When it comes to walking, the most important thing is choosing the right pair of shoes. You want to find a shoe that is specifically designed for walking, and not a pair designed for running. Sure, it means spending a bit of money, but the right pair of shoes can make all the difference in the world, and they can prevent foot pain and injury.
Types Of Shoes
Walking shoes tend to fall in one of three categories, including performance trainers according to Orthotic Shop. Performance trainers don’t weigh a lot. They are ideal for those who don’t really need motion control.
Cushion shoes are good for long-distance walks. Stability shoes are more for those with stability issues. Also, stability shoes provide people with a bit of motion control.
Walking Shoes Are Different
It doesn’t matter how good a shoe looks, if it doesn’t fit properly, then don’t buy it. To make sure you choose a good pair, find a good athletic shoe shop in your area, or you can ask a personal trainer about what they recommend. Also, there are shops that can analyze your feet, so try to find one that offers this. If a shoe shop offers that, then they will surely be able to help you choose the best pair of walking shoes. Remember, there are key differences to foot structure between men and women. ShoeAdviser’s Lilly Harvey says that “around 70% of men who buy walking shoes for men aren’t happy with their purchase after trying them out for themselves”. This is because we often ignore the comfort and go along with the style. Getting a soft, supportive pair is essential to enjoy your daily duties. That’s why you should always look at shoes for walking on concrete when choosing. Since you will undoubtedly be spending most of your time on the road!
Walking shoes are different from running shoes because each type addresses the movements of a person. Walkers strike heel first, while runners strike mid-sole first. Walkers don’t need a heel that softens impact, nor do they need a flared heel to help with stability. Runners need those things.
Flexion is another important issue. As a general rule of thumb, shoes designed for walking should have a flexible forefoot. Otherwise, your foot will feel uncomfortable as you roll it with each step. In the long run, you could develop shin splints.
Choosing The Right Walking Shoes
Don’t just choose the first pair of walking shoes you come across. There are various things to look for, such as the heel. The heel should have no flare. If there’s a flare, then don’t buy that shoe.
Next, grab the pair of shoes and twist them. It should easily twist and bend at the ball. If it bends in the middle of the arch, this isn’t a good sign.
Finally, poke at the toe, after placing the shoe on the floor. A good shoe will rock a little bit and its toe will be slightly off the ground. As for price, you can expect to pay anywhere between $60 and $130 for a pair of shoes. If prices are higher than that, then you’re really only paying for style and brand.
Motion Control Shoes
If you walk in a way that your foot tilts inward or outward, then consider buying a pair of motion control shoes. If you’re a little bit overweight or you have mobility issues, including a weak hip or knee, then you should definitely get a pair of motion control shoes. Sure, motion control shoes do weight a lot, but they will provide you with the support you need to help you when you’re walking.
If you’re not really sure, have someone at the shoe store analyze your gait. If things are really bad, you might need to get a special insole or a custom pair of shoes. This will give you the support you need.
Verywell: A Word From Them
When you’re looking around for a good walking shoe, don’t pay too much attention to the labels. If you find a flat shoe that has an excellent heel drop and if it’s flexible, then by all means get it, even if it’s considered a running show. There are plenty of walking shoes out there that have everything, except for the fact that they are not flexible or flat.
If you want to make a good choice, then always put function above fashion. Yes, you want your shoes to be stylish. However, you want to find a pair of shoes that make walking enjoyable.
