The Real Test of a Running Shoe
When the air turns crisp and the roads get slick with rain or frost, runners know one truth: not every shoe can handle fall and winter miles. Whether you’re training through misty mornings, walking long hours, or simply want comfort that lasts all day, choosing the right running shoe is everything.
But in 2025, the market is crowded — every brand claims to offer “cloud-like comfort” or “revolutionary stability.” So, instead of relying on marketing fluff, we turned to something more reliable: real customer reviews from verified Amazon buyers who’ve worn these shoes in real life. Click here for a comprehensive guide to choosing the right shoe for the right activity.
Below are five of the most-loved women’s running shoes of 2025, analyzed through honest feedback — celebrating their strengths, noting their quirks, and explaining which foot types they’re best for.
Let’s dive in.
1. Brooks Women’s Adrenaline GTS 24 — Support Meets Long-Term Comfort
If there’s a word that sums up the Adrenaline GTS 24, it’s trustworthy. Brooks has long been known for stability and comfort, and the 2025 model stays true to that legacy — with a few thoughtful tweaks.
Best for: Women needing reliable arch support, stability, and comfort for long walks or recovery runs.
What reviewers love:
Many users praised how supportive and adaptable these shoes feel after a short break-in period. One buyer mentioned how the shoes felt stiff at first but “conformed beautifully” to her feet within 24 hours — a sign of quality materials that mold to your shape.
Another review came from someone recovering from a broken ankle, who said the Adrenaline GTS 24 “greatly reduced pain levels” and offered “true wide sizing,” unlike competing brands. Others echoed that these shoes deliver exceptional stability without bulk, making them perfect for long shifts, daily walks, or treadmill sessions.
The pros at a glance:
- Cushioned and stable for problem feet or plantar fasciitis
- Available in multiple widths (narrow to wide)
- Excellent arch and heel support
- Durable construction that holds up for months
Minor drawbacks:
A few noted that the shoe can run slightly small and may feel stiff out of the box. Those with narrow or wide feet should double-check sizing, and TSA travelers found that the metal in the midsole sometimes sets off scanners (a small but funny detail from one traveler’s review).
Verdict:
The Brooks Adrenaline GTS 24 is an all-around powerhouse — perfect for fall and winter walks or runs when you need stability on unpredictable terrain. While not the flashiest shoe, it’s one of the most dependable for daily comfort and joint support.
2. ASICS Women’s Gel-Venture 10 — Trail-Ready for Every Season
ASICS continues to dominate the comfort and performance game, and the Gel-Venture 10 is their most well-balanced running shoe yet. It’s designed for both road and light trail use, making it ideal for women who run or walk year-round.
Best for: Women who alternate between outdoor runs, treadmill sessions, and light trails.
What reviewers love:
Users raved about how these shoes deliver “outstanding comfort and support — perfect for running.” Many noted that the gel cushioning absorbs impact beautifully, especially for those with sensitive knees or ankles.
One customer described wearing them during daily “walkie talkies” — using her morning walks as time for reflection and creativity. She said the Gel-Venture 10s became “part of my daily rhythm and self-care,” offering comfort with no break-in period.
Women with bunions and high arches also found these shoes surprisingly forgiving. The fit is snug but flexible, with a mesh upper that keeps feet cool during long wear.
The pros at a glance:
- Excellent cushioning and arch support
- Breathable yet durable upper for fall/winter workouts
- Great traction for wet sidewalks or mild trails
- Stylish design that transitions well to casual wear
Minor drawbacks:
Some buyers questioned the authenticity or quality of certain colorways, saying a few pairs felt “stiff or plasticky.” Most, however, reported excellent comfort and true-to-size fit after confirming official ASICS retailers.
Verdict:
If you’re a hybrid athlete or walker who needs one shoe to do it all — from treadmill to trail — the ASICS Gel-Venture 10 is a top contender for 2025. Affordable, versatile, and stylish enough for everyday wear.
3. Under Armour Women’s Charged Assert 10 — Affordable Comfort That Lasts
Under Armour’s Charged Assert 10 might not have the cult following of Brooks or ASICS, but reviewers say it deserves way more credit. This shoe blends budget-friendly pricing with the comfort and support you’d expect from a higher-end brand.
Best for: Everyday walkers, gym-goers, and women looking for comfort on a budget.
