16 Best Shoes for Older Women

Happy feet, happy day! I’m not sure that’s a common expression, but I know that my days are always better when I have good footwear that will get me through the day without any foot or leg pain. Nothing can put a damper on your excellent day more than having sore feet.

Here is our top list of the best shoes for older women:

1. The Breeze Sol –  seamlessly combines style and comfort with a sleek profile, stretch-crafted uppers, a washable foam footbed, and a slip-resistant sole, making it ideal for versatile and comfortable work-to-weekend wear.
2. Dr. Scholl’s Madison – Amp up your casual look and style with this comfortable slip-on.
3. Twist Slip-On Sneakers – Easy Spirit’s Traveltime shoes offer superior walking and light activity comfort with easy slip-on style, shock-absorbing removable sock liners, and reliable arch support. 
4. AP1 Walking Shoes – This lightweight walking shoe, equipped with tie-up laces, offers remarkable comfort through its flexible construction, shock-foam sock, arch support, and durable outsole.
5. NIKITA Sneaker from Mephisto – Put a spring in your step with this classic zippered sneaker.
6. Bend Low from Birkenstock – Birkenstock now offers casual shoes.
7. CIRCUIT TIE DENIM BLUE KNIT – This shoe combines sporty simplicity with soft knitted denim uppers, a cushioned EVA footbed, and a machine-washable finish.
8. Hoka One Bondi 7 from Zappos – Ultra-soft memory foam designed to accommodate a narrower heel.

Keep reading to discover our complete list of casual, physical activity, and dressy shoes.

Comfortable shoes are a must, even more so as we get older. What are the best shoes for older women? Do we have to compromise on style and exclusively wear granny shoes as we age over 50? I don’t think so! I love having comfortable stable footwear, but I also like that they look stylish and reflect my personality and lifestyle.

We should all own at least a pair of shoes for the different occasions and activities that we have in our lives. Obviously, you don’t wear your runners to an evening out or your slinky sandals to the gym.

The basic categories of shoes for older women:

• Casual, everyday, walking shoes
• Workout, physical activity shoes
• Evening, dressy shoes

I will concentrate on shoes and not sandals nor boots in this article. Let’s take a look at some of the best shoes for mature women out there.

The basic criteria to make it on the list are:

• Good quality
• Comfort
• Stability: soles, arch support, etc.
• Size ranges: wide, narrow, etc.
• Price
• Great reviews!

Shoes for Older Women – What to Look For

Comfort is key! Without compromising on style, of course. We all lead different lifestyles, but one thing that we all have in common is that we want comfy shoes that won’t blister or hurt our feet.

I tend to buy better quality shoes now, and I expect them to last longer than the fast-fashion footwear I used to wear 20 years ago.

Where to Find Shoes for Older Women

There are specialty stores that specialize in shoes for older women, but you definitely don’t have to limit yourself to those.

I find that asking women around me what type of shoes they wear and would recommend always opens new doors for me. Of course, our feet are all different, but it’s always good to have more options to explore.

Here are some of the best places to buy women’s shoes, offering a wide range of styles, sizes, and price points:

• Zappos – Known for its vast selection of brands and styles, Zappos offers free shipping and returns, making it easy to find the perfect fit.
• Nordstrom – Nordstrom provides a curated selection of high-quality shoes, including designer and comfort brands. Their excellent customer service and generous return policy make shopping a breeze.
• DSW (Designer Shoe Warehouse) – DSW offers a wide variety of shoes at discounted prices. Their extensive collection includes both well-known brands and unique finds.
• Clarks – Clarks is renowned for its comfortable and stylish shoes. Their website offers a range of options specifically designed for comfort and support.
• Amazon – Amazon’s extensive selection and customer reviews make it a great place to find almost any type of shoe. Plus, Prime members can enjoy fast, free shipping.
• Foot Locker – Foot Locker is a go-to for athletic and casual footwear. They offer a variety of brands and styles suitable for physical activities.
• Macy’s – Macy’s offers a wide range of shoes, from affordable to designer options. Their frequent sales and promotions make it a great place to find deals.
• Shoe Carnival – Shoe Carnival provides a fun shopping experience with a wide selection of affordable shoes for every occasion.
• Vionic Shoes – Vionic specializes in shoes that provide excellent arch support and comfort, making them ideal for older women looking for stylish and supportive options.

