these chunky sneakers—for running and beyond. “I have super-weak ankles that tire out after just a few minutes of running, but with these, I can easily go for miles,” Tandon says. “They’re plain white, so I wear them outside of workouts all the time too.”
In the Blissfeel, Andriakos felt speedy and powerful in her takeoff with each stride. She found them most useful for treadmill intervals in a HIIT workout, as they were comfortable enough to move seamlessly between the machine and free weights on the floor.
Multiple WH editors consider the Gel-Nimbus models the most universal running shoe on the market. The cult-favorite pair from ASICS is beloved by devotees for how they help relieve foot pain, plantar fasciitis, ankle tendinitis, and more issues that come along with logging miles. First time investing in a running sneaker and not sure where to start? This pick is a smart bet.
Not a fan of clunky, big running shoes? This new pair from Zelen keeps you one with the road beneath you, given its minimalist design and wide toe box that helps you avoid toe scrunching. They’re also made sustainably.
The latest iteration of the Ultraboost (a classic!) was redesigned and engineered by an all-female product team based on 1.2 million scans of women’s feet—so you know you’re getting a running shoe with *you* in mind. The Ultraboost is also known for its lightweight, sock-like, springy design that feels like you’re wearing pillows—all while propelling you forward.
New York City-based running coach Elizabeth Corkum (also known as “Coach Corky”) has been doing more and more runs in the Mizuno Rebellion—describing the pair as “the closest thing that Mizuno has out right now to a Super Shoe.” She adds, “I did an 18-miler in them [recently] and they felt great.”
These kicks feature nitrogen-infused foam that helps you get more energy bang for your buck. The materials adapt to your stride, allowing you to run fast (and recover faster!).
These lookers from On feature a bouncy, cushioned sole and a stylish color-blocked design. “I’m not a big runner, but when I do, these are my favorite!” says podiatrist Yolanda Ragland, DPM, founder and CEO of Fix Your Feet, Inc. “They are lightweight and well cushioned.”
Grass and dirt are no match for these soles. The newest iteration of the Floatride Energy are a durable yet flexible design that’ll keep you on your feet, and grounded in each stride. “I liked how flexible and lightweight they were, thanks to the split sole and knitted material,” says Lindsay Gellar, WH senior editor. “They’re great for running on softer surfaces, if you live by a dirt trail or play field sports.”
“Boy, that’s a fast shoe,” Corkum says. For anyone thinking about trying a new shoe for serious speed, she highly suggests easing into them, as your foot impact on the ground and muscle recruitment will feel different and take some getting used to. “Take them for a short run once per week, for example, and see how the body feels.”
How cool is this? The new sneaker from UA connects via bluetooth to the UA Map My Run app, so you can track and analyze your running metrics. “For someone who has a total love-hate relationship with running, this shoe felt incredibly sturdy on my foot and allowed me to easily up my speed for shorter, 5-K distances,” says Andriakos. “I get genuinely excited to take them for a spin.”
Suffer from heel pain, or more specifically, plantar fasciitis? The Novablast features thick, cushioned heel support for a soft landing with every foot strike.
Cross-Training • Plyo And Power • Running • Weightlifting • Outdoor And Trail • Specialty • Active Life • Back To Top
Every last one of Altra women’s training shoes has been molded around the unique shape of the female foot. Fans of the Solstice XT 2 love the minimalist design and roomy toe box during lifting workouts. They are also considered a zero-drop shoe, meaning that there is zero angle between the toes and heels, putting your foot in a very level position. Shoes that elevate the heel above your toes can limit stability as well as ankle mobility for many lifters; a zero-drop option like this can help boost performance and reduce injury risk.
The base of these colorful kicks is super flat, which helps you really drive into the floor while lifting. “I recently switched from a general athletic sneaker to these trainers for my CrossFit workouts,” says Christine Giordano, WH deputy art director. “They have helped me reach several PRs and help my balance when lifting.”
When we posted an Instagram poll asking for people’s all-time favorite shoes for weightlifting, the Metcons won by a landslide. They are a no-fuss tough and stable shoe that will help you achieve all those PRs.
Personal trainer and superstar lifter Toni Livers owns about 50 pairs of sneakers (!). Her favorite of them all? “My favorite lifting shoe is the NoBull trainer—I prefer high tops for more ankle stability.”
Enter: the newest model of the Reebok Nano, which boasts thousands of positive reviews online. “The first word I thought of when I lifted in the Nano X2 was durable,” says Andriakos. “These shoes felt stiff—in a great way!—around my feet, giving me excellent stability and allowing me to lift heavier than usual.”
Here’s a pair that’s made to tackle tough workouts. The stiff heel adds stability as you lift, and a soft forefoot provides flexibility during high-intensity cardio too. And because the gym is no place for distractions, the wide fit and a dual-density midsole keep the feet comfortable so you can stay focused.
“These shoes have been my go-to for weightlifting for years,” says Andriakos, who has them in five fun colors. “I have a very narrow foot, and the knit material feels as if it morphs to my anatomy—and the sole is sturdy and flat.”
Craving a barefoot feel but not down to go shoeless? We’ve got you. This pick is überlight and roomy, and the flat sole keeps you nice and close to the floor.
The time a raised heel actually comes in clutch? When you’re squatting. The Legacy Lifters are made with an elevated heel to keep you in a stable squat and allow for full range of motion.
One reviewer summed it up like this: “My ankles are not very flexible so these were a great purchase for me. The raised heel provides nice stability and support for lifting and overhead squats so that I can focus on form without being limited by my ankle inflexibility.” (Psst, these tend to sell out!)
