10 Best Womens Athletic Shoes 2025 in the United States

The New Balance Women's 608 V5 Casual Comfort Cross Trainer in White/Light Blue, size 9 Wide, offers a well-rounded mix of comfort and support that is ideal for various athletic activities. Designed with a PU Foam insert, it provides long-lasting comfort and support, making it suitable for extended wear. The lightweight injection-molded EVA foam midsole ensures that the shoe remains light, enhancing comfort without compromising on cushioning.

The Phantom Liner interior, with its minimal seaming, helps reduce irritation, which is particularly valuable for those with sensitive feet or who spend many hours on their feet. The internal midsole shank adds structure and support to the midfoot, which is beneficial for maintaining stability during movement. Additionally, the NB Soft plus Supportive Comfort Insert offers all-day comfort and support, potentially making these shoes a great choice for both athletic and casual wear.

The 100% leather design may limit breathability compared to mesh alternatives, potentially making these shoes less ideal for extremely hot weather or high-intensity workouts. The rubber sole provides good traction. Their combination of cushioning, arch support, and design makes them a strong contender for anyone seeking a reliable and comfortable cross trainer.

The New Balance Women's 574 Core Sneaker in Nimbus Cloud/White offers several notable features and some potential drawbacks. This sneaker is available in size 7 and offers extended width sizes, which can be a great advantage for those needing a more customized fit. The use of 100% recycled polyester in the mesh vamp, collar, and tongue enhances breathability, making it a good choice for activities requiring ventilation.

The midsole combines soft foam with a sturdy polyurethane rim, providing decent cushioning and arch support for all-day comfort. Another eco-friendly aspect is the midsole foam containing 3% bio-based content from renewable sources, contributing to reducing the carbon footprint. The rubber outsole, which includes 5% recycled rubber, offers reliable traction for various surfaces, although it may not be the most durable option for highly intensive use.

In terms of weight, the shoe is moderately light, making it suitable for casual athletic activities but possibly less ideal for more intense sports that require extra lightweight footwear. Additionally, machine washability adds convenience in maintenance. However, the mixed materials of 50% synthetic and 50% mesh might not offer the same longevity as all-leather or all-synthetic options. The sneaker provides comfort and eco-conscious elements, but those seeking maximum durability or specialized support might want to explore other options.

The Under Armour Women's Charged Assert 10 is a lightweight running shoe designed with a breathable mesh upper that helps keep your feet cool during workouts. It offers good arch support and durability thanks to synthetic overlays, which also add structure to the shoe. The cushioning stands out with its Charged Cushioning midsole, made from compression-molded foam, providing responsive comfort and shock absorption — great for runners who need a balance of softness and energy return. The EVA sockliner adds a soft feel right from the first step.

Traction is solid with a rubber outsole focused on high-impact areas, making it reliable on various surfaces without adding extra weight. Weighing just 8.9 ounces, these shoes feel light on your feet, which is helpful for both running and everyday activity. The 10mm offset helps with stability and encourages a natural running stride. However, one notable drawback is the chemical warning related to chromium compounds, which some might want to consider if chemical exposure is a concern.

While the shoes suit neutral runners looking for flexibility and cushioning, those needing strong motion control or specialized arch support might want to explore other options. These shoes provide a nice mix of comfort, breathability, and durability for general athletic use, especially for runners who prioritize a lightweight and responsive shoe.