How to Choose the Right Shoes 

As we age, our feet undergo various changes, making it essential to choose shoes that offer the right fit, support, and material. 

Fit

• Proper Sizing: Ensure that your shoes fit well. Shoes that are too tight can cause blisters and discomfort, while shoes that are too loose can lead to instability and falls. Measure your feet regularly, as foot size can change with age.
• Width Options: Many older women experience changes in foot width. Look for shoes that offer a variety of width options, including narrow, regular, wide, and extra-wide. This ensures a comfortable fit without squeezing or pinching.
• Roomy Toe Box: A spacious toe box allows your toes to move freely, preventing issues like bunions and hammertoes. Avoid pointed or overly narrow shoes that can cramp your toes.

Support

• Arch Support: Proper arch support is crucial for maintaining foot health and preventing pain. Look for shoes with built-in arch support or consider adding orthotic inserts tailored to your arch type.
• Cushioning: Good cushioning helps absorb shock and reduces pressure on the feet. Shoes with cushioned insoles and midsoles provide comfort, especially for activities that involve a lot of walking or standing.
• Heel Support: A stable heel counter (the part of the shoe that wraps around the back of the heel) provides stability and prevents your foot from slipping inside the shoe. Avoid shoes with overly high heels, as they can cause balance issues and discomfort.

Material

• Breathable Fabrics: Look for shoes made from breathable materials like leather, mesh, or knit fabric. These materials help keep your feet cool and dry, reducing the risk of fungal infections and odors.
• Flexible Soles: Shoes with flexible soles allow for natural foot movement and prevent stiffness. Avoid shoes with rigid, non-flexing soles that can cause discomfort and blisters.
• Lightweight Construction: Lightweight shoes are easier to walk in and reduce fatigue. Heavier shoes can strain your feet and legs, making walking more tiring.

Additional Tips

• Try Shoes in the Afternoon: Feet tend to swell throughout the day, so it’s best to try on new shoes in the afternoon or evening to ensure they will fit comfortably all day.
• Wear Appropriate Socks: When trying on shoes, wear the type of socks you plan to wear with them. This helps ensure a proper fit.
• Walk Around: Always walk around in new shoes to test their comfort and support. Pay attention to any areas that feel tight or uncomfortable.
• Check Return Policies: If you’re shopping online, make sure to read the return policies. This way, you can easily exchange or return shoes if they don’t fit as expected.

Best Shoes for Mature Women

Casual Shoes for Older Women

Looking at the offerings in the ‘casual’ category, I found these great options:

BREEZE SOL BLACK

Clark’s is a go-to for comfortable shoes. The Breeze Sol slip-on shoe effortlessly blends style with comfort. The synthetic black upper offers a sleek profile with a hint of stretch for a perfect fit. The 2mm foam footbed provides shock absorption, and the super-grippy TR sole ensures stability. The removable and machine-washable footbed adds convenience to this versatile and easy-to-wear shoe.

Dr. Scholl’s Madison

Effortlessly achieve a stylish look with the Madison from trusted Dr Scholl, featuring a breathable textile upper, easy slip-on wear with dual gore panels, comfortable textile lining, and built-in Energy Wave™ cushioning for immediate and all-day comfort.

Twist Slip-On Sneakers

Ideal for walking and light activity, these comfort shoes by Easy Spirit are effortlessly slipped on and off, featuring removable sock liners that absorb shock, offer arch support, and ensure superior all-day comfort, making the Traveltime one of the brand’s favorite choices for women.

Try the ultimate comfort in this lightweight walking shoe with tie-up laces ensuring a perfect fit. The remarkably flexible construction is complemented by a shock-foam sock, arch support, and durable outsole. It’s a go-to choice for those seeking both functionality and unparalleled comfort at every step.

