What Are The Best Walking Shoes?
Which are the best walking shoes? Although there are a few brands that made my “top” list, New Balance walking shoes are among the best (see my list for which styles to buy!).
After reading dozens of shoe buying guides, ratings by the experts and reviews of those who have worn the shoes, I’ve compiled my top-rated list of
best women's walking shoes
and the
best men's walking shoes.
I've also provided some helpful advice if you're looking for
wide walking shoes
or
narrow walking shoes,
The most important thing is to find a shoe that best fits your feet, no matter what brand it is. Our feet are unique and there isn’t one shoe that is best for everyone.
Don’t miss these valuable tips on how to find the
most comfortable walking shoe.
And don't forget a good pair of
walking socks
to prevent painful skin injuries to your feet.
If you already have a pair of running or cross-training shoes that you like, that is okay as long as they don’t bother your feet during a walk.
However, if you want to get the most from your walks, it is a good idea to get a walking shoe, which will cut down on your chances of injury.
Walking shoes are different from other athletic shoes in regards to their flexibility and the areas of your foot that they cushion.
Features Of The Best Walking Shoes
Here are the unique features, according to Mark Fenton, author of Pedometer Walking and Therese Iknoian, author of Fitness Walking:
Flexibility. Walkers need a flexible forefoot that bends at the ball of the foot.
Heel Cushion. A walker’s heel strikes the ground the hardest (runner’s strike the middle of the foot hardest), which requires good cushioning and support of the natural heel-to-toe roll.
Toe Box. A roomy toe box is essential so the toes can spread during the pushoff (using your toes to push off to the next step).
Upper Materials. Breathable materials such as mesh or leather are best as they will allow air to flow to your feet.
How Long Will My Shoes Last?
Buy a new pair after walking 300 – 500 miles. That is the point when the cushioning will begin to break down and the upper portion of the shoe could be pulling away from the midsole. It will take 6 months to walk that many miles, possibly a year if you don’t walk that much.
The American Academy of Podiatric Sports Medicine has a great two-minute video that will give you some extra tips on what to look for in a good walking shoe. You can view the video near the bottom of this page on their
website.
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