This.

I certainly know a fair number of women (admittedly, the grandparent commenter would probably not call them "young") who regularly shop as a recreation and social activity. Mostly with other women from their family and circle of friends. They often shop for half a day or more, without buying anything. Usually not at "The Mall" - instead they're walking a denser shopping district, or driving around to strip malls, estate sales, antique shows, etc. Probably not grocery shopping together, but they may do the Farmer's Market.

I figure that it's the women's version of a few older guys going out and playing golf for hours. Humans spent quite a time as hunger-gatherers, and still enjoy exercising their old software.