NIKITA Sneaker from Mephisto

These brown leather Nubuck sneakers from Mephisto have both lace and easy-access zippers. This sneaker is a timeless classic and is designed with a detachable insole (with integrated SOFT-AIR technology) and the outsole is equipped with a shock-absorber to minimize impact while walking.

Bend Low from Birkenstock

Gone are the days when Birkenstock only made sandals. The company now designs shoes and boots as well, all the while respecting their reputation for comfort. The BIRKENSTOCK Bend sneaker has a sleek, simple design and can be worn with practically anything. It has a midsole made of PU and cork to ensure optimum shock absorption. It also features a breathable microfiber lining for maximum comfort.

Physical Activity Shoes for Older Women

Many of us are still very active even past 70. If you’re looking for great physical activity shoes, here are a few options to consider.

CIRCUIT TIE DENIM BLUE KNIT

Simplicity meets sporty style in the Circuit Tie shoe from Clarks, featuring soft knitted uppers in a stunning denim blue, a cushioned EVA footbed for easy and comfortable steps, and a sleek modern profile.

Hoka One Bondi 7 from Zappos

The most cushioned shoe in the HOKA lineup, the game-changing Bondi 7  delivers a smooth, balanced experience. It’s engineered with the same EVA midsole, breathable mesh upper, and signature Meta-Rocker technology as its predecessor. Made from ultra-soft memory foam, this shoe is designed to accommodate a narrower heel.

YLONA Sneaker from Mephisto

This ultra-lightweight sneaker provides an excellent fit and comfort. It has a detachable insole that is made with integrated Soft-Air technology.  Lace and zipper combo make it easy to slip on and off.

23WALK 2.0 SNEAKER from VIONIC

The 23WALK 2.0 Sneaker from Vionic combines stylish design with exceptional comfort. Featuring advanced arch support and cushioned insoles, these sneakers are perfect for all-day wear. The breathable mesh upper ensures your feet stay cool, while the durable rubber outsole provides excellent traction. Ideal for exercising, these sneakers offer both style and functionality.

Nike Free Metcon 6

The Nike Free Metcon 6 is a versatile training shoe designed for all types of workouts. Combining the flexibility of Nike Free technology with the stability of Metcon, it offers superior comfort and support. The breathable mesh upper keeps your feet cool, while the durable rubber sole provides excellent traction and stability. Perfect for dynamic movements, these shoes help you perform at your best during any workout.

Dressy Shoes for Older Women

Here are some options for going out in style:

NATALYN WISH PLUM LEATHER from Clarks

The NATALYN WISH Plum Leather shoes from Clark’s are a chic and comfortable choice for any wardrobe. Made from rich plum leather, they feature a sleek, minimalist design with a small box heel for a touch of elegance. The cushioned insole and flexible rubber outsole ensure all-day comfort, making them ideal for both professional and dressy settings.

Hidden Wedge Ballet Flat in Off White

The Piper Off White Genuine Leather Hidden Wedge Ballet Flat combines everyday style with superior comfort. Featuring a concealed inside wedge heel, diamond flex outsole, ortholite foam insole, stitch ‘n turn technology, and more, it ensures a comfortable and fashionable experience with each step.

Anne Klein Fabulist from Zappos

Night on the town? Dancing with your partner? The Anne Klein Fabulist pump is an elegant classic shoe that never goes out of style. It’s made of leather with a breathable man-made lining. The dual foam layers provide cushioning and shock absorption for maximum comfort.

Estee from Trotters

A classic flat with a modern twist from Trotters, the Estee’s pointed toe detail brings new life to the popular ballet flat. The signature Trotters footbed provides optimal support. Check out the variety of fun prints and colors. It comes in narrow, medium, wide, and double wide.

Anne Klein Sport Taite Wedge Heel from Zappos

Wedge heels are a great way to get some height without compromising stability. The Anne Klein wedge is made of synthetic material with a breathable textile lining. The padded and flexible footbed is made of lightweight foam layers that provide cushioning and shock absorption. The rubber sole makes it a durable and stable shoe.

Let’s Have a Conversation:

Which is your favorite shoe? What type of shoes do you wear the most? Share your favorite shoes with the community. Post your comments below.