What reviewers love:
Many praised the shoes’ lightweight build and sleek style. One buyer said her pair “stood the test of time” and were still going strong after months of long walks. Others appreciated that they clean easily and hold their shape after multiple wears.
Customers with plantar fasciitis mentioned swapping the insoles for custom inserts, finding that the shoe’s base structure still provided excellent support and space for orthotics.
The pros at a glance:
- Lightweight and stylish
- Excellent value for the price
- Works well with orthopedic insoles
- Easy to clean and maintain
Minor drawbacks:
The most common feedback? Sizing runs small. Nearly every reviewer advised ordering half a size up. Some also mentioned that the shoe feels slightly stiff compared to memory foam competitors like Skechers.
Verdict:
The Charged Assert 10 is an incredible value option for women who want dependable comfort without breaking the bank. Perfect for mild-weather runs or indoor training sessions when you still want structure and style.
4. New Balance Women’s 520 V8 — Lightweight Everyday Performance
The New Balance 520 V8 is often described as “the everyday workhorse” — simple, comfortable, and surprisingly durable for its price point. It’s a great option for women balancing daily wear, walking, and light workouts.
Best for: Women with wide feet or those seeking breathable all-day comfort.
What reviewers love:
Comfort and versatility dominated the feedback. One reviewer loved that the 520 V8s were “washable and came out clean by hand,” while another said they were “perfect for long shifts on concrete floors.”
Many reviewers with wide or sensitive feet found these shoes exceptionally comfortable right out of the box. One buyer with sciatica said the arch support on her right foot wasn’t perfect but still praised the shoe’s overall feel and value.
The pros at a glance:
- Soft cushioning ideal for walking or standing all day
- Available in wide widths
- Lightweight, flexible design
- Washable and easy to maintain
Minor drawbacks:
A few users noted that the mesh upper may wear down with heavy use, and one said the latest version felt “cheaper” than older models. Still, for most, the comfort and fit outweighed these issues — especially at its mid-range price.
Verdict:
The New Balance 520 V8 is perfect for women who prioritize comfort and practicality. Whether you’re walking city blocks, working long shifts, or just want a clean minimalist sneaker for daily wear, this one delivers.
5. New Balance Women’s Fresh Foam X 1080 V12 — Premium Plush for Cold-Weather Runs
Finally, we reach the luxury option: New Balance’s Fresh Foam X 1080 V12. It’s the shoe that reviewers can’t stop praising — and for good reason. The Fresh Foam technology feels like a hug for your feet.
Best for: Runners or walkers wanting top-tier cushioning, especially in colder months.
What reviewers love:
Almost every review mentions the plush comfort and versatile design. One buyer who doesn’t even run said these shoes made standing and walking “feel like walking on clouds.” Another reviewer, with a knee injury, said they were “worth every penny” and perfect for long Disney or Universal days.
The wide toe box and breathable knit upper allow for great circulation even in thicker socks — ideal for cool fall and winter runs. Users also appreciated the sleek look, saying the shoe works well for errands or travel days.
The pros at a glance:
- Luxurious cushioning for impact absorption
- True-to-size fit with wide options
- Stylish and durable
- Supportive enough for both running and walking
Minor drawbacks:
They’re pricey — hovering near the $160–$180 mark — and a few reviewers noted they run slightly large. However, nearly all agreed that the comfort and longevity justify the investment.
Verdict:
For women who want to treat their feet to something truly special this winter, the Fresh Foam X 1080 V12 is the standout premium choice. It’s not just a running shoe — it’s an all-day comfort experience.
Final Thoughts: Choosing the Right Shoe for You
If you’re shopping for the perfect women’s running shoe this fall and winter, start with your foot type and activity level:
- Brooks Adrenaline GTS 24 → best for stability and injury prevention.
- ASICS Gel-Venture 10 → best all-terrain option.
- Under Armour Charged Assert 10 → best budget-friendly choice.
- New Balance 520 V8 → best lightweight everyday comfort.
- New Balance Fresh Foam X 1080 V12 → best premium cushioning for long wear.
No shoe is universally perfect — and the most honest reviews prove that. What matters most is how your shoes feel after a few weeks of real-world use: after the morning jogs, work shifts, errands, or long walks that define your everyday life.
As one reviewer put it best:
“Be patient — the right shoes will form to your feet, not the other way around.”
And in 2025, these five women’s running shoes are the ones doing exactly that.