An oldie but goodie! Reminder: Shoes with lots of cushioning and drop can make some lifters unstable and unaware of foot positioning. It also makes it tougher to power through the heels into a heavy lift. That’s why the classic Chuck Taylor All Star is *chef’s kiss* for serious lifters, thanks to the flat, no-frill sole and high-top ankle support.
But because these were not designed specifically for lifting, they may be better if you are experienced in the weight room, as they may not provide you with as much support as a standard weightlifting shoe.
Cross-Training • Plyo And Power • Running • Weightlifting • Outdoor And Trail • Specialty • Active Life • Back To Top
These kicks have strong reviews noting how comfortable they are, how well they protect against sharp rocks and gravel—and that they’re environmentally conscious. Allbirds tested them with over 100 runners of all ages, abilities, and body types, so you can feel confident they’ll work for you too.
Get ready for loooong hikes in these boots, which have steel shanks to support your arches, plus light footbeds.
WH managing editor Laura McLaughlin says these trail running shoes have great treads and just enough waterproofing to get through puddles. “I like that I can tuck in the laces and that it’s a pull, not a tie,” she adds.
Andriakos says these boots are like a puffer jacket for your feet. Perfect for staying cozy around a campfire, walking your neighborhood on an icy morning, or backpacking in chilly morning air.
These come recommended by Yolanda Ragland, DPM, founder and CEO of Fix Your Feet, Inc. Although they’re technically trail shoes, Ragland says she often tells pregnant patients to choose them for all-day comfort on any surface. (And BTW, they all tell her the shoes saved their feet and lower back.) If you’re hitting the trails in them, you’ll love that they repel water and are easy to clean.
Personal trainer Toni Livers says these shoes are great for trail running, easy hikes, and outdoor walks. They’re made with soft cushioning and breathable mesh to keep you comfortable while you’re crushing your workout.
“I took these for a spin on a trail in California with lots of loose gravel and dirt, but I didn’t feel like I was slipping at all,” says WH writer Erin Warwood, adding that they offered plenty of room around her toes. In fact, the design of these shoes is meant to give your feet more space to sit naturally. (Plus, Altra designs all of its shoes with the specifications of the female foot in mind.)
These sneakers will keep your feet cool and dry with breathable, moisture-managing mesh. Plus, no socks required.
Cross-Training • Plyo And Power • Running • Weightlifting • Outdoor And Trail • Specialty • Active Life • Back To Top
Forehand, backhand—whatever shot you’re taking, know you’ll be supported. The middle “belt” keeps your foot in place when you’re making quick lateral movements, and the grippy sole provides traction to keep you on your feet when chasing any shot.
This cycling shoe, with an average 4.6 stars from almost 400 reviews on the Rapha site, gets top marks from reviewers for both its all-day comfort and race-ready stiffness. Also, they’re compatible with Peloton if you swap out the cleats.
If stationary bike riding is your primary jam, consider this pick, which looks like a sneaker but still clips in. In fact, you can walk around in them as you would a sneak—perfect if you’re commuting on foot to the gym or studio.
If you have an obstacle course race on your 2022 bucket list, this shoe is for you. The grippy outsole provides traction when you go off-road, a drainage system keeps feet less wet should you encounter a water-based obstacle, and the foam layer is said to provide that springy feeling.
Recovery shoes are #trending—and for good reason. This pick has thousands of good reviews, special foam designed to reduce stress on knees, ankles, and other joints, and you can try them for 30 days.
Cross-Training • Plyo And Power • Running • Weightlifting • Outdoor And Trail • Specialty • Active Life • Back To Top
These are one of Andriakos’s everyday favorites, thanks to inserts so comfy they feel like expensive orthotics.
“These shoes feel broken in from day one,” Andriakos says. And they are machine washable. Score!
The Pace from Dansko receives tons of reviews from nurses and doctors who say the shoes have saved them during long shifts. Reviewers also mention that they’re a great fit for women with high arches.
Snag this colorful pair before they sell out...again! Sneaker lovers have been fighting to get their hands on the pair from the NB x Staud brand collaboration. When you strut your stuff in these supersoft shoes (no blisters, baby!), you can’t help but smile.
Ah, that fresh-white-sneaker feel! From On, The Roger is a tennis-inspired sneaker co-created with Roger Federer. The wider-fit shoe has a weighty feel and features minimal stitching to maintain a clean, crisp look.
These affordable slip-ons made of knit mesh will fit right into your on-the-go lifestyle.
This shoe was also featured in the 2022 WH Fitness Awards, so clearly we can’t get enough. The Saysh One sneakers are from Allyson Felix (the most decorated U.S. track-and-field athlete in Olympic history). They’re perfect for your daily walk and other low-impact cardio exercise.
“Perfectly named ‘Excape,’ these are my go-to vacay sneaks,” says Yolanda Ragland, DPM, founder and CEO of Fix Your Feet, Inc. “Super comfy for travel and long treks. I can even pump lightweight iron in the gym when I’m away, and they look so stylish.”
“I love these kicks for their stretchy, roomy toe box,” Ragland says. “The design is inspired by running shoes, so if you choose to use it for a jog, make it short. Excellent for travel and long days on your feet!”
In the market for the perfect white sneaker? Look no further. The Reebok classic leather looks retro, clean, and polished and feels broken-in and molded to your soles from the get-go.
Ollie Gray’s sneakers are designed with pregnant and/or postpartum women in mind (but you definitely don’t have to be expecting or a new mom to love them!). The so-stretchy knit material allows your feet to swell and change size. They also have an easy pull-on heel and adjustable toggle so you can easily get them on and off, even with a toddler or gym bag in arms.
Cross-Training • Plyo And Power • Running • Weightlifting • Outdoor And Trail • Specialty • Active Life • Back To Top