The Best Shoes for Women of 2025, Tested and Reviewed
We tested over 500 pairs of shoes to find the best shoes.
As a travel writer and mom who’s constantly on the move—navigating airports, exploring new cities (and, yes, squeezing in pool time between assignments), I rely on shoes that are equal parts comfortable, stylish, and easy to pack. Shoes are a staple in my travel wardrobe because they’re so versatile: I’ve worn them to the beach, to dinner, through customs, and even on walking tours when I needed something more supportive than flip-flops but less fussy than sandals with straps.
This guide is the result of our team’s extensive hands-on testing. At Travel + Leisure, we evaluated more than 50 pairs of shoes in real-world scenarios—from sandy beaches to hardwood floors, concrete sidewalks, and slippery hotel pool decks. We looked closely at fit, comfort, support, quality, and durability, and I personally wore some of these shoes everywhere from work events and errands in Los Angeles to a resort vacation in Mexico.
If you want a boot that checks every box, our best overall pick is the Snug Front Square Accessory Women's Stretch Boots which stands out for its all-day wearability, supportive sole, and sleek, travel-ready design. Read on for more of our top-tested picks.
Best Overall
Women's Go Walk Joy Sneaker
-
These great overall shoes are instantly comfortable with no break-in period, supportive with a secure fit, and versatile in styling for everyday wear.
-
The diamond design may not appeal to minimalists or those who prefer a cleaner look.
Some shoes need time to soften up, break in, or mold to your feet—but not these. From the very first step, our tester described them as feeling pre-broken in, with no hot spots, blisters, or pinching. The upper leather is soft and pliable, and the contoured sole delivers a just-right balance of support and cushion. Even better, they stay securely on your feet without feeling tight, solving any potential slipping-off issues. The sole is approximately 1.25 inches thick, with a lightweight but sturdy feel and subtle anatomic contouring around the arch that keeps every step stable and supported.
Our tester wore these shoes everywhere—from work to the ballpark to dog walks and around the kitchen—and reported solid traction on all surfaces, including tile and carpet. The price feels well-matched to the quality and comfort, and the neutral color makes them a versatile staple. The only downside: the floral “footprint” printed on the insole felt unnecessary to the otherwise minimalist design. Still, these shoes quickly became a favorite—and inspired our plans to order a second pair in another color.
The Details: Sizes 4.5-13
Best Splurge
Fur Beige Sneakers
-
These elevated shoes are gorgeous and versatile with soft, high-quality fur, zero break-in time, and supportive soles for all-day comfort.
-
The real leather stretches significantly with wear, so sizing down is smart if you plan to wear them often.
The real leather upper has stretched quite a bit over the past three months of regular wear, and now they feel oversized to the point where my feet slip through. I love them enough that I'll actually take them to a shoemaker to be sized down, and the quality is worth investing in. If I could do it again, I’d order a half size down to accommodate the stretch. They’re definitely an investment, but the comfort, versatility, and quality offer solid value.
The Details: Sizes 5-11
Best Traction
-
These shoes are supremely comfortable, delivering sneaker-like support and traction in a secure, stylish design.
-
The top strap applies a bit of pressure, and while it's not uncomfortable per se, it may be noticeable for those highly sensitive to fit.
